CONSIDER
• We all have a responsibility and unique part to play in God's kingdom
• Don't elevate yourself or other servants for work done in advancing God's kingdom <F60>
• Seek the Lord to determine how He wants to use you right now
• God provides the ability for each one of us to complete the job He assigns us
• How awesome when sinners choose the path of redemption and turn to Christ as a result of a believers working together as a functioning body of Christ
1 Corinthians 12:18-20 NIV
[18] But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. [19] If they were all one part, where would the body be? [20] As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
James 5:17-20 NIV
[17] Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. [18] Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. [19] My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, [20] remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
RELATED COMMENTS
Note: each ** comment in this APPLICATION doc comes from CHAPTER doc(s), where the comments are in numerical order according to verse(s) from the chapter
** Not every Christian can be a wall-builder, but every Christian can pray and have Nehemiah’s concern for the welfare of other Christians <R1795>
• Paul encourages Christians to view the church as a body, in which each believer is intimately linked with every other Christian
• If one part suffers, every part suffers with it
• Let’s follow Nehemiah’s lead and express our concern for others in need, starting with heartfelt prayer
Nehemiah 1:2-4 NIV
[2] Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. [3] They said to me, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire. ” [4] When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.
** There is a testing or price to pay for our salvation and working for the kingdom of God
• Our suffering for His kingdom’s sake is evidence, not to God, but to the world
• Throughout church history, the willingness of believers to suffer and even die painful deaths for Jesus’ sake has moved many to believe in Him <R1795>
• As has been seen through the centuries, ‘The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church’
2 Thessalonians 1:5 NIV
All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.
** Rumors are carried by haters, spread by fools and accepted by idiots <D502>
James 1:26 NIV
[26] Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.
James 3:5-8 NIV
[5] Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. [6] The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. [7] All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, [8] but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
** Paul addressed those who had differing views regarding non-salvation issues as 'brothers and sisters' so we too should count those who have differences as our brothers and sisters in Christ <H87>
Romans 11:25 NIV
[25] I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in,
** In light of the apostacy that will occur in the end times, Jude encourages believers in conflict with each other to have mercy on those who have been swept away by deceit <M1501>
• Turn on any mainstream media today, and it is no wonder the masses are deceived when they blindly following its propaganda
• Typically, many end up being misled who don't do a deep dive to find 'the story behind the story' but simply want a summary statement analysis of what's happening
• People perish for the lack of knowledge, which leads to ignorance, which leads to doubt, which leads to rejecting Christ, which leads to fire
• Jude calls us to have mercy on our brothers and sisters who are perishing in order to save them from deceit
Jude 1:22-23 NIV
[22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear---hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
** Concentrate on expressing the excellent and praiseworthy qualities Paul lists, so that we not only dwell on them but they dwell in us <R1795>
• True = meaning the truthful in thought as well as every aspect of life
• Noble = meaning that which wins respect; the honest, honorable, worthy
• Right = meaning that which fulfills all our obligation to God and to others
• Pure = meaning that which fits us for fellowship with and service to God, including but more than freedom from bodily sins
• Lovely = meaning that which is attractive and winsome
• Admirable = meaning that which is kind and likely to win others
Philippians 4:8-9 NIV
[8] Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable---if anything is excellent or praiseworthy---think about such things. [9] Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me---put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
** Do we treat others with purity and respect?
• Paul resorted to the image of the family to describe relationships in the church
• Timothy was a young leader, and Paul was instructing him how to relate to those for whom he was responsible
• The Christian leader does not seek a relationship ‘over’ others, but a relationship of intimacy among them
• This relationship can be observed when seeing how leaders treat others, as they would their own family <R1795>
1 Timothy 5:1-2 NIV
Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, [2] older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity.
** When Christians encounter disagreements, particularly regarding prophetic matters, our response should be marked by grace and humility <H9993>
Practical Steps to Combat Division:
1. Stay Grounded in Scripture
• We must prioritize Biblical truth over personal opinions or speculative interpretations
• Paul commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to see whether things were true (Acts 17:11)
2. Exercise Discernment
• Not every debate or disagreement requires engagement
• Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will also be like him (Prov 26:4-5)
3. Pray for Unity
• Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the Christian community and the Church toward unity and humility
• Remember to bring our concerns to God with thanksgiving (Phil 4:6-7)
4. Focus on the Gospel
• Let the message of salvation in Christ remain central to all discussions
5. Avoid Personal Attacks
• In debates, focus on ideas, not individuals
• Let our speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so we will know how we should respond to each person (Col 4:6)
6. Remember the Enemy’s Schemes
• The true battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness (Eph 6:12)
Galatians 5:14-15 NIV
[14] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [15] If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
** ‘Do not muzzle an ox’ refers to understanding when someone is doing the right thing and getting out of their way so they can continue <D40>
• Encourage those who are starting to understand what it means and why it is important to follow God
• They may be recognizing that what they've been doing is wrong and repentance needs to happen
• They may not understand the 'theological steps' needed towards their salvation, but ENCOURAGE them on the journey where they want to go and do not MUZZLE or argue the finer theological points they are missing <E58>
1 Timothy 5:18 NIV
[18] For Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.”
1 Corinthians 9:9 NIV
[9] For it is written in the Law of Moses: “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.” Is it about oxen that God is concerned?
** Without looking down or criticizing anyone, Paul showed that each member of the local body of Christ should be valued, welcome and loved <R1795>
Romans 14:1 NIV
[1] Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.
** The enemy will entice everyone to abandon God's law and the design of His creation <F697>
• For instance, at its core, racism is a fundamental denial of the ontological equality that all humans share because we are all made in the image of God
• As Christians, we should be an example of upholding God's design by unequivocally denouncing all forms of racism
Genesis 1:26 NIV
[26] Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
** Everyone’s life is filled with opportunities to serve the Lord; what they do with those opportunities is the difference between a successful life and a wasted life, as far as the Lord is concerned <L120>
• Has it ever occurred to you that you might have a saved soul but a wasted life?
• In other words, you have the assurance of heaven but you’re wasting your life here on earth because you’re not serving Christ to the fullest
• Do we let the opportunities slip by, or do we seize the day and serve the Lord to the fullest?
Matthew 25:20-21 NIV
[20] The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. 'Master,' he said, 'you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.' [21] “His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'
Colossians 3:17,23-24 NIV
[17] And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. [23] Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, [24] since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
** God describes Himself as zealous -- fiercely protective and deeply invested in His covenant people <W212>
• God's zeal preserves a remnant (Isa 37:32)
• His burning passion installs Messiah on David’s throne (Isa 9:7)
• That same zeal was seen in Jesus, who drove money changers out of the Temple, as He was consumed with love for His Father’s house (John 2:17)
• When the Messiah captured Paul's heart, a fire was directed into preaching, planting churches, and suffering for the Good News (Rom 15:20)
Isaiah 37:32 NIV
[32] For out of Jerusalem will come a remnant, and out of Mount Zion a band of survivors. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:7 NIV
[7] Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
John 2:14-15,17 NIV
[14] In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. [15] So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. [17] His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”
Romans 15:20 NIV
[20] It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation.
• And it's that same zeal we're commanded to carry with us for God and His purposes
• Zeal is the engine of revival but only when it’s rooted in truth
• Unchecked, it can become destructive
• Mature zeal reflects the heart of God -- not just the heat of the moment
• Misplaced, it can burn bridges instead of building them, but sanctified, it can change the world
Romans 12:11 NIV
[11] Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
** How well do you align with James’ model to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry? <L120>
• Most of us get it completely backward: we're slow to listen, quick to speak, and quick to get angry
• We listen just long enough to convince ourselves that we have pearls of wisdom to contribute
• We’re quick to interrupt by offering advice or steering the conversation where we want it to go
• And if our pearls of wisdom or attempts to 'solve the problem' aren’t appreciated, we get angry and blame the other person
James 1:19 NIV
[19] My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
** God designed us with creative minds and the ability to work in this world for His glory
• Many Christians go on auto-pilot when they arrive in the workforce and simply follow the world's standards and expectations
• All too often self-interest gets in the way from following God's plan for them, prioritizing money, power and prestige as most everyone else
• But Christians are to 'follow the beat of a different Drummer' and get their tasks and motivation from God
• God asks His followers to live by a different definition of success than what the world offers
• In fact, Christ says His followers are to be willing to GIVE UP their life and ideas of personal gain if they want to be a devoted follower
Colossians 2:8 NIV
[8] See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
Matthew 16:25 NIV [Jesus said]
[25] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.
• As Christians, we should want to determine the WHAT, WHY and HOW God wants us to work in this world
• Living for the Lord means starting off studying His Word and prayerfully making Him part of every activity every day
• It's tempting to fall into the world's trap of working harder and longer to acquire the next toy so it's important that, while working on what God desires, His followers guard against accepting the world's standards and expectations
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 NIV
[16] May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, [17] encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
James 4:13-15 NIV
[13] Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” [14] Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. [15] Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.”
Proverbs 16:3 NIV
[3] Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
** May every Christian be prayerfully open to facilitate positive change with their brother or sister in Christ; these efforts must be done in love and for the glory of God
Proverbs 27:17 NIV
[17] As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Ephesians 4:2 NIV
[2] Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
** Paul reminded the Gentiles that In Christ Jesus they were once ‘far away’ but are now part of a ‘living temple’
• The Gentiles were isolated from the promises and covenants given to Israel
• Christ, however, changed their situation as well as changing their hearts
• Gentiles are consoled, knowing Christ now establishes a ‘living temple’ where His followers have an intimate relationship with Him and each other <R1795>
Ephesians 2:11-13 NIV
[11] Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)--- [12] remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. [13] But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
Ephesians 2:19-22 NIV
[19] Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household, [20] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. [21] In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. [22] And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
** Christians are directed to defend their faith, explaining what and why they believe at a moment's notice
• Believers should know why they place their confidence in a Biblically based worldview
• And, from personal experience, be ready to explain how living a life in Christ is preferred to living a life focused on the world
• Testimony to the Christian faith may help non-believers understand why their hope resides in Christ
Three dimensional thinking is required to defend and persuade:
1. Know why you believe what you believe
2. Know why others believe what they believe
3. Know what others believe about what you believe <D40>
1 Peter 3:15 NIV
[15] But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect
Philippians 2:12b NIV
[12] continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,
Matthew 5:16 NIV
[16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
** Followers of Christ having a difficult time loving their enemy and their terrible sin should remember the Lord who loved and sacrificed His life for them despite their terrible sin <D40>
Matthew 5:43-44 NIV
[43] “You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' [44] But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
• God loves every person, for we were all made in His image
• Paul reminded the Corinthian believers they were ALL sin-filled vessels before being justified by the saving power of Christ
• They were given the 'hope of regeneration' in their sin as their enemies should be given the same hope
1 Corinthians 6:9-11 NIV
[9] Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men [10] nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. [11] And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
• We are commanded to love God and give Him preeminence in our life, first and foremost, because He is worthy
• Loving our neighbor does not mean pleasing and affirming them in everything they do
• God gives us perspective and strength; He helps us understand His truth then gives us strength to love others in truth and show them a better way
Matthew 22:37-40 NIV
[37] Jesus replied: “ 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' [40] All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Colossians 3:12-14 NIV
[12] Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. [13] Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. [14] And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
• Ultimately, we are to emulate John the Baptist who understood he needed 'to decrease' so Christ 'could increase'
John 3:30 KJV
[30] He must increase, but I must decrease.
** Four men with leprosy reasoned that they would die from the famine so why not surrender to the Arameans; when they arrived at the Aramean camp no one was there!
• These four lepers who discovered that the Syrians had fled their camp, leaving all their supplies, reminds us of God’s provision in unexpected ways
• The same can hold true when sharing our faith with others
• As we take our first hesitant steps toward sharing our faith, God will already be at work in the hearts of those we approach
• The God who did the impossible and fed a starving city still does the impossible, turning hard hearts to Himself in our day <R1795>
2 Kings 7:3-4 NIV
[3] Now there were four men with leprosy at the entrance of the city gate. They said to each other, “Why stay here until we die? [4] If we say, 'We'll go into the city'---the famine is there, and we will die. And if we stay here, we will die. So let's go over to the camp of the Arameans and surrender. If they spare us, we live; if they kill us, then we die.”
2 Kings 7:8-10 NIV
[8] The men who had leprosy reached the edge of the camp, entered one of the tents and ate and drank. Then they took silver, gold and clothes, and went off and hid them. They returned and entered another tent and took some things from it and hid them also. [9] Then they said to each other, “What we're doing is not right. This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves. If we wait until daylight, punishment will overtake us. Let's go at once and report this to the royal palace.” [10] So they went and called out to the city gatekeepers and told them, “We went into the Aramean camp and no one was there---not a sound of anyone---only tethered horses and donkeys, and the tents left just as they were.”
** James encourages us to maintain our eager anticipation for the Lord's return <L120>
• Living in this world as believers can be difficult and we get tired and frustrated as we see our culture trending in ways that defy God’s will
• So we look to the Lord’s return with anticipation, because it means our work here will be done and our eternal reward will begin
• But remember that God’s timetable is perfect
• The longer Christ’s return is delayed, the more opportunities unbelievers will have to hear His Good News and give their lives to Him
James 5:7-8 NIV
[7] Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. [8] You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near.
** The soon return of Jesus also carries with it a message for believers: lukewarm and carnal Christians are called to commit their lives to holiness <R173>
Romans 13:12-14 NIV
[12] The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. [13] Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. [14] Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
Colossians 4:2 NIV
[2] Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Titus 3:8-11,14 NIV
[8] This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. [9] But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. [10] Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. [11] You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned. [14] Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.
** Every human being is a sinner, whether male or female, and all are capable of committing a litany of common sins on a continual basis.
The following is a sample from a list of 667 sins recorded in the Bible:
• Lust (2 Tim 2:22)
• Greed (Heb 13:15)
• Cheating (Prov 12:22)
• Envy (Prov 14:30)
• Pride (Jer 9:23-24)
• Unforgiving (Matt 6:12)
• Disobedient (1 Tim 1:9-10)
• and the list goes on... <W2206>
The response to someone's sin that affects another should not be reacting with another sin -- such as a sin response by a female regarding a grievance committed by a male. This retaliatory type of responding only encourages and escalates the amount of sin involved.
• How about everyone pray, forgive and encourage one another to greater heights in the roles God designed for us?
• But that would require we have a relationship with GOD, repent of OUR sin, live by HIS standard, depending on His strength/power to forgive and live as He desires
• Until that happens, we're left to mud-slinging and calling each other 'toxic', which thrills the enemy
Romans 3:23 NIV
[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
Colossians 3:12-17 NIV
[12] Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. [13] Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. [14] And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. [15] Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. [16] Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. [17] And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
** Will you make yourself available to God? Will you say, "Lord, I will labor in Your field"? No matter how much money you make, what career you follow, or whether you’re married or single, will you commit to never stop being available to God as a laborer in His field?
Who knows whether God has not put you where you are, at this moment, for such a time as this? This world is getting darker. The only hope for our world is a spiritual awakening. We have to get the gospel out. We have to redouble our efforts as never before because time is short. The devil knows this and, certainly, he is redoubling his efforts. He’s trying to drag as many people down as he possibly can. We need to go out and make a difference while we can! <L120> (Jul 2024)
Luke 10:2 NIV
[2] He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.
Mark 16:15-16 NIV
[15] He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. [16] Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
** As Christians, our support for Israel and the Jewish people should be unwavering <G7995>
• We owe the Jewish people a debt of gratitude because it is through them that we have our Bible
• It is through them that we have our Messiah, Jesus
• Jesus was Jewish, and because of Him, we have been grafted into Israel’s spiritual blessings of the New Covenant
Romans 15:26-27 NIV
[26] For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord's people in Jerusalem. [27] They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews' spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings.
** Jesus' command to 'make disciples' does not simply mean sending money to some missionary around the world but responsibly raising the children in our homes and neighborhoods in the knowledge of God; equipping and readying children to become saved and spread the gospel <N152>
• The majority of parents hand their kids over to government schools for 7 hours a day and think the 1-2 hour youth activity with combat this programming that happens during the week <G77>
• Some leaders, including John Dewey, admit to a secularist humanist (there is no God) agenda for the educational system
• Likewise, a UN mandated worldwide program has been underway since the 1960s to proudly nullify Christian values of right and wrong; they brag about nullifying in 15 minutes what parents have taught over 15 years
• There is no neutral ground in spiritual warfare; removing kids from government schools is the first step to instilling a Biblical worldview <N152>
• How crucial it is that Christian parents talk openly with their children about ALL issues from a Biblical point of view so the children don't end up thinking their parents are 'uninformed' when confronted by contrary values later on
Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
[19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Deuteronomy 11:18-21 NIV
[18] Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. [19] Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. [20] Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, [21] so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.
** Paul stated his desire to visit Rome to impart spiritual gifts to believers to mutually encourage each other in the faith
• Scripture teaches us the purpose of spiritual gifts is to promote 'the common good' of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:7), to build up the church (1 Cor 14:12), and to prepare us each for works of service (Eph 4:12–13)
• Each person upon accepting the gift of salvation from Jesus Christ receives the Holy Spirit, who then gives to each believer certain gifts from God to do His work (1 Cor 12:4–6)
• In no way are the spiritual gifts to be used to draw attention to oneself or put on a showy display <G72>
Romans 1:11-12 NIV
[11] I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong--- [12] that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith.
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 NIV
[4] There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. [5] There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. [6] There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. [7] Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
1 Corinthians 14:12 NIV
[12] So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.
Ephesians 4:12-13 NIV
[12] to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up [13] until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Romans 12:6-8 NIV
[6] We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; [7] if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; [8] if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
** Know that everything we have is from the Lord; we are trustees and should be generous to others with what He provides us
• Just as Paul reminded slaves that their position is an opportunity to serve, so are those who are rich have opportunity to serve others
• Rich are not to count on their riches, nor to guard their wealth jealously
• Instead, the rich are to put their hope in God and be rich in good deeds
• A generous rich man is a bright jewel in God’s crown
• In being generous, the rich will find a meaning in life that they would otherwise never know <R1795>
1 Timothy 6:17-19 NIV
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. [18] Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. [19] In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
Philippians 3:3 NIV
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh---
Philippians 3:8-9 NIV
What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ [9] and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ---the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.
** Aaron and Hur, who were with Moses, held up his hands until the sun went down. As a result, Israel won on the field of battle. This illustrates how God’s Word (represented by Joshua’s sword) and prayer (symbolized by Moses’ staff) worked together. Someone had to go into battle with the sword, and someone had to pray. <L120>
Exodus 17:10-13 NIV
[10] So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. [11] As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. [12] When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up---one on one side, one on the other---so that his hands remained steady till sunset. [13] So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.
** As Christians, we are destined to endure trials and persecution; encourage one another through these times
1 Thessalonians 3:2-5 NIV
We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, [3] so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. For you know quite well that we are destined for them. [4] In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know. [5] For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter had tempted you and that our labors might have been in vain.
1 Thessalonians 3:10 NIV
Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.
** Scripture teaches us how to endure and emulate Christ so we may encourage one another toward hope in all circumstances
• It’s never enough to just leave others alone to do they think is best
• Often we don’t want others to bother us
• Letting Christ be Lord in another’s life entails that we bear with the failings of the weak for Jesus’ sake and for the sake of our fellow believer
• Our aim should be to build others up
• Live and serve as Jesus lived and died to serve us <R1795>
Romans 15:4 NIV
[4] For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Romans 15:5-6 NIV
[5] May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, [6] so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
** Relationships often deepen when friends share with each other their love for God and the impact of His Word on their lives
1 Samuel 20:42 NIV
[42] Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord, saying, 'The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever. ' ” Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town.
Psalm 119:63,79,165 NIV
[63] I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts. [79] May those who fear you turn to me, those who understand your statutes. [165] Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
** Jesus reminded us that, as His followers, our motive should not be to strive for a high profile but to humbly serve God and others
Matthew 23:8-12 NIV
“But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. [9] And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. [10] Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah. [11] The greatest among you will be your servant. [12] For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
** Nehemiah asked the king to go to Judah when the king asked what was wrong and what he could do
• Nehemiah was a cupbearer for the king and deemed to be an important person in Persia
• How fascinating that Nehemiah was willing to exchange the honor of this post for the relatively insignificant title of governor of Judah
• Nehemiah understood how significant it is to serve God than any mere man <R1795>
Nehemiah 2:2-5 NIV
[2] so the king asked me, “Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.”I was very much afraid, [3] but I said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire? ” [4] The king said to me, “What is it you want?” Then I prayed to the God of heaven, [5] and I answered the king, “If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.”
** Those who strive to be first here on earth will be last in heaven and conversely those who are willing to be last here will be honored by being first in heaven; another reminder this world is not the end of the story
• Those who appear to be first in the spiritual lineup, based on their strict religion, their benevolence or their active involvement in church affairs, won’t be first when Judgment Day arrives
• Those at the head of the line on Judgment Day to receive rewards, will be simple folk who have heard Christ’s message and have taken it to heart
• Individuals who have taken to heart and abide by Jesus’ commands (as outlined in Matt 18) to seek out and the lost, seek harmony within the body of Christ and be ready to forgive others will be rewarded <R1795>
Matthew 19:30 NIV
But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.
Matthew 20:16 NIV
[16] “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
** Followers of Christ are commanded to live a life worthy (in balance or perfect harmony) with their position in Christ <M130>
• Christians are given the amazing privilege of being in union with Christ
• All the honors, blessings, promises and power that comes with our unity in Christ (see Eph 1-3) should be matched with how we live our lives
• The process of sanctification, based on a solid understanding of doctrine, was on the heart of the Apostle Paul
• The Christian life should be a true reflection of our condition and union with Jesus Christ, the result of sanctification
• As a "prisoner for the Lord" who is not concerned about this temporal life, the motivation of sacrificial sanctification should be to bring thanks and honor to God
• Walk in a worthy godly way, whatever the cost
Ephesians 4:1 NIV
[1] As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.
Romans 12:1 NIV
[1] Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God---this is your true and proper worship.
Colossians 1:28-29 NIV
[28] He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. [29] To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.
** Anytime we promise to do or not do something, we are making a vow; it is important to follow through with it <W212>
• For example, if parents don’t follow through on what they say they will do, children can get the idea that they can lie
• When we don’t follow through on what we promise, it’s a reflection on our character
• The Lord will always keep His word, and so He wants us to keep ours as well
Numbers 30:2 NIV
[2] When a man makes a vow to the Lord or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said.
Ephesians 4:29 NIV
[29] Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
** Jesus told Peter not to be concerned with others -- stop comparing with others but, rather, focus on Christ and complete the tasks He has for you to do <S190>
John 21:20-22 NIV
[20] Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) [21] When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” [22] Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”
** Even though others may not welcome us talking about God initially, there are times we are called to step up to testify about Him regardless of the response
• Most people don't think or talk about God outside of 'designated religious zones' like a church, so comments you offer are probably interrupting their life
• It's ok to challenge people from time to time and get them to think outside the box
• At the same time, it's not our job to convince them to care about what we say or ultimately accept the gospel message outlined in God's Word if that is what was shared
• The Lord will work in others, such as opening their eyes to His truth, in His own time and way
Mark 16:15 NIV
[15] He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
Exodus 4:8 NIV
[8] Then the Lord said, “If they do not believe you or pay attention to the first sign, they may believe the second.
2 Timothy 4:3-5 NIV
[3] For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. [4] They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. [5] But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
Romans 10:14 NIV
[14] How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
** When believers in Christ get to heaven we will wish we did more for the kingdom of God, not less; let's use the time God gives us in this life for the glory of God as best we can <H95>
Hebrews 12:1 NIV
[1] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
** We are saved by grace and not by works, but we show our faith by our works <G73>
James 2:17 NIV
[17] In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
** Revival is needed to clean up the mess this world is in, but it comes at a personal cost <E58> <D40>
• Revival is not 'adding Jesus' to our existing lifestyle and thinking we can go on 'as usual'
• Revival is not 'God coming to save the day' so everyone can continue living in their preferred comfortable sinful state
• Rather, revival is God disrupting our sinful ways which may involve bringing us to the point of suffering
2 Corinthians 1:5 NIV
[5] For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.
• Jesus can be a disruptive force in our lives when we accept Him and walk with Him daily
• The revived person will not only clean up their act but shift their focus from themself to God and others
• We will be able to see this force in action when Jesus returns in the last days to fill the valleys and level the mountains
Philippians 2:1-3 NIV
[1] Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
Amos 3:3 NIV
[3] Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?
** Many followers of Christ think the call to ministry is just for full-time or Sunday church leadership. The Scriptures instruct us that all believers were called and should be equipped for the work of the ministry in every walk of life, to fill the earth with the reign of God <M1499>
Ephesians 4:10-12 NIV
[10] He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) [11] So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, [12] to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
** Contrary to popular opinion in Christian circles, God wants us involved in current political affairs to live out His ways and stand against evil when needed <J1093>
God provides examples of people confronting with authority in Scripture:
• Elijah warning the king of the upcoming drought
• Moses confronting Pharaoh threatening plagues so he would release the Israelites out of Egypt's grip
• Nehemiah approaching King Artaxerxes so he could return to rebuild Jerusalem
• We don’t advocate a political party, but we advocate a Biblical worldview
1 Kings 17:1 NIV
[1] Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word.”
Exodus 3:11-12 NIV
[11] But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” [12] And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain. ”
Nehemiah 2:4-5 NIV
[4] The king said to me, “What is it you want?” Then I prayed to the God of heaven, [5] and I answered the king, “If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.”
** Moses confronting the evil Pharaoh and releasing the 10 plagues foreshadows what the end times will hold for the Antichrist <H86>
• Instead of 10 plagues, there will be 28 plagues at that time
• Pharaoh thought he was god as the Antichrist will believe he is god
Exodus 5:1-2ff NIV
[1] Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the wilderness.' ” [2] Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.”
Terminology:
• Egypt=world
• According to Paul, leaving=salvation
• Walking through desert=spiritual immaturity
• Going through Red Sea=baptism
• Entering promised land=maturity
• Moses and Aaron approaching Pharaoh identified the spiritual battle — God vs evil — and provided a good example of how believers are to confront others
• We are commanded to confront
Ezekiel 3:18-19 NIV
[18] When I say to a wicked person, 'You will surely die, ' and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways in order to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. [19] But if you do warn the wicked person and they do not turn from their wickedness or from their evil ways, they will die for their sin; but you will have saved yourself.
Confronting others involves:
• Stating the truth (no debate) with grace and mercy
• Working within “the system”
• Being objective (non emotional) toward who is being confronted
• Showing how the other person's behavior is affecting others
• Making a demand for change (no threat) and finding what discomfort level gets their attention, as a parent disciplines their children
• Conveying how the change will benefit THEM
Reasons we don’t confront:
• We don’t want to lose the relationship
• Fear of being the object of retaliation
• Thinking fear is hurtful instead of helping
• Don’t want to be perceived as being bad
• The classic response is for those confronted to try to divide and conquer, as Pharaoh was successful in getting the Israelites to blame Moses instead of Pharaoh
• When possible, they will try to separate the people from their leader
• In the end, people tend to surround themselves with those who do not challenge but enable their behavior
Exodus 5:20-21 NIV
[20] When they left Pharaoh, they found Moses and Aaron waiting to meet them, [21] and they said, “May the Lord look on you and judge you! You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.”
** Christians are responsible to critique and impact our public schools and homes with Biblical values; Scripture puts the onus of education in the hands of parents <M1499>
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 NIV
[6] These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. [7] Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. [8] Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. [9] Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates
** We can’t take the wealth and finances we've accumulated with us, but we can send it on ahead. How? By investing in the work of the kingdom of God. In doing so, we’re storing treasures in Heaven.
We always will leave it behind. Either it leaves us while we’re living, or we leave it when we die. There are no exceptions. Whatever is valuable on earth will have no value in Heaven.
Is Jesus condemning those who are financially prosperous? No. Is He saying that it’s wrong to make and save money? Absolutely not. Rather, He’s saying that it’s wrong to put all our hope in temporary, earthly treasures and have nothing waiting for us in eternity. <L120>
1 Chronicles 16:28-29 NIV
[28] Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. [29] Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.
Matthew 6:19-21 NIV
[19] “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. [20] But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. [21] For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
** While mothers are typically identified as CEO of the home making sure it functions as needed, fathers should be identified as pastor of their home with a primary task of training and instructing their children in the Lord; if the family is the church, then the pastor is the Dad <J1092> <E55>
Ephesians 6:4 NIV
[4] Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
** Followers of Christ are commanded to look after those in need around them, but the moral basis for doing this should be to demonstrate Christ and the difference He makes in people's lives
• Many Christian mission organizations over the years focused on meeting physical needs of those in need with intent to promote the gospel
• Both physical and spiritual needs must be met but there is a current trend in organizations who claim to be Christian to meet the physical need without the gospel message that should be motivating them
• Social justice without Christ is just another effort to do good without eternal value
• Organizations such as the UN and WEF do not have a Christian moral grounding (obviously) so what motivates their benevolent goals? <B299>
Isaiah 1:17 NIV
[17] Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.
Proverbs 31:9 NIV
[9] Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Matthew 7:12 NIV
[12] So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
** Views of believers are diversely opinionated regarding the participation of pagan holidays
• Going trick-or-treating at Halloween no more makes you a Satanist than going to church makes you a Christian
• Christians don't replace their faith in Christ with Halloween, just like they don't worship their tree at Christmas
• A believer who is convicted about celebrating Halloween should not celebrate it -- but then don't clobber those who are less sensitive to this holiday
• These are non-salvation issues so do not disassociate yourself from other believers over these things; following such practices may bring on consequences but will not affect salvation
• Let's focus on what really matters in the Kingdom of God <G70>
Colossians 2:16-17 NIV
[16] Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. [17] These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
• At the same time we are to be careful with whom we associate and realize the danger of falling prey to evil
• Evil is often portrayed as 'innocent fun' in movies and games but can entice participants to engage at the personal level without knowing the lurking dangers or who they may be hurt in the process
• Is participation in these seemingly innocent holidays worth the risk? <C36>
1 Corinthians 8:8-9 NIV
[8] But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do. [9] Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.
Deuteronomy 12:29-31 NIV
[29] The Lord your God will cut off before you the nations you are about to invade and dispossess. But when you have driven them out and settled in their land, [30] and after they have been destroyed before you, be careful not to be ensnared by inquiring about their gods, saying, “How do these nations serve their gods? We will do the same.” [31] You must not worship the Lord your God in their way, because in worshiping their gods, they do all kinds of detestable things the Lord hates. They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire as sacrifices to their gods.
** Hurt people hurt people; followers of Christ are to demonstrate healing and 'completeness in Christ' by the way they act toward others <B305>
Ephesians 4:2 NIV
[2] Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
** Followers of Christ are not promised we will see results from our efforts to share the Gospel, so we continue to hope and trust that the Holy Spirit will work in those who hear <G76>
Mark 16:15 NIV
[15] He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
1 Thessalonians 1:5a NIV
[5] because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction.
** Many believe the church should be an 'anything goes safe zone' for all who attend to show the love of Jesus to others; the church's primary purpose, however, is the gathering and discipling of believers
• God's Word often challenges believers to live their life separate from the world
• Challenging church attenders to mature in their faith often produces an environment considered 'unsafe' by worldly standards because it goes against the norm
• Church members should be able to support each other in God's Word regardless if it's viewed as difficult and unpopular
• A person's feelings should not be of primary concern that overrides the operation or purpose of the church
• As a result, the church can be a challenging and uncomfortable environment when supporting congregants against worldly standards
Romans 12:2 NIV
[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.
1 Corinthians 5:1-2,4-5 NIV
[1] It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that even pagans do not tolerate: A man is sleeping with his father's wife. [2] And you are proud! Shouldn't you rather have gone into mourning and have put out of your fellowship the man who has been doing this? [4] So when you are assembled and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present, [5] hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord.
• Jesus was hated by the religious community (let alone the non-religious crowd) when He walked among His local community and called out their sin
• Likewise, followers of Christ should be willing to obey Biblical commands and encourage other believers in their community to do the same -- regardless of the cost to them personally
• Christians who boldly stand for biblical truth will increasingly come under threat, whether through censorship, intimidation, or outright violence <D41>
• As biblical truth continues to be equated with hate speech, more Christians will be targeted, both culturally and physically (Sep 2025)
• Why do Christians seek a 'safe zone' and feel they should be exempt from the slings and arrows of their surrounding culture when they are called to a life that is contrary to the world?
John 15:18-19 NIV
[18] “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. [19] If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.
** Remember: Paul was writing to Timothy who was in charge of the believers in Ephesus <F60>
• Paul was writing to the church, about the church
• We can expect the world to act as Paul outlined in the first verses of this chapter
• How sad to see the CHURCH acting as the world in these last days
• Paul provided 18 traits demonstrating ways God can transform an individual when they have a committed relationship with Him, aiming to practice what He desires:
2 Timothy 3:1-7 NIV
[1] But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. [2] People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, [3] without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, [4] treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God--- [5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. [6] They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, [7] always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.
** Our admonition of others can include boldness and frankness for their benefit (tough love); do not succumb to or prioritize political correctness at the cost of living out God’s truth
• Love isn’t a matter of how we look, or how much money or education we have
• Love is simply the overflow of a deep concern for the welfare of others
• If you have that love, nothing else matters; if you do not have that love, nothing else counts <R1795>
• Love involves supporting others, but remember that love is not simply accepting whatever a person thinks or how they act <M1501>
• On the contrary, Biblical love sometimes involves admonishing another because they are blatantly opposing God, as Jesus admonishes those He loves
• If you love someone, you need to protect them and tell them the truth
• Do not approve of everything they want to do because it is most likely harmful to them, others, and against God’s will <T2097>
• Any admonishment must be done out of a loving motive, similar to one who acts in 'tough love'
2 Corinthians 7:4a NIV
[4] I have spoken to you with great frankness
2 Corinthians 7:8-9 NIV
[8] Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it---I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while--- [9] yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us.
** A Christian's status is not dependent on 'how nice' they are to others, as the Social Justice movement advocates <E58>
• The ONLY measure that determines whether an individual is a Christian is whether they accepted Christ's offer of salvation; being nice and showing care for others is a byproduct of salvation, but does not replace it
• Evil counts on 'Christian passive neutrality' with followers trying to 'out-nice' each other
• Tough love with harsh words are required sometimes to challenge and correct another to follow God's ways
• Jesus demonstrated Christian love when using the words 'whitewashed tombs', 'snakes' and 'vipers' to wake up and challenge His adversaries to His truth
• Remember that Jesus had been lovingly working with these enemy non-believers for 3.5 years before He finally unleashed on them <G77>
Matthew 23:27 NIV
[27] “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.
Matthew 23:33 NIV
[33] “You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?
• How should we respond to brothers and sisters caught in sin?
• Paul advocated for church discipline in hopes of restoring individual(s) back to God
• God does not want His church to make those living in sin 'feel better about themselves'
• Church members are not to ignore sin and let anyone continue down path of destruction
• Our approach to believers with whom we have objection is not to ignore them or the issues, but to deal with them in a loving respectful way
1 Corinthians 5:1-2 NIV
[1] It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that even pagans do not tolerate: A man is sleeping with his father's wife. [2] And you are proud! Shouldn't you rather have gone into mourning and have put out of your fellowship the man who has been doing this?
Galatians 6:1 NIV
[1] Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.
2 Timothy 2:25 NIV
[25] Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth
** We have the choice whether to perpetuate an offense that has been levied against us or 'move on' from it out of love <B305>
Proverbs 17:9 NIV
[9] Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
** God uses problematic people because there are only problematic people <D40>
Jonah 1:1-3 NIV
[1] The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: [2] “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.” [3] But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish . He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.
** There are two kingdoms -- the kingdom of this world that belongs to Satan, and the kingdom of God that will destroy Satan's kingdom one day
• Satan blinds the masses to this reality of two kingdoms
• It is, therefore, the believer's duty to inform unbelievers of their blindness <W2200>
2 Corinthians 4:4 NIV
[4] The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
** There is a lot more to living the Christian life than expecting the Rapture and return of Christ -- absolutely watch for these events WHILE learning and living the life Christ desires of us in the interim
• Believers can put too much emphasis on Christ's return that it becomes a lop-sided (top-heavy) gospel
• Don't forget the other 2/3 of the gospel <F61>
Titus 2:11-13 NIV
[11] For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope---the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ
** Christ wants to return to find His servants to steward and be faithful doing what they were called to do; the Master calls those who are not faithful 'wicked' and should be ready for ensuing punishment <F60>
Matthew 24:45-46 NIV
[45] “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? [46] It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.
Matthew 24:48-51 NIV
[48] But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, 'My master is staying away a long time,' [49] and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. [50] The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. [51] He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
** Believers in Christ are to be salt and light in this world until Christ returns; do not let God’s return overshadow the work that must be done in His kingdom, losing saltiness and hiding the light in the interim
Matthew 5:13-16 NIV
[13] “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. [14] “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
** A spiritually meek person is not self-willed – not continually concerned with his own ways, ideas and wishes. They are willing to put themselves in second place and submit themselves to achieve what is good for others. Meekness is therefore the antithesis of self-will, self-interest, and self-assertiveness. This is a sign, not of weakness of character, but of strength. <R1791>
• Meekness is not 'caving in' when confronted by evil but is 'power under control' as you stand against it <D40>
• A soldier can control a stallion by the touch of his hand and the stallion waits for instructions from his owner
• In this way, it demonstrates ‘power under control’ and the power of the stallion is not wasted but rather can be used to run its race
• Likewise, God desires to direct His people to act when and where they are needed
• Regardless of the situation and while followers of God wait for His direction, they need to prepare to move – be emboldened, empowered, know the truth outlined in Scripture and not be quiet about sharing it with others <M1501>
Matthew 5:5 NIV
[5] Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Proverbs 3:5 NIV
[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
Matthew 10:16 NIV
[16] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
** Scripture speaks of different rewards in heaven. Since Jesus will be distributing rewards on the basis of what we have done, we can safely say that there will be a time of reward for believers and that the rewards will differ somewhat from person to person. <G72>
• Only those works that survive God’s refining fire have eternal value and will be worthy of reward
• Those valuable works are referred to as “gold, silver, and costly stones” (1 Cor 3:12) and are those things that are built upon the foundation of faith in Christ
• Those works that will not be rewarded are called “wood, hay, and stubble”; these are not evil deeds but shallow activities with no eternal value
• Rewards will be distributed at the “judgment seat of Christ,” a place where believers’ lives will be evaluated for the purpose of rewards
• “Judgment” of believers never refers to punishment for sin; Jesus Christ was punished for our sin when He died on the cross, and God said about us: “I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more” (Heb 8:12)
• What a glorious thought! The Christian need never fear punishment, but can look forward to crowns of reward that he can cast at the feet of the Savior
Revelation 22:12 NIV
[12] “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.
** False prophets accused Paul of being a counterfeit because he did not charge for his services <M130>
• Paul also resorted to manual labor to support himself which also offended the Corinthians
• Paul asked his accusers how refusing support is a sin…?
2 Corinthians 11:7 NIV
[7] Was it a sin for me to lower myself in order to elevate you by preaching the gospel of God to you free of charge?
Acts 18:1-3 NIV
[1] After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. [2] There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, [3] and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.
1 Corinthians 9:1,11-12 NIV
[1] Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not the result of my work in the Lord? [11] If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you? [12] If others have this right of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more? But we did not use this right. On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.
1 Corinthians 9:17-18 NIV
[17] If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. [18] What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make full use of my rights as a preacher of the gospel.
