Christian Foundations

Turning Away From God

2011-10-11T10:43:00.001-07:00

"I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel --" (Galatians 1:6 NIV)

Paul quickly moves from his salutation into the heart of his message. He begins the body of the letter by stating that he is utterly astonished by the Galatians. They had quickly moved from the true Gospel that Paul had preached towards the counterfeit gospel of the false teachers that had come among them.

The time between the conversion of the Galatians and this letter would be less than four years. Paul is surprised that in such a short time period they had gone from a ready acceptance of the truth toward error. In the original, the verb may indicate that they were in the process of deserting but had not yet fully turned away. This makes sense and explains the urgency of this letter. Paul wanted to arrest the drift into error before it was completed. Still today, it is amazing how quickly people can move from truth to error.

In accepting the false teaching, Paul does not say they had turned away from the gospel or that they had turned away from grace. He says that they had turned away from God! When we realize the full implications of accepting a counterfeit gospel, we understand why this letter is so blunt and cutting. To forsake the truth of the gospel is to forsake God Himself.

Essentials of Salvation

2011-08-31T02:50:00.000-07:00

Paul continues his salutation with a subtle defense of the Gospel. He mentions six elements that are essential to salvation. He continues, "who raised him from the dead), and all the brethren who are with me, to the churches of Galatia: Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen" (Galatians 1:1b-5, NKJ)

The first of these elements is the resurrection of Christ. Paul states that God the Father raised Jesus from the dead. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul argues that without the resurrection of Christ there is no good news, no Gospel. Jesus rose from the dead. This assures us that we will too. Paul's Gospel focuses upon what God has done. His enemies focused upon what man should do.

The second element is grace. Grace is God's merciful kindness towards us even though we do not deserve it. Paul's enemies through their legalism were trying to earn God's kindness. This puts a great burden upon man. Grace removes this burden. We do not have to earn God's favor.

Paul next mentions peace. Through salvation, we have peace with God and peace from God. We were enemies of God. Once we trusted in Christ, our relationship with Christ changes. We had peace with God. We do not have to keep track of a list of dos and don'ts. We can be at peace and we can rest in our relationship with God.

The fourth element of the Gospel mentioned in this passage is the sacrifice of Christ. Paul says that Jesus gave Himself for our sins. Jesus was the one supreme blood sacrifice that ended the need for any more such sacrifices. The law with its sacrificial system is no longer needed.

Not only is Jesus our sacrifice, he is also our deliverer. He has delivered us from this present evil age. This does not mean that he had taken us out of this age. It means that we are no longer part of this age. We think in different terms. We act in different ways. Our worldview is completely different. Those of this age think and live for themselves. Christians are to live for God. Legalism puts us back into the old worldview from which we were rescued. It makes us think about ourselves rather than God.

The final element mentioned by Paul is the plan of God. God planned out, according to his will, how he would provide a means of escape for those who would be condemned and in sin. He revealed parts of this plan to man through the prophets. This plan was further revealed and fulfilled by Jesus, the Son of God. The Gospel of Paul is not a new revelation. What Paul taught was an extension of God's revelation in the Old Testament and in the life of Jesus. This is an important point for Paul to make. His enemies accused him of seeking to destroy the Jewish faith. Paul's response was that the Gospel of Grace was a mature system of belief that grew out of an incomplete temporary system based upon the Law. Grace made the law obsolete.

The main lesson to learn from this passage is summed up in verse five. Grace brings God glory. Grace makes us focus upon God. Legalism takes our eyes off of God and focuses them upon man and his actions. Let us give God glory, and praise him because he cares for us even though we do not and cannot deserve it.

Paul, An Apostle

2011-07-19T05:49:00.000-07:00

"Paul, an apostle -- sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, . . ." (Galatians 1:1a - NIV)

Paul begins his letter to the Galatians, as he begins all his letters, with his name. The only exception to this would be Hebrews, if the view that Paul wrote it is taken. In New Testament times, a letter would normally begin by stating the author and then the person or persons to whom it was written. This pattern is followed in most of the New Testament letters. This is what we call the salutation.

In the case of his letter to the Galatians, Paul uses his salutation to present evidence for his position. Within the first five verses, Paul already starts defending his apostleship and his Gospel. Two of his three purposes for this letter are immediately introduced.

Those attacking the Gospel of Grace were also attacking Paul's apostleship. Paul does not waste anytime declaring that he is an apostle and that his appointment to this office is divine.

Apostle is a transliteration of a Greek word. This word means a delegate, messenger, one sent forth with orders. It refers to a person sent with a special message from a higher authority. This word is used 81 times in the New Testament. In the King James Version, 78 times, it is translated apostle. Twice it is translated messenger (II Corinthians 8:23, Philippians 2:25) and once it is translated "he that is sent" (John 13:16).

Jesus called his twelve disciples: apostles (Luke 6:13). Their special message was the Gospel. They were sent with the authority of Jesus himself.

Judas was one of the twelve. He, by his betrayal of Jesus, gave up his apostleship. Soon after the ascension of Jesus, Matthias was selected to take the place of Judas (Acts 1:24-26). To understand the attack on Paul's apostleship, it is important to know the qualifications required by the original apostles for Judas' replacement. The replacement had to be someone who had been with Jesus from the baptism of John until the ascension of Christ. He had to be a witness of the resurrection of Christ (Acts 1:21, 22).

Paul had not been with Jesus during his ministry. We do not even know if Paul ever saw Jesus before Jesus confronted him on the road to Damascus. This is the very point at which the attacks on Paul's apostleship would focus. The argument was that because Paul, unlike the twelve, had not been with Jesus, he was at the very most an inferior apostle, or not an apostle at all.

Paul begins his defense of his apostleship by stating that he did not receive his office from men or through man. He did not make himself an apostle. His authority did not come from man or any group of men. He had been made an apostle by the authority of Christ and God the Father.

The implication is that Paul's authority was as great as that of the twelve. Jesus named them apostles. Jesus named Paul an apostle. If Paul was not a real apostle, then the twelve were not real apostles because the source of their authority was the same. To argue that Paul did not have the qualifications of an apostle was to argue with Jesus about who he could select to represent him No man has that right. Paul's defense of his apostleship continues later in this chapter.

Besides the twelve and Paul, there are others in the New Testament called apostles. Among these are James, Barnabas, Andronicus, Junia, Epaphroditus and those chosen by the churches to collect the offering for the saints in Jerusalem. A good argument could be made for including James in the same class as Paul and the twelve. However, the others are not in the same class. Barnabas could be considered an apostle of the church at Antioch. The others were, most likely, in a similar position, apostles of a church or a group of churches. They were apostles of men.

The basic meaning of the word apostle is one sent with a special message. According to this definition, we have apostles today. Missionaries are people sent with the message of the Gospel. Missionaries are apostles. Again, they are not apostles in the same class as the twelve. They are apostles of man, but they are apostles.

Galatians: Purpose

2011-07-11T16:06:00.000-07:00

Paul wrote this letter with three main objectives: defend the Gospel of Grace, defend his apostleship and explain the objective of the Law of Moses. His opponents were attacking both his message and his authority. They also misunderstood the purpose of the Old Testament Law.

This letter is sharp and cutting. Paul is blunt and brief. There is no beating around the bush, and little in the way of extra information. Paul tells us more about himself in this letter than in any of his other letters with the exception of First Corinthians.

As we study this letter over 1950 years after it was written, you may wonder what you can learn from it. While this letter argues against salvation by works, which is still a common teaching today. It provides balance between the abuse of freedom and the severity of legalism. It tells us how to win the spiritual battles that we face.

Galatians: Introduction

2011-06-29T02:58:00.000-07:00

This post begins a study through the book of Galatians. Galatians is a great letter with some powerful lessons. To begin, I will give you some background on the letter.

Galatia was a Roman province in Asia Minor, which is now the modern nation of Turkey. Paul and Barnabas established churches in this area on their first missionary journey. Soon after they left, their teaching came under attack.

Some Jews, who claimed to be Christian, from Jerusalem visited these churches. They said that they had the authority of the Apostles behind them. These false teachers taught that Paul was an inferior Apostle. They also taught that the law of Moses must be obeyed by Christians in order to be saved.

Paul was in Antioch when he heard about this. He wrote this letter in response around 49 AD.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Self-Control

2011-06-18T08:20:00.000-07:00

The spiritual discipline of Fasting will help us have more self-control. Traditionally, fasting is going without food for an extended period of time. Usually it is linked to prayer and seeking God.
There are many New Testament examples of fasting. Matthew 4:2 tells us that Jesus fasted for 40 days at the beginning of his ministry. Although, many have fasted for this long a period, most do not. Especially if you have never fasted before, start out with a shorter period, maybe a couple days.

In the Sermon on the Mount, (Matthew 6:16-18) Jesus warns against making a big show of fasting. It is not a badge of spirituality to be displayed for others to see. It should be kept as private as possible.

We know (Matthew 9:14, 15) that the disciples of Jesus did not fast while he was with them. However, Jesus suggests that after he was gone, his followers would fast.

Acts 13:1-3 tells us that the church at Antioch was having a time of common fasting. It is not clear if the entire church family or only the leaders were fasting, but this is an example of a group of believers fasting at the same time. Now, we are not told what lead them to do this, but we are told the result. During this time, the Holy Spirit revealed that Paul and Barnabas were to be sent on their first missionary journey. The group fasted and prayed together before sending these men out.

There are many other examples, but I will only list one more. In Acts 14:23, we are told that part of the process followed by Paul and Barnabas as they appointed leaders in the churches of Galatia was to pray and fast.

Let me give you some simple advice about fasting. If you have any health problems, ask your doctor before fasting. Drink plenty of fluids, including plain water. Juice and sports drinks are good but not too much. If you start to feel ill, break your fast. When you do break your fast, slowly bring your diet back to normal. Eating too much immediately after a fast can be shock to your system.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Self-Control?

2011-06-05T05:34:00.000-07:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

This is the last of the nine elements in the fruit of the Spirit.

Dictionary Definition: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions or desires

In Acts 24:24-26, the Apostle Paul is talking to Felix about faith in Christ. He explained what this meant. We are told that he spoke on three topics: righteousness, self-control and judgment. So, for Paul, self-control is an essential part of the Christian message.

Titus 1:3-9 lists requirements for church leadership. One of these is self-control.

The Apostle Peter in 2 Peter 1:5-9 gives us building blocks for the Christian life. He says that self-control is built upon knowledge. Perseverance or patience is built upon self-control. Peter teaches us that self-control is one requirement to being effective and productive as a believer.

Paul compares the Christian walk to being an athlete in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. In verse 25, the phrase "goes into strict training" could be translated "practices self-control." For an athlete to be successful, he or she must control themselves. Many of the actions required to be a champion go against a person's natural impulses, emotions and desires. Paul says that he did the same in order to win the prize that Christ had for him.

Self-control is essential for a Christian who wants to faithfully serve the Lord.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Gentleness

2011-05-26T02:58:00.000-07:00

The spiritual discipline of Confession will help us to be gentle with others. In Galatians 6:1, gentleness is mentioned along with an awareness of our own weakness. We will be less inclined to being harsh and stern with others when we see our own sin.

Jesus, in Matthew 7:3-5, painted a word picture of a man with a log stuck in his eye trying to help another person get a piece of sawdust out of his. Jesus was warning us to look at own sin, before we try to help others with theirs.

James 5:16 tells us to confess our sins to one another. Now, confession does not have to be public. It does not have to be to a member of the clergy. It does not have to be expressed to anyone but God. However, sometimes confession before others is not only helpful but necessary for our spiritual health. Confessing our sin before even one other person who can pray for us and hold us accountable can make a big difference in overcoming sin.

The Apostle John, in I John 1:8-10, makes it clear that we all sin. God will forgive us if we confess our sin. Why? Because he is faithful and just, even if we are not. Every believer should memorize I John 1:9 and remind themselves of this often.

