Unity and Community

Read 1 Timothy 5.

There is no place like a local church.  Everyone is freely invited to attend and participate.  Men and women, boys and girls, young and old, wealthy and poor, racially diverse, saved and lost, and on various levels of spiritual growth meet together.  They sing together.  They pray together.  They learn together.  They worship God together.  They serve together.  The assembly of the local church is where real community may be seen in action.

The locale of the church (a city, town, rural area) is referred to as a community but, in fact, may not be.  Community is rooted in unity.  Many civic communities are enormously divided along every line imaginable.  What unites people is a common interest, a common cause, a mutual enjoyment, and/or a mutual commitment.

In every writing by the Apostle Paul there was an appeal for unity.  The Holy Spirit guided this by dealing strongly with the issues that divided the local church and by delivering instructions regarding relationships.  Here in chapter 5, the congregation is commanded (v.7) to treat each other as members of a healthy family.  Encouraging one another in love as fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers should be the norm.  How a congregation treats its widows is one indication of the health of a local church. 

What brings a church of Christ together in unity is our mutual faith in Jesus, our desire for the word of God, our pursuit to grow in our relationship with God, and our obedience in sharing Gospel with others.  Maintaining such unity requires work.

The responsibility for community within a local church falls upon the leadership.  "...to equip the saints for the work of the ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God..." (Ephesians 4:12-13a)  Jesus said, "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:35)

 

5 areas of training for Godliness

Read 1 Timothy 4.

The Apostle Paul wrote to a relatively young Pastor Timothy to encourage him as he faced some ministry challenges.  All false teachings are deceitful in that they have been made to sound Christian but, in fact, are not.  False teaching is always energized by demonic spirits.  In truth, such doctrines and their communicators are insincere liars, whose consciences become so callous they no longer understand right from wrong, moral from immoral, or God's word from man's word.

What is a true follower of Christ to do?  There is a negative and a positive answer in verse 7.
Negative:  "Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths."
Positive: "Rather train yourself for godliness."

There are five key areas where this training must take place and, thus, "set an example" of godliness for others.
1. In speech.
All words have meaning.  One of the devices of the Devil is to change the definition and usage of words.  This easily proved by simply listening to our culture.  Jesus stated that we will be held accountable for our words.  Paul wrote, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."  If our speech is not giving grace to others, then we need to examine our communication before the Lord.
2. In conduct.
God has a claim on our behavior.  All conduct either honors or dishonors God.  Titus 2:1-8 contains some general expectations of younger and older, men and women, slave and free, "so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior."  Our conduct communicates the genuineness of our commitment to Christ.
3. In love.
This refers to the self-sacrificing kind of love; the kind God has demonstrated to us by sending Jesus to die for our sins.  There is no room for selfishness and pride.  To serve others effectively requires a love that flows from humility.
4. In faith.
There is no substitute for having absolute confidence in the Lord and the Scriptures.  Without trusting God's sovereignty in all situations, we will become shaken by circumstances.  Without knowing and obeying the word of God, our faith will sway in the winds of cultural opinions.  It is this confidence that spurs us on to tell others the good news of Jesus.
5. In purity.
This is the price of living a godly life.  We are to "flee youthful passions" (2 Timothy 2:22).  "Submit yourselves therefore to God.  Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.  Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (James 4:7-8)

 

The mystery is Solved

Read 1 Timothy 3.

From Genesis 3 and through the writings of the prophets, a Messiah had been promised to come.  Though directly stated by the Lord, or guided by the Holy Spirit, the words were mysterious in that they were not fully explained.  By faith, those living in the days of the Old Testament believed what God said and looked forward to the day these things would be fulfilled.

A few of the hundreds of examples include:
Genesis 3:15 "I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head and you shall bruise his heel."

Genesis 12:3 "...in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."

Isaiah 7:14 "Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."

Isaiah 53:5 "But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace."

Micah 5:2 "But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come for me on who is to be ruler in Israel."

But who is this one and when would these things take place?  How can a person be human and inflict Satan?  How can one die for the sins of others and then be ruler over Israel?  These and other Old Testament statements continued to be believed though mysterious.  That is, until Jesus came.  On this side of the cross, we can look back and put the pieces together.

In the last verse of chapter 3, the Apostle Paul quoted what is evidently a hymn of his day.  I am indebted to A. Duane Litfin of Dallas Seminary for his writings on this chapter.  The so-called secret of godliness is found in Jesus Christ alone.  Here then is our confession of faith regarding Jesus.
1. The Incarnation.  He is God in the flesh.  The Virgin Mary did in fact conceive by the Holy Spirit and bear a son.  The angel declared Him to be "Immanuel, which means God with us" (Matthew 1:23) His name is Jesus (Savior) "for he will save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21)  His death on the cross was substitutionary in full and final payment for the sin of the world.
2. The Resurrection.  As David mysteriously penned Psalm 16:10, this "holy one" would not stay in the grave.  God's power over life and death was demonstrated for all to see.  The veracity of all that God said became clear.  The tomb of Jesus is empty.
3. The Exaltation.  Indeed, Jesus dealt the blow to the Devil and his minions.  "He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him." (Colossians 2:15)
4. The Proclamation.  Before Jesus ascended back into heaven, He charged His followers to be His witnesses of the truth and to tell this message of good news around the world.  (Acts 1:8)
5. The Salvation.  As Peter proclaimed, "There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)  This life-changing, eternity changing message continues to be in evidence to this day.
6. The Ascension.  "He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things." (Ephesians 4:10).

But the story is not over.  Jesus promised to come again.  On that day, "every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:10-11)

Marching off to War

Read 1 Timothy 2.

In chapter 1, the Apostle Paul urged Timothy to "wage the good warfare."  The teaching of spiritual alternatives to Jesus and ungodly lifestyles are not merely differing ideas.  They, in fact, are the weapons of the devil in the ultimate spiritual war for the souls of humanity.  That is why in every instance the Holy Spirit guided Paul to respond in writing so decisively.

"For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, we are not waging a war according to the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.  We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:4)

How should a follower of Christ respond when government leaders, religious leaders, friends, neighbors and family members hold to beliefs in opposition to the written word of God?  How should we behave in this spiritual war?

Our fleshly weapons of anger that leads to revenge or responding in kind with slander and hurt-filled words, for example, only lead us to sin.  As a result, the genuineness of our faith may be severely damaged.  If we are to be effective and see the power of God change lives, we ourselves must obey the Scriptures.  Galatians 5:16-24 commands us to be controlled by the Holy Spirit.  If He is in control our attitudes and speech will be marked by verses 22-23.  In Ephesians 6:10-18, the Christian is told to "put on the armor of God" for this war in order to be "strong in the Lord".

Okay.  The Holy Spirit is in control.  I have my armor on.  Now, what is the first thing I should be doing to combat the spiritual forces of evil?  "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions..."
People are so quick to criticize and defame others with whom they disagree.  This has become a political sport on social media in America.  It makes one wonder if those who claim to be believers in Jesus have invested regular, intentional time praying for that person.

