As A Spiritual Parent
II Corinthians 13:1-13
It is so easy as a parent to not follow through an what you tell your kids. So often we tell them to do something, and later do it ourselves or forget what we told them. By doing so we teach them that it is not very important. They learn their standard of importance from our attitude, and push a little to see how important it really is. Paul had started the church, then sent a letter with Timothy when problems arose. Titus has recently reported that while some were acting on what Paul had written, there were others who were not.
Just as a parent may find it necessary to punish a child to drive home the importance of what they are telling him, Paul is warning that if they do not listen, the things he has instructed the church are so critical to its spiritual growth that he will be forced to take more vigorous action if they continue to ignore his instructions. He does not look forward to having to do this.
“This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.“ (II Corinthians 13:1-3)
It is necessary that the parents act as parents for the children’s sake. Children do not always understand what is good for them, and need someone to take that responsibility until they are mature enough to make their own decisions. As an Apostle, and their father in the Lord, Paul had a similar responsibility to the Corinthians. Continuing in their present path left questions as to whether they were truly Christians.
“For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you. Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. “ (II Corinthians 13:4-6)
The Holy Spirit working in our lives is the proof of our salvation. When his working is not evident, others have reason for questioning our salvation, and we better check to be sure he is there. A life filled with the Holy Spirit will not be characterized by sin, but by obedience to God. It is only possible by the Spirit’s power.
“For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the SpiritFor to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” (Romans 8:5-17)
Victory over sin, assurance of salvation, and the fruit of the Spirit are dependent on allowing the Holy Spirit to control our lives. It is critical that the church, as individuals come to the point of walking in the spirit. Without doing so, we will never attain what God has for us in this life, nor will we be effective witnesses to him. The goal is to bring every Christian to that walk.
“Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection. Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.” (II Corinthians 13:7-10)
Paul concludes the letter with encouragement to allow the Holy spirit to work in us, producing fruit, which we are to demonstrate to each other, including those outside our church.
“Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you. Greet one another with an holy kiss. All the saints salute you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.” (II Corinthians 13:11-14)
Showing posts with label II Corinthians. Show all posts
Showing posts with label II Corinthians. Show all posts
Monday, May 18, 2009
Like a Lioness with Cubs
II Corinthians 12:11-21
I watched part of a documentary about Lions. When the cubs are small, they are blind and unable to do much, but before long their eyes open and they begin to gain strength. Their curiosity grows and they want to explore. The mother lion must eat in order to survive and produce food for the cubs. This requires leaving them alone for long periods of time, To prevent their straying and being killed by other predators, she has to convince them to control their curiosity. Sometimes it is necessary to physically punish a cub who does not want to stay where he is told. Out of love, that lioness will inflict painful swats when needed to convince them that they must stray in the den.
Sometimes caring for the cubs requires that she do without herself. Other times she may risk her life to protect the cubs from a male lion. Out of love for the cubs, she willing sacrifices her own comfort and even her life for the cubs. It is what normal parents do. Leaders in a church ought to have a similar attitude toward their people. Paul is willing to do whatever is required to bring the Corinthians to maturity.
“I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing. Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.” (II Corinthians 12:11-13)
In an effort to convince them not to just follow everyone who comes with an impressive story, Paul has compared his physical experiences with the supposed experiences of some of those who are seeking to lead them. He has also performed all the signs given for the Apostles as proof of his apostleship. In every spiritual area, they are as strong and equipped as any one else. as he told them in I Corinthians 1:5-7. “That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The only area Paul had left untouched was in their responsibility to support those who taught them. He asks that they forgive him for this omission, because he had done it with the intention of helping them to establish their faith before taking on the responsibility. He wanted them to know that he was not just there to get some money from them, but because he loved them.
“Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile.” (II Corinthians 12:14-16)
He had not asked for money when he was there to start the church. He did not ask for money in his first letter, and he is not asking for money in this letter. When Paul could not come and sent others, they had not asked for anything either, for the same reasons.
“Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you? I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps? Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.” (II Corinthians 12:17-19)
Paul had written this letter in hopes of correcting some problems so that they would be living up to their exalted position as children of God. His Fear was that if he should happen to come, he’d find that they were living according to the flesh, rather than in the Spirit.
“For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.” (II Corinthians 12:20-21)
Like the lioness, Paul had the fear that even after giving so much for the church, they might well expose themselves to predators who would destroy them, leading them into various types of sin.