So what is involved in true confession? Some common steps of this discipline include: asking the Holy Spirit to examine our life; honestly naming our sin; considering the why and the consequences; being genuinely remorseful; promising to turn from the sin and asking forgiveness.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Gentleness?

2011-05-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

Dictionary Definition: the quality or state of being kind, amiable, free from harshness, sternness or violence; mild of manner and disposition.

The Greek word translated gentleness has no direct English term that expresses the same idea. Some have described it as strength under control. It is the opposite of being self-assertive.

In Matthew 11:29, Jesus said that he was gentle and humble in heart. He is not a harsh or abusive task master. Those who work for him, put on his yoke, will find true rest for their souls.

In I Corinthians 4:21, Paul contrasts being gentle and loving with using a whip.

Galatians 6:1 teaches that we should be gentle in dealing with those caught in sin. Our purpose is to restore them not punish them. At the same time, we should humbly recognize our own weakness.

Gentleness is teamed up with humility, patience and love in Ephesians 4:2.

In describing what God's people should be like in Colossians 3:12, 13, Paul lists gentleness along with compassion, kindness, patience and forgiveness.

Paul instructs Timothy in I Timothy 6:11 to pursue gentleness along with righteousness, godliness, faith, love and endurance.

So this gentleness is a basic Christian trait. Jesus said he was gentle. It is often listed with other common Christian attributes, most often with humility and love. It is putting others first out of love, coming along side them and with kindness assisting them in their Christian journey.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Faithfulness

2011-04-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

"Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." (Romans 10:17) In order to have faith, we need to know about God and what he has said, his message. To be faithful, we need to know what God requires of us, and what he desires. To have faith and faithfulness, we must know the Word. We need to practice the spiritual discipline of Bible Study.

Galatians 3:6-9 tells us that Abraham, the father of those who have faith, believed God. In order to believe God, we need to know what God has said. We need to learn the Bible.

II Timothy 3:14-17 links Scripture with wisdom, salvation and faith. Scripture teaches us what is true. It tells us what is wrong. It instructs us on how to change. It trains us in how to please God by doing what is right.

Bible study is not just reading the Bible. It is focusing in depth upon a specific part of Scripture: a person, a topic, a passage. The purpose of Bible Study is application. The question that should always be in the back of your mind when you study Scripture is: What does God want me to do because of this truth?

There are many good books on Bible Study. One that I can recommend because I have found it useful personally is Personal Bible Study Methods by Rick Warren.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Faithfulness?

2011-04-10T09:56:00.000-07:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

Dictionary Definition: steadfast in affection or allegiance; loyal; firm in adherence to promises or in observance of duty; true to the facts.

The Greek word used for this element of the fruit of the Spirit is translated, in the New Testament, faithfulness and faith.

"What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness?" (Romans 3:3) The same root word is used twice in this verse. The first is the negative form of the word which means disbelieve or lack of faith. The second use is in reference to God and refers to his faithfulness.

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1) The word here is the exact same word as used for the fruit of the Spirit. This is the Biblical description of faith: knowing that what God has promised will happen, that is Jesus will return, and being certain that God exists.

Hebrews chapter 11 is the Hall of Faith. It lists individuals who had faith and were faithful.

"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." (I Corinthians 4:2) God has given us much. We are to be faithful in how we use it.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Goodness

2011-04-01T02:27:00.000-07:00

The disciple of serving is doing good for others in a practical way. On a regular basis, we should become a servant to others. Our example is Jesus.

Philippians 2:6-11 tells us that Jesus' life was a life of service. Part of this passages states, "but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness." He constantly gave of himself for the benefit of others. He even gave his life for us.

John 13:3-17 gives an example of the servant nature of Jesus. This passage relates how Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. Jesus was willing to do the lowliest of task to serve others. That is the example that he set. In serving, we should seek out the mundane, the lowly, the difficult, the hidden, the unrecognized tasks.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Goodness?

2011-03-22T15:49:00.000-07:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

Dictionary Definition: the quality or state of being virtuous, just, commendable, kind, benevolent

Goodness and kindness are very similar elements of the Fruit of the Spirit.

Matthew chapter 19 verses 16 to 22 illustrates two aspects of goodness: the moral and the benevolent. This is one difference between goodness and kindness. Kindness does not have an integral moral element. Jesus was trying to make it clear to this man that he was not as good a person as he thought he was. This man thought he could earn eternal life by being good; which is not true. Salvation, forgiveness, eternal life is a gift of God received by faith.

Matthew chapter 20 verses 1 to 16 also sheds light on the question of what is goodness. In verse 15, the Greek word translated generous in the New International Version comes from the same root word as goodness. The phrase could have been translated "because I am good." The Bible links being generous with goodness.

In Matthew chapter 25 verses 14 to 30, Jesus tells the parable of the Talents. In this parable, the good servants are the ones who are good stewards. They took what their master gave them and used it for his benefit. So another consideration for us in regards to goodness is to consider how we are using all that God has given us for his benefit as good stewards.

So goodness encompasses being morally good, being benevolent, being generous, and using all we have and are for God's glory.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Kindness

2011-03-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, "Be careful not to do your acts of righteousness before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 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 men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." (Matthew 6:1-4)

Jesus tells us to do good without anyone knowing that we have done good. This will help us to have the right motive. We cannot be praised by people for doing good if they do not know about it. Instead, we will be doing it for God and out of a desire to really help someone in need.

This has been called the discipline of secrecy. John Ortberg describes this discipline this way, "Every once in a while do something good and try to make sure no one finds out about it."

This will help us to grow in kindness.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Kindness?

2011-03-03T02:55:00.000-08:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

Dictionary Definition: the quality or state of being affectionate, loving, of a sympathetic nature, disposed to be helpful, of a forbearing nature, gentle, agreeable

In Luke 6:35, Jesus said, "... you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." In context, Jesus is describing doing good for others without expecting anything in return. He tells us that God is kind, because this is what he does.

The Apostle Paul wrote, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32). In this verse, kindness is connected to compassion and forgiveness.

Titus 3:4, 5 tells us that God saved us because of his kindness and his love. We do not deserve to be forgiven. We did not earn our home in heaven. God is kind. Kindness is helping others when they do not deserve it.

A Biblical example of kindness is Joseph. His story starts in Genesis 37 and continues until the end of the book. In particular, Genesis 45:1-7 shows his kindness. He did not seek revenge on his brothers for selling him into slavery. Instead, he saved them from the famine.

Another example of kindness is David. We read in II Samuel 9 about Mephibosheth. Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathon and the grandson of King Saul. The normal action in any other kingdom would be to have him killed, lest he try to claim his grandfather's throne from David. But David treated Mephibosheth with kindness, not because of anything that this young man had done, but because David had been friends with his father, Jonathan.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Patience

2011-02-25T13:36:00.000-08:00

James 1:2,3 states, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." So James tells us that the way to become patient is to have our faith tested, to face difficulties of various types. This may not be a traditional Christian Discipline, but to have more patience, we need to practice the spiritual discipline of risk taking.

Matthew 14:25-33 records an event that tested the faith of Peter. He walked on water with Jesus. He did not fully past this test, but neither did he fully fail. If it is certain that we will pass the test, then there is no risk. Those who stayed in the boat did not even take the test. Patience was a hard lesson for Peter, but this event was part of his learning. He took a risk at the command of Jesus.

By the discipline of risk taking, I am not referring to just any type of risk taking. I do not mean that we can learn patience by jumping out of a plane, or rock climbing, or white water rafting. I mean taking risks for the sake of God's kingdom in order to have our faith tested.

This is intentionally putting ourselves outside our comfort zone for the Lord. For it to be a discipline means that we do it on a regular basis. Now, the frequency and the level of risk involved should relate back to how much patience we need to learn.

We also need to recognize that what is a risk for one person is not for another. Different things make different people uncomfortable. Some examples of this type of risk taking: helping in a homeless shelter or soup kitchen, prison ministry, nursing home ministry, other ministries to those on the edge of society (single moms, addicts, HIV infected, orphans, widows, prostitutes, etc. The kind of people that Jesus befriended.), going door to door inviting people to church, open air ministry, short-term mission trips, tent maker ministry, or joining a disaster relief team.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Patience?

2011-02-22T16:06:00.000-08:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

Dictionary Definition: the capacity, habit or fact of bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint; manifesting forbearance under provocation or strain; not hasty or impetuous; steadfast despite opposition, difficulty or adversity.

Compared to love, joy and peace, patience is hardly mentioned in the Bible at all. The following verses do give us insight into this virtue.

"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes." (Psalm 37:7) We are to be patient while waiting for the Lord to act. We are not to become worried or upset because evil men are not punished. God will act in his own time.

Proverbs 14:29 tells us that a patient person is wise. It also says that a quick-tempered man is foolish. Proverbs 19:11 gives an example of patience. Someone can offend a patient man without getting a negative reaction.

The Apostle Paul tells us that Jesus had unlimited patience (I Timothy 1:15,16). His proof is that Jesus forgave him, the worst of sinners. Jesus demonstrated patience when he bore the pain of the cross calmly without complaint. He still shows forbearance towards people. Although they keep rejecting him, he keeps seeking them.

James 5:10 sets before us the prophets as examples of patience. In the face of suffering, they remained true to their calling.

The Scripture contains many examples of patience. Abraham waited many years before God keep his promise to give him a son. Noah worked many years in the face of ridicule while building the ark. Joseph, sold into slavery and then put in prison, remained faithful to God and waited for deliverance. David, while hiding in the wilderness from King Saul, would not take matters into his own hands but waited on the Lord to act.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Peace

2011-02-19T11:16:00.000-08:00

Let us consider an Old Testament example of someone who was not at peace. Read I Kings 19:1-18. Elijah was afraid for his life. He was worn out and depressed. Elijah went into the wilderness and met with God. Then he was able to return and continue to serve God.

The discipline of solitude will help us grow in peace. Solitude is the practice of finding a place where we can be alone with God for an extended period of time, at least several hours or, if possible, several days.

A couple examples from Scripture: Jacob sent his family away so that he could spend a night alone with God. He wrestled with the Lord all night long. Read Genesis 32:2-32.

Jesus often spent time alone with God the Father. "When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place." (Matthew 14:13a) "After he had dismissed the them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone." (Matthew 14:23) "One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God." (Luke 6:12)

Solitude allows us to get away from distractions, disturbances and the business of life. By putting ourselves in a peaceful setting, and diligently seeking the Lord of peace, we can find peace.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Peace?

2011-02-15T15:40:00.000-08:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

Dictionary Definition: a state of tranquility, quiet and harmony; a state free of oppressive and unpleasant thoughts and emotions; harmony in personal relations; a state free of war, in particular war between different counties.

Job 3:26 tells us what peace is, by describing what it is not. It says, "I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil."

Peace comes for the Lord. "The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace." (Psalm 29:11)

Peace is valuable. "Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife." (Proverbs 17:1)

The peace that Jesus gives is not like that which comes from the world. It is certain. We do not need to be troubled or afraid. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27)

The Spirit of God gives us peace of mind. "The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace." (Romans 8:6)

The peace that come from God is beyond our understanding. We can have peace of mind and heart in the midst of turmoil and trouble. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6, 7)

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Joy

2011-02-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

What spiritual discipline can help us have more joy?

Consider, Psalm 16:11, "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." God's presence fills us with joy!

Psalm 64:10 tells us that the righteous rejoice in the Lord. The righteous praise him.

After the ascension of Jesus as recorded in Luke 24:50-53, the disciples worshipped Jesus. They had great joy. They constantly praised God.

Throughout the Psalms, worship and joy are linked. We read that Paul and Silas sang hymns in prison. If you lack joy in your life, a good place to start growing in joy is with worship.