How should we be praying?  Two prayer requests:
1. "...that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way." (v.2b)
This is a prayer for us; our personal protection and our personal behavior.  When opposed, what do the enemies of Christ see in us?  There will be exceptions, but the principle of Proverbs 16:7 should be our goal.  "When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him."
2. "This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." (vv.3-4)
Often, we are tempted to think that some are so evil and so rejecting of Jesus that they will never be saved.  But we do not know that.  The Apostle Paul is exhibit A.  Also, keep in mind that the high ruler in Paul's day was Nero.  Four times in the first six verses of this chapter the word "all" appears.  "Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all." (v.6)

Yet, many have never prayed for the leaders of their country or local civic leaders individually by name and in this way.   Making a prayer list of those who are in authority and those who need Jesus is the first marching step in spiritual warfare.

The goal of Bible Teaching

Read 1 Timothy 1.

Paul charged his younger protege Timothy to stay in Ephesus.  He was to deal forthrightly with the false teachers in that congregation.  Too many churches have prided themselves in tolerating differing views of doctrine.  But the Scriptures say otherwise.  Paul even rejected two named men in this chapter and announced that he had "handed them over to Satan" after they made "shipwreck of their faith" (v20).

What characterized teaching that made it false?  
These "certain persons" communicated a smorgasbord of different beliefs.  With their faith in Jesus, they mixed in "myths and endless genealogies", speculations, and "vain discussions" (v.6).  And, this they did with "confident assertions" (v.7).

Their approach to preaching and teaching greatly deviated from what the Apostle Paul had done.  He taught "thus says the Lord".  It was God's word that was to be communicated, not the opinions of others and certainly not the various views of those who differ.

Why did these teachers behave this way?
Paul said they had a desire to teach, but they were "without understanding either what they are saying or the things about which they make confident assertions."  In other words, they did not know what they were talking about.  They had not studied God's word.  Instead, they turned to their culture and popular opinions for their subject material.  Indeed, they had "wandered away" (v.6) from the truth.  In the final analysis, their desire to teach amounted to nothing more than egomania.  Also, by implication in the following verses, these false communicators were living ungodly lifestyles.

What is the goal of communicating God's word?
Obedience to sound doctrine from the Scriptures changes lives both here and for eternity.  God has not given us a Bible for our information only, but for our transformation in order to behave as the people of God.  Paul makes this clear as he names seven ungodly behaviors and adds, "whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine" (vv.9-10).  Without the Scriptures we would not know what God expects of us.

The Apostle summarized the goal in one powerful verse (v.5).
Love.  Roberta Mounce wrote that this type of love "is not a romantic enchantment but a commitment of the will to place the welfare of others as a first priority."
1. Love from a pure heart.  This should cause us to examine ourselves and eliminate all selfish motives in serving Christ.
2. Love from a good conscience.  Freedom of conscience is what the Psalmist prayed for.  "Search me, O God, and know my heart!  Try me and know my thoughts!  And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlastings!" (Psalm 139:23-24)
3. Love from a sincere faith.  There is no room for hypocrisy here.  One's faith in Jesus is to be real and evident.  One's absolute confidence in the inerrant, infallible, unchanging word of God must be genuine.  

Why do things seem to be getting Worse?

Read 2 Thessalonians 2.

The Thessalonian believers were confused about the second coming of Christ.  Paul had personally taught them and even encouraged them about this in his first letter.  But, false teaching caused them to be "shaken in the mind or alarmed."  Questions arose such as, "Did Jesus already come and they missed it?" and "If Jesus is coming, then why are things in this world getting worse instead of better?"

According to verse two, evidently, they experienced a concerted three-pronged attack.  First, a demonic spirit tried to infect their thinking.  Next, someone came with teaching a false doctrine.  Then, a forged letter was received pretending to be the Apostle Paul with contrary teaching.  Like many today who have not studied the truth of God's word for themselves or have been wrongly taught, confusion and ignorance has robbed them of their joy, comfort, and hope.

In a few short verses, Paul lays out God's plan for the future of this world.
1. The world will be in open rebellion. (v.3)
As he wrote to Pastor Timothy, "...evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." (2 Timothy 3:13).  Such rebellion is already at work in the world (v.7).  Each generation witnesses the further erosion of moral and spiritual values to the point where all lifestyles and behaviors become increasingly acceptable, except holiness and moral purity.  While discrimination of any kind is unlawful, one who dares to live by the Biblical standards of what is right may be openly ostracized and ridiculed.  To the government, wrong has become right and right has become wrong.  This is bold rebellion against God Himself.

2. The man of lawlessness will be revealed. (v.3, 9-10)
The world exists in a leadership vacuum.  Where is the one who can unite the world and bring the promise of peace?  There is coming such a person who will seek to destroy all worship of anyone and anything, except himself.  This Satanically energized one will be none other than the prophesied Antichrist.  Both Daniel and Revelation provide the details.  He will offer himself as the solution to the world's problems.  He will perform "false signs and wonders" in order to deceive "those who are perishing," "those who "refused to love the truth and so be saved," those "who did not believe the truth" (v.12).

3. The Holy Spirit will be removed. (v.6)
Note the phrase "in his time."  God is in control and will be right on schedule in fulfilling all His plans.  The Holy Spirit first indwelt believers in Acts 2.  With the catching away of believers (living and dead), as Paul explained in 1 Thessalonians 4, there will be no earthly restraints left against worldwide rebellion and the Antichrist's rule.

4. The Lord Jesus will return. (v.8)
The Antichrist and all his armies will be killed "with the breath of his mouth."  This annihilation of the enemies of Christ is graphically described in Revelation 19:11-21.  "From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations" (Revelation 19:15).  The word of God is often compared to a sword.  Just as God spoke the creation into existence, at His word the rebellion will be put down.

So, in light of knowing how this story will end, believers should not be disturbed in their faith by world events.  Instead, we are to "stand firm" and "hold to" what we have been taught from the Scriptures (v.15).  Sound doctrine comforts us and encourages us to "every good work and word" (v.16).

Whose side are you On?

Read 2 Thessalonians 1.

Abraham Lincoln was once asked if he thought God was on his side.  He replied, "Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side.  My greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right."  The context of that quote had to do with the Civil War.  Of even greater concern, and what should be the first priority for every human, is to spiritually be on right side of eternity with God.

The Thessalonians endured suffering, persecution, and affliction due to their faith in Jesus.  However, through it all, by the grace of God, they remained steadfast.  The Apostle Paul commended them because, despite the hardships, they were growing spiritually and increasing in their love for one another (v.3).

Some would ask, "What is God doing?  Does He not see their sufferings?  Why doesn't He intervene and do something?"  The answer is that God does see, He does know, and His plan for justice is at work.  The Lord is not unmindful when a believer suffers for His namesake.  There is coming a day when Jesus will deliver both earthly justice at His return and eternal justice at the Great White Throne.  The second coming of Christ is described in verses 7-8 as personal, visible, and victorious over all His enemies.  His appearance will be as attractive and devastating as a flaming fire from heaven.  An innumerable army of angels will accompany Him.  

In the final analysis, there are only two types of people described in this chapter with two very different eternal destinies.

1. Those who never placed the personal faith in Jesus. (vv.7-9)
First, the earthly judgment.  When Jesus returns, He will be "inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus."  In other words, He will persecute the persecutors.  Additional details are presented in Revelation 19:11-21.  But there is more.

Second, the eternal judgment.  The punishment will not end with physical death.  It will last forever.  They will be banished "away from the presence of the Lord".  There will be no party and no camaraderie.  It will be an eternity of loneliness, regret, and unspeakable torment.  Jesus provided a brief glimpse of what is to come in Luke 16:19-31.  Revelation 20:11-15 foretells of all unbelievers being cast into an eternal lake of fire.