I watched part of a documentary about Lions. When the cubs are small, they are blind and unable to do much, but before long their eyes open and they begin to gain strength. Their curiosity grows and they want to explore. The mother lion must eat in order to survive and produce food for the cubs. This requires leaving them alone for long periods of time, To prevent their straying and being killed by other predators, she has to convince them to control their curiosity. Sometimes it is necessary to physically punish a cub who does not want to stay where he is told. Out of love, that lioness will inflict painful swats when needed to convince them that they must stray in the den.
Sometimes caring for the cubs requires that she do without herself. Other times she may risk her life to protect the cubs from a male lion. Out of love for the cubs, she willing sacrifices her own comfort and even her life for the cubs. It is what normal parents do. Leaders in a church ought to have a similar attitude toward their people. Paul is willing to do whatever is required to bring the Corinthians to maturity.
“I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing. Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.” (II Corinthians 12:11-13)
In an effort to convince them not to just follow everyone who comes with an impressive story, Paul has compared his physical experiences with the supposed experiences of some of those who are seeking to lead them. He has also performed all the signs given for the Apostles as proof of his apostleship. In every spiritual area, they are as strong and equipped as any one else. as he told them in I Corinthians 1:5-7. “That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The only area Paul had left untouched was in their responsibility to support those who taught them. He asks that they forgive him for this omission, because he had done it with the intention of helping them to establish their faith before taking on the responsibility. He wanted them to know that he was not just there to get some money from them, but because he loved them.
“Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile.” (II Corinthians 12:14-16)
He had not asked for money when he was there to start the church. He did not ask for money in his first letter, and he is not asking for money in this letter. When Paul could not come and sent others, they had not asked for anything either, for the same reasons.
“Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you? I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps? Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.” (II Corinthians 12:17-19)
Paul had written this letter in hopes of correcting some problems so that they would be living up to their exalted position as children of God. His Fear was that if he should happen to come, he’d find that they were living according to the flesh, rather than in the Spirit.
“For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.” (II Corinthians 12:20-21)
Like the lioness, Paul had the fear that even after giving so much for the church, they might well expose themselves to predators who would destroy them, leading them into various types of sin.
Friday, May 8, 2009
I'm Strongest When I Can't Do It
II Corinthians 11:32-12-11
We had a half beagle when I was about 10. He saw a half grown kitten and gave chase. Panicked, the kitten fled under son machinery and the dog turned away with such a proud demeanor, as if he’d really accomplished a major victory. Just as he turned, the old mother cat hit him broadside and knocked him rolling, clawing and biting viciously the whole time. He fled the scene even more precipitously than the kitten had.
It was hilarious to watch him try to chase cats from that time on. He would bark and run a few steps toward the cat, then stop to check that the mother wasn’t watching before going further. After a few more steps, he’d stop and check again. He never got where he could joyously give chase again, because he had to keep looking over his shoulder.
Sometimes, we get proud of what we’ve done, like the dog, then discover we were not nearly so great as we thought we were. What we thought was a great accomplishment turns out to be a source of shame rather than pride. Paul had many experiences, but they were not something to take pride in. He describes one.
“In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands. It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.” (II Corinthians 11:32-12:1)
Paul could rejoice and take pleasure in what God did in other peoples lives. Talking about what he’d done himself, on the other hand might lead others to set him on a pedestal and focus on what he said, rather than on Christ. Again, Paul gives an example.
“I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.” (II Corinthians 12:2-6)
Even though the things he said were true, human accomplishments and experiences are not demonstrations of God’s power. It is foolish to focus on them. By focusing on the things he was unable to do himself, his infirmities, people would see God’s power, rather than Paul’s. God caused Paul to have physical problems in order to prevent people admiring him too much because of all the things God showed him.
"And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (II Corinthians 12:7-9)
God refused to heal Paul of his affliction, because it was for the purpose of showing God’s power. The infirmity was essential for experiencing, and demonstrating the power of God. When we can cause a result, God is not seen.
“Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.” (II Corinthians 12:10-11)
Paul rejoiced in the problems because they gave opportunity to see God’s power, fo himself, and for others. The only reason for Paul to bring up what had happened to him was for them to understand that the experiences others were claiming not special to them. As I Corinthians 10:13 says, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” The experiences do not set one above another. Everyone who serves God has similar experiences, and victory is obtained the same way.