I do not mean attending a Worship Service, although that can be part of this. I mean setting aside time on a regular basis, even daily, to praise God, to thank him for his blessings, to sing joyfully to the Lord. This will help is to focus less on our present circumstance and more on eternity. This will increase our joy. This will make us happy. This will give us extreme cheerfulness.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Joy?

2011-02-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

Dictionary Definition: The feeling of happiness, extreme cheerfulness

Happiness is usually tied to circumstance. The joy that the Spirit gives is not. James tells us to have joy when we face trials because the testing of our faith will produce perseverance. (James 1:2,3) But these times of testing are often not happy times.

Hebrews 10:34 describes believers who joyfully suffered the loss of their possessions because they had better possessions waiting them in eternity. Hebrews 12:2 tells us that Jesus faced the cross with joy because of what his sacrifice would accomplish.

So we are to have joy regardless of present circumstances. Now sometimes our circumstances will make it difficult for us to express our joy as happiness and extreme cheerfulness.

However, too often we say we have joy, deep down in our hearts where it will never reach our faces, when the truth is that we are lying. We have no joy and therefore no happiness. The joy of the Spirit does not mean that we will be always laughing and smiling, but it means that we will be more often than not. If we never laugh, never smile, never express happiness and even extreme cheerfulness then we have no joy.

Consider Acts 5:40, 41. We see that rejoicing means expressing joy, showing happiness.

The Greek word translated “blessed” in some versions is translated “happy” in others. Consider the beatitudes in that light. They are recorded in Matthew 5:3-12. Mediate on them but replaced "Blessed are" with "Happy are."

The joy of the spirit is happiness that looks beyond present circumstance to our final condition.

Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Love

2011-01-31T16:46:00.001-08:00

Knowing what the elements of the Fruit of the Spirit are is not enough. We need to nurture them and grow in them. We need to do our part by practicing spiritual disciplines that we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us.

Jesus said, "You have heard that is was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Matthew 5:43-48)

Notice that Jesus connects loving our enemies and those who persecute us with prayer in verse 44. I would suggest that one spiritual practice that will help us love is prayer. If you lack true love as described in I Corinthians 13 or if you have hateful feelings for someone, pray. Pray for those whom you need to love more. Pray for those who you do not love at all.

Fruit of the Spirit: What is Love?

2011-01-28T03:15:00.000-08:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23)

The Bible has a detailed description of love. It is in First Corinthians chapter 13 verses 4 to 8. This passages describes true love. This love is an element in the Fruit of the Spirit.

Love:

is patient: not short-tempered, patient with people, shows self-restraint
is kind: good, reacts with goodness to ill treatment
does not envy: does not have strong jealousy for what others have, not displeased when others succeed
does not boast: not a “wind-bag”
is not proud: does not assert itself
is not rude: what is according to proper form, not disgraceful, not dishonorable, not indecent
is not self-seeking: does not seek its own way or insist on its own way, not selfish, not self-centered
is not easily angered: not touchy, no selfish concern for one's rights,
keeps no record of wrongs: does not keep accounts, notes or records to hold it against someone
does not delight in evil: it is human nature to take pleasure in others misfortune, love does not
rejoices with the truth: love is not immune to morality, it wants truth to prevail
always protects: covers, endures, does not easily give way
always trusts: sees the best in others, gives the benefit of the doubt
always hopes: refuses to accept failure as final; believes in ultimate victory
always perseveres: not overwhelmed, continues in spite of difficulty
never fails: does not collapse or suffer ruin, love is permanent

Being Frutiful

2011-01-24T16:23:00.000-08:00

The three requirements from my last post for being fruitful are found in other passages of Scripture as well. Hebrews 12:1 tells us to throw off everything that hinders us. This is pruning. Hebrews 12:2 tells us to fix our eyes on Jesus. This speaks of relationship. Hebrews 12:3 says that we should not grow weary and lose heart. The idea is that we should keep obeying the Lord and serving him.

Why did Paul and Jesus use fruit as an analogy?

Crops such as wheat are ready after a few months. A fruit tree may require years of care before it produces any fruit. Results come slowly. There is no quick way to grow spiritual fruit.

Also, fruit depends upon the quality of the tree, the natural elements of sun and rain, and the care of the farmer. Spiritual fruit depends upon the work of the Holy Spirit and our response to His work.

How To Be Fruitful

2011-01-20T03:33:00.000-08:00

With this post, I will be starting a study on the Fruit of the Spirit. Before we start looking at what elements make up the Fruit of the Spirit, I want us first to consider the topic of being fruitful. It is not enough to know about the Fruit of the Spirit. We want to produce the Fruit of the Spirit. We want to produce an abundance of this Fruit.

I want us to consider what Jesus said about producing spiritual fruit. He gave us some requirements for being fruitful. Then I want to show you how these concepts are echoed in other parts of the New Testament. This will give us a foundation for the lessons to come. I want us to not only understand the Fruit of the Spirit, but also to produce this Fruit in our lives.

In John chapter 15, Jesus speaks about the vine and the branches. In this passage, he gives us three requirements for spiritual fruit. The first is pruning (John 15:1-3). By cutting off what is not required, a branch can become more fruitful.

The second requirement for spiritual fruit is relationship (John 15:4-8). The branch and the vine must be connected. Since Jesus is the vine, we must be connected with him. The closer we are to Jesus, the more spiritual fruit we will produce.

The third requirement is obedience (John 15:9-17). Jesus steps out of the metaphor and discusses love and obedience. However, in verse 16, he mentions that our purpose is to bear fruit. If we are not obeying God, we cannot produce good fruit.

I Thessalonians 5:27, 18

2011-01-17T02:38:00.000-08:00

"I call upon you by the Lord, to read this letter to all the brothers." (I Thessalonians 5:27)

Paul wanted to be sure that the entire church heard this letter. The language used in this verse is strong which may again hint at divisions in the church. Paul may have been concerned that one group would not share this letter with the other.

"The favor of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you." (I Thessalonians 5:28)

Paul ends this letter with a prayer that Jesus would bestow his favor upon this group of Christians.

I Thessalonians 5:24-26

2011-01-13T16:32:00.000-08:00

"The One who called you is faithful. He will do this." (I Thessalonians 5:24)

Our eventual consecration and purity does not depend upon our goodness. Without God, we have none. It depends upon the faithfulness of God who promised to cleanse us of our iniquities.

"Brothers, pray for us." (I Thessalonians 5:25)

Paul desired the prayers of others on his behalf. He believed in the power of prayer.

"Welcome all the brothers with a pure kiss." (I Thessalonians 5:26)

This was a common way to greet one another. It still is in some parts of the world.

I Thessalonians 5:21-23

2011-01-09T05:39:00.000-08:00

"But test everything, hold tight to what is beautiful." (I Thessalonians 5:21)

We should put all teaching to the test of the Word of God. If it does not agree with the Word, we should reject it. Anything that has spiritual beauty, we should hug tightly. Do not let truly good things get away.

"Abstain from every form of evil." (I Thessalonians 5:22)

We are to keep ourselves pure. Our goal should be to keep from all evil.

"May the God of Peace Himself consecrate you in all respects and keep you faultless in spirit, soul and body, and blameless in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 5:23)

Paul was concerned that these believers would stand before the Lord and not be ashamed. May we stand before the Lord faultless and blameless. May we hear, "Well done!"

I Thessalonians 5:18-20

2011-01-06T02:25:00.001-08:00

"In everything give thanks, for this is what God wishes in Christ Jesus for you all." (I Thessalonians 5:18)

God wants us to be thankful regardless of circumstances. For no matter what this life holds, in Christ we have great spiritual and eternal blessings. We can be thankful as well knowing that God can use tragic events to bring about good.

"Do not extinguish the Spirit." (I Thessalonians 5:19)

There are three ways to put out a fire. We can pour water on it. (We can pour fear and doubt upon the Spirit's leading.) We can cover a fire with an incombustible substance. (We can fill our lives with things that are nonspiritual.) You can stop a fire by not supplying any more fuel. (We can stop praying, reading the Word and doing other spiritual disciplines.)

"Do not despise preaching." (I Thessalonians 5:20)

The word for despise can mean to treat with contempt, mock, utterly despise or make of no account. We should never discount the power of the preaching of the Word. It is powerful.

I Thessalonians 5:15-17

2011-01-03T03:38:00.000-08:00

"You watch that no one gives back bad on account of bad, but always pursue good for one another and all men." (I Thessalonians 5:15)

We are not to pay people back when they treat us badly. Rather we are always to seek what is good: for other Christians and for all people. We are to return good for evil.

"Always rejoice." (I Thessalonians 5:16)

No matter what our circumstances, we should be able to rejoice because of our relationship with the Lord.

"Pray without intermission." (I Thessalonians 5:17)

Albert Barnes wrote, "There has been evil done to the soul if it is not prepared for communion with God at all times, and if it would not find pleasure in approaching his holy throne." We should be ready and be quick to prayer all the time.

I Thessalonians 5:13, 14

2011-01-01T07:11:00.000-08:00

"And esteem them beyond all measure with sacrificial love because of their work. Be a peace among yourselves." (I Thessalonians 5:13)

Because of their work in the ministry, church leaders should be given an overabundance of sacrificial love. Many Christian leaders receive an overabundance of something quite different! Paul's command regarding peace in this context hints at some minor conflict.

"And I admonish you all, brothers, warn the disorderly, gently influence the fainthearted, hold up the weak, be patient with everyone." (I Thessalonians 5:14)

Paul makes it clear that we are to be wise with how we minister to people. There may have been a problem in this respect among the leaders in this church. We should not deal with everyone the same. A person who is deliberately being a problem needs a firm warning. A person with a timid spirit needs gentle encouragement. A person who is weak in the faith needs to be supported. And we are to be patient with every person.

I Thessalonians 5:11, 12

2010-12-30T09:03:00.000-08:00

"Therefore you all comfort one another and build up each other, as you are doing." (I Thessalonians 5:11)

These are meant to be words of encouragement and comfort as these believers faced persecution and trouble. We should comfort and build up each other.

"Now I ask you all, brothers, remember those laboring strenuously in the Lord, who superintend you in the Lord and who warn you." (I Thessalonians 5:12)

Paul's instruction in this and the following verses suggests that there was some minor conflict between leadership of the church and the members. This is not unusual. Paul described those leading the believers as laboring strenuously. The work of the ministry can be physically, emotionally and spiritually demanding. The leaders are not dictators but superintendents who are to help organize the body in doing the Lord's work. Also spiritual leadership requires warning people of the danger of sin.

I Thessalonians 5:8-10

2010-12-28T07:27:00.000-08:00

"But we of the day being in control of ourselves, put on the breastplate of faith and sacrificial love, and the helmet of salvation's hope." (I Thessalonians 5:8)

Part of being in control of self spiritually is putting on God's armor. We are protected from spiritual attack by our trust in God and our love for others. We have a certain hope because God has saved us.

"Because God has not placed us under wrath, but under salvation's preservation through our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 5:9)

Because Jesus has saved us, we cannot experience the wrath of God.

"He was killed for us that if we watch or if we fall asleep together in him, we will live." (I Thessalonians 5:10)

Jesus died in our place. If we survive until his return, we will live. If we die in him, we will live.

I Thessalonians 5:6, 7

2010-12-15T06:14:00.000-08:00

"Therefore let us not fall asleep like everyone else, but let us watch and be in control of ourselves." (I Thessalonians 5:6)

People sleep at night. The rest of the world is at sleep spiritually. They are unaware. Christians should be watching the unfolding of world events. We should be in control of ourselves and not under the influence of worldly desires.

"For the ones who fall asleep, fall asleep at night. The ones getting drunk, get drunk at night." (I Thessalonians 5:7)

Night is the time for sleep. It is also when people normally party and get drunk. Those who are spiritually are in darkness are sleeping spiritually and are controlled, are drunk, with sin.