** God’s work ethic is clear: work or you don’t eat; God designed His creation to stay busy working and be productive members of society
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 NIV
[10] For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” [11] We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. [12] Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat.
Psalm 90:17 NIV
[17] May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us---yes, establish the work of our hands.
• God gave man, through the Bible, the formula for living life the way He intended, such as showing the way to care for widows, orphans, and the infirm — even the legitimately indigent
• Man long ago decided to dispense with God’s prescription in the Bible that dealt with matters of societal interaction and put his trust in the government instead
• As a result, a burdensome, enslaving, lying government continues to increasingly seek power by promising deliverance from social ills it can never produce <J100>
• God desires that His children contribute to meet his daily needs; some call it ‘kingdom business’
• The average Christian, however, has become so comfortable with their toys and free time that spending time supporting God’s kingdom is seldom on their radar
• Simply put, God’s work ethic flies in the face of our ever-growing welfare state and thirst for entertainment
• Often it is difficult for the remnant Christian to support himself in this worldly environment and needs the help of others
• God has given us brothers and sisters to walk in the Spirit with us – to restore us when we fall and hold us up when the load becomes too heavy
• How wonderful that with the aid of God’s Spirit we are now not only able to meet our daily life successfully, but even help others for whom the burden is too great <R1795>
Galatians 6:2 NIV
[2] Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
2 Corinthians 9:8,11 NIV
[8] And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. [11] You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
** Picture, if you can, an army intended to defend a powerful nation. That army just lolls around, denying that there is an enemy. They actually deny the enemy exists. This denial results in lowered defenses and lack of training. As the army sleeps, the enemy, who is very real, slowly infiltrates the troops. The enemy whispers many lies and convinces the soldiers that they don’t need to train and that the guidelines for the conduct of soldiers are old fashioned and the rules need to be slackened in order for a happier, user-friendly group of soldiers. The soldiers begin to argue with the commander’s orders, they make changes to the battle plan, and they generally side with the enemy.
Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce you to today’s ekklesia! We have our battle plan, as well as a description of the enemy’s plan, but we ignore it. Scripture is very clear as to what our King requires. Men are commissioned to lead the battle, but they are now allowing soft-hearted women to lead the troops. This is not Biblical. In order not to upset the women, men compromise the battle plan. This apostasy allows the New Age to flourish within our troops. Every person, male or female (and there are only two choices), must prepare for their own spot in the army of God. We cannot close our eyes and live in denial. The battle is real, and the enemy troops are becoming braver. In order not to be called haters or to be seeker friendly, God’s troops remain silent, and the enemy becomes more brazen. Brothers and sisters, we must prepare for battle. We must listen to Christ our King, and be brave as we wage war against the powers of darkness. <G73>
1 Samuel 17:22-24 NIV
[22] David left his things with the keeper of supplies, ran to the battle lines and asked his brothers how they were. [23] As he was talking with them, Goliath, the Philistine champion from Gath, stepped out from his lines and shouted his usual defiance, and David heard it. [24] Whenever the Israelites saw the man, they all fled from him in great fear.
** Many of us could honestly admit that we commonly place ourselves at the center of the stories we inhabit. When we grant God a place (all too often we forget him entirely), it’s to notice how he fits in around our own story. We may be mystified or angry or sad that he hasn’t intervened more frequently. Or we may be genuinely grateful for what he’s done. But at the deepest level, we’ve flipped the script: God inhabits our stories, rather than the other way around. <W2191>
Job 38:1-3 NIV
[1] Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm. He said: [2] “Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge? [3] Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me.
Genesis 3:4-6 NIV
[4] “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. [5] “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” [6] When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
** Jesus is talking to His eleven saved disciples regarding how to remain in Him; this is not a passage about salvation but about discipline and what happens when believers don’t remain in Christ
• When followers of Christ — who accepted His offer of salvation — sin they do not lose their salvation but are out of fellowship with Jesus
• Much like sinning against a spouse does not null and void the marriage; the couple is still married but out of fellowship with each other
• “Our good works are evidence OF our salvation, not FOR our salvation.” <G70>
• Being cut off from Christ can have devastating results with loss of rewards (not eternal punishment) if not corrected
• Followers of Christ can not bear lasting fruit if they are out of fellowship with Him <W213>
John 15:1-2 NIV
[1] “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. [2] He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.
John 15:6 NIV
[6] If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.
** Since we know the Bible to be true, then anyone NOT accepting this truth and focusing on God is living a facade <G70>
The Bible has been proven true:
• Archaeologically
• Historically
• Scientifically
• Eschatologically, etc
It seems as though most everyone is focused on building their own little kingdom here on earth, enjoying the ride without a care in the world rather than focusing on the advancement of God’s kingdom
• There is more concern about fitting into the world and enjoying the easy life than standing for the truths of God
• But no level of ignoring the insanity around us will change the truth; we can’t bury our heads and expect it to go away!
• Jesus is clear that we are to accept and seek HIS kingdom only and the rest will fall into place
Matthew 6:32-34 NIV
[32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [34] Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
** We should pray to be kept from evil rather than to be removed out of the world. We may be useful, very useful in this world, and useful in a way in which we cannot be in Heaven. <S183>
John 17:15 NIV
[15] My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.
** There are some Christians who caution others ‘not to invest too much’ or ‘not get too excited’ about anything spiritual
• Otherwise we can run the risk of being labeled a 'Jesus freak’ or putting on airs
• Not getting too excited and really knowing what is involved in the Christian walk ensures we are not held accountable for what we don’t know
• The trend in Christian circles is to avoid the tough topics - especially eschatology
• Choosing not to delve into ALL of Scripture or struggle with difficult topics leads to a selfishly-driven narcissistic existence
• On the contrary, God wants His followers to mature as we journey with Him and ‘up our game’ regardless of the cost
• Sure, it’s a much easier life to live when we don't know what time it is or care whether we obey God’s commands
• Remember, however, that ‘blissful ignorance’ does not exist — there is always a price to pay for choosing to ignore the info available to us!
Mark 8:34-36 NIV
[34] Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. [35] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. [36] What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?
• Jesus said if we are His disciples then we are to carry a cross that identifies us with Him, not only ride the coattails of Him carrying His cross to Calvary
• If our cross gets burdensome, then He invites us to lean on Him so He can carry the brunt of the load; Christ promises that His yoke is light
• Not only did Jesus carry the cross to cover MY punishment for sin, but He is also willing to help carry MY cross in this life
• The love of God is undeniable!
Luke 14:33 NIV
[33] In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Matthew 11:28-30 NIV [Jesus says]
[28] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV
[6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Ephesians 3:16-19 NIV
[16] I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, [17] so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, [18] may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, [19] and to know this love that surpasses knowledge---that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
** Jesus used a little child to illustrate how we should humbly approach each other; Jesus destroyed the hierarchical status people adhere to in society
Luke 9:46-48 NIV
[46] An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. [47] Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. [48] Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.”
** God chose a believer in Christ to help carry the cross
• The sons of the man carrying the cross were "eminent Christians" according to history
• Alexander and Rufus were members of the Roman church and later mentioned by Mark
• The image of Simon carrying Christ’s cross can serve as a visual reminder for us to share in our Master’s cross by carrying our own
Mark 15:21 NIV
[21] A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross.
** The Lord alone knows every detail of our thoughts, actions and motives; believers should spend our lives doing the tasks He assigned us and be ready for God to judge our performance accordingly
• Regardless if others recognized and supported our efforts or spun them in a negative light, God is fully aware of what we did, why and how we performed
• Don’t be concerned whether others recognize or value our efforts because they are more than likely concerned about their own to-do list
• Remember: we work for God
• Jesus is our example of what it means to prioritize the things of God and the Father is our ‘Supervisor’, willing to help us along the way and evaluating us when it’s all over
• Care about God’s opinion, not the opinions of others
John 12:46-48 NIV
[46] [Jesus said] I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. [47] “If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge that person. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. [48] There is a judge [our Father] for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day.”
** God commissions us to be wise to the ways of the world, maintaining our innocence at the same time for His glory
Matthew 10:16 NIV
[16] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
** Leaders not only need to be ‘able to teach’ but, as the phrase translates in Greek, they need to be ‘teachable’; none of us has arrived in our understanding of Scripture so we must continue to learn from our brothers and sisters in Christ <S188>
1 Timothy 3:2 NIV
[2] Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach
** Christians are to live by standards that include being above reproach within our own family and with others
1 Timothy 3:2-5 NIV
Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, [3] not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. [4] He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. [5] (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?)
1 Timothy 3:12 NIV
A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well.
1 Timothy 3:7-8 NIV
He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap. [8] In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.
** God is not going to hold us accountable for the decisions made by others regarding the gospel but will hold us accountable whether we shared the gospel; let’s make sure the gospel seed has been planted and our ‘seed bag’ is empty when the Lord returns <S187>
Matthew 28:19 NIV
[19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 3:6-7 NIV
[6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. [7] So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.
** Although we know who wins in the end, we must never stop fighting the spiritual battle at hand <H85>
• Unfortunately, Satan is ramping up his attack in these end times while Christians are typically asleep at the wheel
• It is not our place to surrender for we have a divinely ordained role to play in this world until we meet the Lord in the air
Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV
[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
** God ‘hard wires’ us to be passionate about participating in certain areas of the Christian walk — some teaching, evangelizing, discipleship, watchmen, compassionate toward others, etc — and He desires that we do our best for Him in the area He carved out for us
1 Corinthians 12:13-14,27-31a NIV
[13] For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body---whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free---and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. [14] Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. [27] Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. [28] And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. [29] Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? [30] Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues ? Do all interpret? [31] Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.
Ezekiel 33:2-6 NIV
[2] “Son of man, speak to your people and say to them: 'When I bring the sword against a land, and the people of the land choose one of their men and make him their watchman, [3] and he sees the sword coming against the land and blows the trumpet to warn the people, [4] then if anyone hears the trumpet but does not heed the warning and the sword comes and takes their life, their blood will be on their own head. [5] Since they heard the sound of the trumpet but did not heed the warning, their blood will be on their own head. If they had heeded the warning, they would have saved themselves. [6] But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes someone's life, that person's life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood.'
• Note that the watchmen in the Ezekiel passage were appointed (vs 2)
• In the spirit of the passage in Mark 13, all believers in Christ should warn others about the impending danger of end times even if it is not their primary mission
• Most importantly, Jesus calls everyone individually to watch and be ready for His return
Mark 13:33-35 NIV
[33] Be on guard! Be alert ! You do not know when that time will come. [34] It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. [35] “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back---whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn.
** It is easy to blame “the next generation” because they will always appear to be softer and less motivated than the ones who came before. But the next generation is raised by the previous generation. God was adamant in commanding His people to pass down their faith; pouring knowledge about the Holy One of Israel into the next generation. <M139>
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV
[4] Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [5] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. [6] These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. [7] Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. [8] Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. [9] Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
** God is not going to hold us accountable for the decisions made by others regarding the gospel but will hold us accountable whether we shared the gospel; let’s make sure the gospel seed has been planted and our ‘seed bag’ is empty when the Lord returns <S187>
Matthew 28:19 NIV
[19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 3:6-7 NIV
[6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. [7] So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.
** Encourage those who are young in their faith to grow in Christ, while rejoice and learn from those who show signs of a deeper walk in Christ
• Siblings are to sharpen each other in our faith journey for the duration of our lives; we remain a work-in-progress and should be able to learn from one another
• We gauge another’s walk with Christ by ‘detecting a tree by its fruit’ — can we see evidence of their faith that matches their words?
• Walk with them according to this evidence, encouraging them to prioritize God and obey His Word
Proverbs 27:12,17 NIV
[12] The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty. [17] As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Luke 6:43-44 NIV
[43] “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. [44] Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.
• At the same time, remember what we witness of others is surface-level and is usually not the ‘whole story’; we typically do not know motives and all the layers that drive another’s thinking and behavior — but God knows and that is what is important!
• Remember Christ’s response to Judas even when He KNEW that his motive was to betray Him — before the journey to the cross, Jesus washed Judas’ feet at the last supper and later in the garden He reached out to give ‘His false accuser’ another chance to change his mind
• Exhibit concern for others but stay clear of drawing final conclusions about them — it is God to judge in the end, and not for us to judge along the way
• If there is concern for a brother or sister in Christ, then encourage them on their journey to hold true to what God outlines in His Word
• At the same time, be on guard against false doctrine and evil intent while remaining in prayer for them!
• There are times we need to disconnect with another who vehemently opposes God’s truth while asking the Holy Spirit to correct erroneous thinking and behavior
Galatians 5:25-26 NIV
[25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. [26] Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
Colossians 3:11-14 NIV
[11] Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. [12] Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. [13] Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. [14] And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
1 Timothy 6:20-21 NIV
[20] Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, [21] which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith. Grace be with you all.
Luke 6:37 NIV
[37] “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
** There is a time for everything – even regarding sin <L120>
• Do people understand what they are doing and the consequences of sin?
• There is a season where sin seems advantageous and gives a sense of euphoria, but then comes a time of repercussion and consequence for that sin
• Let’s remember this and help others see that consequences may await them for the sin they are committing!
Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV
[1] There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens
Ecclesiastes 3:17 NIV
[17] I said to myself, “God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked, for there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed.”
** What is the purpose of debating theology?
• The ultimate result would be a non-believer choosing to accept, commit and live for God
• Even if conversion is not a consideration at first, the exercise of testing reasoning skills through debate could lead to an unexpected confirmation or change of heart
1 Corinthians 14:20 NIV
[20] Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
1 Peter 3:15 NIV
[15] But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
1 Corinthians 1:20 NIV
[20] Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
Proverbs 16:23 NIV
[23] The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction.
** The Bible often uses the examples of military battle, fighting, and warfare as a picture of the Christian life. Anyone who chooses to be on the side of the Lord Jesus Christ will face severe opposition from Satan and his followers. On the day you put your faith in Jesus Christ, a very real spiritual war begins in your life.
We will either fight or suffer defeat. We will either gain ground or lose ground. But we must be involved in the spiritual battle. And if we try to be spiritual pacifists, we’ll be knocked down.
Therefore, we had better suit up. We had better put on our spiritual armor and learn principles from God’s Word that teach us how to be more than conquerors in Christ.
Remember, Jesus told the disciples that the gates of Hell would not prevail against them as the church. We may not fully understand what this means today. But in their first-century culture, they would have known that one of the primary strategies for attacking a fortress was to knock down the gates with a battering ram, rush in, and defeat the opposing army.
In the same way, we as the church are marching on, even against the fortresses of the enemy. And their gates will not prevail against us. Those gates eventually will fall, and we will triumph.
We may lose a skirmish here and a battle there, but we will win the war. There’s no doubt about it. The truth of the gospel ultimately will prevail. Meanwhile, it’s up to us to fight the good fight of faith. <L120>
2 Timothy 4:7 NIV
[7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 2:3 NIV
[3] Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV
[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Matthew 16:18 NIV
[18] And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
** It’s not OK for Christians to sit back in apathy about Christ’s return because He commands us to be on guard <S1992>
• Since Israel became a nation in 1948, the signs have increased to an incredible rate
• We are left without excuse because the signs are all around us, much like the signs were there when Jesus interacted with the Pharisees in the first century
• Jesus came to earth the first time precisely as foretold by prophets of the Old Testament; we are not to make the same mistake
Matthew 24:42 NIV
[42] “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.
** Mordecai reminded Esther that everything is NOT riding on her shoulders for God is bigger than what Esther decides to do
• Mordecai understood God would provide another way for the Jews to escape if Esther did not follow through
• God will accomplish His will another way if needed
Esther 4:14 NIV
[14] For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
** The comparison between Mary and Martha is helpful for believers, to remember the need to prioritize Jesus in their Christian journey <F60>
MARTHA:
• Distracted from Jesus
• Chose to prepare for Jesus
• Stood on her feet for Jesus
• Prioritized the physical instead of Jesus
• Busied by many things
• Worried and upset about everything
• Attacked Mary for not doing anything
• Was upset at Jesus
• Needed to do what she wanted
• Wanted to take Mary away from Jesus
• Earthly minded in the temporal
MARY:
• Focused on Jesus
• Chose to listen to Jesus
• Sat at the feet of Jesus
• Prioritized the spiritual because of Jesus
• Blessed by the one and only best thing
• Calm and peaceful, worried about nothing
• Defended by Jesus for doing the right thing
• Blessed by Jesus
• Wanted to do what she needed
• Took herself away from Martha to be with Jesus
• Heavenly minded in the eternal
Luke 10:38-40 NIV
[38] As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. [39] She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. [40] But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
Luke 10:41-42 NIV
[41] “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, [42] but few things are needed---or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
John 12:25 NIV
[25] Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
Colossians 3:2 NIV
[2] Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
** Paul made a call to the exclusivity of the Christian faith comprised of one body (church), one Spirit, one hope (heaven for those in Christ), one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God
• There is no other faith that leads to God than redemptive salvation through Jesus Christ
• The unity Paul talks about in the early verse of Eph 4 is for the brothers and sisters who belong to the Christian faith <M130>
• Paul wrote the letter to Ephesians based on the conviction that the body of Christ is one
• Our lives in Christ must express this conviction by affirming our love for other believers <R1795>
Ephesians 4:3-6 NIV
[3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called ; [5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism; [6] one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
** Do not put your hope in the systems of this world to save this world — be it left, right, Dem, Rep, liberal, conservative etc — but in God alone; at the same time expose the evil around you but do not play in their game <F60>
Ephesians 5:11 NIV
[11] Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
1 John 1:5-7 NIV
[5] This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. [6] If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. [7] But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
** The world is moving toward a one world unified religion where all individual religions are deemed valid but must agree on a unified end-goal that leads to the same god; this would be led by one “civilized coordinator” as stated in a UN document <T202> (Nov 2022)
2 Timothy 3:1,5-7 NIV
[1] But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. [5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. [6] They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, [7] always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.
** Jeremiah’s message to the Israelites in captivity is a message Christian’s should take with us today — despite all the signs warning that the end is here, we are to continue to live and do what God has called us to do while waiting for Christ’s return! <H95>
Jeremiah 29:5-7 NIV
[5] “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. [6] Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. [7] Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”
** God places people in our lives so we will pray for them; be motivated to help those around you with prayer
Galatians 6:2 NIV
[2] Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
James 5:16 NIV
[16] Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
** Christian brothers and sisters are to follow Jesus’ loving example when He encouraged a woman caught in adultery to "go now and leave your life of sin"
John 8:3-7 NIV
[3] The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group [4] and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. [5] In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” [6] They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. [7] When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
** Some say 'black and white' thinking is easier to live out because it reduces the amount of mental anxiety
• There may be truth in that but, on the flip side, there are consequences for holding the line of God's truth in this world of relativity, such as being shunned by others who hold opposing views
• Conveying God's truth is not exactly what people are looking for; they would much rather be told they are fine doing whatever pleases them and whatever makes them feel better about their situation and themselves
• Trouble is, 'making life easier and affirming people in their sin' is not why Christ came to brutally suffer and give up His life on the cross
Mark 13:13 NIV
[13] Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.
Luke 11:33 NIV
[33] “No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.
** It doesn’t matter where a committed believer in Christ travels around the world, they can always unite and bond with other genuine committed believers because they share the same Spirit!
1 Corinthians 12:11 NIV
[11] All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
** Beware: whenever doing a good work for the Lord, you will inevitably be confronted by those wanting to discourage and prevent you from doing the job; don’t listen to their negativity and threats but, rather, stand your ground and continue the job God has entrusted to you! <D40>
Nehemiah 4:1-2 NIV
[1] When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became angry and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews, [2] and in the presence of his associates and the army of Samaria, he said, “What are those feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble---burned as they are?”
Nehemiah 4:4,6-7 NIV
[4] Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. [6] So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart. [7] But when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites and the people of Ashdod heard that the repairs to Jerusalem's walls had gone ahead and that the gaps were being closed, they were very angry.
Joshua 1:9 NIV
[9] Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
1 Chronicles 28:20 NIV
[20] David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.
** Man’s building of the Tower of Babel signifies their attempt to replace God and define their own destiny — they refused to acknowledge God and His ordered design, but rather turn to ‘science’ and creation as the object of their worship <T202>
Genesis 11:3-4 NIV
[3] They said to each other, “Come, let's make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. [4] Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole earth.”
** When feeling slighted or attacked by another regarding something that doesn’t make sense, then remember it may be more about them ‘saving face’ than to hurting you
• Another’s distaste for you may be momentary but they are not necessarily ‘writing you off’, just like you don’t write off others for minor infractions!
• If they do ‘write you off’ then that is a them-problem, not a you-problem
• Consider such times as opportunities to practice humility
• You don’t have to agree with them but you don’t have to fight them either; willingly step aside and continue to pray for their eyes to be opened
• Focus your concern on their spiritual condition, such as whether they are responding and conducting themselves from a Biblical standpoint, rather than whether the issue/project at hand will be resolved/completed
Romans 12:9-13 NIV
[9] Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. [10] Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. [11] Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. [12] Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. [13] Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV
[1] As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. [2] Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. [3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 NIV
[14] And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. [15] Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
** May I always do my best with what I know and what I am given to work with
• Regardless of whether I see any difference in the way others conduct their lives, my viewpoint and attitude for my life should reflect Christ’s teaching and be different than the world
• I want to do the best job I can and not let others get in the way of my spiritual focus
• May I be a support to others as directed by the Holy Spirit, regardless if I disapprove of the other person’s tactics or lack of spiritual manner
• I am still responsible to God for how I conduct myself, just like others who will be responsible to Him for their decisions and actions
Philippians 1:9-11 NIV
[9] And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, [10] so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, [11] filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ---to the glory and praise of God.
2 Timothy 2:15 NIV
[15] Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
1 Corinthians 2:4-7 NIV
[4] My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, [5] so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power. [6] We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. [7] No, we declare God's wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began.
Philippians 3:15-16 NIV
[15] All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. [16] Only let us live up to what we have already attained.
** Men tend to evaluate all situations, both personal and work, through a ‘results and rewards’ filter
The four pillars of this filter ask:
1. What is the game?
2. What are the rules?
3. Who’s keeping score?
4. How do I win?
As a Christian, the filter must include:
1. What does God have to say about this?
2. Would I be violating His law?
3. Would I be violating my promise to God as His follower? <D40>
Proverbs 6:32-34 NIV
[32] But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself. [33] Blows and disgrace are his lot, and his shame will never be wiped away. [34] For jealousy arouses a husband's fury, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.
Psalm 105:3-4 NIV
[3] Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. [4] Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
Romans 8:28 NIV
[28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
** My witness may look different than my neighbor, depending on how God has gifted me
• While some adhere to the ‘forward approach’ such as delivering a message via tracts, others operate in a different environment — like communicating with teenagers who don’t want to listen
• Don’t feel you have to witness the same as your neighbor
• If you buy into this thinking, then you’re getting into ‘works territory’ and neglecting the gifts God has given you!
• For example, God may have given you the ability to ADD into someone’s life with encouragement in a proactive way on a daily basis
• Perhaps let them know they came to mind and you prayed for them
• Don’t keep score waiting for a response in kind, but use your time to shine light into potentially dark places
2 Timothy 2:2 NIV
[2] And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.
Matthew 5:16 NIV
[16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Luke 11:36 NIV
[36] Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be just as full of light as when a lamp shines its light on you.”
2 Timothy 2:20-21 NIV
[20] In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. [21] Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.
** God considers our inner being — thoughts, motives, attitudes, desires, priorities — when He judges us; we must be careful and not deceive ourselves thinking we are 'in the clear' because He only judges our actions!
Revelation 2:23b NIV
[23] Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds
** The Messenger spoke words encouraging the Church in Ephesus of their good deeds, perseverance, defending the faith yet not grown weary in doing good works
• Ephesus = “desire”
• First era church 30-100 AD where Ephesus was the chief city in Asia Minor at crossroads of other cities
• Home of severe pagan worship; temple to Diana with a lot of idol worship
• Theologically correct but loveless; surrounded by paganism
• Those who inherited churches took them for granted
• Angels are assigned to churches to act as witnesses and discipline/oversee as needed
• Christ oversees angels “hold seven stars” and examines us for our works/production and helps as needed
Revelation 2:1 NIV
[1] “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:
These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands.
• God knows absolutely everything
• He evaluates whether we are doing our service (deeds), amount of effort (labor)
• Are people in the church taking on responsibility and applying what they know according to their gifts and according to Scripture?
• Are people able to discern false teachers by knowing Scripture?
Revelation 2:2 NIV
[2] I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false.
• We must persevere to the end under Messiah
• Are you prioritizing Christ in your life? <C31>
Revelation 2:2-3 NIV
I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. [3] You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
Revelation 2:4 NIV
Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.
** Anyone who puts their faith in anyone besides Christ will fail, including politicians and the law of the land; we are not bound by any Mosaic or societal law but are bound to Christ’s commands alone
Galatians 2:16 NIV
[16] know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified.
** Israel was not chosen because it was special, it is special because it was chosen by God; likewise, we are special because God chooses us! <D40>
1 Peter 2:9 NIV
[9] But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
** Worship God with a joyful heart together with fellow believers; we can't worship God if we don't truly know and love Him
Psalm 100:2,4 NIV
[2] Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. [4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
Psalm 103:17-18 NIV
[17] But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children--- [18] with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.
Hebrews 10:22a,25 NIV
[22] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, [25] not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another---and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
** Followers of Christ should attend church services to worship and focus on God alone
• Some church attenders go to church because of the eloquent speaker, social club, choir or organ music
• These superfluous reasons may enhance the church-going experience but are not why God desires we attend
• Let us recognize Yahweh as our only source in life, for everything comes from God!
• God carefully and lovingly created each one of us
• We belong exclusively to God as a product of His creation, desiring that continue to come to Him in worship
• We are well cared for which should encourage us to worship Him <C31>
Psalm 100:3 NIV
[3] Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Psalm 139:13-16 NIV
[13] For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. [14] I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. [15] My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. [16] Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
** Loving others flows from our loving God
• Our primary task is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength
• Loving God prepares us to love each other
• If we love God then we can't help but love our neighbor
• God doesn't need us but created us with a purpose to love Him and others
Mark 12:29-31 NIV
[29] “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [30] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ [31] The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
** When we ‘stand in the gap’ for our Lord, the final results vary:
• Sometimes we experience the miraculous, as demonstrated by faithful followers such as Daniel in the lion’s den and countless examples through the generations
• Sometimes we give our lives to the cause, such as disciples and apostles who suffered horrific death along with all the martyrs through the generations
We must be willing to accept both outcomes when we live for Christ! <D40>
Isaiah 6:8 NIV
[8] Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? ” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Mark 8:34-35 NIV
[34] Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. [35] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.
** God holds all men responsible for their response to His creation
• Some may refuse to acknowledge what He has shown of Himself in His creation
• Even those who have never had an opportunity to verbally hear the gospel, receive witness of the existence and character of God
• If a person positively responds to His revelation, even if it is a solely ‘natural revelation’, God will provide some means for that person to hear the gospel <M130>
Romans 1:20 NIV
[20] For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities---his eternal power and divine nature---have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
Acts 17:27 NIV
[27] God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.
Acts 8:26-29 NIV
[26] Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road---the desert road---that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” [27] So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, [28] and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. [29] The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.”
** Understand that we are not, or ever will be, worthy of accepting God’s free gift of salvation because we remain sinners at our core this side of heaven; hence, we are to continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling
Philippians 2:12-13 NIV
[12] Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed---not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence---continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, [13] for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Romans 7:18-20 NIV
[18] For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. [19] For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do---this I keep on doing. [20] Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
** We do not always understand our surrounding circumstance or God’s purpose in it, but by faith and actively seeking Him we believe God has a perfect will for us and provides wisdom & strength for us to move toward that end
Hebrews 11:1 NIV
[1] Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
** Every believer is a PILGRIM. He is traveling to his Father's house! He is presently a stranger in a strange land, surrounded by temptations, trials, and foes.
His journey lies through a great and terrible wilderness. Therefore he must not expect a very smooth path or many comfortable accommodations. He will have much to grieve and distress him. His heart will be often burdened with grief and filled with sorrow. Tears are common to the Christian. He feels the unsuitableness of the things of time — to his spirit, profession, and aim. And therefore he confesses,
Psalm 39:12 NIV
[12] “Hear my prayer, Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping. I dwell with you as a foreigner, a stranger, as all my ancestors were.
Weariness and painfulness are his portion now but a rest remains for him! It is a glorious rest. It embraces and includes all that the believer has prayed for and can desire!
• It waits for him at the end of his journey
• It was prepared for him from the foundation of the world
• It is now promised to him in the faithful Word, and
• It will be bestowed upon him when he has fought the good fight and finished his course
Everything at present may appear gloomy and distressing; but ahead of you, believer, everything is glorious, magnificent, and blessed. Press on then. Fight the good fight of faith. Travel on in the strength of Jesus! You are going home and you have a glorious home to go to!
The minute after you have entered your rest, you will forget all the fatigue, all the dangers, and all the difficulties of the way. You will perhaps be filled with wonder, that you should ever have allowed such trifles to vex you, or such little trials to discourage you — with such a glorious end before you. All will be satisfied, all will be full. In a little while, you will see the portal of your Father's house and hear Him say, "Come in, you who are blessed of the Lord, tarry no longer outside! Come, dwell forever with Me!" <S183>
Hebrews 11:13 NIV
[13] All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth.
** Evangelizing starts with “sowing the seed”; this concept is similar to the Chinese proverb “the journey of 1000 miles starts with one step”
Acts 8:5-6 NIV
[5] Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. [6] When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said.
** I see all the insanity in today’s world and can’t help but think of a teenage analogy. As a school counselor, my mind goes to witnessing kids in their environment.
Let’s say the typical teenage boy thinks he has the world by the tail and is immune from the forces that restrict everyone but him. He is not subject or responsible economically, socially, physically, etc as his poor parents and other adults who are ‘slaves to the system’. So he thinks and acts according to his imaginary existence that he’s created for himself.
Because of his puffed up attitude not based in reality, he makes a mistake one day. When the consequence arrives, he is now faced with the fact that he is part of the common race with the same restrictions as others. This can’t be! So he tries to fix the mistake but only with another mistake. When the consequence of the second mistake comes upon him, he doesn’t come to terms with reality but instead doubles-down and digs himself deeper, telling more lies and believing them all the way! Hence he digs himself into a seemingly impossible situation.
I see the same happening with an arrogant world that belligerently believes it is in control — not God. In fact, it mocks the very Creator that provided life and mocks the boundaries and commands/guidelines He provided so we can survive successfully. Instead of coming to terms with the reality of God, the world continues to dig deeper in its godless pursuits.
Well, one day the teenager matures to realize the realities around him are far beyond even his control. It is not too late for this teenager-turned-man if he accepts the reality of his situation and starts acting responsibly.
Similarly, the world one day WILL realize that God exists — they won’t have a choice because every individual will stand before their Maker, despite all their efforts to ignore and think themselves above this reality. Let’s hope and pray they will wake up to the reality that God is in charge before it is too late and they can’t turn back! (Nov 2022)
Ecclesiastes 11:9 NIV
[9] You who are young, be happy while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.
Proverbs 3:7 NIV
[7] Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.
Psalm 25:7 NIV
[7] Do not remember the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you, Lord, are good.
2 Timothy 2:22 NIV
[22] Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Revelation 11:18 NIV
[18] The nations were angry, and your wrath has come. The time has come for judging the dead, and for rewarding your servants the prophets and your people who revere your name, both great and small---and for destroying those who destroy the earth.”
** Do not put trust in yourself
• It's easy to trust in what we can see, such as people and things
• We also tend to trust our own reasoning and ability
• But these are all misplaced trusts
Psalm 115:1 NIV
[1] Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.
** Even though we cannot see God we can trust Him because of His character, power, protection, care and patience <C31>
• Trust in anything but God brings devastation in our lives in an instant
• Nothing, on the other hand, is out of God's control and off His radar
• Review Genesis 1-2 to remind you that nothing existed until God spoke creation into being
1. CHARACTER
- God loves us regardless of anything we've done
- we don't need to earn God's love even when He does not want us to stay the way we are; His love enables us to change
Psalm 115:1 NIV
[1] Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.
2. POWER
- God has no limits, for He is completely sovereign
- He is all-powerful and Creator of all that exists
- we have the responsibility to take care of His creation but we cannot take credit for it; we rely on Him to sustain life
Psalm 115:3,15-16 NIV
[3] Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him. [15] May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. [16] The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind.
3. PROTECTION
- based on His knowledge and power, we can trust Him
- God is our help (watch over, encourage, sustain) and shield (nothing can hurt us when we exist behind His shield)
Psalm 115:9-11 NIV
[9] All you Israelites, trust in the Lord---he is their help and shield. [10] House of Aaron, trust in the Lord---he is their help and shield. [11] You who fear him, trust in the Lord---he is their help and shield.
4. CARE
- God is always aware of our needs; we forget but God does not
- He cares about the small detail as He does for those things we consider great
Psalm 115:12-14 NIV
[12] The Lord remembers us and will bless us: He will bless his people Israel, he will bless the house of Aaron, [13] he will bless those who fear the Lord---small and great alike. [14] May the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children.
5. PATIENCE
- it is appointed for man once to die and then the judgment
- God will not die; we can trust Him with an everlasting trust
- patiently waiting for us to trust Him
Psalm 115:17-18 NIV
[17] It is not the dead who praise the Lord, those who go down to the place of silence; [18] it is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore. Praise the Lord.
Habakkuk 1:12 NIV
[12] Lord, are you not from everlasting? My God, my Holy One, you will never die. You, Lord, have appointed them to execute judgment; you, my Rock, have ordained them to punish.
** What does it mean to be a Christian? <D43>
1. To be a Christian--is to depart from iniquity.
To this, the name obliges us; and without this we have no right to the name. "Let everyone who names the name of Christ, depart from iniquity!" (2 Tim 2:19). That is, let him depart from iniquity, or not even dare to take that sacred name!
Christ was perfectly free from sin. He was "holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners." His followers also shall be perfectly free from sin, in a little time! Before long, they will enter into the pure regions of perfect holiness, and will drop all their sins, along with their mortal bodies--into the grave!
To depart from iniquity, is essential to Christianity--and without it there can be no such thing as a Christian!
There was nothing that Christ was so remote from--as sin! And therefore, for those that indulge themselves in sin--and yet to wear His name, is just as absurd and ridiculous as for an illiterate dunce to call himself a university professor!
Therefore, if you will not renounce iniquity--then renounce the Christian name! You cannot consistently retain both!
2. To be a Christian--is to deny yourselves, and take up the cross, and follow Christ.
These are the terms of discipleship fixed by Christ Himself and is the essential character of every true Christian.
Luke 9:23 NIV
[23] Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
To DENY ourselves, is to abstain from the pleasures of sin, to moderate our sensual appetites, to deny our own interest for the sake of Christ. In short, it is to sacrifice everything inconsistent with our duty to Him, when these come in competition.
To take up our CROSS, is to bear sufferings, to encounter difficulties, and break through them all--in imitation of Jesus Christ, and for His sake.
To FOLLOW Christ, is to trace His steps, and imitate His example--whatever it costs us.
3. To be a Christian--is to be a follower or imitator of Christ.
Paul tells us that believers will be conformed to His image, Romans 8:29; and that the same mind must be in us, which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5
Christ's heart glowed with love to His Father! He delighted in universal obedience to Him; it was His food and drink to do the Father's will, even in the most painful and self-denying instances! He abounded in devotion, in prayer, meditation and every pious duty.
He was also full of every grace and virtue towards mankind! Towards all, He was:
• Meek and humble
• Kind and benevolent
• Just and charitable
• Merciful and compassionate
Beneficence to the souls and bodies of men was the business of His life, for He went about doing good.
Acts 10:38 NIV
[38] how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.
1 Peter 2:21 NIV
[21] To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
Does your Christianity, my friends, stand this test? May one know that you belong to Christ--by your living like Him, and manifesting the same temper and spirit?
If you claim the name of Christ, then where is that:
• Ardent devotion
• Affectionate love to God
• Zeal for His glory
• Alacrity in His service
• Resignation to His will
• Generous benevolence to mankind
• Zeal to promote their best interests
• Meekness and forbearance under ill usage
• Unwearied activity in doing good to all
• Self-denial and heavenly-mindedness
which shone so conspicuous in Christ, whose holy name you bear? <D43>
1 John 2:6 NIV
[6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.
** We are slaves to Christ, so clothe yourself as such!
• Slaves wore clothes that identified them as servants
• Jesus is not just talking about putting on something on the outside but adjusting your character so people can identify you as a follower of Christ
• We need to model how to follow God and how He wants us to live <C31>
1 Peter 5:5 NIV
[5] In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
** If we want to be useful in God’s Kingdom then we need to look past the superficial and see people as spiritual souls — based on whether they have a sincere relationship with Christ and are a new creation <M130>
2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NIV
[16] So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. [17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
** As a fellow pastor who had been with Jesus, Peter was called to “feed my sheep”; Peter then commissioned elders to take care the sheep under their charge
1 Peter 5:1-4 NIV
[1] To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ's sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: [2] Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them---not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; [3] not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. [4] And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
John 21:15-17 NIV
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” [16] Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” [17] The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.
Responsibilities of pastors
• Look after those in their church (flock) including rescue, protect, lead in instruction, discipline, model, etc
• Help prepare their flock for difficult times and should help walk others through suffering
• Serve willingly because of God's call
• Understand that everyone is called to different tasks and responsibilities
Motivation of pastors (should be)
• To lead out of love and service, not power
• Typically, there is a need for money but it should not be the motivator
• To be a servant-leader, encouraging others to work together and not be placed on a pedestal
• To follow and demonstrate Jesus' commands and authority
Pastors are under the Great Shepherd (and should)
• Take instruction from God and obey Him like the rest of his flock
• Remember the church belongs to God, not to the pastor
• Be held to a higher accountability to exercise authority and oversight
• Pour God's wisdom into the lives of others according to God's truth
• Be available to those who do not know God and are blinded <C31>
** Jesus sent the twelve, two by two, to spread the Gospel after having given them authority over impure spirits
• Jesus’ power is so great that it can be expressed through others
• We can minister to others, not because of some spiritual gift, but because Christ has chosen to work in and through those who believe in Him
• The power to serve involves being His feet, hands, and mouth when we surrender to Him <R1795>
Mark 6:7 NIV
[7] Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.
Mark 6:12-13 NIV
[12] They went out and preached that people should repent. [13] They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
** God sets an unambiguous order in our relations so we know our responsibilities and ultimate accountability to God
• Follow Paul AS he followed Christ
• We know the fruit produced by Paul as a follower of Christ, so then we give credence and willingly follow his writings <D40>
• The same can be said of wives who are to willingly follow their husband AS is evidenced by the husband’s walk with God
1 Corinthians 11:1-3 NIV
[1] Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. [2] I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the traditions just as I passed them on to you. [3] But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.
1 Corinthians 11:7-9 NIV
[7] A man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. [8] For man did not come from woman, but woman from man; [9] neither was man created for woman, but woman for man.
Ephesians 5:21-24 NIV
[21] Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. [22] Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. [23] For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. [24] Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.
** Others tend to get hurt when we are 'out for ourselves'; Christ encourages us not to live for ourselves but to live in humility
Living in humility elevates others and brings us together, while living in pride tears us apart and creates division in the church
• Do not practice false humility that downplays our own abilities
• The younger are to respect elders, as sheep follow and listen to their shepherd
• Everyone has their place/responsibilities in the community of Christ
• God-given authority should be respected and leaders should lead with servant hearts, as Christ came to serve <C31>
1 Peter 5:5-7 NIV
[5] In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” [6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
** Were you made only to be a machine for digging holes, laying bricks, or cutting out pieces of wood? Were you created only to stand at a counter and measure or weigh out goods? Do you think your God made you for that and that only?
