CONSIDER
• Fifteen items on God’s list for leaders of a church who are charged with spiritual oversight of a local congregation include:
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
** Without godly wisdom, knowledge has the potential to be dangerous <H90>
• Wisdom is the ability to discern that which is true or right and exercises sound judgment when applying knowledge
• The starting point for correctly applying knowledge is to first consider what God's Word says regarding it
Proverbs 1:7 NIV
[7] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Matthew 7:24-25 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.
** We may not have much say in when our life starts or when it stops, but we have a whole lot of say regarding what happens in between these events <L120>
Ephesians 5:15-17 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. [17] Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.
• Are you living your life well?
• This life we are presently living is but preparation for the day of His return, and we should seek to live holy lives as we wait for the glorious day <P169>
• God will reward us for faithful service -- for lives well-lived -- so we need to put a lot of thought into how we live our lives
• That starts with establishing guiding principles, for if we know the principles we want to live by, we can shape our decision-making, our interactions with others, our priorities, and our daily routines to fit those principles
• As believers, principles such as godliness, obedience, integrity, and faithfulness should be at the top of our list
• We embrace GODLINESS by staying close to the Lord through prayer and Bible study, working to understand His ways and His will
• We embrace OBEDIENCE by following His commands, especially when it’s difficult to do
• We embrace INTEGRITY by adhering to godly principles when people are watching and when they aren’t
• We embrace FAITHFULNESS by seeking to grow every day in our relationship with the Lord
What a well-lived life looks like:
• Don’t worry about what God has planned for others, but focus on what He has planned for you (John 21:21-22)
• Celebrate the resources God has blessed you with; use the spiritual gifts He’s given you (1 Peter 4:10-11)
• Blaze the trails He’s laid out for you (Prov 4:25-27)
• Make a difference in the lives of people in your orbit (Matt 5:16)
• Grow in your relationship with God, in your own way and at your own pace (James 4:8)
• Prioritize the things that matter; let go of the things that don’t (Matt 6:33)
• Understand your weaknesses so that you can resist the temptations that are aimed at them (Matt 26:41)
• Make the most of your strengths (Psa 18:32)
1 Peter 5:8 NIV
[8] Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
** 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.
** Moses blessed the Israelites before he died, not because they were perfect and deserved it, but because they were loved <W212>
Deuteronomy 1:11 NIV
[11] May the Lord, the God of your ancestors, increase you a thousand times and bless you as he has promised!
• Moses didn't scold first; he blessed
• He saw Israel with a 'good eye' the way Jesus sees us
• Perfection is not a prerequisite for God’s blessing, for He meets us in our condition and calls us forward
• That tender approach -- correction with compassion -- is the Christian's model to follow
Colossians 3:12 NIV
[12] Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
** Good leaders who want to unite its people should not show favoritism <R1795>
• When David was recognized as king by the entire nation, he selected a capital that lay on the border of the northern and southern sections
• The capital was part of neither’s territory
• A person who seeks to unite a people must be careful not to show favoritism
• This is a good principle for parents to follow because each child is unique and should be loved as an individual
1 Chronicles 11:7-8 NIV
[7] David then took up residence in the fortress, and so it was called the City of David. [8] He built up the city around it, from the terraces to the surrounding wall, while Joab restored the rest of the city
** Paul reminded his audience of the authority given him by Christ and assured them they are within his “sphere of service”
• There is a difference between spiritual and worldly authority
• Spiritual authority builds up others, while worldly authority builds up leaders
• Unfortunately, Christians become so used to worldly leadership that unless Christian leaders behave in the same way, they are deemed as weak
• Paul, and mature believers today, knew that spiritual authority is given leaders to build others up
• The test of spiritual leaders is not how ‘weighty and forceful’ they appear to the world, but whether they are effective in helping others follow Jesus more closely <R1795>
2 Corinthians 10:8 NIV
[8] So even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed of it.
2 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
[13] We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the sphere of service God himself has assigned to us, a sphere that also includes you.
2 Corinthians 12:12 NIV
[12] I persevered in demonstrating among you the marks of a true apostle, including signs, wonders and miracles.
2 Corinthians 13:10 NIV
[10] This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority---the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.
** Ask the Lord to teach you His ways
Psalm 25:4 NIV
[4] Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.
Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV
[8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. [9] “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
** The fruit of the Spirit evident in Christians is not for 'show' or 'spectator sport' but to enable them to stay in step with the Spirit <M1501>
• The Bible uses 'walking with the Spirit' as a metaphor for a believer's journey, encompassing beliefs, attitudes, desires, and actions
• The fruit of the Spirit provides a guide for believers on how to live a life pleasing to God and aligned with His character
• As believers cultivate these qualities, they experience personal transformation and become more like Christ <W2201>
Galatians 5:22-26 NIV
[22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [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 1:9b-10 NIV
[9] 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
John 15:5 NIV
[5] “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
** Focus on God and His Word, allowing Him to guide you in the hour of darkness
• It's because God loves us, that He provides the gift of suffering and promises to help us when we call on Him
• God wants to work with us through our pain
• Focus on God: order can come from chaos <M1501>
• We will be strengthened by the experience and can also discover our abilities and God's plans along the way
• All of this should ultimately be for God's glory!
Isaiah 42:16 NIV
[16] I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.
2 Peter 1:3 NIV
[3] His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV
[20] Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, [21] equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
** Gamaliel is mostly remembered for intervening and defending Peter and the other apostles before the Jewish council who intended to kill them <B316>
To take a stand against such a murderous Sanhedrin was disastrous. It required tact, reason, knowledge and wisdom. So how did Gamaliel do it?
• He was a Pharisee and Doctor of the law (34) – This made him respectable, one who was learned and could express himself with conviction
• He had a good reputation (34) –One who had the interests of the council and Israel at heart, so they listened to his points
• He was a man of authority (34) – He ‘commanded’ to put the apostles outside, which meant his authority was highly regarded in the council
• He was discrete (34) – By asking the apostles to leave, he showed that he respected the council and did not want to expose the discussions of the council to non-members, like the apostles; this must have increased his credibility with the Sanhedrin
• He was wise (35) - He gave good advice, asking the sanhedrin to “take heed” but did not force his views on them; this was a sincere request that invited the council to reevaluate their decision and drew their attention to the rest of his argument
• He used history (36-37) – After winning the attention of the Sanhedrin, he used his deeper knowledge of history to present his points, such as telling the story of Theudas and Judas of Galilee who perished and whose followers eventually left them
• He was tactful (38) – After presenting his case, he tactfully brought it to a conclusion, urging his colleagues in the right track by saying,“And now I say unto you…”
• He was fearless (38) – It required courage to speak against the Sanhedrin; the fact that his words “refrained from these men and let them alone” proved his boldness
• He warned the people of their danger (39) – He had previously stated that if the course is not of God then it would also fail, and warned them that if it be of God then you would not win since they can't fight God
• He was persuasive (40) - Eventually, the council agreed to follow his wise counsel; though they beat the apostles, they did not kill them
Acts 5:34 NIV
[34] But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while.
** 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.
** The Biblical advice on identifying a fool is clear, and suggests a nuanced approach when responding to a fool
The word 'fool' is repeated throughout Scripture and can describe one who:
• Constantly talks and is not known for listening to wisdom (Prov 10:10)
• Brings ruin (Prov 10:14)
• Utters slander (Prov 10:18)
• Claims to be right in his own eyes (Prov 12:15)
• Is associated with wickedness and denies God (Psalm 53:1), etc <G72>
Proverbs 10:10,14,18 NIV
[10] Whoever winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin. [14] The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin. [18] Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.
Proverbs 12:15 NIV
[15] The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.
Psalm 53:1 NIV
[1] The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, and their ways are vile; there is no one who does good.
There are several considerations when dealing with a fool:
• Do not respond to a fool according to his folly, lest you become like him
• Expose the foolishness of the fool's arguments or actions to prevent them from mistakenly believing they are wise and correct
• Not all fools are worth engaging with, and some situations may be best handled by simply walking away
• The ability to discern when to engage and when to remain silent is a mark of wisdom <W2201>
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.
** Believers need to get in the habit of disciplining themselves by fixing their eyes on Jesus if they want to win the race and receive the reward <F60>
1 Corinthians 9:25-27 NIV
[25] Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. [26] Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. [27] No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Hebrews 12:1-2 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.
** God describes Himself as zealous -- fiercely protective and deeply invested in His covenant people <W212>
• God's zeal continues to preserve a remnant (Isa 37:32)
• His burning passion installed 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.
** Our talk about Jesus should be in line with our walk with Him <W2205>
• This principle was present in the life of godly men and women who graced the pages of the Old Testament, such as King David
• When we look at the life of David, we read that his character and reputation were built on God’s definition of what makes a person great
• Greatness, according to the world’s standards, is measured by things such as achievements, status, education, wealth, and individual or corporate contributions to society
• While these traits are admirable, they can also be a source of pride, selfishness, self-centeredness and arrogance
• God’s definition of greatness is different, for it is not defined in terms of material indulgence or satisfaction but on how we live our lives, and whether we leave behind a testimony of good character and reputation
• This is especially true for anyone who defines themselves as a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ
1 Samuel 18:14 NIV
[14] In everything [David] did he had great success, because the Lord was with him.
1 Samuel 18:28-30 NIV
[28] When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, [29] Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days. [30] The Philistine commanders continued to go out to battle, and as often as they did, David met with more success than the rest of Saul's officers, and his name became well known.
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.
** 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.
** In light of eternity, keeping our focus on God's kingdom is what we are here for <W2201>
• A common saying is that "it's about the journey, not the destination" -- but it's the knowledge of the destination that determines the quality and type of journey we have <D40>
• Are we doing all we can to spread the good news with what God has put in our hands?
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.”
Ephesians 5:15-17 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. [17] Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.
** Did Peter sink? Yes. But if you’re going to fail, then this is the way to do it. Peter made his mistakes, but this was impressive. And really, when we look at his shortcomings, we see that most, if not all, seemed to come from a heart that wanted to do the right thing. He just didn’t always go about it in the right way.
We can sit like armchair quarterbacks and critique people who attempt things for God. But what have we done lately? Have we taken a risk for the kingdom of God? Have we taken a step of faith? It would be better to try and fail than to sit around and do nothing. Peter was doing his part. And so should we. <L120>
Matthew 14:29 NIV
[29] “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.
** God was ready to destroy Moses but left him alone after his wife Zipporah called Moses a "bridegroom of blood"
• This disturbing incident, in which God was going to kill Moses, is not fully explained in the text
• Based on the fact that God was going to kill Moses, we assume that Moses had committed some sin against God
• The fact that the circumcision of Moses’ son caused the Lord to relent indicates that Moses’ sin was a failure to circumcise his son
• The fact that Zipporah, not Moses, performed the surgery suggests that Moses was unable to do it himself; the same conclusion is supported by the fact that Zipporah touched Moses’ feet with the proof of circumcision—this would be more natural if Moses were bedridden
• And, if Moses was confined to bed, the method that God was using to kill him was likely an illness of some kind
• So, as far as we can tell, God was threatening to kill Moses because Moses had not circumcised his son <G72>
• Moses’ son was to be a spiritual leader who, first and foremost, must be obedient to God
• If we are to be used by God, we must first be responsive to Him <R1795>
Exodus 4:24-26 NIV
[24] At a lodging place on the way, the Lord met Moses and was about to kill him. [25] But Zipporah took a flint knife, cut off her son’s foreskin and touched Moses’ feet with it. “Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me,” she said. [26] So the Lord let him alone. (At that time she said “bridegroom of blood,” referring to circumcision.)
** Jesus issued seven warnings to the religious leaders and those who follow them so they could avoid becoming failures in their own spiritual lives <R1795>
The seven include not:
• Shutting others out
• Making converts for your own sake and in your own image
• Making rules for others despite a lack of personal spiritual insight
• Majoring on minor religious issues while ignoring God’s true priorities
• Being concerned with appearances rather than personal righteousness
• Covering sinful motives with deceitful talk and actions
• Professing responsiveness to God as a cloak to hostility
Matthew 23:13ff NIV
[13] “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites…
** Jesus warned of following leaders who do not practice what they preach; not much has changed in 2000 years since Jesus walked the earth!
Matthew 23:1-4 NIV
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: [2] “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. [3] So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. [4] They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.
** Watch out for too many leaders who are in it for the power and prestige; observe their actions and preferences to help determine their motive
Matthew 23:5-7 NIV
“Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; [6] they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; [7] they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.
** New Testament apostles were commissioned to establish the early church, which then set the foundation for the Church Age
• The office or position of apostle was held by the disciples of Jesus plus Matthias (who replaced Judas) and Paul
• Those who held the office or position of apostle were chosen specifically by Christ
• It is important to note that the foundation of the Church was laid by the early apostles; no need to have it laid again
• The gifts of the apostles and prophets were foundational and necessary in the early days of the church; their purpose had been completed, thus negating the need for apostles and prophets today
• Once the Holy Spirit had fulfilled His ministry of guiding the disciples into all the truth (John 16:13) and inspiring prophecy (2 Peter 1:20–21), He began using evangelists and pastors and teachers to accomplish the next stage in the building of the Church <G72>
Ephesians 2:19-21 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.
Acts 15:1-3 NIV
[1] Certain people came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the believers: “Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved.” [2] This brought Paul and Barnabas into sharp dispute and debate with them. So Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question. [3] The church sent them on their way, and as they traveled through Phoenicia and Samaria, they told how the Gentiles had been converted. This news made all the believers very glad.
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.
** Jesus came “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” The humility expressed by Jesus’ act with towel and basin foreshadowed His ultimate act of humility and love on the cross. <G72>
• Jesus’ attitude was in direct contrast to that of the disciples, who had recently been arguing among themselves as to which of them was the greatest (Luke 22:24)
• There was no servant present in the upper room to wash the DISCIPLES feet, and it never occurred to them to wash one another’s feet
• When the Lord Himself stooped to this lowly task, they were stunned into silence
• Jesus foot-washing, teaching on the Holy Spirit, revelation of a vine/branches relationship with Him and His prayer for our sanctification, all uniquely unveiled the extent of Christ’s love in the great salvation His death won for us <R1795>
• Now it's up to us whether we will follow Christ's example, not to strive for greatness above our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, but to spur each other to love and good deeds
John 13:4-5 NIV
[4] so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. [5] After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
Luke 22:24-27 NIV
[24] A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. [25] Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. [26] But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. [27] For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
Hebrews 10:24 NIV
[24] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,
** 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.
** 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.
** We need to recognize when the harvest is ready and ask God to send harvesters
• At the same time, be ready to tend to the harvest ourselves
• Are we willing to be proactive, “step up to the plate”, move from our position of comfort and be ready to turn the world upside down?
Matthew 9:37-38 (NIV)
Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. [38] Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
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
Acts 17:6 NIV
[6] But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here,
• Continue to ask “what is my responsibility in world outreach?”
• Are we so focused on our local community (church) that we don't see the broad picture?
• Do you believe others CAN be saved and not everyone is hardened?
2 Corinthians 4:7 NIV
[7] But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
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.
** Spiritual maturity is like participating in a marathon; there's a time for running and a time for walking
• If we want to grow spiritually, then we need to learn how to consistently pace ourselves in the race of life
• The objective is not to only run fast but walk when needed in order to cross the finish line
• Sooner or later, believers in Christ learn that the Christian life is a walk of faith and not just relying on feelings that come and go <L120.>
Isaiah 40:31 NIV
[31] but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
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.
** This is exactly what we need to do when confused about things happening around us: go somewhere quiet, put our full attention on the Lord and ask Him to help us work through things that are confusing or distressing <D497>
• Not only did Habakkuk voice his concerns to God, but he also waited until God provided an answer
• Now, in our prayer life, do we take the opportunity to wait for God’s answer?
• Or, do we just spew forth all of the things on our mind, say “amen” and race off?
• Do you think it is possible that sometimes God might just want us to remain engaged in silent prayer so that He may answer the cry of our heart?
Habakkuk 2:1 NIV
[1] I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what he will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint.
Psalm 27:14 NIV
[14] Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.
Psalm 40:1 NIV
[1] I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.
• Habakkuk was determined to go up on the tower and remain on the tower (figurative or literal) until he heard what the Lord was going to say to him
• God seldom speaks and neither can we hear until we are silent, still and attentive
• We can be assured God will reveal the truth of the matter to us
Habakkuk 2:3 NIV
[3] For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.
** The grumbling behavior of the Israelites on the journey to Sinai shows us why God found it necessary to introduce His Law <R1795>
• The Law, with its clear standards, served to make the Israelites responsible for their actions
• This also provided God with a basis on which He could discipline when His people did wrong
• God continues to discipline His children, not to punish but to guide
Exodus 16:2-3 NIV
[2] In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. [3] The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.”
Hebrews 12:10 NIV
[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.
** David was focused and knew where he was going; he wasn’t fickle but knew what mattered in life <L120>
Psalm 57:7 NIV
[7] My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music.
Psalm 27:4 NIV
[4] One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
Psalm 78:72 NIV
[72] And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.
** God works with leaders who are humble and do not 'self-promote' as the world requires <H86>
Exodus 4:10 NIV
[10] Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.”
** The Hebrew word for ‘boys’ in Isaiah 3:4 suggests a young lad or perhaps a servant <S187>
• In this context, it denotes an immaturity of leadership that the Lord said would characterize those in charge of Judah ahead of His judgment falling on the nation
• The same can be said of a fallen nation today where there is a lack of strong leadership and existence of an insolent population before the Lord shakes the earth in the end times Tribulation
Isaiah 3:4-5 NIV
[4] “I will make mere youths their officials; children will rule over them.” [5] People will oppress each other---man against man, neighbor against neighbor. The young will rise up against the old, the nobody against the honored.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 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.
** The most important part of the race is the finish line. Yes, the start is important but you can have a bad start and still finish well. However, if you finish badly, it doesn’t matter how well you started. You’re simply tired and it was all for nothing. Finishing is everything. <L120>
• When we’re young, we may think we’re just starting our race but we don’t know how long our lives will be; that is why we want to run the race of life well, regardless of age
• Paul says that he wants to finish his race with joy; some Christians may have started off their race with joy but then something happened to them and they lost the joy of running the race
• For the Christian, the race of life is not a sprint but a long-distance run
• You can’t run a good race if you’re looking over your shoulder because you can trip and fall; don’t look wistfully at the sinful things you used to do -- put them behind you!
• Run your race for Jesus
• Don’t run the race for anyone else and don't run it out of duty
• You have an audience of one; Jesus Christ Himself is watching you -- so run for Him!
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.
Philippians 2:16 NIV
[16] 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.
Hebrews 12:1-2 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.
** A shepherd has two instruments with him -- a rod and staff <H86>
• The staff with a crook at the end is to guide the sheep and keep unity among them
• The rod is to fight off enemies that could harm the sheep
• Jesus will come back to rule with a rod of iron
Psalm 23:4 NIV
[4] Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
** The parable of the sower encourages us not to worry about the results from when we share the gospel -- just make sure we spread the message!
• We are to spread the gospel seed indiscriminately
• It's crucial the message is understood so there is a chance of it taking root
• Results may be negligent or short-lived at times, while at other times God may use our efforts to multiply and produce long-lasting results
• An individual's response may vary:
A. Not understanding the message so Satan can snatch the truth away (path)
B. Quick to receive the message but it doesn't take root so it cannot endure difficult times (rocky)
C. Worries and temptations of life take over and make the message irrelevant (thorns)
D. Listens, understands and accepts the message before spreading the good news; the effect of this increases the yield (good soil)
• While there will be varied response, ultimately, every individual is responsible for their decision
Luke 8:5-8 NIV
[5] “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds ate it up. [6] Some fell on rocky ground, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. [7] Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. [8] Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown.” When he said this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”
** We need to be ready to humbly share our faith story to point others to Christ and allow God to work in their hearts to bring them to a point of repentance
John 1:35-37 NIV
[35] The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. [36] When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” [37] When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus.
• When we point others to Christ we can love them without worrying about whether they love us
• Jesus' first words ask John's disciples (Andrew, Philip, Nathanael) "what do you want?"
• Jesus first command is to "come and see"; simple command that allows God to work in ways we could never imagine
• We don't have to explain and convince but let others see the living Christ
• Jesus knows us already, just like He knew Nathanael and where he was
• Jesus knows our thoughts, our fears, our hearts; He can speak to us in ways that others simply cannot
• Jesus is the ladder, the access, for us to experience God and heaven
** The vine is a frequent illustration in the Old Testament of God’s people <R1795>
• Psalm 80:8 speaks of Israel as a ‘vine brought out of Egypt’
• The clearest use of the image is found in Isaiah 5
• But Israel failed to produce the fruit of righteousness and justice that God looked for, so Christ came as the ‘true Vine’ that in and through Him all believers might produce the fruit of true godliness
• Only through relationship with Jesus can anyone strive for the moral qualities that God seeks
Psalm 80:8 NIV
[8] You transplanted a vine from Egypt; you drove out the nations and planted it.
Isaiah 5:1-2,7 NIV
[1] I will sing for the one I love
a song about his vineyard: My loved one had a vineyard on a fertile hillside. [2] He dug it up and cleared it of stones and planted it with the choicest vines. He built a watchtower in it and cut out a winepress as well. Then he looked for a crop of good grapes, but it yielded only bad fruit. [7] The vineyard of the Lord Almighty is the nation of Israel, and the people of Judah are the vines he delighted in. And he looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress.
** A branch that is properly grafted in the vine will be healthy and naturally bear fruit; a vine that is not properly connected to the vine will die and be thrown aside <B299>
John 15:4 NIV
[4] Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
** Most people strive to make sense of what is happening around them and overlook that they are only one small part of God's plan
• Don't be baffled when you don't understand God because you're not supposed to; just lean into 'trusting Him' <W217>
• Don't be distracted by man's attempt at reasoning (via social media etc) but rather focus on God's Word to know how you fit into the big picture <W2200>
• When we look at Scripture we should remember that 'faith' doesn't make sense and 'sense' doesn't make faith
• The argument that God's Word was only relevant for previous generations doesn't apply because God, in His infinite wisdom, already considered His Word for our time
• Trust God at His Word as countless followers of God through the centuries have done
• Scripture is filled with examples of people who learned to trust God because He always followed through on what He said -- that's a track record we can depend on!
• Christians are to accept they will not always understand the ways of God but can learn to obey God regardless
• If we do not obey God, we are not operating within His desire for us or His masterful plan <W2196>
Isaiah 55:8 NIV
[8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
1 Corinthians 1:25 NIV
[25] For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
** 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?
** 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.”
** Pastors who want to 'keep politics out of their church' need to admit that political issues often cross into the realm of morality <G70>
• Christians do not place their faith and motivation in any political worldly system, but are still called to be part of this system in order to influence it for God
• Jesus was about as ‘political’ as they come, for He spoke against political power most everyday <K110>
• Yes, God’s kingdom is not of this earth, but He has called His followers here for a reason – to stand up for His truth and shine His light into dark places!
• Too many congregants hear a weekly dose of easy passages that actually lead them away from the FULL counsel (truth) of God
• Congregants need to critically think and determine which political ideas and societal responses go against God's Word
• Pastors need to critically analyze moral issues with their congregation, even when the issues are visible in the political sphere
• Jesus challenged His opponents to critically think -- an "intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action." <C407>
• The Christian faith demands critical thinking and determining whether God and His commands are true or not; everyone must give an account as to WHY they believe or not when this life is over <D40>
• Those who are not challenged, do not mature in Christ, don't learn what it means to be a Berean and won't be able to handle the persecuted hardship it takes to be His disciple
Mark 8:34 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.
2 Timothy 3:16 NIV
[16] All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness
2 Timothy 4:2-4 NIV
[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.
** 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.”
** Spirit-led people are spiritually-minded people. The mind is command central. That’s why we need to think about things that please the Holy Spirit. And it’s why we need to protect our minds. It comes down to what we think about.
A person's thoughts lead to actions and habits, which ultimately lead to influencing their character and setting a destiny. As British author Samuel Smiles pointed out, “Sow a thought and you reap an act; sow an act and you reap a habit; sow a habit and you reap a character; sow a character and you reap a destiny.” <L120>
Romans 8:14 NIV
[14] For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.
** Loving one another does not mean we stop holding each other accountable; there is a place for discernment and judgment in love
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.”
Job 15:31 NIV
[31] Let him not deceive himself by trusting what is worthless, for he will get nothing in return.
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.
** 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.
** Followers of Christ stand for righteousness in an increasingly dark world <J102>
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.
Romans 6:18 NIV
[18] You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.
Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV
[22] You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; [23] to be made new in the attitude of your minds; [24] and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
** The wise place a high value on 'understanding' that motivates their diligent search for wisdom
• Similar to those who seek after precious and expensive jewels
• Such dependence on the words of Scripture is especially needed with biblical prophecy
• Unless one is willing to do the hard work of thoroughly examining God’s Word and letting the words of the text speak for themselves, one is likely to wander down an erroneous path that leads to drowsiness found in the bubble of 'normalcy' <B26>
Proverbs 2:4-6 NIV
[4] and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, [5] then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. [6] For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
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. [11] By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
** 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.
** Believers in Christ are salt of the earth -- salt that does not resolve (or fix/revive) the decaying carnage but slows down its decay in order to share the Good News of Christ with others <T203>
Matthew 5:13a NIV
[13] “You are the salt of the earth.
** Our faith involves the mind so we can “reason together, says the Lord” <H99>
• The mind finds its interface in the brain, a fleshy organ that learns and adapts
• This gray matter can become habituated to lifestyle, thought patterns, and thinking processes
• Just like an exercised muscle becomes stronger, so also the physical pathways of the brain
1 Thessalonians 5:6 NIV
[6] So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.
1 Peter 4:7 NIV
[7] The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.
• Faith, belief, and obedience are connected to reasoning
• As Apostle Paul admonished, we are urged to use our mind and not put our brains on the shelf
• In contrast, cultic religions try to immobilize and disable the mind — to circumvent the natural safeguard of the mind
• As Christians, we understand it is true that our minds are not able to fully understand His greatness and His ways but we still accept logic and reason to support our beliefs
Isaiah 1:18 KJV
[18] Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord
1 Corinthians 14:15 NIV
[15] So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.
• Understand that our mind is the place of the spiritual battleground
• It is precisely what thoughts gain access to the mind — whether through eyes, ears, or spirit — that have an impact upon our hearts and soul
• What the Bible calls the heart is, in essence, what our mind chooses to believe and pursue
Psalm 1:1-2 NIV
[1] Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, [2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
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.
** Christians are to stand firm in God’s truth and not simply ‘abdicate to get along’
• There is growing consensus that people must agree with everything others think in order to be seen as ‘tolerant’ — whether their thoughts are fact or fiction
• It is possible, however, for people to stand firm in their beliefs and challenge another’s ideas in a loving way
• If others are hurt because you won’t buy into their lies, then shrug off the label they try to place on you and remain standing for what you know to be true
• God gave man, through the Bible, the formula for living life the way He intended
• If those who claim to follow Christ knowingly abdicate from truth outlined in His Word in order to somehow ‘keep the peace’ then they are caving into the enemy’s lie — determine this day who you will serve!
“It is not intolerant to say that two plus two equals four, and not five. It’s the truth. You have a right to believe that the answer is five, but that idea is inferior to the truth, and it will harm you in many ways. The danger is that children will come to see confidence in one’s faith as intolerance. It is not. We can coexist and we can respect others without affirming lies or deprecating truth.” <L124>
“We live in an age when the lines of truth are becoming increasingly blurred. It's become fashionable to refuse to take a dogmatic stand about anything, especially Jesus Christ. And so, people everywhere are drifting from the truth. I want to exhort you to cling to the truth at all costs. The world is fast coming to a point of abandoning the truth. Don't go along with the crowd—stand up for the truth! It might cost you everything. But one day, if you stand fast, you're going to hear some beautiful words from Jesus' own lips: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’” <H993>
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?