I Thessalonians 5:3-5

2010-12-11T12:04:00.000-08:00

"When they are saying, Peace and security, then unexpected ruin will fall on them, just like the birth pains of one having a child. And escape will be impossible." (I Thessalonians 5:3)

When the world thinks that war is at an end, and there is security then the end will come. They will be demolished and it will be impossible for those without Christ to escape.

"But you, brothers, are not in darkness that the day surprise you like a thief." (I Thessalonians 5:4)

Christians should not be surprised by the Day of the Lord. We know it is coming. And as it gets closer, the signs will become more and more clear to us.

"For in every way, you all are sons of the light and sons of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness." (I Thessalonians 5:5)

Paul contrasts those in the light with those in the dark. Christians are in the light; they have the revelation of God and the insight of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Those without Christ are in darkness. They do not understand clearly the flow of history, nor do they expect what is coming.

I Thessalonians 5:1, 2

2010-12-08T16:21:00.001-08:00

"Now concerning the times and the intervals, brothers, you do not need me to write." (I Thessalonians 5:1)

Paul had already taught them about the return of Jesus, the signs of his return and the danger of trying to fix a date when it would occur.

"For you all clearly remember that the Day of the Lord comes like a thief at night." (I Thessalonians 5:2)

The Day of the Lord is a Biblical expression for the last days. It includes the return of Christ, the Tribulation and the reign of Christ. Like a thief at night means without warning. A thief does not tell us when he is coming. It does not mean that it will be secret when it happens, just that it will be unexpected before it happens.

I Thessalonians 4:17,18

2010-12-05T04:43:00.000-08:00

"Then we, who are alive and have survived, will be snatched away with them in clouds to a meeting with the Lord in the air." (I Thessalonians 4:17)

After the resurrection of the righteous dead, the living believers will be quickly snatched by the Lord to meet him in the air. The word for snatched is a violent word sometimes translated seized. It is a quick and sudden action.

"Therefore you all comfort one another with these words." (I Thessalonians 4:18)

Our hope in the resurrection softens our grief when a believer dies.

I Thessalonians 4:15-16

2010-11-25T15:02:00.000-08:00

"For this I say to you, by divine inspiration, we who are alive having survived until the Lord's arrival will absolutely not be ahead of those who go to sleep." (I Thessalonians 4:15)

Paul uses the phrase "in word of Lord" to indicate that he was speaking by inspiration. He was not quoting something that Jesus had said, but writing under the authority of Jesus. Paul describes those who are still alive at the return of Jesus as those who remain or survive. This could be taken to imply that not many Christians will remain at this time. Paul uses a double negative for emphasis. Those who are alive will not have an advantage when the rapture occurs.

"Because the Lord himself, with a loud cry, with the voice of a chief angel and with a trumpet of God, will descend from heaven and the dead in Christ will rise first." (I Thessalonians 4:16)

The Lord's appearance will be a great event. It will be announced by a cry, by an archangel and by a trumpet. The only angel called an archangel in the Bible is Michael. A common view is that there were three archangels: Lucifer, Michael and Gabriel. Those who have died in Christ will be resurrected when Jesus returns. Their soul and spirit will be united with their new bodies.

I Thessalonians 4:13, 14

2010-11-19T02:35:00.000-08:00

"Now we desire, brothers, that you have understanding in regard to those who sleep. We do not want you thrown into sorrow like those who have no hope." (I Thessalonians 4:13)

There seems to have been some misunderstanding among these believers regarding the fate of those who die in Christ. We do not know what this misunderstanding was. In the New Testament, believers who have died are almost always said to be asleep. Death is not the end for us. We have the hope of the resurrection. Therefore we should not throw ourselves into sorrow over those who sleep.

"Since we are confident that Jesus died and arose, so God will bring with Jesus those who have gone to sleep." (I Thessalonians 4:14)

Our hope of resurrection is based upon the resurrection of Jesus. Because he arose, those who die in Him will come back to life.

I Thessalonians 4:10-12

2010-11-11T02:41:00.000-08:00

"For indeed you all do love all the brothers in all Macedonia. But we beg you to overflow with even more." (I Thessalonians 4:10)

Paul praised these Christians for their love, but he did not want them to think that there was no room for improvement. We should never be satisfied with our spiritual progress.

"And you should be ambitious in seeking to live a quiet life, and be busy with your own affairs, and work with your hands as we commanded you." (I Thessalonians 4:11)

Paul uses a play on words in this verse. He instructs us to actively seek a quiet life. We should focus on our own affairs not the affairs of others. We are to work rather than be idle. These are commands not suggestions.

"So that you may walk properly in regard to those outside. And you will have need of nothing." (I Thessalonians 4:12)

These commands will protect and enhance our testimony. Those outside of Christianity will respect us. God will supply our needs as we obey these instructions.

I Thessalonians 4:7-9

2010-10-31T11:10:00.001-07:00

"For God did not appoint you in impurity but in sanctification" (I Thessalonians 4:7)

God has called us to live pure lives. To live immoral lives brings dishonor to the one who has given us his work to do.

"Therefore the one disobeying this order is not disobeying man but God who is giving us his Holy Spirit." (I Thessalonians 4:8)

This is not Paul's command, but God's. To violate it is to disobey God. Paul states that God is giving (present tense) his Spirit to us. It is a continuing gift. The Spirit can give us the strength to overcome the desires of the flesh.

"Now concerning Christian love, you all do not need us to write. For all of you are taught by God to love one another." (I Thessalonians 4:9)

The Holy Spirit teaches us that we should love other Christians. This is the mark of a true Christian according to John 13:35.

I Thessalonians 4:4-6

2010-10-21T02:50:00.000-07:00

"Each one of you should know how to control your body in purity and dignity." (I Thessalonians 4:4)

The word for body is vessel. Our body is the container of our soul and, for believers, of the Holy Spirit. We are to keep it pure and dignified.

"Do not walk in the passion of desire like those who do not know God." (I Thessalonians 4:5)

Many people who are apart from God live like animals. They live for the purpose of fulfilling their own desires without regard to morality or how this effects others.

"Do not wrong or take advantage of your brother by such acts, because the Lord is an avenger of all these things. Indeed we told you this before and explained this to you." (I Thessalonians 4:6)

Paul warns that those who wrong others risk judgment. This was something that he had already told them.

I Thessalonians 4:1-3

2010-10-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

"Finally brothers, we ask you and we admonish in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you should walk and please God, as you do, do this more and more and more." (I Thessalonians 4:1)

These believers knew how God wanted them to live. They were living good Christian lives. But Paul did not want them to be satisfied. They needed to grow in their Christian walk.

"For you know your orders given through us from the Lord Jesus." (I Thessalonians 4:2)

The word for orders or commandments in the original Greek is a military term. An order passed down the chain of command to a soldier who was to obey without question.

"For this is God's will, our moral purity, that you refrain from any immoral sexual behavior." (I Thessalonians 4:3)

God's will for the believer is to live a pure life. Sexual sin was a common part of life in New Testament times among the Greeks, Romans and others, as it is in our society.

I Thessalonians 3:12, 13

2010-09-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

"And may the Lord give you more than enough overflowing sacrificial love towards each other and towards all people, just as we have for you." (I Thessalonians 3:12)

Paul wants them to have an excess of real love for each other and for others. He wants them to exhibit the same love that he has for them towards others.

"This will settle your hearts that you may be without blame in holiness before God even our Father at the arrival of our Lord Jesus with all his dedicated ones." (I Thessalonians 3:13)

Paul's hope was that these Christians would stand before the Lord at his return with pure hearts, holy hand and without blame. We should hope this for ourselves. Living according to an excess of love will result in this.

I Thessalonians 3:10-11

2010-09-02T03:26:00.000-07:00

"Night and day I make an over abundance of requests to see your face and to mend the shortcomings of your faith." (I Thessalonians 3:10)

Paul kept before the Lord a stack of travel requests. He was asking all the time that he could go visit them. Not just for the sake of seeing them but so that he could minister to them. His reference to their shortcomings should not be taken as criticism. All of us have shortcomings in our faith. Paul may have felt that these shortcomings were his fault because he spent so little time with them.

"Now may God Himself even our Father and the Lord Jesus make straight our road to you." (I Thessalonians 3:11)

While he was writing to them, Paul sends in another travel request. He asks that God give him a straight road back to Thessalonica. The idea is that of a quick and easy journey. Paul was asking that God remove the obstacles that Satan had put on the road. (see 2:18)

I Thessalonians 3:7-9

2010-08-19T02:45:00.000-07:00

"Therefore we were encouraged, brothers, in our distress and afflictions by your faith." (I Thessalonians 3:7)

Paul had his own struggles. The fact that his children in the faith were remaining firm in difficult circumstances made Paul believe that his faithfulness in the midst of torments had been worth it.

"We now live if you stand firm in the Lord." (I Thessalonians 3:8)

Just by being true to their faith, they were giving Paul the strength to continue his ministry.

"For what act of giving thanks to God can we do that will repay him for you? With an overflowing joy, we rejoice because of you in him." (I Thessalonians 3:9)

Throughout this passage, Paul heaps exaggeration upon exaggeration to try to express his deep feelings for the believers in Thessalonica. In this verse, he states that it is impossible for him to give God the thanks due him because of them. He has an overflowing joy as he thanks God for them.

I Thessalonians 3:4-6

2010-08-08T14:21:00.000-07:00

"For even when we were there with you, we repeatedly told you that we were about to suffer affliction. And as you know, we were right." (I Thessalonians 3:4)

Paul had warned them that persecution would come.

"Therefore I ran out of patience and send Timothy so that I could know about your faith, lest some how the Tempter had tempted you and our labor was wasted." (I Thessalonians 3:5)

Paul was anxious about how these believers had handled the attacks of Satan. He had seen others leave the faith and fall by the wayside. He could not wait to find out about this group of believers.

"But now Timothy has returned to us from you. He has given us good news about your faith and your sacrificial love, and you have good memories of us. You desire earnestly to see us, even as we desire to see you." (I Thessalonians 3:6)

This may be the only place in the New Testament where the word for Gospel (good news) is used of news other than the news of God's salvation in Jesus Christ. This shows how much this good report meant to Paul. It was a relief to him that not only were these believers still faithful but that they cared for him and wanted to see him again. The false reports and accusations made by his enemies had fallen on deaf ears.

I Thessalonians 3:1-3

2010-07-27T10:42:00.000-07:00

"Therefore when we were out of patience, we took pleasure in being abandoned in Athens all alone." (I Thessalonians 3:1)

It was not easy for Paul to be left alone in Athens. He wanted help. But he was impatient for news from the Thessalonians.

"So we sent Timothy, our brother and a fellow-worker of God in the Good News of Christ. We sent him to help you stand firm and to encourage your faith." (I Thessalonians 3:2)

Paul sent to the Thessalonians Timothy, who would have been a big help to Paul in Athens. But he wanted Timothy to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonians in their Christian walk.

"To make sure that none of you are enticed in these afflictions. For you all know that this is our destiny." (I Thessalonians 3:3)

Paul was concerned that the believers would be encouraged to leave the faith in the midst of persecution and problems. Paul reminds them that the Christian's destiny is to suffer. Jesus suffered; we will suffer.

I Thessalonians 2:17-20

2010-07-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

"But brothers, we were bereaved of you for an hour, in presence not in heart. We strove earnestly to see your face with much desire." (I Thessalonians 2:17)

When Paul was forced to leave the Thessalonians, he felt like he was leaving his own children. He had a great desire to see them again.

"Therefore we intended to come to you all. I, Paul, tried many times but Satan keeps putting barriers in my path." (I Thessalonians 2:18)

We do not know exact details, but some how Satan had prevented Paul from returning to Thessalonica on more than one occasion.