Since we cannot see Paul’s physical problem and be repelled by it, God has given us glimpses of his sin in a few areas to keep us from exalting Paul too highly as well. Acts 21:3-4 describes an instance where Paul was told by the Holy Spirit not to go to Jerusalem. “Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden. And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.” Paul went any way, even though others also warned him.
Paul tells us in I Corinthians 3:1-3 that conflict between Christians proves an unspiritual state, and later emphasizes the need to forgive and encourage others. yet in Acts 15, he fights with Barnabas over whether to give Mark a second chance. The conflict becomes so severe that He and Barnabas split up over it. Paul was only a human, like the rest of us. Neither he, nor any other is to be considered greater than others. This was one of the areas where the Corinthians had not followed Paul’s directions and it is still a problem in our day.
We had a half beagle when I was about 10. He saw a half grown kitten and gave chase. Panicked, the kitten fled under son machinery and the dog turned away with such a proud demeanor, as if he’d really accomplished a major victory. Just as he turned, the old mother cat hit him broadside and knocked him rolling, clawing and biting viciously the whole time. He fled the scene even more precipitously than the kitten had.
It was hilarious to watch him try to chase cats from that time on. He would bark and run a few steps toward the cat, then stop to check that the mother wasn’t watching before going further. After a few more steps, he’d stop and check again. He never got where he could joyously give chase again, because he had to keep looking over his shoulder.
Sometimes, we get proud of what we’ve done, like the dog, then discover we were not nearly so great as we thought we were. What we thought was a great accomplishment turns out to be a source of shame rather than pride. Paul had many experiences, but they were not something to take pride in. He describes one.
“In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands. It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.” (II Corinthians 11:32-12:1)
Paul could rejoice and take pleasure in what God did in other peoples lives. Talking about what he’d done himself, on the other hand might lead others to set him on a pedestal and focus on what he said, rather than on Christ. Again, Paul gives an example.
“I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.” (II Corinthians 12:2-6)
Even though the things he said were true, human accomplishments and experiences are not demonstrations of God’s power. It is foolish to focus on them. By focusing on the things he was unable to do himself, his infirmities, people would see God’s power, rather than Paul’s. God caused Paul to have physical problems in order to prevent people admiring him too much because of all the things God showed him.
"And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (II Corinthians 12:7-9)
God refused to heal Paul of his affliction, because it was for the purpose of showing God’s power. The infirmity was essential for experiencing, and demonstrating the power of God. When we can cause a result, God is not seen.
“Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.” (II Corinthians 12:10-11)
Paul rejoiced in the problems because they gave opportunity to see God’s power, fo himself, and for others. The only reason for Paul to bring up what had happened to him was for them to understand that the experiences others were claiming not special to them. As I Corinthians 10:13 says, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” The experiences do not set one above another. Everyone who serves God has similar experiences, and victory is obtained the same way.
Since we cannot see Paul’s physical problem and be repelled by it, God has given us glimpses of his sin in a few areas to keep us from exalting Paul too highly as well. Acts 21:3-4 describes an instance where Paul was told by the Holy Spirit not to go to Jerusalem. “Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden. And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.” Paul went any way, even though others also warned him.
Paul tells us in I Corinthians 3:1-3 that conflict between Christians proves an unspiritual state, and later emphasizes the need to forgive and encourage others. yet in Acts 15, he fights with Barnabas over whether to give Mark a second chance. The conflict becomes so severe that He and Barnabas split up over it. Paul was only a human, like the rest of us. Neither he, nor any other is to be considered greater than others. This was one of the areas where the Corinthians had not followed Paul’s directions and it is still a problem in our day.
Claims to Fame
II Corinthians 11:16-33
My folks came to the Navajo Reservation in 1961. After starting several churches on the Reservation, the need for a Bible college to train Navajos was recognized, and a college started in Kirtland, New Mexico because land was obtainable, and jobs were available in the nearby Farmington for students.
When visiting one of their supporting churches, they were told of wonderful missionary living in Farmington and what struggles he was having on the Navajo field. Reading the letter he had written, they were amazed to learn that the Navajo culture was so wild in Farmington that it was not safe for their daughter to attend the public school, and when his wife went shopping, he had to carry a gun to accompany her. They also had a church going on the reservation, and so many lives were being so drastically changed. In 20 years of shopping in Farmington, and my brothers and sisters working there, we’d never had such experiences, and it takes a minimum of one year to get approval to build a church on the reservation.
