And because he saw the crowds, he went up a mountain. And after he sat down, his students came to him. Then, he opened his mouth and began to teach them, saying...
Matthew 5:1-2
What are you thinking about as you sit down to read this today? Maybe you’re thinking, “I really need to feel connected to God.” Maybe you’re thinking, “Well, here we go - I’m going to be disciplined and read some spiritual stuff now.” Maybe you’re a naturally disciplined person, and you’re doing this out of habit - a very good habit - but thinking about other things that you’ve got lined up for the day.
Whatever it is you’re thinking about, I think you’d agree that what we think about is a result of what we long for, and the action of longing comes from an underlying belief that if we get what we long for, we’ll be happier and avoid pain. And that’s normal. As people, we all are on a pursuit to find lasting happiness and avoid pain.
The people who heard and saw Jesus were no different. They heard the promises of a perfect, happy Kingdom which would be given as a gift to everyone who submitted to God’s commands. And they saw the preacher reverse the effects of sin in the world - stopping sickness, pain, and even death. Word spread, and people gathered. Like us, these people wanted to be happy. And this guy looked like a good candidate to give them what they wanted.
He went up the mountain...
Jesus responded to the gathered crowds by going up a mountain. Now, Matthew, who was one of Jesus’ students who was there, and who wrote this book, isn’t trying to be a good storyteller in telling us that Jesus went up a mountain. He’s not trying to simply give us a setting for this sermon; there are no other setting elements. Further, Jesus intentionally went up the mountain. He was sending a message by his actions along with his words that would shock the crowds (7:29).
This is why Jesus’ ascending the mountain would’ve been surprising. The most important prophet in Israel’s history was Moses. That’s because God established his relationship, technically ‘covenant,’ with Israel, through Moses. Moses was commanded to ascend a mountain to get the terms of the covenant from God to deliver them to the people. And when he did, God, accompanied by darkness, thunder and lightning, from the mountain, verbally announced his Law to the whole nation. They were, understandably, terrified. (See Exodus 19-20.)
God’s covenant with Israel included laws, and it also included promises - promises that were ultimately for the forgiveness of sins and eternal joyful life in God’s presence. The God who had announced himself to all of Israel was certainly scary, but he was also certainly good and loving - and could be trusted. God had introduced himself to Israel way back then - and it was an act of favor to people who had no real, lasting hope.
So when Jesus, the herald of God’s coming Kingdom, went up a mountain he was sending a message. God was about to speak again. God was about to introduce himself. God was about to initiate relationship with man.
Humans were about to see the glory and hear the voice of the God who loves.
He sat down...
When Jesus sat down, he was taking the cultural posture of a preacher in that day. It was as if he was getting behind a pulpit. His students, or disciples, came to him. They were committed to his teaching before this point; but now their attention was really grabbed. And why wouldn’t it be? What experience would be more momentous than God relating to you?
He opened His mouth and taught...
Matthew then tells us that Jesus opened his mouth and taught. On a quick reading, one might pass over that phrase ‘opened his mouth’ as just a strange manner of speaking of ancient people. But it wasn’t. Matthew, reflecting back on this sermon years later, purposefully said ‘Jesus opened his mouth.’
The reason for this is that in the past God is said to have opened the prophets’ mouths - particularly Moses’. That’s an idiom for saying that he gave them the words to say. They were acting as prophets - speaking God’s words. Matthew wrote this to clue us in on this startling fact: Jesus was speaking about the eternal Kingdom of God based on his own authority over it. He opened his own mouth.
Matthew didn’t understand that at this point. But it would just be a short time after this that Jesus would be publicly and brutally murdered. Matthew and the others were scared out of their minds. For a couple days, anyway. Then Jesus rose from the dead and came back to his students. They went up the same mountain together, probably recalling the first time they’d ascended it; and then, Jesus told them clearly: “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me”(28:20).
In that sentence, Jesus claimed to have sovereignty over everything that exists. And when he did, the disciples probably thought back to the first time he ascended this mountain - and remembered with awe - they were not just hearing God’s words given to them by a prophet like Moses, though that would in itself be amazing. No - they sat in the presence of God himself, as God himself spoke to them, based on his own authority as creator of everything they could see, everything they couldn’t see, and every event that would ever take place in space and time.
They weren’t just hearing from a prophet of God. They were actually with God. Or, to be a little more precise, God had come down to be with them.
After rising from the dead, Jesus also told them to announce his teachings to every culture on earth, because he would grant some people entry into his Kingdom. And he promised that he would be with his students always, until the end of the world (28:19-20).
But how would he be with his disciples? Because it certainly doesn’t look or feel like he is here sometimes. Simple - the same way he had done so with the disciples before. By his word. By his teaching... as he governs and controls everything that exists.
Jesus’ disciples didn’t see a cloud of darkness and fire descend on a mountain, with thunder and lightning, and the terror-inducing voice of God like Moses and the ancient Israelites did. They saw a man who they liked, who was righteous, who did miracles - and they sat with him. And they would look back on that moment and be in awe: “We sat with God!”
But that God - Jesus - is still the one who is in charge of everything. And he still comes to relate to people by the words that Matthew and the other disciples recorded. When we come to these words of Jesus, we are coming to more than a religious document, a self-help manual, a list of rules, or a historical writing. We are coming to God himself, just as Jesus’ students were.
But unlike the disciples we can know it now. Jesus came and announced a new Kingdom. He announced the forgiveness of our apathy towards God and the breaking of his laws. He showed what that kingdom would be like by reversing suffering in the world. And he promised to be with us forever.
If you have turned to him as God, away from yourself, he is with you. When you sit down with his word, depending on him to hear from him, God himself, is sitting down with you, to talk to you. And one day, you will be in the physical presence of Jesus. You’ll actually hear his voice, and you’ll actually see his kindness as he listens to you.
Things you may want to pray about:
1. It’s very easy to forget that the greatest gift God gives to people is the experience of knowing him... so thank him for stooping down in love to us so that we could know him, because of Christ.