"For what is our hope or joy or prize that we can boast about? Is it not you all, when we are before the Lord Jesus at His arrival. For you all are our praise and joy." (I Thessalonians 2:19, 20)

Paul says that when he stands before the Lord, his hope, joy and prize will be those who are there beside him because of his ministry and witness.

I Thessalonians 2:15, 16

2010-07-18T10:41:00.000-07:00

"The ones who also killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets. And they rejected and drove us out. And they do not please God. And they are hostile to all men." (I Thessalonians 2:15)

This is Paul's most direct condemnation of his own people. The Jewish leaders with the Roman authorities put Jesus to death. The Jews often attacked those who spoke to them in God's name. Rather than being an example to other nations and seeking to bring them to God, they hated other nations.

"They were preventing us from talking to other people groups lest they be saved. They are completing their evil acts always, making their progress towards the completion of wrath." (I Thessalonians 2:16)

What made them really upset with Paul was not that he taught that Jesus was the Messiah, but that he taught that non-Jews could be right with God. Paul warns that the Jews were heading towards judgment. This is likely a reference to the destruction of the temple in 70 AD.

I Thessalonians 2:13, 14

2010-05-31T16:17:00.000-07:00

"And for this reason we also thank God without pausing, that you received with your minds God's Word that you heard from us. You welcomed it not as man's word but just as it really is, God's Word, which works in all you believers." (I Thessalonians 2:13)

These believers understood that Paul was preaching the Word of God, not his own thoughts or ideas. It is the Word of God that has the power to change people.

"The fact is, brothers, you became imitators of God's assemblies in Christ Jesus in Judea. Because in the same way you have suffered at the hands of your own people, they have by the Jews." (I Thessalonians 2:14)

They may not have known that they were following in the steps of other believers, but they were. It is an encouragement when we are going through hard times, to know that there are others who have experienced the same thing and who understand what we are going through.

I Thessalonians 2:10-12

2010-05-12T15:58:00.000-07:00

"You and God are legal witnesses. We were pure, just and without blame towards you believers." (I Thessalonians 2:10)

Paul was morally pure, fair and acted in a way that he could not be justly accused of doing wrong to anyone.

"Even as you know, how each of you were like our children, and we acted like your father." (I Thessalonians 2:11)

Paul cared for them like a father cares for his very own children.

"We invited, encouraged and witnessed to you so that your lifestyle would be worthy of God Who called you into the service of His Kingdom and Glory." (I Thessalonians 2:12)

Remembering who we serve should cause us to live the right kind of life.

I Thessalonians 2:8, 9

2010-05-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

"Having deep affection for you all, we were delighted to give you all, not only the Good News of God but also our own selves, because you were loved by us." (I Thessalonians 2:8)

Paul was fully committed to these believers. He showed that he loved souls by happily giving them the Gospel message.

"The fact is, brothers, you remember our labor and our toil. Night and day we work so that not one of you are burdened while we proclaim to you the Good News of God." (I Thessalonians 2:9)

Paul was bi-vocational. He worked to support himself while he preached the Gospel. No one could claim that he took advantage of him or her.

I Thessalonians 2:6, 7

2010-04-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

"Neither were we seeking praise from men, not from you or from others." (I Thessalonians 2:6)

Paul was not a glory seeker. His motive was not to get a pat on the back and have people talk about how great a guy he was.

"We were able to burden you, being Missionaries of Christ. But we were babies among you all. We were to you, like a mother holding her child close." (I Thessalonians 2:7)

Instead of demanding his rights and privileges as an Apostle, Paul acted as if he had no more rights or privileges than an infant did. Paul had a deep concern for these believers. Rather than thinking of himself, he thought only of them.

I Thessalonians 2:4, 5

2010-04-27T16:26:00.000-07:00

"But just as we have been tested and approved by God to be trusted with the Good News, so we speak not to please men but God, the One who tests our hearts." (I Thessalonians 2:4)

Paul considered the preaching of the Gospel as a great trust given him by God. He would not betray this trust. His motive in ministry was to please God regardless of what men thought of him. It is not that he sought to upset or alienate people, but these things would not stop him from speaking what God wanted him to say. It is God that tests our motives.

"The fact is we did not use flattering words, just as you remember, nor did we have hidden greedy motives, God is our witness." (I Thessalonians 2:5)

Paul reminds them that he did not try to persuade them by using false words of flattery. He also reminds them that his motive was not to become rich. He even calls upon God to be his legal witness of this truth.

I Thessalonians 2:2, 3

2010-04-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

"But having already suffered physically and being verbally insulted as you remember in Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak to you God's Good News in much anguish." (I Thessalonians 2:2)

In Philippi, Paul and Silas had been beaten and imprisoned. Yet when they came to Thessalonica, God gave them the courage to boldly preach the Gospel, even though in the flesh, they were experiencing severe mental and emotional struggles.

"For the fact is our appeal to you was not our of error, nor out of immorality, nor was it a trap." (I Thessalonians 2:3)

The word for appeal or exhortation means to call to one's side. Paul had called upon these people to join him in serving Christ. Paul makes it clear that he did not teach things that were false. He did not promote immoral behavior. He was not seeking to trap his listeners for his own benefit. He was not a sheerer of God's sheep.

I Thessalonians 1:10; 2:1

2010-04-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

"And how you are waiting expectantly for God's Son to return from heaven. God raised his Son, Jesus, from the dead. Jesus has delivered us from God's wrath that is coming." (I Thessalonians 1:10)

People knew these believers expected Jesus to return. They were patient and confident as they waited. The resurrection of Jesus proves that God accepted his sacrifice. Jesus will return to remove us just before God's wrath, the seven vials of Revelation, is poured out upon the earth. See Revelation chapter 16. You can also read my blog on Revelation: http://revelation101.blogspot.com.

"The fact is, brothers, you all, whom I am writing to now, remember our arrival, that is was not fruitless and the results are continuing." (I Thessalonians 2:1)

It seems clear from this passage, that Paul's reputation was under attack. Someone had been telling the Thessalonians that Paul was not all that he appeared to be. They were attributing to him impure motives. Paul begins with this verse to defend himself against these false accusations. Paul was writing to people who had been there when he started the church. They knew from personal experience what type of person he was. Paul's work among them had been fruitful. And his work was continuing to bear fruit.

I Thessalonians 1:8, 9

2010-04-18T12:27:00.001-07:00

"You have trumpeted out the word of the Lord not only in Greece but all over the place. Your trust in God is being discussed all over the place. I do not even need to tell anyone about you, they already know." (I Thessalonians 1:8)

The testimony of this church had spread rapidly. It is believed that even in Rome, people had heard of these believers. Their faith was being talked about.

"They tell me about what happened when we arrived in Thessalonica. How you turned from dead idols to become willing slaves of the living God." (I Thessalonians 1:9)

People knew about how the word arrived in Thessalonica. People knew about the conversion of these believers from idolatry to Christian faith. They were serving the Lord.

I Thessalonians 1:6, 7

2010-04-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

"You imitated us and the Lord. You accepted the word of truth even while suffering severely although the Holy Spirit gave you inner joy." (I Thessalonians 1:6)

We are to follow the example of our spiritual leaders as they faithfully follow Christ. As long as they obeyed the word of God, they would suffer, but this did not hinder their obedience. True joy is from the Spirit. It is listed in the Fruit of the Spirit.

"You have become a model to everyone in Greece." (I Thessalonians 1:7)

This is the only church that Paul calls a model. The two provinces of Macedonia and Achaia made up most of Greece.

I Thessalonians 1:4, 5

2010-04-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

"Knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God." (I Thessalonians 1:4)

Brethren is a common word in this letter. Paul feels a close kinship to other believers. They were like brothers and sisters.
God had chosen (elected) these believers. "Election" emphasizes God's purpose for saving us. He has chosen us for a purpose: to worship Him and to minister to others in His name. Paul knew the mission for which God had chosen these believers. In the last half of this chapter, Paul will describe their ministry.

"For our Gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake." (I Thessalonians 1:5)

The good news (Gospel) was what Paul and the other Apostles preached. Paul preached the Gospel using words, but man's alone do not save. The Gospel is the power of God to salvation. The Gospel has a divine power. No one is saved unless the Spirit draws him or her to God. Those who are not yet Christian will always move away from God unless the Spirit works on them.
In the original Greek, there is no "in" before much assurance. This links the Holy Spirit and much assurance. He gives people a divine assurance that the Gospel is true.
The messenger is part of the message! Many have refused the Gospel because of the way Christians act. Paul lived a life that caused people to believe his message. His behavior helped prove his words.

I Thessalonians 1:2, 3

2010-04-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

"We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers," (I Thessalonians 1:2)

Paul thanked God for what He had done; the change in these believers was not their own doing. Paul regularly prayed for other Christians, especially his converts.

"Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father," (I Thessalonians 1:3)

Work of faith is not work that produced faith, but the work produced by faith. Their deeds showed that they had faith. Their labor showed that they had true love. Labor is a stronger word in the original than that used for work. Their sure hope in the return of Jesus made them patient even under persecution. Some link the phrase, "in our Lord Jesus Christ" only to hope. However, our faith and love are also in Christ. These are spiritual gifts given us by the Holy Spirit. Also notice that God is watching all that we do in Christ.

I Thessalonians 1:1

2010-04-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

"Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ; grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 1:1)

Paul, Silas and Timothy worked together to plant the Church at Thessalonica.

Notice that twice in this verse there is a close linking of God the Father and Jesus. The Apostle Paul believed in the divinity of Jesus. Paul also calls Jesus, Lord and Christ, that is, Messiah.

Grace is God's favor that we do not deserve.

Peace means more than an absence of conflict. It means wholeness, soundness and prosperity.

First Thessalonians

2010-04-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

I am starting with this post a study of the book of I Thessalonians.

Thessalonica was a thriving city in New Testament times with a population of around 200 000. It was the capital and largest city in the Roman province of Macedonia, which is part of modern day Greece. It had an excellent harbour and was on a major Roman road, the Via Egnatia.

To learn about how the church in Thessalonica started, read Acts 17:1-10.

Because the Apostle Paul left Thessalonica unexpectedly, he worried about the Church. Therefore, he sent Timothy back to find out how the Church was doing. Timothy rejoined Paul in Corinth and gave his report on the Church.

Paul wrote this letter from Corinth around 51 AD in response to Timothy’s report. This would have been about a year after Paul left Thessalonica. This is the second letter of Paul that we have. (Galatians is the first.)

Timothy’s reported that the Church was doing well spiritually. However, the Christians in Thessalonica were being actively persecuted. Also, they wanted clarification on some of Paul’s teachings.

This letter reveals to us the heart of the Pastor-Missionary Paul. It contains much teaching on End Times. The main theme is the Second Coming.

Suffering Will Not Last Long

2010-03-31T16:16:00.000-07:00

A person who is born again knows that they will spend eternity with God. The Bible says, "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.'' (Romans 8:18)

If Jesus is your Saviour, you can look past the trouble of this life to an eternity full of joy and happiness. Jesus died so that we could have all the wrong we have done forgiven. In Jesus, we can have a close relationship with God. This relationship can see us through any suffering that comes, even as it allowed Job to suffer without ever cursing the Lord.

God Suffers With Us

2010-03-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

Another source of comfort in trouble is to remember that God suffers with us. When a young child is sick, his mother feels the pain of that child because of her love. God loves us in much the same way. He hurts when we hurt. He feels our pain. He understands our torment. Our God is not an impersonal unfeeling being.

Because Jesus Christ was God in the flesh, He has experienced pain like what we experience. The writer of Hebrews states, "For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted.'' (Hebrews 2:18)

Isaiah in speaking of Jesus said, "He is despised and rejected of men; a Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not.'' (Isaiah 53:3)

This is what God has experienced. He understands what it is like to suffer. He cares about us.

Suffering Can Make Us Stronger

2009-10-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

When suffering comes remember that suffering can strengthen us. We can become better people because of our suffering. God can use the difficult times we go through to improve our character.