As it turned out Mom and Dad knew the man, since he’d once asked them to get some one to go with him on visitation in a particular area. Larry. A member of their church had gone with him twice, and refused to go again because the man was so rude. As Larry said, I have to live with these people and can’t afford to offend them that way. Eight years later, the mission board fired the man because, so far as they could determine, he’d never even visited the reservation except for those two trips with Larry.
The church which received the letter had been greatly impressed by a couple of lies, never realizing that some of the things the real missionaries experienced were even more spectacular than the lies, but the missionaries seldom mentioned them because they were just a part of the job. They were not really important in themselves. As we were told about getting pictures, “You need to get as many as possible when you first go, because after a while, what is exciting to others is just normal to you.”
The church at Corinth had had people come in telling such wonderful stories and were convincing people that what Paul had done was not enough. The Corinthians did not realize how meaningless these things actually were, so Paul describes some of the things he had gone through to demonstrate that these were not the only ones who had experienced things. Nevertheless, Paul recognizes that dwelling on these things is foolish, because they really aren’t important. It only emphasizes the lack of spirituality.
“I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little. That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting. Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also. For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise. For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.” (II Corinthians 11:16-20)
I visited one of the churches my Dad had started when they had a missionary speaker. The man showed slides of his field and of a vast congregation of over a thousand, explaining that he was needing money to build a new building, since
The one thy had wouldn’t seat the crowd. Several of the Navajos spoke, really concerned as to why they couldn’t get such a large crowd since he’d only been there four years. The Navajos were discouraged at their inability to reach as many.
Later my wife asked the missionary how they got so many. He told her that they’d had a special day, and the other churches in the area had come to help out. Barb then pressed the issue, asking how many were actually his own people. He finally admitted that only about twenty actually attended his church. The story was a lie, and had hurt some dedicated Christians by convincing them that they were not doing as much as they should, when, in fact they were doing more than the one who told the lie. It also resulted in money being given to him that should probably have been given elsewhere.
The Corinthians were being hurt in a similar way by those who were making such claims, taking money, and seizing power over them, setting themselves as so much greater Christians. Paul describes the things he has gone through, that can be checked for accuracy, and compares them to the claims of the others.
“I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also. Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I. Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.
Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?
If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. ” (II Corinthians 11:21-31)
Paul had been through as much or more than any of those who were making these claims, and he had done it while simultaneously taking responsibility for the various churches that these guys were trying to take over. The only things that really mattered were when Paul was weak and God produced results anyway.
My folks came to the Navajo Reservation in 1961. After starting several churches on the Reservation, the need for a Bible college to train Navajos was recognized, and a college started in Kirtland, New Mexico because land was obtainable, and jobs were available in the nearby Farmington for students.
When visiting one of their supporting churches, they were told of wonderful missionary living in Farmington and what struggles he was having on the Navajo field. Reading the letter he had written, they were amazed to learn that the Navajo culture was so wild in Farmington that it was not safe for their daughter to attend the public school, and when his wife went shopping, he had to carry a gun to accompany her. They also had a church going on the reservation, and so many lives were being so drastically changed. In 20 years of shopping in Farmington, and my brothers and sisters working there, we’d never had such experiences, and it takes a minimum of one year to get approval to build a church on the reservation.
As it turned out Mom and Dad knew the man, since he’d once asked them to get some one to go with him on visitation in a particular area. Larry. A member of their church had gone with him twice, and refused to go again because the man was so rude. As Larry said, I have to live with these people and can’t afford to offend them that way. Eight years later, the mission board fired the man because, so far as they could determine, he’d never even visited the reservation except for those two trips with Larry.
The church which received the letter had been greatly impressed by a couple of lies, never realizing that some of the things the real missionaries experienced were even more spectacular than the lies, but the missionaries seldom mentioned them because they were just a part of the job. They were not really important in themselves. As we were told about getting pictures, “You need to get as many as possible when you first go, because after a while, what is exciting to others is just normal to you.”
The church at Corinth had had people come in telling such wonderful stories and were convincing people that what Paul had done was not enough. The Corinthians did not realize how meaningless these things actually were, so Paul describes some of the things he had gone through to demonstrate that these were not the only ones who had experienced things. Nevertheless, Paul recognizes that dwelling on these things is foolish, because they really aren’t important. It only emphasizes the lack of spirituality.