Matthew 6:24 NIV
[24] “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Joshua 24:15 NIV
[15] But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
** God created the family unit to set the pace for which society was created; God designed the family and decided what it would be <E54>
• God owns the family by ‘created fiat’ — not government or anyone else
• God backs the family when they operate as He created them to operate
• Men must take on the responsibility they have in the family, and own their mistakes, or paganism sets in <E58>
• Families who choose to go their own way will ‘pick up the tab’ to fix the issues that arise
• The future of every civilization rests on the state of the family <D40>
Genesis 5:1 NIV
[1] This is the written account of Adam's family line. When God created mankind, he made them in the likeness of God.
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.
Isaiah 3:12 NIV [When men do not lead]
[12] Youths oppress my people, women rule over them. My people, your guides lead you astray; they turn you from the path.
** Part of being ‘wise about what is good’ involves knowing the enemy’s playbook; read up on competing worldviews to be able to defend the Christian belief <H86>
Romans 16:19 NIV
[19] Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
** God instructed Moses how and when to setup the tabernacle
• Moses was responsible to supervise and inspect the work of the people
• But he himself always remained subject to the word of God
• We can only trust leaders who are themselves willing to submit to the Word of God <R1795>
Exodus 40:1-4ff NIV
[1] Then the Lord said to Moses: [2] “Set up the tabernacle, the tent of meeting, on the first day of the first month. [3] Place the ark of the covenant law in it and shield the ark with the curtain. [4] Bring in the table and set out what belongs on it. Then bring in the lampstand and set up its lamps.
** Combat lies and temptation using Scripture just as Jesus defended Himself against Satan with Scripture in the wilderness <G795>
• There is authority and power in the Word of God
• Three times the devil tried to get Jesus to do wrong, and all three times Jesus countered his attack by quoting the Word of God
• The result was the devil going away
• Keep the enemy off-balance by immersing yourself in Scripture!
• When the enemy has you surrounded, keep him on the defensive with the Word of God <L120>
Matthew 4:1,4,7,10 NIV
[1] Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. [4] Jesus answered, “It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' ” [7] Jesus answered him, “It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' ” [10] Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.' ”
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.
• Unfortunately, too many who claim to be followers of Christ do not know His Word even at the most basic level
• It doesn’t take long then for the church to join forces with the world when they don’t have Scripture as their plumb-line for truth
• It doesn’t seem to matter that Scripture opposes this alliance
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.
** We should be in prayer continuously <L120>
• Pray when we are young
• Pray when we are old
• Pray when we are in trouble
• Pray when things are going well
• Pray in any posture
• Pray in any place
• Pray at any time, and
• Under all circumstances
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.
** Isaiah conveyed God’s warning to Ariel (‘lion of God’) and the City of David (Jerusalem) regarding a siege that would come upon them within one year’s time
• Isaiah used the name ‘Ariel’ because the Jewish capital had previously been an advocate of Jehovah, a warrior fighting battles with a lion’s courage and fierceness <B20>
• The people of this city practiced empty rituals which God abhors
• While these rituals were thought to please God, they contained words and actions that were meaningless not only to the one practicing the ritual but, ultimately, to God as well
Isaiah 29:1-4 NIV
[1] Woe to you, Ariel, Ariel, the city where David settled! Add year to year and let your cycle of festivals go on. [2] Yet I will besiege Ariel; she will mourn and lament, she will be to me like an altar hearth. [3] I will encamp against you on all sides; I will encircle you with towers and set up my siege works against you. [4] Brought low, you will speak from the ground; your speech will mumble out of the dust. Your voice will come ghostlike from the earth; out of the dust your speech will whisper.
Isaiah 29:13-14 NIV
[13] The Lord says: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught. [14] Therefore once more I will astound these people with wonder upon wonder; the wisdom of the wise will perish, the intelligence of the intelligent will vanish. ”
Isaiah 1:14 NIV
[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.
Isaiah 5:12 NIV
[12] They have harps and lyres at their banquets, pipes and timbrels and wine, but they have no regard for the deeds of the Lord, no respect for the work of his hands.
** The Lord wants followers who are willing to serve Him wholeheartedly; He knows our priorities since He can see our very heart, act, thought and motive
Psalm 44:20-21 NIV
[20] If we had forgotten the name of our God or spread out our hands to a foreign god, [21] would not God have discovered it, since he knows the secrets of the heart?
1 Chronicles 28:9 NIV
[9] “And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever.
1 Samuel 16:7 NIV
[7] But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
** Although I agree that an elder form of church leadership has biblical merit, I have observed that when the pastoral staff and board regard the church as a kingdom, they often see themselves as rulers rather than shepherds. Please understand that shepherds lead, they never rule.
The result of such domineering leadership is that those in the chairs have no say in the staffing of the church; the elders make all decisions concerning the mission and affair of the church. Because the staff and elders themselves have the final say in who joins their select group, they become a self-propagating group that strictly maintains the company line of covenant theology.
Additions to the pastoral staff are announced to the church and it’s often the case that they have received training at a seminary that teaches covenant theology.
The ruling board at such institutions often becomes an ingrown clique that excludes all viewpoints with which they disagree. This dictatorial approach to church leadership might seem okay when all their beliefs are biblically sound, but what if they are not? What if they have unbiblical views of the Rapture and Tribulation, such as those that hold to covenant theology? What if the pastor believes one can lose his or her salvation? In either case, there’s no room for a dissenting voice or for a discussion of what the Bible teaches.
If one happens to have gray hair, it’s all the more the reason for Diotrophes-like pastors/elders to dismiss that person as a nobody with little value, just as this elder from long ago treated the aged Apostle John with much disdain. Based on the emails I have received, I know many of you in the remnant community have experienced such disrespect. <B26>
1 Timothy 5:20 NIV
[20] But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.
** How do we fit into a world that does not follow logic anymore but chooses to feed off self-promotion, self-interest and selfish emotion?
• Continue to pray for those around you while maintaining a relationship anchored in God
• Do not hold back from voicing God’s truth — the full counsel of God as outlined in Scripture
• Point the way to Christ so others can transform their life when following His plan of salvation and commands
Acts 20:27 NIV
[27] For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.
Matthew 6:31-33 NIV
[31] So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' [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.
Aim to be a ‘buoy for Christ’ in today’s stormy waters, giving others hope when directing them away from false teaching and narcissism but showing them where they can access the love of God
• Buoy = an anchored float serving as a navigational mark to show and warn of hazards ahead
• As we remain anchored to Christ, pray that what others can see from us reveals God’s truth as a comfort to them in the storms of life
• Remind everyone tossed by the waves (believer and non-believer alike) that they too can be anchored in Christ
Ephesians 4:11-15 NIV
[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.
Romans 8:35 NIV
[35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
** 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.
** Sanctification is God’s will for us and the act of sanctifying sets us apart for special use; to sanctify a person is to make him holy
• The word ‘sanctification’ is related to the word ‘saint’ — both words have to do with holiness
• In Christian theology, sanctification is a state of separation unto God; all believers enter into this state when they are born of God
• The sanctification is a once-for-ever separation of believers unto God
• It is a work God performs, an integral part of our salvation and our connection with Christ
• Theologians sometimes refer to this state of holiness before God as ‘positional sanctification’ that is related to justification <G72>
1 Thessalonians 4:3 NIV
[3] It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality;
1 Corinthians 1:30 NIV
[30] It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God---that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.
Hebrews 10:10 NIV
[10] And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
** 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.
** 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.
** 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.
** 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.
** 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.
** Leaders in Paul’s day were saying you can believe in Christ but you must also follow the Mosaic law
• Paul combated this false works-based teaching, saying the Judaizers who claimed to represent the Jerusalem church did not in fact have the approval of the original Apostles
• Those who truly grasped the gospel affirmed Gentile freedom from Jewish law, while others tried to impose Jewish laws and customs
• Watch out when young believers inform others how to live their Christian life; don’t accept their word but go to the Source! <R1795>
Galatians 2:2-4 NIV
[2] I went in response to a revelation and, meeting privately with those esteemed as leaders, I presented to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. I wanted to be sure I was not running and had not been running my race in vain. [3] Yet not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek. [4] This matter arose because some false believers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves.
1 John 2:18-19 NIV
[18] Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. [19] They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.
** One purpose of the Bible is to make believers prudent and to help guard them against craftiness with an evil purpose <H85>
Proverbs 1:1,4 NIV
[1] The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: [4] for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young---
Genesis 3:1 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'? ”
** 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.
** 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.
** If someone thinks believing in God is a fad or for weak people, remind them:
• Christianity would have been revealed as a scam a LONG TIME AGO
• God’s favored nation, the Israelites, would not have survived as a people without their own land, language and traditions from 722 BC to 1948 AD if God did not sustain them
• After 2000 years, followers of Christ continue to exhibit a strong faith even after the enemy’s countless attempts to squelch this belief
• If there was nothing to this, people would not be willing to be a martyr and die for Christ, including the eye witnesses (disciples) who spent time with Christ when He was with us
Philippians 2:16b-17 NIV
[16] 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.
Jeremiah 31:35-36 NIV
[35] This is what the Lord says, he who appoints the sun to shine by day, who decrees the moon and stars to shine by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar---the Lord Almighty is his name: [36] “Only if these decrees vanish from my sight,” declares the Lord, “will Israel ever cease being a nation before me.”
Philippians 1:21 NIV
[21] For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
** Every day we have the choice to either live for ourselves or deny ourselves. If we will seek first the kingdom of God and put our priorities in order, then the rest of life will find its proper balance. <L120>
Luke 12:31,34 NIV
[31] But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. [34] For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
** Tell the one you love the truth, regardless of how much it may hurt <F60>
Proverbs 27:5-6 NIV
[5] Better is open rebuke than hidden love. [6] Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
** Followers of Christ gain discernment (knowing right from wrong) through daily prayer and the Holy Spirit’s leading when studying Scripture
• The church should be a support and pillar for the Christian community, where believers can go to focus on God and be encouraged with His truth via Scripture
• According to John MacArthur, the biggest problem in the church is lack of discernment because churches don’t solely focus on God or desire to learn His full counsel available in Scripture
• Review Psalm 19 to read how David viewed the importance and power of God’s word
• Is it our desire to become wise and open our eyes to His truth so we can identify falsehoods?
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.
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.
** It often astonishes me that I did not see the importance of meditation upon Scripture earlier in my Christian life. We must consider what we read, ponder over it, and apply it to our hearts. The most important thing I do, is to read the Word of God and to meditate on it. Thus my heart might be comforted, encouraged, warned, reproved and instructed. <M140>
Some people like to read so many chapters every day. I would not dissuade them from the practice, but I would rather let my soul soak in half a dozen verses all day, than rinse my hand in several chapters. Oh, to be bathed in a text of Scripture, and to let it be sucked up into your very soul, till it saturates your heart! Set your heart upon God's Word! Let your whole nature be plunged into it as a cloth into a dye! <S185>
Psalm 119:97 NIV
[97] Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.
Psalm 77:5-6 NIV
[5] I thought about the former days, the years of long ago; [6] I remembered my songs in the night. My heart meditated and my spirit asked
** Paul was writing to Timothy regarding a specific church, however the INTENT of his message should be applied to other churches suffering similar sin throughout time and region
• God is a God of ORDER and that does mean hierarchy, as seen as a parent is responsible for guiding their child with unique (male and female) abilities and perspectives given to them by our Creator
• God designed us to operate a certain way and the Bible transcends cultures and time; therefore, Scripture offers us a plumb line to live according to His design — an Operation Manual if you will
1 Timothy 2:11-13 NIV
[11] A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. [12] I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. [13] For Adam was formed first, then Eve.
** 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.
** David was young, but he knew the Lord, and knew Him personally. His battle experience was not against men, but he had faced the lion and God gave him victory. He protected his sheep from the bear, and God gave him victory.
The army shivering with fear behind David might not have had his back. But David stood in that valley — the living God within him and the armies of heaven on all sides. Goliath’s size, experience, equipment, and power were as nothing before God. And David made sure that everyone understood Who Goliath opposed that day in the valley. The giant could easily defeat David alone, but he didn’t stand a chance against God.
Maybe you feel alone in the valley — ill-equipped and ill-trained. The Christian army behind you may seem weak, ineffective, compromised, fearful, or uninterested. That which stands against you may seem confident, powerful, and committed. Even in such a dire circumstance, you can say with Paul in
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.
It's not about you, your strengths, or your weaknesses. In Christ, you can face any enemy, defeat any giant because… the battle is the Lord’s! <L124>
1 Samuel 17:47-50 NIV
[47] All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's, and he will give all of you into our hands.” [48] As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. [49] Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. [50] So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.
** 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.
** “Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong, but it’s knowing the difference between right and almost right” <S185>
Luke 21:8 NIV
[8] He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and, 'The time is near.' Do not follow them.
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.
** Demonstrate your salvation by sanctification <H86>
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.
** 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.
** Paul wanted to know more of Christ, for Christ had appeared to Paul, was revealed in him, and was constantly preached by him <S183>
Christ was the:
• Object of his trust
• Subject of his ministry, and
• Joy of his heart
But Paul knew there was much in Christ with which he was unacquainted. He knew but in part. He desired, therefore, to know more of the:
• Glory of His person
• Riches of His grace
• Magnificence of His work
• Excellency of His natures
• Majesty of His kingdom!
Everything in Christ interested Paul. Creation was good, and grace was better. But Christ was best of all. Paul was never weary of thinking, speaking or learning of Christ.
Beloved, how is it with you? Do you sympathize with Paul in this desire of his heart? Is it your daily wish, ardent desire, and constant aim to know more of Jesus?
Throughout eternity we shall be learning Christ!
• He is the lesson placed before us in the church on earth, and
• He is the lesson placed before the church in Heaven.
Time is given us to learn Christ and eternity will be given to us to learn even more of Christ!
Philippians 3:10 NIV
[10] I want to know Christ---yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death
** 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.
** 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.
** While we’re going through a testing period, remember to place our primary focus on our Lifeline, not on the issues in front of us
• For instance, how do we respond to those who unjustly criticize us? Do we perpetuate the distraction Satan puts in front of us and take our focus off God?
• Be willing to let go of all infractions by others; not forgiving affects us at so many levels
• Carve room to develop a relationship with God over everything else; make Him priority number one!
Romans 12:12 NIV
[12] Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
1 Peter 3:12 NIV
[12] For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
Romans 8:6 NIV
[6] The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.
** When we are weak, we should run to God
• Satan's constant attack has resulted in the church having little influence and being weak
• Those who are low will be brought high through the power of God
• In the end, enemies will be brought low and prostrate themselves
Revelation 3:7 NIV
“To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.
** Christians are ambassadors for our sovereign Christ; this is not a metaphor but a responsibility
An ambassador has a specific role, not only to simply represent their king but to:
• Operate in an official legal capacity
• Go in with a mandate, not treat it like a flippant task that has low priority
• Put aside any personal interest so they can purely speak for the king
• Study and prepare to know who to represent
• Be an effective communicator
• Confidently represent their government and not them self
• Understand the culture he is placed in; being in their world, not becoming part of it
• Understand the issues coming and know the pressure points <T202>
2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV
[20] We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.
• As ambassadors for Christ, do we effectively and unapologetically defend the faith in season and out of season? <F61>
Colossians 4:6 NIV
[6] Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
2 Timothy 4:2 NIV
[2] Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage---with great patience and careful instruction.
** Offer a steadfast and intentional love toward God
Psalm 101:1-4 NIV
[1] I will sing of your love and justice; to you, Lord, I will sing praise.
** Everything we do should aim toward an upright blameless heart as we stand for what is right with integrity <C31>
• David celebrated God's love and justice
• We should emulate God and also be consistent in love and justice, no matter where we are
• We know our weaknesses so avoid anything destructive
Psalm 101:2-4 NIV
[2] I will be careful to lead a blameless life---when will you come to me? I will conduct the affairs of my house with a blameless heart. [3] I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it. [4] The perverse of heart shall be far from me; I will have nothing to do with what is evil.
** Draw your strength from God to live a life of integrity, then let others see what's on the inside and make sure it does not differ from what they can see on the outside; live your life free from hypocrisy!
• Henry Heinz (the ketchup king) lived and developed his business with integrity; his clear bottles of product showed everyone, "what you see is what you get"
• Some try to hide what's on the inside by putting a deceitful package on the outside
• Ask God to help set you free FROM hypocrisy in order TO DO other things and remain true to Him
• David was determined to live in integrity so he asked God for help
• David’s strength to live in integrity flowed from God's love and grace
• He chose to view life from God's perspective
• Likewise, we can choose to trust God's power to change our life and walk as needed in integrity — in God's way <C31>
Psalm 26:8,11-12 NIV
[8] Lord, I love the house where you live, the place where your glory dwells. [11] I lead a blameless life; deliver me and be merciful to me. [12] My feet stand on level ground; in the great congregation I will praise the Lord.
** 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.”
** 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>
** Feed the sheep, destroy the wolves: support those who follow Christ but do not put up with those who pretend to care about godly matters and do not genuinely care <D40>
John 21:17 NIV
[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.
Ephesians 4:2-3 NIV
[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.
Luke 9:5 NIV
[5] If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”
Luke 4:34 NIV
[34] “Go away! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are---the Holy One of God!”
** 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.
** 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
** Remain hopeful about the future by being introspective, setting your focus on God and remaining active to accomplish the tasks He had for us <C31>
A. Introspective
• Look inside at our motives, attitude and focus
• Do we recognize the earth as temporary and know that we are foreigners in a foreign land?
• Heaven is our real home
• Just like Caucasians cannot fit in Thai society, so we do not fit into the world's home and its standards
• We should consider how we faithfully live on a daily basis
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
B. Expectant
• Peter said we are waiting for the day of God, as we endure patiently through today's challenges
• We trust that God will work out His original plan for us
• Everything will pass away when God chooses to do so; He is in complete control
• When that occurs, we will be in perfect relationship with Him
2 Peter 3:12 NIV
[12] as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat.
C. Remain Active
• Waiting patiently does not mean being inactive
• Rather, we are to hasten the day of God, living to prepare for the way of God
• God requires us to do certain things before He returns; be salt and light to the world!
• Time seems to go quickly when we are busy and doing something meaningful
• There is a tension — God does not need us to accomplish His plans but uses us because He chooses to do so
2 Peter 3:14 NIV
[14] So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.
** God is far above us in every way — character, holiness, power, and majesty; we won't be in awe of God if we are not in love with God
1 Peter 1:17-21 NIV
[17] Since you call on a Father who judges each person's work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear. [18] For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, [19] but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. [20] He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. [21] Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.
Psalm 148:13 NIV
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.
Three ways to live in awe of God;
a) Remember that God is our Heavenly Father
• As a Father, He looks at us as one who loves us and as a disciplinarian and creator etc
• God wants what is ultimately good for us
• God does not show any partiality; stays doesn't matter but rather our sin condition
b) Rejoice that we have been ransomed (18-19)
• We are saved from difficult situations
• We are held captive until God provides Jesus to be our ransom
• Without Christ we are slaves to sin
• At the time when this was written, there were an estimate of 60 million slaves in the Roman Empire; they would understand the word 'ransom'
• We can do nothing to redeem ourselves (silver or gold) but only Jesus can meet God's requirement for the penalty of sin which is death
c) Rest secure in God's eternal plan (20-21)
• Jesus planned to die before He created the world!
• It is difficult to understand but we can be in awe that He thought of and provided a way to redeem us
• God chose the perfect time in history to come to earth and die for us; the Roman Empire was ripe for spreading the Gospel
• Christ’s resurrection guarantees our faith and hope
** God prepares us as long as we invest in the process; how do we know the will of God?
a) Develop a relationship and learn to listen so we can learn His voice
b) Focus on God, not yourself
c) Look for God working around you and allow Him to involve and stretch you
Matthew 16:19 NIV
[19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
** We call a lot of food that is not good for our body "junk food" and often ingest the same junk that is not good for us in our spiritual lives; we need to put more effort into staying away from that which is impure <C31>
Peter provides examples of junk to avoid:
• Malice = wanting something bad to happen to another
• Deceit = trying to trick someone by not telling the truth
• Hypocrisy = presenting yourself as someone you are not
• Envy = wanting something someone else has and consumes your thoughts
• Slander = talk bad about someone you can't stand; what you say may be true but what is your motive?
1 Peter 2:1-3 NIV
Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. [2] Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, [3] now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
Galatians 5:16-26 NIV
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. [17] For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. [18] But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. [19] The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; [20] idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions [21] 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. [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [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.
** Put off what is bad in order to mature and gain spiritual growth
1 Peter 2:1 NIV
[1] Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.
How do we put off the bad and put on good?
• Daily devotion and repentance
• DO what it takes to prove you mean business
• We can't be right with God and live in habitual sin at the same time
• Choosing and desiring Godly things is a choice and command
• God doesn't force us to make good choices but we need to desire it and act on it
• Making good decisions happens from the inside-out
• Choosing right takes effort, so study Scriptures, pray, and conduct ministry
• God helps us to accomplish this
Matthew 6:21 NIV
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
The process results is spiritual growth:
• God helps us to accomplish ridding ourselves of what is bad and clinging to what is good
• A lack of spiritual growth is abnormal as it would be not if a person did not grow physically
• God does not expect us to grow in the same way as others
• One thing is for sure: we need to rid ourselves of what is considered junk and choose the truth of God; we cannot determine our own standards!
• As a result of following God's truth, we experience genuine growth and salvation
James 2:17 NIV
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
If we don't replace the bad with Christ’s good then a spiritual vacuum occurs:
• Something must go in and Satan is going to make sure it isn't good
• Focus on the fruits of the Spirit <C31>
Luke 3:8 NIV
Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.
** How are we to respond in today’s culture war?
Follow God’s master plan to live faithfully and pray or, in other words, ‘be the church’:
• Do not bow the knee to idols
• Do not offer your children to sacrifices
• Do not worship false gods
• Do not give the government unconditional allegiance
• Give honor & duty to those who honor & duty is owed
• Follow and live according to God’s word
• Believe in eternal truth and an awesome God!
Paul was happy to pay the tolls for the roads he traveled to spread the gospel
• But when he was told he had to worship Nero, the answer was “no”
• The consequence, however, was Paul losing his head
• We need to be ready to suffer any consequence for living faithfully and praying <D40>
Galatians 3:11b NIV
[11] …the righteous will live by faith
** 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.
** We are commanded to love our enemies, all the while protecting our loved ones with a military-style defense
• Love our enemies but not at the expense of harm to our families and fellow citizens <G793>
Luke 6:27-29 NIV
[27] “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, [28] bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. [29] If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.
• Jesus turned over the tables in the temple because He was combating evil
• Likewise, we need to be willing to fight evil
Matthew 21:12-13 NIV
[12] Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. [13] “It is written,” he said to them, “ 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it 'a den of robbers.' ”
• Loving our enemies is not becoming a doormat so they can roll over us
• Rather, we should care for them and pray for their salvation, that they would repent and follow a new path with Christ as the head!
** Christians need to determine how to respond to current societal issues — what issue should we:
a) Receive
b) Redeem
c) Reject — start with this premise, rejecting the state/gov that wants to be worshiped yet intends to harm you
• To date the state has been forthright in changing definitions of parent, child, gender, marriage, etc
• Determine what issues require your time and effort
• Understand that mainstream identifies Christians as an enemy of the state everyday because of our stand on most issues
Follow the example of the early church, for they understood the chain of command — God first!
• Do not fear the one who can destroy the body but fear the One who can cast your soul into Hell
• Choose you this day who you will serve — your soul is in peril <D40> (Sep 2022)
Joshua 24:15 NIV
[15] But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
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.
1 Peter 4:11 NIV
[11] If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
** The wise men were Jewish scholars devoted to study Scripture
Matthew 2:3-6 NIV
[3] When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. [4] When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. [5] “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: [6] “ 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.' ”
People can know the Scriptures but not follow it, as what happened at the time when not only did they ignore Christ but put Him to death!
Likewise today: we can go to church, give and do all the religious things and not believe; God will not recognize those who do not recognize Him
Matthew 7:21-23 NIV
“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!’
** Knowing the star would lead them to Jesus the Messiah, the wise men were overjoyed and presented sacrificial gifts when they found Him; they were aware what God was doing and did not want to miss what God would reveal to them
Personal application:
• Are we willing to journey far and take risks?
• Do we fall at the feet of Christ and give our all to Him?
• Are we full of joy in His presence?
• Are we aware of what God is doing around us and desire to join Him? <C31>
Matthew 2:2,10-11 NIV
[2] and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” [10] When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. [11] On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
** Those who desire to follow God will handle their money with honesty and ensure that profit does not control their actions, such as charging exorbitant interest on money loaned to others
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.
** Our spiritual life is evident by what we say and how we control our tongue; death and life are in the hands of the tongue
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.
** Aaron and Moses’ sister Miriam challenged the leadership role of Moses – that he was the primary person through whom God spoke to His people
• God confirmed His choice in having Moses as the leader of His people
• Moses was characterized as a humble leader
• This is a good caution for leaders not to adopt and express elements of unbelief, pride and jealousy <R1795>
Numbers 12:1-2 NIV
[1] Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite. [2] “Has the Lord spoken only through Moses?” they asked. “Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” And the Lord heard this.
** Why should we control our tongue?
• It has capability of ruining our spiritual life
• Satan gains victory if we don't control our tongue
• God will judge our words
• Teachers will be held accountable especially because they can lead others astray
• Words will come back to haunt us <C31>
James 3:9-10 NIV
[9] 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.
** David went to God first thing in the morning in order to help him get through the day; it's the perfect way to start our day!
Psalm 5:3 NIV
[3] In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.
** There is a danger when associating with fools; value rebuke and appreciate 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.
Hebrews 12:11 NIV
[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.
** 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.
** 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.
** 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.
** While alcohol is not condemned outright, being intoxicated is; it is therefore prudent to temper its consumption
• Those who are wise avoid being intoxicated by alcohol because it clouds judgment and induces brawling
• Rulers were not to drink so their judgment would not be clouded <M130>
• How much more should those who follow Christ carefully watch our intake so it doesn’t cloud our judgment?
• Satan is looking for any opportunity to establish a foothold in our lives to further his agenda
Proverbs 20:1 NIV
[1] Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler;
whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
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 31:4-5 NIV
[4] It is not for kings, Lemuel---it is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, [5] lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.
** Solomon outlined the resultant dangers of craving alcohol
Proverbs 23:29-35 NIV
[29] Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? [30] Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. [31] Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! [32] In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. [33] Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. [34] You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. [35] “They hit me,” you will say, “but I'm not hurt! They beat me, but I don't feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?”
** If we claim to follow Christ, we will desire to be a good witness for Him by having fellowship with one another asking Christ to purify us from all sin
1 John 1:5-7 NIV
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.
** There has to be something different about us so people ask why we are the way we are, which is a perfect opportunity to explain how Jesus affected our lives <F60>
• Their questioning is better than forcing our testimony on others at will
• It’s a great opportunity to explain how He shaped our worldview which should further motivates us to think and act upon our beliefs
• The daughters of Jerusalem asked the woman why her beloved is so special and she had opportunity to explain why
• Radiant = pure
• Ruddy = strong
• Outstanding = leader
• Gold = divine
• Eyes as doves, by streams = prince of peace
• Lips dripping myrrh = speaking word of God
• Arms, body, legs = strength to do all things
• Mouth = speaking sweetness, no harshness
• Friend = relating to all, including sinners
Song of Songs 5:9-16 NIV
[9] How is your beloved better than others, most beautiful of women? How is your beloved better than others, that you so charge us? [10] My beloved is radiant and ruddy, outstanding among ten thousand. [11] His head is purest gold; his hair is wavy and black as a raven. [12] His eyes are like doves by the water streams, washed in milk, mounted like jewels. [13] His cheeks are like beds of spice yielding perfume. His lips are like lilies dripping with myrrh. [14] His arms are rods of gold set with topaz. His body is like polished ivory decorated with lapis lazuli. [15] His legs are pillars of marble set on bases of pure gold. His appearance is like Lebanon, choice as its cedars. [16] His mouth is sweetness itself; he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, this is my friend, daughters of Jerusalem.