Much of what the Apostle Peter wrote in First Peter has to do with suffering. He wrote this letter to encourage Christians who were suffering for their Faith in Jesus. He wrote, "But the God of all grace, Who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.'' (1 Peter 5:10)

Our suffering is for a short time but if we trust in God, He will make us strong.

Why Does God Allow Suffering?

2009-10-10T12:48:00.000-07:00

God is all powerful. He is also completely good. Since this is true, how can there be evil in this world? Although a complete answer to this question is not possible, here is some food for thought.

Part of the problem that we have with this question has to do with our understanding of good. When we think of God removing evil we think about the end of wars, crime, sickness and physical problems.

However, if God removes evil, He would do a complete job. He would destroy all that is wrong.

When you think of evil in those terms, you must realize that God would destroy every person on the face of the earth. Because every one of us does wrong, every one of us causes others to suffer to some extent. If God stops allowing suffering, He would have to end all our lives or turn us all into robots.

The other reason why God allows suffering is that He is merciful! Lamentations tells us, "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.'' (Lamentations 3:22)

The Psalmist states, "He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward them that fear Him.'' (Psalm 103:10,11)

The Prophet Ezekiel wrote, "Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways, for why will ye die, O house of Israel?'' (Ezekiel 33:11)

God is patiently waiting and hoping that those who do evil and make others suffer will change their ways and turn to Him that He might forgive them. His mercy allows suffering to continue.

Suffering Caused By Satan

2009-09-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

The final cause of suffering, that I want to discuss, is Satan. Satan was an angel of God. He was created perfect and sinless. However, like Adam, he disobeyed God. Now he hates God. He seeks to destroy God's creation.

Satan was the one who caused the suffering of Job. We can be sure that he is still active in this world bringing pain and misery to all that he can. God has given Satan a great amount of freedom at present. Satan uses his freedom to wreck all the havoc that he can. The Apostle Peter wrote, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.'' (1 Peter 5:8)

Satan is powerful, wise and deceitful. He offers us what looks good but is designed to hurt us. The Apostle Paul warns us, "Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.'' (2 Corinthians 11:14b)

The devil wants to destroy every person because God loves us. We will not know in this life how much misery has been caused by him.

Suffering From God

2009-09-15T16:34:00.001-07:00

Some suffering is caused by the judgment of God. The Bible gives us many examples of those whom God judged for their rebellion against Him.

The Egyptian Pharaoh refused to let the Israelite people go free from slavery. The nation of Egypt suffered ten terrible plagues from God.

The people of Israel refused to enter the promised land and they all died in the wilderness. Their children inherited the land.

Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed because of their homosexual practices. In the New Testament, Ananias and Sapphira died because they lied to the Apostles.

God does punish those who go too far in their sin. However, God always warns before He punishes. When a person is suffering God's judgment, they will know it. Direct punishment from God is a rare thing. We should be careful before we say that God is the direct cause of any suffering.

Suffering is Caused by the Actions of Others

2009-08-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

All the pain, famine and death caused by wars, crime, and government mismanagement can be traced to the greed, pride and wickedness of man.

If you turn on your television or open a newspaper, you are confronted by the evil actions of people. Violent crimes are becoming common. Murder, rape, beatings, wife abuse, and child abuse are all every day events. Suffering is also caused by the actions of government.

For example, the policies of the government of North Korea has increased the suffering of her people. If this government was less isolationist and was less militant, more humanitarian aid would reach the people.

Suffering because of The Fall of Man

2009-08-16T10:26:00.000-07:00

One cause of suffering is the fall of man. God created man perfect and without any fault. God also gave man a very precious gift, free will. God allowed man to decide if he would obey God or disobey Him. To test man, God gave him one law to obey. The first man, Adam, broke that law. This plunged the human race into sin.

Man's sin has infected all of God's creation like a contagious disease. When man broke God's law, suffering entered the world. God told Adam, "Cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life.'' (Genesis 3:17b)

Most natural disasters can be traced back to this first sin. Paul hints at this. He wrote, "For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.'' (Romans 8:22)

Paul pictures all creation suffering because of sin. This world suffers with earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods and other disasters because of the corruption caused by man's initial sin.

The Storms of Life

2009-08-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

Consider the words of Job 1:13-19, "And there was a day when his sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house; and there came a messenger unto Job, and said, The oxen were plowing, and the asses feeding beside them: and the Sabeans fell upon them, and took them away; yea, they have slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

"While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The fire of God is fallen from heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

"While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The Chaldeans made out three bands, and fell upon the camels, and have carried them away, yea, and slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

"While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, Thy sons and thy daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house: and, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.''

Job suffered greatly. We will probably never experience the tragedy that he did. However, in each of our lives, we will experience sorrow, suffering and tragedy. The next few post will deal with the cause of suffering.

Every one of us experiences times of distress. It is part of life on this planet. Although some people suffer much more than others, all of us at one time or another will ask, "Why did this happen to me?'' The Bible gives us four main causes for suffering. I will discuss each of these in a separate post.

Overcoming Sinful Habits

2009-07-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

The last few posts have been about the Bible's plan for defeating sin in our lives. Briefly, here is how to put this into practice. To defeat sin a person must become aware of the sin that has to be put off. This involves not only knowing that something we do is wrong, but seeing the influence it has on our lives. We should accept that it is sin. We should make ourselves aware of how often we practice this sin and what circumstances trigger the sin.

We also must learn the Biblical alternative for the sin. We should study the Scripture and find what God wants us to put on. What good habit should replace the sin habit? We must make the Scripture a concrete part of our lives.

We also need to restructure our lives. If certain circumstances trigger a sin, then we should avoid those circumstances. If we associate certain things with a sin, then we should get rid of those things.

We must adjust our schedule so that we have time for what God wants us to do. We may need to change our priorities. We should remove everything in our lives that contribute to the sin and add those things that will promote what is godly.

To overcome a sinful habit, we also need to break the chain of sin. We can learn to prevent sin. It is common advice to someone with a bad temper to count to 10 before saying anything. That advice has to do with preventing sin. When dealing with a specific sin, we should learn what leads up to it. We can then deal with the situation before the sin occurs.

Failing to prevent the sin, we should learn how to quickly curtail its effects. We must quickly ask forgiveness and turn away from the sin.

We can also get the help of others. Someone close to us can be used to remind us of what we have said that we will do. We may arrange some signal that a person can give us to warn us that we are headed on the road to that sin. If we truly want to change then we will accept all the help that we can get.

There are two final elements to overcoming sin. We must look at our lives as a whole. Every area of our life affects other areas. We may need to make many changes if we are going to have victory over sin.

Finally, we need to start practicing the new behaviour. We need to put on the new habit by doing it. This should be done at the same time we are putting off the old habit. Slowly the new way will replace the old. We will have victory over the sin.

Putting Off and Putting On

2009-07-23T12:51:00.000-07:00

The Bible presents a very simple plan for overcoming sinful habits. It speaks of putting off and putting on. The Apostle Paul in Ephesians presents this simple battle plan for defeating sin. He wrote, "That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.'' (Ephesians 4:22-24)

Paul tells the members of the Church at Ephesus that they should be different now that they have been born again. They should stop doing the wicked things they used to do. They should put off their old sinful habits.

They are also to become new people. They are to replace their old sinful habits with new godly habits. It is almost impossible just to stop doing wrong. We may stop for a time but eventually we will fall back into our old ways. We must not only stop doing wrong; we must also start doing what is right. We must replace the bad with the good if we want to have a lasting victory. This is the advice that Paul gave.

Back in Ephesians Paul continues his discussion by giving examples of putting off and putting on. He wrote, "Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath; neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.'' (Ephesians 4:25-28)

Paul says that a liar should not only stop lying but also should force himself to constantly tell the truth. A person who gets angry should learn to deal with his anger immediately and not harbor grudges. A person who steals should not only stop stealing but should start working and then give some of what he earns to the needy!

Repentance

2009-07-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

When sin gains a victory in our lives, we should deal with it quickly. The first step is repentance. Repentance means to change direction or to change our mind. The idea is that we stop following sin and that we turn to God and approach Him.

Sinful habits have a powerful influence over people. To defeat them requires a purposeful choice and a totally new view of them. We must learn to hate sin as God hates it. We need to realize that sin will destroy us. Sin will rob us of joy, peace and happiness. Sin leads only to death and destruction. God wants us to turn away from sin because sin is harmful. God wants what is best for us. He wants us to enjoy a full and abundant life.

When we repent and confess our sin before God, we can obtain forgiveness. The Apostle John wrote, "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.'' (1 John 1:8,9)

Now it is essential that we understand that confession and forgiveness are centred in Jesus Christ. We can only obtain forgiveness of sin from God because Jesus died for us. We must approach God in repentance through Jesus. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.'' (John 14:6)

Consider also the words of 1 John 2:2, "And He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.''

The prophet Isaiah links the suffering of the Christ with forgiveness of sin. He wrote, "But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.'' (Isaiah 53:5)

In Jesus Christ, God offers not only forgiveness of individual sins, but complete forgiveness for being sinful! Through Faith in Jesus Christ alone, God offers complete forgiveness and a home with Him for eternity.

When a Christian sins, he needs to confess that sin to God. Sin will not keep a Christian from heaven. Once a person places his Faith in Jesus, he is eternally secure in Him.

However, sin will disturb a person's relationship with God. It will hinder prayers. The Holy Spirit will convict and make a Christian feel miserable. A person will suffer because of sin. So we should confess our sin and ask God to help us to overcome it.

Knowing God's Word

2009-06-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

Our first line of defense against the attack of sin is a knowledge of God's Word. Psalm 119:9-11 says, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to Thy Word. With my whole heart have I sought Thee: O let me not wander from Thy commandments. Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.''

The Bible gives us God's perfect standard of right and wrong. By learning the principles taught in Scripture, we can know what God wants us to do and avoid sin.

If you want to please God, you must study the Bible. If you want strength to defeat sin, you must give the Holy Spirit ammunition to use. This means memorizing Bible passages. Each of us has weaknesses in different areas. When we discover a weakness within ourselves, we should memorize Scriptures dealing with that weakness. These Scriptures will help us to overcome sin in these areas.

For example, if you often say things that you regret, you might memorize James 3:6, which tells us, "And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.'' Remembering this verse will help you to think before speaking.

Overcoming Sin

2009-05-27T16:58:00.000-07:00

In Romans chapter seven Paul gives an account of his struggle with sin. He wrote, "I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.'' (Romans 7:21-25)

This passage describes the war that every Christian has raging within him: a war between selfish desires and the Holy Spirit that lives within his spirit. In my next few posts in this blog, I will give a some hints on how to win the war against sin.

Fruit of the Spirit

2009-05-21T15:55:00.000-07:00

The fruit of the spirit is evidence that a person is filled with the Holy Spirit.

Being filled with the Spirit means to be controlled by Him. In other words, a person who is filled with the Spirit of God will obey God and His Word. He will live a sanctified and pure life.

In Galatians 5:22,23, the Apostle Paul lists the fruit of the Holy Spirit. He wrote, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.''

Here is the divine test that we can use to judge if a person is walking in the Spirit or not. This is the divine test that we can use to judge if we are walking in the Spirit or not. A person who is Spirit filled must demonstrate these characteristics because they are Spirit given.

The closer a person is to God and the more mature as a Christian he becomes, the easier it will be to detect the Spirit's fruit within his life. By this we should judge our Christian walk. It is our day to day lives that show how close to God we are.

Spiritual Gifts of Ministry

2009-05-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

There has been such an overemphasis in the last few years on the miraculous spiritual gifts that other aspects of the Holy Spirit's work have been ignored. Miraculous spiritual gifts are not for today. However, the Holy Spirit does give Christians gifts of ministry.