2. Those who have personally believed the good news of Jesus. (vv.7, 10-12)
On that day, the people of God will experience relief.  Jesus will be glorified in them.  Everyone will marvel at the glorious appearing of the Son of God and His return to earth.  He will establish His earthly kingdom and those who were once rejected will rule and reign with Christ (Revelation 20:4-8).  After the eternal judgments have taken place, believers will spend eternity with Jesus in a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21). 

The unbelieving world may consider the followers of Jesus with little to no value.  Christ declares us as having eternal worth (worthy).  This is our blessed hope.

The Power of Praise

Read 1 Thessalonians 5.

If someone wants to know the will of God for their lives, the starting place is the New Testament.  Five times in the New Testament we are told "this is the will of God."  A life that pleases the Lord is dependent upon the intentional implementation of these declared behaviors.

In chapter four, we read, "For this is the will of God, your sanctification, that you abstain from sexual immorality." (4:3)  If one is not disciplining themselves to live a life of sexual purity and holiness, pleasing God will not be possible.  And, then here in 5:16-18 is another one.

Praise is the expression of approval.  When we praise God, we accept, or approve of, what is happening as part of God's plan for our lives.  If we truly believe that "all things work together for good" (Romans 8:28), then we are free to praise God for each situation just as it is.  Our human nature loves to complain and grumble and withhold any praise to God until the outcome is to our liking.  But that is the opposite of faith.  Unbelief says, "Seeing is believing."  Faith declares, "Believing is seeing."

A follower of Jesus maintains focus, not on the circumstance, but on the One who controls the circumstances.  Someone once said, "When God is all you have, you will discover that He is all you need."

1. "Rejoice always."
No one needs Jesus to be happy and excited when things are going well.  It requires faith, as an act of the will, to do so during times of adversity.  That makes no sense to the unbeliever.  But the God of the Bible is the sovereign controller of all things.  When our trust is in Him, we may rest assured that "his mercy (lovingkindness) is over all he had made" (Psalm 145:9).

2. "Pray without ceasing."
Confusion always comes in times of great need.  We believe God but we often do not know what He is doing or why.  A true believer trusts the Lord even when they do not understand.  God loves it when we cast our total dependence upon Him.  As our minds spin throughout the day, going over and over what is or what is not happening, we are to turn our anxieties into prayer.  Talking to God about our concerns, our desires, and surrendering our wills to His is to be an on-going conversation.

3. "Give thanks in all circumstances."
Each of these three is a test of our faith, not of God.  Perhaps, the toughest one is to express thanks when life does not seem to be going in our favor.  How can someone be thankful when a disaster just hit?  The answer lies in the clear understanding and commitment that this world is not our home.  We are only here on assignment as an ambassador of Christ for a few short years, at best.  The ability to give thanks in advance of the results is an indicator of the work of the Holy Spirit and His grace to us.   We can be thankful that our story is not over yet.  God has a plan and He is at work on our behalf, even when we do not see it.  "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)

Rejoice, when?  Always.
Pray, how?  Without ceasing.
Give thanks, how often?  In all circumstances.

3 essential commitments to please God

Read 1 Thessalonians 4.

Paul taught the Thessalonian believers how to live in a manner that pleases God.  These instructions were not from human ideas, or denominational rules, but his teaching are in fact from the Lord Jesus Christ (v.2).

The focus in this chapter became very personal.  Knowing Jesus is only the beginning.  Living a lifestyle that pleases God requires daily discipline.  There is no discipleship without personal discipline.

1. Live in holiness with one another. (vv.1-8)
The Bible is not unclear concerning sexuality.  The subject is taught in plain terms both in the Old and the New Testaments.  God's standards are in writing and do not change with the changing winds of culture, political correctness, or denominational votes.  Sex outside the marriage commitment between one man and one woman is an abomination.  Jesus even warned about one's lustful thoughts turning to sin (Matthew 5:28).

Sanctification means purity or holiness.  The Bible teaches two aspects of our sanctification.  We are positionally sanctified, cleansed from our sin, at the moment of salvation.  We are then to be practically living as a sanctified people and daily dealing with our sin (1 John 1:9).  Our behaviors are to be pure and holy from the inside out.  Notice the list of things about our conduct in just these few verses.  We are responsible to "control" ourselves in this area.  Lustful passions are signs of those who do not know God.  "Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God..." (v.8)  It is not only sin against God, it involves sin against others.

Five times in the New Testament we are told "this is the will of God."  You do not have to pray about it.  It is not open for debate.  It is absolute.  And, living in sexual purity is one of those five.

2. Love one another. (vv.9-12)
Paul had already mentioned this to them.  They were already doing this.  Indeed, their good testimony of how they treated each other had actually influenced other churches.  His reminder here to them is not only for the internal health of the congregation.  Their manner of life displayed to "outsiders" the difference Christ makes.

3. Encourage one another. (vv.13-18)
Nothing pleases God more than believers who live with moment by moment anticipation of the Lord's return.  "...but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.  And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure." (1 John 3:2b-3)  Sanctification and the Lord's return go hand in hand.  Those who fail to regularly preach and teach what used to be called "the blessed hope" rob the people of a main source of encouragement.

The basis of our hope is fixed in our steadfast belief in Jesus' resurrection, in Jesus' return, and our reunion with all the saints of God.  "Encourage one another with these words."

How to pray for the Church

Read 1 Thessalonians 3.

Mutual love and care for one another is an indicator of a healthy congregation of believers.  They love God and they are concerned for the personal welfare of each other.

The Apostle Paul endured great affliction and suffering as a result of spreading the news of Jesus.  As he taught the word of God to the converts in Thessalonica, he also "kept telling them beforehand that we were to suffer persecution" (v.4).  Rejection by those who reject Jesus is to be expected.  But when the persecution came, the church worried about Paul and his well-being.  At the same time, Paul anguished over how the congregation was holding up as they likewise experienced such distress for their faith from the tempter himself (v.5).

He sent Timothy to Thessalonica to check on them and to encourage them.  Later, he wrote to Pastor Timothy, "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2 Timothy 3:12)  Here he wrote, "We are destined for this" (v.3b).  Why is this so?  Before a person receives Jesus as their Savior, whether they know it or not, is following the disobedient will of Satan (Ephesians 2:2).  But when Jesus changes their lives, that person switches sides in this spiritual war.  They become a soldier of the cross with a new uniform, following the orders of a new Commander, marching to the beat of a different drum, and fighting against the very things that they used to fight for.

When the positive report came back, it was an answer to Paul's prayers for them.  "For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord." (v.8)  One could almost hear "whew!"  How did Paul pray for them during this episode and following?  And, how should we be praying for each other?

1. Pray for opportunities to help each other mature spiritually. (v10)
This is a lifelong process.  "Until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ..." (Ephesians 4:13); in other words, until we are just like Jesus.  Until then, we have work to do, to teach, to listen, to learn, and to practice this new life.  No one can accomplish this alone.  We need each other more than ever.

2. Pray for increasing love for each other. (v.12)
Jesus said, "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:35).  This is not possible unless we intentionally take the time to know other believers personally and involve ourselves in their lives.  It requires knowing about their needs, not just their names.  It means we respond appropriately when there is a need.