“I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little. That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting. Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also. For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise. For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.” (II Corinthians 11:16-20)
I visited one of the churches my Dad had started when they had a missionary speaker. The man showed slides of his field and of a vast congregation of over a thousand, explaining that he was needing money to build a new building, since
The one thy had wouldn’t seat the crowd. Several of the Navajos spoke, really concerned as to why they couldn’t get such a large crowd since he’d only been there four years. The Navajos were discouraged at their inability to reach as many.
Later my wife asked the missionary how they got so many. He told her that they’d had a special day, and the other churches in the area had come to help out. Barb then pressed the issue, asking how many were actually his own people. He finally admitted that only about twenty actually attended his church. The story was a lie, and had hurt some dedicated Christians by convincing them that they were not doing as much as they should, when, in fact they were doing more than the one who told the lie. It also resulted in money being given to him that should probably have been given elsewhere.
The Corinthians were being hurt in a similar way by those who were making such claims, taking money, and seizing power over them, setting themselves as so much greater Christians. Paul describes the things he has gone through, that can be checked for accuracy, and compares them to the claims of the others.
“I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also. Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I. Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.
Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?
If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. ” (II Corinthians 11:21-31)
Paul had been through as much or more than any of those who were making these claims, and he had done it while simultaneously taking responsibility for the various churches that these guys were trying to take over. The only things that really mattered were when Paul was weak and God produced results anyway.
Appearance is Not Everything
II Corinthians 11: 5-15
Old Jake didn’t seem like much of a horse. With the huge body inherited from his Perchon father and the stubby legs and stubborn nature from his Shetland mother, he looked kind of like the equine version of a Dachshund, When Bill traded for him, he figured he’d make a good strong workhorse. Every evening Bill’s sons would ride Jake and another horse out to bring the cows home.
One day, one some of the cows decided to run the other direction. Cliff, the smaller boy was riding Jake, and couldn’t even get close to the cow, leaving all the work for Chet. Thinking he could get Jake to run faster, the boys traded horses. Chet couldn’t get any more speed than Cliff did. Those short legs made Jake’s gait very choppy and running quickly became unpleasant, so Chet decided to pull Jake down to a walk, but Jake refused to stop running. In fact, the harder Chet pulled the reins to stop him, the faster Jake went. They passed Cliff on the other horse and caught the cows with no trouble.
The boys discovered that if you pulled hard enough, Jake could pass any horse Bill owned, including one former race horse. After beating several other horses in races, They challenged a fellow with a well known racing horse to a race. The man agreed, but almost refused after he saw Jake, convinced that it was a waste of time. People who’d never seen Jake run bet heavily against Jake. Chet was a very large boy, and when he climbed on, the odds increased even more.
Although he was slower getting started, Jake won the race easily. The owner of the other horse challenged them to a race with another horse he owned in an effort to win his money back, and Jake won the second race as well. It didn’t seem possible that such an awkward looking horse could possibly out run the other horses, but he did.
Paul described himself as an Apostle born out of due season. He was not nearly as eloquent as Apollos, nor as physically imposing as Peter or John. He was not a member of the church at Jerusalem, nor a student of one of the other apostles. He was not considered one of the Pillars of the Church like Peter, James and John. He didn’t appear much as a very likely apostle, any more than Jake did as a race horse, yet when it came right down to doing the job, he did as well as any. What he had done was clearly visible to the Corinthians.
“For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles. But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been thoroughly made manifest among you in all things.” (II Corinthians 11:5-6)
Paul had not demanded that the Corinthian church support him, although he believed that that was God’s plan for the church. Instead, he had worked himself, and received some support from other churches. Some questioned his right to do this, since it was degrading for a pastor to work with his hands.
“Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely? I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.” (II Corinthians 11:7-9)
Paul considered it robbery to take wages from other churches, but he did so in an effort to eliminate money matters as a stumbling block that would hinder people’s salvation. In I Corinthians 9:1-14, he makes it clear that God intended the workers to share in the rewards of their work. Those who benefit from the teaching have an obligation to support those who teach. It is a shame to a church and disobedience for the church not to support their pastor.
