Qualified Leaders

The churches on Crete had been started by other Christians.  Many of those involved in starting the churches were Jews who had been saved, but were driven out of Israel before they were firmly grounded in the scriptures and still clung to the Jewish traditions, not understanding that while Christianity has some things in common, it is not just an extension of the Jewish religion.  In effect, they were Messianic Jews, living in non-Jewish communities, rather than Christians.  As a result, their teachings were a confusing mix of Jewish and local traditions.   Titus 1:5-6 explains why Titus had been left behind on Crete.   “For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. “    He would need to help them get their doctrine (teachings) corrected, and train leaders who would be able to teach and lead the churches properly. 

It impossible to teach others what one to do what one cannot do himself.  Thus, it is critical that the pastor (also called a bishop or elder) be able to do what he is trying to teach the people to do.  Titus 1:7-9 describes the qualifications he must have.  “For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” 

If the person is to succeed as a leader setting the moral example, he needs to have a reputation for honesty and sexual purity.    He needs to be meek, not demanding his own way, respecting the opinions and needs of others.  He needs to have patience, not getting angry when people do not do what he thinks they should.  He must not spend his time drinking or partying.  Money must not be a major concern for him.  He needs to be a person who likes having people around, associating himself with those who do what is right.  He needs to be serious minded, and fair in the way he treats people, living a godly lifestyle.  He must be able to control himself, emotionally, financially, and morally.  Finally, he must have a firm grasp and respect for the scriptures in order to prevent people from beilng lead away by false teachers.   

This last qualification is especially important, because as Peter pointed out, there are going to be false teachers in every group.  Titus 1:10-11 warns, “For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.”  There were many who held to various religious traditions, but some of the most dangerous to the church were those who clung to the Jewish traditions, because they resembled what Christians believe, but place the emphasis on human actions rather than faith in Christ. 

Those who have not been properly taught are especially susceptible to such teachings, and the people of Crete were no exceptions.  Titus 1:12 tells us, “One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.”   The culture was such that the people of Crete thought nothing of lying about things.  They simply followed their own natural lusts and instincts with no thought as to whether something was right or wrong, and were very slow to change.    To bring them to a truly Christian attitude would require careful, consistent teaching as Titus 1:13-14 advises.  “This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.”   

Many missionaries who worked with the Navajos accepted the idea that alcoholism was a disease that the Navajos could not overcome.  Because the evangelists and pastors continued to drink alcoholism was a major problem, even among the churches.  Missionaries who took a strong stand had a hard time getting pastors at first, but gradually the problem decreased in their churches.  Similarly, churches that do not take a strong stand for biblical standards soon find themselves accepting false doctrines.  Paul warns Titus it will be necessary to take a strong stand against traditions and manmade ideas that focus attention away from what God commanded.    It is essential that the church leaders be solidly grounded spiritually so that they can take such a stand.    If not, the Christians will never grow to be what God intended. 

Stay True To The Word

Paul advised Timothy to get rid of unsound doctrines, realizing that they would only cause confusion and lead to division and acceptance of sin in the church.  The teachers that teach them are not focused on God, but their own benefit and are to be avoided, as Romans 16:17-18 warns.  “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.  For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” 

One of the things to look at in trying to decide if a teacher is worth listening to is the results of their teaching in their personal lives and those of their family.  Far too often the public persona is completely different than the person’s home life.  Hebrews 13:7 advises, “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.”  Paul had been very open about his life with the people, and Timothy was very familiar with how he lived. 

II Timothy 3:10-11 reminds Timothy of what he knew about Paul.  “But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.”  Timothy was very familiar with Paul’s teachings, but he also knew how he lived each day in private and what his purpose was.  He had seen Paul’s faith demonstrated repeatedly, aqnd his endurance and patience when people did not do what he hoped.  He also knew how unpopular Paul was and how often he was attacked, as well as his daily struggles with health issues, in town after town, yet Paul did not give up.  Thanks to God, he was able to fulfill his ministry despite the problems. 

Timothy needed to be aware that he would face similar struggles.   II Timothy 3:12-13 warns, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.  But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.”   Every Christian who allows the Holy Spirit to lead him will suffer persecution.  In Matthew 5:11-12, Jesus said, “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.  Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.”  The persecution will increase as people turn farther from God. and we are warned that they will.  We need to be worried when Satan and his followers do not attack, because that implies a person is not living a godly life.   As long as people do not serve God, Satan doesn’t bother them very much because he doesn’t want them to go looking for something better. 

We learn to handle struggles by observing other people, and leaders who never seem to have struggles present a distorted idea of what it means to be a Christian.  To be an effective witness people need to see us in real life situations so they can see our faith in action.  There are no perfect people, who have no problems, so anyone who presents such a façade is faking it.   Unfortunately many have been convinced that people will lose respect if they see flaws in a leader. 

We are not to let the persecutions and trial discourage us.  II Timothy 3:14-17 commands, “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”    We should continue to follow the scriptures, knowing how they came about and understanding they tell us what God wants.

Our obedience is evidence of our love, as John 14:21 tells us.  “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”  In order to obey, it will be necessary to study the scriptures.  If we will make the effort to study and obey them, we will receive an awareness of God’s presence in our life.   In the process of eliminating false beliefs, we need to be careful we don’t throw out scriptural teachings.   All scripture is given by God and is valuable for teaching us how to please God.   