Is this the chief end of man: to earn so many dollars a week, and try to make ends meet? Is that all immortal men were made for?
As a man with a soul, capable of thought and judgment — and not a mere animal like a dog, nor a machine like a steam engine; can you stand up and look at yourself, and say, "I believe I am perfectly fulfilling my destiny"?
God has made man that he may glorify Him, and whatever else man accomplishes, if he attains not to this end, his life is a disastrous failure!
Others are lovers of pleasure. They are merry as the birds, their life is as the flight of a butterfly, which lightly floats from flower to flower, according to its own sweet will.
It cannot be that an immortal spirit was made for frivolities, spending all its time on the playthings of the world! So great a thing as an immortal soul could not have been made by God, with no higher object than to spend itself upon trifles as light as air.
Oh, pause a while, you careless, godless one!
• There is something more than the fool's laugh
• All things are not a comedy
• Death and Heaven and Hell are serious, and should life be
The charms of music, the merriment of the mirthful assembly, the beauties of art, and the delights of banqueting; there must be something more for you than these. Something more must be required of you than that you should waste your precious time from morn to night upon nothing but to please yourself! <S185>
1 John 2:15 NIV
[15] Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.
** Resolve in your heart that you will remain pure for God; when suffering comes then we'll be strong, ready to endure, and a testimony to others
1 Peter 4:3 NIV
[3] For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do---living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry.
Our natural tendency is to live for ourselves and 'enjoy' lawless worldly desires
• When we do this we push God aside and suck the life out of those around us
• We are not satisfied, desiring more and more which leads to excess
• Do not be drawn into temptation because it is death and destruction
• God has the power to change lives; no sin too bad to be forgiven
• Anyone can be changed and come to Christ
1 Peter 4:4-5 NIV
[4] They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. [5] But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
A changed life draws attention and confrontation • Many come out of these types of lifestyles and some people they used to hang out with are not happy about the change
• Friends of the old way often try to draw us back because they are blind to the goodness of God
• Our change emphasizes their sin and lack of change
• We can't live a life pleasing to God and live our old lives
• Pray for these friends; cut yourself off from them if needed but remain in prayer for them
** The world tries to draw us in to adapt to their values and morals; even though the majority think a certain way does not mean it's right
1 Peter 2:11-12 NIV
[11] Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. [12] Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
LIVING A LIFE OF HONOR
• God calls us to live a holy life for our own good
• Sin damages our most inner being (soul), just like certain chemicals react against each other and produce eruptions
• Living in honor includes not harming ourselves through sin that drives you away from God; avoid passions of the flesh
• Standing against evil is not easy but is essential if wanting to live in honor
• It's a daily battle to make the right choices; choose between Satan who wants us destroyed and God who wants us to succeed
• We don't have ice cream in the house when on a diet so make wise choices and avoid evil when wanting to live a life of honor
TRUTHS TO REMEMBER
1. Know that you are God's honored possession
• We have value because He created us; it is not earned but given
2. The temptation I am facing is temporary
• We don't belong in this world as exiles and sojourners
• This life is important because this time determines eternity; it prepares us to worship God if we endure the temporary tests of today
• There is always hope for an end to these trials
3. My life has influence on other people
• Our influence is either negative, neutral or positive; being neutral means I am not affecting others in a positive way
• Continue doing what is right even in the face of opposition
• Our prayer is that this positive behavior glorifies God and leads others to Him
• On the contrary, negative behavior reflects bad on God and can deter others from seeking Him
• Consistent positive behavior can often overcome previous negative behavior <C31>
** God created us differently as male or female and, hence, our approach to life is different within the order He sets before us
• There has been a lot of media pressure to blur the lines between gender
• We are all made in the image of God and can agree we are different, each with a God-given purpose to fulfill
Ephesians 5:22-33 NIV
Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. [23] For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. [24] Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. [25] Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her [26] to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, [27] and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. [28] In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. [29] After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church--- [30] for we are members of his body. [31] “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” [32] This is a profound mystery---but I am talking about Christ and the church. [33] However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
What does it mean to be a good wife?
1. Submit to your husband (vs 1-2)
• It means for the wife to accept and respect her husband, who in turn is to love sacrificially and unconditionally his wife
• Wives still need to love and submit to husband even if he doesn't love or fulfill his agreement
• God holds the man responsible for the family in all respects, including spiritually
• When a woman fulfills her duty and focus on God's plan, she can win the heart of a non-Christian husband: to encourage him and to strengthen and improve the relationship
• She is called not to nag but demonstrate a Christ-led life
1 Peter 3:1-2 NIV
[1] Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, [2] when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.
2. Develop inner character
• Media bombards us with perfect images of people but appearance does not give us value
• Love is not about being overly concerned about appearance but understand that love is internal
• Inner character starts with a genuine commitment to God
• Develop the inner beauty and let your character speak for you
1 Peter 3:3-4 NIV
[3] Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. [4] Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.
3. Trust in God
• Women of faith served as good examples
• Trust God's design for marriage and work toward that
• Remember that your fulfillment does not come from a marriage/husband but only God
• Marriage is full of uncertainty; there is no guarantee your husband will be a good example
• Women of faith trust God first and have no reason to be afraid for He will protect them
• God assures us that grace will prevail in the end
1 Peter 3:5-6 NIV
[5] For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, [6] like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.
** Followers of Christ should exhibit a noticeable genuine love and radical obedience that has its foundation in God
Love must be based on God:
• We can truly love because we are born again, which is the starting point for every good deed
• We need to focus on God, which is possible when we are born again
• Our focus needs to shift from temporal to eternal (what is important)
• Understanding this life is temporary gives us motivation to share the Gospel
1 Peter 1:24-25 NIV
For, “All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, [25] but the word of the Lord endures forever.” And this is the word that was preached to you.
Obeying God radically changes our life:
• We start out of focus but grow into focus as we obey and trust in God
• This is the difference between religion and relationship, for following rituals (religion) doesn't change the heart
• Our growing stronger in obedience and faith will help us in times of struggle and, in turn, trials will further purify our faith
• The world says "follow your heart" but we are to believe God's truth because it is tested, eternal and perfect
1 Peter 1:6-7 NIV
In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. [7] These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith---of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire---may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
Genuine love emits from a changed life:
• Genuine love can start with brotherly love; love that brings the church together as a group
• There is sincerity, not putting on a show but a genuine outpouring of a changed life
• Growth in us will lead to an agape type of love, which is opposite to the typical view of "what can I get from this?"
• As Christ chose to go to the cross in unconditional love, so we must choose (strive) to have unconditional love for others
• A pure heart has the right motives given by God <C31>
** As followers of Christ, our first allegiance is to God rather than men; make sure you are ready to suffer the consequences when going against worldly authority — most apostles ended up giving their lives
1 Peter 2:13-17 NIV
Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, [14] or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. [15] For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. [16] Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. [17] Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.
This is foundational in the Christian life:
• Peter was writing to those who were scattered throughout the Roman empire
• Caesars were proclaiming to be gods and Christians were in a tight spot
• Christians were still encouraged to respect authority even though they were accused of being bad citizens
• Their respect took away the power of the accusations
• When you believe the government violated God’s law, ask yourself if a Biblical value was really been violated or is it a matter of personal preference? <C31>
Acts 5:27-29 NIV
The apostles were brought in and made to appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. [28] “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.” [29] Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!
** We are never free to disrespect or mistreat others; we are saved by God's grace but don't use it (expecting to be forgiven) to sin!
• God paid the price to provide us this grace; don't make light of it
• We are only truly free when we become slaves to God
• Don't fall in the trap thinking we know better; our own decisions will keep us in bondage
• Living for God will move us to respect God and others <C31>
1 Peter 2:16-17 NIV
Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. [17] Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.
** Many early Christians were servants and slaves
• Peter's audience consisted of early Christians who were instructed to submit to authority
• This passage speaks to anyone who submits to authority (governments), just or unjust
• When we respond and endure unjust suffering, we please God
• God will produce something good out of a bad situation (Rom 8:28) which gives a powerful testimony to non-believers
• God gives us the ability to endure man's law; we can't control what happens to us but we can control how we respond <C31>
1 Peter 2:18 NIV
Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.
Romans 8:28 NIV
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
** Jesus is the perfect example of endurance and is the standard we strive
• Much like scribes copied original documents in great detail, we are to follow Christ in detail who never committed sin
• Christ never returned evil for evil
Remember how Christ literally took our place on the cross enduring our punishment
• He makes it possible for us to overcome sin and live rightly
• He is our Shepherd and loves us even though we are defenseless, disobedient and dependent like sheep
• We depend on God for absolutely everything including every breath we take
• God provides everything, especially what is eternal
• God’s provision doesn't mean He will 'save' us from difficult situations but it does give us the ability to live in hope <C31>
1 Peter 2:21-23 NIV
To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. [22] “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” [23] When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.
** The world views 'the top' differently than Christians who find out once their dreams are achieved, there is nothing there; followers of Christ realize their reward is in Heaven
1 Peter 1:4-5 NIV
[4] and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, [5] who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
** As followers of Christ, we are to recognize the root cause of fighting and how best to overcome these times <C31>
It’s sad when people fight and quarrel:
• Remember when Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement; the Lord used it to solve the root cause of conflict and advance His cause
• We need to strive for unity; such as in John 27 when Christ prayed for unity of the body of Christ before He ascended
Types of fights mentioned in the book of James:
• At war with each other and ourselves (ch 1)
• Class war (ch 2)
• Employment war (ch 5)
• Church fights (ch 1, ch 3)
• Personal wars (ch 4)
Fights come from within ourselves and with wrong motives:
• We often have deep desires that are uncontrolled
• Unfulfilled desires because we ask with wrong motives (beyond our need)
• Do we really need certain possessions?
• Selfish desires are the essence of sin, like Achan who stole for himself
• Those who are at war with themselves are not happy
Those at war with God:
• Have an unfriendliness toward God (vs 4) and are typically friends with the Lord's enemies, or the world
• In doing so, we break our covenant with God when we are to be committed to God completely
• We disregard Scripture (vs 5); spirit within us wants all of us and must seek Him
• We show ourselves to be proud and put ourselves above another; God is opposed to the proud (vs 6)
Practical advice to avoid fighting and divisions:
• Draw near to God (vs 7-10); what is your walk with God like?
• Have you experienced spiritual rebirth and surrendered to Him?
• Do you practice submission?
• Draw near to God and He will draw near to you!
• God will reveal wisdom and what you should know
• Repent for your sins (vs 8-9)
• Resist the devil (vs 7)
• Avoid slandering others (vs 11-12) while trying to make yourself look good
James 4:17 NIV
If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.
** Are you practicing an empty faith?
• Empty confessions (14), false compassion (15-17), shallow conviction (18-20)
• Just because you believe God does not make you a Christian; even Satan believes
• If the decision to follow God does not change anything, you probably aren't saved <C31>
James 2:14-20 NIV
[14] What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? [15] Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. [16] If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? [17] In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. [18] But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. [19] You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that---and shudder. [20] You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless ?
** Our salvation comes by faith but is evidenced and matured through good works
• Salvation is given by God
• We cannot be saved by our works lest anyone should boast
• We are saved (created) to do good works
Faith that saves is evidenced by good works
• The heart condition changes which changes our outward actions
• Abraham offered his son as proof of his faith; Abraham was tested long after he was declared righteous
• Rahab proved her faith by protecting the messengers of God
• Early church members sold possessions to give to the poor, they gave the best they had
• Can others see how faith has affected you? <C31>
James 2:21-22,26 NIV
[21] Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? [22] You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. [26] As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
James 2:25 NIV
[25] In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?
Genesis 15:6 NIV
[6] Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV
[8] For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith---and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--- [9] not by works, so that no one can boast. [10] For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
** We must question a faith that does not show results/works
• God knows if we believe on Him; we can say the words but not have faith
• Wheat and tares look the same but they will be separated at harvest time
• Don't believe you are a Christian because you go to church etc; test yourselves
• Those with the right words but not the right heart will be denied in the end <C31>
James 2:14 NIV
[14] What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?
John 2:23-25 NIV
[23] Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, many people saw the signs he was performing and believed in his name. [24] But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. [25] He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.
Matthew 13:27-30 NIV
[27] “The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?' [28] “ 'An enemy did this,' he replied. “The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?' [29] “ 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. [30] Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' ”
** Why is it wrong to favor one person over another?
• Favoritism is a sin against God’s law, for the worth of a person is not based on another’s opinion
• Every person has value because they bear the image of God
• Biblical truths are absolute
• The church should not favor or accept those in alternate lifestyles, just as it should not favor the wealthy over the poor
• We are to love one another, otherwise we are guilty of breaking all of God’s law
• When we prioritize a person’s worth due to high esteem or low self-worth, we care too much what others think
• There are consequences for choices made; no one is forced to be a believer <C31>
James 2:1,9 NIV
[1] My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. [9] But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
James 2:8-10 NIV
[8] If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. [9] But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. [10] For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
Romans 2:9-11 NIV
[9] There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; [10] but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. [11] For God does not show favoritism.
** Jesus issued a new command for His disciples to love one another
• Now that Jesus is leaving them, they were to shift their focus off Jesus and onto one another to show they are continuing to follow and obey Christ
John 13:34-35 NIV
[34] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Mark 12:31 NIV
[31] The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
• Love brings joy...
John 15:10-11 NIV
[10] If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. [11] I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
• There is no room for hate in love...
1 John 2:9 NIV
[9] Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness.
• Our actions demonstrate our love...
1 John 3:18 NIV
[18] Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
** Thank God for the community of believers that demonstrates an increasing love for one another and a faith that is maturing among its members; connect with brothers and sisters in Christ to find blessing and encouragement in your journey with Him
2 Thessalonians 1:3 NIV
We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing.
Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV
[24] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, [25] not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another---and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
** Respond to those who want favored status as God would treat them
• God created us and loves all His creation
• Showing favoritism to those who are lowly mocks the character of God our Creator
• Let the word of God guide you which tells us not to discriminate
• Talk and act like a person who will be judged by God’s law; our actions speak (or don't speak) for Christ
• Let love and mercy be your guide; don't be quick to judge and place pressure on those who make mistakes
• "All ground is level beneath the cross" <L122>
• Don't be like the person who received mercy from his debtor yet pressured another to repay him <C31>
James 2:12-13 NIV
[12] Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, [13] because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
1 Corinthians 12:12-14 NIV
[12] Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. [13] For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body---whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free---and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. [14] Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.
Deuteronomy 19:16-18a NIV
[16] If a malicious witness takes the stand to accuse someone of a crime, [17] the two people involved in the dispute must stand in the presence of the Lord before the priests and the judges who are in office at the time. [18] The judges must make a thorough investigation
** Act and share the word of God, not out of guilt or habit (like paying homage to spirits at spirit houses) but out of a desire to help others
• Share out of a sincere service and from a sincere heart, being a defender of orphans and widows
• Share without compromise
• Emphasize to others that we don't follow a religion, but a relationship
James 1:26-27 NIV
[26] Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. [27] Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
** Take every opportunity to preach the Word of God; Paul and apostles set their priorities to suit the needs of others and not themselves or their own agenda
Acts 6:2 NIV
[2] So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables.
2 Timothy 4:1-4 NIV
[1] In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: [2] Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage---with great patience and careful instruction. [3] For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. [4] They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.
** Receive the word of God properly; consider how we receive and act on His word:
• Seize every opportunity to learn God's word
• If we don't receive it eagerly and accurately, then we won't know how to apply it
• If we stop growing then we are not trying, for His word should challenge and give us every opportunity to grow
• There is nothing wrong with God's seed (word) but the soil that receives it!
• Receive God's word with a prepared heart; put aside all sin to receive His word uninhibited
• Receive God's word with humility; know that we cannot survive or succeed without His guidance
• Be quick to hear and slow to speak; is what you are saying what God wants you to say?
• Be slow to anger; is there resentment to the message of God's word? <C31>
James 1:19-21 NIV
[19] My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, [20] because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. [21] Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
** Be transformed by and doers of His word!
• A mirror, like God’s word, helps us look at ourselves with proper examination; an example is Moses who literally collected mirrors to melt and make a basin in front of the temple altar where people could see their reflection as they cleansed themselves with water (Ex 38:8)
• Make reading of God’s word a daily priority so we can consume it in and remember it
• God's word demands action, so act on what we see or read
• We have a responsibility to act on God's word when we hear it; that's why some don't want to know it <C31>
James 1:22-25 NIV
[22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. [23] Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror [24] and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. [25] But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it---not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it---they will be blessed in what they do.
** As long as God gives you another breath in this life, He has something for you to do — so finish your race as God desires; if you are surrounded by those who don’t want to hear or accept the salvation-gift God has to offer, then keep looking for someone who does <D40>
Acts 20:24 NIV
[24] However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me---the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace.
Galatians 5:7 NIV
[7] You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth?
2 Timothy 4:6-7 NIV
[6] For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. [7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
** There is joy in preaching the Gospel
• Followers are often excited when they see others wake up to the fruits of the Gospel
Philippians 1:11 NIV
[11] filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ---to the glory and praise of God.
Philippians 1:3-4,9 NIV
[3] I thank my God every time I remember you. [4] In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy [9] And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight
• We rejoice being in the partnership of spreading the Gospel
• While the body of believers grows, we can begin to see how Christ works in the lives of new believers
Philippians 1:6 NIV
[6] being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:9-11 NIV
[9] And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, [10] so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, [11] filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ---to the glory and praise of God.
** How is it possible to live a comfortable, low cost, risk-free Christianity that is immune from temptation, attack or persecution? If they persecuted Jesus (green tree) then what will they do to the rest of us? <D40>
Luke 23:31 NIV
[31] For if people do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?”
Acts 13:46,50 NIV
[46] Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. [50] But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region.
** Those who live ‘effortless’ Christian lives are missing out on the joy they could receive watching God use them to impact other people <D40>
Acts 13:46,50-52 NIV
[46] Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. [50] But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. [51] So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went to Iconium. [52] And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 1:6 NIV
[6] You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.
Hebrews 10:34 NIV
[34] You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions.
** There are three words to help evangelize — authority, action and assurance <C31>
AUTHORITY
• All authority is given to Jesus who is absolutely sovereign; focus on the Bible as ultimate guide
• Jesus calls us as His messengers to reveal Himself to the world so people come to Him!
• The message we carry is God's message which is true and the only way to come to salvation
• To love the world means recognizing others needing the changing power of God; it is an intellectual decision and not always a feeling
ACTION
• Believers need to put our witness into action what we know to be true
• We need to deliver God’s message to the ends of the earth (all cultures) because God loves everyone
• The Great Commission has two parts: evangelism and discipleship
Evangelism = share the gospel of Jesus' death and resurrection
- our message needs to reveal God's way of dealing with our sin in order to establish a relationship with Him by choice
- it is not just about doing good things but making a choice to believe and follow Christ
- message must be honed to suit the listener and from where they are coming
Discipleship = guiding another to learn and follow
- encouraging others to continually grow after making the decision to follow Christ
- being a disciple is more than following rules in a religion, but changing your life to reflect a change and desire to grow in Christ
ASSURANCE
• Assurance is a guarantee or confidence that something will happen
• God will provide us with wisdom, words, timing and the power needed to share
• Results are not always evident, for sometimes we are seed-planters, laying a foundation
• Be assured that God will be with us to the end of the age (this life) and beyond!
Matthew 28:18-20 NIV
[18] Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Acts 1:8 NIV
[8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
** ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’ is suppose to be a two-way street <D40>
• If your neighbor isn’t loving you then he is trying to take advantage of your effort to be Christ-like
• Christians are to smash pagan idols like masks and be a threat to evil
• Some believers, however, think confronting evil is not ‘loving your neighbor’, but in the end it is!
Mark 12:31 NIV
[31] The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.”
** Satan constantly throws distractions our way and sometimes we welcome them; Jesus knew His mission and wanted to follow God's perfect timing
• Peter misunderstood Jesus' purpose even though Jesus explained what needed to happen
• Peter rebuked God, not understanding what He was up to
• Peter was mistakenly following Satan's plan
• Do not compromise God's plan in your life, for the opportunity might not be available again
• You will be persecuted and tested; be faithful in your testing and hold firm in confidence
• God will provide what we need in order to accomplish His plan <C31>
Matthew 16:22-23 NIV
[22] Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!” [23] Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”
Romans 5:6 NIV
[6] You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
Hebrews 3:6 NIV
[6] But Christ is faithful as the Son over God’s house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory.
** As much as the Jews hated the Samaritans, Philip’s call to preach the gospel to them was so important that he was willing to enter hostile Samaritan territory
Acts 8:5 NIV
[5] Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there.
** If we are to emulate Christ, then those who follow Him are not to make this world their home
Matthew 8:20 NIV
Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.”
** Make Christ your first priority — even before family obligations; no competing loyalty must outweigh our allegiance to Christ the King
• God gives us many material blessings and many fulfilling relationships
• But neither possessions nor relationships can be more important to us than serving Christ <R1795>
Matthew 8:21-22 NIV
Another disciple said to him, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” [22] But Jesus told him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”
** Wisdom apart from God is earthly and foolish; following earthly wisdom produces:
• Jealousy and selfish ambition — doing whatever it takes to get ahead of others
• Arrogance — thinking or justifying why you are better than another; with Godly wisdom we don't need to be arrogant
• Dishonesty — world has its own definition of truth even though God defines truth for us; abiding by God’s truth supports godly wisdom
• Worldliness — following values of the world, which are not from God but supporting life in the here and now
• Demonic wisdom — following wisdom that goes against God's word
James 3:14-16 NIV
[14] But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. [15] Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. [16] For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
** Godly wisdom and faith produces good fruit, such as:
• Good behavior
• Gentle deeds with humble meekness inspired by godly wisdom
• Purity, revealing God's perfect wisdom expressed through good motive and actions
• Peaceful relationships
• Gentleness and kindness expressed to one another
• Reasonable and teachable spirit
• Merciful perspective that withholds just punishment and is quick to hold back
• Bountiful with Godly characteristics
• Unwavering on Scriptural truths; not easily moving after one fad and then another
• Sincerity in discernment and application of wisdom
• Living peacefully with one another; we cannot be right with God if we are not right with one another <C31>
** David was concerned about his testimony — that others would not be ‘tripped up’ or fall out of God’s grace because of him
Psalm 69:6 NIV
[6] Lord, the Lord Almighty, may those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me; God of Israel, may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me.
** The woman was deceived by Satan where the man willfully sinned against God’s command
God spoke to Adam about not eating from the tree yet he did not stop Eve from doing it, but even participated in the act of disobedience; the man, having been given the responsibility and headship, should have helped the woman into see the sin and been an example of standing against the enemy’s lie
This is why we are told that sin entered the world through one man <K110>
Genesis 3:6 NIV
[6] When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
Romans 5:12 NIV
[12] Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned---
** We need to prepare for the spiritual war before us in the insane days by going to God for wisdom and strength; like Esther who was willing to break man’s law in order to keep God’s law, we must prepare ourselves for the worst and source ourselves in biblical belief <H86>
Esther 4:15-16 NIV
[15] Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: [16] “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
Luke 17:33 NIV
[33] Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it.
** Those who seek after God will be careful not to invest the majority of time with the ungodly, but rather invest in and encourage those who fear the Lord
• Believers will also keep their commitments no matter what, and not alter their course on a whim
• People should know they are careful of promises made and will follow through on them
Psalm 15:1,4 NIV
[1] Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [4] who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind;
** A little wisdom eases efforts in life and wise living often produces a good outcome, even if not as expected; in contrast, lack of Scriptural wisdom leaves one unprepared to handle the tough times
Ecclesiastes 10:10 NIV
[10] If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success.
1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
[13] No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
** We must not, like Job’s friends, decide that a man is a great sinner because calamity falls on him nor believe that outright prosperity is proof of righteousness; outward appearances are no criterion for judgment <B20>
Ecclesiastes 9:1,6 NIV
[1] So I reflected on all this and concluded that the righteous and the wise and what they do are in God's hands, but no one knows whether love or hate awaits them. [6] Their love, their hate and their jealousy have long since vanished; never again will they have a part in anything that happens under the sun.
Job 38:1-3 NIV
[1] Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm. He said: [2] “Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge? [3] Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me.
** You may think what you say about a person is in secret, but it will get back to the person one way or another; never say anything about another you wouldn’t tell them directly
Ecclesiastes 10:20 NIV
[20] Do not revile the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich in your bedroom, because a bird in the sky may carry your words, and a bird on the wing may report what you say.
** Let’s work to our utmost while we are alive because we will not be able to once departed; it takes body and soul to carry on the work of this world <B20>
Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV
[10] Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
John 9:4-5 NIV
[4] As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. [5] While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”
Galatians 6:10 NIV
[10] Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
** Attending Jews affirmed the false accusations coming from the lawyer Tertullus, even though Paul had only been in Jerusalem 12 days and did not have time to break Israeli or Roman law
Acts 24:9-13 NIV
[9] The other Jews joined in the accusation, asserting that these things were true. [10] When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul replied: “I know that for a number of years you have been a judge over this nation; so I gladly make my defense. [11] You can easily verify that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. [12] My accusers did not find me arguing with anyone at the temple, or stirring up a crowd in the synagogues or anywhere else in the city. [13] And they cannot prove to you the charges they are now making against me.
Scripture informs us to stand firm in the faith, to do whatever is necessary to ‘win the cause’ against the wolves that want to devour us
Matthew 10:16 NIV
[16] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Acts 24:15-16 NIV
[15] and I [Paul] have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. [16] So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.
Proverbs 26:4-5 NIV
[4] Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. [5] Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.
James 1:5-8 NIV
[5] If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. [6] But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
Psalm 91:7 NIV
[7] A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.
** Know the danger of associating with fools; value rebuke and discipline from the wise
Ecclesiastes 7:4-6 NIV
[4] The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure. [5] It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools. [6] Like the crackling of thorns under the pot, so is the laughter of fools. This too is meaningless.
** God is in charge of those in authority, so obey them provided they don’t go against His will; the wise will know what is the proper time and procedure
Ecclesiastes 8:2,5 NIV
[2] Obey the king's command, I say, because you took an oath before God. [5] Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure.
** Patience is better than rashly prideful behavior
Ecclesiastes 7:8 NIV
[8] The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.
** Fathers (Ps 128:1), mothers (Prov 31:30) and children (Ps 34:11) are to fear the Lord; Psalm 128 may have been the basis for Jesus’ parable regarding the two builders (Matt 7:24-27)
Psalm 128:1-4 NIV
[1] Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. [2] You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. [3] Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. [4] Yes, this will be the blessing for the man who fears the Lord.
Proverbs 31:30 NIV
[30] Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Psalm 34:11 NIV
[11] Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
Matthew 7:24-27 NIV
[24] “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. [25] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. [26] But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. [27] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
** A virtuous woman is wise and looks out for others’ needs
Proverbs 31:20-21,26-27 NIV
[20] She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. [21] When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. [26] She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. [27] She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Proverbs 31:16-18 NIV
[16] She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. [17] She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. [18] She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
** Obedience to God’s commands
Why call me Lord and do not the things I say,
you call me the way and walk me not,
you call me the life and live me not,
you call me master and obey me not,
if I condemn you, blame me not.
You call me bread and eat me not,
you call me truth and believe me not,
you call me Lord and serve me not,
if I condemn you, blame me not. <O157>
Matthew 7:21-23 NIV
[21] “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' [23] Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
• It is not enough to know or say the words, but we must put these words into ACTION!
• Those who practice God's law build their house on solid ground
• The storm is the final judgment where they will be tested to determine whether they took their commitment to the Lord seriously and built with faith in Him alone
Matthew 7:24-27 NIV
[24] “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. [25] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. [26] But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. [27] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
• As believers, we must STRIVE to enter through the narrow gate and obey God's commands
• It takes effort on our part to not simply say a prayer and live your life the way you want
• It is a matter of taking up our cross and following Him daily; it requires a conscientious decision to deny the patterns of this world and follow God alone
Luke 13:22-25 NIV
[22] Then Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. [23] Someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, [24] “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. [25] Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, 'Sir, open the door for us.' “But he will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'
Proverbs 30:11-12 NIV
[11] “There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers; [12] those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not cleansed of their filth;
Romans 12:2 NIV
[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Psalm 111:10 NIV
[10] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
** In the light of God's greatness and glory, it is an astonishing thing that God should be mindful of man — especially when we see the answer given in the Bible to the question, "What is man?"
Man is set before us in the Word of God as the particular, distinct object of God's mercy, love, and grace. But what is man?
Anyone who knows and acknowledges the greatness of God, will also freely acknowledge the utter insignificance of man. As soon as David looked up to Heaven and spoke to God of His greatness — his heart was humbled, his pride was withered, and he cried, "What is man, that you are mindful of him?"
It is impossible for anyone to have both great views of God and great views of man. Those who imagine that man is great, think that God is insignificant. Those who know that God is great, know that man is insignificant.
"What is man, that You are mindful of him?" Here is:
• greatness, and littleness
• grandeur, and nothingness
• excellence, and corruption
• majesty, and baseness
• God, and man! <F67>
Hebrews 2:6 NIV
[6] But there is a place where someone has testified: “What is mankind that you are mindful of them, a son of man that you care for him?
** Elevating others who demonstrate true humility is honorable, while elevating yourself is disgraceful
• First century banquet seating arrangements reflected the social status of guests
• The closer to the ‘host’, the higher the seat and greater honor to the guest
• Christians can afford to take the humblest of places here on earth; in time, God will instruct us to move to a better place! <R1795>
Proverbs 25:5,7 NIV
[5] remove wicked officials from the king's presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness. [7] it is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,” than for him to humiliate you before his nobles. What you have seen with your eyes
Luke 14:8-10 NIV
[8] “When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. [9] If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, 'Give this person your seat.' Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. [10] But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, 'Friend, move up to a better place.' Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests.
James 4:7-10 NIV
[7] Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. [9] Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. [10] Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
Proverbs 26:12 NIV
[12] Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them.
Proverbs 27:2 NIV
[2] Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.
Proverbs 27:21 NIV
[21] The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but people are tested by their praise.
Proverbs 28:4 NIV
[4] Those who forsake instruction praise the wicked, but those who heed it resist them.
Proverbs 29:23 NIV
[23] Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor.
Proverbs 30:32-33 NIV
[32] “If you play the fool and exalt yourself, or if you plan evil, clap your hand over your mouth! [33] For as churning cream produces butter, and as twisting the nose produces blood, so stirring up anger produces strife.”
** Do not spend too much energy becoming familiar or flattering your neighbor, or they will turn on you
Proverbs 25:17 NIV
[17] Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house---too much of you, and they will hate you.
Proverbs 26:18-19 NIV
[18] Like a maniac shooting flaming arrows of death [19] is one who deceives their neighbor and says, “I was only joking!”
Proverbs 29:5 NIV
[5] Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet.
** Singing songs in an unsympathetic manner to one who has a heavy heart is abrasive, similar to one who turns tranquility into agitation <M130>
Proverbs 25:20 NIV
[20] Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on a wound, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
Proverbs 28:28 NIV
[28] When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding; but when the wicked perish, the righteous thrive.
Proverbs 29:2 NIV
[2] When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.
** Early training secures lifelong habits so parents should draw out God's design in their children in ‘the way they should go’, according to His moral design
• God’s way of life is specified in great detail in the book of Proverbs
• Parents should teach from God’s Word and enforce it with loving discipline, consistently throughout the child’s upbringing <M130>
Proverbs 22:6 NIV
Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.
** Some households contain:
• No family government
• No order
• No subordination
• No discipline
The children are kept under no restraint, but are allowed to do what they like. Their faults are intentionally unnoticed and unpunished, and their corruptions allowed to grow wild and headstrong; until, in fact, the whole family becomes utterly lawless, rebellious against parental authority, and grievous to all around them!
Overindulgence of children is awfully common, and continually making shocking ravages in human character. It is a system of great cruelty to the children, to the parents themselves, and to society. This practice proceeds from various causes; in some instances, from a perverted and intentional sentimentalism; in others, from absolute indolence, and a regard to present ease, which leads the silly mother to adopt any means of coaxing, and yielding, and bribing simply to keep the "young rebels" quiet for the time!
It is not uncommon for parents to treat the first acts of infantile rebellion rather as accidents to be smiled at, than as sins to be disciplined. "O," says the mother, "it is only play, he will know better soon. He does not mean any harm. I cannot discipline him." Lack of parental discipline, from whatever cause it proceeds, it is in the highest degree injurious to the character of the children! <J101>
Proverbs 29:17 NIV
[17] Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.
Proverbs 19:18 NIV
[18] Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.
** The average church today has simply lost its way; instead of the church being like half-time in the locker room of a competitive game with the coach giving a pep talk to the players and altering strategy to help battle-wearied participants in the weekly battle, the church today is more like a resting place asking the players why they’re even in the game in the first place…? <D40>
** Every person ever born, has God's imprint upon them because all humans were made in His image. Therefore, the truth God puts into each person comes in the form of our conscience which is knowing basic right and wrong. This basic knowledge has to either be suppressed by the individual or corrupted by that society in order to ignore this divine truth. <G70>
Reality:
• The bodies God gave us are sacred and should be treated with dignity and respect
• God formed each of us in His image and has a purpose for us
• Believers reflect God to the extent they live for Him <H85>
• As a Christian I am to help others see their God-given potential, not tell them I accept their sinful ways
Genesis 1:26 NIV
[26] Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
Psalm 139:13-16 NIV
[13] For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. [14] I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. [15] My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. [16] Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Zechariah 12:1b NIV
[1] The Lord, who stretches out the heavens, who lays the foundation of the earth, and who forms the human spirit within a person
** Strength of the young and old
Proverbs 20:29 NIV
[29] The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.
** God made male and female and gave us unique qualities to exhibit
• For instance, as image-bearers of God, men are to exhibit tough discipline with an altruistic (loving) motive
• As it turns out, men are attacked in today’s society if this is attempted because society doesn’t want to be held accountable for anything
• Don’t buy into society’s label of ‘male toxicity’ because we are made in His image
• Men are to exhibit their God-given male character, as women are to exhibit the qualities given them
• Trouble is, society has corrupted and confused these God-given qualities, so we end up trying to survive in a dysfunctional society <D40>
Hebrews 12:5-6 NIV
[5] And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, [6] because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
Proverbs 3:11-12 NIV
[11] My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, [12] because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.
Proverbs 13:24 NIV
[24] Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.
Proverbs 19:18 NIV
[18] Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.
Revelation 3:19 NIV
[19] Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.
Psalm 94:12 NIV
[12] Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law
** God gives humans earthly resources to use for our benefit
• Contrary to the message we are being force-fed today via the ‘green movement’
• God gives us fossil fuels, for example, to utilize as we see fit because He has given us dominion or authority over the earth <H86>
• For sure, we are to take care of the resources God gave us, but thinking we control the future is an affront to God!
• Remember: GOD controls the earth, not humans, so man cannot destroy the earth without God’s permission any more than he can “save the planet” contrary to His will
Genesis 1:28 NIV
[28] God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground. ”
Exodus 23:10-11 NIV
[10] “For six years you are to sow your fields and harvest the crops, [11] but during the seventh year let the land lie unplowed and unused. Then the poor among your people may get food from it, and the wild animals may eat what is left. Do the same with your vineyard and your olive grove.
** You cannot appease, envy or support the wicked for then the innocent suffer
Proverbs 18:5 NIV
[5] It is not good to be partial to the wicked and so deprive the innocent of justice.
Proverbs 23:17 NIV
[17] Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.
Proverbs 25:26 NIV
[26] Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked.
** It is imperative to fulfill a pledge, or you will pay the cost of breaking the promise
Proverbs 22:26-27 NIV
[26] Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; [27] if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.
Proverbs 27:13 NIV
[13] Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if it is done for an outsider.
** God created human beings and desires to spend eternity with them!
Revelation 21:3 NIV
[3] And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.
** A genuine brother in the Lord will seek out accountability for himself and be willing to hold another brother in the Lord accountable; intellectual and theological discussion is joy for those with sharp minds
Proverbs 27:17 NIV
[17] As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
** Do not mistreat the innocent and poor, for God will exact justice on their behalf
Proverbs 17:26 NIV
[26] If imposing a fine on the innocent is not good, surely to flog honest officials is not right
Proverbs 22:22-23 NIV
[22] Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, [23] for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life.
Proverbs 27:3-4 NIV
[3] Stone is heavy and sand a burden, but a fool's provocation is heavier than both. [4] Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?
Proverbs 28:24 NIV
[24] Whoever robs their father or mother and says, “It's not wrong,” is partner to one who destroys.
** ChristIans are expected to encourage and instruct one another in the ways of the Lord
Romans 15:14 NIV
[14] I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.
** The ‘missed calling’ of young Samuel could be attributed to the lack of knowing Scripture and its application
1 Samuel 3:1 NIV
[1] The boy Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli. In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.
Amos 8:11-12 NIV
[11] “The days are coming,” declares the Sovereign Lord, “when I will send a famine through the land---not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord. [12] People will stagger from sea to sea and wander from north to east, searching for the word of the Lord, but they will not find it.
• This lack of God’s Word leads to lawless rebellion
• In contrast, we learn of the joy and glory possible from a lawful society <M130>
Exodus 32:25 NIV
[25] Moses saw that the people were running wild and that Aaron had let them get out of control and so become a laughingstock to their enemies.
Proverbs 28:14 NIV
[14] Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble.
** Nimrod was the first warrior/leader who set up a kingdom and led the construction of the Tower of Babel; the concept of man trying to attain superiority over or equity with God appears throughout Scripture, which will end with the Antichrist
Genesis 10:8-10 NIV
[8] Cush was the father of Nimrod, who became a mighty warrior on the earth. [9] He was a mighty hunter before the Lord; that is why it is said, “Like Nimrod, a mighty hunter before the Lord.” [10] The first centers of his kingdom were Babylon, Uruk, Akkad and Kalneh, in Shinar.
God was not pleased with their intent to create a single nation via the building of the tower, so He confused their language; God did not destroy their plan but merely postponed it, for man will continue to try to do the same into the end times with the resurgence of Babylon <L123>
Genesis 11:6-7 NIV
[6] The Lord said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. [7] Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.”
** Unwholesome talk is unsubstantiated talk
• While it is not sin to discuss what others are doing against God’s law as long as it can be substantiated
• Talk that is malicious against another — designed to tear another down — is unwholesome and must be avoided
• There is remedy when we grieve the Holy Spirit: abstain from committing the known sin and confess sin that has been committed <H86>
Ephesians 4:25-29 NIV
[25] Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. [26] “In your anger do not sin” : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, [27] and do not give the devil a foothold. [28] Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. [29] Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
1 John 3:7-10 NIV
[7] Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. [8] The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. [9] No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. [10] This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God's child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.
1 John 1:9 NIV
[9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
** Accept one another, as Christ accepts us, to bring ultimate praise to God
Romans 15:7 NIV
[7] Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
** A leader who does not rule in righteousness, according to God’s law, is like a surgeon who is contaminated
2 Samuel 23:3b KJV
[3] He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.
• We are under judgment by God because our nation, its leaders and even some ‘pastors’ do not love God
• The ONLY hope we have as a people and nation is to turn to God in repentance and He will lead us out of our chaotic evil and existence <M130>
1 Corinthians 16:22 NIV
[22] If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Come, Lord !
Psalm 81:10-16 NIV
[10] I am the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt. Open wide your mouth and I will fill it. [11] “But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me. [12] So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices. [13] “If my people would only listen to me, if Israel would only follow my ways, [14] how quickly I would subdue their enemies and turn my hand against their foes! [15] Those who hate the Lord would cringe before him, and their punishment would last forever. [16] But you would be fed with the finest of wheat; with honey from the rock I would satisfy you.”