When Paul went to Corinth there was no church. There was no one there to support him. As a missionary, he had accepted support from other churches. Some people feel that the church is just about getting money, and there are many out there who have no other interest. Paul wanted it clearly established that that was not his motivation, so he didn’t take support from the local people at that time, although they supported him when he went elsewhere according to I Corinthians 16:17. Notice Paul’s reasoning.
“As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia. Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth. But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.“ (II Corinthians 11:10-12)
Those who were attacking Paul for his actions were trying to make themselves to appear as spiritually sound as Paul by implying he didn’t know everything he should. They are in fact ministers of Satan rather than of God.
"For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” (II Corinthians 11:13-15)
Artificial flowers sometimes look better than the real thing because they don’t have frosted petals, or places where the bugs have chewed them. False teachers sometimes appear better than the real thing because they don’t exhibit any damage from Satan’s attacks. Judging a horse, or flowers, or a pastor on appearance may result in serious mistakes. We need to remember what the Lord told Samuel. “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” (I Samuel 16:7)
Old Jake didn’t seem like much of a horse. With the huge body inherited from his Perchon father and the stubby legs and stubborn nature from his Shetland mother, he looked kind of like the equine version of a Dachshund, When Bill traded for him, he figured he’d make a good strong workhorse. Every evening Bill’s sons would ride Jake and another horse out to bring the cows home.
One day, one some of the cows decided to run the other direction. Cliff, the smaller boy was riding Jake, and couldn’t even get close to the cow, leaving all the work for Chet. Thinking he could get Jake to run faster, the boys traded horses. Chet couldn’t get any more speed than Cliff did. Those short legs made Jake’s gait very choppy and running quickly became unpleasant, so Chet decided to pull Jake down to a walk, but Jake refused to stop running. In fact, the harder Chet pulled the reins to stop him, the faster Jake went. They passed Cliff on the other horse and caught the cows with no trouble.
The boys discovered that if you pulled hard enough, Jake could pass any horse Bill owned, including one former race horse. After beating several other horses in races, They challenged a fellow with a well known racing horse to a race. The man agreed, but almost refused after he saw Jake, convinced that it was a waste of time. People who’d never seen Jake run bet heavily against Jake. Chet was a very large boy, and when he climbed on, the odds increased even more.
Although he was slower getting started, Jake won the race easily. The owner of the other horse challenged them to a race with another horse he owned in an effort to win his money back, and Jake won the second race as well. It didn’t seem possible that such an awkward looking horse could possibly out run the other horses, but he did.
Paul described himself as an Apostle born out of due season. He was not nearly as eloquent as Apollos, nor as physically imposing as Peter or John. He was not a member of the church at Jerusalem, nor a student of one of the other apostles. He was not considered one of the Pillars of the Church like Peter, James and John. He didn’t appear much as a very likely apostle, any more than Jake did as a race horse, yet when it came right down to doing the job, he did as well as any. What he had done was clearly visible to the Corinthians.
“For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles. But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been thoroughly made manifest among you in all things.” (II Corinthians 11:5-6)
Paul had not demanded that the Corinthian church support him, although he believed that that was God’s plan for the church. Instead, he had worked himself, and received some support from other churches. Some questioned his right to do this, since it was degrading for a pastor to work with his hands.
“Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely? I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.” (II Corinthians 11:7-9)
Paul considered it robbery to take wages from other churches, but he did so in an effort to eliminate money matters as a stumbling block that would hinder people’s salvation. In I Corinthians 9:1-14, he makes it clear that God intended the workers to share in the rewards of their work. Those who benefit from the teaching have an obligation to support those who teach. It is a shame to a church and disobedience for the church not to support their pastor.
When Paul went to Corinth there was no church. There was no one there to support him. As a missionary, he had accepted support from other churches. Some people feel that the church is just about getting money, and there are many out there who have no other interest. Paul wanted it clearly established that that was not his motivation, so he didn’t take support from the local people at that time, although they supported him when he went elsewhere according to I Corinthians 16:17. Notice Paul’s reasoning.
“As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia. Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth. But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.“ (II Corinthians 11:10-12)
Those who were attacking Paul for his actions were trying to make themselves to appear as spiritually sound as Paul by implying he didn’t know everything he should. They are in fact ministers of Satan rather than of God.