Human Nature Is Not Good

Contrary to popular belief, people are inherently wicked, as Genesis 6:5 tells us.  “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”   God established certain standards of right and wrong, but over the centuries different groups have modified those standards, sometimes almost eliminating them.   Genesis 6:11 describes what happens when people are allowed to freely follow their natural instincts.  “The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence.”    

In recent years, the old taboos and moral standards have been relaxed, with the result the world is again approaching the state described in Genesis 6:11.   Paul warned us that this would happen in II Timothy 3:1-5.  “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”

As a result of that unrestrained inherent wickedness, people become totally selfish.   Wanting everything for free, boasting about accomplishments of little value, and too proud to admit they are no better than others.  They do not hesitate to slander other people, and have no respect for their parents.  They do not appreciate what they have received. And have little or no moral restraints.  They have no natural love, not hesitating to kill or abort their own babies and indulging in sexual perversions such as homosexuality, adultery, and rape.  They cannot be trusted, and do not hesitate to lie about others.  They exercise no self-control and are cruel to others, hating anything that stands for right, stealing from and destroying even their own friends and relatives.  They consider themselves smarter and more deserving than others, never admitting they are wrong.  They are far more interested in having a good time than in knowing what God wants.  They may be very religious, but they don’t allow it to interfere with their everyday lives, setting their own standards of right and wrong, in effect setting themselves up as God.    

As Paul warns, we need to avoid associating with such people.  II Timothy 3:6-7 warns that they pose a serious threat to weak Christians.  “For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”  They prey on people’s gullibility and ignorance, scamming them and playing on their lusts to get money, sex, and fame by constantly promising the next book or seminar or level will give them what they want. 

They are just like the magicians in Exodus 7-9, trying to convince Pharaoh and the Egyptians they were as powerful as God, as Paul mentions in II Timothy 3:8-9.  “Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.  But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.”   

Despite their conviction that they can do as they please and do not have to answer to God,  their foolishness will soon be revealed, Just like those magicians. Who were able to fake the miracles for a little while but in Exodus 8:18-19, they were forced to admit they were nto as powerful.   “And the magicians did so with their enchantments to bring forth lice, but they could not: so there were lice upon man, and upon beast.  Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This is the finger of God…”  For a short time they may seem to have everything their way, but ultimately the truth will be known.   Human nature will never attain God’s power and authority, even when cloaked in psychology and religious traditions.  To think human nature can override God’s plan is to think we are greater than God.   Galatians 6:7-8 warns, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.”    We can’t let our human nature control us if we want to please God.  

Get Rid Of Things You No Longer Use

I Thessalonians 5:21 commands, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”  As we saw in the previous post, we need to do some spiritual housecleaning, getting rid of false teachings and worldly traditions if we are to be fitted for the Lord’s use.   Otherwise we become spiritual hoarders, so hemmed in by all the rules and false teachings we are unable to actually serve God or enjoy spending time with the Lord because we are so worried about doing something wrong and offending him. 

While we are cleaning house there are some other things like shoes or clothes that we don’t use, that need to be gotten rid of as well.  Why hang on to things we will probably never use when we could exchange them for something we need or could enjoy?  Even if we can’t sell them, getting rid of them will give us a place to put things we do need.    II Timothy2:22 tells us, “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”  Those old childish desires and cravings are part of the old, natural man and no longer fit the new man.  We need to replace them with things that are becoming to a Christian, that go along with a walk with Christ.   For example, a sinful lifestyle implies we don’t really know the Lord, as I John 3:10 tells us.  “In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God…”   Instead, we ought to live in accordance with God’s standard of what is right.  We need to live by faith, because Hebrews 11:6 tells us, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”  Love is critical to our Christian life, as I John 4:7-8 tells us.  “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.  He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”  We need to learn to love people, and to live at peace, with ourselves, with other people, and with God.   All these things are part of the fruit of the Spirit described in Galatians 5:22-23. 

We are surrounded by debates over which Bible we should use, or what style of music or service a church should have, or when the Lord will return, etc.  Many of the debates are not relevant, and others are simply the result of a lack of study of the scriptures.   II Timothy 2:23-26 tells us not to get caught up in these debates.  “But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.   And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.”  

These debates just result in conflict between Christians.  As Christians we are not to be fighting among ourselves, but to go out of our way to build up and strengthen the Christians.  We are to patiently teach them the truth, not trying to impose our will or beliefs, even when they are clearly in the wrong.  Instead of trying to change them ourselves, we are to allow God to make the changes so that they escape Satan’s tricks.  In our efforts to force change, we may well drive them into Satan’s clutches.  Instead of trying to prove we are right, we should walk away and let the Holy Spirit work.  If he can’t get them to change we surely can’t, and there’s no use trying to do his job.  

Doctrinal House Cleaning

The founder of a famous Bible college and seminary used to tell his students the easiest way to draw a crowd was to start a fight.  We see this principle applied in many areas of life today, from political parties and protest groups to religious and business organizations.  Many of the controversies of history have arisen as a result of someone deliberately starting a fight over some relatively unimportant issue.  Luther is often credited with starting the Reformation, but in reading his ninety five theses, I was struck by the fact that initially his main complaint was that the Catholic Church in Rome was requiring the local parishes to send so much of the money they collected to Rome for the construction of St. Peters that the local parishes were being left destitute.  When Rome retaliated, he began to study the scriptures in an effort to defend his position, with the result that his doctrine changed dramatically.  Unfortunately, what drew the crowds was the conflict, rather than his doctrine.  Sadly, people still view conflict as exciting. 