3. Pray for each other's holiness. (v.13)
The goal of Paul's prayer was that their hearts would be established.  The evidence of a heart that is resolutely set on Jesus is a lifestyle that is blameless and holy.  Our new life in Christ is on display in what we do and what we do not do.  People around us hear our words and witness our behaviors every day.  Do they see the difference in us?  And, overarching is the understanding that we want to be ready at any moment to be standing in presence of our Holy Lord.

The kind of minister every church Needs

Read 1 Thessalonians 2.

The Roman Empire was full of traveling philosophers and wandering religious charlatans.  Unbelieving Jews criticized Paul for being just like that.  They were saying that he lacked love and care for these Thessalonian Christians.  After all, he started this church and then left them.  What is more, they accused Paul of only wanting to take advantage of this church for his own personal profit.

But, in response, the Apostle Paul evidences his firsthand knowledge of the people.  Four times in the first twelve verses of chapter two, he used the term "you know".  Despite the statements by the critics, this church knew otherwise.  Paul had proved his genuineness to them.  He left them a powerful example of the absolute essential elements of a true servant of God that every church needs.

1. The Message. (vv.1-3)
First and foremost was the declaration of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).  If that message is not being proclaimed with urgency for people to respond in faith, then that is not a New Testament church.  It is only a spiritually empty religious gathering.  Note that Paul could have made excuses due to his own personal sufferings.  He could have focused on those experiences to gain sympathy and support.  Instead, he preached Jesus with even more boldness.

To represent the Lord, one must have confidence in this life changing message.  The word of God (v.13) is without "error or impurity or any attempt to deceive" (v.3).  There can be no hidden agendas in what the minister says or who he is.

2. The Motive behind the Message. (vv.4-6)
He never altered, downplayed, or ignored parts of the word of God in order to please the people.  His true motive was to please an audience of One.  It was not his message.  These were not his people.  This was not his opportunity.  The results were not his.  All of these things belong to the Lord.  Therefore, he did not employ the tactics of the false teachers: flattery, greed and seeking personal glory.

Paul knew all too well that he would one day stand before the Lord and give an account of not only the message he delivered but the motive of why he was there.

3. The Manner behind the Ministry. (vv.7-19)
In great contrast to what his accusers were saying, Paul presented three metaphors to describe his manner in ministering to the people.  Each carries a context of intimate family relationships.
-A Nursing Mother.  No one is more loving and gentle than a mother of newborn baby.  Attention is given around the clock to the health, feeding, cleanliness, and care of that child.  The Thessalonians were Paul's spiritual children.  Notice the words he used in writing of his manner toward them: gentle, being affectionately desirous, to share our own selves, "you had become very dear to us."
-A Working Brother.  Paul did not come to boss them but to work alongside them to reach others and to build the ministry.  He even worked to support himself so as not to be a burden upon this new church.  As a result, his life had been transparent.  They watched his behavior in real life circumstances.  His conduct proved to be "holy and righteous and blameless."
-A Caring Father.  Three aspects of what a dad does are mentioned here.  There are times when a father must exhort or make strong, positive appeals.  Second, along with exhorting, children need to be encouraged with soothing, comforting, confidence-building words.  Third, fathers must charge or implore children toward right behavior.  This may involve a confrontation.

The ministry goal of all these actions is so that each person will "walk in a manner worthy of God" (v.12).

3 differences Jesus Makes

Read 1 Thessalonians 1.

Imagine for a moment that your pastor met one of your neighbors.  As the pastor began to tell them about Jesus, the neighbor interrupted to say that they already heard the gospel from you.  That is akin to what happened to the Apostle Paul.  In verse 8, as Paul endeavored to proclaim the good news in the regions of Macedonia and Achaia, they had already heard the message from the Thessalonians.

But it was not only the words of the message that had been presented.  These Thessalonians backed it up with unmistakable evidences of their changed lives.  When one embraces a true faith in Christ, they become a new person (2 Corinthians 5:17).  What were those noticeable differences?  How had Jesus transformed them?

In verses 9 and 10, we have their public testimony, not from them but, repeated by those who knew them.
1. They were headed in a new direction.
Feeling sorry for one's sin is not enough.  The Scriptures consistently calls for repentance; that is, making a 180 degree turn in life direction.  They had turned their backs on their old life and everyone knew it.  This involved a decisive break from their sin and the sinful habits of their past.  "For a godly sorrow produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret..." (2 Corinthians 7:10)

2. They worshiped a new Deity.
Before, they had given themselves to the false gods of their culture.  The deities of Greek Mythology were just that--myths.  The idols were only pieces of wood or other materials made by human hands.  The so-called spiritual deities had been made-up by human imagination.  But when they heard the message of Jesus, they turned from those empty and sinful practices to a personal relationship with the one and only Living God.  He alone can forgive and cleanse from sin.  Only the Lord of Heaven personally sees, hears, knows, cares, and is actively present in our daily lives.  "Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: 'I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god." (Isaiah 44:6)

3. They received a new destiny.
A true believer in Jesus has been saved from the eternal wrath of God.  Faith in the resurrected Christ delivers us.  While we remain on earth for a relatively few years, we are to be displaying our new life and anticipating the return of Jesus.  The second coming of Christ is mentioned about once in every thirteen verses in the New Testament.  Every chapter in 1 Thessalonians ends with the hope of Christ's return.  We who personally know Jesus, have been saved, delivered from the awful judgment of God, and have been given an eternal hope and a home in heaven. 

Who would not desire that change in their destiny?

3 basic needs in communicating your Faith

Read Colossians 4.

The Apostle Paul was a prisoner in Rome, but he was not alone.  A company of no less than eight men are mentioned in this chapter who were there ministering to his needs.  Embracing and then proclaiming the message that all, Gentile and Jew, may have their sins forgiven by faith in Jesus initially caused his arrest in Jerusalem.  But he never complained, and he never stopped communicating his faith.

Through his letters, he kept on encouraging others to be bold in sharing the gospel of Christ.  Here, he admonished the Colossians with three basic needs in order to be faithful witnesses for Jesus.

1. Be persistent in your prayers (v.2)
Specifically, by name, who are those you are praying to receive Christ?  This is a spiritual battle and requires perseverance.  "Continue", "be devoted", never give up in pleading to the Lord on their behalf that they will be drawn to Jesus.  "And he (Jesus) told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart." (Luke 18:1)  Why keep praying when we do not see any change?  "Being watchful" and staying alert with anticipation is what praying in faith is all about.  And, "with thanksgiving" means that we are expressing gratitude for what God is already doing, even though we may not see it.

2. Be wise in your walk (v.5)
People who do not know Jesus are constantly watching our lives to see if we are genuine in our faith.  Every interaction with people can either open a door for the gospel or slam it shut.  How we need God's wisdom to know when to speak and what to say at those moments of opportunity.  A good deal of applied wisdom is in the use of our time.  Are we intentionally investing time with those who do not know Jesus to see if and when their hearts will be open?

3. Be seasoned in your speech (v.6)
Not only is the message important but we must pay attention to how we communicate.  The tone of one's manner within a relationship may make all the difference.  People need to know that we love them.  Paul instructed that we are to always "be gracious".  In a world that is too often rude and crude, gracious people can gain a hearing.  Then, the Apostle added that our speech needs to also be "seasoned with salt".  An appropriate dash of salt can make things more appetizing.  Salt will make one thirsty.  A great example of verse 6 in action is found in John 4, as Jesus spoke with the woman at the well.  What she heard motivated her to want to know more.