2. Think of people in your life: friends, family, people in your church, people around the world. Think of places in the world where God isn’t known. Ask God to make himself known to those people and in those places so that they can know him.
3. Think about the things on earth that you trust in to make you happy that aren’t God. Tell God you’re sorry for turning to those things instead of trusting him for joy. Ask him for help.
4. Ask God to deepen your knowledge of him and your love for him. He’ll do this by showing you more and more of his own glory.
Grace and Peace,
Onesimus
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Monday, May 21, 2012
Discipleship - Goals and Definitions
Discipleship is not a word that appears in Scripture. However, the noun form of the word occurs ('disciple'), as does the verbal form of the word ('make disciples'). 'Discipleship' is a word that we commonly use to describe action in obedience to Christ's command, 'Make disciples.'
Simply put, a disciple is one who has submitted and is submitting to Christ in all areas of life: in his affections, belief-structures, and behavior. In other words, a disciple is one who has been regenerated by the Holy Spirit and who is learning to obey all that Christ has commanded.
Thus, the goal of discipleship is the obedience of faith to all the commands of Christ, for the sake of his glory. The object of discipleship is people from every nation. The source or authority over discipleship is Christ himself. We are to make disciples of him, not us.
To summarize, then, to 'make disciples', means to explain Christ's words (the Scriptures) to people in such a manner that those to whom he grants repentance learn to obey everything he has commanded.
In saying this, much is remaining unsaid. However, it must be emphasized that discipleship means explaining all the words of God such that a person obeys all the words of God for the glory of God.
And as one explores the content of discipleship, we must remember that we also are disciples. We should be asking about areas in which we need growth and putting together a plan for said growth as well as planning for the obedience of others.
In what follows, because they're basically my notes, I have left out Scripture references for the sake of brevity. However, if the need arises I can add them or footnote them later.
Discipleship - Content
The Scriptures teach us that the information which must be passed down to a disciple involve three categories: doctrine (what a disciple must believe), character (what a disciple must do), and ministry skill (how a disciple must serve others with the word of God).
What follows is a list of necessary components of the content of discipleship under these three headings. Though the following list is not exhaustive, it is purposefully broad.
Doctrine
-The nature of God
-The person of Jesus
-The role of Jesus as Messiah
-The historical nature of the acts of God
-The human race and its sin
-The penalty of sin
-Jesus Christ as a substitute for his people
-The role of faith in salvation
-The nature of the Scriptures (authoritative, without error, historical, sufficient)
-The sovereignty of God in having a purpose in all of history
-The vindication of Christ in his resurrection
-The status of Christians resulting from Christ's resurrection
-The current status of Christ as reigning ruler of all things
-The current status of Christ as the intercessor for his people
-The return of Christ to complete his reign in judging all humanity
Character
-The role of the Holy Spirit in producing obedience
-The role of the Gospel and faith in it in producing obedience
-The role of repentance and effort in producing obedience
-The uses of the Moral Law
-The content of the Moral Law
-The means of grace (the word of God, especially taught by the ordained men; prayer; the sacraments; fellowship; church discipline)
Ministry Skill
-Learning about people (listening, learning using questions, discerning idols)
-Learning how to boast about Christ in front of Christians and non-Christians
-Evangelism
-Making wise decisions
-Interpreting Scripture or recognizing teachers who do
-Applying the truths of the word of God to different people in different situations
-Planning, executing plans, and evaluating results with regard to the advancement of the word of God
Discipleship - Praxis
What follows is a list of 7 steps that are intended to be helpful in defining the means of discipleship. These steps, however, are to be taken in light of the answers to two questions. First, is the person a believer or unbeliever? Second, is the goal of discipleship moving the person to Christian maturity or Christian leadership? Not all Christians are called to be leaders, and it is okay for someone not to be. (Leaders in this context refers to positional leaders in the church rather than the 'type' of leaders all Christians are called to be i.e. we're all a kingdom of priests to God). The answers to these questions can actually be made clear as the steps are taken.
Seven Steps to Making Disciples
1) Establish credibility as a person whose life is submitted to Christ, who can teach a person what it means to live in obedience to Christ.
2) Invite the person or people into a relationship with the expressed purpose of learning about Jesus from God's word.
3) Investigate, by means of questioning, the person's spiritual state and real spiritual needs.
4) Plan the person's or people's discipleship with a specific goal or end in mind.
5) Teach the person, from the Scriptures. Involve the person in your obedience to the Scriptures (according to the preceding list, in all categories, as you are able). These are two different things; however, they must be happening simultaneously. It is far too easy for Christians to do a bunch of teaching without the involvement of the disciple.
6) Delegate specific tasks to the disciple that are directly related to the promulgation of the word. Help them grow as they serve.
7) Release the person into the care of properly appointed elders or into the role of elder.
Discipleship - A Summary
Discipleship involves the expression of Christ's words for the purpose of bringing people into obedience to him. This will involve what they believe, the way they live, and the way they help others. Some disciples will help others (or serve/minister to them), by becoming elders and Christian leaders in churches. We are called, as missionaries, to make disciples of Jesus according to all the commands of Jesus in dependence on the sovereignty of Jesus for the glory of Jesus.
Grace & Peace,
Onesimus
Simply put, a disciple is one who has submitted and is submitting to Christ in all areas of life: in his affections, belief-structures, and behavior. In other words, a disciple is one who has been regenerated by the Holy Spirit and who is learning to obey all that Christ has commanded.
Thus, the goal of discipleship is the obedience of faith to all the commands of Christ, for the sake of his glory. The object of discipleship is people from every nation. The source or authority over discipleship is Christ himself. We are to make disciples of him, not us.
To summarize, then, to 'make disciples', means to explain Christ's words (the Scriptures) to people in such a manner that those to whom he grants repentance learn to obey everything he has commanded.
In saying this, much is remaining unsaid. However, it must be emphasized that discipleship means explaining all the words of God such that a person obeys all the words of God for the glory of God.
And as one explores the content of discipleship, we must remember that we also are disciples. We should be asking about areas in which we need growth and putting together a plan for said growth as well as planning for the obedience of others.