Paul gives numerous warnings about such conflict. Pointing out in I Corinthians 3:3 that it is evidence of a carnal, unspiritual mindset.  Many times the conflicts arise over the meanings of certain words in passage of scripture.  II Timothy 2:14 warns that rather than drawing people closer to God, such arguments drive them away.  “Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” I Timothy 6:4 describes the attitude of those involved and such arguments, and the results of those disputes.  “He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.”  While it might be the easiest way to gather a crowd, it counterproductive as far as producing strong Christians. 

II Timothy 2:15-19 tells us how to avoid getting caught up in such debates and conflicts.  “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.  And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;  Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.  Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 

We need to take the time to study the scriptures thoroughly, keeping in mind that as II Peter 1:20-21 tells us, no passage of scripture is to be interpreted in a way that contradicts other scriptures.   “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”  Simply taking the time to find out what the scriptures say will eliminate all the disputes except for a few minor questions of semantics, or how we express the same principle. 

We need to avoid being sucked in to the profane or worldly and meaningless debates, because they are about building a person or group’s reputation rather than about learning the truth.  The conflicts will cause constant irritation like a canker sore, encouraging people to ignore things God has actually said.  God’s word does not change to fit the newest doctrinal fad, but remains exactly the same.   Some of those who adopt the fads are not really Christians at all, but fortunately God knows who is and who isn’t.  God’s people need to obey him, not just go along with the false teachers. 

In a modern home there are containers that have tremendous value, such as the dishes and cooking utensils.   Others such as used plastic fruit containers and bags need to be thrown away, there are teachings in the church who are of great value and others that just get in the way of spiritual growth.  This is the illustration Paul used in II Timothy 2:20-21.  “But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.  If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.”  If we throw out the garbage, then our house will be much more satisfactory for God to live in.  

Committed To Christ

If we are to remain faithful to God we must make a commitment to obey his word and trust him.  This will not always be easy, as II Timothy 3:12 warns us.  “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”   Sometimes, it seems hopeless to keep on serving God.  II Timothy 2:3-5 instructs, “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.  No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.  And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.”

A new enlistee in the army has to go through basic training to give him the mental and physical toughness to face the situations he may face on the battlefield.  In the same way, Christians need to develop a mental and spiritual toughness to face the persecutions and attacks by Satan and ungodly men in this world.   Like the soldier, we must be ready to drop everything else to concentrate on serving God, and like an athlete competing for a prize, we must follow the rules, in this case God’s guidelines if we expect to receive the rewards for serving him. 

Before we can teach others to trust God or to walk in the Spirit, we have to experience it ourselves, as II Timothy 2:6 reminds us.  “The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.”  If the farmer has never eaten properly, or if he doesn’t eat the fruits of what he produces, he will be unable do the work required.   We will not have the mental and spiritual toughness we need to withstand the persecution and privations we face, until we experience them, and we will definitely be unable to teach others to have such toughness.  .   

Much as we might prefer to avoid the trials, they are just as necessary if we are to serve god as it is for the soldier to go through basic training.    Without those experiences we have no understanding what it means to truly trust or serve God.   The trials we face are critical for us to learn to trust him.  II Timothy 2:7-10 tells us, “Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.  Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.  Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” 

Jesus, God’s own son had to go through the suffering of death to accomplish God’s purpose, as Hebrews 5:7-10 tells us.   “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.”  If he had to go through such suffering to serve God, we ought not to think we are too good to go through similar suffering.  Matthew 10:24 tells us, “The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.”   We are not better than the Lord.

Jesus was exalted to the right hand of God and made our salvation possible because he willingly suffered those things.  If we are to receive God’s blessings and rewards, we must be willing to suffer the trials he gives us.  II Timothy 2:11-14 tells us, “It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.  Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” 

Those who remain faithful even in suffering will receive the rewards he has promised.  Those who by their actions deny him will miss their rewards.  God is going to do what he said, whether we believe it or not.  He will not change to satisfy our ideas.  I Corinthians 3:13-15 tells us, “Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.  If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.  If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.”   We need to be very careful in teaching others, to make sure they understand these principles, because arguments about what God meant serve no useful purpose for christians serving only to subvert or draw people away from the truth.   

There Is Nothing To Fear

Chronologically, II Timothy precedes I Timothy, because it was written before Timothy became a pastor, to teach him how to develop his spiritual life in preparation for the ministry.  It gives some valuable instructions into living a daily spiritual life.  Paul starts of by reminding us that if we are Christ’s, we have the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us, in II Timothy 1:6-7.  “Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.  For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 

We have no reason to be afraid of what is going on around us or the temptations and false teachers who try to mislead us.  The Holy Spirit gives us the power to overcome those temptations and take control of our minds, overcoming addictions and emotional instability.  The various attitudes forming the fruit of the Spirit are all closely related to loving people, and the Holy Spirit has given us a new mind, the mind of Christ.   As a result, we can move confidently through life.  We will no longer be constantly seeking some special sign as to what we need to be doing, knowing the Holy Spirit will guide our logical minds to make valid decisions about everyday affairs.   We can understand that the problems people face are not always their fault for not following the Lord, but in fact may be something God has caused to accomplish his purpose.   Instead of fearing the problems, we can embrace them. 

II Timothy 1:8-12 commands, “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.  For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.”