What does a Christian look like?

Read Colossians 3.

The similarities between this chapter and Ephesians 4-5 are inescapable.  The Holy Spirit guided the Apostle Paul to write similar admonitions in many of his other letters.  These consistent statements explain the bedrock of what a true follower of Jesus looks like.

The basic picture is that when one places their eternal faith in Christ, they become a new person from the inside out (2 Corinthians 5:17).  They are to consider the old life before Christ to be dead (Romans 6:8).  Receiving Jesus is compared to a resurrection to life (Colossians 3:1).  This new life is no longer marked by "I" but Christ (Galatians 2:20).  Since life is outwardly evident for all to see, true faith in Jesus is impossible to hide.  It influences our way of thinking, speaking and behaving in all circumstances.  Others can see if you have a genuine faith.  

Some of the sinful habits of the old self are listed in this chapter.  The responsibility of a believer is to "put to death" (v.5), "put them all away" (v.8), and "put off" (v.9) every one of those indicators of existence without Christ.  Instead, we submit to the One who is our life (v.4) and seek to please Him in all things.  We are "God's chosen ones, holy and beloved" (v.12).  Now, we must discipline ourselves to act like it.  "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (v.17).

So, what does that look like exactly?  After a list of positive Christian traits in verses 12-13, he adds three more hallmarks of this new life.
1. Put on love. (v.14)
If we implement the character of verses 12-13 with a commitment to love people, we have provided the basis for an environment of living in relational harmony.

2. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. (v.15)
Hurting people, hurt people.  They resent what happened to them.  When we personally embrace God's forgiveness and trust His loving sovereignty in our circumstances, we experience His peace and gratitude in all things.  This peace becomes evident to others and allows us the freedom to minister to their needs.

3. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly. (v.16)
There can be no spiritual growth without one immersing themselves in the Scriptures.  Note: this is not just for Sundays, a class to take, or group meeting.  The truth of God's word is to be "in you", and not a little, but abundantly!  The rest of this verse describes how this commitment to the Bible will be outwardly displayed for all to see.

4 warnings against Religion

Read Colossians 2.

"...Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (vv.3b-4)

So, without Jesus what can a person do concerning wisdom and knowledge?  They are limited at best and left to their own imaginations.  Everyone depends all day every day upon facts and natural laws.  However, there can be no understanding as to how and why those things exist without Christ.  And, the devil is eager to pounce upon such opportunities to feed rebellious minds with man-made theories and systems of spiritual thought to believe absolutely anything but God's word.

The Gnostics attempted to gain a foothold into the church at Colossae.  They did not dismiss faith in Jesus altogether.  They mixed a mere human Jesus with intellectualism and some of the Old Testament Law to come up with a worthless religion.  The Apostle Paul took on these false teachers point by point so that no one needed to be confused or bothered by any contrary doctrine.

For the second time in two chapters, it is stated that Jesus is God in the flesh (1:19, 2:9).  With that we are given four warnings concerning false teaching.
1. Let no one delude you. (v.4)
The human approach to life is based upon "plausible" and persuasive arguments.  They sound reasonable on the surface, at least.  Those who present them are well-educated and leaders in their field of research and study.   But a theory is not a fact.  When analyzed thoroughly much more faith is required to believe their views than simple faith in Jesus.

2. Let no one distract you. (v.8)
So-called truth-seekers without Jesus will endeavor to piece together their own way of understanding life and spiritual things.  Paul warned against being taken captive by "philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ."  Christians may stand firm with full confidence in light of such challenges.  "We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:5)

3. Let no one decide for you. (v.16)
The false teachers sought to judge the followers of Jesus by carrying over some of the Old Testament rituals and outward observances.  But, those things were temporary and only foreshadowed the reality of Christ.  Since Jesus came, we are no longer under that Law with its offerings of blood sacrifices, legalistic judgments of spirituality, and observances such as not working on Saturday.  Our focus, as believers, is to live each day filled with the Holy Spirit, pleasing the Lord who saved us.

4. Let no one disqualify you. (v.18)
Spiritism is alive and well.  If Satan cannot delude and distract people with intellectual thought or religious practice, then he will employ some element of an immaterial, spiritual system to enslave them and keep them in their sin.  Each generation has had a self-proclaimed prophet or guru that captivated followers.  They have claimed to have seen an angel and received a special message.  They have claimed a level of enlightenment that others do not have.  They claim a unique method of self-improvement of one kind or another.  The list of charlatans is endless.    "These indeed have an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value..." (v.23).  Jesus said regarding the devil, "there is no truth in him...he is a liar and the father of lies." (John 8:43-44)

Presenting the only real Jesus

Read Colossians 1.

Being a prisoner in Rome did not stop Paul from writing to churches.  This was especially true when he heard churches were being influenced by false teachers.  The challenge to the Colossians was Gnosticism.   Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle Paul systematically answered the errors of the Gnostics and bolstered the confidence of the believers in Jesus.

The threat here was a strange mixture of a human Jesus (not God in the flesh) with Old Testament Law and the pseudo-elitism of philosophical thought.  Those who followed this line of thinking counted themselves intellectually superior to those who only trusted in Jesus by faith.

So, in response, the letter begins with three solid and unchangeable foundations of a true faith.
1. Who Jesus is. (vv.15-19)
True Christianity is not about a philosophy, but a Person.  It is not a religion, but a relationship.  One of the finest and most succinct depictions of Jesus is found here.
-He is the Creator of all things, material and immaterial.  Nothing exists that He did not call into existence.  Therefore, any theory or philosophical thought to the contrary is a direct affront to the Son of God.
-He is the Sustainer of all things.  It is Jesus who established and holds together the entire creation.
-He is the Head of the body of believers, called the church.
-He is the Beginning, or first, in the resurrection from the dead.
-He is to be preeminent in all things as Lord of all.
-He is fully God.
Any other Jesus is a false Jesus that never existed.

2. What Jesus did. (vv.13--14, 20-22)
-He delivered us from the dark domain of our slavery to sin.
-He transferred us into His marvelous kingdom and family.
-He redeemed us through the sacrifice of His shed blood on the cross.
-He forgave us of our sin by His grace and faith in Him alone.
-He reconciled us to Himself, so we have peace with God.

What we are to be doing. (vv.24-29)
Our calling and opportunities may not match Paul's experiences, but every believer in Jesus has been called, gifted, and given a holy assignment to serve the Lord.  We are responsible to "administer" or manage our service (KJV="dispensation", NIV="commission", ESV="stewardship").  Regardless of when, where, or how we serve, our goal is identical.  Verses 28-29 is worthy of our memorization so we do not forget why God has left us on earth for a time.
-To do what? "Him we proclaim"
-To whom?  "warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom"
-Why?  "that we may present everyone mature in Christ."
-What is required of me?  "For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me."

How to behave in Church

Read Philippians 4.

In chapter two, the Holy Spirit guided the Apostle Paul to lay a foundation of what a believer's attitude should be.  The example of Christ was one of humility.  He did not demand His rights, but put them aside and willingly suffered to meet our need for redemption.  Now, in the closing chapter, he addressed some practical issues for the congregation.