In what follows, because they're basically my notes, I have left out Scripture references for the sake of brevity. However, if the need arises I can add them or footnote them later.
Discipleship - Content
The Scriptures teach us that the information which must be passed down to a disciple involve three categories: doctrine (what a disciple must believe), character (what a disciple must do), and ministry skill (how a disciple must serve others with the word of God).
What follows is a list of necessary components of the content of discipleship under these three headings. Though the following list is not exhaustive, it is purposefully broad.
Doctrine
-The nature of God
-The person of Jesus
-The role of Jesus as Messiah
-The historical nature of the acts of God
-The human race and its sin
-The penalty of sin
-Jesus Christ as a substitute for his people
-The role of faith in salvation
-The nature of the Scriptures (authoritative, without error, historical, sufficient)
-The sovereignty of God in having a purpose in all of history
-The vindication of Christ in his resurrection
-The status of Christians resulting from Christ's resurrection
-The current status of Christ as reigning ruler of all things
-The current status of Christ as the intercessor for his people
-The return of Christ to complete his reign in judging all humanity
Character
-The role of the Holy Spirit in producing obedience
-The role of the Gospel and faith in it in producing obedience
-The role of repentance and effort in producing obedience
-The uses of the Moral Law
-The content of the Moral Law
-The means of grace (the word of God, especially taught by the ordained men; prayer; the sacraments; fellowship; church discipline)
Ministry Skill
-Learning about people (listening, learning using questions, discerning idols)
-Learning how to boast about Christ in front of Christians and non-Christians
-Evangelism
-Making wise decisions
-Interpreting Scripture or recognizing teachers who do
-Applying the truths of the word of God to different people in different situations
-Planning, executing plans, and evaluating results with regard to the advancement of the word of God
Discipleship - Praxis
What follows is a list of 7 steps that are intended to be helpful in defining the means of discipleship. These steps, however, are to be taken in light of the answers to two questions. First, is the person a believer or unbeliever? Second, is the goal of discipleship moving the person to Christian maturity or Christian leadership? Not all Christians are called to be leaders, and it is okay for someone not to be. (Leaders in this context refers to positional leaders in the church rather than the 'type' of leaders all Christians are called to be i.e. we're all a kingdom of priests to God). The answers to these questions can actually be made clear as the steps are taken.
Seven Steps to Making Disciples
1) Establish credibility as a person whose life is submitted to Christ, who can teach a person what it means to live in obedience to Christ.
2) Invite the person or people into a relationship with the expressed purpose of learning about Jesus from God's word.
3) Investigate, by means of questioning, the person's spiritual state and real spiritual needs.
4) Plan the person's or people's discipleship with a specific goal or end in mind.
5) Teach the person, from the Scriptures. Involve the person in your obedience to the Scriptures (according to the preceding list, in all categories, as you are able). These are two different things; however, they must be happening simultaneously. It is far too easy for Christians to do a bunch of teaching without the involvement of the disciple.
6) Delegate specific tasks to the disciple that are directly related to the promulgation of the word. Help them grow as they serve.
7) Release the person into the care of properly appointed elders or into the role of elder.
Discipleship - A Summary
Discipleship involves the expression of Christ's words for the purpose of bringing people into obedience to him. This will involve what they believe, the way they live, and the way they help others. Some disciples will help others (or serve/minister to them), by becoming elders and Christian leaders in churches. We are called, as missionaries, to make disciples of Jesus according to all the commands of Jesus in dependence on the sovereignty of Jesus for the glory of Jesus.
Grace & Peace,
Onesimus
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
A Godly Woman in Her Leisure Time
A Godly Woman in Her Leisure Time… this is a loaded title. In order to speak on this topic, one would have to assume that the speaker is a “Godly Woman”. In so many ways I feel inadequate to take on this responsibility. There are multiple times throughout the course of a day when I know I am not representing “Godliness”. I am not always the meek and quiet wife I should be. My frustration gets the better of me in my dealings with my children. Even though our home is a constant place of gatherings and fellowship I am not always the most generous and hospitable hostess. There are moments when I have failed miserably at being the “Christ like” image and witness that this world needs to see when I am in public. And although I have the reputation of possessing a laid back personality, I have acquired the skill of slicing an individual with subtlety. The mere reality of knowing just how “ungodly” I am can be overwhelming and I wonder if I will ever grow from what and where I am to true “Godliness”. In times such as these, I often find myself reflecting on the happenings, details and focus of the day (if not week). As a result, I usually find that my behavior is due to a lack of time with the Father in prayer and His Word. Prayer is the lifeline that has been given as a form of communication between us and the Holy, Righteous Creator of this universe. His Word is the blueprint by which we are shown how to survive in this world even though we are not of it. So, if I have deprived myself of these two necessities, then how in the world do I expect to represent, walk and live in “Godliness”?
The demands and responsibilities that we wives hold seem to be endless. I personally have the privilege of being a wife, mother of 4, homemaker, house keeper, school teacher, nurse, cook, waitress, janitor, peace maker, chauffer, and laundry attendant in our home, among others. There are times when I just want to allow my brain to breathe, take a short sabbatical and enjoy “leisure time”.
According to the Webster’s Dictionary, the definition of “leisure” is “Freedom provided by the cessation of activities, especially time free from work or duties”. Paul H. Wright states in The Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary that, “The Bible recognizes the need for regularly scheduled breaks from work. The weekly Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11) and several yearly festivals (Lev. 23:1-44, Deut. 16:1-17) were intended to focus on Israel’s spiritual needs but also provided breaks from physical labor. In fact, the Mosaic Law mandated a yearlong honeymoon for newlyweds (Deut. 24:5, Luke 14:20)...”