When we understand God is accomplishing his purpose in us through the power of the Holy Spirit rather than through our efforts, we no longer panic when things don’t turn out the way we expect.  That Paul had been arrested or persecuted did not mean Paul was doing wrong or that Timothy should be embarrassed about being associated with him.   I Peter 4:12-14 reminds us, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.  If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.”  God is keeping track of how we have served him, and will reward us accordingly at the proper time.  In the meantime, the sufferings and persecution we experience for obeying God only accentuate the wickedness of those who reject God and accuse his followers of evil.   We demonstrate our faith in Him by obeying him and thus glorify God, testifying that he is faithful. 

With that in mind, II Timothy 1:13-2:2 commands, “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.  That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.  Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.  And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”  We need to remember the things we have been taught, not in a fleshly determination and effort, but through the faith and love which comes through Christ.  We will be able to accomplish the job God has given us by the power of the Holy Spirit, who indwells every Christian.  Everything we have was given to us as a gift from God, and he has given us the responsibility of sharing them with others who can then pass it on to people we may never meet.   It is critical that we teach those we win thoroughly so that they can train those they win. 

Serving God in The Modern World

In I Timothy 3:1-4, Paul warned, “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”

 Literally, he is saying that in the last days, people will make a big show of being religious, but have no understanding or concern with God’s power.  They will be self-absorbed, greedy, taking credit for other people’s work, and proud.  They will slander people, have no respect for their parents, and have no appreciation for what they receive.  They will have very low moral standards, and not show natural affection, even killing their own parents or children.  They cannot be trusted, and will not hesitate to make false accusations against people.  They will lack self-control, and be cruel.  They will hate and try to destroy those who stand for what is right, thinking they are above the law, and better than other people.  They will be more concerned with entertainment than with God or his teachings. 

As we look at what is happening today, we see all those things in abundance.  The news media does not hesitate to slander political figures and deliberately make up lies about them.    Road rage and school or workplace shooting demonstrate a lack of self-control, while abortion and murder of parents and domestic abuse show the lack of natural affection.   Children are encouraged to ignore their parents, and people would rather go to a sporting event than to a church.  Unfortunately, churches have adapted by becoming more focused on entertainment and emotional pleasure than on spiritual development.  As a result, I Timothy 3:12-13 warns, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” 

As these attitudes and behaviors become accepted, they spread and become increasingly common in our world.   Christians find themselves increasingly being accused of racism and intolerance, being forced to remove Christian symbols or customs, facing lawsuits and having their children taken away.  Churches and religious centers are attacked and burned. 

I Timothy 4:1-4 instructs how we should respond to such conditions.  “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 

We need to remember that God and Christ will judge everything that is done on earth, and that their standards have not and will not change, regardless of society’s changes.  We are to preach the word.  Several words are translated preach, but they are nearly all derivatives of either a word meaning ‘to teach,’ or a word meaning ‘to proclaim as a herald.’  Under the laws of heraldry, any change to message was punishable by death, whether it was proclaimed publically or privately.  To teach has the same meaning it has in modern English.   The message must not be changed, whether it is popular or unpopular.    We still need to reprove, to point out when things are not right.  We need to rebuke or specifically address wrongdoing, and we need to encourage those who are doing what is right, but we need to do those things patiently, carefully teaching what God wants. 

As the wickedness becomes more widespread there will be increasing pressure to adapt our teaching to be more appealing to modern society.   There will be pressure to change both the way we worship and the moral standards to suit the current attitudes, openly rejecting the traditional ways.  People will leave churches which do not go along with the new ideas, adopting man made stories in place of God’s word.  We must not give in to that pressure.  I Timothy 4:5 commands, “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.”  We are to stay focused, not allowing our standards to change, even when we suffer for our position.  We are to continue to share the gospel, and teach those who believe to follow Christ fully.  The great commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands,  “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you…”  It is not enough to just win people to Christ.  We are to make full proof of the ministry, not just do the first part.  

Don’t Give Up

I Thessalonians 5:17 commands, “Pray without ceasing.”    II Thessalonians 3:1-2 describes some of the things we should be praying about.  “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.”  We need to pray for our teachers and leaders, that they will be able to speak the word of God in such a way that people will understand and accept it as God’s word, rather than just man’s statements.  We also need to pray for protection from illogical and evil attacks because many people have allowed Satan to control their minds and have no understanding of what is right and good. 

While we are going to have trials and persecutions as Christians, we have no need to be afraid, either of the attacks or that we will fail and fall into sin.   II Thessalonians 3:3-5 reminds us, “But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.  And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you.  And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.”    I Peter 1:5 tells us we “…are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”  We can depend on God to guide us day by day.  John 16:13 tells us, “… when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth,” and we will be able to understand it because as I Corinthians 2:16 tells us, “we have the mind of Christ.”  

Unfortunately, human beings have a tendency to adopt the attitudes and practices of those with whom they associate.  II Thessalonians 3:6 warns, “Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.”  We need to disassociate from those who will not do what the scriptures teach.  If we do not, we may well go along with their sin instead of following Christ. 

Paul and his associates had set an example before the people, according to II Thessalonians 3:7-9.  “For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.”  Though they were involved in full time ministry, and deserved payment for it, they had supported themselves to set a proper example for the people to follow.    

While we are told to help the poor and feed the hungry, we need to be careful in how we do it.  II Thessalonians 3:10-12 instructs, “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.  For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.  Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”  We need to be careful that we do not leave the impression that if we are serving God we don’t need to make any effort to support ourselves.  I Timothy 5:8 warns, “But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”  If a person will not make the effort to support himself or his family, he has in effect turned his back on God, rejecting what God said in Genesis 3:19.  “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.”  He is worse than an infidel because he knows what God said and refuses to obey.