** Wise people seek understanding, which means they are willing to REASON through arguments; on the contrary, fools just want to quickly air their opinions
Proverbs 18:1-2 NIV
[1] An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends
and against all sound judgment starts quarrels. [2] Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.
Proverbs 18:13,15 NIV
[13] To answer before listening---that is folly and shame. [15] The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.
Proverbs 20:15 NIV
[15] Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
Proverbs 25:15 NIV
[15] Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
Proverbs 26:17 NIV
[17] Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.
** Beauty is another quality of true manliness. It is not enough for a man to be true, to live honorably, to be just, to be pure and clean — he must also have in his life, whatever is lovely. All God's works are beautiful. He never made anything that was not beautiful. It is sin which spoils everything!
There are many lives that are not lovely in every feature. You see things in others which you cannot admire, things which are not beautiful.
• Fretting is not beautiful.
• Bad temper is unlovely.
• Discontent, jealousy, irritability, unkindness, selfishness are unattractive.
It is the work of God's grace, to make lives beautiful. All that grace does in us, is toward the fashioning of beautiful Christian character in us.
On a florist's signboard are the words, "Ugly corners made beautiful". The florist had reference to what he could do to beautify an ugly spot or a piece of landscape. He would trim out the weeds, plant flowers and shrubs, and transform a wilderness into a garden.
That is what grace can do in our lives. Some men seem to think that the fine and graceful things are only for women, not for men. But Christ was a man — a perfect, complete man, and there was not a single unlovely thing in His life.
• He was strong, but also gentle.
• He was just, but kindly.
• He was firm, but patient.
• He was righteous, and his indignation burned like fire against all hypocrisy and injustice, but his tenderness never failed. <M136>
Song of Songs 5:16 NIV
[16] His mouth is sweetness itself; he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, this is my friend, daughters of Jerusalem.
Philippians 4:8 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.
** 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.
** It is not mere outward ritual that God asks of me <S182>
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
• Reverence when 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!"
• 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 unburdening of 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 to love the Master
• 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
** The Lord cares for His children!
• He knows our needs and will supply them
• He knows our foes and will deliver us from them
• He knows our fears and will make us ashamed of them
He is your Father, and His love to you is infinite. You are His delight — His dear child. Will He neglect you? Impossible!
Cast then, your cares upon Him. Tell out all your desires, fears, and troubles to Him; let Him know everything; keep nothing back. And then in the confidence of faith, expect Him to fulfill His Word, and act a Parent's part.
But never for one moment, or under any circumstances, distrust Him! He cannot love you more! He is your ever present help. He will rejoice over you to do you good, with His whole heart and with His whole soul. <S183>
Philippians 4:6 NIV
[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
1 Peter 5:7 NIV
[7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
** Our complete delight should be in the Lord; wine is a metaphor for joy
• Our desire should be to move away from this world and draw toward Christ
• Draw to Him by choice, not because we have to
• When we draw near to God He will draw near to us
Song of Songs 1:4 NIV
[4] ...We rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine...
Hebrews 10:22 NIV
[22] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.
James 4:8 NIV
[8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
** Did Paul live a depressed and dismayed life, because he was perpetually denying himself out of love for others? Not at all. The very reverse is true. This was how he grew in spiritual strength and nobleness!
The discipline prospered his own soul.
• It gave him wisdom and insight
• It gave him courage and endurance
• It gave him sympathy and considerateness
• It gave him deep restfulness and glowing joy
• By it he gained inward vigor, and the glow of spiritual health, and spiritual life in its fire and force and fullness
And this was how he won the hearts of men and women. They saw that his was a yearning tenderness for them, which made him unconcerned for his own comforts. And so others were conquered, and melted, and led willing prisoners to the Lord Jesus. He drew them by the magnetism of his love for them--and they followed on.
And this was how he learned the secret of fellowship with Jesus. "Even Christ did not please Himself" Romans 15:3. The servant Paul came very close to the Master, and the Master to the servant, just as the servant took up his cross and gloried in it as he carried it in his arms. His little lamp was lighted from the flame around the Savior's sacrifice.
So Paul lived in a noble place because he looked perpetually not on his own interests, but on the interests of others. Let me master this truth. I shall never regret the surrender and sacrifice of my desires and interests. It is for my own good, as well as my Lord's wish and will. <S182>
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.
Romans 15:3 NIV
[3] For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”
** God asks us to act JUSTLY. I cannot be His, unless I do justly. Everything that takes an improper advantage of another, and all that departs from the straightest line of absolute rectitude, I must hate and renounce.
And God asks tenderness. He counsels me to love MERCY. The world is full of sorrow, and I am to move through it as a good physician, befriending and uplifting those in need.
It is what He does Himself. Every glorious quality has its fountain in Him, but pre-eminently the quality of mercy. He is the great Forgiver and the great Helper; no earthly father loves like Him, and no mother is half so mild. So my feeble torch is but kindled at His altar. My charities and philanthropies must be learned in His school, who pardons my ten thousand transgressions!
And God asks HUMILITY. He commands me to lay my hand in His, and to walk humbly in His company. Nothing is so essential as poverty of spirit. I only begin to be a disciple, when my proud heart is brought low, and my Savior is lifted high.
Now, my Father, if these are to be the features of my soul — then it is manifest that none but You can create them, and can nurture them, and can lead them to their perfection. Do the work Lord, and have the glory! <S182>
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.
** We can avoid God’s wrath by repenting and seeking righteousness in humility — turning from our sinful ways and asking His forgiveness
Zephaniah 2:1-3 NIV
[1] Gather together, gather yourselves together,
you shameful nation, [2] before the decree takes effect and that day passes like windblown chaff, before the Lord's fierce anger comes upon you, before the day of the Lord's wrath comes upon you. [3] Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord's anger.
** The prophet is surrounded by evil, lawlessness and injustice and wonders how long he must endure; those who practice evil will eventually be devoured while followers of Christ are to love one another during these times
Habakkuk 1:2-4 NIV
[2] How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? [3] Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds. [4] Therefore the law is paralyzed, and justice never prevails. The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted.
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.
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.
** The man of the house must take headship or RESPONSIBILITY, not tyrannical authority
His duties are to:
• Protect — to defend against those who would harm his family
• Provide — working to put food on the table
• Guide — giving counsel and imparting life experience
• As a result, he will earn a level of trust or faith because he demonstrated love and responsibility; others will desire to yield to him
• Christ demonstrated this responsibility to His enemies by dying on the cross; because He did this, Christ is the head of the church and all authority is granted to Him <D40>
Ephesians 5:23-24 NIV
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.
Romans 5:6-8 NIV
[6] You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. [7] Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. [8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us
** Men were designed to protect women who are on dangerous journeys; women typically have a foundational desire for their husbands and male friends to ‘step up’ when confronted with danger
Song of Songs 4:8 NIV
[8] Come with me from Lebanon, my bride, come with me from Lebanon. Descend from the crest of Amana, from the top of Senir, the summit of Hermon, from the lions' dens and the mountain haunts of leopards.
** Conditional blessings can include God coming near, fulfilling desires and watching over those who call, fear and love Him
Psalm 145:18-20 NIV
[18] The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. [19] He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. [20] The Lord watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.
Psalm 145:1-3 NIV
[1] I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. [2] Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. [3] Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
** A prudent child of God welcomes discipline for it strengthens and corrects his path
Psalm 141:5 NIV
[5] Let a righteous man strike me---that is a kindness; let him rebuke me---that is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it, for my prayer will still be against the deeds of evildoers.
** Make sure you recognize God’s blessings and promises in these days of confusion and dilution, so others will desire the same hope that you have in Christ
2 Peter 1:19 NIV
[19] We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.
2 Peter 3:13-14 NIV
[13] But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. [14] So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.
** Jesus had strong warnings against those who think highly and better of themselves than others
Matthew 23:29-32 NIV
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You build tombs for the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous. [30] And you say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ [31] So you testify against yourselves that you are the descendants of those who murdered the prophets. [32] Go ahead, then, and complete what your ancestors started!
** 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.
** Jesus had strong warnings against those who punish those who speak God's truth; the blood of His messengers will be on their hands
Matthew 23:33-36 NIV
“You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell? [34] Therefore I am sending you prophets and sages and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. [35] And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. [36] Truly I tell you, all this will come on this generation.
** The vices of leaders and rules will surely be punished and they will be answerable for their sin; what they have in idols did them no good <H83>
Micah 1:7 NIV
[7] All her idols will be broken to pieces; all her temple gifts will be burned with fire; I will destroy all her images. Since she gathered her gifts from the wages of prostitutes, as the wages of prostitutes they will again be used.”
** God’s love is ‘agape love’ which is a non-feeling self-sacrificing love for people who don’t deserve it — anything but ‘subjective love’ based on feelings <H86>
Jude 1:21 NIV
[21] keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
[4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
** 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?”
** 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.
** Believers in Christ cannot simply read His Word without listening to what the Holy Spirit has to say about what they are reading; discernment comes from the Lord, not the act of reading!
• The word for ‘makes judgment’ is anakrino, which is used 10 times in 1 Corinthians
• It means to examine, scrutinize and investigate
• The Holy Spirit confirms and communicates to us the very mind of Christ <R1795>
• We can know God’s will when following the Spirit’s guidance
1 Corinthians 2:14-15 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,
Hosea 14:9 NIV
[9] Who is wise? Let them realize these things. Who is discerning? Let them understand. The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them.
** God warned against those practicing deceitful business practices and taking advantage of the poor
Amos 8:4-6 NIV
[4] Hear this, you who trample the needy and do away with the poor of the land, [5] saying, “When will the New Moon be over that we may sell grain, and the Sabbath be ended that we may market wheat?”---skimping on the measure, boosting the price and cheating with dishonest scales, [6] buying the poor with silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, selling even the sweepings with the wheat.
** 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.'
** One of the fruits of the new birth is a faith which not only enables its possessor to overcome the sensual and sinful customs and the carnal maxims and policies by which the profane world is regulated, but also the lying delusions and errors by which the professing world is fatally deceived.
The only thing which will or can ‘overcome the world’ is a God-given, self-exercised faith.
• Faith overcomes the world firstly, by receiving into the heart God's infallible testimony of the world. He declares that "the world" is a corrupt, evanescent, hostile thing which shall soon be destroyed by Him. His Holy Word teaches that the world is "evil" (Galatians 1:4); that "all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — is not of the Father, but is of the world" (1 John 2:16); that "the whole world lies in wickedness" (1 John 5:19) and shall yet be "burned up" (2 Peter 3:10). As faith accepts God's verdict of the world, the mind is spiritually enlightened; and its possessor views it as a worthless, dangerous, and detestable thing!
• Faith overcomes the world secondly, by obeying the Divine commands concerning it. God has bidden us, "Do not be conformed to this world" (Romans 12:2); "Do not love the world, nor the things that are in the world" (1 John 2:15); and warns us that "Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world, becomes an enemy of God." (James 4:4). By heeding the Divine precepts, its magic spell over the heart is broken!
• Faith overcomes the world thirdly, by occupying the soul with more glorious, soul-delighting and satisfying objects. The more the substance of spiritual realities engages the heart--the less hold will the shadows of the world have upon it. "For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God" (Hebrews 11:10).
• Faith overcomes the world fourthly, by drawing out the heart unto Christ. As it was by fleeing to Him for refuge, that the soul was first delivered from the power and thraldom of this world, so it is throughout the Christian life. The more we cultivate real communion with Christ, the less attraction will the baubles of this world have for us! The strength of temptation lies entirely in the bent of our affections, "for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matthew 6:21). While Christ is beheld as "the chief among ten thousand" (Song of Solomon 5:10) and as "altogether lovely" (Song of Solomon 5:16)--the things which charm the poor worldling, will repel us.
The world gains the victory over the unregenerate by captivating their affections and capturing their wills. But the Christian overcomes the world, because his affections are set upon Christ and his will is yielded to Him.
Here then, we have a sure criterion by which we may determine our Christian progress or spiritual growth. If the things of this world have a decreasing power over me, then my faith is becoming stronger. If I am holding more lightly the things most prized by the ungodly, then I must be increasing in an experimental and soul-satisfying knowledge of Christ. If I am less cast down when some of the riches and comforts of this world are taken from me, then that is evidence they have less hold upon me. <P161>
1 John 5:4 NIV
[4] for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
** Saving faith causes:
• True worship
• Godly fear
• Devout thanksgiving
• Genuine humility
• Christian boldness
• Holy joy
• Evangelical repentance
• Enlarged liberality
• Fervent love
• Pure conscience
• Holy life
• Victory over the world
• Eternal glory!
Saving faith:
• Unites to Christ
• Lays hold of salvation
• Conquers every foe
• Brings every blessing into the soul
• Pronounces death abolished
• Always begets humility
• Is self-renouncing
• Consents to be nothing so God may be all
• Excludes boasting
• Is jealous for God's honor
• Brings forth forgiveness to enemies
• Begets repentance
• Nourishes other graces
• Ever clings to the fullness of Christ
• Kindles love to an unseen Savior
• Is ever laying its crown at the feet of Immanuel
• Puts things in their proper place
• Abases the sinner in the dust
• Sets God on the throne of universal dominion
• Pronounces all God's ways just and right
• Counts all things as loss, for the excellency of the knowledge of God's dear Son! <P166>
"True, saving, justifying faith carries the soul through all difficulties, discouragements, and natural impossibilities — to Jesus Christ!" <B29>
2 Peter 1:1b NIV
[1] To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours
** God prompts us to do what is best and right when He hems us in, confronting us with His wisdom as we face the inevitable; like a city under siege, hemmed inside and protected, even though we are being attacked from all sides, we need His help in order to do what is best and right
Psalm 139:1-5 NIV
[1] You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. [2] You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. [3] You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. [4] Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. [5] You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.
** If we want to follow God then we should do the following...
ENJOY GOD'S LOVE
• David was overwhelmed by God's creative touch, such as the number of thoughts of God, His knitting him together in the depths of the earth, being with us wherever we go in this world, etc
• Meditating on God's purposes encouraged David love; God working in every person's life should leave us in awe and motivate our love
• David praised God for His amazing consistent love
• Glimpses of God's love should leave us in awe
• There is always more to God which should help us love God in response
Psalm 139:17-18 NIV
[17] How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! [18] Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand---when I awake, I am still with you.
AVOID UNGODLY INFLUENCE
• David realized ungodly people (actively opposed to God) could pull him away and keep him from being what God wanted him to be
• "hate" in English language infers wishing something bad on another which is not what he wanted
• David chose to completely separate himself
• David left judgment and vengeance up to God, asking God to slay the wicked; he did not want that on his plate
Psalm 139:19-22 NIV
[19] If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty! [20] They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name. [21] Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord, and abhor those who are in rebellion against you? [22] I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies.
• We should never be careless about close relationships because it is probable that those who are opposed to God will bring us down
• Devotion to God should guide and permeate every trusting relationship; does the relationship help or hurt our relationship with God?
• At the same time, we need to exercise caution and balance: we are called to be salt and light to be a positive influence teaching others there is a God who loves them!
• Know which relationships are "trusting relationships"
Psalm 139:19 NIV
[19] If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty!
REMOVE ANY HINDRANCE
• David asked God to evaluate the innermost corners of his life, for He has perfect understanding and knowledge to help guide us
• God could see hindrances to his faith that he could not
• We will not grow until we are open to God'a searching love
• The process may be painful as we face and recognize our failures
• God wants to turn our failures into victories!
• God will expose to us anything that holds us back when we ask and are ready for Him to do so
Psalm 139:23-24 NIV
[23] Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. [24] See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
LIVE IT OUT
• What needs to happen in your life so you can enjoy God's love more than you do now?
• God has poured Himself into us before we were even born; what is our response and how (are) we pouring ourself back into Him? <C31> (Nov 2016)
** There was nothing to prove for David but his love for God; as king, David was telling the nation to put their trust in God and not their king
Psalm 131:3 NIV
[3] Israel, put your hope in the Lord both now and forevermore.
** 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.
** There is no salvation through Christ without humility <F67>
• Humility is required for salvation (Psa 34:18; 51:17; Isa 66:2; Matt 5:3-5; 18:34; Phil 3:3)
• Likewise, no man can serve or glorify God in this world without this God-given "humbleness of mind" (Col 3:12)
• Anything done for Christ must be done with humility (Matt 6:3, 5, 16, 33)
• Humility is not an act, but an attitude of the heart
• Humility is the brokenness of the heart before God by reason of sin and in gratitude for His love, mercy, and grace to sinners in Christ
Here are five things revealed in the Word of God regarding characteristics of humility:
1. Humility is a realization of personal unworthiness before God, by reason of one's own depravity and sin (Job 42:5-6; Psa 51:4-5). It is not a show of words which sound humble, but which are designed to gain praise. Rather, it is a heartfelt unworthiness before the holy Lord God (Luke 18:13; Isa 6:5).
2. Humility is a renunciation of all merit and personal righteousness in the sight of God (Phil 3:9). No man's heart is humbled before God so long as he imagines that he has anything by which he may merit God's favor or, his righteousnesses are more than filthy rags in God's sight (Isa 64:6).
3. Humility is an inexpressible gratitude of heart to God for His abundant, amazing grace to sinners in Christ (Psa 116:12, 16). It causes a person to live with a sense of delightful obligation and indebtedness to the Lord God.
4. Humility is a willing submission and devotion of one's heart to the Lord Jesus Christ that cries, "Lord, what will you have me to do?" (Acts 9:6). Humility is…
• devotion to Christ as Lord,
• submission to His providential rule of all things,
• a determination of heart to obey and honor Him regardless of cost.
5. Humility gladly ascribes the whole work of salvation to God's free and sovereign grace through Christ (1 Cor 15:10). <F67>
Acts 20:19 NIV
[19] I served the Lord with great humility and with tears and in the midst of severe testing by the plots of my Jewish opponents.
** 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 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> (2018)
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.”
** God reiterates the duties of the leader-priests, to teach the people what is clean and unclean
Ezekiel 44:23 NIV
[23] They are to teach my people the difference between the holy and the common and show them how to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.
** Children of God! your heavenly Father says, "All things are yours!" (1Cor 3:21) — and so they are, in the degree and manner that is good for me. All the gold in the world is Christ's, and as His child, He gives me just as much as suits my best interest. If more were good for me, would not my loving Savior give me more: money, or material things, or health, or friendship?
Come back, then, wandering desire! Do not roam abroad over that which is not yours — that is forbidden ground.
What is your present lot? Scan it well; look at it through the lens of faith, and you will see a blessing in it. You will find a Father's love, a Savior's presence, and the Spirit's comforts wrapped in the garb of present things, and rays of glory coming from them all.
Is not what I now have, better than the cravings of wandering desire, with such realities, better, far better, than the shadows of wandering desire! <M138>
Hebrews 13:5 NIV
[5] Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
** 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.
** The first chapter of the book of Psalms provides a description of the godly man that is at first negative:
• There are certain things he never does.
• There are places in which he is never seen.
• He does not make wicked men his advisers.
• He is not seen with those who are evil.
• No one ever sees him among mockers.
Thus the godly man is known by what he does not do.
Then there are things that the godly man does:
• He loves God's word, reads it, and feeds upon it.
• He is careful to live where his life may be nourished by the streams of grace.
As a result:
• He is like a tree in his beauty and in his fruitfulness.
• Fruit is the test of Christian character.
Then the godly man's life does not wither in heat or drought. It is perennial, and lives in all kinds of weather. Another feature of his life is that everything he does prospers — not always in worldly things, but even in his losses and trials, he is still blessed. <M136>
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.
Psalm 1:1-3 NIV
[1] Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, [2] but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. [3] That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither---whatever they do prospers.
** God lists specific actions of one who is deemed righteous, such as one who:
• does not look to idols or shrines
• does not sexually defile a woman
• does not oppress anyone
• repays his loans
• does not commit robbery
• gives to the hungry and naked
• does not profit from the poor
• judges fairly between two parties
• keeps God’s law
Ezekiel 18:5-9 NIV
[5] “Suppose there is a righteous man who does what is just and right. [6] He does not eat at the mountain shrines or look to the idols of Israel. He does not defile his neighbor's wife or have sexual relations with a woman during her period. [7] He does not oppress anyone, but returns what he took in pledge for a loan. He does not commit robbery but gives his food to the hungry and provides clothing for the naked. [8] He does not lend to them at interest or take a profit from them. He withholds his hand from doing wrong and judges fairly between two parties. [9] He follows my decrees and faithfully keeps my laws. That man is righteous; he will surely live, declares the Sovereign Lord.
** All of Christian life is a school. "Learn from Me," said the Master. We are only beginners when we first become Christians and enter Christ's school. We begin at the lowest grade. We do not have to wait until we know a great deal before we begin to attend school. School is not for finished scholars but for the most ignorant. We may come to Christ when we know almost nothing. He is the teacher and all believers are learners.
Matthew 11:29 NIV
[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.
** 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!
** 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.
** We are always at school in this world, for God is teaching us the things we need to learn <M136>
People sometimes think that salvation imparts:
• Godly virtues
• Fine qualities of Christian character
• Lovely traits of disposition, and
• Elements of spiritual beauty — without any cost or effort to the believer himself!
Christ's followers are transformed: old things pass away, and all things become new. Those who believe in Him, are fashioned into His image. But these blessings do not come easily. The heavenly graces are not put into our life, as one might hang up lovely pictures on the walls to adorn a home! They must be wrought into our life in a sense, by our own hands. We must work out our own salvation — although it is God who works in us, both to will and to work.
For example, patience is not put into anyone's life, as one brings in a piece of new furniture. You cannot merely receive patience as a gift from God. Patience is a lesson to be learned, through long and watchful self-discipline. Christ is the teacher, but you are the student, and it is the student who must learn the lesson! Not even Christ will learn it for you, to spare you the effort. Nor can it be made an easy lesson for you. It costs to grow patient, and you must pay the price yourself!
The same is true of all the elements of a godly and worthy character. We are always at school in this world. God is teaching us the things we need to learn. The lessons are not easy, sometimes they are very hard! But the hardest lessons are the best, for they bring out in us the finest qualities, if only we learn them well.
Those, therefore, who find themselves in what may seem adverse conditions, compelled to face hardship, endure opposition, and pass through struggle — should quietly accept the responsibility; and, trusting in Christ for guidance and strength, go firmly and courageously forward — conscious that they have now an opportunity to grow strong, and develop in themselves the qualities of worthy and noble character!
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.
** Our Christian life demonstrated through our faith is a muscle like others in our body that need to be used & tested in order to grow
• We lose muscles we don’t use and the same will happen to our faith if we don’t exercise it
• Put into action your belief in God, that He hears you, loves you, wants what is best for you, is sovereign above all else… and then leave the results to Him
2 Corinthians 1:24 NIV
[24] Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.
1 Thessalonians 1:3 NIV
[3] We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
James 2:22-24 NIV
[22] You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. [23] And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God's friend. [24] You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.
** 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.”
** Paul, through the book of Romans, gives us the hope of the gospel; we too can receive the grace and apostleship as Gentiles are called to Christ
Romans 1:5-6 NIV
[5] Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name’s sake. [6] And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:16-17 NIV
[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. [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.”
• Paul provides incredible hope followers of Christ can have
• Then every once in awhile he turns his pen on the reader to make sure they are not too self-righteous and are willing to suffer for Christ
• Most American churches will simply skip the book of Romans because there is no ‘going around it’ but is confrontational and makes those who study it uncomfortable <D40>
Romans 8:12-13,17 NIV
[12] Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation---but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. [13] For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. [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.
** God can reveal to us what is deemed ‘unsearchable’, similar to God willingly providing wisdom when we ASK Him
Jeremiah 33:3 NIV
[3] 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'
Romans 11:33 NIV
[33] Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!
Luke 21:15 NIV
[15] For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.
James 1:5 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.
** 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.
** 'Where to go in sorrow' is one of life's great questions. For there are none to whom sorrow does not come at some time. The Master, whose footprints are on all life's paths, shows us the way to the refuge in the time of trouble. He found it in prayer. "Being in agony, He prayed."
We may listen at the gate of the Garden of Gethsemane, and learn how our Master prayed. He was facing a great sorrow and He pleaded with His Father, that it might not come to Him. We have a right, therefore, to ask in prayer that the trouble which seems imminent may pass, or that we may be relieved of the bitter anguish we are enduring. God will never blame us for such pleading.
There was another element, however, in our Lord's praying. In His most intense pleading for the passing of His sorrow, He still referred all to His Father. "Nevertheless, not as I will — but as You will."
There is no true prayer, which is not modeled after this pattern. We do not know what is best. We do not know what is in the sorrow for us, for others, or for the divine glory; nor what would be lost if we failed to endure it. We must leave all with our Father, saying, "Nevertheless, not as I will — but as You will."
Then the Master found the comfort which He sought. His prayer was answered. The cup of suffering did not pass. The bitterness was not lessened in the smallest degree. So far as we know, not a single cruel element in the terrible experience was eliminated or even mitigated, because of the prayer in the Garden.
The answer came in another way. The Holy Sufferer was strengthened to accept the sorrow and endure it! And was not that an answer? Was it not a better answer, than if the dreadful anguish had been diminished? The pleading grew less intense as He went back again and again into the depths of the Garden, and at the end, the struggle was over — victory had been won and He was at peace!
Prayer is always answered. It is answered either directly in the giving to us of what we ask; or in ourselves, in enabling us to accept the will of God and rejoice. We shall never seek this refuge of prayer in vain. We shall always find comfort there, and peace — and always God will meet us to strengthen us! <M136>
Luke 22:40-43 NIV
[40] On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” [41] He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, [42] “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” [43] An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.
** Jeremiah respectfully questioned God; this reminds us when Job questioned God asking why he was born when he could be living in peace, at rest and away from evil
Jeremiah 12:1 NIV
[1] You are always righteous, Lord,
when I bring a case before you. Yet I would speak with you about your justice: Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all the faithless live at ease?
Job 3:11,13,16-17 NIV
[11] “Why did I not perish at birth, and die as I came from the womb? [13] For now I would be lying down in peace; I would be asleep and at rest [16] Or why was I not hidden away in the ground like a stillborn child, like an infant who never saw the light of day? [17] There the wicked cease from turmoil, and there the weary are at rest.
** Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord
Jeremiah 17:7-8 NIV
[7] “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. [8] They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”
Jeremiah 17:14 NIV
[14] Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.
** Jeremiah is to prepare a sign that all neighboring countries would be made subject to the king of Babylon; God asserts his right to dispose of kingdoms as he pleases
Jeremiah 27:2-6 NIV
[2] This is what the Lord said to me: “Make a yoke out of straps and crossbars and put it on your neck. [3] Then send word to the kings of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre and Sidon through the envoys who have come to Jerusalem to Zedekiah king of Judah. [4] Give them a message for their masters and say, 'This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Tell this to your masters: [5] With my great power and outstretched arm I made the earth and its people and the animals that are on it, and I give it to anyone I please. [6] Now I will give all your countries into the hands of my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; I will make even the wild animals subject to him.
** Jeremiah obediently prophesied to all the nations God identified
Jeremiah 25:17-26 NIV
[17] So I took the cup from the Lord's hand and made all the nations to whom he sent me drink it: [18] Jerusalem and the towns of Judah, its kings and officials, to make them a ruin and an object of horror and scorn, a curse---as they are today; [19] Pharaoh king of Egypt, his attendants, his officials and all his people, [20] and all the foreign people there; all the kings of Uz; all the kings of the Philistines (those of Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and the people left at Ashdod); [21] Edom, Moab and Ammon; [22] all the kings of Tyre and Sidon; the kings of the coastlands across the sea; [23] Dedan, Tema, Buz and all who are in distant places ; [24] all the kings of Arabia and all the kings of the foreign people who live in the wilderness; [25] all the kings of Zimri, Elam and Media; [26] and all the kings of the north, near and far, one after the other---all the kingdoms on the face of the earth. And after all of them, the king of Sheshak will drink it too.