** Godless man tries to control every aspect of his life, including seeding the clouds to induce rain, rather than acknowledging our Creator and asking Him to provide rain when needed
Zechariah 10:1 NIV
[1] Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime;
it is the Lord who sends the thunderstorms. He gives showers of rain to all people, and plants of the field to everyone.
** God does not like to be mocked but rather He desires our words and actions align with Him; if we don’t align with God then we support the evil doers that prosper around us
Malachi 3:13-15 NIV
[13] “You have spoken arrogantly against me,” says the Lord. “Yet you ask, 'What have we said against you?' [14] “You have said, 'It is futile to serve God. What do we gain by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the Lord Almighty? [15] But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly evildoers prosper, and even when they put God to the test, they get away with it.' ”
** Only one leper returned to give God thanks while nine continued on their way unmindful, ungrateful. And why was that?
Perhaps they knew the danger of committing themselves to Jesus, they knew that He was narrowly watched and suspected; they knew that even to receive a cure from Him was in itself an offense to many. My Lord, I seek grace not to be so cowardly!
Perhaps they were afraid that now the Master would have a claim upon them and would begin to press that claim. He who had given them their health, might demand their loyalty; and they were not ready to yield it. My Lord, I would be more [dedicated] than they!
Perhaps they were seized with the wish to mix with the world, to go back to its affairs, to play their part in its business. They were impatient of delays which detained them from the promotion of their own interests. My Lord, I would learn to hate such selfishness!
Perhaps they thought that they had only got what was their due. They thought that the loathsome disease was an injustice and a grievance, and health was their right, and they need not be profoundly grateful. Lord, teach me to watch against this self-conceit and pride!
Perhaps they told themselves that their Benefactor was no longer necessary to them. The pressure of urgent need was past, and its disappearance makes a difference. My lord, let me never forget Your untold benefits!
There is no darker sin than ingratitude! I entreat You Lord Jesus, to save me from it. <S182>
Luke 17:17 NIV
[17] Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?
** Our ability to recognize our responsibility here on earth is the first step towards accessing these congratulatory words of Christ. The mandate of the Great Commission is not an option to be considered by Christians, it is a command that must be obeyed. Embracing the mandate of “go ye” will inevitably help us to preach the Gospel and disciple converts as Christ commanded us. Obedience to the Word of God is non-negotiable.
The greatest mistake that we can make as Christians is for us to be oblivious to the fact that we will give an account of our stewardship here on earth. Developing accountability consciousness will guide us and help us rein in our fleshly excesses. It will help us to always recognize when we are deviating from God’s calling in our lives. We can easily go back to God for help when deviations and weaknesses are identified. We should also remember that we will give an account for everything God has given to us including our talents and resources.
In getting prepared to hear Jesus say “well done my good and faithful servants” to us, all hands must be on deck, and everyone must contribute his quota by effectively carrying out this assignment.
Some are given the responsibility to go to the mission fields, some are given the responsibility to support the goers with resources, while some are saddled with the responsibility to pray for the success of missionary work. If we are all carrying out these assignments faithfully, we can all rest assured that we are carrying out Jesus’ mission for our lives. <A13>
Matthew 25:19-21 NIV
[19] “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. [20] The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. 'Master,' he said, 'you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.' [21] “His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'
** The Jews asking the prophet Zechariah about continuing the fast reminds us to not only consult His Word and ministers of God when inquiring of God’s will, but to seek His direction by fervent prayer
We learn from Zechariah that God hates hypocrisy, caring about the condition of the heart and motive of the individual to please God than about outward appearances <H83>
Zechariah 7:4-6 NIV
[4] Then the word of the Lord Almighty came to me: [5] “Ask all the people of the land and the priests, 'When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months for the past seventy years, was it really for me that you fasted? [6] And when you were eating and drinking, were you not just feasting for yourselves?
** It’s one thing to ask of God what He desires, but another thing to listen and obey with ‘pliable hearts’
Zechariah 7:8-12 NIV
[8] And the word of the Lord came again to Zechariah: [9] “This is what the Lord Almighty said: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. [10] Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.' [11] “But they refused to pay attention; stubbornly they turned their backs and covered their ears. [12] They made their hearts as hard as flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the Lord Almighty had sent by his Spirit through the earlier prophets. So the Lord Almighty was very angry.
** Jesus commanded us not to give to others to gain recognition, respect or reward, but to give out of a servant's heart, with a love for others and desire to obey God
Matthew 6:1-4 NIV
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. [2] “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. [3] But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, [4] so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
** God’s response to our prayer requests depend on whether our motive is to truly glorify God through the situation and obey His direction
Zechariah 7:13 NIV
[13] “ 'When I called, they did not listen; so when they called, I would not listen,' says the Lord Almighty.
** It is not a mere outward ritual which God asks from me.
Isaiah 1:13-14 NIV
[13] Stop bringing meaningless offerings! Your incense is detestable to me. New Moons, Sabbaths and convocations---I cannot bear your worthless assemblies. [14] Your New Moon feasts and your appointed festivals I hate with all my being. They have become a burden to me; I am weary of bearing them.
God desires my ADORATION, a:
• Sense of His solemn and consummate holiness
• Bowing low in heart and mind before the radiance of His majesty
• Realizing of His infinite condescension in suffering and dying for me
• I cannot be too reverent when I am face to face with Him
Hebrews 1:3 NIV
[3] The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
God desires my CONFESSION, a:
• Feeling of the evil of my doings, not superficial, but deep and penetrating
• Abhorring of myself and a repentance in dust and ashes
• Cry from the depths, "In me dwells no good thing!"
• I have need to understand more vividly, more humbly the exceeding sinfulness of sin
Romans 7:18 NIV
[18] For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.
God desires my PETITIONS, a:
• Sincere pouring out of my soul's desires
• Taking fast hold of God's almighty strength
• Clinging with both hands earnestly to the Rock of Ages!
• Simply, naturally, explicitly, whole-heartedly — let me [unburden] my necessities to Him, that He may answer them according to His wise and holy will
Psalm 105:3-4 NIV
[3] Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. [4] Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
God desires my THANKSGIVING, a:
• Thanksgiving which is thanks-living also
• Humble ceasing to do evil and a patient learning to do well
• Glad and grateful obedience
• Bondslave's vow, "I love my Master — I will not go out free!"
• Jesus Christ asks all, from the innermost pulsation of conscious being — to the most tangible outworks of my life!
Exodus 21:5-6 NIV
[5] “But if the servant declares, 'I love my master and my wife and children and do not want to go free,' [6] then his master must take him before the judges. He shall take him to the door or the doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he will be his servant for life.
Such is the service my God will welcome — my God who hates all meaningless offerings and who is weary with mere ritualism and formality. <S182>
** The 8th vision of Zechariah was to confirm to the Jews that, even though they were weak they remained strong when relying on God, thus encouraging them in their faith and dependence on God
Zechariah 6:1,5 NIV
[1] I looked up again, and there before me were four chariots coming out from between two mountains---mountains of bronze. [5] The angel answered me, “These are the four spirits of heaven, going out from standing in the presence of the Lord of the whole world.
** Christ did not mean that I am to withdraw and seclude myself from society. He did not do so Himself. He came and dwelt with sinners, and He bids me to walk in His footsteps. I am to live in the world, as a holy child of God.
Nor does He wish me to moralize on the defects and errors of others. He has no desire that I should be fault-finding, critical, or harsh. I may be unsparing in judging myself; but in my thoughts and words regarding others, there must be all considerateness, all forbearance, all patience and hope.
Not being ‘of the world’ entails:
• That I am not to consider myself to be at home in this world
• That every day I must show myself to be a citizen of Heaven
• That there must be an easily-perceived difference between me and those who do not travel beyond the present realm of things.
• That, however friendly I am with others, I must hold aloof from their sinful habits and recreations <S182>
John 17:16 NIV
[16] They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.
** Paul was a 50+ year old who walked 4800 km on his missionary journeys, which included:
• Athens - intellectual capital
• Ephesus - center of emperor worship
• Corinth - commercial capital and center of immorality
• The morally depraved Corinthians were not into discussion and debate as those in Athens
• The churches and struggles they faced in Corinth weighed heavily on Paul and thus became a desired destination for him
Acts 18:1 NIV
[1] After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth.
1 Corinthians 5:1-2 NIV
[1] It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that even pagans do not tolerate: A man is sleeping with his father's wife. [2] And you are proud! Shouldn't you rather have gone into mourning and have put out of your fellowship the man who has been doing this?
** Aquila and Priscilla were an hospitable couple who opened their home and used God’s provisions for the benefit of others
Acts 18:18-19 NIV
[18] Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken. [19] They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.
** Being temperate does not always mean you continue beating your head against a wall trying to get others to understand the Truth
• If others refuse to listen then ‘move on’ and do not cast pearls before swine <D40>
• At the same time, we are not to ‘lose it’ when confronting others so that our message is lost because of our actions
• We can remain strong in our conviction without always having to be nice
Titus 2:2 NIV
[2] Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.
Matthew 7:6 NIV
[6] “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.
** Woe to those who are complacent, thinking that God is not involved in our lives or will respond based on how we conduct ourselves
Zephaniah 1:12-13 NIV
[12] At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps and punish those who are complacent, who are like wine left on its dregs, who think, 'The Lord will do nothing, either good or bad.' [13] Their wealth will be plundered, their houses demolished. Though they build houses, they will not live in them; though they plant vineyards, they will not drink the wine.”
** God values and takes pleasure in the heart of man, not the surface valuations common to worldly thinking
Psalm 147:10-11 NIV
[10] His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; [11] the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
** God wants us to live in relationship where love and mercy prevails
Jonah 4:10-11 NIV
[10] But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. [11] And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left---and also many animals?”
** Our decisions have consequences, just as Jonah found out when he forced the sailors to act and be thrown overboard
Jonah 1:12,15,17 NIV
[12] “Pick me up and throw me into the sea,” he replied, “and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you.” [15] Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. [17] Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.
** The end times will be marked by a fake church that denounces the Bible more and more
• We already see pastors cherry-picking passages from the Bible their audience wants to hear, rather than focusing on the WHOLE counsel of God
• There must be an understanding of eschatology and concentrated focus on the salvation gospel, not just a ‘green social gospel’ that fits with the world’s agenda
2 Timothy 3:1,5 NIV
[1] But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. [5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.
Revelation 3:15-16 NIV
[15] I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! [16] So, because you are lukewarm---neither hot nor cold---I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
Matthew 7:21-23 NIV
[21] “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' [23] Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
** As Christians in these end days, we are called to ‘occupy’ until Jesus returns. Sure, our ultimate hope is in the return of Christ but we are still to live and operate in our world.
Being part of the Restraining Force against evil involves pushing back (even politically) against what Satan is trying to push on us, as well as leading others to Christ and making sure non-believers understand the tenants of salvation along with the reason for our actions.
To those who say Christians should not get involved and simply obey the government at all times in order to ‘be a good witness’, we need to be encouraged by the multitude of God’s people in His Word who bucked the system and paid a price:
• Daniel (thrown into the lion’s den)
• Moses (standing before Pharaoh)
• Paul (imprisoned)
• Ruth (risking life)
• prophets (ridiculed)
• Christ (who stood before Pilate)
• disciples (many killed), etc
Therefore, being a good disciple in these days involves BOTH pushing back and helping lead others to Christ; one typically involves or spurs the other!
Acts 5:41-42 NIV
[41] The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. [42] Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.
Romans 5:1-5 NIV
[1] Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, [2] through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. [3] Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; [4] perseverance, character; and character, hope. [5] And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Romans 8:17-18 NIV
[17] Now if we are children, then we are heirs---heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. [18] I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Philippians 1:29 NIV
[29] For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him
Psalm 116:15 NIV
[15] Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.
2 Timothy 1:8 NIV
[8] So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.
1 Peter 2:20-21 NIV
[20] But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. [21] To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
** If we are to serve Jesus, we must have a sense of mission as well as a message <R1795>
• There are people who are ready to come to the Lord and need to hear the gospel message
• As the 72 ministered, they were to pray not simply that those who heard would believe but they would become workers; the goal is multiplication
• We are to provide the message despite the inconvenience, potential dangers and no assurance our efforts will have a positive result
• While fulfilling this command, trust in the Lord and He will protect and guide as needed!
Luke 10:2-3 NIV
[2] He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. [3] Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.
Luke 10:9 NIV
[9] Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’
Luke 10:16 NIV
[16] “Whoever listens to you listens to me; whoever rejects you rejects me; but whoever rejects me rejects him who sent me.”
Proverbs 3:21-23,25-26 NIV
[21] My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; [22] they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. [23] Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. [25] Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, [26] for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.
** We live in a society where people puff themselves up in their brokenness and victimhood — it’s ’hip’ to be a victim instead of striving to be strong and helping others; shouldn’t our motivation be to emulate Christ, to become stronger and sacrifice for others as Christ did for us?
There are few leaders at every level — from the job site to government — who are willing to buck this societal trend but would rather play in their own sandbox; hence, there are few, if any, leaders we end up respecting
The church has abdicated itself to the welfare system and it’s members don’t need to get involved to help their neighbor — they simply write another check to another charity or figure the government will take care of the situation; hence, helpful relationships are not established and victims end up milking a system without personal accountability <E58>
1 Peter 5:10 NIV
[10] And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
1 Timothy 6:9-10 NIV
[9] Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. [10] For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
Luke 9:23-24 NIV
[23] Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. [24] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.
** Paul provides a beautiful image of believers coming together with a common goal of ‘building a structure’ where God can reside and interact with its residents
Ephesians 2:19-22 NIV
[19] Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household, [20] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. [21] In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. [22] And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
** God didn’t care if Amos was an ordinary shepherd who wondered whether he could do what God was commanding Him; God wanted Amos to do what He commanded anyway — which he did
Amos 7:14-15 NIV
[14] Amos answered Amaziah, “I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. [15] But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, 'Go, prophesy to my people Israel.'
** Although Nehemiah was neither a prophet or priest, he had a deep sense of Jerusalem’s significance to God and was greatly distressed that affairs there had not advanced the cause and glory of God <M130>
• The Holy City was in disrepair and Nehemiah’s mission was to retore the city that God had chosen to represent His name
• Nehemiah’s concern for the state of the city of Jerusalem was in fact concern for the glory of God <R1795>
Nehemiah 1:2-4 NIV
[2] Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. [3] They said to me, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire. ” [4] When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven
** During the days of Malachi, the righteous knew that God’s judgment was coming and were understandably concerned how it would affect them; God assured the righteous He will preserve and take care of them! <M130>
Malachi 3:16-18 NIV
[16] Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name. [17] “On the day when I act,” says the Lord Almighty, “they will be my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as a father has compassion and spares his son who serves him. [18] And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.
** God sets a plumb line for us and we will gain great reward or suffer consequences depending on our obedience to it
Amos 7:7-8 NIV
[7] This is what he showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in his hand. [8] And the Lord asked me, “What do you see, Amos? ” “A plumb line, ” I replied. Then the Lord said, “Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer.
** The doctrine which is according to godliness at once defines the nature of Divine doctrine, intimating that its design or end is to inculcate a right temper of mind and deportment of life — it is pure and purifying. It is very much more than a series of intellectual truths intended for the instructing of our brains.
The objects which are revealed in Scripture are not bare abstractions which are to be accepted as true, nor even sublime and lofty concepts to be admired — they are to have a powerful effect upon our daily walk. There is no doctrine revealed in Scripture for a merely speculative knowledge, but all is to exert a powerful influence upon conduct. God's design in all that He has revealed to us, is to the purifying of our affections and the transforming of our characters.
It is absurd to conclude that if my creed is sound, then it matters little how I live. Thus it is possible to deny the Faith by conduct as well as by words. A neglect of performing our duty is as real a repudiation of the Truth, as is an open renunciation of it!
The doctrine of grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts and to live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world (Titus 2:11, 12). By far the greater part of the doctrine taught by Christ consisted not of the explication of mysteries but rather that which corrected men's lusts and reformed their lives. Everything in Scripture has in view the promotion of holiness. <P161>
1 Timothy 6:3 NIV
[3] If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching,
Titus 1:1 NIV
[1] Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness
Titus 2:11-12 NIV
[11] For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age
** God utters strong language against religious activity solely based on ritual, where people ‘act out’ their religion but their heart is not tuned to God
Amos 5:21-23 NIV
[21] “I hate, I despise your religious festivals; your assemblies are a stench to me. [22] Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. Though you bring choice fellowship offerings, I will have no regard for them. [23] Away with the noise of your songs! I will not listen to the music of your harps.
** Western societies and even some churches take what God identifies as ‘binary’ — black or white issues such as gender — and makes them non-binary or complex, then takes complex issues and tries to force the population to accept them as binary — you must condone transgender and LGBT thought; this is the natural thought process of sinners but followers of Christ who are saved and called to a Higher purpose need to adhere to what God says, not man <D40>
** Believers in God were not to become complacent in their devotion to Him; likewise those who are saved through Christ in today’s Church are to continue working out their salvation
Amos 6:1 NIV
[1] Woe to you who are complacent in Zion,
and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria, you notable men of the foremost nation, to whom the people of Israel come!
Philippians 2:12 NIV
[12] Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed---not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence---continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling
** There is a cost to the believer’s complacency, living life without regard to God and placing Him low on the priority list
Amos 6:1,3-7 NIV
[1] Woe to you who are complacent in Zion,
and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria, you notable men of the foremost nation, to whom the people of Israel come! [3] You put off the day of disaster and bring near a reign of terror. [4] You lie on beds adorned with ivory and lounge on your couches. You dine on choice lambs and fattened calves. [5] You strum away on your harps like David and improvise on musical instruments. [6] You drink wine by the bowlful and use the finest lotions, but you do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph. [7] Therefore you will be among the first to go into exile; your feasting and lounging will end.
** Satan loves nothing better than when well-intentioned Christians voluntarily draw up their own circular firing squad and start shooting blindly at each other.
Aside from the schemes of the devil in his efforts to derail the believer, there are some internal cautions with our prophetic burden (if I can put it that way). In contrast to the weight of the burden of knowing and warning of those things to come, are the calluses we develop in handling this prophetic knowledge.
We have all the verses bookmarked, the order of events committed to memory, and our talking points so well-rehearsed that we sometimes lose sight of just how horrific things will actually become. Put another way, even for those of us who teach and expound upon Bible prophecy so many times that the sheer horror of what’s to come for those left behind, sometimes gets lost in the repeated telling. <G70>
** Just because life is getting difficult, we are not to shrink back but rather continue in our work for the Lord in order to see Him accomplish amazing things — including people being saved — under the banner of Christ! <K114>
Daniel 11:32 NIV
[32] With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.
** God cares about the poor and those in need
Psalm 140:12 NIV
[12] I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy.
** God has a purpose for our life; even beyond the miracle of life, God designed us with purpose! <C31> (Nov 2016)
Psalm 139:16 NIV
[16] Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Psalm 31:15 NIV
[15] My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me.
• God knows everything we will do with our life, even before one of them started
• He has a perfect plan but does not force it on us; God leaves the acceptance and obedience of this plan to us
• God takes care to record our names in His book
• Our names are recorded by our faith in Jesus; those who believe in God and live by His design are written with permanent ink
• All of this reflects that God cares about what we do; He actually cares about what we do and how we respond to Him
• Our lives are not left up to chance!
Do you have a sense of purpose in your life?
• Ask God to guide you as He wants and give you the desire to do what He wants
** The law set a minimum amount or ‘special vow’ that the Israelites were to contribute to support ministers <R1795>
• Each individual had the privilege of making a special vow to the Lord, giving anything he possessed including himself, one of his family, animal, house, land, etc
• Everything we own is held in trust and, when required, must be made available to the Lord
Leviticus 27:1-2 NIV
[1] The Lord said to Moses, [2] “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'If anyone makes a special vow to dedicate a person to the Lord by giving the equivalent value,
** Blessings to those who contribute to the house of the Lord — both leaders and attendees
Psalm 134:1 NIV
[1] Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord who minister by night in the house of the Lord.
Psalm 134:3 NIV
[3] May the Lord bless you from Zion, he who is the Maker of heaven and earth.
** The author of Psalm 149 calls the reader to praise God in music and dance because He has chosen His people and helped them to victory
Psalm 149:1-3 NIV
[1] Praise the Lord. Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of his faithful people. [2] Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in their King. [3] Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with timbrel and harp.
Psalm 98:1,4-6 NIV
[1] Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. [4] Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; [5] make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, [6] with trumpets and the blast of the ram's horn---shout for joy before the Lord, the King.
** It is good for us — for our honor, comfort and delight — to live in unity with our Christian brothers and sisters; the pleasantness of this is likened to the anointing of oil, which is the fruit of the Holy Spirit and proof of our union with Christ that adorns His gospel <H83>
Psalm 133:1-2 NIV
[1] How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity! [2] It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard, down on the collar of his robe.
** David embraced God's plan for his life similar to a weaned child who no longer cries for milk. David described being content in his soul and having outgrown the pursuit of achievement, for many others could do the job better!
Likewise, we find fulfillment when we embrace His purpose for our life. Ask yourself whether you are trying to reach beyond (too much) or do the bare minimum (too little) of what God wants for you? <C31> (Sep 2016)
Psalm 131:2 NIV
[2] But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content.
** David revealed his deepest feelings about what's going on in his heart and how God was responsible for his rise from shepherd to king
Giving attribute to God prevented David from becoming proud, with proper:
• Attitude (heart): he believed he was no better than anyone else
• Actions (eyes): treated others properly; the eyes are reflection of the soul
• Ambition: David did not seek greatness but only what God wanted him to do
Remember that pride can blind us to God's plan, so do an honest examination of your heart attitudes then do your best and leave the glory and results to God <C31> (Sep 2016)
Psalm 131:1 NIV
[1] My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me.
** Israel was looking for a warrior and looked to Assyria for help instead of looking to God; Hosea prophesied that Assyria would destroy her and she needed to repent
Hosea 5:13 NIV
[13] “When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah his sores, then Ephraim turned to Assyria, and sent to the great king for help. But he is not able to cure you, not able to heal your sores.
** Alliances with other nations, such as covenants with Assyria and presents to Egypt were “curses in disguise” to Hosea <C32>
Hosea 12:1 NIV
[1] 12 Ephraim feeds on the wind; he pursues the east wind all day and multiplies lies and violence. He makes a treaty with Assyria and sends olive oil to Egypt.
** That which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God, including:
• Pride
• Ambition
• Pleasures
• Amusements
in which we see thousands and tens of thousands engaged.
Whereas, such things as:
• Faith
• Hope
• Love
• Humility
• Brokenness of heart
• Tenderness of conscience
• Contrition of spirit
• Sorrow for sin
• Self-loathing
• Self-abasement
• Looking to Jesus
• Taking up the cross
• Denying one's self
• Walking in the strait and narrow path that leads to eternal life
are despised by all and by none so much as mere heady professors who have a name to live while dead. <P165>
Luke 16:15 NIV
[15] He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God's sight.
** Seven Principles of Christian Discipleship:
1. A supreme love for Jesus Christ
2. A denial of self
3. A deliberate choosing of the cross
4. A life spent in following Christ
5. A fervent love for all who belong to Christ
6. An unswerving commitment to His Word
7. A forsaking of all to follow Him <M143>
Luke 14:33 NIV
[33] In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
** The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation:
• no sinner is too vile
• no sins are too numerous
• no guilt is too black
• for its powerful efficacy!
This is proved by the conduct of Christ, in offering His mercy to such sinful characters; and by the death of Christ, which was for the chief of sinners. How rich His grace! How impartial His love!
Luke 5:27-28 NIV
[27] After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. “Follow me,” Jesus said to him, [28] and Levi got up, left everything and followed him.
The context contains an account of the grace and favor of Christ to a sinful and despised tax collector.
Matthew followed Christ, that is, he became His disciple. To follow Christ implies:
1. A knowledge of Christ and His truth. The design of preaching is to give the knowledge of Christ. No man can really follow the Redeemer, without some understanding of Him. This is the result of the Spirit's enlightening operations.
2. It implies dissatisfaction with a life of sin, and a conviction of the superior excellence of a holy life. This also is the result of the Spirit's enlightening operations.
3. It implies decision for Christ. The resolve of the heart to love Him and follow Him, "Lord, I am yours!"
4. It implies renunciation of everything that stands in competition with Christ. Matthew surrendered a lucrative employment, a good business, etc.
He "got up, left everything, and followed Him!" Just so, the sinner must surrender…
• his darling sins
• his impure pleasures
• his self-interest
• the world
• the creature, however dear, if it is a competitor with Christ
Mark 8:34-35 NIV
[34] Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. [35] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.
5. It implies dependence upon Christ's Sacrifice for acceptance with God, and for all needful blessings.
6. It implies prompt obedience to all Christ's commandments.
"Follow Me," Jesus said to him. And Levi got up, left everything and followed Him! <N153>
** Sola Scriptura people trust the Bible, and don’t trust the Bible in the hands of others <D40>
• Go to the primary source for yourself and don’t rely on the interpretation of others
• Refer to an approved Bible translation as your ‘plum line of truth’
• God’s Word and the Holy Spirit helps us discern our words and actions along with those of others
1 Corinthians 11:29 NIV
[29] For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.
Philippians 1:9-11 NIV
[9] And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, [10] so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, [11] filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ---to the glory and praise of God.
1 Corinthians 2:14-16 NIV
[14] The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. [15] The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments, [16] for, “Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
** The pagan food Daniel and others were offered was food for idols and to eat it would have indicated they recognized and honored these idols
• Instead, Daniel “purposed in his heart” not to compromise his commitment to God
Proverbs 4:23 NIV
[23] Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
Exodus 34:14-15 NIV
[14] Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. [15] “Be careful not to make a treaty with those who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves to their gods and sacrifice to them, they will invite you and you will eat their sacrifices.
• Also, foods that God prohibited were items that pagans consumed and offered to their idols
• Daniel took a stand against this, as did Moses, and the Psalmist, and Jesus <M130>
Daniel 1:12 NIV
[12] “Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.
Hebrews 11:24-26 NIV
[24] By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. [25] He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. [26] He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.
Psalm 119:115 NIV
[115] Away from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commands of my God!
Hebrews 7:26-27 NIV
[26] Such a high priest truly meets our need---one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. [27] Unlike the other high priests, [Jesus] does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.
** The world knows that we can discern what is going on in the world today and some will turn to us for interpretation; we can be a Daniel of today to let them know “we’re going down”
Daniel 5:14-16 NIV
[14] I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you and that you have insight, intelligence and outstanding wisdom. [15] The wise men and enchanters were brought before me to read this writing and tell me what it means, but they could not explain it. [16] Now I have heard that you are able to give interpretations and to solve difficult problems. If you can read this writing and tell me what it means, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”
Daniel 5:26-28 NIV
[26] “Here is what these words mean: Mene : God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end. [27] Tekel : You have been weighed on the scales and found wanting. [28] Peres : Your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.”
Daniel 5:30-31 NIV
[30] That very night Belshazzar, king of the Babylonians, was slain, [31] and Darius the Mede took over the kingdom, at the age of sixty-two.
** God hears our heart-felt cries for mercy, but how willing are we to adjust to His ways that may differ from our expectations?
Psalm 130:1-2 NIV
[1] Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord; [2] Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.
** Leaning on God often requires waiting, which enables us to mature in our relationship with Him while doing so
Psalm 130:5-6 NIV
[5] I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. [6] I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.
** The author of this Psalm understands that God is master of all and we, like slaves, are subject to Him
Psalm 123:2 NIV
[2] As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy.
** Why bother studying Bible prophecy? <T203>
• Because as true believers in Christ we are to look up where our Redemption lives and our future is known
• As we eagerly await His appearance in the end times, we must keep our eyes on Him
Philippians 3:14 NIV
[14] I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Psalm 121:1 NIV
[1] I lift up my eyes to the mountains---where does my help come from?
Isaiah 40:26 NIV
[26] Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.
Daniel 4:34 NIV
[34] At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation.
John 11:41 NIV
[41] So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.
** Praying for Jerusalem has always made sense, but especially now. That raises an important question. Why would God give a prayer request? If He’s telling us about it, then He clearly knows the need. Why doesn’t He just do the thing He is telling us to ask Him for? Why loop us in? If you follow that line of reasoning, you’ll soon ask why we should ever pray. In Matthew 6:8, Jesus said, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.”
Why pray? Pray so that God “will tell you great and mighty things.” Pray so that you will “not lose heart.” Most of all, pray because God says to pray. You don’t have to understand how something works to know and trust that it will. You don’t have to be an engineer or a mechanic to drive a car. You don’t have to be an electrician to flip on a light switch.
But on the question of why pray when God already knows the need, there seems to be an obvious answer. He wants to include us in the conversation. He wants us to be part of His plan.
Also, prayer shapes us. The instruction in Philippians 4:6, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything,” covers a lot of territory. Should you pray about a baseball game? If you’re tempted to worry about it, then you should pray about it. The beauty of such prayer is that it will change your attitude about the game. Taking matters before God — even seemingly trivial things — changes your priorities. In the light of His presence, you’ll begin to see what’s really important. You will find yourself praying for everyone’s safety — your team and the other team. You’ll pray that the Lord’s name will be honored, and His word go forth. You will pray for the opposing side as heartily as you pray for your own. Prayer will change things on the field. More important, it will change the tenor of your heart. Prayer helps sync your will with His will.
And so it is with prayer for Jerusalem. You do it out of obedience, but then you will find yourself doing it because your heart has changed. As you pray, you will begin to sense God’s heart for Jerusalem, her people, and His plan for the world. That plan in many ways centers on Jerusalem. God wants you to be a part of His great plan for the ages. Praying for Jerusalem brings you into His inner circle. <L124> (May 2021)
Psalm 122:6-9 NIV
[6] Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May those who love you be secure. [7] May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels. ” [8] For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “Peace be within you.” [9] For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity.
Jeremiah 33:3 NIV
[3] 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 NIV
[17] pray continually
Colossians 4:2 NIV
[2] Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Ephesians 6:18 NIV
[18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.
Luke 18:1 NIV
[1] Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.
** The Matt 7 ‘judging passage’ that is part of the Sermon on the Mount reveals HOW to judge others and not WHETHER to judge others; in fact, we are CALLED to judge and discern in order to determine wrong from right, false prophets, etc <K110>
But we must not hypocritically judge others with a prejudiced mind — looking at the outer appearance and not what is at the heart of the matter — for we will be held accountable by the same measure
Jesus was not advocating that Christians should not discern every situation but that we should not be hypocritical, holding others to a higher standard than we are willing to live <M130>
Matthew 7:1-2 NIV
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. [2] For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Matthew 7:12 NIV
So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
John 7:24 NIV
[24] Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.”
** Stop complaining to God and others about your difficult situation and circumstance! God has you exactly where He wants you for His purpose; all generations have been perverse and God has chosen YOU at this time to be a light for Him so do so rejoicing <M130>
Philippians 2:14-18 NIV
[14] Do everything without grumbling or arguing, [15] so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky [16] as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. [17] But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. [18] So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
Philippians 2:3-4 NIV
[3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
** Don’t ever fall for the enemy’s lie that you aren’t making any effort or are not of any use or value to God. That’s Satan’s way of shutting you up and shutting down your service to God. It’s what Satan wants. Don’t fall for his tactics!
It is never our words or our deeds that make the difference in people’s lives anyway. It is the powerful, active, living Word of the living God that has the power to change one’s eternal destiny. We are only the mouthpieces that spread His Word. We are the hands and feet that distribute it and the fingers that type and disseminate His Word. The Holy Spirit, through God’s Word, does the changing of people’s hearts, not us or what we say. We are merely His vessels. God doesn’t need us; He wants us. He who spoke atoms into existence, He who created all that exists from nothing does not need us. But because He loves us, He has gifted fallen humanity the honor of serving Him for our eternal good and for His matchless glory.
Don’t stop! We are not responsible for what others do with God’s message. That is on them. But we will be held to account for whether or not we remained faithful to what our Sovereign has placed us here to do.
We cannot go by our feelings. Our emotions and feelings are subjective, fickle, and are so easily manipulated and deceived. We go by what the Word of God has already told us. That is where we find what His will is. He has already given us everything we need to know to serve Him and to do His will, whatever He has called and placed us to do. Never trust your feelings or emotions because Satan can and does so easily deceive and manipulate us through them. Rely upon God’s already completed, always sufficient, permanently revealed Word. Everything we need to know, every answer we will ever need is already there. We just need to read, study, learn, and follow it.
I know you’re tired. We all are. I know you’re discouraged. We all are. I know your body is broken and giving out. The rest of the body/bride of Christ is failing in body too, including myself. Still, we cannot give in to the fiery darts or the relentless attacks of the Evil One – not this close to the finish line!
Hang in there! Keep spreading the only truth that can save men’s souls from Hell, then leave the results in Jesus’ nail-scarred hands. We are only the vessels. The power that changes eternal destinies lies solely with the Holy Spirit of God.
Never allow Satan to stop or sidetrack you from doing what God has called and placed you here to do. Even if you feel your part is insignificant, know that it is not. Nothing God has given us to do is insignificant in His plan. Even five loaves of bread and two little fish fed multitudes in the hands that created all things! Nothing is too small or insignificant in the Master’s hands! Keep spreading the gospel everywhere you can, including on social media if you’re on it. Keep on posting scripture. Keep encouraging the brethren. Keep praying for the body of Christ. Keep warning the lost. Keep fellowshipping, praising, and worshiping together with other believers, and keep on keeping on until Jesus calls us Home. Keep on going! <C396>
John 10:10 NIV
[10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
** It is not enough to hear and study God’s word, but to put what is written into practice; the Israelites in Ezekiel’s day listened to the prophet as entertainment but it did not impact their lives
Ezekiel 33:31-33 NIV
[31] My people come to you, as they usually do, and sit before you to hear your words, but they do not put them into practice. Their mouths speak of love, but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain. [32] Indeed, to them you are nothing more than one who sings love songs with a beautiful voice and plays an instrument well, for they hear your words but do not put them into practice. [33] “When all this comes true---and it surely will---then they will know that a prophet has been among them. ”
** Study and set an example of Christ-likeness to others
• Train yourselves to be godly
• A weight-lifter develops their ability to lift weight by lifting them
• A Christian develops their ability a godly life by making godly choices
• In order to grow spiritually, concentrate on acts which show your love for God and for others
• What we do for God, we do to others
• If we want to be used by God, set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity <R1795>
1 Timothy 4:11-12 NIV
Command and teach these things. [12] Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
1 Timothy 4:13 NIV
Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.
1 Timothy 4:15-16 NIV
Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. [16] Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
** [God will often work through you in the lives of those around you!]
My dear friend, I am very sorry about your accident but I am thankful that you were not hurt. Such catastrophes, as this may properly be called, have often been attended with dislocated or broken bones, a fractured skull, or instant death — so frail is man!
Often, when he thinks himself safe, and is dreaming of his own importance, as if he were a necessary part in the complicated movements of Divine Providence — he falls like grass before the scythe! And not by the hands of a giant, or the fangs of a tiger, but the smallest trifle is sufficient to destroy him!
For example: how many loose stones do we see in the road; it seems no great matter where they lie. Yet any one of them, by changing the direction of a wheel is sufficient to confound all the plans of this mighty creature! One stone stumbles him down; he falls with his head upon another — in that very moment all his future plans perish! But the Lord gave His angels charge over you; therefore you fell unhurt, and are still alive to praise and serve Him.
I see so much of the uncertainty of life, and how little I can either foresee or prevent what the next moment may bring forth that I would be a very great coward — afraid not only of riding in a coach but of walking across a room — if I was not in some degree enabled to confide in the Lord's protection!
I wish for you to think much of the Lord's governing providence. It extends to the minutest concerns. He rules and manages all things; but in so secret a way, that most people think that He does nothing. When, in reality — He does ALL! <N150>
Psalm 119:117 NIV
[117] Uphold me, and I will be delivered; I will always have regard for your decrees.
** Trade and merchandise are a blessing when followed in the fear of God and He allows us to use them; but when riches increase, men are apt to set their hearts upon them and forget God who gives power to obtain wealth <H83>
Ezekiel 28:1-2 NIV
[1] The word of the Lord came to me: [2] “Son of man , say to the ruler of Tyre, 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says:
“ 'In the pride of your heart you say, “I am a god; I sit on the throne of a god in the heart of the seas.” But you are a mere mortal and not a god, though you think you are as wise as a god.
Ezekiel 27:34-36 NIV
[34] Now you are shattered by the sea in the depths of the waters; your wares and all your company have gone down with you. [35] All who live in the coastlands are appalled at you; their kings shudder with horror and their faces are distorted with fear. [36] The merchants among the nations scoff at you; you have come to a horrible end and will be no more. ' ”
** It is necessary to read and obey the Bible, not just to know the will of God. If Scripture is not the practice of our life, it is nothing to us.
Its truths are to be applied. If we read the Beatitudes, we are to compare ourselves with their Divine requirements, and seek to be conformed to them. If we come upon a verse that rebukes any habit or sin of ours, we are immediately to make the needed amendment.
• We are to accept its promises, believe them and then act as believing them.
• We are to allow its comforts to enter our hearts and support us in sorrow.
There is nothing written in the Bible merely for ornament or beauty. Every word is practical! There is no truth in Scripture which has not some bearing upon actual living. When we come to it eager to know how to live, and ready to obey its precepts, we shall find it opening its inmost meaning to us! <M136>
John 14:15 NIV
[15] “If you love me, keep my commands.
John 13:17 NIV
[17] Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
** Those who want to call themselves disciples of Jesus must endure many hardships for we now go against the norms of the world; pastors certainly don’t preach on this very much these days
Hardships help prepare us for what God wants us to do, for they help:
• Refine us
• Purify us
• Strengthen us
• Ready us
“God comforts the afflicted, but also afflicts those who are comfortable. God can help us overcome the world in troubled times when we ask it of Him” <F60>
Acts 14:19-22 NIV
[19] Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. [20] But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe. [21] They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, [22] strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.
James 4:3-4 NIV
[3] When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. [4] You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
Psalm 34:19 NIV
[19] The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all
Psalm 119:67,71 NIV
[67] Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word. [71] It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.
John 16:33 NIV
[33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
** Today, with the innumerable number of deluded people around us, our job is to use each and every circumstance to plant a single seed of God's truth, trusting God may someday cause spiritual growth. In every situation God allows us as we live our lives on this planet, we should strive to have a Christ-based response in every answer we give. <P168>
1 Corinthians 3:6 NIV
[6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.
** God declares Himself to us in so many ways, if only we would pay attention <D40>, through:
• Physical manifestation of His presence through the birth of His Son Jesus; expressed through words in Christmas carols such as “O Come Emmanuel” (God with us)
• Communication embodiment of His presence through His eternal word, revealing His thoughts, desires, law/edicts, joys, workings through His people, prophecies, etc — full revelation of God revealed to the human race for thousands of years
• Revealing Himself through His people and continually the Holy Spirit; “God in them” inspiring practices such as hospitals, orphanages, healthcare — many of the things we take for granted today were established from Christian love and emulated by Christ Himself
Matthew 1:23 NIV
[23] “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).
Luke 7:16-17 NIV
[16] They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.” [17] This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country.
Romans 1:17 NIV
[17] For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed---a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Romans 16:26-27 NIV
[26] but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith--- [27] to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.
Ephesians 1:3 NIV
[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
2 John 1:3 NIV
[3] Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.