While we have a responsibility to help widows and orphans, we are limited in what we can do.  I Timothy 5:16 instructs, “If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed. “  The church should not be expected to take responsibility for those who can get help elsewhere.   If we try to help everyone who wants it we exhaust ourselves and our resources and end up unable to help those who really need it.   II Thessalonians 3:13-14 warns against burning ourselves out.  “But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.  And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.  Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.”   Instead of allowing ourselves to get discouraged trying to help everyone, we need to take note of those who are not doing their part and stop supporting them, encouraging them to take responsibility for themselves.  We will be far less discouraged when we do things God’s way instead of copying others.   

Don’t Let Teaching About the Rapture Distract You

Paul had been forced to leave Thessalonica because of violent opposition from the Jews.  The Christians had gone on to serve God in spite of the opposition, becoming quite strong.  I Thessalonians had been written to encourage them to continue to grow and walk in the Spirit.  They had done so and II Thessalonians compliments them for having done so. 

“We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.” (II Thessalonians 1:3-10)

Their continued growth was a testimony to the wisdom of God in calling them and predestinating them to be saved, and promising to punish those who attacked them.  Clearly, their enemies deserved the punishment they will receive when Christ returns.  Paul and his associates just prayed that they would keep on, so that God would be glorified, as I Thessalonians 1:11-12 states.  “Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

In I Thessalonians 4:13-5:11, Paul had stressed that the knowledge that Christ was going to return was a primary motivating factor in serving the Lord, making it very clear that we do not know when it will happen.  Unfortunately, some had become so wrapped up in the Lord’s return they were neglecting teaching about spiritual growth in their effort to scare people into getting saved or witnessing.  As a result a lot of false teaching about the second coming was being disseminated.  II Thessalonians 2:1-2 warns them not to allow such teachings to concern or distract them from just following what Christ taught.  “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.“  They were not to let even claims of some special revelation from the Holy Spirit, some exciting new interpretation of scripture, or some newly discovered writing purporting to be from the apostles distract them from what they had been taught.  Everyone who claims to have some special knowledge about when it will happen makes it clear they are false teachers. 

Paul went on to remind them that certain things had to happen before the Lord would return, in II Thessalonians 2:3-5.  “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.  Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things.”   Before the Lord returns, there will be a great turning away from the scriptures to other teachings.  This will lead to the Antichrist seizing power and setting himself up as a God.  The Lord will not take out his saints until after the Antichrist comes to power.  This is exactly what Christ described in Matthew 24:4-31, Mark 13:4-27, and Luke 21:7-28. 

As II Thessalonians 2:6-7 points out the spirit of Antichrist is already working, but is restrained from taking over until that restraint is removed.  “And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.  For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.”  Many have taught that this refers to the Holy Spirit and inferred that as a result, Christians had to be taken out in what is known as the Rapture before the Antichrist comes to power.  Daniel 10:20, Daniel 12:1-2, and Revelation 12:6 all indicate that Satanic power and the Antichrist are held in check by the archangels.  There are no verses in scripture that imply the Holy Spirit is the one referred to here, and thus no evidence that the Christians will be taken out before the Tribulation. 

Once the restraints are removed, The Antichrist will seize power, according to II Thessalonians 2:8-12.  “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.  And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”    Those who have rejected Christ will follow the Antichrist because they have chosen not to believe in Him.

God chose those who would believe to be saved, from the very beginning of creation.  He used the gospel to draw us to him, and save us, and we have nothing to fear when he returns.  We need to stand fast in the faith which resulted in our salvation and allow the Holy Spirit to establish us, as II Thessalonians 2:13-16 says.  “But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.  Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.”   We are to occupy till he comes.

Exercising Faith

While the Holy Spirit produces certain attitudes, or fruit in our lives, these attitudes only become automatic as a result of repetition.   Just as developing consistency shooting a basketball requires exercising certain muscles, learning to be consistently joyful requires learning to appreciate the things that happen in our lives.  I Thessalonians 5:18 commands, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”  It is God’s will that we learn to be thankful, to appreciate what he does in our lives, so if we are not thankful, we are not fulfilling his will. 

There is another side to this verse, however.   If God is truly sovereign, then there is nothing that happens without his allowing it, even though it may be the result of our own stupidity, or Satan’s attacks.  If we understand how much God loves us, even sacrificing his own son for us, we know that he will always act in our best interests, no matter how bad something may seem. 

Romans 8:28-33 reminds us, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.   For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.  Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?  He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?  Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.” 

God gave his own son for us when we were his enemies because he knew what we were like.  He was not randomly picking in hopes that we would turn out to be good enough.  It is him that makes us good enough, not our own actions.   Having invested his own son’s life for us, he will not throw away his investment for some minor irritation.  Instead, he will see that we have everything we need to accomplish his purpose.  Even the worst things that happen to us will ultimately turn out for our benefit. 

In Genesis 37: we find the story of Joseph’s brothers selling him into slavery.  After a short time, he was accused of sexual impropriety, and sentenced to prison.  He had gone from the favored son in a wealthy family to being one of the most hated foreigners, and remained that way for thirteen years. Finally, God used a contact he had made in prison to promote Joseph to being the Prime Minister of Egypt. 