Anyone who truly knows me is fully aware of the fact that one of my most favorite places in the entire world is to be with Jimmy (my husband)… preferably cuddled. I love his company, conversation, friendship, everything about him. He seemingly has the capability of relieving my stress regardless of the day. I also enjoy catching a good movie, listening to music, going somewhere to enjoy the wonder of God’s creation, or collaborating and creating with others artistically. For some, leisure may be cooking, for others it could be reading a book, some may prefer to shop, exercise, talk on the phone or sip on a cup of coffee/ tea while enjoying a pleasant conversation. “Leisure” has many faces and comes in many forms. This creates a question. Can leisure, although recommended scripturally, become sinful at any point? I believe it can, especially when the leisure time is misplaced. When any form of leisure takes precedence to the gentle tugging of the Holy Spirit that prompts us to spend time with Him, then it has most definitely developed into sin. The problem lies when leisure becomes our first and sometimes only means of release. Those favorite pastimes have been made into idols and before we know it, we have lost the sense of knowing how to think of time spent with Him as enjoyable, but rather as just another task that we have to push through. There have been times when I have been so exhausted that the focus needed to read, pray or meditate on His Word requires more effort than I am willing to sacrifice. All I want to do is “chill” and not “think”! Wow… how self-centered is that? Where does pray without ceasing (1 Thes. 5:17) and delight in the Law of the Lord, and on His Law should I meditate day and night (Psalm 1:2) come into play? How ironic then that I wonder why I have a problem with portraying “Christ likeness”.
What example did Christ set as a model for us to follow? What did He routinely do whenever He went off to get away from the crowds and disciples? He prayed. I think there is something to be said in this. Even though Christ was fully God, He was also fully man. His physical body required the relaxation that mortals must have. During this time of relaxation He deliberately positioned Himself in such a way where His mortality would not give way to sin. Times of fatigue and exhaustion are prime occasions for our flesh to be given opportunity to rise up and surrender to the desires that we are too tired to fight. We are “too tired” to make the necessary sacrifices that are needed to remain focused on a life of Godly submission and obedience. If I am in need of a release/ rest and it is Christ that I am having difficulty representing to the world and my family, then wouldn’t it make sense for me to follow Christ’s example? Christ showed us that it is an honor and privilege to go to the Originator and Creator of all things, at all times, regardless of our “feelings”.
We live in a culture that lacks a true understanding of suffering and deprivation. Regardless of one’s financial status or living circumstances, the fact remains that we live in a land of abundance. It is an abundance of media, entertainment, activities, food, relationships, etc. Suffering believers that live in other regions of the world, consider prayer a necessity for daily living. They risk their lives to merely possess the Holy Scriptures that have become their true daily bread. Our nations’ privileges are such distractions. We have allowed for them to be given power that keeps us from enjoying the intimacy that all believers should experience with the Lord. In light of these things, I have to soberly ask, “How ridiculous does my need to “chill” sound?” The answer is that my priorities must change, which in turn will determine my definition of leisure. In addition, I am learning that as I attempt to spend time with the Father, I must also be willing and ready to allow for the time to be one of self-examination. As He washes me with His Word, my hearts’ cry must be that He exposes every ounce of what I look like before Him. When there is a lack of self-examination, the result of the time spent will only become an increase in head knowledge without life transformation. If we come to these times with this in mind, then the gospel will be that which bleeds into our everyday interactions. As I truly get to know Him and clearly see what it is that I look like before Him, then my interactions will change to resemble “Christ likeness”.
I have come to the conclusion that relaxation is necessary but that Christ must become my first exhale. He must become the One I first seek for “cuddling”, the One I first enjoy. He must be my #1 leisure.
Grace & Peace
Nikki Miles
The demands and responsibilities that we wives hold seem to be endless. I personally have the privilege of being a wife, mother of 4, homemaker, house keeper, school teacher, nurse, cook, waitress, janitor, peace maker, chauffer, and laundry attendant in our home, among others. There are times when I just want to allow my brain to breathe, take a short sabbatical and enjoy “leisure time”.
According to the Webster’s Dictionary, the definition of “leisure” is “Freedom provided by the cessation of activities, especially time free from work or duties”. Paul H. Wright states in The Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary that, “The Bible recognizes the need for regularly scheduled breaks from work. The weekly Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11) and several yearly festivals (Lev. 23:1-44, Deut. 16:1-17) were intended to focus on Israel’s spiritual needs but also provided breaks from physical labor. In fact, the Mosaic Law mandated a yearlong honeymoon for newlyweds (Deut. 24:5, Luke 14:20)...”
Anyone who truly knows me is fully aware of the fact that one of my most favorite places in the entire world is to be with Jimmy (my husband)… preferably cuddled. I love his company, conversation, friendship, everything about him. He seemingly has the capability of relieving my stress regardless of the day. I also enjoy catching a good movie, listening to music, going somewhere to enjoy the wonder of God’s creation, or collaborating and creating with others artistically. For some, leisure may be cooking, for others it could be reading a book, some may prefer to shop, exercise, talk on the phone or sip on a cup of coffee/ tea while enjoying a pleasant conversation. “Leisure” has many faces and comes in many forms. This creates a question. Can leisure, although recommended scripturally, become sinful at any point? I believe it can, especially when the leisure time is misplaced. When any form of leisure takes precedence to the gentle tugging of the Holy Spirit that prompts us to spend time with Him, then it has most definitely developed into sin. The problem lies when leisure becomes our first and sometimes only means of release. Those favorite pastimes have been made into idols and before we know it, we have lost the sense of knowing how to think of time spent with Him as enjoyable, but rather as just another task that we have to push through. There have been times when I have been so exhausted that the focus needed to read, pray or meditate on His Word requires more effort than I am willing to sacrifice. All I want to do is “chill” and not “think”! Wow… how self-centered is that? Where does pray without ceasing (1 Thes. 5:17) and delight in the Law of the Lord, and on His Law should I meditate day and night (Psalm 1:2) come into play? How ironic then that I wonder why I have a problem with portraying “Christ likeness”.
What example did Christ set as a model for us to follow? What did He routinely do whenever He went off to get away from the crowds and disciples? He prayed. I think there is something to be said in this. Even though Christ was fully God, He was also fully man. His physical body required the relaxation that mortals must have. During this time of relaxation He deliberately positioned Himself in such a way where His mortality would not give way to sin. Times of fatigue and exhaustion are prime occasions for our flesh to be given opportunity to rise up and surrender to the desires that we are too tired to fight. We are “too tired” to make the necessary sacrifices that are needed to remain focused on a life of Godly submission and obedience. If I am in need of a release/ rest and it is Christ that I am having difficulty representing to the world and my family, then wouldn’t it make sense for me to follow Christ’s example? Christ showed us that it is an honor and privilege to go to the Originator and Creator of all things, at all times, regardless of our “feelings”.