1. Be Faithful by standing firm in the Lord. (v.1)
In this culture of political correctness, many have compromised their faith in the Bible in order to accommodate false beliefs and sinful behaviors.  Ministry flows through relationships.  But while we are to love people and serve them, we are never allowed to flinch on the Scriptures.  Being faithful to God means we are obedient to what God has said.

2. Be humble by living in harmony with each other. (v.2-3)
Whatever the disagreement was, the rift between these two women had reached a point where Paul felt he needed to say something.  Churches everywhere have been damaged and ministries stunted due to individuals in a congregation who could not get along.  All too often the church leadership does not step in to deal with the issue before it becomes sin.  Such people forget who the enemy is.  It is not another believer.  These were good women who needed help to resolve the problem and get back to serving the Lord.

3. Be cheerful by rejoicing in the Lord. (v.4)
Philippians is often called "the epistle of joy" because of the frequent use of the words joy and rejoice.  A person without Jesus may only find their happiness in their circumstances.  When life is good and going their way, they can rejoice.  A follower of Jesus is learning that circumstances are constantly changing but God and our faith in Him does not.  He is always in control.  He is always faithful.  His love for us and commitment to us never changes.  For this reason, Paul could write we are to "rejoice in the Lord always".

Paul gave his own testimony of the power of this truth in verses 10-13.  He "learned in whatever situation I am to be content."  That was not because everything in his life went well.  It did not.  He could rejoice and be content because Christ strengthened him through it all (v.13).

4. Be reasonable in dealing with everyone. (v.5)
Some translations have used the word "moderation" (KJV), or "forbearing spirit" (NAS), or "gentleness" (NIV).  The Greek has to do with behaving in an appropriate, patient, mild mannered way.  It is this response that we are to be known for inside and outside the church.  To Pastor Titus, Paul wrote "to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people."

What does it mean to know Jesus?

Read Philippians 3.

"If anyone could make it to heaven, surely he did."  That statement at a funeral was meant to be a compliment to the deceased for the kind of person he was and all that he had done to help others.  The problem is that being "good" has nothing to do with going to heaven.

Like the Galatians, the Philippian congregation encountered some false teachers.  The error being communicated was that in addition to Jesus one must do certain things in order to be saved.  Works of "the flesh", Paul called them.  Well, if works and achievement could earn merit with God, then the Apostle Paul had more than enough about which to boast (vv.4-6).  But none of those things forgave his sin, removed his guilt, and secured a home in heaven. "I count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ" (v.8).   Indeed, He considered knowing Jesus as having "surpassing worth."

Obviously, this is more than lip service about knowing Jesus.  It is not just information or a shallow belief.  Paul and the Philippians already knew Christ as their Savior.  But there is so much more.  Knowing Jesus, as the Bible describes, results in the renunciation of self for the priceless relationship with the Lord of life.  Here is the depth of that relationship from verse 10.

1. "That I may know him and the power of his resurrection".
This has nothing to do with a denomination or a church or a list of things to do.  This is a person with whom we are to develop an intimacy like no other.  One of the astounding facts of our faith is that the Creator and Sustainer of the universe desires our fellowship.  He has the power over life and death.  This was proved by His own predicted resurrection.  It is a precursor of our own resurrection.  But far greater than physical resurrection is His power to give spiritual life to those who were dead in sin.

2.  "That I may know him...and may share in his sufferings".
Those who only give lip service to faith in Christ shrink when they are challenged to take a stand for Jesus.  Isaiah 53 speaks of the Messiah as one who was "despised and rejected".  The Apostle Paul frequently wrote of his sufferings solely due to letting others know about Jesus.  But no one gets to heaven unless someone delivers the good news to them (Romans 10:14).  Silence for a believer in Jesus is not golden.  Heartache and heartbreak over the spiritual condition of others comes with knowing Christ.  Not all will be martyred for knowing Jesus, but "all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12).

3. That I may know him...becoming like him in his death".
Paul is not suggesting that all believers should experience physical crucifixion.  However, truly knowing Jesus involves a death to self and all sinful behaviors of the past.  The baptism of a believer in water is a picture of what has already taken place when we were immersed into Christ by the Holy Spirit.  "We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:4)  "So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus." (Romans 6:11)

Which way is Up?

Read Philippians 2.

Motivational speaker Zig Ziglar was known for saying, "Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude."

Jesus said, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles (unbelievers) lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them"  Then, in contrast He said, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve..." (Mark 10:42,45)

The Apostle Paul wrote that followers of Jesus are to "have this mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus."  He went on to explain what that means.

In this sin-warped world, success is most often measured by standards that are "crooked and twisted" (v.15).  Our natural attitudes are filled with "selfish ambition or conceit" (v.3).   Life becomes about what we can get and gain for ourselves.   Personal goals are marked by position, possessions and/or power.  Those three things comprise the entirety of human achievement.  Without Christ, that is all there is.

But, then came the example of Jesus.  He was God in the flesh.  He has position as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19).  He claims possession of everything there is.  "The earth is the LORD's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein." (Psalm 24:1)  And, on top of those, "All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me" (Matthew 28:18).  Indeed, Jesus is the Supreme Being.

Yet, for our sakes, He voluntarily laid aside all of those things for a time in order to meet our greatest need.  "He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." (v.8)  "Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow." (vv.9-10)  Since no one could ever come close to the humiliation of Christ, no one but Jesus could ever be so exalted.

Truly, the way up is down.  This, then, is the manner in which we are to serve.  "In humility count others more significant than yourselves.  Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." (vv.3-4)

So, why are you Here?

Read Philippians 1.

When Paul first visited the city of Philippi about A.D.51, he led Lydia, the Philippian jailer, and others to faith in Christ.  When he left, there was a nucleus of baptized believers for a local church.  At this writing, a decade had passed.  Paul was in prison in Rome awaiting trial.  But, he did not complain about his situation.  He understood why God had him where he was.

1. He understood why he was in prison. (vv.12-14)

God gave him a captive audience at government expense!  Moans and groans, grumbling and cursing would be normal expectations.  But Paul could sing praises to God, as he did in the Philippian jail.  He could loudly proclaim the saving grace of Jesus to these fellow prisoners.  And, as he stated in verse 13, all of Caesar's palace guards had heard the gospel.  Perhaps, none of these countless number of men would have heard the message if Paul had not been in prison.

Question: Why does God have you where you are today?  Who needs to hear the good news of Jesus?

2. He understood why he was on earth. (vv.19-26)

Why didn't God take Paul to heaven on the day of his conversion to Christ?  Why didn't God allow Paul to die on any number of occasions?  Why was he still living?  These thoughts perplexed him as well.  He wanted to go and be with Christ.  He would have preferred to be in heaven.  Paul wrote "to die is gain."  However, he realized that by staying he could continue to minister to and encourage others in their faith.  So, as long as God gave him breath, his life motto was "For to me to live is Christ."  

Question: Why are you still here on earth?  For whom are you living?

3. He understood why he suffered. (vv.27-30) 

Suffering due to sharing the gospel and living for Christ is a "given" part of our faith.  "Indeed all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2 Timothy 3:12)

"For to this you have been called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps." (1 Peter 2:21)

   Paul was ridiculed for his faith.  He was beaten and left for dead for preaching Jesus.  His own former colleagues of religious leaders in Jerusalem sought to assassinate him.  A weaker man may have wanted to give up.  Adversities in life will tend either make a person bitter or better.  What gave Paul such perseverance was that he knew all of these things were temporary.  His hope lay in his "completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (v.6).