** Israel, often symbolized by a vine, had become useless and failing to do the very thing God set her apart to do — bear fruit; other trees can be used for construction but a fruitless vine is useless and has no value <M130>
Ezekiel 15:1-3 NIV
[1] The word of the Lord came to me: [2] “Son of man, how is the wood of a vine different from that of a branch from any of the trees in the forest? [3] Is wood ever taken from it to make anything useful? Do they make pegs from it to hang things on?
** God questioned the value of fruitless vines and burnt wood; the same can be said of the ineffectiveness of the people living in Jerusalem and how He would treat them as a result
Ezekiel 15:1-6 NIV
[1] The word of the Lord came to me: [2] “Son of man, how is the wood of a vine different from that of a branch from any of the trees in the forest? [3] Is wood ever taken from it to make anything useful? Do they make pegs from it to hang things on? [4] And after it is thrown on the fire as fuel and the fire burns both ends and chars the middle, is it then useful for anything? [5] If it was not useful for anything when it was whole, how much less can it be made into something useful when the fire has burned it and it is charred? [6] “Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: As I have given the wood of the vine among the trees of the forest as fuel for the fire, so will I treat the people living in Jerusalem.
** Unity of believers doesn’t mean everyone agreed on everything but they abided by the same mission statement — testifying to the risen Savior and living by His commands
• The ‘if’ in Phil 2:1 assumes the condition is already fulfilled and means ‘since’
• God already poured out His grace and asked His followers to take the step of obedience
• Paul was appealing to his friends in Philippi to commit to a more humble, caring lifestyle
Philippians 2:1-5 NIV
[1] Therefore [since you have] any encouragement from being united with Christ, [since you have] any comfort from his love, [since you have] any common sharing in the Spirit, [since you have] any tenderness and compassion, [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus <R1275>
Acts 4:32 NIV
[32] All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.
John 13:34-35 NIV
[34] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
** Whoever wants to be Jesus disciples must be willing to give up everything and follow Him, including not only depending on family; difficult to do in the ‘Me Generation’ that redefines truth to suit a person’s individual desires (gender, abortion, selfies, lying to promote, etc)
Note: it is easy to love ourselves which the prosperity gospel promotes but we need to focus on turning our attention to others as Christ commands in His Word <S187>
Luke 9:23-24 NIV
[23] Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. [24] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.
Luke 9:59-62 NIV
[59] He said to another man, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” [60] Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” [61] Still another said, “I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say goodbye to my family.” [62] Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.”
John 15:12-13 NIV
[12] My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. [13] Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.
Jeremiah 45:5 NIV
[5] Should you then seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life.' ”
** It is said of the great sculptor, Michael Angelo, that when at work he wore a little lamp fastened on his cap, in order that no shadow of himself might fall upon his work. Just so, we need to take care that no shadows of ourselves, of our pride, our ambition, our self-seeking shall fall upon our work for Christ. <M136>
• A flower blooms no more sweetly because it is gazed at by an admiring crowd. It would be just as lovely, if it grew in the depths of a great forest where no eye ever saw it.
• The stars look down with as much brilliancy into the desert, where no one looks up at them--as into the streets of the great city where thousands behold them.
• The sea breaks with as much majesty on an uninhabited shore--as where its waves kiss the feet of multitudes.
It is just so in all true Christian life and work. When one is doing any great thing, and shows by his attitude that he is conscious of it — more than half the greatness is gone from the performance. When a man knows that he is living a life that is very great in its service, when he is conscious that he is being noticed by others — much of the glory is gone from his life.
We should live just as sweetly and beautifully when no one is looking upon us to see our deed and praise our life, as when all the world is beholding. The eye of God is ever upon us, and it is His approval and commendation that we should always seek to deserve.
Matthew 6:1-4 NIV
[1] “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. [2] “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. [3] But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, [4] so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
** [The man from Jerusalem in the Luke passage] was JUST in all his dealings with men and DEVOUT in his dealings toward God. It takes both of these elements to make true religion.
Some people are just and not devout! They are scrupulously honest in all their dealings — and yet they never think of God, or of their duties to Him. They do not bow to Him in prayer, nor do they ever lift their hearts to Him in praise. They do not love Him. They confess no obligations to Him. Their whole religion simply is honesty toward their fellow-men while they utterly ignore God, their Creator and Redeemer, in Whom they live, from Whose grace every blessing in their lives flows, and upon Whom they are dependent every moment for breath and existence. It is readily seen, that such religion is no religion at all.
While we are just and honest in our transactions with men — it is to God that we owe the first and highest duties. We are His creatures; we are saved, if at all, by His grace; we owe to Him obedience, faith, love, honor, service. So we must be devout as well as just.
On the other hand, there are some people who profess to be devout but are not just! They attend [religious services], they sing and pray; and then they go out into the week-day world, and are hard, unjust, greedy, and oppressive! It is very evident that this kind of religion does not please God. He wants our praise and honor — but He wants us to honor Him by our lives and actions, as well as by our lips.
There are two tables of commandments; and the second table commandments are as binding as the first. We are to love God with all our heart (the first table), but we are also to love our neighbor as ourselves (the second table). While we are devout toward God, we are also to be honest, true, and unselfish toward men.
The two things must go together, and must never be torn asunder! <M136>
Luke 2:25 NIV
[25] Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.
Mark 12:28b-31 NIV
[28] One of the teachers of the law asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” [29] “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [30] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' [31] The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.”
** Look ahead to see if you will encounter evil and plan how to deal with it with God’s help; if you know you will be personally affected by it, then prepare now with a ‘Plan B’ <H86>
Proverbs 22:3 NIV
[3] The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.
** These were the earliest of a great and noble army of holy women — attached to Christ by deep, personal love, following and ministering unto Him.
In all the ages since, Christian women have shown similar devotion and constancy to Christ, and similar heroic love in serving Him. The record of women's ministry to Christ, is one of the brightest in all the world's history!
Women owe an incalculable debt to Christ. He has lifted them up from base thraldom and from degradation. Women have always been grateful too, and have served Christ with great devotion.
Women are found in every sickroom, bending over the sufferer with unwearying solicitude, with matchless tenderness ministering to bodily comfort, and pouring the warmth of affection upon feverish spirits. They are found in the wards of hospitals, and upon battlefields, moving like God's angels in blessed, loving ministry.
Faithful Christian mothers are following the Master and doing work which will shine forever in glorious luster! Faithful Christian Sunday school teachers are doing quiet service in lowly paths--which in God's sight, is nobler than that of many of earth's famous ones!
Everywhere, too, there is an open field for woman's ministry. Christ is no longer here in person to be served, as He was served by these women who followed Him from Galilee; but in His needy and suffering followers, He is ever present; and whoever will, may minister unto Him! For He said that in doing acts of kindness to the least of His people, we do them unto Him.
Much practical teaching is in this picture, which is here held up before every woman, inspiring her to wholeheartedly follow Christ. <M136>
Matthew 27:55 NIV
[55] Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs.
** In general, God calls us to be submissive and respectful — not exhibiting a pompous attitude — toward authority, unless they tell us to sin and go against what God desires of us <F64>
There are a numerous passive and active responses we can utilize as believers in Christ to those in authority who want to force us to sin against our conscience:
a) Pray for authorities (1Tim 2:1-2)
b) Model for authorities (1Peter 3:1-2)
c) Appeal to authorities when living in society that provides the means to do this (Moses before Pharaoh, Daniel concerning food, woman appealing to the unjust judge)
d) Confront authorities with the word of God (Nathan confronting King David, Daniel confronts King Nebuchadnezzar)
e) Defy authority (women refusing to kill baby boys, three men refusing to bow down to image of King Nebuchadnezzar)
f) Flee from ungodly authorities (like Paul fleeing from one place to another) being ready to bear the consequences
Americans are unique in their brazenness toward authority because they can confront without impunity (the Constitution is on their side) but most of church history did not enjoy this status; Paul was punished and thrown in prison often because he defied authority and lost his freedom while doing so <B292>
1 Timothy 2:1-2 NIV
[1] I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people--- [2] for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
1 Peter 3:1-2 NIV
[1] Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, [2] when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.
Daniel 1:8,11-16 NIV
[8] But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. [11] Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, [12] “Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. [13] Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.” [14] So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days. [15] At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. [16] So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead.
1 Chronicles 17:1-4,15 NIV
[1] After David was settled in his palace, he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of the covenant of the Lord is under a tent. ” [2] Nathan replied to David, “Whatever you have in mind, do it, for God is with you.” [3] But that night the word of God came to Nathan, saying: [4] “Go and tell my servant David, 'This is what the Lord says: You are not the one to build me a house to dwell in. [15] Nathan reported to David all the words of this entire revelation.
Daniel 3:4-6,12 NIV
[4] Then the herald loudly proclaimed, “Nations and peoples of every language, this is what you are commanded to do: [5] As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. [6] Whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace.” [12] But there are some Jews whom you have set over the affairs of the province of Babylon---Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego---who pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They neither serve your gods nor worship the image of gold you have set up.”
Acts 18:5-6 NIV
[5] When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. [6] But when they opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”
** God continues to give His servants strength to accomplish His tasks; the picture of the Holy Spirit helping Ezekiel to his feet is a beautiful visual to remind how God understands and will provide exactly what we need! <M130>
Ezekiel 2:1-2 NIV
[1] He said to me, “Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you. ” [2] As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me.
Ezekiel 11:5 NIV
[5] Then the Spirit of the Lord came on me, and he told me to say: “This is what the Lord says: That is what you are saying, you leaders in Israel, but I know what is going through your mind.
Ezekiel 37:1 NIV
[1] The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones.
Numbers 24:2 NIV
[2] When Balaam looked out and saw Israel encamped tribe by tribe, the Spirit of God came on him
Judges 6:34 NIV
[34] Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Gideon, and he blew a trumpet, summoning the Abiezrites to follow him.
Luke 4:16-19 NIV
[16] He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, [17] and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: [18] “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, [19] to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”
** A godly man is a lover of the Word of God. Christ is the fountain of living water, the Word is the golden pipe through which it runs!
A godly man diligently reads the Word of God. The noble Bereans "searched the Scriptures daily" (Acts 17:11). Apollos was mighty in the Scriptures (Acts 18:24). The Word is the field where the Pearl of Great Price is hidden. How we should dig for this pearl! A godly man's heart is the library to hold the Word of God; it dwells richly in him (Colossians 3:16). By diligent conversing with Scripture, we may carry a Bible in our heads!
A godly man frequently meditates on the Word of God. "Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long." (Psalm 119:97). A pious soul meditates on the truth and holiness of the Word. He not only has a few transient thoughts, but leaves his mind steeping in the Scripture. By meditation, he sucks honey from this sweet flower, and ruminates on holy truths in his mind.
A godly man delights in the Word of God. It is his recreation. Never did a man take such delight in a dish that he loved, as the prophet did in the Word. And indeed, how can a saint choose but take great pleasure in the Word? All of his eternal hopes are contained in it. Does not a son take pleasure in reading his father's will and testament, in which he bequeaths his estate to him? "I delight in your commands because I love them! (Psalm 119:47)
Jeremiah 15:16 NIV
[16] When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.
A godly man hides the Word of God. "Your word have I hidden in my heart" (Psalm 119:11) — as one hides a treasure so that it should not be stolen. The Word is the jewel; the heart is the cabinet where it must be locked up. Many hide the Word in their memory but not in their heart. And why would David enclose the Word in his heart? "That I might be kept from sinning against You." As a man would carry an antidote about him when he comes near an infected place, so a godly man carries the Word in his heart as a spiritual antidote to preserve him from the infection of sin. Why have so many been poisoned with error, others with moral vice — because they have not hidden the Word as a holy antidote in their heart!
Do we love the Word?
• When we need direction, do we consult this sacred oracle?
• When we find corruptions strong, do we make use of this "sword of the Spirit" to hew them down?
• When we are disconsolate, do we go to this bottle of the water of life for comfort?
Then we are lovers of the Word! <W210>
Psalm 119:127 NIV
[127] Because I love your commands more than gold, more than pure gold
Psalm 119:97 NIV
[97] Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.
Psalm 19:7-11 NIV
[7] The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. [8] The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. [9] The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. [10] They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. [11] By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
** How do we know what God expects of our behavior? Study Scripture. Don’t wait for your preacher to do a study on sin. Study what Scripture says and don’t twist it’s meaning to show your chosen sin as acceptable.
The Bereans were commended for searching Scripture to be sure what Paul was preaching was God's truth. By the way, it was Old Testament Scripture which they searched. Ultimately, you will be accountable for your own sin, and ignorance isn’t an excuse. The whole Bible, from Genesis through Revelation, is God’s word. Men held the writing instruments, but they wrote according to the direction of the Holy Spirit.
Put away the self-help books and study God’s Holy Bible. That’s how we know God’s truth. We study what Scripture says, then conform to it, rather than making it conform to us. We can all find sins in our life that need to be corrected. <G73>
2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV
[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, [17] so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work
** Christians need to take a look at our attitudes and choices and be sure that we reflect the love of God. Way too often I expect other people to live up to my expectations, rather than trying to live up to Christ’s example in my own life. Secular people have no standard by which to measure their words and actions, but Christians have Scripture to guide us.
If you call yourself a Christian, shouldn’t you follow Christ as your example of living? Christ sacrificed His life for us and we need to honor that sacrifice by living for Him. The Apostle Paul is an example of a man whose life was changed when he met Christ. Paul had murder in his heart and words of hatred in his mouth, but after meeting Christ on the road to Damascus, Paul learned of Christ’s love and forgiveness. Paul’s life was a reflection of Christ’s love as he boldly shared the Gospel. <G73>
Romans 12:1 NIV
[1] Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God---this is your true and proper worship.
** Types of believers:
a) Wolf in sheep’s clothing or tare among wheat -- fake Christians who go along with the world narrative
b) Laodicean Christian — indifferent to what is going on; typically wealthy and worldly
c) Carnal believers — controlled by sin nature
d) Apostate Christians — those who have fallen from the faith; haven’t lost their salvation but lost their theology and are no longer truth seekers
e) New believers — young converts; those seeking for the truth WILL find it
f) Remnant believers — those who are mature and can see the big picture (spiritual warfare) and discerning the lies because they are grounded in God’s truth <H86>
** God desires we believe in Him and take action to prove our relationship with Him above all else; this was the message Samuel gave the Israelites when they wanted God to deliver them from their troubles
1 Samuel 7:3-4 NIV
[3] So Samuel said to all the Israelites, “If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the Lord and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.” [4] So the Israelites put away their Baals and Ashtoreths, and served the Lord only.
** Satan’s 5 step strategy to prepare the world for globalism: by replacing God, destroying relationships and abandoning critical thinking
1. Distract - get people to be distracted from God and what really matters
2. Self-Focus - put their attention on themselves, evident by the number of ‘selfies’ and profiles
3. Break Apart - break people’s relationships apart
4. Divide Humanity - we are clearly at this stage right now where differences of opinion are not tolerated
5. Globalism - building a global community which is Post-Separatism and Post-Modernism
We clearly see this happening today with the iPhone devices and unfettered access to the Internet <J102> (Sep 2021)
Genesis 3:1,4-5 NIV
[1] Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'? ” [4] “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. [5] “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
Isaiah 14:13-14 NIV
[13] You said in your heart, “I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. [14] I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.”
** A friend is one who loves, and does not cease to love. Christ having loved His people, loves them unto the end.
One quality of true friendship, is trust. What could be more sacred than this comfort of feeling safe with a person, absolutely safe? That is the kind of friend Jesus is. You may always feel safe with Him. You may confess all your sins to Him. You may tell Him all your faults and your failures — how you denied Him the other night, how you failed to be true to Him, and all the evil thoughts of your heart; and He will be just as tender and gracious, as if you never sinned! He loves to the end!
None of us would want to have our hearts photographed, and the picture held up before the eyes of our neighbors! We would not want even our best friends to see a full transcript of our secret life — what goes on within us:
• the jealousies,
• the envyings,
• the bitter feelings,
• the impure thoughts,
• the meannesses,
• the selfishnesses,
• the suspicions,
• the doubts and fears!
Yet Christ sees all this unworthy inner life. He knows the worst that is in us, and loves us still! We do not need to hide our weaknesses from Him. He never withdraws His love. We may trust Him absolutely and forever! <M136>
John 13:1 NIV
[1] It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.
** God willingly involves us in His plans, specific with instructions and consequences for disobedience
Jeremiah 48:10 NIV
[10] “A curse on anyone who is lax in doing the Lord's work! A curse on anyone who keeps their sword from bloodshed!
** Jesus repeated instructions to the 72 He sent out, as He did with the 12 disciples
• Members of this larger group were to depend on God and resources provided by others
• This event reminds us how IMPORTANT it is to be hospitable and sensitive to God's call and to provide for others!
Luke 10:4,7-8 NIV
[4] Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road. [7] Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house. [8] “When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is offered to you.
Luke 10:10-12 NIV
[10] But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into its streets and say, [11] ‘Even the dust of your town we wipe from our feet as a warning to you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God has come near.’ [12] I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.
Luke 10:33-35 NIV
[33] But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. [34] He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. [35] The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
Luke 10:38 NIV
[38] As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him.
** Do not trust in personal accomplishments or riches, for they will turn out to be your downfall
Jeremiah 48:7 NIV
[7] Since you trust in your deeds and riches, you too will be taken captive, and Chemosh will go into exile, together with his priests and officials.
Jeremiah 48:33,36 NIV
[33] Joy and gladness are gone from the orchards and fields of Moab. I have stopped the flow of wine from the presses; no one treads them with shouts of joy. Although there are shouts, they are not shouts of joy. [36] “So my heart laments for Moab like the music of a pipe; it laments like a pipe for the people of Kir Hareseth. The wealth they acquired is gone.
** Power and prosperity soon pass from one to another in this changing world
Jeremiah 46:19,24 NIV
[19] Pack your belongings for exile, you who live in Egypt, for Memphis will be laid waste and lie in ruins without inhabitant. [24] Daughter Egypt will be put to shame, given into the hands of the people of the north. ”
** God opposes the arrogant
Jeremiah 50:31-32 NIV
[31] “See, I am against you, you arrogant one,” declares the Lord, the Lord Almighty, “for your day has come, the time for you to be punished. [32] The arrogant one will stumble and fall and no one will help her up; I will kindle a fire in her towns that will consume all who are around her.”
** Remember that Baruch not only recorded Jeremiah’s dictation but read God’s words in the temple (ch 36)
Now we learn that Baruch had far too high expectations which made disasters harder to bear and Jeremiah, having gone through his own struggles, was able to encourage Baruch <M130>
Jeremiah 45:3 NIV
[3] You [Baruch] said, 'Woe to me! The Lord has added sorrow to my pain; I am worn out with groaning and find no rest.'
Jeremiah 45:4-5 NIV
[4] But the Lord has told me to say to you, 'This is what the Lord says: I will overthrow what I have built and uproot what I have planted, throughout the earth. [5] Should you then seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life.' ”
** Do fathers know how VITAL their role is in the home, especially with the development of their sons?
• Issue: boys need to be affirmed of their physical, emotional, spiritual growth by their fathers
• This requires a Biblical family unit with fathers who have a firm moral foundation & directive from Christ
• Numerous current-day societal agendas are working against this type of support at full throttle, saying we need to discourage boys to become men
• It’s to the point of condoning changing their gender when they have questions!?
• How awesome that we can find direction and confirmation in Christ when our fathers don’t fulfill their duty
Proverbs 4:4 NIV
[4] Then he taught me, and he said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live.
Ephesians 6:4 NIV
[4] Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord
** Believers are to actively oppose and prophesy against those who encourage others to trust in anything or anyone other than God
Ezekiel 13:17-18 NIV
[17] “Now, son of man, set your face against the daughters of your people who prophesy out of their own imagination. Prophesy against them [18] and say, 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to the women who sew magic charms on all their wrists and make veils of various lengths for their heads in order to ensnare people. Will you ensnare the lives of my people but preserve your own?
** Cancel culture is laser-focused on judgment and accusation and punishment," and the goal of those who cancel others is to broadcast their sins from pillar to post, and never allow them to be removed or forgotten. Christ's goal, on the other hand, is love, mercy and grace.
Jesus spent a lot of time with people in His day who had been canceled, so to speak, mentioning the woman at the well and lepers.
It would be nice to think that cancel culture is a temporary phase that our world is going through, but society is becoming more intolerant and polarized by the day. And I'm not sure we'll see a reversal of all these trends. The more insidious elements of cancel culture are a malignant form of the spitefulness and self-importance common to human nature.
What we're seeing today reminds me of what Jesus described in Matthew 24:
Matthew 24:10 NIV
[10] At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other
Cancel culture is a "culture of disdain." Jesus talked about how easily people would be offended in the days leading up to the tribulation. Boy, is that ever true! Have you ever noticed how easy people get offended these days? None of us wants to be offensive. But doesn't it seem like people everywhere are too easily offended? How long before someone sees us reading a Bible on the airplane and feels uncomfortable? When will someone take offense when we wear a t-shirt with the slogan John 3:16 on it? What about the cross around your neck that could get you in trouble? <J103>
** God can raise up friends for His people in distress, as was seen when orders were given for the prophet’s release by an Ethiopian called Ebed-melech who spoke to the king on Jeremiah’s behalf <H83>
Jeremiah 38:8-13 NIV
[8] Ebed-Melek went out of the palace and said to him, [9] “My lord the king, these men have acted wickedly in all they have done to Jeremiah the prophet. They have thrown him into a cistern, where he will starve to death when there is no longer any bread in the city.” [10] Then the king commanded Ebed-Melek the Cushite, “Take thirty men from here with you and lift Jeremiah the prophet out of the cistern before he dies.” [11] So Ebed-Melek took the men with him and went to a room under the treasury in the palace. He took some old rags and worn-out clothes from there and let them down with ropes to Jeremiah in the cistern. [12] Ebed-Melek the Cushite said to Jeremiah, “Put these old rags and worn-out clothes under your arms to pad the ropes.” Jeremiah did so, [13] and they pulled him up with the ropes and lifted him out of the cistern. And Jeremiah remained in the courtyard of the guard.
** Jeremiah knew if he gave the king bad news he could be imperiled so he asked the king to promise not to kill him — he knew most people only want to hear good news and will bury their heads in the sand against the truth; God will reward those who stand by His truth, as did Jeremiah against the king and surrounding guards
Jeremiah 38:14-16,21,23 NIV
[14] Then King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah the prophet and had him brought to the third entrance to the temple of the Lord. “I am going to ask you something,” the king said to Jeremiah. “Do not hide anything from me.” [15] Jeremiah said to Zedekiah, “If I give you an answer, will you not kill me? Even if I did give you counsel, you would not listen to me.” [16] But King Zedekiah swore this oath secretly to Jeremiah: “As surely as the Lord lives, who has given us breath, I will neither kill you nor hand you over to those who want to kill you.” [21] But if you refuse to surrender, this is what the Lord has revealed to me: [23] “All your wives and children will be brought out to the Babylonians. You yourself will not escape from their hands but will be captured by the king of Babylon; and this city will be burned down.”
Jeremiah 38:25 NIV
[25] If the officials hear that I talked with you, and they come to you and say, 'Tell us what you said to the king and what the king said to you; do not hide it from us or we will kill you,'
** True religion is intensely practical. Only so far as it dominates one's life, is it real. We must get the commandments out of God's Word, and give them a place in the hard, dusty paths of our earthly toil and struggle. We must get them off the tables of stone, and have them written on the walls of our own hearts! We must bring the Golden Rule into our daily, actual life.
We are too apt to imagine that holiness consists in mere good feeling toward God. It does not! It consists in obedience in heart and life to the divine requirements. To be holy is, first, to be set apart for God and devoted to God's service, and it necessarily follows that we must live for God.
• Our hands are God's, and can fitly be used only in doing His work.
• Our feet are God's, and may be employed only in walking in His ways and running His errands.
• Our lips are God's, and should speak words only that honor Him and bless others.
• Our hearts are God's, and must not be profaned by thoughts and affections that are not pure.
True holiness is no vague sentiment, it is intensely practical. It is nothing less than the bringing of every thought and feeling and act, into obedience to Christ! We are quite in danger of leaving out the element of obedience, in our conception of Christian living. If we do this, our religion loses its strength and grandeur, and becomes weak, nerveless and forceless.
Our religion must touch every part of our life, and transform it all into the beauty of holiness.
Romans 12:1-2 NIV
[1] Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God---this is your true and proper worship. [2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.
1 Peter 1:14-16 NIV
[14] As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. [15] But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; [16] for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”
** Though the afflictions of the church will last long, they will not last always <H83>
Jeremiah 30:3 NIV
[3] The days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will bring my people Israel and Judah back from captivity and restore them to the land I gave their ancestors to possess,' says the Lord.”
** The things of this world are not the best things that are often given to those who refuse to serve God <H83>
• In the end, those receiving the largest share of worldly things will be made to serve their enemies who seek to ruin them
• Conversely, God can restore a nation as desired in His timing
• As followers of Christ, we have the ultimate future eternal hope and blessing than those who seem to have the upper-hand in this life!
Jeremiah 27:16-17 NIV
[16] Then I said to the priests and all these people, “This is what the Lord says: Do not listen to the prophets who say, 'Very soon now the articles from the Lord's house will be brought back from Babylon.' They are prophesying lies to you. [17] Do not listen to them. Serve the king of Babylon, and you will live. Why should this city become a ruin?
Jeremiah 27:19,22 NIV
[19] For this is what the Lord Almighty says about the pillars, the bronze Sea, the movable stands and the other articles that are left in this city, [22] 'They will be taken to Babylon and there they will remain until the day I come for them,' declares the Lord. 'Then I will bring them back and restore them to this place.' ”
Ephesians 1:3,7-10 NIV
[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. [7] In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace [8] that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, [9] he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, [10] to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment---to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.
** The goal of noble living is to gather new virtue and grace from all life's struggles, cares and sorrows. A mark of an all noble character is its desire to do hard things! The man who seeks only easy things will never make much of his life. One who is afraid of hard work will never achieve anything worthwhile.
In an art gallery, before a lovely masterpiece, a young artist said to Ruskin, "Ah! If only I could put such a dream on canvas!" "Dream on canvas!" growled the old master. "It will take ten thousand touches of the brush on the canvas, to put your dream there!"
No doubt, many beautiful dreams die in the brains and hearts of people, for lack of effort to make them realities. In all departments of life this indolent, easy-going way of getting on in life is working its mischief. People do only what is easy, and never grapple with anything that is hard. Indolence is the bane of countless lives! They do not rise, because they do not have the courage and persistence to climb!
There are too many people who try to shirk hard things. They want to get along as easily as possible. They have ambition of a certain sort but it is ambition to have the 'victory' without the battle; to 'get the gold' without digging for it. They would like to be learned and wise but they do not care to toil in study, and "burn the midnight oil," as they must do if they would realize their desire. They may have a certain longing to be noble and Christlike, with a character that will command respect and confidence but they have not the spirit of self-denial and of earnest moral purpose, which alone can produce such a character.
They may want to be godly and to grow into worthy manhood, but lack that passionate earnestness which alone will yield vigorous piety, and manly virtue, and the heroic qualities of true Christlikeness. Mere "holy dreaming" will yield nothing better than spiritual effeminacy! No religion is worthy which does not seek to attain the best things; and the best can be won only by the bravest struggle and the most persistent striving!
We should not forget that no one ever did anything of great value in this world without cost. A quaint old proverb says, "One cannot have an omelet without breaking eggs!" If we do anything really worthwhile, that will be a blessing in the world we must put into it, not merely:
• Easy efforts
• Languid sympathies
• Conventional good wishes, and
• Courtesies that cost nothing!
We must put into it:
• Thought
• Time
• Patience
• Self-denial
• Sleepless nights
• Exhausting toil
There is a legend of an artist who had found the secret of a wonderful 'red' which no other artist could imitate. The secret of his 'color' died with him. But after his death an old wound was discovered over his heart. This revealed the source of the matchless hue in his pictures. The lesson of the legend is:
• No great achievement can be made
• No lofty attainment can be reached
• Nothing of much value to the world can be done — except at the cost of heart's blood!
Colossians 1:9-10 NIV
[9] For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, [10] so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,
Colossians 1:29 NIV
[29] To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.
** Life is a 'school'. All its experiences are 'lessons'. We are all in 'Christ's school' and He is always educating us.
• Disciples are 'learners' and all true Christians are disciples.
• We enter the lowest grade when we begin to be Christians.
• We have everything to learn.
• Each new experience is a new lesson set for us by the great Teacher.
The business of noble Christian living is learning. We know nothing when we begin. Learning is not confined to what we get from reading books. All of life is a school. 'Christ's books' are ever being put into our hands, and 'lessons' are set for us continually. <M136>
Philippians 4:11-12 NIV
[11] I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [12] I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
** We rely on God’s truth and to speak this truth to set people free, especially in these last days
Psalm 43:3 NIV
[3] Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.
Romans 1:18 NIV
[18] The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness
Ephesians 6:11-14 NIV
[11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. [14] Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place
Zechariah 8:16 NIV
[16] These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts
John 8:32 NIV
[32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
** As Jeremiah, we are to boldly proclaim God’s word to those around us
Jeremiah 17:19-20 NIV
[19] This is what the Lord said to me: “Go and stand at the Gate of the People, through which the kings of Judah go in and out; stand also at all the other gates of Jerusalem. [20] Say to them, 'Hear the word of the Lord, you kings of Judah and all people of Judah and everyone living in Jerusalem who come through these gates.
** The Word of God is a double-edged sword which means it hits the ‘inflictee’ and ‘inflictor’ equally; another way of putting it is ‘what goes around, comes around’ because Scripture affects everyone involved <D40> <G72>
Hebrews 4:12 NIV
[12] For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
** God told Jeremiah ‘times would be tough being the strong wall standing before the nations’; we are to commit to times of faith and obedience
Jeremiah 6:16 NIV
[16] This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’
** The Israelites were in tears, but it was rather a cry of their troubles and sin than a prayer; the prophet Jeremiah prayed for them because they realized they would rather lose their creature-comforts than experience the departure of God <H83>
Jeremiah 14:1-3 NIV
[1] This is the word of the Lord that came to Jeremiah concerning the drought: [2] “Judah mourns, her cities languish; they wail for the land, and a cry goes up from Jerusalem. [3] The nobles send their servants for water; they go to the cisterns but find no water. They return with their jars unfilled; dismayed and despairing, they cover their heads.
Jeremiah 14:7-8 NIV
[7] Although our sins testify against us, do something, Lord, for the sake of your name. For we have often rebelled; we have sinned against you. [8] You who are the hope of Israel, its Savior in times of distress, why are you like a stranger in the land, like a traveler who stays only a night?
** God is clear how He feels about extra-marital relations; this sin deserves His punishment
Jeremiah 5:7-9 NIV
[7] “Why should I forgive you? Your children have forsaken me and sworn by gods that are not gods. I supplied all their needs, yet they committed adultery and thronged to the houses of prostitutes. [8] They are well-fed, lusty stallions, each neighing for another man's wife. [9] Should I not punish them for this?” declares the Lord. “Should I not avenge myself on such a nation as this?
** Of all the pictures God could have chosen to show His love for the world, and of all of the pictures God could have chosen to show how much His church loves Him, He chose marriage. How do we know this? Because God says:
Ephesians 5:22-25 NIV
[22] Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. [23] For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. [24] Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. [25] Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her
Essentially the Lord is saying: “Hey, Planet Earth, do you want to know how much I love My people? Check out the way that Christian husband loves His wife. That’s what it’s like. And do you want to know how much My church loves Me? Look at the way that wife loves her husband. That’s how much my church loves Me.” Our love for God is a response to God’s love for us.
1 John 4:19 NIV
[19] We love because he first loved us.
Despite our sinfulness, wickedness, and shortcomings, despite all the horrible things we’ve done, God loves us. And His love wins us over. <L120>
** God leads His people via His own appointed shepherds
Jeremiah 3:15 NIV
[15] Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.
** Jeremiah was created special to be a prophet just as we all are created for God's sovereign purpose; even those around us, regardless of situation, are special in God's eyes
Why are we doing what we are doing... did God call you to where you are right now?
Jeremiah 1:5 NIV
[5] “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations. ”
Jeremiah 1:10 NIV
[10] See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”
** God gives us abilities and sets a direction before us
Isaiah 51:2 NIV
[2] look to Abraham, your father, and to Sarah, who gave you birth. When I called him he was only one man, and I blessed him and made him many.
** Life can get lonely; how wonderful this world is not the end of the story
Isaiah 57:1 NIV
[1] The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil.
** Where the Holy Spirit is, there will always be deep conviction of sin and true repentance for it. It is His special office to convict of sin.
• Holy Spirit shows the exceeding holiness of God
• He teaches the exceeding corruption and infirmity of our nature
• He strips us of our blind self-righteousness
• He opens our eyes to our awful guilt, folly and danger
• He fills the heart with sorrow, contrition, and abhorrence for sin — as the abominable thing which God hates
He who knows nothing of all this, and saunters carelessly through life, thoughtless about sin, and indifferent and unconcerned about his soul is a dead man before God! He has not the Holy Spirit.
The presence of the Holy Spirit in a man's heart can only be known by the fruits and effects He produces. Mysterious and invisible to mortal eye as His operations are, they always lead to certain visible and tangible results.
Just as you know there is life in a tree by its sap, buds, leaves and fruits — so you may know the Spirit to be in a man's heart by the influence He exercises over his thoughts, affections, opinions, habits, and life. I lay this down broadly and unhesitatingly; I see it clearly marked out in our Lord Jesus Christ's words in Luke 6. <R170>
John 16:8 NIV
[8] When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment
Luke 6:43-45 NIV
[43] “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. [44] Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. [45] A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.
** Do we understand the seriousness of sin and how it hurts God when we abandon Him? Can we hear the pain in God’s voice when He questions Israel regarding her sin?
Jeremiah 2:31-32 NIV
[31] “You of this generation, consider the word of the Lord: “Have I been a desert to Israel or a land of great darkness? Why do my people say, 'We are free to roam; we will come to you no more'? [32] Does a young woman forget her jewelry, a bride her wedding ornaments? Yet my people have forgotten me, days without number.
** Sin separates us from God and He hides His face when we sin; we dare not ask God for anything when arrogantly continuing to live in sin
Isaiah 59:2-3,7 NIV
[2] But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. [3] For your hands are stained with blood, your fingers with guilt. Your lips have spoken falsely, and your tongue mutters wicked things. [7] Their feet rush into sin; they are swift to shed innocent blood. They pursue evil schemes; acts of violence mark their ways.
** When people turn their backs on God, then rebellion, treachery, revolt, and lies abound while those who follow God become their prey; truth and justice is nowhere to be found
Isaiah 59:12-15 NIV
[12] For our offenses are many in your sight, and our sins testify against us. Our offenses are ever with us, and we acknowledge our iniquities: [13] rebellion and treachery against the Lord, turning our backs on our God, inciting revolt and oppression, uttering lies our hearts have conceived. [14] So justice is driven back, and righteousness stands at a distance; truth has stumbled in the streets, honesty cannot enter. [15] Truth is nowhere to be found, and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey. The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice.
** Jesus decidedly allowed the mocking and injustice against Him to continue; we too need to be ready to follow His example for the sake of the Gospel
• “Gentle pushback”, such as bravely speaking truth, against the world’s lies and enduring their mocking response is expected of a follower of Christ
• Standing up to someone practicing evil may entail pushing back in response to their blatant mocking of the Christian faith, but may also involve lovingly showing them God's love working through the Christian
• For some, it may be helping them with a task, others may respond to you praying with them, while others need a confrontational challenge to 'shake them' (figuratively speaking, of course) to wake them up to God's truth
• There's a balance that needs to happen: don't be a doormat to evil by only responding aggressively, but also show them there's a better way
• Believers in Christ are to hold fast to God and in Word in all circumstances
• Ask God to show you HOW to respond in each moment, knowing that every person requires a different response at different times
Isaiah 53:7 NIV
[7] He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.
2 Timothy 2:10 NIV
[10] Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
2 Timothy 4:5 NIV
[5] But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
Hebrews 12:1-3,7 NIV
[1] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, [2] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. [3] Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. [7] Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
1 Peter 2:20-21 NIV
[20] But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. [21] To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
** Jesus was not sought after because He spoke the truth; this only reminded others (like Pharisee leaders) of the lie they were living <K110>
Isaiah 53:3 NIV
[3] He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.
** God formed and fully developed us in the womb; at that time He also gave us abilities to fulfill our purpose in life for His glory
Isaiah 49:1-3,5 NIV
[1] Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the Lord called me; from my mother's womb he has spoken my name. [2] He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in his quiver. [3] He said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor. ” [5] And now the Lord says---he who formed me in the womb to be his servant to bring Jacob back to him and gather Israel to himself, for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord and my God has been my strength---
** God continues to provide for us to though His Word and involvement in our lives; He desires to teach and direct us in the way we should go; blessings await us when we follow His lead and we are denied His peace when we do not
Isaiah 48:17 NIV
[17] This is what the Lord says---your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.
Isaiah 48:18-19 NIV
[18] If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves of the sea. [19] Your descendants would have been like the sand, your children like its numberless grains; their name would never be blotted out nor destroyed from before me.”
Isaiah 48:22 NIV
[22] “There is no peace,” says the Lord, “for the wicked.”
** How can we learn contentment? One step toward contentment is patient submission to unavoidable ills and hardships. No earthly lot is perfect. No mortal ever yet in this world, has found a set of circumstances without some drawback.
There are:
• Trials which we cannot change into blessings
• Burdens which we cannot lay down
• Crosses which we must continue to carry
• Thorns in the flesh which must remain with their rankling pain
When we have such trials, why should we not sweetly accept them as part of God's best way with us? One who accepts with patience, that which he cannot change--has learned one secret of victorious living.
Another part of the lesson is that we can learn to moderate our desires. "Having food and clothing," says Paul again, "let us be content with these." Very much of our discontent arises from envy of those who seem to be more favored than ourselves. Many people lose most of the comfort out of their own lot--in coveting the finer, more luxurious things which some neighbor has. Yet if they knew the whole story of the life they envy for its greater prosperity, they probably would not exchange for it their own lower life with its more humble circumstances. Or if they could make the exchange, it is not likely they would find half so much real happiness in the other position, as they would have enjoyed on their own.
Contentment does not dwell so often in palaces--as in the homes of the humble. The tall peaks rise higher and are more conspicuous--but the winds smite them more fiercely than they do the quiet valleys. And surely, the lot in life which God makes for us, is always the best which could be made for us for the time. He knows better than we do, what our true needs are.
The real cause of our discontent is not in our circumstances; if it were, a change of circumstances might cure it. It is in ourselves, and wherever we go--we shall carry our discontent heart with us. The only cure which will affect anything, must be the curing of the fever of discontent in us.
A fine secret of contentment, lies in finding and extracting all the pleasure we can get from the things we have--the common, everyday things; while we enter upon no mad, vain chase after impossible dreams. In whatever state we are in, we may find therein enough for our needs.
No earthly misfortune can touch the wealth which a Christian holds in the divine promises and hopes. Just in the measure, therefore, in which we learn to live for spiritual and unseen eternal realities--do we find contentment amid earth's trials and losses. If we would live to please God, to build up Christlike character in ourselves, and to lay up treasure in Heaven--we shall not depend for happiness, on the way things go with us here on earth, nor on the measure of temporal goods we have. The earthly desires are crowded out by the higher and spiritual desires. We can do without childhood's toys--when we have manhood's better possessions. We desire the toys of this world less, as we get more of God and Heaven into our hearts.