We live in a culture that lacks a true understanding of suffering and deprivation. Regardless of one’s financial status or living circumstances, the fact remains that we live in a land of abundance. It is an abundance of media, entertainment, activities, food, relationships, etc. Suffering believers that live in other regions of the world, consider prayer a necessity for daily living. They risk their lives to merely possess the Holy Scriptures that have become their true daily bread. Our nations’ privileges are such distractions. We have allowed for them to be given power that keeps us from enjoying the intimacy that all believers should experience with the Lord. In light of these things, I have to soberly ask, “How ridiculous does my need to “chill” sound?” The answer is that my priorities must change, which in turn will determine my definition of leisure. In addition, I am learning that as I attempt to spend time with the Father, I must also be willing and ready to allow for the time to be one of self-examination. As He washes me with His Word, my hearts’ cry must be that He exposes every ounce of what I look like before Him. When there is a lack of self-examination, the result of the time spent will only become an increase in head knowledge without life transformation. If we come to these times with this in mind, then the gospel will be that which bleeds into our everyday interactions. As I truly get to know Him and clearly see what it is that I look like before Him, then my interactions will change to resemble “Christ likeness”.
I have come to the conclusion that relaxation is necessary but that Christ must become my first exhale. He must become the One I first seek for “cuddling”, the One I first enjoy. He must be my #1 leisure.
Grace & Peace
Nikki Miles
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Tornados are God's kindness
If you've been following the news, you saw the massive destruction that a tornado wrought in southern Indiana.
Now, I admit it. I wrote the title of this article to get your attention. Tornados aren't perfectly kind; they're, in fact, partially God judging the world.
That said, there are at least two reasons why tornados are in fact, God's being kind to the world.
1) We deserve, for our treason against our Holy Creator, the eternal hell of torment. Anything less is kind. I don't plan on defending that here, but if that's an issue for you, write, and we will address it.
2) Natural disasters are a reminder that the end of the world is near. Jesus and his apostles taught that the end of the world would be preceded by natural disasters, financial ruin, and other calamities. It is kind for God to remind us that Jesus is returning to judge the world. That's an event for which we should be prepared.
As I worshiped God this morning, I read this verse: The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. (1 Peter 4:7)
The phrase 'the end of all things is at hand' should jar us. Everything we know is about to come to an end. The next major event in human history doesn't involve politics or nations or teachers or people who will be made popular in the media. The next major event in human history is the revelation of Jesus Christ in all of the glory that he has possessed since eternity past.
At that time, he will judge, destroy, and re-create the world. At that time those who have obeyed him will enter into his new world in joy! And those who have not obeyed him will begin to be tormented for their rebellion.
That is the next major event in human history. As a result, God instructs us to be self-controlled and sober-minded. Those are very 'spiritual' words. People usually don't use them unless they're citing Scripture.
Self-controlled means that we're to do everything we do in life with purpose. We are never to do things by default. We are to make decisions about our activities based on the fact that the world, and everything and everyone we know and love, is coming to an end very, very soon.
Sober-minded means that we are to think in terms of reality. Reality means that the most important things aren't what we're having for dinner. Or what kind of education your kids will have. Or what promotion you're shooting for at work. Or what friends you'll spend time with tonight. Those things aren't bad - but they are of no importance unless they are seen in light of the return of God incarnate to his world. In other words, 'sober-minded' means "Wake up, and snap out of stupid!" It is stupid to be mentally involved in things without a serious eye to why everything exists and towards what end it is careening.
So, as a result of the end being very soon, we're to be self-controlled and sober-minded. God tells us that there's a particular purpose that he wants us thinking seriously, though. That is, our prayers.
This is probably inclusive of both prayers as a local church body, gathered, and prayers as individuals on their own. We are to pray in light of the end of all things. And indeed, it's sort of intuitive that if our mind is towards the end, we will pray!
Let me end with a few application questions.
1) How much do you pray?
2) What practically can you do to increase both your private and public practices of prayer?
3) What do you pray about? Do your prayers reflect the fact that the end is near?
4) Can you make a list of things you ought to pray about and discipline yourself to pray for regularly?
5) What do you spend time thinking about? What practices would be helpful for you to keep 'sober-minded' and to remember that 'the end is at hand'?
Onesimus
Now, I admit it. I wrote the title of this article to get your attention. Tornados aren't perfectly kind; they're, in fact, partially God judging the world.
That said, there are at least two reasons why tornados are in fact, God's being kind to the world.
1) We deserve, for our treason against our Holy Creator, the eternal hell of torment. Anything less is kind. I don't plan on defending that here, but if that's an issue for you, write, and we will address it.
2) Natural disasters are a reminder that the end of the world is near. Jesus and his apostles taught that the end of the world would be preceded by natural disasters, financial ruin, and other calamities. It is kind for God to remind us that Jesus is returning to judge the world. That's an event for which we should be prepared.
As I worshiped God this morning, I read this verse: The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. (1 Peter 4:7)
The phrase 'the end of all things is at hand' should jar us. Everything we know is about to come to an end. The next major event in human history doesn't involve politics or nations or teachers or people who will be made popular in the media. The next major event in human history is the revelation of Jesus Christ in all of the glory that he has possessed since eternity past.
At that time, he will judge, destroy, and re-create the world. At that time those who have obeyed him will enter into his new world in joy! And those who have not obeyed him will begin to be tormented for their rebellion.
That is the next major event in human history. As a result, God instructs us to be self-controlled and sober-minded. Those are very 'spiritual' words. People usually don't use them unless they're citing Scripture.
Self-controlled means that we're to do everything we do in life with purpose. We are never to do things by default. We are to make decisions about our activities based on the fact that the world, and everything and everyone we know and love, is coming to an end very, very soon.