"But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed." (1 Peter 4:13)

Question: Now, do you understand?

Worship while you Work

Read Ephesians 6.

Continuing from chapter 5 is the theme of submission.  When the Holy Spirit is in control of a follower of Jesus, they will exhibit humility and a willing respect for those whom God has placed over them.  We do this, not because the other person, but because our focus is on our true Leader, Jesus.  It is our aim to always do those things that will please Him.  This is foundational to understanding the instructions to wives and husbands.

In chapter 6, the letter then addresses children and slaves with words of caution and warning to fathers and masters.  Regardless of one's station in life, each Christian is to fulfill their responsibilities in a God-honoring way.

One practical test will be how a believer in Jesus responds when there are challenges at work.  For example, what should a Christian do when there are disagreements with a supervisor, changes in job expectations, an overload of work to be done, or unfair treatment by an employer?  The unbeliever may display anger, grumbling, rebellion, etc.  If the word of God found here in 6:5-8 will work for Christian slaves in the Roman Empire, they will work anywhere.

1. Obey with fear and trembling.
Respect for authority is taught throughout the Bible on every level from the home to employment to government to God Himself.  Second to that is being afraid of the consequences of disobedience.

2. With a sincere heart.
There are those who will comply outwardly while harboring resentment and anger on the inside.  A follower of Jesus is to be genuine from the inside out.

3. As you would Christ.
If that person were Jesus Himself how would you respond?  But some will say, "They are not Jesus and do not deserve my respect."  That is the whole point of this passage!  We are to look beyond that imperfect, even sinful, person and keep our eyes of the One we really serve in this life.

4. Not with eyeservice as people-pleasers.
Some are tempted to work hard and smile big when the boss is watching.  True believers understand that God is watching our behavior all the time.

5. Doing the will of God from the heart.
Bloom where you are planted.  The slave had no choice of occupation.  But even the Christian slave had to decide about their attitude.  Free people must ask themselves if this place and this job is God's will for me or not.  If it is, we are to be accepting, embracing, God's will for our lives this day.

6. Whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord.
Performing a good job with a great attitude will not only be seen by the authority over us, but the Lord promises to take note and reward us accordingly.  "For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do." (Hebrews 6:10)

3 indicators that God is control of your Life

Read Ephesians 5.

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle Paul continued to explain about the Christian walk.  Walk in love (v.1).  Walk as children of the light (v.8).  Look carefully then how you walk (v.15).

This theme began in chapter 2 and verse 2.  Those who do not know Jesus walk (live their lives) according to the satanically energized "course of this world."  As a defeated enemy, the devil does everything he can to cause individuals to distort and dismiss the standards of God.  Once a person rejects the fact that they are created by God and that the Bible is the authoritative word of God, then they will turn to their own way.  They will look to personal feelings, culture, government, and majority votes to determine what is right and wrong.  The Bible calls this rebellious independence sin (Isaiah 53:6) and is the very reason for the crucifixion of Christ.

Chapter 5 also continues to be specific about sin: Sexual immorality, all impurity, covetousness (which is idolatry), filthiness, and foolish talk, crude joking.  Such things as these "must not even be named among you".

Men and women of God have renounced these behaviors in themselves in order to live lives that please God.  It is called "walking in the light", walking "as wise", and living in "will of God."  Instead, of being under the influence of those who will experience God's wrath (v.6), or the influence of substances such as wine (v.18), followers of Jesus are to be filled (controlled by) the Holy Spirit.

Next, we are given three indicators that we are in the will of God and that we have yielded ourselves to the Holy Spirit.
1. Singing. (v.19)
No religion on earth has music that can compare to that of Christianity.  Singing has always been a mainstay of the worship of Jesus Christ.  Two books of the Bible are songbooks (Psalms and the Song of Solomon).  Humorously, Steve Martin has recorded "Atheists don’t have no songs."  Sin and the cares of this world may rob a believer of their song.  When Judah sat broken hearted, they lost their song (Psalm 137:4).   A sign of one who has submitted themselves and their circumstances to God begins to sing from the inside out.  And, as this verse begins, we need to let others hear our praise.
2. Giving thanks. (v.20)
When a person is trying to find their song in circumstances, they will become ungrateful.  They will want to measure their lives by more.  A follower of Jesus learns that contentment comes in knowing the truth.  "For the Gentiles (unbelievers) seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all." (Matthew 6:32)  Learning to acknowledge that everything comes to us from the hand of God causes us to live lives of thanksgiving for what we have been given today.
3. Submitting to one another. (v.21)
Here is a true test that will expose our wrong sort of independence.  We may yield to the Holy Spirit in private prayer, but yielding to each other may be the challenge.  When God is in control there will be a humility about that person.  They will not be demanding their own way but the good of others according to God's word.  We are to behave like this out of reverence for Christ.  "Have this mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 2:5)  Jesus did not demand His rights as Creator and Owner of all things.  He submitted Himself to the suffering and the sacrifice to meet our needs.

The practical example of this last indicator is marriage.  Satan has done everything he can to distort and to dismiss the truth of God's word and to destroy this picture of Christ and the church.  The wife is to submit to her husband's leadership, not because she thinks her husband is always right, but out of reverence for her true Leader.  The husband is to lovingly sacrifice for his wife.  His weighty responsibility is to maintain the holiness of the relationship and the home.  This means he gives up living for himself, doing his own thing, and going his own way, in order to be like Jesus in his marriage.

Learning to Walk

Read Ephesian 4.

One of the exciting moments in parenting is when the baby takes those first steps.  In time, the child is expected to do much more than wobble for a few feet.  The parents look forward to seeing them run.  The walking comparison is used in the New Testament regarding spiritual growth and living as a follower of Jesus.

Chapter 4 begins in verse 1 with "therefore."  Based upon what was written in the first three chapters, the last three chapters become very personal.  These are instructions on how to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called."  Since we are individually gifted by God to serve Him effectively, we are to grow up.  This is done as we mutually utilize our gifts for each other in the local church.  Then, we are to serve one another with the gifts God has given to us.  Such maturation takes place in a gathering of committed believers.  Notice how crucial each member of the local church is to the health of the congregation.  "From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly..." (v.16)

Learning to walk as a believer in Jesus and then helping others to follow in your footsteps is what every church member is to be pursuing.  Living in a manner that pleases God requires decided and continuous acts of discipline.
1. Put off the old self. (vv.17-22)
We are no longer allowed to walk like those who do not know Christ.  All of us enter the Christian life with certain vocabulary words, ways of thinking, a world view, personal habits, sinful behaviors, and selfish motives that offend the holiness of God.  Those are sins that nailed Jesus to the cross (Isaiah 53).  Before Christ, these things did not bother us because of the "hardness of heart" and callousness in our thinking.  Sometimes these changes may happen instantly upon salvation.  But there is usually one or more of these "old self" elements that linger.  It is our duty in Christ to daily confront our temptations to sin and flee them.