Paul knew this secret. He cheerfully gave up all that this world had for him. Money had no power over him. He knew how to live in plenty; but he did not fret when poverty came instead. He was content in any trial, because earth meant so little--and Christ meant so much to him. He did not need the things he did not have. He was not made poor by the things he lost. He was not vexed by the sufferings he had to endure--because the sources of his life were in Heaven and could not be touched by earthly experiences of pain or loss.
These are hints of the way we may learn to be content in whatever circumstances. Surely the lesson is worth learning! One year of sweet contentment, amid earth's troublous scenes--is better than a whole lifetime of vexed, restless discontent! The lesson can be learned, too, by anyone who is truly Christ's disciple; for did not the Master say, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you." <M136>
Philippians 4:11-13 NIV
[11] I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [12] I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. [13] I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
** The Jewish concept of “peace” is “shalom” (from Hebrew origins) which is vastly different than our normative concept in today’s society
Peace is not just the absence of all conflict but also the presence of everything good; peace is not neutral — we are not to be satisfied with the absence of conflict but we are to actively bring the Gospel message and hope we have
Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we CAN offer hope to others that God will remove their sin and they can also become righteous before Him
If we want to be peacemakers in today’s insane world:
a) keep Gospel convictions because bringing peace is not joining the latest cultural movement or to strive for unity between warring factions — we need to tell God’s truth in love to a hurting world
b) keep having Gospel conversations with those who are not like us in our non-Christian world; we can no longer assume the other person knows the basics of Christianity
c) if we follow the first two steps we can enjoy Gospel reconciliation, for peace can pass understanding with God’s help; we have no hope of living out the beatitudes without God to show us the way and enable us to do so <J104>
Matthew 5:9 NIV
[9] Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Ephesians 4:15 NIV
[15] Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.
** The Lord God knows the beginning from the end and He WILL fulfill prophecy
Isaiah 44:24-28 NIV
[24] “This is what the Lord says---your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb: I am the Lord, the Maker of all things, who stretches out the heavens, who spreads out the earth by myself, [25] who foils the signs of false prophets and makes fools of diviners, who overthrows the learning of the wise and turns it into nonsense, [26] who carries out the words of his servants and fulfills the predictions of his messengers, who says of Jerusalem, 'It shall be inhabited,' of the towns of Judah, 'They shall be rebuilt,' and of their ruins, 'I will restore them,' [27] who says to the watery deep, 'Be dry, and I will dry up your streams,' [28] who says of Cyrus, 'He is my shepherd and will accomplish all that I please; he will say of Jerusalem, “Let it be rebuilt,” and of the temple, “Let its foundations be laid.” '
** God WILL accomplish what He sets out to accomplish, for He knows the end from the beginning
Isaiah 46:8-10 NIV
[8] “Remember this, keep it in mind, take it to heart, you rebels. [9] Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. [10] I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.'
** A quick checklist of what God wants of His followers is found in Micah 6:8... to grow in the grace & knowledge of our Savior and to make decisions that please God based on what He has shown us to be right & wrong in Scripture <G72>
Micah 6:8 NIV
[8] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
2 Peter 3:18 NIV
[18] But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Matthew 7:12 NIV
[12] So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Luke 9:23 NIV
[23] Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
** The Lord provides for those in need for His glory
Isaiah 41:17-20 NIV
[17] “The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the Lord will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them. [18] I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs. [19] I will put in the desert the cedar and the acacia, the myrtle and the olive. I will set junipers in the wasteland, the fir and the cypress together, [20] so that people may see and know, may consider and understand, that the hand of the Lord has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it.
** The Bema (judgment) Seat is translated as court or tribunal that can be either public or private, similar to Paul before Agrippa; we will ALL stand before God to give an account of our lives
Typically, bema refers to a high platform where the judge sat used for giving awards; the Bema Seat we will face is to determine awards or crowns
The Christian life is a race and the divine umpire is Jesus Christ; after our race is over Christ will gather the Church before the bema in Heaven for the purpose of giving rewards for faithful service after trusting Christ — works don’t save us but we will be held accountable for our efforts!
The varying degree of rewards that the believer receives will be proportionate to the varying degrees of faithfulness they show in this life; the key is faithfulness to the gifts (time, talent, resources) God has given
Romans 14:10 NIV
[10] You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister ? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat.
2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV
[10] For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
Acts 25:22 NIV
[22] Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear this man myself.” He replied, “Tomorrow you will hear him.”
Matthew 16:27 NIV
[27] For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.
Ephesians 6:8 NIV
[8] because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.
1 Corinthians 3:10,12-13 NIV
[10] By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. [12] If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, [13] their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person's work.
1 Corinthians 3:15 NIV
[15] If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved---even though only as one escaping through the flames.
Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV
[15] Be very careful, then, how you live---not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
1 John 2:28 NIV
[28] And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.
Colossians 3:23-24 NIV
[23] Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, [24] since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Do not confuse this with the other two judgments of Separating Sheep & Goats (after 7 year Tribulation), and the Great White Throne judgment (after 1000 year Millennial Kingdom) both for non-believers <T203>
Matthew 25:31-33 NIV
[31] “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. [32] All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. [33] He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
** Paul understood that believers can be deceived and change course <F60>
• We can see this increasing as the day approaches believing their own lies
• God’s people seem to have a propensity toward deception, confusion, division, feckless, impotent to keep “the good life” the church has had these past decades
• While the church should lead the world, the world is instead turning the church from Christ
• The church is concerned about the demographics of the congregation and not offending anyone
2 Corinthians 11:3 NIV
[3] But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:14-15 NIV
[14] And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. [15] It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.
James 1:22 NIV
[22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 NIV
[9] The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with how Satan works. He will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie, [10] and all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. [11] For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie [12] and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.
Romans 13:8 NIV
[8] Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.
** God places great importance on fulfilling vows; we are to follow His lead, the One whose promises are true and everlasting
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 NIV
[4] When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. [5] It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.
Proverbs 20:25 NIV
[25] It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one's vows.
Isaiah 38:7 NIV
[7] “This is the Lord's sign to you that the Lord will do what he has promised...”
** Remember, it is not hasty reading — but serious meditating upon holy and heavenly truths that make them prove sweet and profitable to the soul. It is not the bee's touching of the flower which gathers honey — but her abiding for a time upon the flower which draws out the sweet. It is not he who reads most — but he who meditates most who will prove the choicest, sweetest, wisest and strongest Christian.
Know that it is not the knowing, nor the talking, nor the reading man — but the DOING man that at last will be found the happiest man.
John 13:17 NIV
[17] Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
Matthew 7:21 NIV
[21] “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Judas called Christ 'Lord, Lord!' and yet betrayed him, and has gone to his place. Ah! how many Judases have we in these days...
• who kiss Christ and yet betray Christ;
• who in their words profess him but in their works deny him;
• who bow their knee to him and yet in their hearts despise him;
• who call him Jesus and yet will not obey him for their Lord.
Reader, If it is not strong upon your heart to practice what you read, to what end do you read? To increase your own condemnation? If your light and knowledge is not turned into practice, the more knowing a man you are, the more miserable a man you will be in the day of recompense; your light and knowledge will torment you more than all the devils in Hell. Your knowledge will be...
• that rod that will eternally lash you, and
• that scorpion that will forever bite you, and
• that worm that will everlastingly gnaw you!
Therefore read and labor to know, that you may do — or else you are undone forever! <B24>
** Do not many of you read the Bible in a very hurried way — just a little bit, and off you go! Do you not soon forget what you have read, and lose what little effect it seemed to have?
How few of you are resolved to get at its soul, its juice, its life, its essence, and to drink in its meaning. Well, if you do not do that then your reading is miserable reading, dead reading, unprofitable reading; it is not reading at all, the name would be misapplied. May the blessed Spirit give you repentance concerning this thing.
Meditation and careful thought, exercise us and strengthen the soul for the reception of the yet more lofty truths.
We must meditate, brethren. These grapes will yield no wine until we tread upon them. These olives must be put under the wheel, and pressed again and again so the oil may flow therefrom. <S185>
Psalm 1:2 NIV
[2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
Joshua 1:8 NIV
[8] Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
** God established a plan from the beginning and continues to execute it in perfect faithfulness
Isaiah 25:1 NIV
[1] Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago.
** Worldly men imagine that there is true excellency and true happiness in those things which they are pursuing. They think that if they could but obtain them, that they would be happy. But when they obtain them, and cannot find happiness — then they look for happiness in something else, and are still upon the futile pursuit.
There is a transcendent glory, and an ineffable sweetness in Christ.
• Jesus Christ has true excellency, and so great an excellency that when you come to truly see Him, you look no further, but your mind rests there.
You see that you had been pursuing shadows, but now you have found the substance.
• You realize that you had been seeking happiness in the stream, but now you have found the ocean!
The excellency of Christ is an object adequate to the natural cravings of the soul, and is sufficient to fill its capacity.
• Christ has an infinite excellency, such as the mind desires, in which it can find no bounds.
• The more the mind contemplates Him, the more excellent He appears. <E55>
** The Jews were infatuated with Egypt’s strength, and relied on Egypt despite her previous failures to give effective aid; the Pharaohs maintained large numbers of chariots
The trust in the Egyptian alliance was accompanied by a distrust in God and His power; a disinclination to look to Him for aid <B20>
Isaiah 31:1 NIV
[1] Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help,
who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the Lord.
Psalm 20:7 NIV
[7] Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
Deuteronomy 17:16 NIV
[16] The king, moreover, must not acquire great numbers of horses for himself or make the people return to Egypt to get more of them, for the Lord has told you, “You are not to go back that way again.”
Isaiah 36:6 NIV
[6] Look, I know you are depending on Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff, which pierces the hand of anyone who leans on it! Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who depend on him.
Daniel 9:13 NIV
[13] Just as it is written in the Law of Moses, all this disaster has come on us, yet we have not sought the favor of the Lord our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth.
** Satan’s strategy to steal, kill & destroy often by dividing and conquering in the church
• Unfortunately, church members all too often end up in a weakened state as they choose sides on irrelevant issues
• As Christians, our aim should always be to first demonstrate peace, love, unity, being tempered in debate with a teachable and forgiving spirit in all situations – but there comes a time when evil requires confrontation with God’s truth <D40>
1 Corinthians 14:33 NIV
[33] For God is not a God of disorder but of peace---as in all the congregations of the Lord's people.
Galatians 5:14-15 NIV
[14] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [15] If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
Mark 3:24-26 NIV
[24] If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. [25] If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. [26] And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come.
1 Corinthians 1:10-12 NIV
[10] I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. [11] My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. [12] What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas ”; still another, “I follow Christ.”
Romans 16:17-18 NIV
[17] I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. [18] For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.
2 Timothy 2:23-26 NIV
[23] Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. [24] And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. [25] Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, [26] and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
2 Corinthians 2:10-11 NIV
[10] Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven---if there was anything to forgive---I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, [11] in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.
• Remember that our war is spiritual and people (particularly our brethren in the fellowship) are not the enemy!
• If Satan can get us to turn on each other then his work is done <F60>
Ephesians 6:12 NIV
[12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
• The description of the Church when Christ returns is battle-weary and weakened which is exactly the state of the church today
• Christ encourages this church in Philadelphia which is in modern day Turkey to keep the remnant from the Tribulation via Rapture
Revelation 3:8,10-11 NIV
[8] I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. [10] Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. [11] I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.
** All human plans to “save the world” will come to naught
Isaiah 26:17-18 NIV
[17] As a pregnant woman about to give birth writhes and cries out in her pain, so were we in your presence, Lord. [18] We were with child, we writhed in labor, but we gave birth to wind. We have not brought salvation to the earth, and the people of the world have not come to life.
** Liberty and freedom cannot be accomplished via human efforts alone — we need to seek God to bring it about and rely on the power of His Word to direct us, otherwise we get entangled and stumble
• If any Christian turns to legalism, represented here by circumcision, and struggles to live a good life by self-effort, his union with Jesus will be of no value
• In essence, Paul is saying that Christians who rely on self-effort being guided by the Law, ‘turns off’ Christ who lives within
• Those who do not rely on Jesus get nothing accomplished! <R1795>
Galatians 5:1 NIV
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
• God wants us to live in freedom
• Don't let Satan steal this joy from you
• Do you notice that those who hate freedom most often hate God? <K110>
Galatians 5:7-8 NIV
You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? [8] That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you.
** God in early Old Testament days established the path to salvation through repentance and rest; our salvation can still be found in quietness, repentance, and trust in God
Isaiah 30:15 NIV
[15] This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.
Exodus 14:14 NIV
[14] The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Isaiah 32:16-18 NIV
[16] The Lord's justice will dwell in the desert, his righteousness live in the fertile field. [17] The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever. [18] My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.
Isaiah 45:22 NIV
[22] “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.
** We must distinguish between things that differ, namely, a knowledge of spiritual things and actual spiritual knowledge
• A knowledge of spiritual things can be acquired by the unregenerate, while spiritual knowledge is peculiar to the children of God
CA knowledge of spiritual things is merely intellectual and theoretical, while spiritual knowledge is vital and effective
One may take up "Bible study" in the same way as another would the study of philosophy or science. He may pursue it diligently and enthusiastically. He may obtain a familiarity of the letter of Scripture and a proficiency in understanding its terms, far in advance of the hard-working Christian who has less leisure and less natural ability.
Yet what is such knowledge worth, if it:
• Does not affect the heart
• Fails to transform the character, and
• Does not make the daily walk pleasing to God!
Unless our "Bible study" is conforming us, both inwardly and outwardly, to the image of Christ — it profits us nothing! <P161>
1 Corinthians 13:2 NIV
[2] If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
** The desolations of Tyre were not to be forever. The Lord will visit Tyre in mercy. But when set at liberty, she will use her old arts of temptation. The love of worldly wealth is spiritual idolatry; and covetousness is spiritual idolatry. This directs those that have wealth to use it in the service of God. When we abide with God in our worldly callings; when we do all in our power to further the gospel, then our merchandise and hire are holiness to the Lord. Christians should carry on business as God’s servants and use riches as His stewards. <H83>
Isaiah 23:15-18 NIV
[15] At that time Tyre will be forgotten for seventy years, the span of a king's life. But at the end of these seventy years, it will happen to Tyre as in the song of the prostitute: [16] “Take up a harp, walk through the city, you forgotten prostitute; play the harp well, sing many a song, so that you will be remembered.” [17] At the end of seventy years, the Lord will deal with Tyre. She will return to her lucrative prostitution and will ply her trade with all the kingdoms on the face of the earth. [18] Yet her profit and her earnings will be set apart for the Lord; they will not be stored up or hoarded. Her profits will go to those who live before the Lord, for abundant food and fine clothes.
** Some have different gifts for the profit of all
• Some have the gift of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, gifts of healing, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, different kind of tongues and their interpretation ALL from the same Holy Spirit
• Christ followers should not only make sure we recognize and receive this gift but then use it for God’s glory!
1 Corinthians 12:8-11 NIV
[8] To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, [9] to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, [10] to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. [11] All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
** Tongues is a sign for unbelievers while prophecy is a sign for believers
• A sign is a visible mark of God’s presence or activity
• Even though tongues can offer unbelievers a sign of God, intelligible speech has priority in the church because it can be used to convict an unbeliever of sin <R1795>
1 Corinthians 14:22 NIV
[22] Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers.
1 Corinthians 14:23-25 NIV
[23] So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and inquirers or unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind? [24] But if an unbeliever or an inquirer comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted of sin and are brought under judgment by all, [25] as the secrets of their hearts are laid bare. So they will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, “God is really among you!”
** Do not quarrel over words, for Satan can influence Christians to do his dirty work — to steal, kill and destroy — robbing the Church of our joy, stealing our strength and killing our witness/integrity
When we disagree, then search the Scriptures for truth and cling to Christ who provides us with abundant life!
2 Timothy 2:14 NIV
Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.
2 Timothy 2:16-18 NIV
Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. [17] Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, [18] who have departed from the truth. They say that the resurrection has already taken place, and they destroy the faith of some.
2 Timothy 2:23-24 NIV
Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. [24] And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.
2 Timothy 2:25-26 NIV
Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, [26] and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
John 10:10 NIV
[10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
John 13:34-35 NIV
[34] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
** In deducing from these words of moral and spiritual lessons, it seems that each individual in this life has some great purpose to fulfill. "David served God's purpose in his own generation." He has left his indelible footprints on the sands of time!
Everything in the wide universe has its special mission. Turn to whatever page we may in the vast volume of creation, we shall find in each, the record of some peculiar office and vocation. Mountains and seas, fire and hail, snow and vapor, stormy wind — all fulfill the word and decree and design of God.
And is it different with man? Has he alone no momentous work to perform in the economy in which he is placed? Is our whole earthly destiny to eat and drink, and sleep and die?
Are we to fritter away our brief hour on life's stage; to be ushered in with a few rejoicings at our birth, followed by a few tears at our departure? And when our sun has gone down, when the grass of the grave covers our resting places, shall we be as if we never were? <M129>
Acts 13:36 NIV
[36] “Now when David had served God's purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed.
** Their world, in effect, changed overnight. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were Jews who had been ripped away from their family and friends and carried away captive to Babylon. And they found themselves in an environment that was hostile to their faith.
It is not unlike many Christians today, whether they’re students in a hostile environment on a college campus or employees in a workplace where people have no interest in the things of God.
King Nebuchadnezzar wanted the brightest and best of Israel to school in the ways of Babylon and use to influence other Jews. He basically wanted to turn these young Hebrew men into Babylonian men who knew the ways of the Babylonian world.
In some ways, it was a great honor that the king summoned them to the palace. But in another way, they were exposed to great temptation. Yet in Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we see young men who were resolute. They wouldn’t compromise and eat from the king’s table.
We don’t know exactly why they refused, but it was a big enough reason to make a stand. And there was a real intimidation factor to take this stand with Nebuchadnezzar because he was a cruel and powerful man.
Yet the Bible tells us that “Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank” (Daniel 1:8 NKJV). Daniel didn’t want to do anything that could hinder his fellowship with God.
Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood their ground in a seemingly small area, which I believe enabled them to stand their ground in a much larger area later in their lives.
We all have temptations to compromise. That’s why, like Daniel, we need purpose and resolution because if we compromise now, we’ll regret it later. <L120>
Daniel 1:8 NIV
[8] But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
** It has frequently occurred that young converts in the ardor of their first love, and while much unacquainted as yet, with what is called the 'religious world', have looked upon the church as a 'sacred enclosure', within which dwelt a kind of heavenly inhabitants, who could think or speak of little else than the glory which awaited them. In the church these novices expected to find...
• the sweetest and holiest fellowship,
• an almost unearthly spirituality, and
• an uninterrupted strain of pious conversation.
But alas! What a woeful disappointment did the reality produce! In the 'sacred enclosure' they found worldly-minded professors — almost as intent upon seen and temporal things, as those they had left out in the world!
In the 'vestibule of heaven', they beheld professors ...
• covered with the 'earthly dust',
• disordered with worldly concerns,
• and given up to worldly amusements!
In the church members, they saw little but worldly conduct, and heard little else but worldly conversation! A cold chill fell upon their hearts, which checked the ardor of their pious affections; and even they, lately so fervent, soon sunk and settled down into the lukewarmness of those among whom they had come to dwell. <J101>
** Too often the children are like their parents, and bring into the church no higher or better kind of religion than what they have learned at home! And thus a low tone of piety, a lukewarm Laodicean spirit is extended and perpetuated.
There must be a revival of piety in the parents! It is vain to expect that a worldly-minded father, whose spirituality, if he ever had any, has been utterly evaporated by the exclusiveness of concern about business and politics. Or a frivolous, pleasure-loving mother, who thinks far more about adorning the bodies of her children, than about saving their souls--should be at all concerned about the pious education of their children.
Recollect what a solemn thing it is to be a parent! What a weighty responsibility attaches to those who have the immortal souls of their children committed to their care! <J101>
1 Timothy 4:11-12 NIV
[11] Command and teach these things. [12] Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
Ephesians 6:4 NIV
[4] Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
** Professing Christians, instead of looking into the perfect standard of Scripture, and seeing themselves reflected from that faithful mirror, and adjusting their character and conduct by its infallible revelations--placed before themselves the standard of the Christian profession as it was found in the church of the day, and regulated their behavior by what they saw in the prevailing character of their fellow Christians!
Let us turn away from the religion we see in the church--to the religion we read in the Bible! Let us not go to the imperfect and blurred copy--but to the perfect and unspotted original! The Bible's representation of the nature of true piety is intended for us as our guide, and is obligatory upon us! <J101>
** The world is, indeed, a very dangerous foe to the believer. To very, very many, it is the most destructive one. They are not so likely to be subdued by 'open vice' as by worldly-mindedness.
1 John 2:15 NIV
[15] Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.
Worldliness is the sin of the age, and has deeply infected the church of Christ!
• Your business is the world,
• your family is the world,
• your comfortable home is the world,
• the wife of your bosom is the world,
• the children whom God has given you are the world.
"What! then," you exclaim, "are we not to love these?" Yes, in proper degrees — but not more than God. You are not to seek your highest happiness from them. You are not to be more solicitous to secure them, than Heaven. It is of a 'supreme love' which the apostle speaks. <J101>
Matthew 10:37 NIV
[37] “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
** Toward GOD, holiness is...
• supreme love;
• delight in His moral character;
• submission to His will;
• obedience to His commands;
• zeal for His cause;
• seeking of His glory.
Toward CHRIST, holiness is...
• a conformity to His example,
• imbibing His spirit.
Toward MAN, holiness is...
• charity,
• integrity,
• truth,
• mercy.
Toward SIN, holiness is...
• a hatred of all iniquity,
• a tender conscience easily wounded by little sins, and
• scrupulously avoiding them;
together with a laborious, painful, self-denying, mortification of all the known corruptions of our heart.
Toward SELF, holiness is...
• the control of our fleshly appetites;
• the eradication of our pride;
• the mortification of our selfishness.
Toward DIVINE things in general, holiness is...
• spirituality of mind,
• the habitual current of godly thought,
• godly affections flowing through the soul.
And, toward the objects of the UNSEEN world, holiness is...
• heavenly-mindedness,
• a turning away from things seen and temporal, to things unseen and eternal.
Oh, what a word is holiness!
How much does it comprehend!
How little is it understood, and how much less is it practiced! <J101>
2 Peter 3:11 NIV
[11] Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives
** David asked how he can repay the Lord for His goodness expressed to him; we should ask the same and fulfill our vows to the Lord as we call on Him and serve Him
Psalm 116:12-14 NIV
[12] What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me? [13] I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. [14] I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.
Psalm 116:17-19 NIV
[17] I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the Lord. [18] I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people, [19] in the courts of the house of the Lord---in your midst, Jerusalem. Praise the Lord.
Psalm 116:15-16 NIV
[15] Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. [16] Truly I am your servant, Lord; I serve you just as my mother did; you have freed me from my chains.
** Question: "What does the Bible say about feminism? Should a Christian be a feminist?"
Answer: This question is especially important to Christian women. Does the Word of God address feminism? The modern concept of feminism was not present during the time that the Bible was written, but that does not mean the Bible has nothing to say on the basic issues of feminism. Even when the Scriptures seem to be silent on something that affects us today, there are eternal principles that speak to the underlying issue.
First, we should define feminism, since the term can have different meanings for different people. Basically, feminism is a philosophy that advocates equal rights for women and men—socially, politically, economically, and in other ways. Early feminists fought for and won suffrage for women. Today’s feminism goes further than demanding equal treatment of men and women, however. Modern feminists fight for language equality (saying “chairperson” instead of “chairman,” even if the person in question is male) and gender equality (redefining femininity and masculinity). The more radical feminists actively seek to overthrow any vestige of male dominance in society, to the point of opposing the biblical roles of husbands and wives, defending abortion on demand, and promoting lesbianism. Radical feminists deny there is any difference between men and women, teaching that any perceived differences between the sexes are due solely to social conditioning.
Modern feminism is a counterfeit solution to the real issue of the inequality of women in a sinful society. Feminism arrogates to itself the right to demand respect and equality in every aspect of life. Feminism is based in arrogance, and it is the opposite of the call to the born-again believer to be a servant. The modern, militant feminists call women to rise up and rebel against the order that God has given to mankind. That brand of feminism seeks to impose humanistic values in direct opposition to the Word of God. Feminism was originally a positive movement, focused on giving women the basic rights God intends for every human being to have. Tragically, feminism now focuses on destroying all distinctions in the roles of men and women.
What then should be a Christian’s view of feminism? A believing woman, who is seeking to obey God and walk in peace and grace, should remember that she has equal access to all spiritual blessings in Christ. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). A believing woman should not allow herself to be used as a pawn in the worldly agenda of the feminist movement. Men and women have a God-given privilege to fulfill the plan He has set for us. Rebellion against that plan and the arrogance that seeks to put self above God’s Word brings difficult consequences. We see those consequences in the destruction of the relationship between husbands and wives, the destruction of the family, and the loss of respect for human life.
“For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world” (1 John 2:16). The principles of the fall are present in this verse. Eve believed the lie that eating the fruit would bring her wisdom. She lusted, and she took something that was forbidden. This is the basis for the modern feminist movement. Women have bought into the lie that feminism will bring them the power and freedom they think they want and deserve. However, the promise is empty, for the premise is rooted in pride—and pride goes before a fall (Proverbs 16:18).
The last decades have seen the rise of a society that is so concerned with political correctness and so sensitive to being “offended” that civility has lost its way. However, this is really nothing new, for there has always been inequality in the world. It is sad but true that artificial barriers have always divided humanity—barriers that have no basis in God’s Word. It is sin in the heart that causes inequality. It is sin that causes men to treat women in ways that are meant to demean or objectify them. And it is sin that seeks counterfeit solutions to counteract these inequalities. The only true cure for inequality is obedience to God’s Word. If men and women would walk in obedience to God’s Word, radical feminism would be seen for what it is, and the harmony that God has ordained between men and women would result. <G72>
** The church today has aligned itself with the world and is heavily involved in the social justice movements — protect the environment, care for the poor, reject racism, fight for the powerless, share earthly resources, embrace diversity, enjoy this life and “be happy” above all else — thinking if the church gets on board to help resolve these issues then people would be more accepting of the Gospel.
The trouble is, there is no evidence or support of this in Scripture. Nowhere in Scripture does it say we are to be the Social Services Network for the world. Of course we are to help where we can, but our primary focus is to preach the gospel and a by-product of our commitment to Christ are actions that address social issues.
In fact, Jesus (the greatest teacher on earth who transformed lives miraculously) came to this world and STILL the people rejected Him and put Him to death. Even though He healed the sick, interacted with prostitutes and those low on the social rung, demonstrated His love and power through events such as feeding thousands & changing water into wine, the people still did not accept the love of God and put Him on a cross.
Was Paul primarily concerned about ending slavery and setting up soup kitchens and defending those living in sin, such as homosexuals and agitators? Absolutely not.
What makes churches today think societal attitudes would be different than during the days of Jesus and Paul? No doubt, society would appreciate the effort toward social justice while still rejecting the Gospel foundation that led to such actions. So what makes the church these days think our focus should be on the results of social justice instead of taking up our cross daily for Christ and preaching His Word? — actually being OK if others hate us because we stand for Christ?
Acts 2:21 NIV
[21] And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'
Matthew 10:22 NIV
[22] You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.
Luke 18:26-27 NIV
[26] Those who heard this asked, “Who then can be saved?” [27] Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”
Acts 4:13,18-20 NIV
[13] When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. [18] Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. [19] But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God's eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! [20] As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
Acts 16:31-34 NIV
[31] They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved---you and your household.” [32] Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. [33] At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. [34] The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God---he and his whole household.
Romans 8:22-28 NIV
[22] We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. [23] Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. [24] For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? [25] But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. [26] In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. [27] And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God. [28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
** The Lord provides for His children for His glory; we are to pray for others and give glory to God for His faithfulness and being trustworthy in answering our prayers, remembering that God always knows BEST how to respond to our prayers
Psalm 111:4-8 NIV
[4] He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate. [5] He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever. [6] He has shown his people the power of his works, giving them the lands of other nations. [7] The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. [8] They are established for ever and ever, enacted in faithfulness and uprightness.
** Take time to reflect and marvel at God’s works and His righteousness
Psalm 111:1-3 NIV
[1] Praise the Lord. I will extol the Lord with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly. [2] Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. [3] Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever.
** God places great importance on fulfilling vows; we are to follow His lead, the One whose promises are everlasting
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 NIV
[4] When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. [5] It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.
Proverbs 20:25 NIV
[25] It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one's vows.
Isaiah 38:7 NIV
[7] “This is the Lord's sign to you that the Lord will do what he has promised...”
** Even in a cursed universe, activity should not be meaningless; God made men for His eternal purpose and nothing in post-Fall time can bring them satisfaction <M130>
Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV
[11] He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
** Nothing endures apart from God and He will judge all in the end
Ecclesiastes 3:14 NIV
[14] I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.
Ecclesiastes 3:17 NIV
[17] I said to myself, “God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked, for there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed.”
** Man’s existence in this world and his accomplishments are not remembered, so why place so much value in them?
• This world is not our home, so don't give it ultimate priority
• Be concerned with the eternal soul rather than the temporary body and its accomplishments
Ecclesiastes 1:3-4 NIV
[3] What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun? [4] Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever.
Matthew 10:28 NIV
[28] Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
** The world is watching Christians during these final days, and what message are we giving them?
• Let’s agree to disagree on matters of non-salvation instead of tearing each other down <F60> (Sep 2020)
Galatians 5:14-15 NIV
[14] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [15] If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
** Obedience to God’s commands
Why call me Lord and do not the things I say,
you call me the way and walk me not,
you call me the life and live me not,
you call me master and obey me not,
if I condemn you, blame me not.
You call me bread and eat me not,
you call me truth and believe me not,
you call me Lord and serve me not,
if I condemn you, blame me not. <O157>
Matthew 7:21-23 NIV
[21] “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' [23] Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
It is not enough to know or say the words, but we must put these words into ACTION! Those who practice God's law build their house on solid ground. The storm is the final judgment where they will be tested to determine whether they took their commitment to the Lord seriously and built with faith in Him alone.
Matthew 7:24-27 NIV
[24] “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. [25] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. [26] But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. [27] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
As believers, we must STRIVE to enter through the narrow gate and obey God's commands. It takes effort on our part and is not simply a matter of saying a prayer and living your life the way you want. It is a matter of taking up our cross and following Him daily; it requires a consciencous decision to deny the patterns of this world and
follow God alone.
Luke 13:22-25 NIV
[22] Then Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. [23] Someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, [24] “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. [25] Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, 'Sir, open the door for us.' “But he will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'
Proverbs 30:11-12 NIV
[11] “There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers; [12] those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not cleansed of their filth;
Romans 12:2 NIV
[2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.
** God looks at MOTIVE of the heart — why we think & do what we do — while man often focuses on someone’s words and actions
Proverbs 16:2 NIV
[2] All a person's ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.
Proverbs 21:2-3 NIV
[2] A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart. [3] To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.
Proverbs 20:27 NIV
[27] The human spirit [soul] is the lamp of the Lord that sheds light on one's inmost being.
Proverbs 24:10-12 NIV
[10] If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength! [11] Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. [12] If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,” does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done?
James 4:17 NIV
[17] If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.
Proverbs 27:19 NIV
[19] As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart.
** Love and faithfulness are to be at the core of the Christian life which will then bring favor on God and man
Proverbs 3:3-4 NIV
[3] Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. [4] Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.
** Don’t fall for the world’s standards of ‘success’, for it is better to have a little and be spiritually sound than have great wealth and follow corruption
Proverbs 15:16-17 NIV
[16] Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil. [17] Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.
** God desires honesty in our business dealings, guided by the integrity of the upright
Proverbs 11:1,3-4 NIV
[1] The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him. [3] The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.
Proverbs 11:17-18,20 NIV
[17] Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves. [18] A wicked person earns deceptive wages, but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. [20] The Lord detests those whose hearts are perverse, but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.
Proverbs 11:24-26 NIV
[24] One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. [25] A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. [26] People curse the one who hoards grain, but they pray God's blessing on the one who is willing to sell.
Proverbs 11:28 NIV
[28] Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.
** He who mismanages his house will see all he has blown away, and he will have nothing left in the end <M130>
Proverbs 11:29 NIV
[29] Whoever brings ruin on their family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise.
** Early childhood teaching requires discipline from both parents, including corporal punishment that comes from a balance of kindness and love <M130>
• The Jewish people were noted for their love of children and were among the best of parents in the ancient world
• Verses advocating for corporal punishment in no way support an abusive approach to child-rearing, but instead emphasize the necessity of of discipline if boys and girls are to freely choose God’s way as adults <R1795>
• There is great hope that the use of ‘divine ordinance’ of the rod will produce godly virtue and parental joy
Proverbs 13:24 NIV
[24] Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.
Proverbs 10:13 NIV
[13] Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense.
Proverbs 19:18 NIV
[18] Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.
Proverbs 23:13-16,24-25 NIV
[13] Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die. [14] Punish them with the rod and save them from death. [15] My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad indeed; [16] my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right. [24] The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. [25] May your father and mother rejoice; may she who gave you birth be joyful!
• Such discipline must have the right motivation and appropriate severity
• One who has genuine affection for the child but withholds corporal punishment will produce the same kind of child as a parent who hates his offspring
Hebrews 12:5-11 NIV
[5] And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, [6] because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” [7] Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? [8] If you are not disciplined---and everyone undergoes discipline---then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. [9] Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! [10] They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. [11] No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Ephesians 6:4 NIV
[4] Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Proverbs 15:31-32 NIV
[31] Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. [32] Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.
Proverbs 17:10 NIV
[10] A rebuke impresses a discerning person more than a hundred lashes a fool.
Proverbs 29:21 NIV
[21] A servant pampered from youth will turn out to be insolent.
Proverbs 29:15,17 NIV
[15] A rod and a reprimand impart wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother. [17] Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.
** Be careful of your response; at first assume ‘others don’t know the full story’ when their words and actions seem controversial
Proverbs 15:1 NIV
[1] A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:18 NIV
[18] A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.
Proverbs 15:23 NIV
[23] A person finds joy in giving an apt reply---and how good is a timely word!
** Take heed of an idle and slothful spirit. An idle life and a holy heart are far asunder. By doing nothing, men learn to do evil things. It is easy slipping out of an idle life, into an evil and wicked life. Yes, an idle life is of itself evil, for man was made to be active, not to be idle. Idleness is a mother-sin, a breeding-sin; it is the devil's cushion — on which he sits; and the devil's anvil — on which he frames very great and very many sins. Look! as toads and serpents breed most in standing waters, so sin thrives most in idle people. <B24>
1 Thessalonians 5:14 NIV
And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
Proverbs 6:6,9-11 NIV
[6] Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! [9] How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? [10] A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest--- [11] and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.
** Keep good company if you want to be rewarded with good things; there is a power when associating with the wise that helps build character and keep one from sin <M130>
Proverbs 13:20-21 NIV
[20] Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. [21] Trouble pursues the sinner, but the righteous are rewarded with good things.
Proverbs 16:29 NIV
[29] A violent person entices their neighbor and leads them down a path that is not good.
Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV
[24] Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, [25] or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.
Proverbs 23:20-21 NIV
[20] Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, [21] for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.
Proverbs 28:7 NIV
[7] A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.
** Friends, do not deceive yourselves! Old age is but a tottering and sinking foundation for you to build your eternal hopes and happiness upon--your eternal making or marring upon! Are the dog-days of old age--are the trembling hands, the wrinkled face, the failing eyes, the gasping lungs, the fainting heart, the feeble knees, and the broken down legs--are these a sacrifice worthy of a majestic God? Is a body full of sores, aches, and diseases--and a soul full of sin--an offering worthy of a holy God? Surely not!
Oh, what madness, what wickedness is this: to serve Satan, your lusts, and this world with full dishes--and to put off God with scraps! To serve Satan, your lusts, and this world in the flower, in the prime and primrose of your days--and to put off God with the dregs of old age! Oh, do not let Satan deceive you, do not let your own hearts delude you! <B24>
Numbers 23:10b NIV
[10] Let me die the death of the righteous, and may my final end be like theirs! ”
** Paul was discouraged/depressed because he found the Corinthian church he started in shallow waters and in deep practice of sin — some members demonstrating bickering, slandering, engaged in sexual sin, idol worship, believing false reports and questioning the resurrection; Paul’s heart was grieved over the spiritual condition of the church because of his love for them — love intensified discouragement.
Paul sent Titus to find out how they responded to his first letter (1 Cor) and missed the report; everything was going wrong. But Paul stood his ground and knew he needed to deal with this situation through the strength of God as protector and deliverer! God always leads to triumph in victory when we allow Him to lead us!
1 Timothy 1:12-17 NIV
[12] I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. [13] Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. [14] The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. [15] Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners---of whom I am the worst. [16] But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. [17] Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
** Only God can take the wrath (evil) of man and make it to glorify Him, for God will never allow Satan to do anything unless it serves His purpose for His kingdom and glory <F60>
Psalm 76:10 NIV
[10] Surely your wrath against mankind brings you praise, and the survivors of your wrath are restrained.
Genesis 50:19-20 NIV
[19] But Joseph said to them, “Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? [20] You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
** Christians should not be surprised by persecution in today’s world as has happened in the past; in 2019 alone over 3000 Christians were killed, over 10,000 churches destroyed, 4000 arrested for being Christian, most persecution happening from those in authority <M130>
Historically, when times get hard it purged the church; we are commissioned to preach the truth of God and Christ in the midst of troubling times, always looking to Him for strength and stamina and the results of our efforts because the Lord is with us!
2 Corinthians 2:12-17 NIV
[12] Now when I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and found that the Lord had opened a door for me, [13] I still had no peace of mind, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia. [14] But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ's triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. [15] For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. [16] To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? [17] Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.
Joshua 1:1-6 NIV
[1] After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses' aide: [2] “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them---to the Israelites. [3] I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. [4] Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates---all the Hittite country---to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. [5] No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. [6] Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.
Isaiah 41:8-13 NIV
[8] “But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend, [9] I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. [10] So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. [11] “All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish. [12] Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. [13] For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
** Proverbs contains the words of Solomon regarding how we are to live our lives; the prologue provides a summary of this book and how readers can be helped:
• for learning
• for insight
• for guidance of behavior
• to perform justly
• to give prudence to the naive
• to provide discretion for the young
• to increase learning for the older
• to understand wisdom
• to enhance the fear of the Lord (reverence and hate evil) through knowledge, and
• to reduce the folly of the foolish when despising wisdom and instruction
Proverbs 1:1-7 NIV
[1] The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: [2] for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; [3] for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; [4] for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young--- [5] let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance--- [6] for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. [7] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
** Solomon instructed his son to listen to his elders and beware of the greedy — those who want to take advantage of others — for they are ruthless and only end up destroying themselves
• Sadly, Solomon ended up not taking any of his own advice
• As we find out in the book of Ecclesiastes, he paid a heavy price for his folly and sin against God
• We learn that the ONLY thing that matters is to ‘fear God and keep His commandments’
Proverbs 1:8,10,15-16,18-19 NIV
[8] Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. [10] My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them. [15] my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; [16] for their feet rush into evil, they are swift to shed blood. [18] These men lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush only themselves! [19] Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the life of those who get it.
Proverbs 19:20,27 NIV
[20] Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. [27] Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
Proverbs 20:12 NIV
[12] Ears that hear and eyes that see---the Lord has made them both.
Proverbs 20:20 NIV
[20] If someone curses their father or mother, their lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.
Proverbs 20:29 NIV
[29] The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.