** God will search our hearts for motive and reward us accordingly
Jeremiah 17:9-10 NIV
[9] The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? [10] “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”
** Many people set a great deal more stress on religious rituals than upon practical obedience. They will be faithful in attendance upon church services, devout and reverent in worship — and yet in their daily life they will disregard the plain commandments of God! They fill the week with selfishness, pride, bitterness, and evil-speaking — and then go to church on Sunday with great show of devotion to engage in the worship of God!
But what God desires before our worship can be acceptable, is that we obey what He commands us. He bids us to love one another, to be unselfish, patient, kind, honest, pure, true; and unless we obey these commands, our religious rituals, no matter how conspicuous, how costly, how seemingly devout and reverent are not acceptable to God!
There are many other phases of the truth. It is exact obedience which God desires, and not something else of our own substituted. When He tells a mother to care for her child, He is not satisfied if she neglects that duty to attend church. When God wants a man to help a poor family in some obscure street, He is not satisfied if instead of that lowly service, the man does some brilliant thing that seems to bring ten times as much honor to the Lord.
The supreme thing in Christian life is to obey God. Without obedience, nothing else counts. The obedience must also be exact, just what God commands, not something else. <M136>
1 Samuel 15:22 NIV
[22] But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.
John 14:15 NIV
[15] “If you love me, keep my commands.
** To pray without ceasing, is to do everything with prayer. This does not mean that every piece of work we undertake, must be begun with a 'formal act' of prayer--stopping, kneeling down, and offering a spoken petition. To pray without ceasing is to have the heart always in converse with God. It is to live so near to God--that we can talk with Him wherever we go--and seek His help, His wisdom, His guidance. God is our Father, with infinite love in His heart for us, ready and eager to help us and bless us in every way!
True prayer is not a matter of times and places. Wherever we go, we are with God. Whatever we are doing, our hearts may go out to Him. "Prayer is the Christian's vital breath--the Christian's native air!"
There is no habit that we should more sedulously form, than that of talking with God about everything we do. We are often told that we should begin every day with prayer--that is very needful and beautiful. The first face our eyes see in the morning, should be Christ's! His too, should be the first voice we hear; and to Him, our first words should be spoken! Ten minutes in the morning, yes, two minutes--spent really with Christ, will change all our day for us.
It is often said that we should 'count that day lost' in which no kindness is done, no deed of love to anyone, no help given. But sadder far is a day without prayer! It is a day without God, without heaven's light shining into it--a day unblessed! That morning you forget to pray, is a sad morning for you!
We should form the habit of praying at every step, as we go along through the day. That was part of Paul's meaning when he said, "Whatever you do, in word or in deed--do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." <M136>
Philippians 4:6 NIV
[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
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.
** We must always turn to God’s word for wisdom and truth
• Finding the Book of the Law under King Josiah was a huge discovery to understand how to follow God
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...'
• How do we make the right choice?
• We need the combination of God's word and the Holy Spirit (interpretation, direction and motivation) because it is all too easy to confuse our voice with God's voice
• The Holy Spirit will help confirm what we hear
• God's way may be difficult but it is the only path to peace and rest
• Consequently, we will not be able to rest if we do not follow God's way
Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
[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.”
• God helps us face difficulties in life when we follow Him but we need to stop and make right choices
2 Chronicles 34:31 NIV
[31] The king stood by his pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord---to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, and to obey the words of the covenant written in this book.
** We are encouraged to follow Jeremiah’s example to speak up even though we know no one will listen and we will lose the battle <K110>
• Jeremiah saw the death of his nation yet had a burning sensation from the Lord to speak anyway
• God wants us to speak, so we speak; ask others to pray for you to that end
• God will not only be with us in our endeavors but provide the needed words!
Jeremiah 1:6-8 NIV
[6] “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.” [7] But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, 'I am too young.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. [8] Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
Jeremiah 6:10 NIV
[10] To whom can I speak and give warning? Who will listen to me? Their ears are closed so they cannot hear. The word of the Lord is offensive to them; they find no pleasure in it.
Jeremiah 20:8 NIV
[8] Whenever I speak, I cry out proclaiming violence and destruction. So the word of the Lord has brought me insult and reproach all day long.
Jeremiah 26:2,7-8 NIV
[2] “This is what the Lord says: Stand in the courtyard of the Lord's house and speak to all the people of the towns of Judah who come to worship in the house of the Lord. Tell them everything I command you; do not omit a word. [7] The priests, the prophets and all the people heard Jeremiah speak these words in the house of the Lord. [8] But as soon as Jeremiah finished telling all the people everything the Lord had commanded him to say, the priests, the prophets and all the people seized him and said, “You must die!
1 Peter 4:14 NIV
[14] If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
Ephesians 6:19 NIV
[19] Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel
** Jeremiah’s enemies planned to attack him for speaking God’s truth and he asks God to make them pay for this
Jeremiah 18:18 NIV
[18] They said, “Come, let's make plans against Jeremiah; for the teaching of the law by the priest will not cease, nor will counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophets. So come, let's attack him with our tongues and pay no attention to anything he says.”
Jeremiah 18:22-23 NIV
[22] Let a cry be heard from their houses when you suddenly bring invaders against them, for they have dug a pit to capture me and have hidden snares for my feet. [23] But you, Lord, know all their plots to kill me. Do not forgive their crimes or blot out their sins from your sight. Let them be overthrown before you; deal with them in the time of your anger.
** An enduring servant must look to God for purpose and strength, remaining obedient even when provoked to rebel against excessively vile treatment; Jesus fulfilled this prophecy by remaining submissive to the Father’s will <M130>
Isaiah 50:5-7 NIV
[5] The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears; I have not been rebellious, I have not turned away. [6] I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting. [7] Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.
Isaiah 50:9 NIV
[9] It is the Sovereign Lord who helps me. Who will condemn me? They will all wear out like a garment; the moths will eat them up.
Matthew 26:67 NIV
[67] Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him
Matthew 27:26,30-31 NIV
[26] Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. [30] They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. [31] After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.
Mark 14:65 NIV
[65] Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took him and beat him.
Luke 22:63-65 NIV
[63] The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him. [64] They blindfolded him and demanded, “Prophesy! Who hit you?” [65] And they said many other insulting things to him.
John 18:22 NIV
[22] When Jesus said this, one of the officials nearby slapped him in the face. “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” he demanded.
** 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.
** We are to look to God and trust in His name; those who do not trust in God but in their own devices will suffer torment in the end
Isaiah 50:10-11 NIV
[10] Who among you fears the Lord and obeys the word of his servant? Let the one who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord and rely on their God. [11] But now, all you who light fires and provide yourselves with flaming torches, go, walk in the light of your fires and of the torches you have set ablaze. This is what you shall receive from my hand: You will lie down in torment.
** 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...”
** 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.
** God desires genuine repentance, for He found all Israeli sacrifices meaningless and even abhorrent if the offerer failed in His obedience to His laws; rebellion is equal to the sin of witchcraft and stubbornness to iniquity and idolatry <M130>
Isaiah 1:10-11 NIV
[10] Hear the word of the Lord, you rulers of Sodom; listen to the instruction of our God, you people of Gomorrah! [11] “The multitude of your sacrifices---what are they to me?” says the Lord. “I have more than enough of burnt offerings, of rams and the fat of fattened animals; I have no pleasure in the blood of bulls and lambs and goats.
Isaiah 1:13-15 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. [15] When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of blood!
** 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
** 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.
** The first commandment of the decalogue says, "You shall have no other gods before Me." The meaning of this precept, which is the foundation of all religion, is not merely that we shall not acknowledge any other God besides Jehovah —but also that we shall treat Him as God! That is, we...
• must love Him with all our hearts,
• serve Him with all our lives, and
• depend upon Him for our supreme felicity.
It is obvious that whatever we love most, and are most anxious to retain and please, whatever it is we depend most upon for happiness and help — whatever has most of our hearts — that is in effect, our God!
It does not matter whether it is friends, possessions, desires, or our own selves! These are the idols of the heart! <J101>
1 John 5:21 NIV
[21] Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.
** Do not quarrel over words, for Satan can influence Christians to do his dirty work <F60>
• Satan exists to steal, kill and destroy
• He desires to rob the Church of its joy, steal its strength and kill its witness/integrity
• When believers disagree, then search the Scriptures for truth and cling to Christ who provides 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.”
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.
1 Corinthians 1:10-17 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.” [13] Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul? [14] I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, [15] so no one can say that you were baptized in my name. [16] (Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I don't remember if I baptized anyone else.) [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 3:1-7 NIV
[1] Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly---mere infants in Christ. [2] I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. [3] You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans? [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. [7] So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.
** Enjoy your work and be thankful for God’s blessings in your life
Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 NIV
[18] This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them---for this is their lot. [19] Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil---this is a gift of God. [20] They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart.
** Solomon aptly reminds us that wealth is meaningless, for the wealthy can never get enough and they worry about what they have
Ecclesiastes 5:10 NIV
[10] Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.
Ecclesiastes 5:12 NIV
[12] The sleep of a laborer is sweet, whether they eat little or much, but as for the rich, their abundance permits them no sleep.
** Hoarding your wealth is a sin; we are to give generously to those in need without fanfare and, in this way, not only obey God’s command but gain great wealth
Ecclesiastes 5:13-14 NIV
[13] I have seen a grievous evil under the sun: wealth hoarded to the harm of its owners, [14] or wealth lost through some misfortune, so that when they have children there is nothing left for them to inherit.
Proverbs 11:24-25 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.
Proverbs 22:16 NIV
[16] One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich---both come to poverty.
Proverbs 25:21 NIV
[21] If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
Matthew 6:2-4 NIV
[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.
** We can find strength when we look to God
Psalm 105:4 NIV
[4] Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
** Even if we are not able to come together with others with a UNITY in TRUTH as Paul advocates, appreciate the opportunity to stand firm and share the gospel when possible; Paul experienced many hardships along the way but he always looked at the end result — the opportunity to preach!
Philippians 1:15-18 NIV
[15] It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. [16] The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. [17] The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. [18] But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice
Ephesians 6:13-14 NIV
[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
** Learn humility from Christ's humility. For due to the lack of humility, some angels became devils. When men glory in their pride, God stains the pride of their glory. The most lowly Christian is the most lovely Christian. <D42>
Matthew 11:29 NIV
[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.
Isaiah 23:9 NIV
[9] The Lord Almighty planned it, to bring down her pride in all her splendor and to humble all who are renowned on the earth.
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.”
James 4:16 NIV
[16] As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil.
Proverbs 8:13 NIV
[13] To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.
Daniel 4:37 NIV
[37] Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble.
** If we complained less and praised more we would be happier, and God would be more glorified.
Let us daily praise God for common mercies. They are common as we frequently call them, and yet so priceless, that when deprived of them--we imagine that we are ready to perish! Let us bless God for:
• Eyes with which we behold the sun
• Health and strength to walk abroad
• Bread we eat
• Clothing we wear
• Public and religious liberty
• Friends and family associations, and
• Countless other comforts and blessings
Let us praise Him, in fact, for everything which we receive from His bounteous hand; for we deserve little, and yet are most plenteously endowed.
But beloved, the sweetest and the loudest note in our songs of praise should be of redeeming love! God's redeeming acts towards His chosen people, are forever the favorite themes of their praise. If we know what redemption means, let us not withhold our sonnets of thanksgiving.
We have been redeemed from the power of our corruptions, and uplifted from the depth of sin in which we were naturally plunged. We have been led to the cross of Christ, and our shackles of guilt have been broken off. We are no longer slaves of sin but children of the living God. We shall shortly be presented before the eternal throne without spot or wrinkle or any such thing!
Awake, awake, O inheritors of eternal glory, and cry out with David, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me — bless His holy name!" <S185>
Psalm 107:8 NIV
[8] Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind
** 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.
** Make sure you follow Christ, not worry about whether you are following the crowd
John 21:21-22 NIV
[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.”
** Commit to the Lord your plans
• God honors and establishes plans that align with His will
• We can expect God to bring our work to fruition in God’s way and in God’s time when we depend on Him in our efforts
• Part of committing our work to God, of course, is seeking and following God’s will — when our work aligns with God’s will then success will follow <G72>
Proverbs 16:3-4 NIV
[3] Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. [4] The Lord works out everything to its proper end---even the wicked for a day of disaster.
Proverbs 19:21 NIV
[21] Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 20:18 NIV
[18] Plans are established by seeking advice; so if you wage war, obtain guidance.
Proverbs 20:24 NIV
[24] A person's steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand their own way?
Proverbs 21:30-31 NIV
[30] There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord. [31] The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.
** 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!
** Jesus knew when to reply and when to stay silent while on trial
• Jesus' lack of response was not out of fear
• He remained silent because He knew the authorities would not accept any defense offered
• Most importantly, Jesus wanted to advocate His Father's will toward crucifixion
Mark 15:2-5 NIV
[2] “Are you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate. “You have said so,” Jesus replied. [3] The chief priests accused him of many things. [4] So again Pilate asked him, “Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.” [5] But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed.
** The Lord will provide individuals understanding of situation and words for defense when asked
Proverbs 16:1 NIV
[1] To humans belong the plans of the heart,
but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.
** Solomon mentions the importance of women being of noble character in his proverbs
Character is defined as strength of moral fiber. A.W. Tozer described character as “the excellence of moral beings.” As the excellence of gold is its purity and the excellence of art is its beauty, so the excellence of man is his character. Persons of character are noted for their honesty, ethics, and charity. Descriptions such as “man of principle” and “woman of integrity” are assertions of character. A lack of character is moral deficiency, and persons lacking character tend to behave dishonestly, unethically, and uncharitably.
A person’s character is the sum of his or her disposition, thoughts, intentions, desires, and actions. It is good to remember that character is gauged by general tendencies, not on the basis of a few isolated actions. We must look at the whole life. For example, King David was a man of good character (1 Samuel 13:14) although he sinned on occasion (2 Samuel 11). And although King Ahab may have acted nobly once (1 Kings 22:35), he was still a man of overall bad character (1 Kings 16:33). Several people in the Bible are described as having noble character: Ruth (Ruth 3:11), Hanani (Nehemiah 7:2), David (Psalm 78:72), and Job (Job 2:3). These individuals’ lives were distinguished by persistent moral virtue.
Character is influenced and developed by our choices. Daniel “resolved not to defile himself” in Babylon (Daniel 1:8), and that godly choice was an important step in formulating an unassailable integrity in the young man’s life. Character, in turn, influences our choices. “The integrity of the upright guides them” (Proverbs 11:3a). Character will help us weather the storms of life and keep us from sin (Proverbs 10:9a).
It is the Lord’s purpose to develop character within us. “The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart” (Proverbs 17:3). Godly character is the result of the Holy Spirit’s work of sanctification. Character in the believer is a consistent manifestation of Jesus in his life. It is the purity of heart that God gives becoming purity in action. God sometimes uses trials to strengthen character: “we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4). The Lord is pleased when His children grow in character. “You test the heart and are pleased with integrity” (1 Chronicles 29:17; see also Psalm 15:1-2).
We can develop character by controlling our thoughts (Philippians 4:8), practicing Christian virtues (2 Peter 1:5-6), guarding our hearts (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 15:18-20), and keeping good company (1 Corinthians 15:33). Men and women of character will set a good example for others to follow, and their godly reputation will be evident to all (Titus 2:7-8). <G72>
Proverbs 12:4 NIV
[4] A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.
** 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.
** There is a contrast between words that are blurted out and thoughtful words that bring healing <M130>; a good witness has trustworthy words
Proverbs 12:18 NIV
[18] The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Proverbs 12:19,22 NIV
[19] Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. [22] The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.
** The prudent are measured in their response; a wise person is a model of restraint and humility, speaking what he knows at the appropriate time <M130>
Proverbs 12:16 NIV
[16] Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.
Proverbs 12:19,22 NIV
[19] Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. [22] The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.
Proverbs 29:11 NIV
[11] Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.
** We are to have a good work ethic and to provide for ourselves; laziness keeps the poor wanting
Proverbs 12:11 NIV
[11] Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.
Proverbs 12:14 NIV
[14] From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward.
Proverbs 12:24,27 NIV
[24] Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor. [27] The lazy do not roast any game, but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.
Proverbs 13:4 NIV
[4] A sluggard's appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.
Proverbs 13:8 NIV
[8] A person's riches may ransom their life, but the poor cannot respond to threatening rebukes.
Proverbs 13:23 NIV
[23] An unplowed field produces food for the poor, but injustice sweeps it away.
Proverbs 18:9 NIV
[9] One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.
Proverbs 24:27 NIV
[27] Put your outdoor work in order and get your fields ready; after that, build your house.
** 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.
** ‘Humble’ is a rare word in Scripture identifying a person who has a teachable spirit directed toward God, as in ‘walking humbly with your God’ <M130>
Proverbs 11:2 NIV
[2] When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
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.
Proverbs 15:33 NIV
[33] Wisdom's instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.
Proverbs 16:18-19 NIV
[18] Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. [19] Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.
Proverbs 18:12 NIV
[12] Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.
Proverbs 22:4 NIV
[4] Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.
** 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.
** Christians are to set all Christ's moral actions before them as a pattern for their imitation. In Christ's life, a Christian may behold the picture or lineaments of all virtues — and accordingly he ought to order his life in this world.
To walk as Christ walked is to walk...
• humbly,
• holily,
• justly,
• meekly,
• lovingly,
• fruitfully,
• faithfully,
• uprightly.
To walk as Christ walked is to...
• slight the world,
• despise the world,
• make a footstool of the world,
• to live above the world,
• and to triumph over the world as Christ did.
To walk as Christ walked is...
• to love those who hate us,
• to pray for those who persecute us,
• to bless those who curse us,
• and to do good to those who do evil to us.
To walk as Christ walked is to be patient, and silent, and submissive, and thankful under...
• the vilest reproaches,
• the heaviest afflictions,
• and the greatest sufferings. <B24>
1 John 2:6 NIV
[6] Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.
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.
** God revealed how the righteous were to lead a different lifestyle and not follow the crowd of evildoers when wanting protection
Exodus 23:2 NIV
[2] “Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you give testimony in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd,
Exodus 23:31-33 NIV
[31] “I will establish your borders from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea, and from the desert to the Euphrates River. I will give into your hands the people who live in the land, and you will drive them out before you. [32] Do not make a covenant with them or with their gods. [33] Do not let them live in your land or they will cause you to sin against me, because the worship of their gods will certainly be a snare to you.”
** A believer follows the Lamb TRULY, without hypocrisy
• Many follow the Lamb, as beggars follow a rich man only for his money
• They prize the wages of religion above the works of religion!
• Oh, beloved, God abhors a hypocrite more than a Sodomite!
• In contemporary terms, some prize the blessings or outcomes of having Christ in their life than desiring the relationship itself
John 6:26 NIV
[26] Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.
Revelation 14:4b NIV
[4] They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They were purchased from among mankind and offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb.
• My beloved, following the Lamb FULLY is to have the heart fixed and resolved for God
• He does not follow the Lamb wherever He goes, who follows the Lamb in some things and the beast in other things
2 Kings 17:33 NIV
[33] They worshiped the Lord, but they also served their own gods in accordance with the customs of the nations from which they had been brought.
Psalm 63:8 NIV
[8] I cling to you; your right hand upholds me.
Psalm 42:1-2 NIV
[1] As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. [2] My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?
• A believer follows the Lamb CONSTANTLY, without apostasy
• A true believer never stops following the Lamb
• He does not follow the Lamb wherever He goes, who follows the Lamb earnestly for a while but afterwards forsakes Him when the storm arises!
Matthew 13:21 NIV
[21] But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.
Follow the Lamb wherever He goes:
• Speedily
• Sincerely
• Whole-heartedly
• Zealously
• Humbly
• Cheerfully
• Diligently
• Constantly
• Faithfully
• Supremely
• Those who follow the Lamb ABIDE in the Lamb, and cleave to the Lamb, and continue constantly in the Lamb's ways, unto the end of their days <D42>
Job 17:9 NIV
[9] Nevertheless, the righteous will hold to their ways, and those with clean hands will grow stronger.
Hosea 6:3 NIV
[3] Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.”
** God provides a condition that He will make known His teachings when people change from their mocking simple unbelieving ways
Proverbs 1:22-23 NIV
[22] “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? [23] Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you, I will make known to you my teachings.
Proverbs 1:24-31 NIV
[24] But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, [25] since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke, [26] I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you--- [27] when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. [28] “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, [29] since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. [30] Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, [31] they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.
Proverbs 1:32-33 NIV
[32] For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; [33] but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.”
** Solomon warns his son about the conduct and results of getting involved with adulterous women
Proverbs 5:3,6 NIV
[3] For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; [6] She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths wander aimlessly, but she does not know it.
Proverbs 5:4-5 NIV
[4] but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. [5] Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave.
Proverbs 5:11-14,23 NIV
[11] At the end of your life you will groan, when your flesh and body are spent. [12] You will say, “How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction! [13] I would not obey my teachers or turn my ear to my instructors. [14] And I was soon in serious trouble in the assembly of God's people.” [23] For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly.
** Solomon provides an example of a young man being led astray with devastating results
Proverbs 7:7-10,18-20 NIV
[7] I saw among the simple, I noticed among the young men, a youth who had no sense. [8] He was going down the street near her corner, walking along in the direction of her house [9] at twilight, as the day was fading, as the dark of night set in. [10] Then out came a woman to meet him, dressed like a prostitute and with crafty intent. [18] Come, let's drink deeply of love till morning; let's enjoy ourselves with love! [19] My husband is not at home; he has gone on a long journey. [20] He took his purse filled with money and will not be home till full moon.”
Proverbs 7:21-23 NIV
[21] With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. [22] All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose [23] till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life.
** Stay away from sexual sin at all costs not only for personal reasons but because you cannot hide from God
Proverbs 5:8 NIV
[8] Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house
Proverbs 5:15-18 NIV
[15] Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. [16] Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? [17] Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers. [18] May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
1 Corinthians 6:18 NIV
[18] Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.
Proverbs 5:21 NIV
[21] For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all your paths.
** Mockers do not want to be corrected and will insult you, while the wise see correction as an opportunity to grow
Proverbs 9:7-9 NIV
[7] Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. [8] Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you. [9] Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.
Proverbs 12:1 NIV
[1] Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
but whoever hates correction is stupid.
Proverbs 12:15 NIV
[15] The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.
Proverbs 13:16 NIV
[16] All who are prudent act with knowledge, but fools expose their folly.
Proverbs 14:6 NIV
[6] The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.
Proverbs 15:10,12 NIV
[10] Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path; the one who hates correction will die. [12] Mockers resent correction, so they avoid the wise.
Revelation 3:19 NIV
[19] Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.
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 21:11 NIV
[11] When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise they get knowledge.
Proverbs 21:24 NIV
[24] The proud and arrogant person---“Mocker” is his name---behaves with insolent fury.
Proverbs 22:10 NIV
[10] Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended.
Proverbs 29:8 NIV
[8] Mockers stir up a city, but the wise turn away anger.
** 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! ”
** Who had a greater name for holiness, and who made a greater show of holiness, and who did more despise and insult other men for the lack of holiness than the Scribes and Pharisees? And who so miserable now as they?
Artificial sanctity is double iniquity! He who professes piety without being pious, and godliness without being godly; he who makes counterfeit holiness a cloak to impiety, and a midwife to iniquity; is ripened for the worst of torments! Those who are:
• Jacob without and Esau within
• David without and Saul within
• John without and Judas within
• Saint without and Satan within
• Angel without and devil within
Well, spiritual counterfeits, remember this, it will not be long before:
• Christ will unmask you;
• He will uncloak you;
• He will disrobe you;
• He will take off your masks, your cloaks, and turn your rotten insides outward to your eternal shame and reproach before all the world! <B24>
Matthew 23:14 NIV
[14] “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when you have succeeded, you make them twice as much a child of hell as you are.
** Take heed of settling yourselves under an unholy minister — of one whose life gives the lie to his doctrine. An unholy preacher is the greatest destroyer of the souls of men!
Let a minister be ever so learned, solid, quaint, elegant, zealous, judicious, sententious, etc.--yet if he is carnal, covetous, worldly, vain, and loose in his life and walk, his hearers will rather slight and abhor the holy things of God.
He who preaches well, but lives bad — does what he can, to murder all his hearers at once! There is no greater bar to holiness, than ministers' unholy lives. An unholy life mars the soundest and the sweetest doctrine. The sins of teachers are the teachers of sins!
When the preacher departs out of the way of holiness, the people will quickly wander from all that is good. He whose life is not a standing reproof to sin — will, by his life, encourage sinners more and more in a way of sin. There is nothing which keeps men so off from the love of holiness, and from the pursuing after holiness than the unholy lives of their ministers. <B24>
1 Timothy 4:12,16 NIV
[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. [16] Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Isaiah 9:16 NIV
[16] Those who guide this people mislead them, and those who are guided are led astray.
Titus 2:7 NIV
[7] In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness
** 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.
** 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> (2020)
• Historically, when times got hard it purged the church
• Those who remained were encouraged to preach the truth of God in the midst of their troubling times
• We can learn from the early church to always look to Him for strength and stamina
• No matter how formidable the enemy, the Lord will always go before His people and protect them
• The Lord promises to be with us always!
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.
** 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.
** We are to trust in Jesus Christ, which is contrary to the world’s thinking that promotes believing in ourselves; if we don’t have good self-esteem then the world says we need therapy!
Proverbs 28:6 NIV
[6] Better the poor whose walk is blameless than the rich whose ways are perverse.
Proverbs 3:5 NIV
[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
Luke 9:23-25 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. [25] What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?
** We have a responsibility to work with others, to warn, encourage, and help those we can help
• For the trouble-makers, warn them a few times, then have nothing to do with them because they have proven themselves self-condemned (warped and sinful)
1. Go to them alone
2. Go to them with a couple witnesses
3. Take it to the church leadership
4. If they still do not listen, treat them as a pagan so they will be ashamed, come to their senses and repent
Proverbs 6:12-19 NIV
[12] A troublemaker and a villain, who goes about with a corrupt mouth, [13] who winks maliciously with his eye, signals with his feet and motions with his fingers, [14] who plots evil with deceit in his heart---he always stirs up conflict. [15] Therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed---without remedy. [16] There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: [17] haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, [18] a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, [19] a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.
1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 NIV
[10] He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. [11] Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
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.
Titus 3:10-11 NIV
[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.
Matthew 18:15-17 NIV
[15] “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. [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.' [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.
• This passage is a good example for our all-inclusive everything’s-ok church of today, speaking the truth in love like a doctor who tells his patient he has cancer...
1 Corinthians 5:1-5 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? [3] For my part, even though I am not physically present, I am with you in spirit. As one who is present with you in this way, I have already passed judgment in the name of our Lord Jesus on the one 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.
• Then forgive the sinner and receive him back after he repents...
2 Corinthians 2:5-8 NIV
[5] If anyone has caused grief, he has not so much grieved me as he has grieved all of you to some extent---not to put it too severely. [6] The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. [7] Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. [8] I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him.
Matthew 22:37-39 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.'
• God hates this troublesome behavior because it hurts the ones He loves <F60>
** Two or three witnesses are required when bringing an accusation against a leader or elder
1 Timothy 5:19-20 NIV
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.
** 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.
** Job was concerned that his sons may have sinned in their hearts so he regularly performed a cleansing ceremony asking God to forgive their sin
Job 1:5 NIV
[5] When a period of feasting had run its course, Job would make arrangements for them to be purified. Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” This was Job's regular custom.
** Job is willing to take responsibility for his mistake if the accusations were true
Job 19:4 NIV
[4] If it is true that I have gone astray, my error remains my concern alone.