Sober-minded means that we are to think in terms of reality. Reality means that the most important things aren't what we're having for dinner. Or what kind of education your kids will have. Or what promotion you're shooting for at work. Or what friends you'll spend time with tonight. Those things aren't bad - but they are of no importance unless they are seen in light of the return of God incarnate to his world. In other words, 'sober-minded' means "Wake up, and snap out of stupid!" It is stupid to be mentally involved in things without a serious eye to why everything exists and towards what end it is careening.
So, as a result of the end being very soon, we're to be self-controlled and sober-minded. God tells us that there's a particular purpose that he wants us thinking seriously, though. That is, our prayers.
This is probably inclusive of both prayers as a local church body, gathered, and prayers as individuals on their own. We are to pray in light of the end of all things. And indeed, it's sort of intuitive that if our mind is towards the end, we will pray!
Let me end with a few application questions.
1) How much do you pray?
2) What practically can you do to increase both your private and public practices of prayer?
3) What do you pray about? Do your prayers reflect the fact that the end is near?
4) Can you make a list of things you ought to pray about and discipline yourself to pray for regularly?
5) What do you spend time thinking about? What practices would be helpful for you to keep 'sober-minded' and to remember that 'the end is at hand'?
Onesimus
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
The Bible speaks on inflation?
As I sit here thinking about what just happened in my house I see God answering my prayer to help my wife & I react supernaturally instead of fleshly when “bad” things happen. Just after praying before laying it down for the night my wife noticed a dripping sound but couldn’t find where it originated. We eventually found that the ceiling of the lower level of our house had water spots that we had never noticed any other time. Upon further inspection we found that the ceiling was wet & that the water was coming from our furnace & water heater closet on the upper level. We came to see that the overflow pan & pipe going from it to the drain wasn’t sealed properly so the water had made a puddle & was seeping through the floor down to the ceiling of the lower level. You may be wondering how this has anything to do with inflation in the Bible right.
When this first happened my mind went reeling about the fact that due to the economic troubles in our nation my company hasn’t given management a raise in more than four years… & you guessed it I’m in lower management. So in essence I’ve received a pay cut because the cost of benefits has more than doubled & that has nothing to do with the cost of living pertaining to groceries, fuel, utilities, insurance, living expenses… etc. I began to think how difficult it is to save money & the issues we have that constantly arise.
Rev. 6 is about the seals being broken on the scroll that Christ took from the right hand (right hand symbolic of having all dominion, power & authority) of the One who is seated on the throne in heaven. Once read we see that each of the first four seals has to do with judgments authorized by the Lamb (Christ) upon those who dwell on the earth that DO NOT worship the Lamb. These earth dwellers are in stark contrast to those who live on earth & worship the Lamb. Everything in the book of Rev. is black & white, bad vs. good, light vs. darkness, the righteous kingdom of the Lamb vs. the wicked kingdom of the dragon… etc. (I think you get the picture). What is of major significance is what’s said in Rev 6:5-6…
When he opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come!” And I looked, and behold, a black horse! And its rider had a pair of scales in his hand. And I heard what seemed to be a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius, and do not harm the oil and wine!” (Revelation 6:5-6 ESV)
And its rider had a pair of scales in his hand…
What we notice here is the rider on the black horse having a pair of scales in his hand. These scales would be likened to a pair of scales used in biblical times during a season of scarcity/famine. These scales are not to be confused with the scales of justice. The point here is that a source of measurement is needed to ration out resources due to shortages. Shortages cause inflation & that goes for perceived shortages as well.
And I heard what seemed to be a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying…
The voice coming from the midst of the four living creatures would be none other than the voice of the Lamb that just appeared there in Rev. 5:6. According to the text this Lamb is now ruling over all inhabitants of heaven & earth... He has all glory & dominion. (Rev. 1:5-6; Rev. 5)
And I heard what seemed to be a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius,
So the Lamb states that a quart of wheat will be sold for a denarius. A person would work one day’s labor to receive one denarius (our equivalent to an eight hour shift). One quart of wheat was our equivalent to one meal. In normal circumstances it would cost 1/8 to 1/10 of a denarius to purchase one meal. What the voice from the midst of the four living creatures stated drove the price of one meal to a whole day’s wage. This is the price of one meal (one quart of wheat) inflated 800 to 1000%!! The same concept applies to the three quarts of barley. So we see inflation is used by the Lamb as an act of preliminary judgment on the inhabitants of the earth.
and do not harm the oil and wine!”
Now we see that this judgment of famine and or inflation (that can actually be triggered by any one of the first three “seal” judgments) is limited by the Lamb as well. These are preliminary judgments that keep reoccurring at different times & places on the earth until the 6th seal/final judgment is executed. These judgments aren’t comprehensive because of the following reasons:
1. It’s not all of the earth being conquered by military conquest (seal #1)
2. It’s not all of the people on the earth slaying (killing) one another (seal #2)
3. It’s not all resources/places (foods, fuels, countries, classes) effected simultaneously (seal #3)
4. It’s not all people that will die by being violently killed, famine, disease & killed by wild beast... it’s just a fourth of the earth (seal # 4)
We also see in Rev. 6:9-11 & chapter 7 the reason why these judgments are limited (subject to parameters) & are set as precursors to the final wrath to come. It’s for the sake of those who are and will become followers of Christ. We see that while these preliminary judgments are being executed by the Lamb the people that were purchased by Him for God (Rev. 5) are living on the earth as well. So Christ holds back the severity of His wrath for the sake of His people who are still on earth. This is why Peter says:
This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles, knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God, and that by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.
But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.
Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
(2 Peter 3:1-13 ESV)
Christ hasn’t come back to execute the full wrath of God because the number of those set apart to be martyred for the Faith (Rev 6:9-11) & also the number of those who will come to repentance have yet to do so.
So why is it important to understand & live according to what's just been covered? It’s all about the implications for our lives in this present age. The implications are many but here’s a few:
1. There’s a blessing for those that understand & keep/live according to what’s written in Rev… Rev. 1:3
2. Christ is in complete control of everything that is happening in our lives from the grandest to the minutest of details. He’s actually authorizing it.