Consider the Apostle Paul's teaching in Romans 12:5-8. He wrote, “So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering; or he that teacheth, on teaching; or he that exhorteth, on exhortation; he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.''

These gifts are not miraculous gifts. When Paul mentions the gift of prophecy in this chapter, he is referring to proclaiming the truth not telling the future.

There are several important facts that we need to understand about these gifts of ministry. First, every Christian has some gift of ministry. The Apostle Peter wrote about the same type of gifts as Paul discusses in Romans 12. In 1 Peter 4:10,11, Peter wrote, “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to Whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.''

Peter is not writing of miraculous gifts. There is nothing in the context that would support that. He is speaking about using gifts of ministry to support and help one another within the local community of believers.

Notice, Peter states that every Christian has one of these gifts of ministry. Every Christian has a part to play in serving God. It is not the job of clergy to do all the work of the Church. Every member has a part to play.

This is what Paul taught in Ephesians 4:11,12. Paul wrote, “And He gave some, apostles; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.''

According to the Apostle Paul, the leaders in a Church are to prepare God's people for the work. The leaders in a congregation are not to do all the work. They are to train, teach and encourage the membership to do the work.

Christian friend, God has given you a special capacity, a gift of ministry, to be used in His service. You will find joy and peace as you faithfully use God's gift to help others.

Miraculous Spiritual Gifts

2009-04-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

When we consider the miraculous gifts of the Spirit, the most important Biblical passage to consider is 1 Corinthians 12-14. These three chapters contain the most complete discussion of this topic in the Bible.
Because of the current conflict over this doctrine, every Christian should prayerfully study this section of Scripture. As Christians we should do all things according to the Bible. God's Word must be the basis for what we believe: not man's opinion, not our feelings, not our understanding.
For our lesson, let us concentrate on one section from these chapters. 1 Corinthians 13 is the great love chapter of the Bible. Beginning with verse 8, the Apostle Paul by inspiration of the Holy Spirit begins to compare love with the miraculous spiritual gifts.
Verses 8 and 9 read, “Charity (i.e. love) never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.''
This passage makes it clear that the miraculous gifts being practiced by the early Christian Churches would come to an end. They were not permanent. Love lasts forever, but these other gifts are temporary.
Paul tells us why they are temporary. They are incomplete. They do not provide us with a complete picture of what God wants us to know. In the next verse Paul tells us when they will end and then in verse 11 he illustrates what he is saying.
Paul wrote, ``But when that which is perfect is come, than that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.''
This is the area in which controversy comes. What was Paul speaking about when he said ``when that which is perfect is come?'' Paul has just been talking about knowledge. What is our source of perfect knowledge? What can we trust to be absolute truth? What is perfect and complete?
It would be good to consider what the book of James tells us. In James 1:22-25, we are told, ``But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass; for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh in the PERFECT law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.''
James tells us that God's Word is perfect. It is our source of perfect and complete knowledge: all that God wants us to know about spiritual matters. James also compares God's Word to a mirror.
Back in 1 Corinthians 13, the next verse, verse 12 says, ``For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face (i.e. clearly): now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.''
When Paul wrote to the Corinthian Church, the New Testament was not complete. There was much that they did not yet understand. Once the Bible was completed, after John wrote Revelation, the perfect Word of God was complete. No further revelation is needed.
The miraculous spiritual gifts were used in the first century of Christianity to prove who was of God and who was not. Two men might visit the Church at Rome. Both say that they are teaching the truth. Yet what they say may disagree. The Church did not have the New Testament to study to know who was telling the truth. How could they know?
The one to whom God had given the power to do miracles was the one telling the truth. Maybe, he was an unlearned man from Galilee, but he would start talking in Latin. Maybe, there would be someone sick present and he would heal them. These signs would prove that he was preaching the truth.
Once the New Testament was complete these miracles were no longer needed and they ceased. We do not need them today. We have God's perfect Word.

Spiritual Gifts

2009-04-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

The Holy Spirit is the third person in the Godhead. He is very active in the world today. He holds this world together by His power. His work of convicting the lost, brings people to a knowledge of their sinful condition.

Those who trust in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells. He brings their spirit into fellowship with God. He gives them eternal life. He empowers them that they might live pure and holy lives before God. He reveals sin in their lives that they might turn from it and forsake it. Within every saved person the Holy Spirit of God is at work.

In the next few posts in this blog will consider three aspects of the Holy Spirit's work. We will consider the miraculous spiritual gifts, the spiritual gifts of ministry and the fruit of the Spirit.

Preaching

2009-04-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

In almost every worship service, there is a time when God's Word is read and God's man seeks to apply it to our lives. This should be the highlight of most services. Yet for many it is the time to take their Sunday nap!

The Bible is God's message for us. We should honour and respect His Word. When it is read, it is God speaking! We should listen prayerfully and attentively, asking ourselves, ``What does God want me to do?''

When the speaker begins to explain God's Word, we should also pay close attention. If God's man has sought God's wisdom and understanding, then he will have something to say which we need to hear.

Most preachers put much prayer, study, thought and concern into their messages. They seek to speak in the power of the Holy Spirit. They want to be God's spokesmen and reach the needs of the people.

We should respect their position and responsibility. We should pray that God will be able to speak through them. We should listen carefully that we might hear what God would say to us.

The Lord's Supper

2009-04-06T03:30:00.001-07:00

The taking of the Lord's Supper is also an act of worship. It is a very solemn event and should cause us to seriously think about our relationship with God. The Lord's Supper should only be taken by believers, those who have placed their faith in Christ.

The Lord's Supper is symbolic. The bread represents the body of Jesus that was broken for us. He was beaten, nails were driven through his hands and feet, a sword was thrust in his side. The grape juice or wine represents the blood of Jesus, the blood that constantly dripped from his broken body on that day when he was crucified.

When we take the Lord's Supper, it should have an effect upon us. It reminds us of the death of Christ: His blood that was shed and His body that was broken. It reminds us that we are not saved by the good things we have done, but by the sacrifice of the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. It reminds us of how much Jesus has done for us and how little we have done for Him. It causes us to praise God, to humble ourselves, and to renew our commitment to God.

Baptism

2009-03-25T16:40:00.001-07:00

Another act of worship is Baptism. After a person has trusted in Jesus as Saviour, the first step of obedience is baptism. Baptism is a public testimony that a person has been born again.

When the person being baptized is immersed under the water, he is picturing the death and burial of Jesus. He is saying by his actions that Jesus died in His place. In baptism, he is publicly declaring that he has trusted in the death of Christ to pay for His sins.

When the person comes up from under the water, it is a picture of the resurrection of Christ. Jesus rose from the dead. When we are saved, we die to our old lives and take on a new life obeying God. Baptism pictures this in a public manner.

Being at a service where people are baptized, should lead us to renew our own commitment to God. A person being baptized reminds us that God is still seeking and saving people. It encourages us to go out and witness to those who have never accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.

It reminds us that we are not alone in serving God. Here is a new Christian taking the first step of obedience to Christ. Here is a new member of God's family publicly announcing that they will follow Christ. It reminds us that when we are gone, others will be there to take our place.

Baptism is important for the individual being baptized and for the encouragement of the Church family.

Giving As Worship

2009-03-10T16:00:00.000-07:00

One activity, which is part of almost every worship service, which we do not always think of as being worship, is the taking up of the offering. To many the offering is viewed as a necessary evil. Yet giving to God our offerings should bring us joy and be a very important part of our worship.

We honour God by giving to His work. We should be thankful that God has provided our needs and that we can give back to Him a portion of what He has given us. We should rejoice because we have something to give.

The Apostle Paul taught some principles of giving. Paul wrote, "Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.'' (Philippians 4:17 19)

There are three major principles taught in this passage. First, giving brings blessing. It truly is more blessed to give than receive. If we give with the right attitude, we feel good and happy.

The second principle is that God is pleased with those who give to His work. Paul said that the offering given by the Church at Philippi had a sweet smell to God.

The final principle is that God supplies the needs of those who support His work. Paul promised the Philippians that God would give them everything they needed because they had supplied his need. If we want God to provide for us, then we should worship Him by giving.

One final word about giving, when we give to God, we should give primarily through our local Church. It is the local Church that God wants to use to send the Gospel around the world. It is the local Church that is God's witness in a community.

The Church that we attend is God's first line of defense against wickedness in our community. It is also where those who will go out and attack the strongholds of Satan should be trained and prepared.

Worship By Prayer

2009-03-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

Prayer is another important part of a public worship service. Although most of our praying should be done privately, there are examples throughout the book of Acts of groups praying together.

In Acts 4:24, we are told that the believers "lifted up their voice to God with one accord.'' In Acts 12:12, the Bible says, "Many were gathered together praying.'' Acts 13:3 states, "When they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.''

We should be careful to keep our public praying general and relevant to the worship service. Public prayer should concentrate on the Missionaries that the Church supports, the ministry of the local Church, specific needs which are public knowledge and thanking God for His blessings.

A public prayer should be something to which all present can "Amen," that is, so be it, or I agree.

Worship by Singing

2009-01-11T13:26:00.000-08:00

When we sing, we should seek to uplift one another and bring glory to God. The Apostle Paul wrote, "Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with Grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.'' (Colossians 3:16,17)

Paul encourages us to sing about God and Jesus. In our singing we are to teach one another, encourage one another, and give thanks to God. Singing is an important part of worship. It helps prepare our hearts and minds for the other parts of the service.

Worship in Church

2008-12-02T17:12:00.000-08:00

The next few posts will be about how we worship the Lord. We will be concentrating specifically on how we worship God in a Church setting, as a body of believers. True worship is based upon our attitude. We can do all the right acts and still God may be displeased with our worship.

Amos told the people of Israel that God said, "I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. Though ye offer Me burnt offerings and your meat offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts. Take thou away from Me the noise of thy songs; for I will not hear the melody of thy viols.'' (Amos 5:21 23)

God was displeased with Israel not because the acts of worship they did were wrong. They were obeying the laws that God gave to Moses. The problem was that, in their day to day lives, they were dishonoring God. They were living immoral lives and yet they expected God to approve of their worship.

Amos told them to repent. God will not accept our worship if we are practicing an immoral lifestyle. Before we can worship God we must turn from sin and seek to obey Him from day to day. That is essential.

When we gather with other Christians in a worship service, everything we do should be directed towards praising God and bringing Him honor.

Purpose of the Church

2008-11-12T16:52:00.000-08:00

What is the purpose of the Church? Why does it exist?

Just before our Lord returned to heaven, He told His Church what He wanted them to do. In Matthew 28:18 20 we read, "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach (i.e. disciple) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.'' (KJV)

The Church should tell the lost the Gospel and encourage them to trust in Jesus. The Church is to take the Good News of what Jesus did to the entire world. The Church should baptize only those who have accepted Christ as Savior. The Church should teach believers how to obey Jesus.

And every Christian should be a member of a local Church that is actively doing these things.

Local Church Membership

2008-10-28T17:10:00.000-07:00

When a local Church gathers for worship a wide variety of people might be present. Some who are lost and do not yet have a personal relationship with Jesus. Some who are saved but only attend services once every few months. Some who are saved but have not been baptized. Some who usually worship with another congregation. Some who are saved, baptized and attend the services on a regular basis.

When we consider this situation, it should be obvious that attending the service of a Church is not sufficient grounds for a person becoming a member. There must be some requirements for membership. Let us consider what requirements the Bible places upon Church membership.

Acts 2:41 links baptism with addition to Church membership. It says, "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.'' (KJV)

This verse indicates that those who were baptized were added to the Church. Throughout the New Testament baptism is portrayed as the minimum step of obedience for all who trust in Christ. Baptism is a public act that testifies that we have accepted Christ as our Savior. The weight of New Testament example favors limiting Church membership to those who have followed Christ in baptism.