** Satan attacked Job by killing or stealing his livestock, killing his servants, and killing all of his children through the effects of a wind storm that collapsed the house where his children were feasting
Job 1:13-20 NIV
[13] One day when Job's sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother's house, [14] a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, [15] and the Sabeans attacked and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” [16] While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” [17] While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” [18] While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother's house, [19] when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you! ”
** Job’s response to the attack against his wealth and children is extraordinary: he worshiped God!
Job 1:20-22 NIV
[20] At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship [21] and said: “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.” [22] In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.
** 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?
** What does it mean to be a Christian?
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 every one 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.
** Christ is never sincerely loved, until sin is sincerely loathed! <W210>
** Mordecai exhibited a strong faith that God would save His people, providing “relief and deliverance”
Esther 4:12-14 NIV
[12] When Esther's words were reported to Mordecai, [13] he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. [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?”
Mordecai doubted that Esther would survive this edict and understood God’s providential timing in having her living in the king’s court
Esther 4:12-14 NIV
[12] When Esther's words were reported to Mordecai, [13] he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. [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?”
** God will do the same today, similar to Pharaoh rejecting God’s truth and power that Moses brought to him! Today we notice those who do not even consider facts/reason because they gravitate toward (demonic) power that they think will buy them security — whether individuals who feel helpless or government officials who don’t want to lose grip on what power they have. In the end, God gives them over to delusion of power so He can display His power!
Exodus 7:11-12 NIV
[11] Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts: [12] Each one threw down his staff and it became a snake. But Aaron's staff swallowed up their staffs.
When a culture replaces God with ‘anything’, God will give them over to what they want but they will not be happy with the results; they will witness His power and Truth while their idols fall. It is imperative as Christians that we remember TRUTH NEEDS TO BE STATED so God’s power can be fully appreciated and everyone stand without excuse before the Lord giving an account for their life. DECLARE TRUTH REGARDLESS OF RESPONSE! <H86>
Exodus 7:2,5 NIV
[2] You are to say everything I command you, and your brother Aaron is to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go out of his country. [5] And the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord when I stretch out my hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out of it.”
Exodus 7:6 NIV
[6] Moses and Aaron did just as the Lord commanded them.
** Hezekiah repented of his pride and the Lord withdrew His wrath from the king and nation
2 Chronicles 32:24-26 NIV
[24] In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. He prayed to the Lord, who answered him and gave him a miraculous sign. [25] But Hezekiah's heart was proud and he did not respond to the kindness shown him; therefore the Lord's wrath was on him and on Judah and Jerusalem. [26] Then Hezekiah repented of the pride of his heart, as did the people of Jerusalem; therefore the Lord's wrath did not come on them during the days of Hezekiah.
** Josiah and his officials were leaders who led the people back to the Lord through personal sacrifice performed at the altar
2 Chronicles 35:7-9 NIV
[7] Josiah provided for all the lay people who were there a total of thirty thousand lambs and goats for the Passover offerings, and also three thousand cattle---all from the king's own possessions. [8] His officials also contributed voluntarily to the people and the priests and Levites. Hilkiah, Zechariah and Jehiel, the officials in charge of God's temple, gave the priests twenty-six hundred Passover offerings and three hundred cattle. [9] Also Konaniah along with Shemaiah and Nethanel, his brothers, and Hashabiah, Jeiel and Jozabad, the leaders of the Levites, provided five thousand Passover offerings and five hundred head of cattle for the Levites.
** There is to be a fear of the Lord to act justly according to His ways
2 Chronicles 19:7 NIV
[7] Now let the fear of the Lord be on you. Judge carefully, for with the Lord our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.”
** If you truly love the Lord Jesus Christ — then you earnestly study and endeavor to please Him by a life of universal obedience. Love is always desirous to please the person beloved; and it will naturally lead to a conduct that is pleasing. This, then, you may be sure of, that if you truly love Jesus — then it is the labor of your life to please Him.
The only way to please Jesus, and the best test of your love to Him — is obedience to His commandments. This is made the decisive mark by Christ Himself: "If anyone loves Me — he will obey My teaching. He who does not love Me — will not obey My teaching." John 14:23, 24
Jesus repeats this theme over and over in different forms: "Whoever has My commands and obeys them — he is the one who loves Me," verse 21. "If you love Me — you will obey what I command," verse 15. "You are My friends — if you do what I command." John 15:14. "This is love for God," says John; that is, it is the surest evidence, and the natural, inseparable effect of our love to God, "that we obey His commands. And His commands are not burdensome." 1 John 5:3; that is, they will not seem grievous to one who obeys them from the principle of sincere love.
Here, then, you who profess to love the Lord Jesus — here is an infallible test for your love! Do you make it the great aim of your life to keep His commandments? Do you honestly endeavor to perform every duty which He has required — and that because He has commanded it? And do you vigorously resist and struggle against every sin, however constitutional, however fashionable, however gainful — because He forbids it? And is the way of obedience pleasant to you? Would you choose this holy way to Heaven, rather than any other — if it were left to your choice? <D43>
1 Corinthians 16:22 NIV
[22] If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Come, Lord!
** 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.
** The Lord did not approve of Amaziah, king of Judah, who depended on the hiring and support of 100,000 fighting men
2 Chronicles 25:6-8 NIV
[6] [Amaziah] also hired a hundred thousand fighting men from Israel for a hundred talents of silver. [7] But a man of God came to him and said, “Your Majesty, these troops from Israel must not march with you, for the Lord is not with Israel---not with any of the people of Ephraim. [8] Even if you go and fight courageously in battle, God will overthrow you before the enemy, for God has the power to help or to overthrow.”
** We think we can ‘hire’ help but no one can help if God is not with us
2 Chronicles 25:6-9 NIV
[6] [Amaziah] also hired a hundred thousand fighting men from Israel for a hundred talents of silver. [7] But a man of God came to him and said, “Your Majesty, these troops from Israel must not march with you, for the Lord is not with Israel---not with any of the people of Ephraim. [8] Even if you go and fight courageously in battle, God will overthrow you before the enemy, for God has the power to help or to overthrow.” [9] Amaziah asked the man of God, “But what about the hundred talents I paid for these Israelite troops?” The man of God replied, “The Lord can give you much more than that.”
** Jehoshaphat correctly warned his appointed judges that they were judging (providing verdict) for the Lord
• Jehoshaphat saw to it that the Word was taught throughout Judah
• He also established official to administer the law; he saw to it the law was lived out in Judah <R1795>
2 Chronicles 19:4-6 NIV
[4] Jehoshaphat lived in Jerusalem, and he went out again among the people from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim and turned them back to the Lord, the God of their ancestors. [5] He appointed judges in the land, in each of the fortified cities of Judah. [6] He told them, “Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for mere mortals but for the Lord, who is with you whenever you give a verdict.
2 Chronicles 19:8-10 NIV
[8] In Jerusalem also, Jehoshaphat appointed some of the Levites, priests and heads of Israelite families to administer the law of the Lord and to settle disputes. And they lived in Jerusalem. [9] He gave them these orders: “You must serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the Lord. [10] In every case that comes before you from your people who live in the cities---whether bloodshed or other concerns of the law, commands, decrees or regulations---you are to warn them not to sin against the Lord; otherwise his wrath will come on you and your people. Do this, and you will not sin.
** Our days are numbered and without hope if we do not align ourselves with Christ
1 Chronicles 29:15 NIV
[15] We are foreigners and strangers in your sight, as were all our ancestors. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope.
** David understood that the Lord looks at the heart, testing for honesty, loyalty and integrity
1 Chronicles 29:17-18 NIV
[17] I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things I have given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. [18] Lord, the God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep these desires and thoughts in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you.
** 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.
** Rehoboam is an example of a young inexperienced leader who rejected the wise words of the elderly in place of advice from his friends, and paid the price for it in the end
• Rehoboam’s arrogance was the immediate cause of Israel’s rebellion
• This serves as a good reminder that use of authority, and the attitude of a person with authority, either wins or loses the allegiance of others
• Being kind is not only good leadership, but is the way Christians are to live <R1795>
2 Chronicles 10:6-11 NIV
[6] Then King Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. “How would you advise me to answer these people?” he asked. [7] They replied, “If you will be kind to these people and please them and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants.” [8] But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him. [9] He asked them, “What is your advice? How should we answer these people who say to me, 'Lighten the yoke your father put on us'?” [10] The young men who had grown up with him replied, “The people have said to you, 'Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but make our yoke lighter.' Now tell them, 'My little finger is thicker than my father's waist. [11] My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.' ”
2 Chronicles 10:13,15,18-19 NIV
[13] The king answered them harshly. Rejecting the advice of the elders, [15] So the king did not listen to the people, for this turn of events was from God, to fulfill the word the Lord had spoken to Jeroboam son of Nebat through Ahijah the Shilonite. [18] King Rehoboam sent out Adoniram, who was in charge of forced labor, but the Israelites stoned him to death. King Rehoboam, however, managed to get into his chariot and escape to Jerusalem. [19] So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.
** 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
• Jethro recognized that Moses needed divine permission to enact his advice <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.”
** The elders from the tribes of Israel came to Hebron with the express purpose of submitting to David's rule
• Three reasons for wanting to submit to the king included:
2 Samuel 5:1-3 NIV
[1] All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “We are your own flesh and blood. [2] In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler. ’ ” [3] When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel.
2 Samuel 5:4-5 NIV
[4] David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. [5] In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years.
** Leaders in Christian circles must be knowledgeable of His Word, tested, and actively living in faith with a clear conscience
• The Christian community in the first century consisted of local elders that guided the church in the wider community; the terms of ‘elder’ and ‘bishop’ were used interchangeably to identify them
• Churches also developed the office of ‘deacon’ whose function was centered on charity and administrative tasks, and were to live exemplary quiet lives
• The most effective evangelism is supported by the evidence of ‘quiet lives’ lived ‘in all godliness and holiness’
• The most powerful aid to the Gospel is a growing hunger for the peace and goodness observed in the lives of ordinary Christians <R1795>
1 Timothy 3:9-10 NIV
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.
1 Timothy 3:13 NIV
Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
** Solomon understood that a temple could not adequately represent God, for He is above all gods and larger than the heavens
• Solomon’s concern for Israel’s spiritual welfare was demonstrated in his building the temple <R1795>
• Yet Solomon wanted to do his best to provide a place where people can sacrifice to God
• To this end, he requested the help of skilled craftsmen and resources from Hiram king of Tyre
• While it’s trued that God deserves our best, it’s important to remember that God Himself is our glory and not the monuments we erect for Him
2 Chronicles 2:5-6 NIV
[5] “The temple I am going to build will be great, because our God is greater than all other gods. [6] But who is able to build a temple for him, since the heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain him? Who then am I to build a temple for him, except as a place to burn sacrifices before him?
2 Chronicles 2:12-13,15-16 NIV
[12] And Hiram added: “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, who made heaven and earth! He has given King David a wise son, endowed with intelligence and discernment, who will build a temple for the Lord and a palace for himself. [13] “I am sending you Huram-Abi, a man of great skill, [15] “Now let my lord send his servants the wheat and barley and the olive oil and wine he promised, [16] and we will cut all the logs from Lebanon that you need and will float them as rafts by sea down to Joppa. You can then take them up to Jerusalem.”
** Prophesying is not necessarily predicting the future or even speaking direct revelation — it is proclaiming truth to people <M130>
• Music is a vehicle for proclaiming praise
• David and leaders chose those most capable of leading people to worship God through music
1 Chronicles 25:1,6-8 NIV
[1] David, together with the commanders of the army, set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman and Jeduthun for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals. Here is the list of the men who performed this service: [6] All these men were under the supervision of their father for the music of the temple of the Lord, with cymbals, lyres and harps, for the ministry at the house of God. Asaph, Jeduthun and Heman were under the supervision of the king. [7] Along with their relatives---all of them trained and skilled in music for the Lord---they numbered 288. [8] Young and old alike, teacher as well as student, cast lots for their duties.
1 Corinthians 14:3 NIV
[3] But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort.
** David gathered the leaders in Israel to assign priests, judges, gatekeepers and musicians
1 Chronicles 23:2-5 NIV
[2] He also gathered together all the leaders of Israel, as well as the priests and Levites. [3] The Levites thirty years old or more were counted, and the total number of men was thirty-eight thousand. [4] David said, “Of these, twenty-four thousand are to be in charge of the work of the temple of the Lord and six thousand are to be officials and judges. [5] Four thousand are to be gatekeepers and four thousand are to praise the Lord with the musical instruments I have provided for that purpose.”
1 Chronicles 23:13 NIV
[13] The sons of Amram: Aaron and Moses. Aaron was set apart, he and his descendants forever, to consecrate the most holy things, to offer sacrifices before the Lord, to minister before him and to pronounce blessings in his name forever.
1 Chronicles 24:3,5 NIV
[3] With the help of Zadok a descendant of Eleazar and Ahimelek a descendant of Ithamar, David separated [priests] into divisions for their appointed order of ministering. [5] They divided them impartially by casting lots, for there were officials of the sanctuary and officials of God among the descendants of both Eleazar and Ithamar.
1 Chronicles 26:12-13,20 NIV
[12] These divisions of the gatekeepers, through their leaders, had duties for ministering in the temple of the Lord, just as their relatives had. [13] Lots were cast for each gate, according to their families, young and old alike. [20] Their fellow Levites were in charge of the treasuries of the house of God and the treasuries for the dedicated things.
1 Chronicles 27:1,25,32 NIV
[1] This is the list of the Israelites---heads of families, commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds, and their officers, who served the king in all that concerned the army divisions that were on duty month by month throughout the year. Each division consisted of 24,000 men. [25] Azmaveth son of Adiel was in charge of the royal storehouses. Jonathan son of Uzziah was in charge of the storehouses in the outlying districts, in the towns, the villages and the watchtowers. [32] Jonathan, David's uncle, was a counselor, a man of insight and a scribe. Jehiel son of Hakmoni took care of the king's sons.
** David told the Israelites that God appointed Solomon as the next king and he would build the temple
• David accepted and acted on God's directive
• All that happened was rooted in God’s sovereign choice
1 Chronicles 28:2-6 NIV
[2] King David rose to his feet and said: “Listen to me, my fellow Israelites, my people. I had it in my heart to build a house as a place of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord, for the footstool of our God, and I made plans to build it. [3] But God said to me, 'You are not to build a house for my Name, because you are a warrior and have shed blood.' [4] “Yet the Lord, the God of Israel, chose me from my whole family to be king over Israel forever. He chose Judah as leader, and from the tribe of Judah he chose my family, and from my father's sons he was pleased to make me king over all Israel. [5] Of all my sons---and the Lord has given me many---he has chosen my son Solomon to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the Lord over Israel. [6] He said to me: 'Solomon your son is the one who will build my house and my courts, for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father.
2 Samuel 12:24-25 NIV
[24] Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and made love to her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The Lord loved him; [25] and because the Lord loved him, he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah.
1 Kings 1:13 NIV
[13] Go in to King David and say to him, 'My lord the king, did you not swear to me your servant: “Surely Solomon your son shall be king after me, and he will sit on my throne”? Why then has Adonijah become king?'
1 Chronicles 28:10-13 NIV
[10] Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house as the sanctuary. Be strong and do the work.” [11] Then David gave his son Solomon the plans for the portico of the temple, its buildings, its storerooms, its upper parts, its inner rooms and the place of atonement. [12] He gave him the plans of all that the Spirit had put in his mind for the courts of the temple of the Lord and all the surrounding rooms, for the treasuries of the temple of God and for the treasuries for the dedicated things. [13] He gave him instructions for the divisions of the priests and Levites, and for all the work of serving in the temple of the Lord, as well as for all the articles to be used in its service.
1 Chronicles 28:21 NIV
[21] The divisions of the priests and Levites are ready for all the work on the temple of God, and every willing person skilled in any craft will help you in all the work. The officials and all the people will obey your every command.”
** David showed great character as a leader when he did wrong in the eyes of the Lord
• David recognized he was the one who ordered the counting of the army and accepted that God should punish him
• He also took responsibility and did not pass the blame to the people of Israel
• He realized his error had to come at a cost to him
1 Chronicles 21:15-17 NIV
[15] And God sent an angel to destroy Jerusalem. But as the angel was doing so, the Lord saw it and relented concerning the disaster and said to the angel who was destroying the people, “Enough! Withdraw your hand.” The angel of the Lord was then standing at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. [16] David looked up and saw the angel of the Lord standing between heaven and earth, with a drawn sword in his hand extended over Jerusalem. Then David and the elders, clothed in sackcloth, fell facedown. [17] David said to God, “Was it not I who ordered the fighting men to be counted? I, the shepherd, have sinned and done wrong. These are but sheep. What have they done? Lord my God, let your hand fall on me and my family, but do not let this plague remain on your people.”
1 Chronicles 21:21-24 NIV
[21] Then David approached, and when Araunah looked and saw him, he left the threshing floor and bowed down before David with his face to the ground. [22] David said to him, “Let me have the site of your threshing floor so I can build an altar to the Lord, that the plague on the people may be stopped. Sell it to me at the full price.” [23] Araunah said to David, “Take it! Let my lord the king do whatever pleases him. Look, I will give the oxen for the burnt offerings, the threshing sledges for the wood, and the wheat for the grain offering. I will give all this.” [24] But King David replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying the full price. I will not take for the Lord what is yours, or sacrifice a burnt offering that costs me nothing.”
** Nehemiah chapter 2 details who worked on the wall surrounding Jerusalem — including numerous sections of the wall between the Sheep Gate, Tower of the One Hundred, Fish Gate, Jeshana Gate, Broad Wall, Tower of the Ovens, Valley Gate, Dung Gate, Fountain Gate, Pool of Shiloam, House of the Heroes, Water Gate, Wall of Ophel, Horse Gate, East Gate, Inspection Gate and back to the Sheep Gate
• Nehemiah demonstrated effective leadership in his plan for rebuilding
• Teams were formed and given specific responsibilities
• The fact that each team is named here shows that Nehemiah was careful to give credit for accomplishments
• Effective leaders can learn from Nehemiah to assign ministry teams specific assignments and give them credit by name for their accomplishments <R1795>
[example]
Nehemiah 3:20-23 NIV
[20] Next to him, Baruch son of Zabbai zealously repaired another section, from the angle to the entrance of the house of Eliashib the high priest. [21] Next to him, Meremoth son of Uriah, the son of Hakkoz, repaired another section, from the entrance of Eliashib's house to the end of it. [22] The repairs next to him were made by the priests from the surrounding region. [23] Beyond them, Benjamin and Hasshub made repairs in front of their house; and next to them, Azariah son of Maaseiah, the son of Ananiah, made repairs beside his house.
** The people showed a healthy fear and respect for God to the point of being in tears when hearing His Word
Nehemiah 8:5-6 NIV
[5] Ezra opened the book. All the people could see him because he was standing above them; and as he opened it, the people all stood up. [6] Ezra praised the Lord, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, “Amen! Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground.
Nehemiah 8:9 NIV
[9] Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.
** Occasionally, special mention is made in 1 Chronicles why God did not follow the expected line of heirs in the genealogy typically due to sin and disobedience, as seen throughout Scripture
For instance: by the time of David’s reign, the high priestly line had been wrongly shifted to the sons of Itgamar; when Abiathar sided with Adonijah rather than Solomon, Zadok became the ruling high priest, restored again through Phinehas <M130>
1 Chronicles 5:1-2 NIV
[1] The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel (he was the firstborn, but when he defiled his father's marriage bed, his rights as firstborn were given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel; so he could not be listed in the genealogical record in accordance with his birthright, [2] and though Judah was the strongest of his brothers and a ruler came from him, the rights of the firstborn belonged to Joseph)---
Genesis 25:29-34 NIV
[29] Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. [30] He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished!” (That is why he was also called Edom. ) [31] Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright. ” [32] “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?” [33] But Jacob said, “Swear to me first.” So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. [34] Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left. So Esau despised his birthright.
1 Kings 2:26-27 NIV
[26] To Abiathar the priest the king said, “Go back to your fields in Anathoth. You deserve to die, but I will not put you to death now, because you carried the ark of the Sovereign Lord before my father David and shared all my father's hardships.” [27] So Solomon removed Abiathar from the priesthood of the Lord, fulfilling the word the Lord had spoken at Shiloh about the house of Eli.
Numbers 25:10-13 NIV
[10] The Lord said to Moses, [11] “Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, the priest, has turned my anger away from the Israelites. Since he was as zealous for my honor among them as I am, I did not put an end to them in my zeal. [12] Therefore tell him I am making my covenant of peace with him. [13] He and his descendants will have a covenant of a lasting priesthood, because he was zealous for the honor of his God and made atonement for the Israelites.”
1 Chronicles 6:50-53 NIV
[50] These were the descendants of Aaron: Eleazar his son, Phinehas his son, Abishua his son, [51] Bukki his son, Uzzi his son, Zerahiah his son, [52] Meraioth his son, Amariah his son, Ahitub his son, [53] Zadok his son and Ahimaaz his son.
** The habit of laying up a text of Scripture in the morning, to be meditated upon while engaged in the business of this world through the day, is both profitable and delightful. It is as a refreshing draught to a weary traveler!
Nothing is more helpful and practical in Christian living, than the habit of getting a verse or phrase of Scripture into the mind and heart in the morning. Its influence stays through the day, weaving itself into all the day's thoughts and words and experiences.
Every verse in the Bible is meant to help us to live, and a good devotional book opens up the precious teachings which are folded up in its words.
A devotional book which takes a Scripture text, and so opens it for us in the morning, that all day long it helps us to live, becoming a true lamp to our feet, and a staff to lean upon when the way is rough--is the very best devotional help we can possibly have. What we need in a devotional book which will bless our lives, is the application of the great teachings of Scripture to common, daily, practical life. <M136>
Psalm 119:15 NIV
[15] I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways.
** 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.
** 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 organized the settlement of one tenth of the population in Jerusalem
• Most of those who had resettled Judah lived in smaller towns where there were fields to cultivate
• Jerusalem had been largely unpopulated
• Nehemiah, after carefully consulting the genealogical records to ensure each family’s claim, settled 1/10th of the people in the city <R1795>
• The people commended all who volunteered to live in Jerusalem
Nehemiah 7:73 NIV
[73] The priests, the Levites, the gatekeepers, the musicians and the temple servants, along with certain of the people and the rest of the Israelites, settled in their own towns. When the seventh month came and the Israelites had settled in their towns,
Nehemiah 11:1-2 NIV
[1] Now the leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem. The rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten of them to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the remaining nine were to stay in their own towns. [2] The people commended all who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.
** 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.”
** The Bible should be the test of all preaching. That man who desires to make himself the umpire and final standard of appeal to the congregation, involves himself in a fearful responsibility and virtually claims for himself infallibility. Yet some ministers appear offended if their authority is questioned or if their preaching is tested by the Word of God.
Paul did not do so. Though inspired, he commended the course of those, who, instead of taking his word for it, examined the Scriptures for themselves to see whether those things which he taught them were so. To adopt a contrary course and blindly follow a minister or priest, is downright Romanism! And, if pursued universally, this would...
• arrest the progress of the Gospel,
• and clog the wheels of truth,
• and stamp error with immutability.
No, my brethren, your minister is not to be the umpire or standard. There is but one who could say, "Follow Me!" and that was Christ! We point you to Him. We direct you to His Word as the standard of your beliefs and to His example as the pattern of your lives. <A16>
Isaiah 8:20 NIV
[20] Consult God's instruction and the testimony of warning. If anyone does not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.
Acts 17:11 NIV
[11] Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
** Standing in the gap in football or a military battle shows alignment with the will of the coach, or commander. Standing in the gap is a form of intercession. Whether it be by prayer or by action or, preferably, both, when we stand in the gap for the land before the Lord, it shows the Lord that we care about the things that he cares about. When our will and God's will align, God is then moved of the importance that we are interceding and working toward His will being accomplished. When our intercession and God's will align, a spiritual force is often released. <W212>
Isaiah 63:5 NIV
[5] I looked, but there was no one to help, I was appalled that no one gave support; so my own arm achieved salvation for me, and my own wrath sustained me.
Ezekiel 22:29-31 NIV
[29] The people of the land practice extortion and commit robbery; they oppress the poor and needy and mistreat the foreigner, denying them justice. [30] “I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one. [31] So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger, bringing down on their own heads all they have done, declares the Sovereign Lord. ”
** A great leader will recognize the efforts of those he leads and not put himself first
2 Samuel 23:15-17 NIV
[15] David longed for water and said, “Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!” [16] So the three mighty warriors broke through the Philistine lines, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem and carried it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out before the Lord. [17] “Far be it from me, Lord, to do this!” he said. “Is it not the blood of men who went at the risk of their lives?” And David would not drink it. Such were the exploits of the three mighty warriors.
** God rewards those who are obedient to His commands and puts Him above their own perceived needs
1 Kings 17:10-16 NIV
[10] So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?” [11] As she was going to get it, he called, “And bring me, please, a piece of bread.” [12] “As surely as the Lord your God lives,” she replied, “I don't have any bread---only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it---and die.” [13] Elijah said to her, “Don't be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. [14] For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land.' ” [15] She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. [16] For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.
** 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.”
** A man must address the issue of who is truly the Lord of his life, because one day he will fall through his lattice and need someone to help and somewhere to turn. The one he trusts at such a moment will either support him or collapse him like a rotten lattice. <unknown>
We cannot count on our fellow man for support because we are human — we are limited in our ability, knowledge, foresight, attention-span, etc — so we must turn to God! When we do believe in Him, repent of our sin, ask His forgiveness and commit our lives to Him, we KNOW we have the Ultimate Support who is with us every step of the way! A support we can truly count on without fail. (Psa 91, 116, 139)
** God designated leaders and held them accountable for how they led others; no one escaped the consequences of sin
1 Kings 16:2-4 NIV
[2] “I lifted you up from the dust and appointed you ruler over my people Israel, but you followed the ways of Jeroboam and caused my people Israel to sin and to arouse my anger by their sins. [3] So I am about to wipe out Baasha and his house, and I will make your house like that of Jeroboam son of Nebat. [4] Dogs will eat those belonging to Baasha who die in the city, and birds will feed on those who die in the country.”
1 Kings 16:7 NIV
[7] Moreover, the word of the Lord came through the prophet Jehu son of Hanani to Baasha and his house, because of all the evil he had done in the eyes of the Lord, arousing his anger by the things he did, becoming like the house of Jeroboam---and also because he destroyed it.
** God provides for those who desire to commit to God and witness that He is the only God
1 Kings 8:59-61 NIV
[59] And may these words of mine, which I have prayed before the Lord, be near to the Lord our God day and night, that he may uphold the cause of his servant and the cause of his people Israel according to each day's need, [60] so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God and that there is no other. [61] And may your hearts be fully committed to the Lord our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time.”
** The choice is done. Moses is determined. He has counted the cost:
• instead of honor--shame;
• instead of praise--blame;
• instead of respect--contempt;
• instead of plenty--poverty;
• instead of a princely portion--a slave's lot.
Was this wise? Was Moses a wise man--or a fool? What do you think of Moses--was he right, or wrong? But if Moses was right, as I suppose you will admit, allow me to ask: Have you acted rightly? Have you made the same choice?
Have you looked at the world at its best--and at true religion at its worst; and have you seriously, deliberately, and prayerfully decided to renounce the world, and embrace the despised religion of Christ, with all the scorn, contempt, and sufferings to which it may expose you?
Moses made his choice between the children of God and their sufferings--and the Egyptians and their pleasures. And you must make your choice between Christ or the world, holiness or sin, the narrow path to Heaven or the broad road to Hell.
"Choose this day whom you will serve!"
A master you must have, and it must be either Satan or Christ. Serve you must, and your service must be either sin or righteousness. Look, then at the world at its honors, wealth, and pleasures;
look also at the church at its poverty, contempt, and sufferings.
Look at Hell with its bitter reflections, deep sorrows, and indescribable torments;
look also at Heaven with its sweet thoughts, pure enjoyments, and endless felicity.