3. Christ tells us that we are no longer considered slaves because slaves don’t know what the master’s doing. (John 15:15) The book of the Rev. of Jesus Christ is just that… it reveals what our Master is doing & through that it prepares us for all the things we’ll experience before His return.
4. Not only does this prepare us for what we’ll go through but it gives us a hope that unbelievers don’t have while we go through it. That all things work together for the good of those that love Him & are called according to His purpose. (Rom 8:28) The Rev. keeps emphasizing persevering to the end while giving us a beautiful picture of the end found nowhere else in Scripture. This picture causes us to fix our hope completely on the grace that’s to be given to us at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Pet 1:13)
5. We as believers experience all of the same trauma in life that unbelievers do… we get robbed, have cancer, experience death, accidents, birth mentally handicapped children & the list goes on & on… the difference between us & them is that we SHOULD (based off of Who we know & what we know of Him) react & live through it in a way that brings attention to the hope that we have in Christ therefore causing unbelievers to question what it is we have that they don’t.
So how did knowing that Christ from His throne is authorizing lack/inflation as a judgment help me not to jump into a self-indulged pity party?
1. It caused me to be thankful for the test because it made me to see that this is God keeping His promise to conform me to His image. My pastor has said that Honda doesn’t put their cars through rigorous testing to prove that they fail, Honda does it to prove that they don’t fail (Mark Vroegop; www.yourchurch.com)… in the same way God puts us through testing to prove to us He doesn’t fail therefore giving us a barometer for where we’re at spiritually. It helps me keep in mind that testing points out where my heart is in proximity to the heart of Christ. It helps me realign my focus back on the things that matter.
2. It helps me see the fruit of the Spirit at work in me in that He’s changing me & working out His will & Word in my life… causing me to trust that even though I can't physically see what I need He has already set aside all that I will need for what He knew was going to happen. (1 Pet 1:5-7)
3. That this trial is actually Him being faithful to me. (Ps 119:75)
4. That the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials & to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the Day of Judgment. (2 Pet 2:6-10)… all that to show how He takes care of His. (Matt 6:25-33)
Grace & Peace,
James Miles
When this first happened my mind went reeling about the fact that due to the economic troubles in our nation my company hasn’t given management a raise in more than four years… & you guessed it I’m in lower management. So in essence I’ve received a pay cut because the cost of benefits has more than doubled & that has nothing to do with the cost of living pertaining to groceries, fuel, utilities, insurance, living expenses… etc. I began to think how difficult it is to save money & the issues we have that constantly arise.
Rev. 6 is about the seals being broken on the scroll that Christ took from the right hand (right hand symbolic of having all dominion, power & authority) of the One who is seated on the throne in heaven. Once read we see that each of the first four seals has to do with judgments authorized by the Lamb (Christ) upon those who dwell on the earth that DO NOT worship the Lamb. These earth dwellers are in stark contrast to those who live on earth & worship the Lamb. Everything in the book of Rev. is black & white, bad vs. good, light vs. darkness, the righteous kingdom of the Lamb vs. the wicked kingdom of the dragon… etc. (I think you get the picture). What is of major significance is what’s said in Rev 6:5-6…
When he opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come!” And I looked, and behold, a black horse! And its rider had a pair of scales in his hand. And I heard what seemed to be a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius, and do not harm the oil and wine!” (Revelation 6:5-6 ESV)
And its rider had a pair of scales in his hand…
What we notice here is the rider on the black horse having a pair of scales in his hand. These scales would be likened to a pair of scales used in biblical times during a season of scarcity/famine. These scales are not to be confused with the scales of justice. The point here is that a source of measurement is needed to ration out resources due to shortages. Shortages cause inflation & that goes for perceived shortages as well.
And I heard what seemed to be a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying…
The voice coming from the midst of the four living creatures would be none other than the voice of the Lamb that just appeared there in Rev. 5:6. According to the text this Lamb is now ruling over all inhabitants of heaven & earth... He has all glory & dominion. (Rev. 1:5-6; Rev. 5)
And I heard what seemed to be a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius,
So the Lamb states that a quart of wheat will be sold for a denarius. A person would work one day’s labor to receive one denarius (our equivalent to an eight hour shift). One quart of wheat was our equivalent to one meal. In normal circumstances it would cost 1/8 to 1/10 of a denarius to purchase one meal. What the voice from the midst of the four living creatures stated drove the price of one meal to a whole day’s wage. This is the price of one meal (one quart of wheat) inflated 800 to 1000%!! The same concept applies to the three quarts of barley. So we see inflation is used by the Lamb as an act of preliminary judgment on the inhabitants of the earth.
and do not harm the oil and wine!”
Now we see that this judgment of famine and or inflation (that can actually be triggered by any one of the first three “seal” judgments) is limited by the Lamb as well. These are preliminary judgments that keep reoccurring at different times & places on the earth until the 6th seal/final judgment is executed. These judgments aren’t comprehensive because of the following reasons:
1. It’s not all of the earth being conquered by military conquest (seal #1)
2. It’s not all of the people on the earth slaying (killing) one another (seal #2)
3. It’s not all resources/places (foods, fuels, countries, classes) effected simultaneously (seal #3)
4. It’s not all people that will die by being violently killed, famine, disease & killed by wild beast... it’s just a fourth of the earth (seal # 4)
We also see in Rev. 6:9-11 & chapter 7 the reason why these judgments are limited (subject to parameters) & are set as precursors to the final wrath to come. It’s for the sake of those who are and will become followers of Christ. We see that while these preliminary judgments are being executed by the Lamb the people that were purchased by Him for God (Rev. 5) are living on the earth as well. So Christ holds back the severity of His wrath for the sake of His people who are still on earth. This is why Peter says:
This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles, knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God, and that by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.
But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.
Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
(2 Peter 3:1-13 ESV)
Christ hasn’t come back to execute the full wrath of God because the number of those set apart to be martyred for the Faith (Rev 6:9-11) & also the number of those who will come to repentance have yet to do so.