Proverbs 22:17-19 NIV
[17] Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, [18] for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips. [19] So that your trust may be in the Lord, I teach you today, even you.
Proverbs 22:28 NIV
[28] Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors.
Proverbs 23:10-11 NIV
[10] Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, [11] for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.
Proverbs 23:22 NIV
[22] Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.
Proverbs 23:6-8 NIV
[6] Do not eat the food of a begrudging host, do not crave his delicacies; [7] for he is the kind of person who is always thinking about the cost. “Eat and drink,” he says to you, but his heart is not with you. [8] You will vomit up the little you have eaten and will have wasted your compliments.
Proverbs 30:17 NIV
[17] “The eye that mocks a father, that scorns an aged mother, will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by the vultures.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 NIV
[13] Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. [14] For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.
** God desires that we share His sweet aroma of our belief, our witness, our knowledge with others — some will find this aroma pleasing while others will be repulsed by it; our life can have purpose when we share God’s aroma through our life that is devoted to God; we trust God will also find it pleasing!
2 Corinthians 2:14 NIV
[14] But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ's triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere.
2 Corinthians 2:15-17 NIV
[15] For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. [16] To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task?
2 Corinthians 5:9 NIV
[9] So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.
1 Peter 2:6-8 NIV
[6] For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” [7] Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” [8] and, “A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” They stumble because they disobey the message---which is also what they were destined for.
** Have Christians today lost the art of forgiveness, compassion and mercy?
1 Timothy 1:1-2 NIV
[1] Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, [2] To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Matthew 5:7 NIV
[7] Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Luke 6:37-38 NIV
[37] “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. [38] Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
James 2:13 NIV
[13] because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
The world simply has to read the infighting on social media to see that many followers succumb to arguing about the inane — often reacting to someone who comments and is looking for a fight. Satan loves when Christians devour one another and the pagan onlooker discounts the Christian way.
The world in these perilous times is looking at Christians asking whether we, as Christ followers, are the real-deal and asking whether what Christ proposes really works...? Many are looking for hope (a solution) and WANT the Christian way to work but easily look the other way when they see Christians being no-different than the rest of the world.
Instead of infighting, Christians are to LOVE one another and offer MERCY to those who set out to agitate. Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy! <F60>
John 13:34-35 NIV
[34] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Matthew 6:12 NIV
[12] And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
Micah 6:8 NIV
[8] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
** If you really believe that all things under the sun are vanity, why do you spend more thoughts and time on the world — than you do on Christ, Heaven and your immortal souls?
That man is doubtless upon the brink of ruin, whose worldly business eats up all his thoughts of God, of Christ, of Heaven, of eternity, and of his soul; who can find time for anything — but none to meet with God in his closet! A man may have enough of this world to sink him, but he can never have enough to satisfy him. <B24>
Ecclesiastes 1:2 NIV
[2] “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.”
** Bildad, Job’s friend, recognizes the wisdom in seeking knowledge from former generations
Job 8:8-10 NIV
[8] “Ask the former generation and find out what their ancestors learned, [9] for we were born only yesterday and know nothing, and our days on earth are but a shadow. [10] Will they not instruct you and tell you? Will they not bring forth words from their understanding?
** The heart of consecration is not devotion to this or that kind of service for Christ--but devotion to the Divine will, whatever God may ordain. It may not be any form of activity--sometimes it is quiet waiting. Consecration is not bringing a great many souls to Christ, attending a great many religious meetings, or teaching or preaching.
Some weary one, shut away in the darkness in the chamber of pain, may be illustrating true consecration far more beautifully than those whose hands are fullest of Christian activities in the bustling world.
Consecration is devotion to the will of God. It is readiness to do, not what we want to do in His service — but what He gives us to do. <M136>
1 Samuel 3:18 NIV
[18] So Samuel told him everything, hiding nothing from him. Then Eli said, “He is the Lord; let him do what is good in his eyes.”
Job 1:21 NIV
[21] “Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”
Acts 21:14 NIV
[14] When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord's will be done.”
** Job understood that following God did not guarantee a “good life” but followers must accept troubled times just as they welcome good times
Job 2:9-10 NIV
[9] His wife said to him, “Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!” [10] He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.
** If you would bear the loss of your dear relations with moderation, then eye God in the whole process of the affliction more, and secondary causes and circumstances of the matter less.
Consider the hand of the Lord in your affliction, particularly:
• As a sovereign hand, which has the right to dispose of you and all your comforts, without your permission or consent.
• As a father's hand, correcting you in love and faithfulness. "Whom the LORD loves He corrects, as a father the son in whom he delights." Oh, if once you could but see affliction as a rod in your heavenly father's hand, proceeding from His love, and intended for your eternal good--how submissive you would then be!
And surely if it draws your heart nearer to your God, and mortifies it more to this vain world--then it is a rod in the hand of His special love. If your trial ends in your love to God, doubt not but it comes from God's love to you.
• As a just and righteous hand. Yes, the Lord is just in all that has come upon you. Whatever He has done, He has done you no wrong.
• As a moderate and merciful hand, that has punished you less than your iniquities deserve. He who has cast you into affliction, might have justly cast you into Hell! It is of the Lord's mercy that you are not consumed.
Learn from the death of your loved ones: the vanity of the creature, and the emptiness and nothingness of the best things here below! Affliction is a bitter pill, which, being enrapt in patience and quiet submission, may be easily swallowed. But discontent chews the pill, and so embitters the soul. <F63>
Psalm 39:9 NIV
[9] I was silent; I would not open my mouth, for you are the one who has done this.
Job 2:10 NIV
[10] He replied, “...Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”
** Many in every age have disturbed society by stirring up the poor against the rich. But so long as the world is under the present order of things, universal equality cannot be attained.
So long as...
• some are wise, and some are foolish;
• some are strong, and some are weak;
• some are healthy, and some are diseased;
so long as
• children reap the fruit of their parent's misconduct;
• sun, and rain, and heat, and cold, and wind, and waves, and drought, and blight, and storm, and tempest are beyond man's control —
there be inequality in this world.
Take all the property in England by force this day, and divide it equally among the inhabitants. Give every person over twenty years old an equal portion. Let all share alike, and begin the world over again. Do this, and see where you would be at the end of fifty years. You would just have come round to the point where you began!
You would just find things as unequal as before...
• some would have worked, and some would have been lazy;
• some would have been always careless, and some always scheming;
• some would have sold, and others would have bought;
• some would have wasted, and others would have saved;
• and the end would be that some would be rich, and others would be poor.
We might as well say...
• that all people ought to be of the same height, weight, strength, and cleverness;
• or that all oak trees ought to be of the same shape and size;
• or that all blades of grass ought to be of the same length
— as that all people were meant to be equal.
Settle it in your mind that the main cause of all the suffering you see around you, is SIN. Sin is the grand cause...
• of the enormous luxury of the rich, and the painful degradation of the poor;
• of the heartless selfishness of the highest classes, and the helpless poverty of the lowest.
Sin must be first cast out of the world; the hearts of all people must be renewed and sanctified; the devil must be bound; the Prince of Peace must come down and take His great power and reign. All this must be before there ever can be universal happiness, or the gulf be filled up which now divides the rich and poor.
Beware of expecting a millennium to be brought about...
• by any method of government,
• by any system of education,
• or by any political party.
Labor to do good to all men; pity your poorer brethren, and help every reasonable endeavor to raise them from their low estate. Do not slacken your hand from any endeavor...
• to increase knowledge,
• to promote morality,
• to improve the temporal condition of the poor.
But never, never forget...
• that you live in a fallen world,
• that sin is all around you,
• and that the devil is abroad. <R170>
Deuteronomy 15:11 NIV
[11] There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land.
Mark 14:6-9 NIV
[6] “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. [7] The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. [8] She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. [9] Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”
** Eliphaz understood that resentment and envy are foolish and deadly for the human soul
Job 5:2-5 NIV
[2] Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple. [3] I myself have seen a fool taking root, but suddenly his house was cursed. [4] His children are far from safety, crushed in court without a defender. [5] The hungry consume his harvest, taking it even from among thorns, and the thirsty pant after his wealth.
** Esther instructs Mordecai and all Jews in the land to fast and pray for three days before she approached the king, accepting the fact that God may or may not save her life
Esther 4:15-16 NIV
[15] Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: [16] “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
** The Jewish population celebrated the success of Mordecai and God’s provision
Esther 8:17 NIV
[17] In every province and in every city to which the edict of the king came, there was joy and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating. And many people of other nationalities became Jews because fear of the Jews had seized them.
** Paul is saying that Christians need to be “well dressed”, clothing ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience and love; the world is watching us and desire to see us in this light; the fruit of the Holy Spirit that enables us to do these!
COMPASSION - it is so rare that people are often cynical when receiving it; we would be more compassionate if we knew what people were going through
KINDNESS - sometimes all we need to do is saying a kind word or leave a decent tip; as the kindness of God leads to salvation so our kindness is witness to Christ in our lives
HUMILITY - the opposite of being proud which is most like Satan; Jesus, of a humble heart, loved the children who were attracted to Him; we should emulate Christ so we are approachable
GENTLENESS - the opposite being hard and tough; it isn’t so much what you say as how you say it; delivery is 70% of the message
PATIENCE - equivalent to long-suffering; how attractive is genuine patience, not just obligatory patience to get your way
FORGIVENESS - do you hold on to bitterness and resentment, then that willful act of obstinance will destroy; think about how MANY times God had forgiven you!
LOVE - when you love others you are willing to do the rest; love binds all together and is a product of the Holy Spirit <F60>
Colossians 3:12-14 NIV
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. [13] Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. [14] And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
** Hezekiah consulted his military officials when realizing Sennacherib invaded Judah and encouraged the people to be courageous because God was with them
2 Chronicles 32:1-4 NIV
[1] After all that Hezekiah had so faithfully done, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah. He laid siege to the fortified cities, thinking to conquer them for himself. [2] When Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come and that he intended to wage war against Jerusalem, [3] he consulted with his officials and military staff about blocking off the water from the springs outside the city, and they helped him. [4] They gathered a large group of people who blocked all the springs and the stream that flowed through the land. “Why should the kings of Assyria come and find plenty of water?” they said.
2 Chronicles 32:7-8 NIV
[7] “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. [8] With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said.
** God will retrieve every single injustice, every single time, every single activity, every single deed, that has ever broken His holy law and tarnished His beautiful world and damaged His image bearers. Every one of those moments will be answerable to God, every tear, and every sighing sorrow for my wrongs whether through things I have done or had done to me. Each one will be sought out by God who is perfect justice, truth, mercy and love. <G792>
** While we are instructed to keep our gaze upwards, we must not neglect the needs of those in front of us. Jesus said, behold the fields are white for harvest (John 4:34-36). We must hold fast and become salt and light to a nation whose light is quickly being drowned out by the darkness of our age.
Jesus said that He would build His Church and the gates of hell would not prevail against it. When the Church is pulled up, the world will come apart rather quickly. In the time being, we must do our best to make our nation a safe place for our children to live untainted by sin, corruption, apostasy, and violence for as long as we can.
We must stand, for as long as we can, even though we have little strength (Rev. 3:8). We must not roll over and let the world become what its master, Satan, wants it to become (1 John 5:19). <G70> (Jul 2020)
1 Timothy 2:1-4 NIV
[1] I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people--- [2] for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. [3] This is good, and pleases God our Savior, [4] who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
** The Israelites rejoiced because the leaders were willing to give of themselves and their possessions; David recognized that all gifts come from God so they were just giving back to God what is already His
1 Chronicles 29:6-9 NIV
[6] Then the leaders of families, the officers of the tribes of Israel, the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds, and the officials in charge of the king's work gave willingly. [7] They gave toward the work on the temple of God five thousand talents and ten thousand darics of gold, ten thousand talents of silver, eighteen thousand talents of bronze and a hundred thousand talents of iron. [8] Anyone who had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the temple of the Lord in the custody of Jehiel the Gershonite. [9] The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly.
1 Chronicles 29:14,16 NIV
[14] “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. [16] Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you.
** The king opened and repaired the temple even though many mocked him for doing so; there were, however, some who humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem
2 Chronicles 30:10 KJV
[10] So the posts passed from city to city through the country of Ephraim and Manasseh even unto Zebulun: but they laughed them to scorn, and mocked them.
2 Chronicles 30:10-11 NIV
[10] The couriers went from town to town in Ephraim and Manasseh, as far as Zebulun, but people scorned and ridiculed them. [11] Nevertheless, some from Asher, Manasseh and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem
** Even though the first reaction was to scoff at the king who encouraged them to return to the Lord, the “hand of God” moved them to assemble and rejoice; the Lord heard them for their prayers reached heaven
2 Chronicles 30:10-12 NIV
[10] The couriers went from town to town in Ephraim and Manasseh, as far as Zebulun, but people scorned and ridiculed them. [11] Nevertheless, some from Asher, Manasseh and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem. [12] Also in Judah the hand of God was on the people to give them unity of mind to carry out what the king and his officials had ordered, following the word of the Lord.
2 Chronicles 30:25-27 NIV
[25] The entire assembly of Judah rejoiced, along with the priests and Levites and all who had assembled from Israel, including the foreigners who had come from Israel and also those who resided in Judah. [26] There was great joy in Jerusalem, for since the days of Solomon son of David king of Israel there had been nothing like this in Jerusalem. [27] The priests and the Levites stood to bless the people, and God heard them, for their prayer reached heaven, his holy dwelling place.
2 Chronicles 31:1 NIV
[1] When all this had ended, the Israelites who were there went out to the towns of Judah, smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles. They destroyed the high places and the altars throughout Judah and Benjamin and in Ephraim and Manasseh. After they had destroyed all of them, the Israelites returned to their own towns and to their own property.
** God continues to provide gifts to His children to be used in His service
1 Chronicles 15:22 NIV
[22] Kenaniah the head Levite was in charge of the singing; that was his responsibility because he was skillful at it.
** When Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem he learned of infractions made by the people and immediately corrected them, including desecrating the Sabbath
Nehemiah 13:6-9 NIV
[6] But while all this was going on, I was not in Jerusalem, for in the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon I had returned to the king. Some time later I asked his permission [7] and came back to Jerusalem. Here I learned about the evil thing Eliashib had done in providing Tobiah a room in the courts of the house of God. [8] I was greatly displeased and threw all Tobiah's household goods out of the room. [9] I gave orders to purify the rooms, and then I put back into them the equipment of the house of God, with the grain offerings and the incense.
Nehemiah 13:10-12 NIV
[10] I also learned that the portions assigned to the Levites had not been given to them, and that all the Levites and musicians responsible for the service had gone back to their own fields. [11] So I rebuked the officials and asked them, “Why is the house of God neglected?” Then I called them together and stationed them at their posts. [12] All Judah brought the tithes of grain, new wine and olive oil into the storerooms.
Nehemiah 13:15,17-18 NIV
[15] In those days I saw people in Judah treading winepresses on the Sabbath and bringing in grain and loading it on donkeys, together with wine, grapes, figs and all other kinds of loads. And they were bringing all this into Jerusalem on the Sabbath. Therefore I warned them against selling food on that day. [17] I rebuked the nobles of Judah and said to them, “What is this wicked thing you are doing---desecrating the Sabbath day? [18] Didn't your ancestors do the same things, so that our God brought all this calamity on us and on this city? Now you are stirring up more wrath against Israel by desecrating the Sabbath.”
Nehemiah 13:23-25,30 NIV
[23] Moreover, in those days I saw men of Judah who had married women from Ashdod, Ammon and Moab. [24] Half of their children spoke the language of Ashdod or the language of one of the other peoples, and did not know how to speak the language of Judah. [25] I rebuked them and called curses down on them. I beat some of the men and pulled out their hair. I made them take an oath in God's name and said: “You are not to give your daughters in marriage to their sons, nor are you to take their daughters in marriage for your sons or for yourselves. [30] So I purified the priests and the Levites of everything foreign, and assigned them duties, each to his own task.
** Moses confronting the evil Pharaoh and releasing the 10 plagues is foreshadowing of what the end times will hold for the Antichrist, only there will be 28 plagues at that time; Pharaoh thought he was god as the Antichrist will believe he is god <H86>
Exodus 5:1-2ff NIV
[1] Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the wilderness.' ” [2] Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.”
• Egypt=world
• According to Paul, leaving=salvation
• Walking through desert=spiritual immaturity
• Going through Red Sea=baptism
• Entering promised land=maturity
Moses and Aaron approach Pharaoh identifying the spiritual battle — God vs evil — and provides a good example of how to confront others
We are commanded to confront:
Ezekiel 3:18-19 NIV
[18] When I say to a wicked person, 'You will surely die, ' and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways in order to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. [19] But if you do warn the wicked person and they do not turn from their wickedness or from their evil ways, they will die for their sin; but you will have saved yourself.
Confronting Others:
• Stating the truth (no debate) with grace and mercy
• Working within “the system”
• Being objective (non emotional) toward who is being confronted
• Showing how their behavior is affecting others
• Making a demand for change (no threat) and finding what discomfort level gets their attention, as a parent disciplines their children
• Convey how the change will benefit THEM
Reasons we don’t confront:
• We don’t want to lose the relationship
• Fear of being the object of retaliation
• Thinking fear is hurtful instead of helping
• Don’t want to be perceived as being bad
The classic response is for them to try to divide and conquer, as Pharaoh was successful in getting the Israelites to blame Moses instead of Pharaoh; separate the people from their leader; people tend to surround themselves with those who do not challenge but enable their behavior
Exodus 5:20-21 NIV
[20] When they left Pharaoh, they found Moses and Aaron waiting to meet them, [21] and they said, “May the Lord look on you and judge you! You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.”
** As leader, Nehemiah appointed those who were upstanding in character to serve the Lord; special care was taken to make sure they were direct descendants of Israel
Nehemiah 7:2 NIV
[2] I put in charge of Jerusalem my brother Hanani, along with Hananiah the commander of the citadel, because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most people do.
Nehemiah 7:63-64 NIV
[63] And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, Hakkoz and Barzillai (a man who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by that name). [64] These searched for their family records, but they could not find them and so were excluded from the priesthood as unclean.
** Nehemiah called the Jewish officials on their greediness and they could not refute his accusation; they consequently agreed to rectify the situation
• There was injustice in Judah’s society, for the wealthy oppressed the poor
• Rather than follow God’s laws, they loaned money at high interest, claimed land, and forced families into servitude in payment of a debt
• Nehemiah confronted the practice because he himself was blameless
• Unlike other governors who lived by taxing their subjects, Nehemiah had paid all the expenses of his office himself! <R1795>
Nehemiah 5:6-8 NIV
[6] When I heard their outcry and these charges, I was very angry. [7] I pondered them in my mind and then accused the nobles and officials. I told them, “You are charging your own people interest!” So I called together a large meeting to deal with them [8] and said: “As far as possible, we have bought back our fellow Jews who were sold to the Gentiles. Now you are selling your own people, only for them to be sold back to us!” They kept quiet, because they could find nothing to say.
Nehemiah 5:11-12 NIV
[11] Give back to them immediately their fields, vineyards, olive groves and houses, and also the interest you are charging them---one percent of the money, grain, new wine and olive oil.” [12] “We will give it back,” they said. “And we will not demand anything more from them. We will do as you say.” Then I summoned the priests and made the nobles and officials take an oath to do what they had promised.
** While he could take advantage of the surplus as governor and lord it over others as previous governors had, Nehemiah was not hypocritical for he held himself to the same standard as his fellow man
Nehemiah 5:14-16 NIV
[14] Moreover, from the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, until his thirty-second year---twelve years---neither I nor my brothers ate the food allotted to the governor. [15] But the earlier governors---those preceding me---placed a heavy burden on the people and took forty shekels of silver from them in addition to food and wine. Their assistants also lorded it over the people. But out of reverence for God I did not act like that. [16] Instead, I devoted myself to the work on this wall. All my men were assembled there for the work; we did not acquire any land.
Nehemiah 5:19 NIV
[19] Remember me with favor, my God, for all I have done for these people.
** The Jews asked God to block their opposition so they could move ahead with the project, not giving power to those who wanted them to fail
Nehemiah 4:4,9 NIV
[4] Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. [9] But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.
Nehemiah 4:6 NIV
[6] So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.
Nehemiah 4:13-15 NIV
[13] Therefore I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall at the exposed places, posting them by families, with their swords, spears and bows. [14] After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, “Don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.” [15] When our enemies heard that we were aware of their plot and that God had frustrated it, we all returned to the wall, each to our own work.
** The opposition to the rebuilding project made things more difficult and took longer to complete, but the Jews persisted with the prayerful help of God
Nehemiah 4:16-18 NIV
[16] From that day on, half of my men did the work, while the other half were equipped with spears, shields, bows and armor. The officers posted themselves behind all the people of Judah [17] who were building the wall. Those who carried materials did their work with one hand and held a weapon in the other, [18] and each of the builders wore his sword at his side as he worked. But the man who sounded the trumpet stayed with me.
Nehemiah 4:22-23 NIV
[22] At that time I also said to the people, “Have every man and his helper stay inside Jerusalem at night, so they can serve us as guards by night and as workers by day.” [23] Neither I nor my brothers nor my men nor the guards with me took off our clothes; each had his weapon, even when he went for water.
** We profess a difference between ourselves and the unsaved, as radical as that between light and darkness, and almost as wide as that between Heaven and Hell. But in all the visible and practical concerns which interest the unrenewed heart--we nearly resemble them.
• Our words say that we believe riches to be vanity and emptiness.
• Our acts seem to say that we love and seek them as intensely as those do who make them their all and their god.
We say in words that "here we have no continuing city," but in act we are as eager to adorn our dwellings here as though they were our only home. What is the result? The world believes our conduct, and not our words! <D46>
Philippians 1:27 NIV
[27] Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel
2 Peter 3:11 NIV
[11] Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives
Philippians 2:14-15 NIV
[14] Do everything without grumbling or arguing, [15] so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky
** Elisha asked God to open the eyes of his servant to see how they are protected by God even though the situation looked bleak
• When Elisha’s servant saw the enemy army surrounding the city where they had slept, he was terrified
• But when Elisha prayed, God let the servant see what Elisha knew was there: a protective army of flaming angels between them and the enemy! <R1795>
• ‘Chariots of fire’ (heavenly vehicles) can be termed as modern UFO or ‘beings not of this world’ or the ‘prince of the power of the air’
• Have no fear because our God is greater than any spiritual being <S195>
• Also, judgment on Judah came out of the north; its terror was depicted by a fiery whirlwind emblematic of God’s judgments and threats golden brightness signifying dazzling glory <M130>
• There exist numerous passages reminding us we live in a spiritual world and that heavenly forces surround us!
2 Kings 6:15-17 NIV
[15] When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked. [16] “Don't be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” [17] And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
2 Kings 2:11 NIV
[11] As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind.
Daniel 7:10 NIV
[10] A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The court was seated, and the books were opened.
Ezekiel 1:4-6 NIV
[4] I looked, and I saw a windstorm coming out of the north---an immense cloud with flashing lightning and surrounded by brilliant light. The center of the fire looked like glowing metal, [5] and in the fire was what looked like four living creatures. In appearance their form was human, [6] but each of them had four faces and four wings.
Exodus 18:11 NIV
[11] Now I know that the Lord is greater than all other gods, for he did this to those who had treated Israel arrogantly.”
** David gave Solomon words of advice before he died
• In essence, David told Solomon to act like a man and obey God's commands so he would prosper in all he does, continuing to fulfill promises
• David exhorted Solomon to be faithful to God
• Faith in God with love for Him and dedication to obedience is the most important heritage we can pass on to our children <R1795>
1 Kings 2:1-3 NIV
[1] When the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son. [2] “I am about to go the way of all the earth,” he said. “So be strong, act like a man, [3] and observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in obedience to him, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and regulations, as written in the Law of Moses. Do this so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go
1 Kings 2:4 NIV
[4] and that the Lord may keep his promise to me: ‘If your descendants watch how they live, and if they walk faithfully before me with all their heart and soul, you will never fail to have a successor on the throne of Israel.’
** Paul writes to the early church Gentiles who showed signs of jealously toward the chosen Jews. This passage makes it clear that Replacement Theology reasoning is simply wrong. Gentiles are not to be haughty or proud or jealous that the Jewish people have a special place with God, but rather support God’s promises to Israel!
For a) the root supports us, we do not support the root and b) Gentiles are partakers, not overtakers of the faith. If Gentiles can be grafted in to an olive tree (the nation of Israel and its blessings), how much more can God graft in the natural (Jewish) branches.
Romans 11:17-24 NIV
[17] If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, [18] do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. [19] You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” [20] Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. [21] For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either. [22] Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. [23] And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. [24] After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!
** Again, David shows his servant-leadership by taking responsibility for his actions and being willing to take on the punishment instead of others
2 Samuel 24:17 NIV
[17] When David saw the angel who was striking down the people, he said to the Lord, “I have sinned; I, the shepherd, have done wrong. These are but sheep. What have they done? Let your hand fall on me and my family.”
** Jealousy existed between the Gentiles toward the Jews in the early church as there was throughout the centuries, hence the popular belief in Replacement Theology; Paul addresses this by telling the Gentiles not to be haughty but fear God, for the same unbelief that destroyed the Jews could happen to them; the natural tree and roots are the Jews whom God supports
Romans 11:17-21 NIV
[17] If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, [18] do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. [19] You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” [20] Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. [21] For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.
** David's friend Jonathan helped him gain strength and peace in God
• This final meeting of the two friends reminds us how significant Jonathan was in the life of the younger David
• Jonathan had saved his life and now, when David seemed to have no future, Jonathan expressed his conviction that the Lord would make David king
• Jonathan was willing to take second place
• Even though Jonathan would have made a great and godly ruler, his role in life was to be a great and godly friend
• We too can be the kind of friend who helps others find strength in God <R1795>
1 Samuel 23:15-17 NIV
[15] While David was at Horesh in the Desert of Ziph, he learned that Saul had come out to take his life. [16] And Saul’s son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. [17] “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be second to you. Even my father Saul knows this.”
** I grieve to see so much conformity to the world among Christians. How many Christians follow the fashions of this wicked world. If you profess to know Christ, have nothing to do with a sinful world. Shake off the viper into the fire, for it will poison you and destroy you! <S185>
** Many churches today have people who come only to see what God can give them: health, wealth and prosperity. But in truth, the path to growth in Jesus, the path to maturity is how much we can give and/or give up for Him, His causes and His Kingdom. Who will be wholly invested like Jesus was? He was wholly invested right down to His beaten body and shed blood. What about you and me? Are we sacrifices for and to Him? If not, what are we doing with the salvation that Jesus bought for us? <G791>
** Christians experiencing God’s grace and blessings, reflect His goodness and testify to His salvation among the nations
Psalm 67:1-2 NIV
[1] May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us--- [2] so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations.
** What a wonderful witness we can be to others when our lives emulate God and follow His commands; we can be the one God uses to bless others
Ruth 2:19-20 NIV
[19] Her mother-in-law asked her, “Where did you glean today? Where did you work? Blessed be the man who took notice of you! ” Then Ruth told her mother-in-law about the one at whose place she had been working. “The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,” she said. [20] “The Lord bless him! ” Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. “He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.” She added, “That man is our close relative; he is one of our guardian-redeemers. ”
Boaz protects Ruth in her new-found commitment and dependance on God, like God who is often portrayed as a mother bird protecting her young
Ruth 2:12 NIV
[12] May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge. ”
Psalm 91:4 NIV
[4] He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
Psalm 17:8 NIV
[8] Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings
Psalm 36:7 NIV
[7] How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
** All the trials and afflictions the believer meets with in this life, are for the promotion of . . .
our growth in grace,
the true knowledge of self,
love to Christ, and
faith in our covenant God and Father.
Christ's rough-hewn diamonds are precious to Him, but it is His polished ones that shine the brightest, and most reflect His holy image, and have the most conspicuous place among His jewels. Though the process of polishing is often painful to the flesh and trying to the spirit--yet the result is worth it all, for that result is "a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory!" <M141>
** The leader Samuel was recognized as judge of domestic and war-time conduct
• Samuel judged the people and they responded through a maturing faith in God
• When he promised that God would deliver His people from Philistine oppression, he was believed
• He also served as Israel's judge all the days of his life; he was Israel’s last judge
1 Samuel 7:15-16 NIV
[15] Samuel continued as Israel’s leader all the days of his life. [16] From year to year he went on a circuit from Bethel to Gilgal to Mizpah, judging Israel in all those places.
1 Samuel 8:5 NIV
[5] They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.”
** Let us never think that we have learned a doctrine, until we have seen its fruit in our lives. <S185>
** Life is but a short breath until death
Psalm 89:47-48 NIV
[47] Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all humanity! [48] Who can live and not see death, or who can escape the power of the grave?
** We are to remember how God worked in our life and teach the next generation of His marvelous works
Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV
[9] Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
Deuteronomy 4:32-34 NIV
[32] Ask now about the former days, long before your time, from the day God created human beings on the earth; ask from one end of the heavens to the other. Has anything so great as this ever happened, or has anything like it ever been heard of? [33] Has any other people heard the voice of God speaking out of fire, as you have, and lived? [34] Has any god ever tried to take for himself one nation out of another nation, by testings, by signs and wonders, by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, or by great and awesome deeds, like all the things the Lord your God did for you in Egypt before your very eyes?
Deuteronomy 4:40 NIV
[40] Keep his decrees and commands, which I am giving you today, so that it may go well with you and your children after you and that you may live long in the land the Lord your God gives you for all time.
** Teach others using truths from past generations; it is our responsibility to pass on God’s praiseworthy deeds, power and wonders to future generations
• To quote Thucydides, "History will be of value in time to come"
• Human nature is the same throughout the generations, with the same ideas and agendas reappearing in different contexts
• In essence, we are people that are the same as the ancient Greeks and Romans with appetites that drive us <H996>
• How crucial it is to teach future generations how God has worked with past generations!
Psalm 78:1-4 NIV
[1] My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. [2] I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old--- [3] things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. [4] We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.
Psalm 78:5-6 NIV
[5] He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, [6] so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.
** We are to teach God’s truths to the next generation so they will learn from their predecessors and not be rebellious
Psalm 78:5-8 NIV
[5] He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, [6] so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. [7] Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. [8] They would not be like their ancestors---a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him.
** Moses reminds the Israelites how their children did not witness the Lord God's discipline and marvelous deeds; they were to teach their children from generation to generation so they will obey the Lord and He would continue to bless them
Deuteronomy 11:2,5,7 NIV
[2] Remember today that your children were not the ones who saw and experienced the discipline of the Lord your God: his majesty, his mighty hand, his outstretched arm; [5] It was not your children who saw what he did for you in the wilderness until you arrived at this place, [7] But it was your own eyes that saw all these great things the Lord has done.
Deuteronomy 11:18-21 NIV
[18] Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. [19] Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. [20] Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, [21] so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.
** We will be held responsible for our decisions and subsequent actions
Leviticus 17:15-16 NIV
[15] “ ‘Anyone, whether native-born or foreigner, who eats anything found dead or torn by wild animals must wash their clothes and bathe with water, and they will be ceremonially unclean till evening; then they will be clean. [16] But if they do not wash their clothes and bathe themselves, they will be held responsible.'”
** Observing others who live in sin should help us from doing similar practices; we cannot live in sin and expect God's blessing!
Deuteronomy 29:16-18 NIV
[16] You yourselves know how we lived in Egypt and how we passed through the countries on the way here. [17] You saw among them their detestable images and idols of wood and stone, of silver and gold. [18] Make sure there is no man or woman, clan or tribe among you today whose heart turns away from the Lord our God to go and worship the gods of those nations; make sure there is no root among you that produces such bitter poison.
Deuteronomy 29:19 NIV
[19] When such a person hears the words of this oath and they invoke a blessing on themselves, thinking, “I will be safe, even though I persist in going my own way,” they will bring disaster on the watered land as well as the dry.
** The concept of restitution was understood by the Israelite community
Leviticus 24:17-21 NIV
[17] “ ‘Anyone who takes the life of a human being is to be put to death. [18] Anyone who takes the life of someone’s animal must make restitution---life for life. [19] Anyone who injures their neighbor is to be injured in the same manner: [20] fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth. The one who has inflicted the injury must suffer the same injury. [21] Whoever kills an animal must make restitution, but whoever kills a human being is to be put to death.
** God's people are to hold each other accountable to God's law otherwise share in the abuser's guilt
Leviticus 19:17 NIV
[17] “ ‘Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.
** God commanded the purging of evil from the Israelite community; there should remain a degree of accountability in the Christian community today based on testimony from two or three witnesses
Deuteronomy 17:2-5 NIV
[2] If a man or woman living among you in one of the towns the Lord gives you is found doing evil in the eyes of the Lord your God in violation of his covenant, [3] and contrary to my command has worshiped other gods, bowing down to them or to the sun or the moon or the stars in the sky, [4] and this has been brought to your attention, then you must investigate it thoroughly. If it is true and it has been proved that this detestable thing has been done in Israel, [5] take the man or woman who has done this evil deed to your city gate and stone that person to death.
Deuteronomy 17:6-7 NIV
[6] On the testimony of two or three witnesses a person is to be put to death, but no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only one witness. [7] The hands of the witnesses must be the first in putting that person to death, and then the hands of all the people. You must purge the evil from among you.
Deuteronomy 19:15 NIV
[15] One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.
** The Lord provides specific skills and abilities to certain individuals to accomplish His will
Exodus 35:30-34 NIV
[30] Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, [31] and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills--- [32] to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, [33] to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts. [34] And he has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others.
Exodus 36:1 NIV
[1] So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the Lord has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the Lord has commanded.”
** God introduced procedures for Israelites to follow that were separate from the surrounding culture; God designated a place of worship for the Israelites entering the new land with provision for practical difficulties
Deuteronomy 12:8 NIV
[8] You are not to do as we do here today, everyone doing as they see fit,
Deuteronomy 12:11-14 NIV
[11] Then to the place the Lord your God will choose as a dwelling for his Name---there you are to bring everything I command you: your burnt offerings and sacrifices, your tithes and special gifts, and all the choice possessions you have vowed to the Lord. [12] And there rejoice before the Lord your God---you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levites from your towns who have no allotment or inheritance of their own. [13] Be careful not to sacrifice your burnt offerings anywhere you please. [14] Offer them only at the place the Lord will choose in one of your tribes, and there observe everything I command you.
Deuteronomy 12:21 NIV
[21] If the place where the Lord your God chooses to put his Name is too far away from you, you may slaughter animals from the herds and flocks the Lord has given you, as I have commanded you, and in your own towns you may eat as much of them as you want.
** Moses, as current leader of the Israelites, was to encourage and instruct Joshua as leader of the next generation
Deuteronomy 3:28 NIV
[28] But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see.”
** After hearing about the warring trouble, Abram gathered his troops to rescue Lot's nephew and possessions
Genesis 14:14-16 NIV
[14] When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he called out the 318 trained men born in his household and went in pursuit as far as Dan. [15] During the night Abram divided his men to attack them and he routed them, pursuing them as far as Hobah, north of Damascus. [16] He recovered all the goods and brought back his relative Lot and his possessions, together with the women and the other people.
** The previously-defeated kings recognized the Lord God was with Abram to deliver the enemy into his hands
Genesis 14:18-20 NIV
[18] Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, [19] and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. [20] And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.
** Abram was wise to not accept any reward from the previously-defeated kings for the (war) victory so no one could take credit for God's blessings to Abram and his descendants
Genesis 14:21-24 NIV
[21] The king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the people and keep the goods for yourself.” [22] But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “With raised hand I have sworn an oath to the Lord, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, [23] that I will accept nothing belonging to you, not even a thread or the strap of a sandal, so that you will never be able to say, ‘I made Abram rich.’ [24] I will accept nothing but what my men have eaten and the share that belongs to the men who went with me---to Aner, Eshkol and Mamre. Let them have their share.”
** Jethro recognized a problem with Moses' method of administration and offered a wise suggestion, showing the importance of elder counsel
Woven into Jethro's advice were statements about God and virtues of godly men that cause one to respect this man as having his newfound faith integrated into his thinking. Indeed, Jethro recognized that Moses needed divine permission to enact his advice (vs 23) <M130>
Exodus 18:13-16 NIV
[13] The next day Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. [14] When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, “What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as judge, while all these people stand around you from morning till evening?” [15] Moses answered him, “Because the people come to me to seek God’s will. [16] Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me, and I decide between the parties and inform them of God’s decrees and instructions.”
Exodus 18:17-23 NIV
[17] Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good. [18] You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. [19] Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their disputes to him. [20] Teach them his decrees and instructions, and show them the way they are to live and how they are to behave. [21] But select capable men from all the people---men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain---and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. [22] Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. [23] If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.”
** Moses provides us a good example of leadership willing to listen to godly advice
Exodus 18:24-26 NIV
[24] Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. [25] He chose capable men from all Israel and made them leaders of the people, officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. [26] They served as judges for the people at all times. The difficult cases they brought to Moses, but the simple ones they decided themselves.
** God outlines 'godly business practice', including possession of honest weights and considering the poor when going about business
Deuteronomy 25:13-16 NIV
[13] Do not have two differing weights in your bag---one heavy, one light. [14] Do not have two differing measures in your house---one large, one small. [15] You must have accurate and honest weights and measures, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. [16] For the Lord your God detests anyone who does these things, anyone who deals dishonestly.
Deuteronomy 24:10-13 NIV
[10] When you make a loan of any kind to your neighbor, do not go into their house to get what is offered to you as a pledge. [11] Stay outside and let the neighbor to whom you are making the loan bring the pledge out to you. [12] If the neighbor is poor, do not go to sleep with their pledge in your possession. [13] Return their cloak by sunset so that your neighbor may sleep in it. Then they will thank you, and it will be regarded as a righteous act in the sight of the Lord your God.
Deuteronomy 24:14-15 NIV
[14] Do not take advantage of a hired worker who is poor and needy, whether that worker is a fellow Israelite or a foreigner residing in one of your towns. [15] Pay them their wages each day before sunset, because they are poor and are counting on it. Otherwise they may cry to the Lord against you, and you will be guilty of sin.
Deuteronomy 24:19-21 NIV
[19] When you are harvesting in your field and you overlook a sheaf, do not go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. [20] When you beat the olives from your trees, do not go over the branches a second time. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow. [21] When you harvest the grapes in your vineyard, do not go over the vines again. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow.
** Charging interest in a business deal was not acceptable except if it furthered the plight of the one borrowing, especially a fellow Israelite
Exodus 22:25 NIV
[25] “If you lend money to one of my people among you who is needy, do not treat it like a business deal; charge no interest.
Deuteronomy 23:19-20 NIV
[19] Do not charge a fellow Israelite interest, whether on money or food or anything else that may earn interest. [20] You may charge a foreigner interest, but not a fellow Israelite, so that the Lord your God may bless you in everything you put your hand to in the land you are entering to possess.
Psalm 15:1,5 NIV
[1] Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [5] who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.
Exodus 23:1,6-7 NIV
[1] “Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness. [6] “Do not deny justice to your poor people in their lawsuits. [7] Have nothing to do with a false charge and do not put an innocent or honest person to death, for I will not acquit the guilty.
** God's people were to remember their commitment to Him through their actions and dedication of possessions
Exodus 22:28-30 NIV
[28] “Do not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people. [29] “Do not hold back offerings from your granaries or your vats. “You must give me the firstborn of your sons. [30] Do the same with your cattle and your sheep. Let them stay with their mothers for seven days, but give them to me on the eighth day.
** Man gets in trouble when he has time on his hands and when God does not seem near and he is in 'waiting mode'
Exodus 32:1 NIV
[1] When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.”