Now make your choice! Do you choose the world and its pleasures now--along with Hell and its horrors forever? Do you chose rather to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time, than to serve and suffer with the people of God--though you know your end will be as bitter as wormwood, and as dreadful as the just wrath of a holy and unchangeable God could make it? <S183>
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.
** Paul knew how to manage in every state; he learned to be content whatever his circumstances. If he was in prosperity, he knew how to be thankful.
If he was in adversity, he knew how to be patient. He was neither lifted up with prosperity nor cast down with adversity.
A Christian should be content in any and every situation. Many are contented in some conditions — but not in every condition. They can be content in a wealthy state. When they have the streams of milk and honey — now they are content. But if the wind turns and is against them — now they are discontented. While they have a silver crutch to lean upon — they are contented; but if God breaks this crutch — now they are discontented.
Many would be content with their affliction if God would allow them to pick and choose. They could better endure sickness than poverty; or bear loss of estate than loss of children. If they might have a cross of their own choosing, they would be content.
But a contented Christian does not desire to choose his cross but leaves God to choose for him. He is content both for the kind of the afflictions, and the duration of the afflictions, which God gives him. A contented man says, "Let God apply whatever medicine He pleases, and let it lie on as long as He desires. I know when it has done its cure, and eaten the venom of sin out of my heart that God will take it away."
A contented Christian, being sweetly captivated under the authority of the Word, desires to be wholly at God's disposal, and cheerfully lives in whatever circumstances that God has placed him in. He does not only submit to God's dealings, but rejoices in them! <W210>
2 Corinthians 12:10 NIV
[10] That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
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.
** David reminds Solomon of the sins/actions of those who opposed David and encourages retribution
1 Kings 2:5,8-9 NIV
[5] “Now you yourself know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me---what he did to the two commanders of Israel’s armies, Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether. He killed them, shedding their blood in peacetime as if in battle, and with that blood he stained the belt around his waist and the sandals on his feet. [8] “And remember, you have with you Shimei son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim, who called down bitter curses on me the day I went to Mahanaim. When he came down to meet me at the Jordan, I swore to him by the Lord: ‘I will not put you to death by the sword.’ [9] But now, do not consider him innocent. You are a man of wisdom; you will know what to do to him. Bring his gray head down to the grave in blood.”
** Solomon’s love for God was demonstrated by his obedience to the Lord and by Solomon’s request that God give him ‘a discerning heart’
• Solomon was only about 20 years old when he became king and asked for a ‘discerning heart’ and wisdom to govern the Israelites
• This pleased the Lord and Solomon received both wisdom and wealth as a result
• The servant’s heart that Solomon displayed pleased God, who throughout Scripture gives servanthood the highest priority <R1795>
1 Kings 3:5,7-9 NIV
[5] At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” [7] “Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. [8] Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. [9] So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?”
1 Kings 3:10-13 NIV
[10] The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. [11] So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, [12] I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. [13] Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for---both wealth and honor---so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings.
1 Kings 4:29-30 NIV
[29] God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. [30] Solomon's wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the people of the East, and greater than all the wisdom of Egypt.
1 Chronicles 22:5 NIV
[5] David said, “My son Solomon is young and inexperienced, and the house to be built for the Lord should be of great magnificence and fame and splendor in the sight of all the nations. Therefore I will make preparations for it.” So David made extensive preparations before his death.
1 Chronicles 29:1 NIV
[1] Then King David said to the whole assembly: “My son Solomon, the one whom God has chosen, is young and inexperienced. The task is great, because this palatial structure is not for man but for the Lord God.
Matthew 20:26-28 NIV
[26] Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, [27] and whoever wants to be first must be your slave--- [28] just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
** Two women ask Solomon to settle a matter of who belongs to the son who is alive and the son who is dead; Solomon wisely knows that the real mother will want to protect her son and the other is out for revenge
1 Kings 3:16-20 NIV
[16] Now two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him. [17] One of them said, “Pardon me, my lord. This woman and I live in the same house, and I had a baby while she was there with me. [18] The third day after my child was born, this woman also had a baby. We were alone; there was no one in the house but the two of us. [19] “During the night this woman’s son died because she lay on him. [20] So she got up in the middle of the night and took my son from my side while I your servant was asleep. She put him by her breast and put her dead son by my breast.
1 Kings 3:24-27 NIV
[24] Then the king said, “Bring me a sword.” So they brought a sword for the king. [25] He then gave an order: “Cut the living child in two and give half to one and half to the other.” [26] The woman whose son was alive was deeply moved out of love for her son and said to the king, “Please, my lord, give her the living baby! Don’t kill him!” But the other said, “Neither I nor you shall have him. Cut him in two!” [27] Then the king gave his ruling: “Give the living baby to the first woman. Do not kill him; she is his mother.”
** The Israelites recognized that God gifted Solomon with wisdom to administer justice
1 Kings 3:28 NIV
[28] When all Israel heard the verdict the king had given, they held the king in awe, because they saw that he had wisdom from God to administer justice.
** Solomon showed his love for the Lord by following His commands
1 Kings 3:3 NIV
[3] Solomon showed his love for the Lord by walking according to the instructions given him by his father David, except that he offered sacrifices and burned incense on the high places.
** David did not want to sacrifice anything to the Lord that did not cost him; he pays Araunah for his threshing floor
2 Samuel 24:21-24 NIV
[21] Araunah said, “Why has my lord the king come to his servant?” “To buy your threshing floor,” David answered, “so I can build an altar to the Lord, that the plague on the people may be stopped.” [22] Araunah said to David, “Let my lord the king take whatever he wishes and offer it up. Here are oxen for the burnt offering, and here are threshing sledges and ox yokes for the wood. [23] Your Majesty, Araunah gives all this to the king.” Araunah also said to him, “May the Lord your God accept you.” [24] But the king replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen and paid fifty shekels of silver for them.
** David appointed Amasa as commander over his army, hoping to secure the allegiance of those who followed Amasa, when he led Absalom's forces, especially those of Judah; this appointment did persuade the tribe of Judah to support David's return to kingship <M130>
2 Samuel 19:13-14 NIV
[13] And say to Amasa, ‘Are you not my own flesh and blood? May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if you are not the commander of my army for life in place of Joab. ’ ” [14] He won over the hearts of the men of Judah so that they were all of one mind. They sent word to the king, “Return, you and all your men.”
** David built an altar and prayed to God who, in turn, limited the amount of punishment by telling the Angel of the Lord to withdraw from punishing Jerusalem
2 Samuel 24:16 NIV
[16] When the angel stretched out his hand to destroy Jerusalem, the Lord relented concerning the disaster and said to the angel who was afflicting the people, “Enough! Withdraw your hand.” The angel of the Lord was then at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.
2 Samuel 24:25 NIV
[25] David built an altar to the Lord there and sacrificed burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. Then the Lord answered his prayer in behalf of the land, and the plague on Israel was stopped.
** David did what was right and just (administered judgment and justice) for all his people, and the Lord gave David victory wherever he went
2 Samuel 8:14b-15 NIV
[14] The Lord gave David victory wherever he went. [15] David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people.
** When David arrived at the front lines he heard threats from Goliath and couldn't believe the Philistines would defy God in such a way; this reveals David's complete respect and trust in God
1 Samuel 17:22-23,26 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. [26] David asked the men standing near him, “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?”
** It didn't matter how well-prepared and intimidating the enemy appeared, David knew God was on his side
• The enemy would wither at the mention of our Lord God and be delivered into the hands of David <M130>
• God can still do more with one little person willing to try than with a whole army of hesitant soldiers <R1795>
1 Samuel 17:5-7 NIV
[5] He had a bronze helmet on his head and wore a coat of scale armor of bronze weighing five thousand shekels ; [6] on his legs he wore bronze greaves, and a bronze javelin was slung on his back. [7] His spear shaft was like a weaver’s rod, and its iron point weighed six hundred shekels. His shield bearer went ahead of him.
1 Samuel 17:32 NIV
[32] David said to Saul, “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.”
1 Samuel 17:41,45-47 NIV
[41] Meanwhile, the Philistine, with his shield bearer in front of him, kept coming closer to David. [45] David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. [46] This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. [47] All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”
1 Samuel 17:48-50 NIV
[48] As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. [49] Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. [50] So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.
** David ignores the rebuke given by his elder brother and continues to inquire about the situation before eventually confronting Goliath
1 Samuel 17:28-30 NIV
[28] When Eliab, David’s oldest brother, heard him speaking with the men, he burned with anger at him and asked, “Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle.” [29] “Now what have I done?” said David. “Can’t I even speak?” [30] He then turned away to someone else and brought up the same matter, and the men answered him as before.
1 Samuel 17:32-33,37 NIV
[32] David said to Saul, “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.” [33] Saul replied, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a young man, and he has been a warrior from his youth.” [37] The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you.”
** Moses appeals to God’s heart of mercy, to release His servants from His wrath so future generations will know His splendor and their work could be for His purposes
Psalm 90:13-14,16-17 NIV
[13] Relent, Lord! How long will it be? Have compassion on your servants. [14] Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. [16] May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children. [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.
** Infinite wisdom, as well as infinite love, guides the Lord Jesus in all His doings. Thus it is He sees it best for His own glory and our good, that His doings should at times be contrary to our own desires for ourselves. All things, the bitter and the sweet, are from the hands of Him who makes all work together for our good. <M141>
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.
** Samuel anointed Saul with oil; he told Saul exactly in detail what would happen next and that Saul would become a different person due to the power of the Spirit of God indwelling in him
1 Samuel 10:1-6 NIV
[1] Then Samuel took a flask of olive oil and poured it on Saul’s head and kissed him, saying, “Has not the Lord anointed you ruler over his inheritance? [2] When you leave me today, you will meet two men near Rachel’s tomb, at Zelzah on the border of Benjamin. They will say to you, ‘The donkeys you set out to look for have been found. And now your father has stopped thinking about them and is worried about you. He is asking, “What shall I do about my son?” ’ [3] “Then you will go on from there until you reach the great tree of Tabor. Three men going up to worship God at Bethel will meet you there. One will be carrying three young goats, another three loaves of bread, and another a skin of wine. [4] They will greet you and offer you two loaves of bread, which you will accept from them. [5] “After that you will go to Gibeah of God, where there is a Philistine outpost. As you approach the town, you will meet a procession of prophets coming down from the high place with lyres, timbrels, pipes and harps being played before them, and they will be prophesying. [6] The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person.
1 Samuel 10:9 NIV
[9] As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart, and all these signs were fulfilled that day.
** Before Samuel steps down, he wants to make sure he has not done anything corrupt against the Israelites; the people absolve him of any wrongdoing
1 Samuel 12:3 NIV
[3] Here I stand. Testify against me in the presence of the Lord and his anointed. Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated? Whom have I oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe to make me shut my eyes? If I have done any of these things, I will make it right.”
1 Samuel 12:4 NIV
[4] “You have not cheated or oppressed us,” they replied. “You have not taken anything from anyone’s hand.”
** Once the Spirit of God claimed Saul, he was to trust the leading (direction) of the Spirit, including the prophesying of the Word of the Lord with the other prophets; Saul would be equipped for deeds of valor like other prophets <M130>
1 Samuel 10:6-7 NIV
[6] The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person. [7] Once these signs are fulfilled, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God is with you.
1 Samuel 10:10 NIV
[10] When he and his servant arrived at Gibeah, a procession of prophets met him; the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he joined in their prophesying.
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.
Judges 11:29 NIV
[29] Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Jephthah. He crossed Gilead and Manasseh, passed through Mizpah of Gilead, and from there he advanced against the Ammonites.
** Noticeable changes can be seen in the person who has the Spirit of the Lord indwelling in them
1 Samuel 10:11 NIV
[11] When all those who had formerly known him saw him prophesying with the prophets, they asked each other, “What is this that has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?”
** Saul was handsome and Samuel assumed that was a criteria of God's selection for king but the Lord looks at the heart that embodies emotions, will, intellect, and desires; the life of a man reflects what is in his heart <M130>
1 Samuel 16:7 NIV
[7] But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Matthew 12:34-35 NIV
[34] 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.
** David's men most likely thought it providential that Saul was in the same cave so David could kill him, but David knew that God had not directed him to do so, so David spared Saul's life <M130>
1 Samuel 24:2-4 NIV
[2] So Saul took three thousand able young men from all Israel and set out to look for David and his men near the Crags of the Wild Goats. [3] He came to the sheep pens along the way; a cave was there, and Saul went in to relieve himself. David and his men were far back in the cave. [4] The men said, “This is the day the Lord spoke of when he said to you, ‘I will give your enemy into your hands for you to deal with as you wish.’ ” Then David crept up unnoticed and cut off a corner of Saul’s robe.
** Regardless if David was threatened by Saul, he knew you do not kill the Lord's anointed
• David’s reaction showed proper respect for both God and Saul
• It also clearly indicated that despite David’s persecution by Saul, David wished the monarch no personal harm <R1795>
2 Samuel 1:5-16 NIV
[5] Then David said to the young man who brought him the report, “How do you know that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead?” [6] “I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, ” the young man said, “and there was Saul, leaning on his spear, with the chariots and their drivers in hot pursuit. [7] When he turned around and saw me, he called out to me, and I said, ‘What can I do?’ [8] “He asked me, ‘Who are you?’ “ ‘An Amalekite, ’ I answered. [9] “Then he said to me, ‘Stand here by me and kill me! I’m in the throes of death, but I’m still alive.’ [10] “So I stood beside him and killed him, because I knew that after he had fallen he could not survive. And I took the crown that was on his head and the band on his arm and have brought them here to my lord.” [11] Then David and all the men with him took hold of their clothes and tore them. [12] They mourned and wept and fasted till evening for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the army of the Lord and for the nation of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword. [13] David said to the young man who brought him the report, “Where are you from?” “I am the son of a foreigner, an Amalekite, ” he answered. [14] David asked him, “Why weren’t you afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord’s anointed? ” [15] Then David called one of his men and said, “Go, strike him down!” So he struck him down, and he died. [16] For David had said to him, “Your blood be on your own head. Your own mouth testified against you when you said, ‘I killed the Lord’s anointed.’ ”
** Character is what we are in the dark. <R174>
** Those who love God are to hate evil; God rewards those who align with Him!
Psalm 97:10-11 NIV
[10] Let those who love the Lord hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked. [11] Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart.
** The Israelites went to Rehoboam to ask for relief from the hardship put on them by Solomon, but Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders to become a servant-leader
• In Solomon’s later years heavy taxes and an increased corvee on labor caused resentment from the people
• The north wanted to make tax reduction a condition of recognizing Rehoboam’s royal authority
• Instead, Rehoboam rejected this conciliation and arrogantly demanded submission
• The people eventually turned on Rehoboam and he lost their support <R1795>
1 Kings 12:3-5 NIV
[3] So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel went to Rehoboam and said to him: [4] “Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but now lighten the harsh labor and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you.” [5] Rehoboam answered, “Go away for three days and then come back to me.” So the people went away.
1 Kings 12:6-8 NIV
[6] Then King Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. “How would you advise me to answer these people?” he asked. [7] They replied, “If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants.” [8] But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him.
** Instead of listening to advice from his elders, young King Rehoboam took the advice from his friends and the Israelites rejected him, preferring Jeroboam instead
1 Kings 12:13-14 NIV
[13] The king answered the people harshly. Rejecting the advice given him by the elders, [14] he followed the advice of the young men and said, “My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.”
1 Kings 12:18-20 NIV
[18] King Rehoboam sent out Adoniram, who was in charge of forced labor, but all Israel stoned him to death. King Rehoboam, however, managed to get into his chariot and escape to Jerusalem. [19] So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day. [20] When all the Israelites heard that Jeroboam had returned, they sent and called him to the assembly and made him king over all Israel. Only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the house of David.
** In 2 Timothy we know that He who has called you is holy--so must you be holy. If you are living in sin--you are not called by God. But if you are truly Christ's, you can say, "Nothing pains me so much as my sin! I desire to be rid of it! Lord, help me to be holy." Is this the panting of your heart? Is this the tenor of your life towards obeying His divine will?
In Philippians 3:14, we are told of "the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Is your calling a high calling? Has it ennobled your heart, and set it upon heavenly things? Has it elevated your hopes, your tastes, your desires? Has it upraised the constant tenor of your life, so that you spend it for His glory?
Another test we find in Hebrews 3:1, "Partakers of the heavenly calling." If man alone calls you, then you are uncalled by God. A heavenly calling is both a calling from heaven--as well as to heaven. Unless you are a stranger here on earth, and are purposely journeying towards your heavenly home--then you have not been called with a heavenly calling. For those who have been called by God declare that they are looking for a city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God, and that they themselves are strangers and pilgrims upon the earth.
Is your calling thus holy, high, heavenly? Then, beloved, you have been called by God, for such is the calling with which God always calls His redeemed people. <S185>
2 Timothy 1:9 NIV
[9] He has saved us and called us to a holy life---not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,
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.
Hebrews 3:1 NIV
[1] Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest.
** One precious quality begets another, such as love and faithfulness; these four spiritual qualities characterize Christ and His future kingdom
• We can understand ‘forgiveness’ by seeing it as a place where God’s love, faithfulness, righteousness and peace all meet
• Because God loves us, He forgives
• Because God is faithful to His covenant promises, He forgives
• Because God is righteous, He pays the price in Christ that forgiveness requires
• When these three qualities unite in forgiveness, man is restored to that state of peace (well-being) which Adam and Eve first knew <R1795>
Psalm 85:10-11 NIV
[10] Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. [11] Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.
Psalm 85:10-11 NKJV
[10] Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed. [11] Truth shall spring out of the earth, And righteousness shall look down from heaven.
** Our response is to love the Lord and follow Him when we recognize His gracious gifts to us
Psalm 86:12-13 NIV
[12] I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. [13] For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths, from the realm of the dead.
** Sometimes God leads through chosen leaders, as He did with His children in the desert and will again in future generations
Psalm 77:19-20 NIV
[19] Your path led through the sea, your way through the mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen. [20] You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.
Psalm 78:70-72 NIV
[70] He chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens; [71] from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Jacob, of Israel his inheritance. [72] And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.
** 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.”
** God occasionally used prophets to communicate His message, including this time when the prophet brought to the Israelites a divine curse because of their infidelity <M130>
Judges 6:7-8,10 NIV
[7] When the Israelites cried out to the Lord because of Midian, [8] he sent them a prophet, who said, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I brought you up out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. [10] I said to you, ‘I am the Lord your God; do not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you live.’ But you have not listened to me.”
** David prays that the land and God’s kingdom will flourish and be restored because they align themselves with our righteous God
Psalm 72:3-4,6-7 NIV
[3] May the mountains bring prosperity to the people, the hills the fruit of righteousness. [4] May he defend the afflicted among the people and save the children of the needy; may he crush the oppressor. [6] May he be like rain falling on a mown field, like showers watering the earth. [7] In his days may the righteous flourish and prosperity abound till the moon is no more.
Psalm 72:12-14,16 NIV
[12] For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. [13] He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. [14] He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight. [16] May grain abound throughout the land; on the tops of the hills may it sway. May the crops flourish like Lebanon and thrive like the grass of the field.
** Christ is never fully valued, until sin is clearly seen. We must know the depth and malignity of our disease, in order to appreciate the great Physician. <R170>
** The Israelites recognize their disobedience and offer sacrifices to God
Judges 2:1-5 NIV
[1] The angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bokim and said, “I brought you up out of Egypt and led you into the land I swore to give to your ancestors. I said, ‘I will never break my covenant with you, [2] and you shall not make a covenant with the people of this land, but you shall break down their altars. ’ Yet you have disobeyed me. Why have you done this? [3] And I have also said, ‘I will not drive them out before you; they will become traps for you, and their gods will become snares to you.’ ” [4] When the angel of the Lord had spoken these things to all the Israelites, the people wept aloud, [5] and they called that place Bokim. There they offered sacrifices to the Lord.
** A sermon that will make the devils in Hell laugh, and the angels of God weep! <S185>
"For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified." 1 Corinthians 2:2
The best sermons are the sermons which are most full of Christ.
A sermon without Christ it is a horrible thing! It is . . .
an empty well;
a cloud without rain;
a tree twice dead, plucked by the roots.
It is abominable to give men stones for bread, and scorpions for eggs--and yet they do so who preach not Jesus.
** David was tempted to envy the wicked until he remembered who they were
Psalm 73:2-5 NIV
[2] But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. [3] For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. [4] They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. [5] They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills.
Psalm 73:6-9 NIV
[6] Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. [7] From their callous hearts comes iniquity ; their evil imaginations have no limits. [8] They scoff, and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. [9] Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth.
** What does the Lord desire of us? That we fear Him, obey Him, love Him, and serve Him with all our heart and soul. Our God, who does not change, desires of us today the same as He desired of the early Israelite generation.
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 NIV
[12] And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, [13] and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?
Deuteronomy 10:20-21 NIV
[20] Fear the Lord your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. [21] He is the one you praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes.
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.’
Deuteronomy 11:1 NIV
[1] Love the Lord your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws and his commands always.
** 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.
** Joshua encourages the Reubenites to serve their Lord with all their heart and soul, echoed by Jesus showing consistency of thought and command between the Old Testament and New Testament
Joshua 22:5 NIV
[5] But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you: to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to keep his commands, to hold fast to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. ”
Matthew 22:37-38 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.
** The secret things of God are not to be scrutinized; those things which He has revealed are to be appreciated and not overlooked
Deuteronomy 29:29 NIV
[29] The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.
** Acting in justice was not based on feelings or preferences
Deuteronomy 21:15-16 NIV
[15] If a man has two wives, and he loves one but not the other, and both bear him sons but the firstborn is the son of the wife he does not love, [16] when he wills his property to his sons, he must not give the rights of the firstborn to the son of the wife he loves in preference to his actual firstborn, the son of the wife he does not love.
** Jephthah made a vow to the Lord and it turned out he was to sacrifice his one and only daughter
Judges 11:30-31 NIV
[30] And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord: “If you give the Ammonites into my hands, [31] whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering. ”
Judges 11:32,34-35 NIV
[32] Then Jephthah went over to fight the Ammonites, and the Lord gave them into his hands. [34] When Jephthah returned to his home in Mizpah, who should come out to meet him but his daughter, dancing to the sound of timbrels! She was an only child. Except for her he had neither son nor daughter. [35] When he saw her, he tore his clothes and cried, “Oh no, my daughter! You have brought me down and I am devastated. I have made a vow to the Lord that I cannot break. ”
** As Christians we are to adhere to the governing bodies around us that have been installed by God as a matter of conscience, unless their governing directly goes against God’s commands
• Scripture upholds the view that Christians are allowed to act in civil disobedience when governments command Christians to act in a manner contrary to Scripture
• An example is in Joshua 2 when Rahab hid Israelite spies despite the king’s command
Romans 13:1 NIV
[1] Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
Romans 13:5 NIV
[5] Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
Joshua 2:3-4 NIV
[3] So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: “Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land.” [4] But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. She said, “Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from.
** The Lord prepares each situation, such as setting the hearts of people, to fulfill His will
Deuteronomy 2:30-33 NIV
[30] But Sihon king of Heshbon refused to let us pass through. For the Lord your God had made his spirit stubborn and his heart obstinate in order to give him into your hands, as he has now done. [31] The Lord said to me, “See, I have begun to deliver Sihon and his country over to you. Now begin to conquer and possess his land.” [32] When Sihon and all his army came out to meet us in battle at Jahaz, [33] the Lord our God delivered him over to us and we struck him down, together with his sons and his whole army.
Deuteronomy 2:36 NIV
[36] From Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Gorge, and from the town in the gorge, even as far as Gilead, not one town was too strong for us. The Lord our God gave us all of them.
** God declared the secured city of Jericho 'delivered' into the hands of the Israelites before it actually happened; God gave instructions how Joshua was to conquer the city
Joshua 6:2-5 NIV
[2] Then the Lord said to Joshua, “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. [3] March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. [4] Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. [5] When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up, everyone straight in.”
Joshua 6:15-16 NIV
[15] On the seventh day, they got up at daybreak and marched around the city seven times in the same manner, except that on that day they circled the city seven times. [16] The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the army, “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city!
Joshua 6:20-21 NIV
[20] When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city. [21] They devoted the city to the Lord and destroyed with the sword every living thing in it---men and women, young and old, cattle, sheep and donkeys.
** The Israelite army must have wondered what was going on when told to march around the city for 7 days and then shout, but they obeyed God and conquered!
Joshua 6:6-7 NIV
[6] So Joshua son of Nun called the priests and said to them, “Take up the ark of the covenant of the Lord and have seven priests carry trumpets in front of it.” [7] And he ordered the army, “Advance ! March around the city, with an armed guard going ahead of the ark of the Lord.”
Joshua 6:9-11 NIV
[9] The armed guard marched ahead of the priests who blew the trumpets, and the rear guard followed the ark. All this time the trumpets were sounding. [10] But Joshua had commanded the army, “Do not give a war cry, do not raise your voices, do not say a word until the day I tell you to shout. Then shout! ” [11] So he had the ark of the Lord carried around the city, circling it once. Then the army returned to camp and spent the night there.
** Moses offers God's words of comfort to be strong and courageous because God promises to go before them and never leave or forsake them
Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV
[6] Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:7-8 NIV
[7] Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. [8] The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:23 NIV
[23] The Lord gave this command to Joshua son of Nun: “Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I promised them on oath, and I myself will be with you.”
** Leaders inquire of the Lord, as Moses did when God affirmed the people's desire to send spies into the Promised Land with the intent to occupy
Numbers 13:1-3 NIV
[1] The Lord said to Moses, [2] “Send some men to explore the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites. From each ancestral tribe send one of its leaders.” [3] So at the Lord’s command Moses sent them out from the Desert of Paran. All of them were leaders of the Israelites.
Deuteronomy 1:22-23 NIV
[22] Then all of you came to me and said, “Let us send men ahead to spy out the land for us and bring back a report about the route we are to take and the towns we will come to.” [23] The idea seemed good to me; so I selected twelve of you, one man from each tribe.
** The Israelites were commanded to build an altar marker to remember God's commands through His Law
Deuteronomy 27:4-5 NIV
[4] And when you have crossed the Jordan, set up these stones on Mount Ebal, as I command you today, and coat them with plaster. [5] Build there an altar to the Lord your God, an altar of stones. Do not use any iron tool on them.
Deuteronomy 27:3 NIV
[3] Write on them all the words of this law when you have crossed over to enter the land the Lord your God is giving you, a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, promised you.
** The offerings of the Israelites on the altar were to be a time of thanksgiving and rejoicing
Deuteronomy 27:7 NIV
[7] Sacrifice fellowship offerings there, eating them and rejoicing in the presence of the Lord your God.
** 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.
** Israelites were to offer a peaceful option before laying siege on a city in battle
Deuteronomy 20:10-12 NIV
[10] When you march up to attack a city, make its people an offer of peace. [11] If they accept and open their gates, all the people in it shall be subject to forced labor and shall work for you. [12] If they refuse to make peace and they engage you in battle, lay siege to that city.
** Joshua stood up with Moses and Aaron to speak to the entire Israelite assembly, encouraging them that God can overcome any obstacle; the people responded by wanted to stone them
Numbers 14:5-9 NIV
[5] Then Moses and Aaron fell facedown in front of the whole Israelite assembly gathered there. [6] Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who had explored the land, tore their clothes [7] and said to the entire Israelite assembly, “The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. [8] If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. [9] Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.”
Numbers 14:10 NIV
[10] But the whole assembly talked about stoning them. Then the glory of the Lord appeared at the tent of meeting to all the Israelites.
** Moses called the Israelites to cut away the sin in their hearts as circumcision cuts away skin; this would leave them with a clean relationship with God <M130>
Deuteronomy 10:16 NIV
[16] Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer.
Deuteronomy 30:6 NIV
[6] The Lord your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live.
Leviticus 26:40-42 NIV
[40] “ ‘But if they will confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors---their unfaithfulness and their hostility toward me, [41] which made me hostile toward them so that I sent them into the land of their enemies---then when their uncircumcised hearts are humbled and they pay for their sin, [42] I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land.