2. Put on the new self. (vv.23-24)
In other words, we are to practice "true righteousness and holiness"; "the likeness of God."  One who claims to be a Christian is to be known by others as a person of God.  How does this happen?  First, we have the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide us.  We must listen moment by moment for His voice in our conscience reminding us of right from wrong.  Second, we must exercise moment by moment obedience to the holiness of God in our thinking, words, and actions.  There is no substitute for the daily intake of reading and studying the Scriptures to renew our minds.

3. Put away the old responses and practice the new. (vv.25-32)
To be specific, the Holy Spirit had Paul write down ten examples of sinful behaviors that we are no longer allowed to do.  Lying, anger (twice), stealing, offensive and condemning vocabulary, grieving the Holy Spirit, bitterness, wrath, clamor, slander, and malice.  Each of these comes with a contrasting response of a true follower of Christ.  Speak truth, do not hold on to anger, work so you  may share when others are in need, speak in a constructive way that ministers grace to others, be kind, tenderhearted, forgiving one another.

God's grace in Action

Read Ephesians 3.

This is one of the letters Paul wrote while in prison.  Rightly so, the people were gravely concerned for him and his health.  "So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is for your glory." (v.13)

How can a man who is confined in prison and apparently limited in resources write such strong words of doctrinal truth?  How can a hurting man seemingly dismiss his suffering and be encouraging to others?  The simple answer is here in this chapter as Paul explains the effects of God's grace.

Again, in Greek the word grace (charis) refers to "the divine influence on the heart and its reflection in the life."  In other words, God does a work within a person and that work becomes outwardly apparent.  This is beyond personalities and natural abilities.  It is a spiritual result that causes us to act and respond differently than those who do not know Jesus.  The word grace appears twelve times in these six chapters.  In chapter two, Paul explained that salvation is by God's grace.  Here, in chapter three, he began to expand upon the impact of grace.

1. The stewardship of God's grace. (vv.1-6)
Stewardship is a trust.  Whether the object is money, time, talent, life, children, opportunity, property, etc., it does not belong to the person.  The owner allows a steward to superintend it for a time.  At the end of that time, there will be accountability for what was entrusted.  Specifically, Paul acknowledged that the Holy Spirit had revealed insights "into the mystery of Christ".    That mystery, or previously unexplained truth, had to do with how the Gentiles fit into God's plans and promises.  It was the Holy Spirit's work of revelation, not as a result of his intellect and education.  It had been given to him "for you" (v.2).

As Creator, God is the Owner of all things (Psalm 24:1).  What He has entrusted to us is not for us.  It is to be used for the benefit of others.  When we respond to God's grace by renouncing selfish goals for passing on that grace to others, God is glorified.  And, that is the ultimate aim of life.  Soli Deo gloria.

2. The gift of God's grace. (v.7)
Every believer has been gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve Him effectively.  We do not all have the same spiritual giftedness.  These are differently distributed by the will of God.  See Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Peter 4, and Ephesians 4.  The gifts, as explained above, are stewardships given to us for the spiritual benefit of others.

3. The administration of God's grace. (vv.8-21)  
For Paul, the assignment was to preach the gospel (death, burial, and resurrection) of Jesus.  Faith in that message changed the lives and the eternal destinies of those who responded in faith to God's grace (2:8).  Each follower of Christ must discover how God has gifted them and to use that gift for the spiritual growth of other people.

It is a staggering thought that the God of heaven desires to use us!  But the impact and influence of our obedience to God's grace is beyond our comprehension.  "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever.  Amen."

Dead man Walking

Read Ephesians 2.

After presenting a strong doctrinal case for what believers have in Christ, the letter now turns to recalling how and why this happened.

1. Where were we? (vv.1-3)
-Dead.  Before a person puts their personal faith in Jesus they are without true spiritual life.
-Disobedient.  Human life on its own cannot please God.  Before receiving Jesus one can only follow their sinful, natural desires which are energized by the devil himself.
-Doomed.  Without Jesus, "all" (v.3) people are destined to experience the consequences of their sin: God's eternal wrath.  (John 3:36)

2. What happened? (vv.4-7)
"But God."  When the God of heaven steps in, He changes everything.  It was impossible for us to be good enough to escape eternal judgment.  Note the Biblical statements describing the character of God.
-rich in mercy
-great in love
-immeasurable in kindness
"But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)

3. How did this change take place? (vv.8-10)
Our only hope of rescue was by the gracious intervention of God.  No one can earn their way to being saved from eternal torment.  No one can do anything to pay for a single sin.  The offer of Christ's full and final payment for the sin of the world comes only from the grace of God.  It becomes effective for each individual when they believe God's offer through faith alone.  Not only does one's personal destiny change but for the first time they can begin to understand their purpose in life.  It is not about our works, but God's workmanship and how He has created us.  (John 1:12)

4. Where are we now? (vv.11-22)
The Apostle Paul addressed one our biggest problems.  We humans are forgetful.  Twice, he stated "remember."   First, remember what life was like before faith in Jesus.  "But now in Christ" look what we have and what God is doing in and through us.
-we have been brought near to God by the blood of Christ
-we have peace with God because of Christ
-we have direct access to God because of Christ
-we are fellow citizens with all other believers, members of the household of God, working with Christ and each other in fulfilling His plans.

4 blessings we have in Christ

Read Ephesians 1.

In writing this letter, under the divine and direct inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle Paul used a familiar pattern.  The first half is doctrine.  The second half is duty.

It is crucial for a believer not just to know Jesus as Savior but to increasingly understand what we have in Christ.  We have been "blessed with every spiritual blessing" (v.1).  We have been adopted in the very family of God (v.5).  We have been redeemed and forgiven by the blood of Christ (v.7).  Our inheritance has not only been promised, but it is signed, sealed and guaranteed by the Holy Spirit Himself (vv.13-14).

Based upon those strong foundations of our faith, here is what Paul prayed for this congregation and how we may pray also.  (vv.15-23)
1. "The Spirit of wisdom and the revelation of the knowledge of him"
All of us are still learning.  All of us need help with insights into the Scriptures.  Reading and studying God's word should always lead us to greater insights and understanding of Jesus.  This is not an informational exercise but one of transformation.  For example, so many become needlessly bogged down and discouraged by the events in the book of Revelation.  But the first verse declares the purpose of the book is to reveal Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:1).  Taking one's eyes off Jesus will result in confusion about the Bible and life.

2. "What is the hope to which he has called you"
Jesus is the only hope there is.  Everything else is wishful thinking that will only lead to a Christ-less eternity of torment.  With Jesus, we understand that this life is temporal.  We understand that no matter what happens here, God is working out His plan in us.  We understand that there awaits a secured future of eternal life and the joys of heaven.  It is this hope in Jesus, not our circumstances, that keeps us encouraged and persevering.

3. "What are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints"
What God has in store for those who love Him, He has already revealed to us by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:8-10).  Comprehending what has been revealed in the Scriptures is the lifetime pursuit of a follower of Christ.  They are not perceived naturally by eyes and ears.  But as we learn the Scriptures, these abundant blessings begin to come alive.  They provide spiritual fuel, energizing us to live for God.

4. "What is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us"
This is the power that by spoken word created the heavens and earth.  This is the power that holds and sustains the universe.  This is the power that controls life and death.  This is the power of resurrection.  This is the power of the Good News that can change a person's eternal destiny.  This is the power that enables us to overcome our sin and live for Jesus.

Wisdom.  Hope.  Riches.  Power.  All we need to be overcomers today already belong to us in Christ.