Nine years later, Genesis 45:4-8 tells us, “And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt.   Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.  For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest.  And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.  So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.”

Though what had happened was a result of evil intentions by his brothers, it was God’s way of accomplishing his purpose, saving not only Joseph, but the entire nation of Israel.   Who knows what God may be doing in your life through these problems and trials?   Rejoice that God considers you faithful enough to be entrusted with such a situation.  Don’t waste your time fighting against God’s plan and complaining, as I Thessalonians 5:19 tells us, “Quench not the Spirit.” Let him have his way and don’t try to prevent him from accomplishing his purpose.   

Don’t get resentful about things in God’s word that don’t suit you.  I Thessalonians 5:20-22 commands, “Despise not prophesyings.  Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.  Abstain from all appearance of evil.”   Check out the teaching of God’s Word to be sure that is what it really means and practices what is good while not doing what it says is wrong.  Understand that it is the Holy Spirit who is teaching you these things, according to John 14:26.  “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”   Refusing to heed the scriptures is one of the ways we quench the Holy Spirit. 

While it may seem difficult and counter intuitive, we can be sure of the results of exercising our faith.  I Thessalonians 5:23-24 promises, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.”   Our faith rests on the very character of God.  

Pray Without Ceasing

I Thessalonians 5:17 commands, “Pray without ceasing.”  Throughout history there has been a lot of misunderstanding about prayer, with almost every religion and many non-religious people talking about prayer.   Countless books have been written about how to pray, prescribing a specific ritual, specific words, a special position, or countless other things to help our prayer life.   Various people have been held up as examples of how we should pray.  Unfortunately, most of them start with a false concept of what prayer is, and in many cases the advice actually hinders spiritual prayer, focusing our attention on the wrong thing.   

Prayer is simply talking to God, communicating with him as our loving father.  In Matthew 6:5-13 Jesus gave his disciples guidelines about praying.   “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.  But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.    But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.  Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.” 

Just talk to him like you would to your father, because that is who he is.  We don’t have to worry about getting everything just right, because Romans 8:26-27 tells us, “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.  And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.”  If we mess up, the Holy Spirit will interpret it correctly.    He’s not going to get upset or ignore us if we don’t word things just right.   He wants to us to share our feelings, opinions, desires and thanks, not just repeat what someone else said.  While reading or quoting from a prayer book or praying the scriptures may make us feel very religious, Jesus said not to do it. 

Another common misconception is that we need to pray long and hard to get God’s attention.   As Jesus said, that is a heathen concept, a concept held by people who know nothing about God.    In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus contrasts the difference between God and an unjust judge.  “And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.

And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.

And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.  And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?  I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?” 

We ought to pray, expecting God to answer, because he loves us.  We should be able to come boldly whenever we have a need, as Hebrews 4:15-16 advises.  “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.  Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”     Because he loves us we don’t need to nag at God to wear him down like the woman did the judge.  Instead of nagging him about one thing, we ought to be talking to him about everything in our lives, much like a child walking with or helping a loving mom or dad.  As Paul said,  we should pray without ceasing, or be in a continual state of talking with God.    No where in Scripture are told to pray for hours or pray it through.   Jesus spoke of the hypocrites which make a show of their long prayers in Matthew 23:40.  As he said in Matthew 6:6, they are just after men’s admiration, and they already have their rewards. 

Jesus gave his disciples a model for their prayers in Matthew 6:9-13, which is commonly called the Lord’s Prayer.  “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.  Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.  Give us this day our daily bread.  And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”  Notice that it doesn’t use any flowery words or eloquent phrases, but gets straight to the point.  “Give us the food we need today.  Forgive our sins.  Keep us from evil things.”  It is very short, just sixty five words, even in the comparatively flowery King James English.   Jesus’ prayer in John 17 provides us an example of an actual prayer, by the greatest man of prayer and faith of all time.   

Start Now

People have a tendency to procrastinate when they know they don’t have to get a job done until a certain date, and had God told us when Christ will return, people would tend to wait until then to serve him.  Instead, he warned us that he would come unexpectedly to show who is really serving him.   There are certain things Paul lists that should characterize a Christian’s life.  Now is the time to start doing these things. 

I Thessalonians 5:12-13 starts out with our relationship to Christian leaders.  “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.”  In I Timothy 3 and Titus 1, Paul gives specific instructions for choosing church leaders.  They need to demonstrate those qualities before they are given the position.   We need to know how they live their lives to see the Holy Spirit’s working in them.  Hebrews 13:7 commands, “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.”   We should follow our leaders, but only to the degree they demonstrate a spiritual lifestyle. 

God will hold religious leaders accountable for what they have taught and how they have led.  As Christians we have a responsibility to work with them, not to be constantly challenging their authority or rebelling against them.   Hebrews 13:17 commands, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”   If they are not spiritually qualified we should find a different leader.  If they are, we need to cooperate with them.   There shouldn’t be conflict in the church.   As I Corinthians 3:3 tells us, conflict is a clear indication of an unspiritual state.  “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”

Not everyone in the church has the same level of spiritual maturity.  I Thessalonians 5:14-15 teaches us to deal with them appropriately.   “Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.  See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.”  Some have never learned to follow the rules God has given, and they need to be warned that what they are doing is wrong.  Others can’t seem to grasp God’s promises and live in fear.   They need comforting and encouragement.  Still others are weak and find it easy to turn away.  They need guidance and encouragement.   We need to learn to be patient with them, constantly trying to teach them to grow and be faithful.  We need to be careful to always treat everyone properly, and not take out our frustrations on them.  Quite simply, we need to demonstrate godly love for them. 