Another requirement for membership in a particular Church is commitment to its ministry. In Acts 2:1, we are told that the members of the Church at Jerusalem "were all with one accord (i.e. one purpose) in one place.'' (KJV)

Another requirement for Church membership is continued obedience to Christ. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Church at Corinth, ``But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? Do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.'' (1 Corinthians 5:11-13, KJV)

The Church at Corinth was instructed to remove from its membership those who lived lives of habitual and wicked sin. They were to keep the membership of the Church pure and above reproach.

Let me summarize the Scriptural requirements for Church membership. To be a member of a local Church, you must be baptized as a public act testifying that you have trusted Jesus as your Savior, you must be committed to the local Church and its ministry, and you must be living a life free of habitual or public sin. If more Churches would hold to these simple guidelines, there would be less ammunition for the world to use to attack the Lord's Churches.

The Catholic Church

2008-10-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

The Apostle’s creed states, “I believe in . . . the holy catholic Church, . . .”

The adjective catholic comes from a Greek word that means whole or complete. So the catholic church referred to in the Apostle’s creed is not the Roman Catholic Church or any other denomination, but the complete Church of God, sometimes referred to as the universal church.

Of all the New Testament, the book of Ephesians is best at explaining the concept of the catholic church. Some of its lessons include: Jesus is the head of the church (1:22,23). Believers are, the church is, gathered together in Christ (2:4-10). We are citizens of God’s Kingdom (2:19). The church shows the wisdom of God (3:10). In the church, glory belongs to God (3:21). The church should strive for unity (4:2-6). God gives believers positions of service in the church for its growth (4:11-16). We are called out of the world and its dark actions (4:17-19).

So as the church, believers have been called out of the world. We are gathered together in Christ. God has a plan and a purpose for his people.

It is the church that is responsible for continuing the ministry that Jesus began. We are to continue to help the needy and to share the Gospel with those who are not yet Christian. This work will not finish until all those who will be saved have been reached.

The Local Church

2008-09-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

A local congregation of believers is the most visible manifestation of the Kingdom of God on earth. We should not underestimate the importance of our local church. Individual Christians working alone can not accomplish what God desires. God has chosen to do most of His work in this age through believers working together within their community.

A local church is a place where believers can encourage one another. When you are down, others can lift you up. When another is down, you can help lift that person up. If you are not part of a church, there may be no one to give you that helping hand. Scripture tells us, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12, NIV)

A church gives us the opportunity to minister. We use our spiritual gifts and talents to benefit other believers, our community and the world. Our gifts and talents are best used as part of a group where they can compliment the gifts and talents of others. Our weaknesses are offset by the strengths of others. Our strengths offset others’ weaknesses.

Sharing the Gospel, helping the needy, giving hope to the desperate and other acts of love can be accomplished better by a united group of believers than by individuals. Jesus said that the world would know we are his followers by our love for one another. Showing this love is done in community.

Almost since creation, believers have gathered together to worship God. Although we can and should worship God alone in quiet times, there is something special the happens when God’s children gather together to praise and honor the Lord. It gives us a foretaste of what we will experience before the throne in eternity.

We need a local church in order to serve God to the fullest. Our local church needs us to fulfill God’s purpose for her. Every believer should be an active member of a local congregation.

ecclesia

2008-05-07T03:21:00.000-07:00

To understand what a word really means, we should look at its history. The word translated Church in the New Testament is the Greek word, ecclesia. Liddell and Scott's Greek English Lexicon (Harper & Brothers, New York, 1846) is considered by many scholars one of the best ever published. This lexicon states that the primary meaning of ecclesia is, "an assembly of the citizens summoned by the crier, the legislative assembly.''

In the Greek city states, such as Athens and Corinth, the citizens of the city could be called together to debate and vote upon a particular issue. This is the original secular meaning of the word.

Another way to discover what a word means is to break it apart and examine the meaning of its parts. The word, ecclesia, is a combination of two words, ek and klesis. Ek means "out of, from within.'' Klesis means "a calling.'' It can be used of a legal summons to court or an invitation to a feast.

Putting the two words together, you have "out of calling.'' It can be clearly seen how this came to be used of an assembly of citizens. The citizens of the city were called out from among all who might live in the city to attend the meeting. Many of the residents in the city would not be citizens and therefore would not be part of the ecclesia or assembly of citizens.

Follow Up

2008-04-27T05:12:00.000-07:00

If the person makes a commitment, you then have a responsibility to ensure the well being of the new born Christian. If possible introduce him to another Christian and ask the new Christian to tell what he has done. Ask for his name and phone number and give him your phone number. Invite the person to Church, ask him if he knows where it is and find out if transportation is a problem.

Encourage him to read the Bible and make sure he has one. Tell him that he can talk to God in prayer. Encourage him to tell others about his decision. Keep in contact.

The first few weeks of an individual's Christian life are the most important. While his experience of salvation is still fresh in his mind, he is willing to make further steps in the Christian life. If he is quickly established in a fellowship of Christians and receives encouragement during this important time, he will likely continue to grow.

If he is left to his own, he will find it difficult not to slip back into his old life style. One Church did a study and found that only 1 in 6 of those who professed Christ through their ministry became active in their Church. As a result the Church established a follow up program where those who professed Christ were immediately contacted and received extra encouragement for several weeks.

When the Church did another study after this program was established, they discovered that now 5 in 6 of those who professed Christ became active in their Church.

Sharing the Gospel

2008-04-20T12:37:00.000-07:00

Once you are comfortable with telling others your testimony, you need to increase your witnessing ability. A new Christian may only be able to share his testimony. However, a person who has been saved for sometime should have much more to say.

Find a simple Gospel outline and begin to memorize it. Memorize the Scriptures that prove each point and be ready to show someone else where the Scriptures are and what they mean.

There are many good Gospel outlines available. One of the most popular is the Romans Road, which uses several verses in the book of Romans to present the Gospel. Some Christians find a good Gospel tract and then use it to share the Gospel.

When you share the Gospel with someone try to make sure that the person understands what you have said by asking him questions. ''Do you understand why Jesus died for you?'' or ''Does this make sense to you?''

Go over anything about which he is not sure.

It is not just enough to know the Gospel in our heads. The inquirer needs to be shown that he must respond to the message, to make a decision to turn from everything he knows to be wrong in his life, to apologize to God, to put his trust in Jesus, to follow Him and to receive the Holy Spirit in order to live the New Life.

We receive the free gift of Eternal Life by Faith, not just believing. The Bible tells us that the demons believe. Scripture states, ''Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils believe and tremble.'' (James 2:19)

A person must not only understand the Gospel, He must also place his trust in Jesus. If the person has understood and has come to the point in his life where he is ready and willing to turn and follow Christ, then ask if he would like to make that step right there and then.

Ask him if he could sincerely pray the commitment prayer at the end of the tract that you are using. Assure him that if he means it from his heart then from that moment he will be a Christian, a follower of Christ. If he is willing, pray first for him then ask him to pray the prayer from the tract.

If you do not have a tract with you, then ask him to repeat what you say as you pray. When he finishes praying, welcome him into the Family of God! Assure him of what he has done by reading one or two suitable verses, like Romans 10:9 and 1 John 5:13.

If the person is not ready or is unwilling to turn and follow Christ, then suggest he take a tract and seriously think about becoming a Christian. Be polite and exchange phone numbers if it is appropriate.

My Personal Testimony

2008-04-13T13:30:00.003-07:00

In a follow up on the previous post, here is a short version of my own testimony.

When I was young, my father deserted our family. After this, I became a loner. I did not want to show emotion, and I had few friends. I came to hate my father. For a time, I kept a baseball bat by the door of our home, ready to use if my father ever showed up.

After a long spiritual journey, one day I had a conversation with an older man who helped me to understand what Jesus accomplished for me on the cross. At that time, I asked God to forgive me, and I became a follower of Christ. I put my trust in Jesus to take care of me in this life and for eternity.

Jesus became my friend. Over time, God began to work on the emotional desert that was my heart. It did not happen all at once, but slowly the hate for my father was replaced by love. I established a relationship with my father again. We never became close, but before he died I could honestly say that I loved him and held no hard feelings towards him.

God and his Spirit are still at work in my life. I am still not all I should be. Making friends is still difficult. But I am not what I once was. God has and is changing me to became what he wants me to be.

I tell people who have been hurt in relationships that no matter who may have betrayed them, there is one person who will always be a true and faithful friend. His name is Jesus.

Your Personal Testimony

2008-04-02T03:03:00.000-07:00

Sharing what Jesus has done for you is your personal testimony. A personal testimony has great power. People who would never listen to a Gospel presentation will listen to someone tell about how their life was changed.

You should think over your testimony and know what you will say. This will help you to present what happened to you in a logical and easy to understand way. You should be able to give your personal testimony in three or four minutes.

First, talk about what your life was like before you became a Christian. Give some relevant details but do not glorify your past sins.

Then talk about how you became a Christian. Give details about when, where, why and how you felt at the time.

Then mention the difference that Jesus has made in your life. Tie your present situation into your past life and explain what has changed. Tell the person what Jesus means to you now.

Who Can Witness

2008-03-27T17:37:00.000-07:00

Some Christians have the mistaken idea that they need much Bible knowledge before they witness. This is totally false. Now, Bible knowledge will help you to witness and answer questions but as soon as a person trusts Jesus as their Saviour they can be a witness.

After all, to be a witness just means to tell what you know. All that a Christian needs to do is tell others what Jesus has done for them. You can at least be like the blind man who told the Jewish religious leaders, ''Whether He be a sinner or no, I know not; one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.'' (John 9:25)

A new Christian may say, ''I do not know what will happen to those who never hear about Jesus. But I do know that before I was on my way to hell and now heaven is my home.''

Or he might say, ''I do not know why God allows suffering. But I do know that before I was miserable and now I have peace and joy.''

Or he might say, ''I do not know all the answers. But I do know that before my life had no purpose and now I follow Jesus.''

Looking For Opportunities

2008-03-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

The idea of telling others the Gospel can be a little frightening. We must remember that God is with us. If people reject what we say, they are not rejecting us they are rejecting the message. We cannot force people into God's family. We do not convict people; the Holy Spirit does that.

Do not put too much pressure on yourself. Be open, honest, friendly. Do not be pushy, rude or looking for an argument. Trust God to give you opportunities and trust God to make the person understand the truth. You just tell what you know.

Many times the problem is that we are not aware of an opportunity when it comes. Many every day events can be used as an opening to begin a conversation and share a little of the Gospel.

James Kennedy in Evangelism Explosion (1970, D. James Kennedy) tells this story:

I once stood outside an elevator with a friend. When another person approached, my friend reached for the button to call the elevator and said to the woman, ''Are you going up?''

''Yes,'' she responded.

''Are you going all the way up?'' he inquired.

''No, just to the third floor,'' said she.

''I mean, when God's sweet chariot swings down low to take his people home to heaven, do you know for sure that you are going all the way up to heaven?'' he continued.

Her response was, ''No, I'm not sure of that,'' and, as we entered the elevator, he began sharing the Gospel with her.

It is important when you speak to a stranger or someone who is not well know to you, that near the beginning of your conversation you ask their permission to share the Gospel with them. This is not only polite but also ensures that the person is interested and will listen.

The Command to be a Witness

2008-03-18T03:14:00.000-07:00

If you are a born again Christian, then you are to be a witness for Jesus. He told His followers, ''Ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.'' (Acts 1:8)

At the Last Supper, Jesus said, ''But when the Comforter is come, Whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceedeth from the Father. He shall testify of Me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with Me from the beginning.'' (John 15:26,27)

To tell others about Jesus is a commandment. If we love Jesus, then we will obey Him. Being a witness is also evidence that we are saved. If God has truly given us eternal life, the greatest possible gift, then we will want to share that with others.

When the Samaritan woman met Jesus, she immediately went and told the people in her town about Him. She wanted others to share in her joy.