Romans 2:28-29 NIV
[28] A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. [29] No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God.
** The Lord wanted to strike down His people for their unbelief; Moses speaks for the unbelievers and God, being slow to anger, agrees not to destroy them
Numbers 14:13-16 NIV
[13] Moses said to the Lord, “Then the Egyptians will hear about it! By your power you brought these people up from among them. [14] And they will tell the inhabitants of this land about it. They have already heard that you, Lord, are with these people and that you, Lord, have been seen face to face, that your cloud stays over them, and that you go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. [15] If you put all these people to death, leaving none alive, the nations who have heard this report about you will say, [16] ‘The Lord was not able to bring these people into the land he promised them on oath, so he slaughtered them in the wilderness.’
Numbers 14:17-20 NIV
[17] “Now may the Lord’s strength be displayed, just as you have declared: [18] ‘The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.’ [19] In accordance with your great love, forgive the sin of these people, just as you have pardoned them from the time they left Egypt until now.” [20] The Lord replied, “I have forgiven them, as you asked.
** Moses wants to discuss with those challenging him their uprising but the men refuse to come
Numbers 16:12-14 NIV
[12] Then Moses summoned Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab. But they said, “We will not come! [13] Isn’t it enough that you have brought us up out of a land flowing with milk and honey to kill us in the wilderness? And now you also want to lord it over us! [14] Moreover, you haven’t brought us into a land flowing with milk and honey or given us an inheritance of fields and vineyards. Do you want to treat these men like slaves ? No, we will not come! ”
** The assembly did not learn from the previous day when God destroyed the men who rose up against Moses, and they grumbled against the leaders
• The Lord unleashed His wrath against this obstinate people
• There are times when people simply will not change their mind and believe, despite the miracles and evidence they see (or refuse to see)
• People who refused to listen to Moses were 'cut off' from their people
• Like in the days of Moses, it's best to stop talking to those who refuse to believe because, at this point, any word from you is not going to change their mind <D40>
Numbers 16:41-45 NIV
[41] The next day the whole Israelite community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. “You have killed the Lord’s people,” they said. [42] But when the assembly gathered in opposition to Moses and Aaron and turned toward the tent of meeting, suddenly the cloud covered it and the glory of the Lord appeared. [43] Then Moses and Aaron went to the front of the tent of meeting, [44] and the Lord said to Moses, [45] “Get away from this assembly so I can put an end to them at once.” And they fell facedown.
Numbers 16:46-50 NIV
[46] Then Moses said to Aaron, “Take your censer and put incense in it, along with burning coals from the altar, and hurry to the assembly to make atonement for them. Wrath has come out from the Lord; the plague has started.” [47] So Aaron did as Moses said, and ran into the midst of the assembly. The plague had already started among the people, but Aaron offered the incense and made atonement for them. [48] He stood between the living and the dead, and the plague stopped. [49] But 14,700 people died from the plague, in addition to those who had died because of Korah. [50] Then Aaron returned to Moses at the entrance to the tent of meeting, for the plague had stopped.
Acts 3:22-23 NIV
[22] For Moses said, 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. [23] Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from their people.'
** The Israelites were not to follow their own prophet or dreamer but purge (destroy) the evil from among them -- even friends, family and entire towns trying to entice others away from God; today’s Christian also must be willing to prioritize God, even above family, and not follow any other god
Deuteronomy 13:1-4 NIV
[1] If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a sign or wonder, [2] and if the sign or wonder spoken of takes place, and the prophet says, “Let us follow other gods” (gods you have not known) “and let us worship them,” [3] you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul. [4] It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.
Deuteronomy 5:7 NIV
[7] “You shall have no other gods before me.
Deuteronomy 13:5 NIV
[5] That prophet or dreamer must be put to death for inciting rebellion against the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. That prophet or dreamer tried to turn you from the way the Lord your God commanded you to follow. You must purge the evil from among you.
Deuteronomy 13:6-10 NIV
[6] If your very own brother, or your son or daughter, or the wife you love, or your closest friend secretly entices you, saying, “Let us go and worship other gods” (gods that neither you nor your ancestors have known, [7] gods of the peoples around you, whether near or far, from one end of the land to the other), [8] do not yield to them or listen to them. Show them no pity. Do not spare them or shield them. [9] You must certainly put them to death. Your hand must be the first in putting them to death, and then the hands of all the people. [10] Stone them to death, because they tried to turn you away from the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
Deuteronomy 13:14-15 NIV
[14] then you must inquire, probe and investigate it thoroughly. And if it is true and it has been proved that this detestable thing has been done among you, [15] you must certainly put to the sword all who live in that town. You must destroy it completely, both its people and its livestock.
** The Lord provided 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.”
** The Lord hears our voice and knows our motive; do we seek to know Him and find favor with Him?
Exodus 33:12-13 NIV
[12] Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ [13] If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”
** Joseph stayed true to his morals and respected Potiphar by not sleeping with his wife, recognizing that would be a sin against God
• Joseph wasn’t fooled; he knew this ‘victimless crime’ in having sex with Potiphar’s wife was, in fact, a sin against God
• Satan eagerly sticks new labels on old sins, trying to confuse humanity and provide us with excuses to do what we know is wrong
• It is important that our vision be as clear as Joseph’s, and that we be as honest with ourselves as Joseph was with Potiphar’s wife <R1795>
Genesis 39:6b-9 NIV
[6] Now Joseph was well-built and handsome, [7] and after a while his master's wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!” [8] But he refused. “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care. [9] No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”
** Joseph did what was right in the eyes of God despite the false accusations brought on by Potiphar’s wife, and despite the result of falling from high position to prison
Genesis 39:11-15 NIV
[11] One day he went into the house to attend to his duties, and none of the household servants was inside. [12] She caught him by his cloak and said, “Come to bed with me!” But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house. [13] When she saw that he had left his cloak in her hand and had run out of the house, [14] she called her household servants. “Look,” she said to them, “this Hebrew has been brought to us to make sport of us! He came in here to sleep with me, but I screamed. [15] When he heard me scream for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house.”
Genesis 39:19-20a NIV
[19] When his master heard the story his wife told him, saying, “This is how your slave treated me,” he burned with anger. [20] Joseph's master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined.
** We know the mind of God because a curse was to be placed on a woman suspected of cheating on her husband; this was called the Law of Jealousy and the result would show guilt or innocence
Numbers 5:27-28 NIV
[27] If she has made herself impure and been unfaithful to her husband, this will be the result: When she is made to drink the water that brings a curse and causes bitter suffering, it will enter her, her abdomen will swell and her womb will miscarry, and she will become a curse. [28] If, however, the woman has not made herself impure, but is clean, she will be cleared of guilt and will be able to have children.
Numbers 5:29-31 NIV
[29] “ ‘This, then, is the law of jealousy when a woman goes astray and makes herself impure while married to her husband, [30] or when feelings of jealousy come over a man because he suspects his wife. The priest is to have her stand before the Lord and is to apply this entire law to her. [31] The husband will be innocent of any wrongdoing, but the woman will bear the consequences of her sin.’ ”
** There was not a trace of resentment for previous mistreatment from his brothers when Joseph identifyied himself to his brothers
Genesis 45:14-15 NIV
[14] Then he threw his arms around his brother Benjamin and wept, and Benjamin embraced him, weeping. [15] And he kissed all his brothers and wept over them. Afterward his brothers talked with him.
** Some people will recognize exemplary behavior and reward accordingly; our job is to be true to God and WHO He calls us to be regardless of WHERE He places us
Genesis 39:20b-23 NIV
[20] But while Joseph was there in the prison, [21] the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. [22] So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. [23] The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph's care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.
** Do not add or take away from what the Lord has commanded
Deuteronomy 12:32 NIV
[32] See that you do all I command you; do not add to it or take away from it.
** We follow the ways of the spirit in us; those who belong to Christ have the Holy Spirit in them and abide by His leading
Romans 8:5-9 NIV
[5] Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. [6] The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. [7] The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. [8] Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God. [9] You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.
** The Israelites remained flexible to obey God's timing, regardless of the amount of time the cloud remained from instance to instance
Numbers 9:19-22 NIV
[19] When the cloud remained over the tabernacle a long time, the Israelites obeyed the Lord’s order and did not set out. [20] Sometimes the cloud was over the tabernacle only a few days; at the Lord’s command they would encamp, and then at his command they would set out. [21] Sometimes the cloud stayed only from evening till morning, and when it lifted in the morning, they set out. Whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud lifted, they set out. [22] Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out.
Numbers 9:23 NIV
[23] At the Lord’s command they encamped, and at the Lord’s command they set out. They obeyed the Lord’s order, in accordance with his command through Moses.
** No doubt Abram was confused how God would fulfill His promise to make a great nation through him when he remained childless
Genesis 15:2-3 NIV
[2] But Abram said, “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus? ” [3] And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.”
** The Lord confirms His promise to give Abram descendants equal to the number of stars in the sky; God credited Abram's faith as righteousness
Genesis 15:4-6 NIV
[4] Then the word of the Lord came to him: “This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir. ” [5] He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars---if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” [6] Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
** Abram needed confirmation of the dedication of land, so God tells him exactly what sacrifice is needed after which the Lord speaks to him in a dream
Genesis 15:8-9 NIV
[8] But Abram said, “Sovereign Lord, how can I know that I will gain possession of it?” [9] So the Lord said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.”
Genesis 15:12-13 NIV
[12] As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over him. [13] Then the Lord said to him, “Know for certain that for four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own and that they will be enslaved and mistreated there.
** Abraham was concerned about fulfilling the covenant God made with him (to be the blessed father of future generations) thereby asking his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac among his relatives in his home country
Genesis 24:2-4,9 NIV
[2] He said to the senior servant in his household, the one in charge of all that he had, “Put your hand under my thigh. [3] I want you to swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you will not get a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I am living, [4] but will go to my country and my own relatives and get a wife for my son Isaac. ” [9] So the servant put his hand under the thigh of his master Abraham and swore an oath to him concerning this matter.
** God justifies the ungodly who have faith
Romans 6:5 NIV
[5] For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.
** Jacob sends his household ahead and he is alone; Jacob ends up wrestling with God all night and God blesses him for overcoming his situation
Genesis 32:23-24 NIV
[23] After he had sent them across the stream, he sent over all his possessions. [24] So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak.
Genesis 32:26-28 NIV
[26] Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” [27] The man asked him, “What is your name?” “Jacob,” he answered. [28] Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.”
** 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.
** We live by faith and knowledge of God’s truth, not by sight
• Faith is believing in God, to receive His righteousness with an open hand
• Faith is not a blind thing, for faith begins with knowledge. It is not a speculative thing, for faith believes facts of which it is sure. It is not an unpractical, dreamy thing, for faith trusts and stakes its destiny upon the truth of revelation. Faith is the EYE which looks, the HAND which grasps, the MOUTH which feeds upon Christ <S185>
2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV
[7] For we live by faith, not by sight.
2 Peter 1:5-8 NIV
[5] For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; [6] and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; [7] and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. [8] For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 John 3:3 NIV
[3] All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
** God commands we set time aside and change our routine, specifically on the Sabbath, to remember He is holy
Exodus 31:12-14 NIV
[12] Then the Lord said to Moses, [13] “Say to the Israelites, ‘You must observe my Sabbaths. This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that I am the Lord, who makes you holy. [14] “ ‘Observe the Sabbath, because it is holy to you. Anyone who desecrates it is to be put to death; those who do any work on that day must be cut off from their people.
Exodus 31:15-17 NIV
[15] For six days work is to be done, but the seventh day is a day of sabbath rest, holy to the Lord. Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day is to be put to death. [16] The Israelites are to observe the Sabbath, celebrating it for the generations to come as a lasting covenant. [17] It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed.
** David realizes those who think they are strong in their own might will be brought to everlasting ruin
Psalm 52:5-7 NIV
[5] Surely God will bring you down to everlasting ruin: He will snatch you up and pluck you from your tent; he will uproot you from the land of the living. [6] The righteous will see and fear; they will laugh at you, saying, [7] “Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others!”
Psalm 55:23 NIV
[23] But you, God, will bring down the wicked into the pit of decay; the bloodthirsty and deceitful will not live out half their days. But as for me, I trust in you.
** When the Father of Lies enters the pulpit with a Bible under his arm! (aka Apostasy) <P161>
The success of a counterfeiter depends largely upon how closely the counterfeit resembles the genuine article.
Heresy is not so much the total denial of the truth, as a perversion of it. That is why a half-lie is always more dangerous than a complete repudiation.
Hence when the Father of Lies enters the pulpit with a Bible under his arm it is not his custom to flatly deny the fundamental truths of Christianity; rather he tacitly acknowledges them, and then proceeds to give an erroneous interpretation and a false application.
False prophets are to be found in the circles of the most orthodox, and they pretend to have a fervent love for souls--yet they fatally delude multitudes concerning the way of salvation! These pulpit hucksters have wantonly lowered the standard of divine holiness and so adulterated the Gospel, in order to make it palatable to the carnal mind.
Any preacher . . .
• who adulterates God's Word,
• who denies repentance to be a condition of salvation,
• who assures the giddy and godless that they are loved by God,
• who declares that saving faith is nothing more mental assent
--is a false prophet, and should be shunned as a deadly plague!
It is only those who truly love Christ who are fitted to minister to His flock! The work is so laborious, the appreciation is often so small, the response is so discouraging, the criticisms are so harsh, the attacks of Satan are so fierce, that only the "love of Christ"--His love for us and our love for Him--can "constrain" to such work.
"Hirelings" will feed the goats--but only those who love Christ can feed His sheep!
** The one who trusts in God’s unfailing love and His works can be productive and secure like an olive tree
Psalm 52:8-9 NIV
[8] But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever. [9] For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.
** It is by faith we stand firm
2 Corinthians 1:24 NIV
[24] Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.
** May our actions meet up with our words; impressive talk is not valued as much as the written word and actions
2 Corinthians 10:10-11 NIV
[10] For some say, “His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing.” [11] Such people should realize that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present.
** 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.
** The concepts of 'guilt' and 'response' (including confession and restitution) is defined so everyone knows of potential sources, whether from intended or unintended actions and consequences
Confession was a required part of sacrifice as an outward expression of a repentant heart; sacrifice minus true faith, repentance, and obedience was hypocrisy <M130>
Leviticus 5:17 NIV
[17] “If anyone sins and does what is forbidden in any of the Lord’s commands, even though they do not know it, they are guilty and will be held responsible.
Leviticus 5:5-6 NIV
[5] when anyone becomes aware that they are guilty in any of these matters, they must confess in what way they have sinned. [6] As a penalty for the sin they have committed, they must bring to the Lord a female lamb or goat from the flock as a sin offering ; and the priest shall make atonement for them for their sin.
Leviticus 5:16 NIV
[16] They must make restitution for what they have failed to do in regard to the holy things, pay an additional penalty of a fifth of its value and give it all to the priest. The priest will make atonement for them with the ram as a guilt offering, and they will be forgiven.
Psalm 26:4 NIV
[4] I do not sit with the deceitful, nor do I associate with hypocrites.
Amos 5:21-24 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. [24] But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!
** 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>
• Love does not tolerate evil but admonishes those who are practicing or headed toward it
• 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.
** God conditionally promises to be with His children when they acknowledge Him and separate themselves from that which defiles both body and mind; complete or perfect holiness was embodied only in Christ and believers are to pursue Him
2 Corinthians 6:16b-18 NIV
[16] As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” [17] Therefore, “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” [18] And, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”
Matthew 5:48 NIV
[48] Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
** Our goal as Christians should be pleasing God while anticipating future reward for our efforts
2 Corinthians 5:9-10 NIV
[9] So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. [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.
** 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.
** In response to God’s promises, New Testament believers STRIVE to live pure lives perfecting holiness out of reverence for God
“False religion panders to the human appetites represented by both ‘flesh and spirit’. While some believers might for a time avoid succumbing to fleshly sins associated with false religion, the Christian who exposes his mind to false teaching cannot avoid contamination by the devilish ideologies and blasphemies that assault the purity of divine truth and blaspheme God’s name.” <M130>
2 Corinthians 7:1 NIV
[1] Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
2 Corinthians 6:16b-18 NIV
[16] As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” [17] Therefore, “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” [18] And, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”
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.
Matthew 5:48 NIV
[48] Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
** Repentance is a non-negotiable requirement for anyone wanting to obtain salvation from their sin
• As Paul states, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation"
2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV
[10] Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
** Servant Leader References
Mark 10:42-45 ESV
And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
1 Peter 5:3 ESV
Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.
Mark 10:45 ESV
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
John 13:12-15 ESV
When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.
Acts 20:35 ESV
In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Luke 22:26 ESV
But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.
Hebrews 13:7 ESV
Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.
Philippians 2:3-8 ESV
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. ...
** Everything we do should be for the glory of God
1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV
[31] So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
** Follow the way of love when seeking and implementing all gifts as given by God
Prophesy was seen as a desirable gift because it helped edify the church in a way that tongues cannot <M130>
1 Corinthians 14:1 NIV
[1] Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.
1 Corinthians 14:5 NIV
[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.
1 Corinthians 14:39 NIV
[39] Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.
** 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
** Our relationship with God is conditional for He tends to our needs and protects us when we recognize Him
Psalm 34:5-7 NIV
[5] Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. [6] This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. [7] The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
** God speaks through His servants, often on deaf ears
1 Corinthians 14:21 NIV
[21] In the Law it is written: “With other tongues and through the lips of foreigners I will speak to this people, but even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord.”
** Interesting that the New Testament does not mention Paul or any other believer using the gift of tongues <M130>
1 Corinthians 14:18-19 NIV
[18] I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. [19] But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.
** We can WOW everyone with gifts that seemingly come from the Spirit but if we don’t operate out of love then, as Paul states, we are meaningless gongs that are nothing and gain nothing
• For instance, a person can serve the poor and the poor will benefit
• While others benefit from service rendered without love, the person who provides the service may gain nothing
• Christians who work hard at serving – perhaps out of fear or even a sense of duty – yet still feel empty, should check whether they are doing so out of love for the other
• When serving in love, the Christian can gain satisfaction, joy, future reward, and an inner serenity that comes with knowing we have pleased the Lord <R1795>
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NIV
[1] If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. [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. [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.
1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV
[13] And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 14:1 NIV
[1] Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.
** 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.
** Scripture does not follow the current day mantra where “everyone's a winner” but reminds us to win the race according to God’s Word if we want to obtain the prize
1 Corinthians 9:24 NIV
[24] Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
** Running the race involves having a direction/goal and personal sacrifice
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 NIV
[26] Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. [27] No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
1 Corinthians 10:16 NIV
[16] Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?
** Aaron is not a good example of leadership when he blamed the people who were "prone to evil" instead of standing up to them and leading them out of their evil desires
• Aaron and Moses provide us with contrasting insights into spiritual leadership
• Aaron did what the people demanded and made them a god; in fact, went further to build an altar!
• Leaders are suppose to do what God requires, not take the ‘easy way out’ and give what people demand <R1795>
Exodus 32:21-22 NIV
[21] He said to Aaron, “What did these people do to you, that you led them into such great sin?” [22] “Do not be angry, my lord,” Aaron answered. “You know how prone these people are to evil.
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.
** Wise words from Paul for Christians to “stand firm in the faith” and “be courageous” and “be strong”, doing “everything in love”
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NIV
[13] Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. [14] Do everything in love.
** 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.
** As Christians our prize is far beyond what we experience here on earth, for we can obtain an eternal heavenly reward
1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV
[25] Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.
** Paul once again talks of being innocent as doves (about what is good) and wise as serpents (about what is evil)
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.
Matthew 10:16 NIV
[16] [Jesus said] “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Romans 16:19 NIV
[19] Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
** 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 makes a plea to the Corinthians to support him as he preaches the Gospel he is determined to share
1 Corinthians 9:14 NIV
[14] In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.
1 Corinthians 9:16-18 NIV
[16] For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! [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.
** 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.
** 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.
** 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 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.
** Demonstrate love and forgiveness to those sensitive and remorseful of their sin
• The purpose of Christian discipline isn’t to punish but to restore!
• We should not be out to make a person suffer for his sins; Christ has already suffered for those
• What we’re out to do is bring a sinner back to righteousness and to fellowship with the Lord
• Repentance – turning away from the sin and back to God – is everything <R1795>
2 Corinthians 2:5-8 NIV
[5] If anyone has caused grief, he has not so much grieved me as he has grieved all of you to some extent---not to put it too severely. [6] The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. [7] Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. [8] I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him.
** Those who do not forgive are more susceptible to Satan’s schemes
2 Corinthians 2:9-11 NIV
[9] Another reason I wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything. [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.
** Paul informed the Corinthians they were to regard Apollos and himself as servants of Christ, entrusted with the mysteries of God who must prove themselves faithful
• Apostles were no more than servants of Christ but not to be undervalued
• Paul was concerned for his reputation, assuring others his aim was to please God (not men) thus proving himself a faithful servant of Christ <H83>
1 Corinthians 4:1 NIV
[1] This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed.
1 Corinthians 4:2 NIV
[2] Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.
** Much of what is required of Christians involves following Christ’s command to love others with a positive, proactive, action and attitude that not only builds up our neighbor but brings honor and glory to God
Romans 15:2 NIV
Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.
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.
** Christian leaders are not to be a burden to their audience, just like parents are not to be a burden to their children
2 Corinthians 12:14 NIV
[14] Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you. After all, children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.
** God’s people willingly and joyfully give of themselves and their possessions, even during times of suffering and poverty
• The poor still tend to be more generous than the rich perhaps because they can better identify with others in need
• Perhaps the poor have learned to trust the Lord so much they do not fear giving <R1795>
• Freely giving makes the gift acceptable
2 Corinthians 8:2-5 NIV
[2] In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. [3] For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, [4] they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord's people. [5] And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.
2 Corinthians 8:10-12 NIV
[10] And here is my judgment about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. [11] Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. [12] For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.
2 Corinthians 9:5 NIV
[5] So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you in advance and finish the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given.
2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV
[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.
** The act of giving is an essential element of a Christian’s life in addition to faith, speech, knowledge and love; this is not a command but a test of sincerity
2 Corinthians 8:7-8 NIV
[7] But since you excel in everything---in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you---see that you also excel in this grace of giving. [8] I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others.
** Paul issues a warning to followers of Christ to be careful, for those who think they are standing firm may fall if they allow temptation to overcome them; God always provides a way for Christians to endure and overcome temptation!
1 Corinthians 10:12-13 NIV
[12] So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! [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.
** 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.
** There is to be a marked difference between the mature Christian and world
• Christians, for instance, are not to be consumed by jealousy and quarreling
• “Milk” used in the New Testament refers to what is basic and needed for spiritual growth, such as elementary truths of God’s word
• Being ready for “solid food” refers to those more mature in the faith able to distinguish between good and evil
• In other words, Christian maturity happens when a believer purposely reads and obeys and applies God’s word to their life; growth is up to the individual
1 Corinthians 3:1-3 NIV
[1] Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly---mere infants in Christ. [2] I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. [3] You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?
Hebrews 5:12-14 NIV
[12] In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! [13] Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. [14] But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
** 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.
** 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.
** 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.
** Do not judge others but remember we will all be held accountable before God who will judge everyone perfectly in the final days; likewise do not be a stumbling block to anyone by condemning or judging them
Romans 14:10-12 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. [11] It is written: “ 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.'” [12] So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.
Romans 14:13 NIV
[13] Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.
** Genuine believers will experience a lasting transformation of the heart and their actions will reflect what is in their heart; if others do not see evidence of Christ in the life of the proclaimed believer, they have a right to question the validity and effect of the message
Romans 2:17-29 NIV
[17] Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God; [18] if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; [19] if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, [20] an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of little children, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth--- [21] you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? [22] You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? [23] You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? [24] As it is written: “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” [25] Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, you have become as though you had not been circumcised. [26] So then, if those who are not circumcised keep the law’s requirements, will they not be regarded as though they were circumcised? [27] The one who is not circumcised physically and yet obeys the law will condemn you who, even though you have the written code and circumcision, are a lawbreaker. [28] A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. [29] No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God.
** We can experience control over sin, power over the evil one and gain understanding/truth when we know God and believe in Him
1. We have control over sin
1 John 5:18 NIV
[18] We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.
2. We have power over the evil one
1 John 5:19 NIV
[19] We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.
3. God gives us understanding and we can know truth
1 John 5:20 NIV
[20] We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.
** Our service to the Lord should never lack in spiritual fervor and zeal
Romans 12:11 NIV
[11] Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
** Paul expresses his concern for the Israelites that their zeal may be founded in what is true, not based on their limited intellect and knowledge
Romans 10:1-2 NIV
[1] Brothers and sisters, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved. [2] For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge.
** We trust God (exhibit faith) when we close our eyes to the things of this world; Isaiah knew there was more to life than what he saw, namely God's glory!
John 12:40-41 NIV
[40] “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn---and I would heal them.” [41] Isaiah said this because he saw Jesus’ glory and spoke about him.
Isaiah 6:8-10 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!” [9] He said, “Go and tell this people: “ ‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ [10] Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.”
** Leaders allow the Lord to vindicate us and plead our case against our foes
Psalm 43:1,3a NIV
[1] Vindicate me, my God, and plead my cause against an unfaithful nation. Rescue me from those who are deceitful and wicked. [3] Send me your light and your faithful care
** 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!”
** There were periods of time in the Old Testament that God stopped speaking audibly or through dreams
• God spoke to prophets – and promises to speak again
Acts 2:17 NIV
[17] “ ‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.
It would be impossible to say, definitively, whether or not God gives prophetic dreams to people today. There are many reports of prophetic dreams, especially in areas where access to the Bible and the gospel are limited. God may sometimes use dreams to guide people to places where they can hear the gospel and be saved. A wide variety of spiritual or prophetic dreams are reported by a wide variety of Christians in many countries. But none of these are verifiable to the degree that we can say “yes, God definitely gives prophetic dreams today.”
If you think you have had a prophetic dream or have heard a firsthand story from another person who has had a prophetic dream, the first question to ask is “is this dream from God?” Compare the content of the dream and its message to the Scriptures; if anything seems to contradict God’s words or His nature, it is wise to disregard the dream—even if it comes true. God will never go against His Word. The Bible is our standard for truth and the revelation that God has given. We can always ask God for wisdom when examining a dream. <G72>
• We are told to test the spirits, and the Lord with confirm
1 Corinthians 14:29-31 NIV
[29] Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. [30] And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop. [31] For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged.
James 1:5 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.
** Prophets and teachers were directed by the Holy Spirit and circumstances on the missionary journey; see Missionary Journeys note for location and timing details
Acts 13:1-3 NIV
[1] Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. [2] While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” [3] So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
Acts 16:9-10 NIV
[9] During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” [10] After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
** Many choose to depend on comfortable religious edict and tradition, than in a dynamic life-saving power of a living God
Acts 26:7 NIV
[7] This is the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as they earnestly serve God day and night. King Agrippa, it is because of this hope that these Jews are accusing me.
** 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!’
** The disciples changed location as the Holy Spirit directed and in response to rejection and persecution
Acts 13:51-52 NIV
[51] So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went [from Antioch] to Iconium. [52] And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 14:5-7 NIV
[5] There was a plot afoot among both Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. [6] But they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding country, [7] where they continued to preach the gospel.
** Jesus did not come to lead war but to show us a different way, even to the point of personal ridicule and death
Luke 22:49-51 NIV
[49] When Jesus’ followers saw what was going to happen, they said, “Lord, should we strike with our swords?” [50] And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. [51] But Jesus answered, “No more of this!” And he touched the man’s ear and healed him.
Luke 22:52-53 NIV
[52] Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard, and the elders, who had come for him, “Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs? [53] Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on me. But this is your hour---when darkness reigns.”
Luke 22:63-65 NIV
[63] The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him. [64] They blindfolded him and demanded, “Prophesy! Who hit you?” [65] And they said many other insulting things to him.