So why is it important to understand & live according to what's just been covered? It’s all about the implications for our lives in this present age. The implications are many but here’s a few:
1. There’s a blessing for those that understand & keep/live according to what’s written in Rev… Rev. 1:3
2. Christ is in complete control of everything that is happening in our lives from the grandest to the minutest of details. He’s actually authorizing it.
3. Christ tells us that we are no longer considered slaves because slaves don’t know what the master’s doing. (John 15:15) The book of the Rev. of Jesus Christ is just that… it reveals what our Master is doing & through that it prepares us for all the things we’ll experience before His return.
4. Not only does this prepare us for what we’ll go through but it gives us a hope that unbelievers don’t have while we go through it. That all things work together for the good of those that love Him & are called according to His purpose. (Rom 8:28) The Rev. keeps emphasizing persevering to the end while giving us a beautiful picture of the end found nowhere else in Scripture. This picture causes us to fix our hope completely on the grace that’s to be given to us at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Pet 1:13)
5. We as believers experience all of the same trauma in life that unbelievers do… we get robbed, have cancer, experience death, accidents, birth mentally handicapped children & the list goes on & on… the difference between us & them is that we SHOULD (based off of Who we know & what we know of Him) react & live through it in a way that brings attention to the hope that we have in Christ therefore causing unbelievers to question what it is we have that they don’t.
So how did knowing that Christ from His throne is authorizing lack/inflation as a judgment help me not to jump into a self-indulged pity party?
1. It caused me to be thankful for the test because it made me to see that this is God keeping His promise to conform me to His image. My pastor has said that Honda doesn’t put their cars through rigorous testing to prove that they fail, Honda does it to prove that they don’t fail (Mark Vroegop; www.yourchurch.com)… in the same way God puts us through testing to prove to us He doesn’t fail therefore giving us a barometer for where we’re at spiritually. It helps me keep in mind that testing points out where my heart is in proximity to the heart of Christ. It helps me realign my focus back on the things that matter.
2. It helps me see the fruit of the Spirit at work in me in that He’s changing me & working out His will & Word in my life… causing me to trust that even though I can't physically see what I need He has already set aside all that I will need for what He knew was going to happen. (1 Pet 1:5-7)
3. That this trial is actually Him being faithful to me. (Ps 119:75)
4. That the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials & to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the Day of Judgment. (2 Pet 2:6-10)… all that to show how He takes care of His. (Matt 6:25-33)
Grace & Peace,
James Miles
Preach the Gospel to yourself?
The modern Church owes a great debt to Jerry Bridges. It's largely through his teaching that our generation has learned to 'preach the gospel' to ourselves on a daily basis.
I don't plan on defending or explaining that concept in this post (though if people are interested, I can write another post later). Rather, I want to address something that I think we might be missing in some of our 'gospel-centered' fellowships.
I was reading Titus 3 this morning, and it says this in verses 1-2:
Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
I was praying as I read, and I was struck by the phrase 'to be ready for every good work.' It seems to me that God expects us to do good as a reflex. When something happens in our lives, rather than responding with anxiety, or anger, or indifference, or arguing, we are to respond by actively doing good, because we're ready to do so.
I asked God for help to do this. Then I started asking 'how?' How can I 'be ready for every good work'?
Then God opened my eyes to what's actually happening in this passage. Titus was Paul's missionary to Crete. He was a pastor and was sent to appoint pastors.
Here, Paul is telling him to remind the people what they're supposed to do. In other words, Titus, as a pastor, was to remind all the people how they were supposed to live.
The implication is that we need reminders about how we're to obey God.
This doesn't diminish the need we have for the Gospel. This passage is sandwiched between two passages that are about the Gospel, after all! The Gospel is taught here as the grounds by which we are to obey. We're empowered by hearing about the glory of God in saving sinners to obey him.
But that said, we also need reminders to obey! We need to be reminded about how we're to glorify God, even with regard to specific situations.
So here are some practical implications:
1) If you're a preacher, you need to preach both Gospel and Law.
2) You need to listen to your pastors as the teach you both Gospel and Law. Don't dismiss either as something you 'already know.' You need constant reminders of both.
3) If you're in a position of leadership in a church or in a household, you need to teach both Gospel and Law to those in your care.
4) As you read the Bible, you should be looking for what God has done to save you and for ways that you are to honor God in response to his saving work.
Onesimus
I don't plan on defending or explaining that concept in this post (though if people are interested, I can write another post later). Rather, I want to address something that I think we might be missing in some of our 'gospel-centered' fellowships.
I was reading Titus 3 this morning, and it says this in verses 1-2:
Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
I was praying as I read, and I was struck by the phrase 'to be ready for every good work.' It seems to me that God expects us to do good as a reflex. When something happens in our lives, rather than responding with anxiety, or anger, or indifference, or arguing, we are to respond by actively doing good, because we're ready to do so.
I asked God for help to do this. Then I started asking 'how?' How can I 'be ready for every good work'?
Then God opened my eyes to what's actually happening in this passage. Titus was Paul's missionary to Crete. He was a pastor and was sent to appoint pastors.
Here, Paul is telling him to remind the people what they're supposed to do. In other words, Titus, as a pastor, was to remind all the people how they were supposed to live.
The implication is that we need reminders about how we're to obey God.
This doesn't diminish the need we have for the Gospel. This passage is sandwiched between two passages that are about the Gospel, after all! The Gospel is taught here as the grounds by which we are to obey. We're empowered by hearing about the glory of God in saving sinners to obey him.
But that said, we also need reminders to obey! We need to be reminded about how we're to glorify God, even with regard to specific situations.
So here are some practical implications:
1) If you're a preacher, you need to preach both Gospel and Law.
2) You need to listen to your pastors as the teach you both Gospel and Law. Don't dismiss either as something you 'already know.' You need constant reminders of both.
3) If you're in a position of leadership in a church or in a household, you need to teach both Gospel and Law to those in your care.
4) As you read the Bible, you should be looking for what God has done to save you and for ways that you are to honor God in response to his saving work.
Onesimus
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