One of the things that kept getting Israel into trouble in the wilderness was their constant complaining.  They hated having to move camp every day.   They wanted something different to eat.  They didn’t like Moses always telling them what God wanted.   They were never really happy about anything for very long.  Unfortunately, many Christians have the same attitude.  Numbers 11:1 tells us,  “And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp.”    One part of the fruit of the Spirit is an attitude of joy, of enjoying life.  I Thessalonians 5:16 tells us, “Rejoice evermore.”  After all, we have eternal life and the problems in this world are only temporary.   If we gripe about what he has already given us, why should he bother to give us more?  We’ll probably just gripe about it too.   Learn to enjoy and be content with what God has given.

Our happiness is based on our attitude rather than what we have.  As a result two people in identical situations can have totally different experiences, with one miserable and the other bubbling with happiness.    I Timothy 6:6-8 advises, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.  For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.  And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”   Don’t wait until everything is just the way you want it to start enjoying things.  If you do, you may miss out completely.

Be Prepared

It is critical that we understand that the Lord is coming back and will reward his servants if we are to remain faithful to him, as Hebrews 11:6 states.  “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”  an understanding of Christ’s return emphasizes that he will reward his servants.  Thus, in I Thessalonians 4:13-18 Paul tells us, “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and s shall we ever be with the Lord.  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” 

While understanding that he is returning is crucial, we are to live by faith.  As a result, we are not told when Christ will return.   In Matthew 24:36, Jesus told his disciples, “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”  Even the angels do not know when the Lord will return to establish his kingdom.  In Acts 1:7, he told them, “…It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.” 

Knowing that God said it was not our business to know when Christ will return, Paul refused to speculate when it would happen, according to I Thessalonians 5:1-3.  “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.  For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.  For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.”  The one thing we can be sure of is that it will happen at a time when people, even Christians are not expecting it.   We just need to be ready at any time because Luke 12:40 warns, “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.”   Anyone who thinks they know when it will happen has been deceived. 

While we don’t know when He will return, we are to get prepared so we’ll be ready whenever he does come.   I Thessalonians 5:4-11 reminds us, “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.  Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.  Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.  For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.  For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.  Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.”

Instead of wasting our time trying to figure out when the Lord will return, like an army recruit in basic training, we need to get prepared so when the time comes we will be ready.  Ephesians 6:11-20 describes the process.  “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

As Jesus said in Matthew 24:44, “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”    As the Boy Scout motto says, “Be Prepared”

Keep Practicing

When Paul and his associates had been Thessalonica, they had taught, both by word and example how the Christians should live.  In I Thessalonians 4:1-2 he encourages them to practice the things they have been taught.  “Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.  For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.”   With practice, the Christian walk becomes more natural. 

Many people are concerned about finding God’s will.  Unfortunately they are often thinking about some special or job.   I Thessalonians 4:3-8 tells us what God wants from every Christian.  “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.  For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.  He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit.” 

God’s will for every Christian is that they be sanctified, literally, that they be set apart and have their life cleaned up, kind of like a clean plate or bowl that has been washed and is ready for use.  Until we have our lives cleaned up, we are not fit for God’s use in special service.  One of the first things that needs to be addressed is sexual impropriety in all the different forms, from promiscuity or homosexual activity to pornography and suggestive dress or actions.   Another area to be addressed is in our treatment of others in daily life.  We need to make sure we are not taking advantage of them in any way, because we understand we are going to be held accountable by God.  When we treat others as if they don’t matter, we are not just insulting them, but the God who has given us the Holy Spirit to guide us.

Paul had already addressed how pleased he was with the Thessalonians concern for other Christians.  He encourages them to continue to grow in that area also, in I Thessalonians 4:9-10.  ”But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more; And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.” 

No matter how good we may become at a specific action or attitude, we need constant practice to maintain and sharpen those skills.   Either you use them or you lose them.   They needed to focus on being quiet, not calling attention to themselves or getting upset, but rather to stay focused on their own business,  doing the Job God had given them, rather than worrying about what others were doing.  If they would do that, they would not have to pretend to those around them, and God would use their effort to meet their needs. 

If we are to stay faithful to God it is vital to remember that everything will ultimately turn out according to God’s plan.  We must not get distracted by what is happening around us.  I Thessalonians 4;13-18 reviews what we have to look forward to.  “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and s shall we ever be with the Lord.  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” 

Without reassurance about Christ’s long term plans, it is easy to get discouraged and give up, because so often it seems like those who do evil are better off than those who serve the Lord.  We need that comfort.  It is not just to make us feel better at a funeral.   

Trusting God To Produce Results

In Thessalonica, the Jews had stirred up so much animosity against them that Paul and Silas were forced to leave to take the pressure off those who had turned to Christ.  They had gone to the nearby city of Berea to teach, but upon hearing of their presence the Jews came to Berea as well.  Since he was the main target of their anger, Paul sailed to Athens, leaving Silas and Timothy behind to continue the work there, as Acts 17 describes. 

“But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.  Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.  For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?  For ye are our glory and joy.” (I Thessalonians 2:17-20)

Although he had been forced to leave, Paul had wanted to return, but the attacks in Berea had prevented doing so.  Nevertheless, he was concerned about them, rejoicing that they continued in their faith, but concerned they might get discouraged.  It was their faith that encouraged Paul and the others to keep trying, convinced they were not wasting their time.  . 

“Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone; And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith: That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.  For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.  For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain. ” (I Thessalonians 3:1-5)

While in Athens, Paul realized he could not go back to Thessalonica.  Fearing They might be discouraged by the fact he had not returned and hearing of the attacks on him they might well give up hope, so he got a message to Timothy to go back and encourage them before meeting up with in Corinth.  It would have been really disheartening for him to have gone through so much, only to have them turn away from Christ.   

“But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you: Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.  For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?” (I Thessalonians 3:6-10)

When Timothy arrived in Corinth and shared what the Thessalonians were doing, Paul was greatly relieved to know they were still following what he had taught and hoping one day he could return.  It made what he had faced worthwhile, and he thanked God for their faithfulness.   

Paul hoped through God’s power to one day be able to return and visit Thessalonica personally, but in the meantime he could count on God to help them to grow in faith and love as I Thessalonians 3:11-13 tells us.  “Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.  And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.”

Like Paul, we need to realize it is God who makes people grow, not our efforts.  Like a gardener, we can provide the things that are necessary, such as water and soil, and pull the weeds, but the end result is what God causes, not what we did.   We have to learn to trust God with the results.  

Setting The Example

In any organization or group, whether a business, a school a club, a family, or a church, the leadership sets the tone and attitude of the entire organization or group.   This is one of the most important reasons why the choice of pastors and elders in the church is so critical.  People tend to copy the behavior of those who their leaders.   If they are not spiritual people themselves, they will never be able to lead their people to become spiritual.  Unfortunately, people sometimes copy the behavior mechanically, without understanding the underlying attitude.  Paul wanted the Thessalonians to understand the spiritual attitude behind their actions. 

“For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain: But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.  For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.  For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness: Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.” (I Thessalonians 2:1-6)

Their focus had been on pleasing God, not on getting men’s admiration or respect.  They had suffered much abuse in Thessalonica, but they did not change their message.  They knew what they were teaching was truth, and did not try to make it more acceptable to the people around them, or convince people they were just teaching a slightly different form of the old beliefs.  They didn’t try to compliment the local leaders in order to get a hearing.  They also did not lord it over the people making demands, even though they were God’s apostles or special messengers.    

“But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:  So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.” (I Thessalonians 2:7-8)

They had gone out of their way to make sure they did not hurt the people, emotionally, spiritually, or financially.  They did not isolate themselves, but were willing to live like the people, willing to give up their very lives for them because they cared so much for them.  They were not satisfied just to preach the gospel to them.   They actively lived it among them, setting the example as to how those people should live in their situation. 

“For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.  Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.” (II Thessalonians 2:9-12)

Because they had set the example, living among the people, working alongside them and dealing with similar problems, their people were equipped to walk in the spirit where they were.    They had learned the proper attitudes like a child watching his father. 

“For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.  For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews: Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men: Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.” (II Thessalonians 2:13-16)

Because they had seen the gospel practices in the same situations they faced, the Thessalonians did not consider it an abstract theory, but a very practical way of life.   They were prepared to face the same trials as the churches in Israel had faced, even being persecuted and threatened by the established religious leaders and forbidden to teach others their beliefs, because those other religious groups have rejected God and face his judgment.  

Witnessing in Spiritual Power

In Acts 1:8, Jesus told the disciples, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”  He did not say that we should, but that they shall be.  It is not something they have to try to do, but something that will happen automatically as a result of the Holy Spirit’s power in their lives.  The changed, Spirit filled life becomes a testimony to Christ, even without a conscious effort.  I Peter 3:1-2 tells us, a godly lifestyle can draw people to Christ without saying a word.  “Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.”  I Thessalonians provides a valuable insight into What Christ meant. 

The Christians in Thessalonica had seen the power of God in Paul and his associates lives, and had accepted Christ.  As a result, they had dedicated themselves to God, and his power was obvious in their lives so that there was no question about their having been saved.  I Thessalonians 1:2-5 describes their commitment to God as a result of what they had seen in lives.  “We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; 1th 1:3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.   For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.”  They were assured that what Paul preached was truth, because they seen and experienced the power of God. 

Because they had seen what the Holy spirit did in Paul and his associates lives, the people followed their example, becoming Christians despite considerable opposition, as described in Acts 17:1-10.  As a result, their testimony spread through all the region, and even to other countries, as I Thessalonians 1:6-10 tells us.  “And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.  For they themselves show of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.” 

 Though they had not spoken to the people in the areas of Macedonia and Achaia, other people had discussed what had happened there in Thessalonica, and how the Christians had been changed, and the word had spread even to those other cities.  As a result, people were more open to the gospel in those other cities, making life far easier for the Christians there, and also encouraging them, knowing they were not the only Christians who had problems. 

One of the biggest problems in American society today is our lack of patience.  We don’t want to wait for anything.   Sadly, that same attitude has carried over into the church.  We do not want to wait for the Holy Spirit to produce fruit in our lives, or in those of our people.  Instead we try to get them out witnessing before they are even sure of their own salvation or have any idea of how to walk in the Spirit.  Consequently our witnessing has minimal impact, seldom reaching beyond the emotions of the moment.  Even those who make professions often have little or no commitment to Christ, just viewing salvation as a fire escape to avoid hell.  The results can be seen in churches all across America.   If we are to reach the world, we need to Let the Holy Spirit produce his fruit in us.