** Jesus remained silent when plied with questions from Herod, who apparently rejected the gospel after hearing it from John the Baptist; Jesus demonstrated how not to feed pearls before swine
Luke 23:9 NIV
[9] He plied him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer.
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.
** Jesus was to glorify God the Father through His death and sacrifice on the cross; likewise we are to glorify God through our lives
John 17:1 NIV
[1] After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you."
John 17:4 NIV
[4] I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.
** Jesus said those who believe in Christ can do similar works as He when they ask in Jesus name and according to His will
John 14:12-14 NIV
[12] Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. [13] And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. [14] You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
** God enabled the apostles to perform signs and wonders to confirm their message
Acts 14:8-10 NIV
[8] In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way from birth and had never walked. [9] He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed [10] and called out, “Stand up on your feet!” At that, the man jumped up and began to walk.
** We should be willing to adjust outward signs to make sure our message is unhindered to young- or non-believers
Timothy was a wonderful asset to the mission for he had access to both Jewish and Greek populations; he came from a family with a Jewish mother and Gentile father
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.
** People can often misinterpret the power displayed by miracles, supporting gods or source they believe in rather than listening to the message accompanying these miracles; as representatives of God we must make sure to give credit to God and not allow misinterpretation or self-credit
Acts 14:11-13 NIV
[11] When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” [12] Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. [13] The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them.
Acts 14:14-18 NIV
[14] But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: [15] “Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. [16] In the past, he let all nations go their own way. [17] Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” [18] Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them.
** Ultimately, God is our true judge despite who sits in the judge's chair while we live in this world; Pilate sat on the judgment seat at the time of Jesus trial and judged by self-interest while God judges by the truth
John 19:6 NIV
[6] As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” But Pilate answered, “You take him and crucify him. As for me, I find no basis for a charge against him.”
John 19:12 NIV
[12] From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jewish leaders kept shouting, “If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar.”
** God holds all authority; man's authority in this world is given to him by God
John 19:10-11 NIV
[10] “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?” [11] Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.”
** False teachers generally do not recognize Jesus as the Son of God or recognize that the Holy Spirit bears witness to Jesus today; similarly, the Pharisees accused Jesus for not having a witness to verify His claim, but His words, knowledge of where He came from and is going, His death/resurrection and works in the lives of those around Him were His witnesses
John 8:13-14 NIV
[13] The Pharisees challenged him, “Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid.” [14] Jesus answered, “Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going.
John 8:30 NIV
[30] Even as he spoke, many believed in him.
** If we want to bear fruit, proving our allegiance to God as disciples, then we must remain in Him; this entails that we obey Him and lean on Him for everything needed to sustain our life in Christ
John 15:5,8 NIV
[5] “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. [8] This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
** Saul and Barnabas taught young Christians during the early years in Antioch
Acts 11:25-26 NIV
[25] Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, [26] and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
** Disciples use their abilities to help fellow brothers and sisters in Christ in whatever way possible
Acts 11:29-30 NIV
[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.
** God uses fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to encourage His children; allow yourself to be used to encourage others when God presents the opportunity
Acts 28:14-15 NIV
[14] There we found some brothers and sisters who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. [15] The brothers and sisters there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these people Paul thanked God and was encouraged.
** The Lord will cut off all those who do not remain in Him and bear no fruit; some may even claim to be Christ followers
John 15:2 NIV
[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.
Matthew 7:22-23 NIV
[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!’
** The True Shepherd lays down His life for His sheep, as opposed to leaders who are impostors running from the sheep when danger comes
John 10:11-13 NIV
[11] “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. [12] The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. [13] The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
** Those who recognize the authority of Jesus and admit their need for Him can receive His light, which opens their eyes to spiritual knowledge and insight
John 9:39 NIV
[39] Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”
** Jesus was willing to take a stand for what is right even though Jewish law says He could be stoned; Jesus knew what was right and was willing to challenge the human authorities
John 5:17-18 NIV
[17] In his defense Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.” [18] For this reason they tried all the more to kill him; not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.
** Jesus reply to the usurping of rules over His ministry confirmed that God is not bound by man's agenda, including Old Testament tradition
John 5:16-17 NIV
[16] So, because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jewish leaders began to persecute him. [17] In his defense Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.”
** God often tests our faith by asking what we should do (will Philip think about turning to Jesus for the answer?); often Jesus lets us evaluate the problem from our limited perspective to later appreciate the supernatural work of God
John 6:5-6 NIV
[5] When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” [6] He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.
Mark 6:37 NIV
But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages ! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?”
- Andrew focused on how few resources were available; he brought the boy's few loaves and fish to Jesus' attention
- Philip had a logical mind; he saw the enormity of the problem and asked "where shall we buy bread for the people?"
- Philip did not consider Jesus help or ability to solve the problem
- even though both disciples saw Jesus turn water into wine and heal the invalid, they still thought Jesus could not meet this problem
- the boy should be commended for giving all he had to Jesus; nothing is too small for Jesus, like the woman who have of her few coins
** Evangelizing starts with sowing the seed; like the Chinese proverb that 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.
** 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.
** Those who think they are wise do not understand spiritual matters as designed by God; we need to be open, flexible and trusting as little children
Luke 10:21 NIV
[21] At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.
Luke 10:23-24 NIV
[23] Then he turned to his disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. [24] For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”
** We should seek for God's direction and join Him; it is better to join God than unwittingly interfere, even though God's plan cannot be thwarted
Acts 11:15-17 NIV
[15] “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. [16] Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ [17] So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”
** Beware when you are (or desire to be) liked by everyone, for you may be falsifying in order to tickle the ears of those around you; expect others to hate you when you represent God
Luke 6:26 NIV
[26] Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.
Luke 6:22 NIV
[22] Blessed are you when people hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man.
** We often fear what other men can do to us but we should fear what the Almighty has in store for us, for the body only lasts a short time but our soul is eternal
Luke 12:4-5 NIV
[4] “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. [5] But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.
** Those in leadership often do not like when others seemingly usurp their authority/power or ideas and will respond in retaliation, but those who abide by God's commands/agenda will be protected
Acts 9:23-24 NIV
[23] After many days had gone by, there was a conspiracy among the Jews to kill him, [24] but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him.
Acts 9:25 NIV
[25] But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.
Acts 9:29-30 NIV
[29] He talked and debated with the Hellenistic Jews, but they tried to kill him. [30] When the believers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.
** A Pharisee correctly reasons with the others that if the apostle's power was of human origin it will fail; words to remember with false prophets today
Acts 5:38-39 NIV
[38] Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. [39] But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
** God can use the most unlikely people to witness for Him, as He did with Saul who killed the early believers but later became the apostle Paul; God used the persecution to spread the Good News
Acts 8:3 NIV
[3] But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.
Acts 9:1-2 NIV
[1] Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest [2] and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.
Acts 8:1,4 NIV
[1] And Saul approved of their killing [Stephen]. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. [4] Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.
** We must be extremely careful we are not the cause of another to stumble!
Luke 17:1-2 NIV
[1] Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. [2] It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble.
** Do you pride yourself on being shrewd? This trait indicates you are more of earthly than heavenly persuasion
Luke 16:8b NIV
[8] “... the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light.
** A person who cannot be trusted with a small amount of riches in a Godly manner will not be trusted with more
Luke 16:10-12 NIV
[10] “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. [11] So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? [12] And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own?
** Jesus uses a parable of the blind leading the blind to question how 'leaders' can lead others when they themselves don't know where they are going...?
Luke 6:39-40 NIV
[39] He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? [40] The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.
- Jesus asks how the Scribes or Pharisees can lead others when they don't know themselves
- how can they make disciples any better than themselves?
- they and their scholars will perish together
** Jesus talks about the hypocrisy of some concerning themselves over the actions of another when they have issues they should address themselves first; clean the plank from your own eye first so you can see clearly and help another
Luke 6:41-42 NIV
[41] “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? [42] How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
- why focus on the faults of your brother when your faults are greater?
- it's hypocrisy to pretend zeal for the correction of others when we have none for ourselves
- pray for others as you would yourselves
** Jesus is eager to share Passover with His disciples before His upcoming suffering; Jesus will not partake in this way again until events are fulfilled on earth and we experience His Second Coming
Luke 22:15-16 NIV
[15] And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. [16] For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.”
Luke 22:17-18 NIV
[17] After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. [18] For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”
Luke 22:69 NIV
[69] But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God.”
** Our lives should be a witness for Christ as we reflect His goodness and power; He enables us to do so
1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 NIV
Rejoice always, [17] pray continually, [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. [19] Do not quench the Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 5:24 NIV
The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.
** As Christians we are to adhere to the governing bodies around us that have been installed by God as a matter of conscience, unless their governing directly goes against God’s commands
Scripture upholds the view that Christians are allowed to act in civil disobedience when governments command Christians to act in a manner contrary to Scripture; an example is in Joshua 2 when Rahab hid Israelite spies despite the king’s command
Romans 13:1 NIV
[1] Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
Romans 13:5 NIV
[5] Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
Joshua 2:3-4 NIV
[3] So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: “Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land.” [4] But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. She said, “Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from.
** The Holy Spirit provides us with words of wisdom that cannot be matched
Acts 6:8-10 NIV
[8] Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. [9] Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)---Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia---who began to argue with Stephen. [10] But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.
** As followers of God we must let our light shine and show others why we are different through Christ
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.
** David invites others to join him in praising God at all times; these verses encourage members of the Christian community to share in our knowing God and praising Him; also gives us direction to help the afflicted to look to God with us
Psalm 34:1-3 NIV
[1] I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. [2] I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. [3] Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.
** Whoever wants to be Jesus disciples must be willing to give up everything and follow Him, including family
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.”
** David feels absolutely helpless and relies completely on God to come to his defense
Psalm 38:13-14 NIV
[13] I am like the deaf, who cannot hear, like the mute, who cannot speak; [14] I have become like one who does not hear, whose mouth can offer no reply.
Psalm 38:15,21-22 NIV
[15] Lord, I wait for you; you will answer, Lord my God. [21] Lord, do not forsake me; do not be far from me, my God. [22] Come quickly to help me, my Lord and my Savior.
** Jesus ministered to all segments of society, even the lower classes the Pharisees thought were beneath them
Luke 15:1-2 NIV
[1] Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. [2] But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
** God will show us His way as long as we seek Him, seek His truth and remain teachable
Psalm 25:4-5 NIV
[4] Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. [5] Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
** God can help save us from our transgressions when we seek Him for help
Psalm 39:7-8 NIV
[7] “But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you. [8] Save me from all my transgressions; do not make me the scorn of fools.
** Followers of Christ are instructed to wait patiently for God to act in His timing and not to fret because it only leads to evil
Psalm 37:1-2 NIV
[1] Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; [2] for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.
Psalm 37:7-8 NIV
[7] Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. [8] Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret---it leads only to evil.
** Follow God's will; Jesus knew He needed to take the time to obey the Father in baptism even though He was eager to move on to fulfill God's work
Luke 12:50 NIV
[50] But I have a baptism to undergo, and what constraint I am under until it is completed!
** Even given what seems to us as an obvious need and desire, we must be cognizant of God's will and His purposes
Luke 5:12-13 NIV
[12] While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” [13] Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.
** David understands that he has a responsibility in his relationship with God, to fulfill his vows to the Lord
Psalm 22:25 NIV
[25] From you comes the theme of my praise in the great assembly; before those who fear you I will fulfill my vows.
** 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.”
** Hold to the straight and narrow path as outlined by God, regardless of the temptation to do otherwise
Psalm 17:4-5 NIV
[4] Though people tried to bribe me, I have kept myself from the ways of the violent through what your lips have commanded. [5] My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not stumbled.
** John the Baptist gives specific examples of producing fruit as a result of repe; the sum of it is "cease to do evil and learn to do well" according to MacArthur
Luke 3:11-14 NIV
[11] John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.” [12] Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” [13] “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them. [14] Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely---be content with your pay.”
** Look to Godly models/leaders as examples and divert your eyes from the sinful influences of this world
Philippians 3:17 NIV
Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
Philippians 3:18-20 NIV
For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. [19] Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. [20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,
Philippians 4:8-9 NIV
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.
** Jesus came with a message of love and peace, completely contrary to the worldly thinking and popular notion that the leader Messiah would come using forceful measures to oust opponents and oppressors
Mark 14:48-50 NIV
[48] “Am I leading a rebellion,” said Jesus, “that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? [49] Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple courts, and you did not arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.” [50] Then everyone deserted him and fled.
** 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.
** Remove yourself from WHOever or WHATever causes you to fall or sin, even if they are as useful as a hand, foot or eye; MacArthur believes this passage refers first to removing yourself from people who lead you astray, and second to remove anything that hinders
Mark 9:43,45,47 NIV
[43] If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. [45] And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two feet and be thrown into hell. [47] And if your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell
** The Pharisees were full of hypocrisy and pride; they looked for ways to blame another rather than take opportunity to consider the message and change their behavior
Mark 12:15 NIV
[15] ...But Jesus knew their hypocrisy. “Why are you trying to trap me?” he asked...
Mark 12:12 NIV
[12] Then the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders looked for a way to arrest him because they knew he had spoken the parable against them. But they were afraid of the crowd; so they left him and went away.
Mark 12:13-14 NIV
[13] Later they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words. [14] They came to him and said, “Teacher, we know that you are a man of integrity. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth... "
** Care about what comes out of a man than what a man is exposed to; falls in line with the thinking that it is not wrong to be tempted but it is wrong to act on the temptation
Mark 7:15 NIV
[15] Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”
Mark 7:19-23 NIV
[19] For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.) [20] He went on: “What comes out of a person is what defiles them. [21] For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come---sexual immorality, theft, murder, [22] adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. [23] All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”
** God cares more about the condition of the heart than whether someone follows man's rules or traditions; often these rules nullify the Word of God
Mark 7:1-2,5-7 NIV
[1] The Pharisees and some of the teachers of the law who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus [2] and saw some of his disciples eating food with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. [5] So the Pharisees and teachers of the law asked Jesus, “Why don’t your disciples live according to the tradition of the elders instead of eating their food with defiled hands?” [6] He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: “ ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. [7] They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.’
Mark 7:8-9 NIV
[8] You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions.” [9] And he continued, “You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions!
** 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.
** 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
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.”
** 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.
** The upright followers of God have every reason to place their hope and praise Him
Psalm 33:1 NIV
[1] Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
Psalm 33:18-22 NIV
[18] But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, [19] to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. [20] We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. [21] In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. [22] May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.
** Stay away from those who are idle and work contrary to the Lord's commands; do not regard them as an enemy but warn them about their action/inaction
2 Thessalonians 3:6 NIV
In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.
2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 NIV
Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. [15] Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.
** Sometimes we are called to actively confront the rebellious who speak lies with the hope it not only change their behavior but prevent others from following their lies
• Some people don’t just say statements that are considered ‘dumb’ but outright ‘wrong’ with the purpose of stirring up trouble
• This is what was happening in Crete – people were not taking their faith seriously and teaching error on purpose, ruining households in the process
• In response, Titus was not to be gentle but confront and rebuke them publicly <R1795>
Titus 1:10-11 NIV
For there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision group. [11] They must be silenced, because they are disrupting whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach---and that for the sake of dishonest gain.
Titus 1:14 NIV
and will pay no attention to Jewish myths or to the merely human commands of those who reject the truth.
** As followers of Christ we are to endure all things -- whatever the injustice, the malice, the cruelty others can inflict on us; we try to put the most favorable construction on everything and work toward what is in the best interest of others
When we can no longer believe well of the person, love hopes whatever may excuse or extenuate the fault that cannot be denied; when it cannot be excused then it hopes God will motivate the person to repent; but in the end, we are to suffer all things through Christ who strengthens us
1 Corinthians 13:5-7 NIV
[5] It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
** The Messenger spoke words encouraging the Church in Thyatira of their good deeds, love and effort to grow in faith yet condemned them for following Jezebel; God will deal with Jezebel and those who follow her
Revelation 2:19 NIV
I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.
Revelation 2:20-23 NIV
Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. [21] I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. [22] So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. [23] I will strike her children dead. 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.
** Using Scripture as our guide, we can focus on what is true and good; this will not only help us mature in our faith but experience an undeniable peace while doing so
Philippians 4:8-9 NIV
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.
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.
** Jesus makes it clear that whoever wants to be His disciple must deny Himself to the point of losing his life and (not only this but) sacrifice and 'take up their cross'
MacArthur states this must mean the denying of our own will, however great or small, and embracing the will of God
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.
** The Lord will direct us in the way we should go; we are to go in the direction He determines
Psalm 32:8-9 NIV
[8] I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. [9] Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.
** 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.
** God expects much more from the one who has received much from Him
Luke 12:47-48 NIV
[47] “The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows. [48] But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
** 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.
** God knows those the works of those in Pergamum and has a two-edged sword of judgment and punishment for them; evidence of what's in their heart
Revelation 2:12 NIV
“To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword.
** 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
** Actively guard the faith; lean on God to help
Jude 1:3 NIV
Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.
** Paul references to living as a soldier in a spiritual battle
• Most believe Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome
• Paul understood his role in the spiritual battle that raged around him
• Even in prison, Paul found opportunities to share Christ to people like Onesimus <R1795>
Philemon 1:2 NIV
also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier---and to the church that meets in your home
** God detests non-passioned non-committed followers
Revelation 3:15-16 NIV
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.
** 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.
** We have a responsibility to ACT on our beliefs; if we do then God will be with us; it is conditional!
James 4:7-10 NIV
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.
** Standard and expectation of teachers is high
James 3:1 NIV
Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
** 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 everything without grumbling to show the world that we operate different than they
Philippians 2:14-15 NIV
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
** Leaders are appointed by God; He has a purpose for us which He knew from the beginning
Ephesians 2:10 NIV
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
** Look to see the Spirit at work in you and don't look to your own flesh (intellect, strength, resources, talent); we hopefully will realize all we have comes from God and this world offers us nothing compared to Christ
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.
** What are the effects of my words?
Proverbs 12:6 NIV
The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.
** 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!
** Leader actions will determine their effectiveness for Christ and their 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.
** Leaders use the small but mighty tongue to guide, which may affect 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.
** Leaders understand that the tongue is considered evil, full of deadly poison; leaders recognize this and constantly are aware 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.
** We are filled with inner conflict which affects our actions including how we treat each other; leaders know that in order to have peace we must ask God
James 4:1-2 NIV
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? [2] You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.
** Jesus did not turn away those in need even though He was exhausted; He looked in their hearts and souls; we should likewise put our compassion for others into action
Mark 6:33-34 NIV
But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. [34] When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
** God will deal with leaders who engage in evil in His perfect time
We think we are in control but judgment is coming. Habakkuk talks of numerous areas of warning:
a) extortion (stealing) against the weak; lust for money and power; Babylon was mighty and took advantage of those who are weak through bloodshed etc
b) unjust gain; prideful desire for glory and fame; Nebukzzar built idols to himself and God allowed him to become crazy
c) injustice; how do I respond when wronged?
d) leading others astray; twisting and perverting the right standards of God; nothing lacking or sinful in His creation; sin takes what is good and perverts it for our use
e) setting up idols; trusting in anything other than God
** 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.
** 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.
** Search for God's will then make the most of every day and every opportunity!
Ephesians 5:15-17 NIV
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. [17] Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
** Pray continually - communicate with your Commander so you know what to do during battle - and be bold
Ephesians 6:18 NIV
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.
Ephesians 6:19-20 NIV
Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, [20] for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
** God wants us to live in freedom; don't let Satan steal this joy from you or corrupt your journey
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.
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.
** Use your freedom to serve God and others
• Christians are truly free to indulge in their sinful nature and free to serve one another in love
• Each choice has consequences, so choose to live a life of love <R1795>
Galatians 5:13-14 NIV
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. [14] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
** Be careful what messages you listen to (such as television shows, music, web sites, etc) and what your mind entertains when listening; there should not be even a hint of impurity
• Some may laugh at the Christian and consider them a prude
• God designed sex to be within marriage so it remains rich, beautiful and exciting
• The off-color joke and sly innuendo that the world thinks of as so clever aren’t witty at all
• They reflect a warped view of life and goodness, and lie under the judgment and wrath of God <R1795>
Ephesians 5:3-5 NIV
But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. [4] Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. [5] For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person---such a person is an idolater---has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
Ephesians 5:11-12 NIV
Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. [12] It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.
** Be careful what you listen to because it will have an influence on you, in the same measure you 'take it in'
Mark 4:24 NIV
[24] “Consider carefully what you hear,” he continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you---and even more.
** 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.
** Standard and expectation of teachers is high
James 3:1 NIV
Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
** People are amazed at Jesus' wisdom and power; they begin to recognize Jesus as 'one of their own' and despise Him; Jesus knew they would reject any evidence given them which would only increase their damnation
Mark 6:2-3 NIV
[2] When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. “Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? [3] Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.
Mark 6:4-6 NIV
[4] Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.” [5] He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. [6] He was amazed at their lack of faith. Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village.
** Leaders are expected to speak about Christ with boldness and without hindrance as did Paul
Acts 28:31 NIV
He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ---with all boldness and without hindrance!
** Leaders should make the most of every opportunity; be clear, be hopeful, prayerfully consider what you should do and say to those who do not believe.
Colossians 4:2,4-6 NIV
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. [4] Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. [5] Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. [6] Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
** You don't have to be among the wise or possess special ability to understand the ways of God; in fact, it is best to live by a simple faith like little children
• The little child responds trustingly to Jesus’ word, while the wise and learned stand back to evaluate and rely on their own judgment
• Likewise, the person who is weary and burdened is ready to respond to Christ, while the individual who arrogantly rushes in uses his own strength without regard to the Lord <R1795>
Matthew 11:25 NIV
At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.
** We receive His word, we stand in it regardless of the consequences, and let our stand change our lives every day!
Ephesians 1:13 NIV
And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,
Ephesians 2:22 NIV
And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
** God gives us hope,however, in that the righteous will live by faith! The New Testament is built on this. Anyone can come to God and made right with God through faith alone, such as in Rom 1:16-17 and Gal 3:10-11. Our identification with Baptists or any other group does not cut it.
Romans 1:16-17 NIV
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. [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.”
Galatians 3:10-11 NIV
For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.” [11] Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because “the righteous will live by faith.”
** When you make a vow, make sure it carries weight by fulfilling it
1 Kings 1:29-30 NIV
[29] The king then took an oath: “As surely as the Lord lives, who has delivered me out of every trouble, [30] I will surely carry out this very day what I swore to you by the Lord, the God of Israel: Solomon your son shall be king after me, and he will sit on my throne in my place.”
** Keep moving forward despite what may lie ahead
• Value the mission more than your life
• Paul is an amazing example of one who put his complete trust in the Lord dispute the dangers that lay ahead
Acts 20:22-24 NIV
“And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. [23] I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. [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.
** The Lord will direct our next steps when asked; don't let others discount how God leads just because they don't understand or experience His leading themselves
Acts 23:11 NIV
The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”
** We have access to His awesome strength and insight. How would we feel if given access to all this and more by the powers-that-be on earth? We would think we have the world by the tail. But we DO have access to everything we could imagine (such as all strength and power and wisdom), only for God's purposes and not ours!
Ephesians 1:3 NIV
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.
Ephesians 1:19-20 NIV
and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength [20] he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,
Ephesians 2:18 NIV
For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
Ephesians 3:12 NIV
In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
** God designed us to function in a healthy way and He outlines exactly the steps to make this happen; we can live incredibly fulfilling lives when we follow His plan, even though we live in the midst of an evil world
Colossians 3:5,7-8 NIV
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. [7] You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. [8] But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.
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.
** 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.
**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.
** Christ asks whether our hearts are truly seeking Him or whether we are just following 'religion' or a bunch of man-made rules
Matthew 15:7-9 NIV
You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: [8] “ ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. [9] They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules. ’ ”
** As followers of Christ we are to work diligently, with conviction, and seeking wisdom from God for the glory of our Master; if we obey His instruction (as a servant) and do our absolute best then He will include us in His plan, worthy of leadership
Matthew 24:45-47 NIV
“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. [47] Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.
** Christ says it matters more what comes out of a person via word and action (because it reveals what's in their heart) than whether they can follow a bunch of rules (like eating acceptable food)
Matthew 15:10-11 NIV
Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen and understand. [11] What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.”
Matthew 15:17-20 NIV
“Don’t you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? [18] But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them. [19] For out of the heart come evil thoughts---murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. [20] These are what defile a person; but eating with unwashed hands does not defile them.”
** Leadership involves watching over those entrusted to you and being eager to serve
1 Peter 5:2-4 NIV
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.
** 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.
** Do not promise anything you cannot keep; if you agree or promise something then fulfill it to completion!
Matthew 5:33 NIV
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’
Matthew 5:37 NIV
All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
** Do not 'back up' a promise via heaven or earth or even yourself because they are not under yours to give or under your control
Matthew 5:34-36 NIV
But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; [35] or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. [36] And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black.
** Jesus told His disciples to be both wise to the ways of the world yet also innocent, not participating in these ways
Matthew 10:16 NIV
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
** Be ready to share your testimony, even if others will not like what they hear
• The mob was as confused as the Romans about why Paul was being attacked, for no one stopped to get the facts
• Paul’s defense, made in the everyday language of Aramaic, was biographical to establish his identity and common commitment to the God of Israel
• Paul was a master at identifying with those to whom he ministered and used this gift to share Christ all over the world <R1795>
Acts 22:2-3,6-7,10,12,14-16 NIV
When they heard him speak to them in Aramaic, they became very quiet. Then Paul said: [3] “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I studied under Gamaliel and was thoroughly trained in the law of our ancestors. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today. [6] “About noon as I came near Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me. [7] I fell to the ground and heard a voice say to me, ‘Saul! Saul! Why do you persecute me?’ [10] “ ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ I asked. “ ‘Get up,’ the Lord said, ‘and go into Damascus. There you will be told all that you have been assigned to do.’ [12] “A man named Ananias came to see me. He was a devout observer of the law and highly respected by all the Jews living there. [14] “Then he said: ‘The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth. [15] You will be his witness to all people of what you have seen and heard. [16] And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.’
Acts 22:21-22 NIV
“Then the Lord said to me, ‘Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.’ ” [22] The crowd listened to Paul until he said this. Then they raised their voices and shouted, “Rid the earth of him! He’s not fit to live!”
** Most people who are living opposed to God's ways will not like what we have to say when we speak His truth; some may overtly try to stop you!
Matthew 14:3-5 NIV
Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, [4] for John had been saying to him: “It is not lawful for you to have her.” [5] Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered John a prophet.
** Jesus warns of following leader commands but not to follow their example; Jesus was referring to current day leaders for they did not practice what they preached; not much has changed in 2000 years
Matthew 23:1-4 NIV
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: [2] “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. [3] So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. [4] They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.
** 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.”
** Watch out for some leaders are in it for the power and prestige; observe their actions and preferences in order to interpret their motive
Matthew 23:5-7 NIV
“Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; [6] they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; [7] they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.
** Seems there are always nations-peoples-rulers wanting to overthrow God's authority; God laughs at their feeble attempts and crafty devices; they are never successful
Psalm 2:1-4 NIV
Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? [2] The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed, saying, [3] “Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.” [4] The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them.
** In His anger and wrath, the Lord rebukes those who attempt to usurp Him and His people (Israel); one day everyone will recognize our holy God and those will suffer for going against Him
Psalm 2:5 NIV
He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath
** Many tried to discredit the truth and power of God in order to continue to prop themselves up; inconsistency in testimony = if guards were awake, why let the disciples take the body, if asleep, how do you know they took it?
Matthew 28:11-15 NIV
[11] While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. [12] When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, [13] telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ [14] If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” [15] So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.
** Pilate shirked his duty as leader and played to the public's interest even though he knew the chief priests were influencing the crowds out of self-interest
Matthew 27:18-21 NIV
[18] For he knew it was out of self-interest that they had handed Jesus over to him. [19] While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.” [20] But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus executed. [21] “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor. “Barabbas,” they answered.
Matthew 27:24 NIV
[24] When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “It is your responsibility!”
E7.
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