** David knew what it is like for a dear friend to abandon him, which was worse than if he were physically confronted by enemies
• David’s trusted friend Ahithophel who provided counsel when David asked, supported Absalom (David’s son) who gathered thousands of men to bring David down
• Ahithophel was grandfather to Bathsheba and did not forgive David for committing adultery; this Psalm deals with unresolved bitterness and ultimate vengeance
“Professors of religion take sweet counsel together, when they communicate with each other what light and knowledge they have in the mysteries of the Gospel, and converse about the experience and mysteries and secrets of internal godliness, and give and take advice in spiritual things; and sad it is when anyone of these drops their profession... when any of these forsake the assembling of themselves... it is very shocking, cutting and grieving indeed.” <C399>
Psalm 55:12-14 NIV
[12] If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. [13] But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, [14] with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers.
Psalm 55:20-21 NIV
[20] My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant. [21] His talk is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.
Hebrews 12:15 NIV
[15] See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.
Hebrews 10:24-27 NIV
[24] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, [25] not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another---and all the more as you see the Day approaching. [26] If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, [27] but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God.
** Strive for full restoration through repentance so you can be of one mind and encourage one another while living in peace; in turn, the God of love and peace will be with us!
2 Corinthians 13:11 NIV
[11] Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
** God warns us about the power of the tongue, and David provides an example of its power and damage in Psalm 59
Psalm 59:7,12-13 NIV
[7] See what they spew from their mouths---the words from their lips are sharp as swords, and they think, “Who can hear us?” [12] For the sins of their mouths, for the words of their lips, let them be caught in their pride. For the curses and lies they utter, [13] consume them in your wrath, consume them till they are no more. Then it will be known to the ends of the earth that God rules over Jacob.
Psalm 55:21 NIV
[21] His talk is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.
Romans 3:13 NIV
[13] “Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit.” “The poison of vipers is on their lips.”
James 3:6 NIV
[6] The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
** Paul did not view disagreement with the false teachers as mere academic debate, for the souls of the Corinthians and purity of the gospel was at stake <M130>
2 Corinthians 11:19-21 NIV
[19] You gladly put up with fools since you are so wise! [20] In fact, you even put up with anyone who enslaves you or exploits you or takes advantage of you or puts on airs or slaps you in the face. [21] To my shame I admit that we were too weak for that! Whatever anyone else dares to boast about---I am speaking as a fool---I also dare to boast about.
** Involve two or three witnesses if a dispute cannot be resolved between two parties; bringing the issue out in the open allows others to learn from it
2 Corinthians 13:1b NIV
[1] “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”
Matthew 18:16 NIV
[16] But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'
1 Timothy 5:19-20 NIV
[19] Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. [20] But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.
** Results of God working through our ministry should be reflected in the hearts of those around us
• In the earlier age, ministry involved teaching the commandments and lifestyle God ordained for the Jews
• In the present age, ministry involves sharing the Good News of Jesus and opening hearts to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit
• Paul tells us there is one unmistakable mark of New Covenant ministry: people are transformed
• What was once written in stone is now written on the heart <R1795>
2 Corinthians 3:1-3 NIV
[1] Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? [2] You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. [3] You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
2 Corinthians 3:5 NIV
[5] Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.
** Christians who look after the needs of the poor will be rewarded with “righteousness forever”
2 Corinthians 9:9 NIV
[9] As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.”
** Recipients of your generous gifts will remember you in their prayers
2 Corinthians 9:14 NIV
[14] And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you.
** God is present when two or more are gathered in His name; it can be argued small gatherings of believers make up the church when meeting for fellowship, worship and with the express purpose of maturing through God’s word
Matthew 18:20 NIV
[20] For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
** Paul identifies himself as a living example of God’s grace, for after Paul repented, God turned him from killing Christians to loving and shepherding them!
1 Corinthians 15:9-10 NIV
[9] For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. [10] But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them---yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.
** Christians are to follow Paul’s example meeting others where they are in order to effectively present the gospel
Paul behaved toward his listeners with all meekness and humility, condescending to their weakness and accommodating himself to their capacities and customs <B296>
1 Corinthians 9:19-23 NIV
[19] Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. [20] To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. [21] To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. [22] To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. [23] I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV
[1] Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
** Paul writes to those who are sensible and willing to reason
1 Corinthians 10:15 NIV
[15] I speak to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say.
** While we may consider ourselves “special” and apart from others, God reminds us we are one body with our brothers and sisters in Christ; as we work with each other we are not to cause anyone to stumble
1 Corinthians 10:17 NIV
[17] Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.
1 Corinthians 10:32-33 NIV
[32] Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God--- [33] even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.
** As Christians we should be concerned whether we are edifying others with the blessed gifts given to us by God, following an order as desired by God when believers gather; for example, the church at worship should reflect God’s character and nature because He is a God of peace and harmony, order and clarity, not strife and confusion <M130>
1 Corinthians 14:26 NIV
[26] What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.
1 Corinthians 14:33 NIV
[33] For God is not a God of disorder but of peace---as in all the congregations of the Lord's people.
Romans 15:33 NIV
[33] The God of peace be with you all. Amen.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 NIV
[16] Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
1 Corinthians 14:40 NIV
[40] But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way
** We are to give equal honor to all parts of God’s body and not distinguish between gifts given to each member in order to maintain unity in the body; in fact, members holding gifts that seem weaker and dispensable are to be honored above those that appear more ‘presentable’
1 Corinthians 12:19-25 NIV
[19] If they were all one part, where would the body be? [20] As it is, there are many parts, but one body. [21] The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don't need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don't need you!” [22] On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23] and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, [24] while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, [25] so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
** All spiritual gifts given to the body of believers should honored equally
• Some believers still desire ‘greater’ gifts but Paul encourages the Corinthians to view them as all equally indispensable in the body of Christ
• Desiring other gifts is not wrong when wanting to better serve others but is wrong when someone wants to appear ‘special’ or ‘spiritual’
• Paul further encourages members who want to emphasize any gifts, to emphasize those gifts that involve intelligible speech (1 Cor 14:1-7)
1 Corinthians 12:28-31 NIV
[28] And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. [29] Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? [30] Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues ? Do all interpret? [31] Now eagerly desire the greater gifts. And yet I will show you the most excellent way.
1 Corinthians 12:22-23 NIV
[22] On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23] and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty
1 Corinthians 14:1-5 NIV
[1] Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. [2] For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit. [3] But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort. [4] Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. [5] I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.
** We all have an assigned role to play in the witness and discipleship of new believers; do not be consumed by who does what role but follow the Spirit’s lead
1 Corinthians 3:5-9 NIV
[5] What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe---as the Lord has assigned to each his task. [6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. [7] So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. [8] The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. [9] For we are co-workers in God's service; you are God's field, God's building.
** Paul outlined the devastating effects of one who boldly exercises what he determines as right in front of a younger weaker brother
• Stop passing judgment on one another regarding personal convictions on areas for which the Bible does not provide specific instruction
• Instead, determine not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way
• Whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God <G72>
• Eating meat purchased from a temple market is not wrong, but harming a weaker brother is <R1795>
1 Corinthians 8:9 NIV
[9] Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.
1 Corinthians 8:10-12 NIV
[10] For if someone with a weak conscience sees you, with all your knowledge, eating in an idol's temple, won't that person be emboldened to eat what is sacrificed to idols? [11] So this weak brother or sister, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. [12] When you sin against them in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ.
** Paul encouraged others to do what is best for their brother, regardless if “they knew better”
• Paul didn’t ask folks who are right in eating meat to surrender their doctrinal insights
• He just asked them to care enough about others to be more concerned with their well-being than with either being right, or exercising personal rights <R1795>
1 Corinthians 8:13 NIV
[13] Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother or sister to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause them to fall.
** Paul warns Timothy about false accusations; justification is more likely to happen with 2-3 witnesses
1 Timothy 5:19 NIV
[19] Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses.
** ChristIans are expected to encourage and instruct one another in the ways of the Lord
Romans 15:14 NIV
[14] I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.
** There is to be unity in the congregation so that all members rejoice and are sorrowful as experienced by other members
1 Corinthians 12:26 NIV
[26] If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
Romans 12:10 NIV
[10] Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:15 NIV
[15] Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
1 Peter 4:1-2 NIV
[1] Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. [2] As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.
** Paul called the church in Corinth and all subsequent churches to be without division, united in mind and thought in DOCTRINE based solely on God’s Word
• “The only source of unity is God’s Word which establishes the standard of truth on which true unity exists” <M130>
• Inward unity of mind and thought is needed for outward harmony
• Paul was requesting they genuinely consider the issues to produce ‘real unity’ than simply pretending to agree <R1795>
1 Corinthians 1:10 NIV
[10] I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.
Luke 8:21 NIV
[21] [Jesus] replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God's word and put it into practice.”
Ephesians 4:11-13 NIV
[11] So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, [12] to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up [13] until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
** Paul makes the case that believers should settle their disputes with the help of other believers; Christians will one day rule the ungodly so we should be able to handle disputes before this time
• Paul implied here that Christians, who are citizens of Christ’s heavenly kingdom, ought to settle their legal disputes among themselves
• Fellow believers should apply the laws of Christ’s heavenly kingdom rather than relying on earthly courts
• Chistians should be able to take their disputes to the church! <R1795>
1 Corinthians 6:1-3 NIV
[1] If any of you has a dispute with another, do you dare to take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the Lord's people? [2] Or do you not know that the Lord's people will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? [3] Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life!
1 Corinthians 6:5-6 NIV
[5] I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers? [6] But instead, one brother takes another to court---and this in front of unbelievers!
** Lawsuits among believers indicate defeat already; rather, why not be wronged by the other person?
1 Corinthians 6:7-8 NIV
[7] The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? [8] Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers and sisters.
** We are to follow Christ alone who sacrificed for our salvation, not any human leader or organization; Christ is not divided nor is His church
1 Corinthians 1:12-13 NIV
[12] What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas ”; still another, “I follow Christ.” [13] Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul?
1 Corinthians 1:17 NIV
[17] For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel---not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
1 Corinthians 3:4-6 NIV
[4] For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not mere human beings? [5] What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe---as the Lord has assigned to each his task. [6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.
1 Corinthians 3:21-23 NIV
[21] So then, no more boasting about human leaders! All things are yours, [22] whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future---all are yours, [23] and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God.
** Society is often quick to highlight character differences and flippantly place labels on people; the same wisdom from God's Word, however, applies to everyone, despite how society categorizes them
Psalm 49:1-3 NIV
[1] Hear this, all you peoples; listen, all who live in this world, [2] both low and high, rich and poor alike: [3] My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the meditation of my heart will give you understanding.
** The Church is the only earthly expression of heaven when God's will is done on earth in the church – when it deals with sin and is the source of truth <M130>
• The church is the support and pillar of the truth, where we go to hear God speak!
• Rejoice in the gift of the church and may it be enough for us to ‘wear the uniform’ as members of the church
• Some day, in heaven, followers of Christ will experience worship, exaltation of Christ, presence of absolute purity (holy) and perfect harmonious fellowship
• In the meantime, the biggest problem in the church is the lack of discernment, or knowing right from wrong
• The only way we can gain discernment is through the learning and knowing of God's Word
• Review Psalm 19 that outlines different facets of His Word, including the power to transform lives, making wise the simple, etc
Matthew 18:18 NIV
[18] “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
1 Timothy 3:14-15 NIV
[14] Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, [15] if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
Psalm 19:7-11 NIV
[7] The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. [8] The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. [9] The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. [10] They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. [11] By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
** Our general offering to God should be given out of a ‘willing heart’
Exodus 35:5 NIV
[5] From what you have, take an offering for the Lord. Everyone who is willing is to bring to the Lord an offering of gold, silver and bronze
Exodus 35:10 NIV
[10] “All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded:
Exodus 35:20-22 NIV
[20] Then the whole Israelite community withdrew from Moses’ presence, [21] and everyone who was willing and whose heart moved them came and brought an offering to the Lord for the work on the tent of meeting, for all its service, and for the sacred garments. [22] All who were willing, men and women alike, came and brought gold jewelry of all kinds: brooches, earrings, rings and ornaments. They all presented their gold as a wave offering to the Lord.
Exodus 35:29 NIV
[29] All the Israelite men and women who were willing brought to the Lord freewill offerings for all the work the Lord through Moses had commanded them to do.
** We are to commune with our brothers and sisters in Christ, working with them and fulfilling our vows to the Lord for the glory of God
Acts 18:2-3 NIV
[2] There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, [3] and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.
Acts 18:7-8 NIV
[7] Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God. [8] Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard Paul believed and were baptized.
Acts 18:18 NIV
[18] Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken.
Acts 18:27 NIV
[27] When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed.
** Christ provides for us so we can comfort our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ
• This is one of the most powerful principles in ministry
• Paul was saying that people can identify with those who share the same pain
• If you’ve ever anguished over the pain in your life and wondered ‘why?’, this is one possible answer
• God is equipping you to minister to others who suffer in a similar way
• Without experiencing their pain, there is nothing you can say that would be heard
• It is only because you hurt that you can help others heal! <R1795>
• How is God using your pain to help others?
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV
[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
** Believers rely on the prayers of others for the ultimate glory of God
2 Corinthians 1:10-11 NIV
[10] He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, [11] as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.
** Protect and care for those who carry on the work of the Lord
1 Corinthians 16:10-11 NIV
[10] When Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am. [11] No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.
1 Corinthians 16:16 NIV
[16] submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it.
1 Corinthians 16:20 NIV
[20] All the brothers and sisters here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
1 Corinthians 16:23-24 NIV
[23] The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. [24] My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.
** Christians are to support their brothers and sisters; follow the example of the early church providing an offering for the destitute believers in famine-stricken Jerusalem
• All giving to the Lord’s work was to be a freewill offering spurred by their love and vow to one another
• In a similar fashion, Christians are to support those in need today
1 Corinthians 16:1-2 NIV
[1] Now about the collection for the Lord's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. [2] On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.
Acts 11:28-30 NIV
[28] One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) [29] The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. [30] This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NIV
[6] Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. [7] Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. [8] And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
1 Corinthians 13:3 NIV
[3] If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
** Test personal motives when acting in love toward others
• If motivated in self promotion (boasting, pride, proving something) then pray that God would replace this motivation with genuine love for the other
• Self-giving love is ACTION and is more concerned about giving than receiving
1 Corinthians 13:4 NIV
[4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
John 3:16 NIV
[16] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Ephesians 2:4-5 NIV
[4] But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, [5] made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions---it is by grace you have been saved.
Philippians 2:2-5 NIV
[2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
** The kingdom of God is about righteousness, not following a legalistic program; therefore do whatever you can to build a righteous kingdom that promotes peace and mutual edification
Romans 14:17-19 NIV
[17] For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, [18] because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval. [19] Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
** Paul confirms that nothing is unclean unless God calls it unclean; be sensitive and act in love with those who view something as unclean, even if you disagree and God does not call it unclean, for to them it is deemed unclean
Romans 14:14 NIV
[14] I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean.
Acts 10:14-15 NIV
[14] “Surely not, Lord!” Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.” [15] The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.”
Romans 14:15 NIV
[15] If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died.
Romans 14:20 NIV
[20] Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble.
** Do not let any ‘acceptable’ personal preference be a stumbling block to those who do not see it as ‘acceptable’
Romans 14:20-21 NIV
Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. [21] It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.
** We need to be together to encourage and challenge one another
Romans 1:11-12 NIV
[11] I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong--- [12] that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.
Proverbs 27:17 NIV
[17] As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
** Christians are to accept those who are younger and weaker in the faith, gently instructing them toward truth and repentance; concern should not be winning an argument but helping release them from Satan’s trap
Romans 14:1 NIV
[1] Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.
Romans 15:1,7 NIV
[1] We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. [7] Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
1 Corinthians 8:9 NIV
[9] Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.
2 Timothy 2:25-26 NIV
[25] Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, [26] and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
** Christians are not to be concerned about being judged by others but by God, for His is the only judgment that matters!
1 Corinthians 4:3 NIV
[3] I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself.
1 Corinthians 4:4 NIV
[4] My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.
** Paul instructs his listeners not to judge others because none of us knows the ‘whole story’; wait till the Lord’s return when all will be revealed and God will judge perfectly
1 Corinthians 4:5 NIV
[5] Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.
** The church is the greatest mission field, filled with comfortable non-believing misguided believers. Therefore, the church's mission should be to make the dead people in the church alive! If church members are dead then the church is dead, regardless of the name on the front door; in contrast, vibrant churches will be under attack. The church must be the conscience of the world and not to court the world; the church must show and warn the world of its destructive destination by proclaiming the sin of man.
Matthew 7:21-23 NIV
[21] “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ [23] Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
** We are to operate contrary to this world of “taking care of number one”, by loving one another, sharing with them and honoring them above ourselves
Romans 12:10 NIV
[10] Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:13 NIV
[13] Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
** Can young- or non-believers identify in some way with our Christian witness?
• Timothy came from a family with a Jewish mother and Gentile father
• He was a wonderful asset to the mission for he had access to both Jewish and Greek populations
Acts 16:1-3 NIV
[1] Paul came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was Jewish and a believer but whose father was a Greek. [2] The believers at Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him. [3] Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, so he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.
** Sometimes disagreement will surface among believers; we need to remain true to our convictions and prayerful consideration of how God is directing us
Acts 15:36-41 NIV
[36] Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the believers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” [37] Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, [38] but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. [39] They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, [40] but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord. [41] He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
** Much of what is required in following God involves our positive proactive action-attitude-love toward others, for we will:
• Speak the truth from the heart
• Utter no slander
• Do no wrong to a neighbor
• Cast no slur on others
• Honor those who fear the Lord
• Keep an oath even when it hurts
• Lend money to the poor without interest
• Not accept a bribe against the innocent
Psalm 15:2-5 NIV
[2] The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; [3] whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; [4] who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; [5] who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.
Romans 13:8-10 NIV
Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. [9] The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [10] Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Romans 15:2 NIV
Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.
** Those who have been transformed by faith will put on the image of God and turn from selfish desires
Romans 13:13-14 NIV
[13] Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. [14] Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
** The Holy Spirit can discourage and prevent believers from going in a certain direction, even though it may not make sense to them at the time
Acts 16:6-8 NIV
[6] Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. [7] When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. [8] So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas.
** The apostles and elders in Jerusalem made decisions that affected the direction of the early church
Acts 16:4 NIV
[4] As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey.
** Paul gives us a wonderful example of sharing the gospel in one place for years until everyone had heard and considered the gospel
Acts 19:8-10 NIV
[8] Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. [9] But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. [10] This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.
** The apostles and elders selected missionaries to carry the gospel message to distant locations
Acts 15:22 NIV
[22] Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to choose some of their own men and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They chose Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, men who were leaders among the believers.
** We are to encourage young Christian believers with truth from God's Word while dispelling of all falsehoods
• It seems that the Jerusalem Council asked Gentile converts to be sensitive to their Jewish brethren’s convictions
• Paul would later write to the Romans and Corinthians not to misuse their freedom, but to avoid giving unnecessary offense to those whose convictions might differ from their own <R1795>
Acts 15:19-20 NIV
[19] “It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. [20] Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood.
Acts 15:22-31 NIV
[22] Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to choose some of their own men and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They chose Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, men who were leaders among the believers. [23] With them they sent the following letter: The apostles and elders, your brothers, To the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia: Greetings. [24] We have heard that some went out from us without our authorization and disturbed you, troubling your minds by what they said. [25] So we all agreed to choose some men and send them to you with our dear friends Barnabas and Paul--- [26] men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. [27] Therefore we are sending Judas and Silas to confirm by word of mouth what we are writing. [28] It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: [29] You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell. [30] So the men were sent off and went down to Antioch, where they gathered the church together and delivered the letter. [31] The people read it and were glad for its encouraging message.
** As followers of Christ, we have the responsibility to challenge another when they sin against you and forgive when they repent
Luke 17:3-4 NIV
[3] So watch yourselves.
“If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. [4] Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.”
** Loving your neighbor involves having mercy on them
Luke 10:33-35 NIV
[33] But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. [34] He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. [35] The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
Luke 10:36-37 NIV
“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” [37] The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
** The Pharisees thought by bringing an adulterer to Jesus and asking how to deal with her, they could trap Him but Jesus turned the attention on the accusers; no one kept God's law perfectly
John 8:4-7 NIV
[4] and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. [5] In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” [6] They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. [7] When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
a) if Jesus said they should stone her then He would lose His reputation for mercy
b) if Jesus called for the woman's death then He would be a criminal in the eyes if Roman law that forbade the death penalty
c) if Jesus said the woman should be pardoned then religious leaders would say He is breaking the law of Moses
- Jesus took His time in answering, perhaps recording their sins as He wrote on the ground, asked who is without sin
** Expect of yourself what you expect of others; give to another what you hope to receive from God
Luke 6:37-38 NIV
[37] “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. [38] Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
** Jesus confirms that loving God with all your heart (will and affections), your soul (united powers of your being) and your mind (capacity of understanding) is the greatest commandment of all; greater than all possible burnt offerings and sacrifices; loving others is second
Mark 12:28-30 NIV
[28] One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” [29] “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [30] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’
Mark 12:31 NIV
[31] The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
** As followers of Christ we have a responsibility to not only be a good model but make sure we are not the reason another stumbles; the consequences are horrific
Mark 9:42 NIV
[42] “If anyone causes one of these little ones---those who believe in me---to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.
** Leaders (elders) are to model Godly behavior
Titus 1:6-9 NIV
An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. [7] Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless---not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. [8] Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. [9] He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.
** Jesus prayed before performing the miracle demonstrating to us that we should also be in prayer; if Jesus needed to pray then we do all the more!
John 6:11 NIV
[11] Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.
- Jesus spent time with God in prayer because He had limited power and ability as the Son of God
- in a similar way as a human becomes an ant, so it was when God became man
- yes Jesus was God and He wanted to provide example of what we need to do in our lives, but Jesus also limited Himself and needed to stay close to the Father
- it is crucial we follow Jesus but spend alone time with God
- this 'alone time' guided by His Word, can renew and revitalize us
** The church community prayed for Peter in prison
Acts 12:5 NIV
[5] So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
Acts 12:12 NIV
[12] When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.
** The need for deacons was seen at the time of the early apostles when the ministry was neglected and they needed help; the deacons they chose needed to be full of faith in Christ and the Holy Spirit
Acts 6:2-4 NIV
[2] So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. [3] Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them [4] and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
Acts 6:5-6 NIV
[5] This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. [6] They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
** Help others who are serving Christ and are in need
Philippians 4:14,16 NIV
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. [16] for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.
Philippians 4:19 NIV
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
Colossians 3:16 NIV
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
** Paul encouraged others to do what is best for their brother, regardless if “they knew better”
• Paul didn’t ask folks who are right in eating meat to surrender their doctrinal insights
• He just asked them to care enough about others to be more concerned with their well-being than with either being right, or exercising personal rights <R1795>
1 Corinthians 8:13 NIV
[13] Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother or sister to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause them to fall.
** Those in David's company who were unanimous in prayer were focused on God, confident in victory, anxious to lift their banners glorifying God and rejoicing with their neighbor
Psalm 20:5a NIV
[5] May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God.
** Do your best so you can be trusted by those in authority
Titus 2:9-10 NIV
Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, [10] and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.
Titus 3:1 NIV
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,
** May we spur each other on to pure and holy living
1 Thessalonians 3:13 NIV
May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.
** We should ask God's representatives if they have a message from Him when they are among us
Acts 13:13-15 NIV
[13] From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem. [14] From Perga they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down. [15] After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.”
** Teach sound doctrine and lead by example
Titus 2:1 NIV
You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.
Titus 2:7-8 NIV
In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness [8] and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
** Our efforts are to bring glory to God, our Master and 'project leader', not in any way to bring glory to us or our efforts or those around us.
How often do we want to be recognized for our work, focusing on the accolades we receive? Should we not be most concerned whether our efforts are glorifying to God and contributing to His plan?
Are we more concerned about whether those around us are happy with our efforts than God? Why is this if we are working for God?
Colossians 3:23-24 NIV
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, [24] since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
** Be a good model to others; be genuine; do not be a burden to others.
1 Thessalonians 2:10 NIV
You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed.
1 Thessalonians 2:5 NIV
You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed---God is our witness.
1 Thessalonians 2:9 NIV
Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.
** We were made to give God honor and glory through our lives as servants; we must first recognize God as the One and Only
Revelation 1:6 NIV
and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father---to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.
Revelation 1:8 NIV
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
** Purpose of working together (discipleship) is to grow in our understanding of God's goodness
Philemon 1:6 NIV
I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ.
Hebrews 12:14 NIV
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
** Have courage while being realistic about surrounding circumstances
Acts 27:21-26 NIV
After they had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said: “Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete; then you would have spared yourselves this damage and loss. [22] But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. [23] Last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me [24] and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’ [25] So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. [26] Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island.”
Acts 27:33-36 NIV
Just before dawn Paul urged them all to eat. “For the last fourteen days,” he said, “you have been in constant suspense and have gone without food---you haven’t eaten anything. [34] Now I urge you to take some food. You need it to survive. Not one of you will lose a single hair from his head.” [35] After he said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all. Then he broke it and began to eat. [36] They were all encouraged and ate some food themselves.
** We are not to keep the rewards of our salvation in Christ to ourselves but share how others can experience the same through the practical living as a Christian
Philippians 2:1-2 NIV
[1] Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
** Do nothing out of selfish ambition; value others above yourselves
Philippians 2:3-4 NIV
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Philippians 2:21 NIV
For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
** Hold on to what God has given and complete unfinished deeds; don't sleep your way through life
Revelation 3:1b-3 NIV
“I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. [2] Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. [3] Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you."
** Follow Christ's example of humility; God will lift us up and reward us as a result
• Our Christian faith is filled with paradoxes and this is one of the most powerful
• Because Christ humbled Himself, God exalted Him
• The way up, is down; the key to mastery is servanthood; the greatest among us are servants of all
• We who choose humility now will be raised higher than the proud
• To succeed in the Christian life, we are to walk the road Jesus traveled <R1795>
Philippians 2:7-8 NIV
rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death---even death on a cross!
Philippians 2:9 NIV
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name
** God gives us wisdom regarding how we are to relate to one another
James 3:17-18 NIV
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. [18] Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
** We are not always called to witness in a forceful bold way
• Paul knew that influence, not power, is the secret of Christian leadership
• While power coerces others, forcing them to do what is demanded, influence respects the rights of others to have the freedom to choose
• Paul marshalled a variety of strong arguments that made very clear what he thought Philemon should do, and was confident Philemon would do the right thing <R1795>
Philemon 1:8-9 NIV
Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, [9] yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul---an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus---
** Always be mindful of God's gift of fellow brothers and sisters in Christ with whom we can encourage, like Philemon who was a man who expressed love by welcoming and refreshing the ‘hearts of all’ saints
Philemon 1:4-5 NIV
I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, [5] because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus.
Philemon 1:6-7 NIV
I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. [7] Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.
Philemon 1:20-21 NIV
I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. [21] Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.
** Sometimes God places people in our path desiring that we interact with them
Acts 16:13 NIV
[13] On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there.
Acts 16:16 NIV
[16] Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a female slave who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling.
** Stand by your promises
James 5:12 NIV
Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear---not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple “Yes” or “No.” Otherwise you will be condemned.
** Do not show favoritism or play judge to others; God calls these judgments evil because He knows our thoughts are often not impartial
James 2:3-5 NIV
If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” [4] have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? [5] Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?
James 2:9 NIV
But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
** You will be judged as you judge others
James 2:12-13 NIV
Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, [13] because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
** We must not sit in judgment on one another for God is the only one who can save and destroy; do you look at your neighbor with a critical eye?
James 4:11-12 NIV
Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. [12] There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you---who are you to judge your neighbor?
** Jew and Gentile have opportunity to be in the kingdom when they have faith and an obedient heart toward God alone
Luke 13:28-30 NIV
[28] “There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves thrown out. [29] People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. [30] Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.”
** The small but mighty tongue guides our direction, the course of our life
James 3:3-6 NIV
When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. [4] Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. [5] Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. [6] The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
** The tongue is considered evil, full of deadly poison; we need to recognize this and constantly beware of how we use our tongue since it cannot be tamed
James 3:8 NIV
but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
James 3:9-12 NIV
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. [10] Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. [11] Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? [12] My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
** Watch how you speak about one another; don't grumble against another but rather speak words that will encourage them
James 5:9 NIV
Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!
** Make sure your energy and zeal is directed toward God and His purposes
Galatians 4:18 NIV
It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always, not just when I am with you.
** Our actions will determine our effectiveness for Christ and our destiny
Galatians 5:21 NIV
and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
** Be respectful in the decisions you make and actions you take
Philemon 1:13-14 NIV
I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. [14] But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary.
** Woe to those who lead others astray
2 Peter 2:18 NIV
[18] For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of the flesh, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error.
** Be honest with one another and speak the truth in love; do not let misunderstandings fester
Ephesians 4:25-27 NIV
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. [26] “In your anger do not sin” : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, [27] and do not give the devil a foothold.
Ephesians 4:29,32 NIV
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. [32] Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
** Pray that you and others will experience increased discernment; be filled with joy for those who share in the Gospel and the example you can be for one another
Philippians 1:3-6 NIV
I thank my God every time I remember you. [4] In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy [5] because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, [6] being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:9-11 NIV
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, [10] so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, [11] filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ---to the glory and praise of God.
Philippians 2:2 NIV
then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
** We are called to be gentle, patient, humble, loving etc toward one another; God enables us when we ask Him for help
Ephesians 4:2-6 NIV
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. [3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; [5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism; [6] one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Ephesians 4:7-8 NIV
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. [8] This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.”
Ephesians 4:11-13 NIV
So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, [12] to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up [13] until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
** Support one another through word, action and prayer.
Colossians 4:7-8 NIV
Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. [8] I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts.
Colossians 4:12 NIV
Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.
Colossians 4:17 NIV
Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord."
Colossians 4:18 NIV
I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
** Value those who work hard and support the work of The Lord
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 NIV
Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. [13] Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.
** Respect and obey the leadership God has placed in your life
Ephesians 6:2-3 NIV
“Honor your father and mother”---which is the first commandment with a promise--- [3] “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
** What in the World is the Church to Be?
John MacArthur podcast
Jun 11 2017
Invisible and Visible Church
- there is the invisible church community where we are one through the bond of Christ; we often know who are members of this community through the demonstration of our walk with God but non-believers don't see this
- the invisible church community is called to gather in a visible way to be a witness to the unbelieving world around us, as God designed the church; we need to clearly shine the light of Christ in the darkness of confusion around us
- unfortunately the visible church is not always made up of invisible (true) members and sometimes invisible members do not participate in the visible church
Looking at the Early Jerusalem Church Example
- five things make the early church a good example of what a church should be:
a) Study the apostles doctrine
b) Participate in community fellowship
c) Break bread; remembering Christ's death
d) Engage in Prayer
e) After gathering they went out to spread/preach the news of Christ
- local assembly of believers had a dynamic impact on their community
Church of Today in Comparison
- today church seems to be entertaining with programs
- lack of commitment may be the biggest difference between the early church and the church today
- churches can be poor examples today, especially when they have poor leadership, poor understanding of doctrine, churches built on programs to entertain, congregation that won't follow leadership demonstrated before the world
Paul sets up a Pattern for the Church
a) Teach sound doctrine -- not to give you entertainment, music programs, counseling services, but to teach sound doctrine only!
1 Timothy 4:13
Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.
b) Establish leaders for the church
- there is no 'organizational hierarchy chart' of the church (except maybe a circle) because everyone is equal and helps support one another
- there are two types of leaders including the plurality of ELDERS who are determined through prayer and fasting (not chosen because they are 'leaders' or good businessmen etc and who love good)
- elders are responsible to God and not the people, for the people do not run the church; "plurality of elders" so no one chief/man running the church
- leaders need to constantly be evaluating their own life so they can lead by example
- responsible for praying for church members in need (challenge, encourage, etc) and to feed the church of God with the word of God
Titus 1:6-9
6 An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. 7 Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. 8 Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. 9 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.
- the second office in the church involved the DEACONS who are full of the wisdom of the Holy Spirit so the elders can do their job
Acts 6:1-4
In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews[a] among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
- qualifications of a deacon is outlined in 1 Timothy 3:8-10, carrying out administrative duties in the church and not teaching
- every qualification requires a deep heart for God
- MacArthur believes there were deaconesses to assist the deacons; they were were to be faithful followers of God (not gossipers etc) to help accomplish the roles that men could not do (help other female believers etc)
1 Timothy 3:8-12
8 In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
c) The CONGREGATION should be comprised of spirit-filled members who are to do the work of the ministry and follow the leadership of those appointed in the church, assuming they are spirit-filled and guided by the Holy Spirit and assuming the church is a godly ministry
Eph 4:11-12
11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ
Heb 13:17
17 Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
- duty of a man in the local assembly because the basis of our faith is based on love; providing for the family is a priority
1 Tim 5:8
8 Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
- men must be a good witness at work for the sake of the testimony of Christ
- set the pattern for younger men
- for those with Christian bosses, work all the more diligent and do not take advantage of them or the situation because they are to be faithful to Christ
1 Tim 6:1
All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered.
- women believers must be modest in their appearance with a small sense of shame; not to show off and to distract others
- women in the past were flaunting their wealth
- find the balance between extravagance and poor maintenance
- godly women don't care about themselves but are focused on the word of God and godly things, not showing off
- teachers of good things but not in public service; older women should teach and assist the younger women
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**Authorities and rulers on earth are called to be wise and subject themselves before God in fear, recognizing His rule as supreme; not only the Jewish nation but whole earth; one day all authorities will not have a choice!
Psalm 2:10-11 NIV
Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth. [11] Serve the Lord with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.
Psalm 2:12 NIV
Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.
** God is your 'ultimate boss' and you should do your absolute best for Him and for His honor and glory
Ephesians 6:5-8 NIV
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. [6] Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. [7] Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, [8] because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.
** Followers of Christ are called to work diligently and carry our own load
Galatians 6:4-5 NIV
[4] Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, [5] for each one should carry their own load.
** Mind your own business; work diligently to earn the respect of others and not be dependent on anyone
• Contrary to worldly ambition of pushing ahead to succeed, Paul had a different slant on what it means to be ambitious
• In essence, Paul said to make it your ambition to be as ordinary as possible
• In other words, lead a quiet life, mind your own business, work hard, earn your own living, be a good and rather ordinary citizen
• Those living ordinary folks, living good, honest, hardworking lives, have a habit of winning the respect of those who know them
• For God’s people, winning respect is a much higher goal than getting to the top! <R179>
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 NIV
and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, [12] so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.
** God will protect you as you follow His will for His honor and glory.
Acts 23:23-24 NIV
Then he called two of his centurions and ordered them, “Get ready a detachment of two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea at nine tonight. [24] Provide horses for Paul so that he may be taken safely to Governor Felix.”
Acts 26:22 NIV
But God has helped me to this very day; so I stand here and testify to small and great alike. I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen---
** Understanding and implementing God's message in your life WILL bear fruit.
Colossians 1:6 NIV
that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world---just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace.
Colossians 1:27 NIV
To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
** We are responsible to encourage, challenge and share Christ to those who God places in our path.
Acts 20:26-28 NIV
Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of any of you. [27] For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. [28] Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.
Acts 20:31 NIV
So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.
** Pray continually for your brothers and sisters in the Lord that they may GROW in the Lord, not for their laundry list.
Colossians 1:9-12 NIV
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, [10] so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, [11] being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, [12] and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.
Colossians 1:28 NIV
He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.
Colossians 3:16 NIV
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
** God wants us to continue to mature to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ, which includes valuing hard work for His kingdom, not just reach an arbitrary 'plateau' and coast the rest of our lives
Ephesians 4:13-15 NIV
until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. [14] Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. [15] Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.
** Allow others to hear your testimony, for perhaps they will identify with your experiences before conversion? As Paul said when testifying before King Agrippa:
Acts 26:9 NIV
“I too was convinced that I ought to do all that was possible to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth.
** The power of praying in agreement with other believers
Matthew 18:19-20 NIV
“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. [20] For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
** Do not offer or throw away that which is valuable to one who will not appreciate it or abuse it; they may actually turn on you for doing so
Matthew 7:6 NIV
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.
** Live humbly and depend on God so He can be revealed through you
1 Peter 5:5 NIV
In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
** Living out in anger does not produce righteousness
James 1:19-20 NIV
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, [20] because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.
** Jesus wanted those who were close to Him (friends) during the last hours; Jesus asked Peter and others to stay with Him while He prayed
Matthew 26:36-38 NIV
Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” [37] He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. [38] Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
** Friends and those who love us will let us down
Matthew 26:40 NIV
Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter.
Matthew 26:42-43 NIV
He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” [43] When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy.
** Christ commands us to forgive the neighbor who sins against us an unlimited amount of times; God constantly forgives us so we are to do the same as outlined in the parable of the unmerciful servant
Matthew 18:21-22 NIV
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” [22] Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
Matthew 18:23-30 NIV
“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. [24] As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. [25] Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. [26] “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ [27] The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go. [28] “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded. [29] “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’ [30] “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt.
** We are commissioned to talk with our brother or sister in Christ when we believe they sinned; if we don't get anywhere with them then involve others
Matthew 18:15 NIV
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.
Matthew 18:16-17 NIV
But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ [17] If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
** There were times Jesus went out of His way not to cause offense to others; Jesus also shows the rules of this world are not applicable to Him
Matthew 17:27 NIV
“But so that we may not cause offense, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”
** Do not judge others for you will be held accountable by the same measure
Matthew 7:1-2 NIV
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. [2] For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Matthew 7:12 NIV
So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
** Concern yourself over your own condition before criticizing another; we often see what is wrong with our neighbor while ignoring our own faults
Matthew 7:3-5 NIV
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? [4] How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? [5] You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
** We were made to give God honor and glory through our lives as servants; we must first recognize God as the One and Only
Revelation 1:6 NIV
and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father---to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.
Revelation 1:8 NIV
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
** We are known by the fruit we bear
Matthew 12:33 NIV
“Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.
Matthew 12:34-35 NIV
You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. [35] A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.
** Paul talks of God's inheritance which involves investing in others. We can have the same inheritance!
Acts 20:32 NIV
“Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
** We must work hard, but not only for our own sustenance but to help others.
Acts 20:34-35 NIV
You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. [35] In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”
** Love the unlovely; love your enemies and those who persecute you
You don't have to trust them or agree with their thoughts or methods but we are called to love them, not wishing them harm
Matthew 5:44-45 NIV
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, [45] that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
** Do not only do what comes naturally, responding in like with those who treat you well but do the unexpected by being nice to those who mistreat you
Matthew 5:46-48 NIV
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? [47] And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? [48] Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
** We are not to strive to gain worldly stature or posture for superiority; rather we are to humble ourselves, accepting a lowly position with joy and love for another
Matthew 18:2-5 NIV
He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. [3] And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. [4] Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. [5] And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
** Our concept of family and responsibility changes when we become disciples of Christ; it is no longer biological
Matthew 12:47-50 NIV
Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.” [48] He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” [49] Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. [50] For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
** Conduct yourselves worthy of God even though others may not see or think you are; in the day of judgment truth will prevail
1 Peter 2:12 NIV
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
Psalm 40:4 NIV
Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.
** There is always someone to support errant thinking, so we need to test what we hear against what we read in Scripture
1 Kings 1:5,7 NIV
[5] Now Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, put himself forward and said, “I will be king.” So he got chariots and horses ready, with fifty men to run ahead of him. [7] Adonijah conferred with Joab son of Zeruiah and with Abiathar the priest, and they gave him their support.
J19.
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