"For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” (II Corinthians 11:13-15)
Artificial flowers sometimes look better than the real thing because they don’t have frosted petals, or places where the bugs have chewed them. False teachers sometimes appear better than the real thing because they don’t exhibit any damage from Satan’s attacks. Judging a horse, or flowers, or a pastor on appearance may result in serious mistakes. We need to remember what the Lord told Samuel. “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” (I Samuel 16:7)
Seven At One Blow
II Corinthians 10:12-11:6
One of the old fairy tales was about a little tailor who was pestered by swarms of flies. One day he used his fly swatter and killed seven with one swat. He was so impressed by this that he proceeded to stitch the words Seven at one blow on a sash he could wear so others would know what he had done. Leaving his little shop, he started on a journey to seek his fortune.
Because of his sash, many criminals were afraid to cross him, and he finally married a princess on the basis of his claims. No one ever dared to really challenge him, and he became quite well known for his bravery. Apparently, no one ever figured out that the seven he had killed were only flies.
Many times those who brag about what they have done for God have no more substantial accomplishment s than the tailor. They compare something they have done with another time and are impressed with the results. They then fool themselves and others into believing it was a great accomplishment. They often take credit for some one else’s work, and become highly respected.
In over forty years of mission work, I have observed that some of the most admired missionaries have never built a single mission work, just taking credit for someone else’s work. Several times, the man who actually did the work lost his support when people realized that he was working in the place the famous missionary was taking credit for. Some were doing the same thing in Paul’s day. Paul wants to remind them that God knows the truth, and will judge accordingly.
“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.
For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.” (II Corinthians 10:12-18)
The Corinthians knew what God had done among them, having been led to Christ by him. Others could make unsupported claims. Since we do not know what God wanted some one else to do, we are not qualified to judge how well it was done. They are accountable to God, not to us. At the same time Paul insists that he not be give credit for Apollos’ or others’ work. Taking such credit is fraudulent. Paul warns of the danger of misjudging without accurate information, and setting people in esteem they don’t deserve in I Corinthians 4:5-6. “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.”
The glory belongs to Christ, even when the person actually did the work. Christ saved him, empowered him, and produced the results. Placing the emphasis on the man takes away from Christ. To lead others in a spiritual manner, we must focus the glory on Christ, not ourselves, or others. It is not about who we think did the best, but about who pleased God.
Accepting other’s assessment of their own work may expose us to false doctrine and being ripped off. Many who have great reputations are only interested in building their reputation. They have no concern that the people grow in the Lord. Some times those who question what famous ones say are considered as hindering growth. Paul suggests hearing out the questions before following this person.
“Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles. But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been thoroughly made manifest among you in all things.
“ (II Corinthians 11:1-6)
It is very easy to accept false teaching from those who are admired by others. Verify their claims. The Bereans were great Christians because they did so. “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:11) Fame and eloquence do not indicate spirituality, nor even salvation.
One of the old fairy tales was about a little tailor who was pestered by swarms of flies. One day he used his fly swatter and killed seven with one swat. He was so impressed by this that he proceeded to stitch the words Seven at one blow on a sash he could wear so others would know what he had done. Leaving his little shop, he started on a journey to seek his fortune.
Because of his sash, many criminals were afraid to cross him, and he finally married a princess on the basis of his claims. No one ever dared to really challenge him, and he became quite well known for his bravery. Apparently, no one ever figured out that the seven he had killed were only flies.
Many times those who brag about what they have done for God have no more substantial accomplishment s than the tailor. They compare something they have done with another time and are impressed with the results. They then fool themselves and others into believing it was a great accomplishment. They often take credit for some one else’s work, and become highly respected.
In over forty years of mission work, I have observed that some of the most admired missionaries have never built a single mission work, just taking credit for someone else’s work. Several times, the man who actually did the work lost his support when people realized that he was working in the place the famous missionary was taking credit for. Some were doing the same thing in Paul’s day. Paul wants to remind them that God knows the truth, and will judge accordingly.
“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.
For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.” (II Corinthians 10:12-18)
The Corinthians knew what God had done among them, having been led to Christ by him. Others could make unsupported claims. Since we do not know what God wanted some one else to do, we are not qualified to judge how well it was done. They are accountable to God, not to us. At the same time Paul insists that he not be give credit for Apollos’ or others’ work. Taking such credit is fraudulent. Paul warns of the danger of misjudging without accurate information, and setting people in esteem they don’t deserve in I Corinthians 4:5-6. “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.”
The glory belongs to Christ, even when the person actually did the work. Christ saved him, empowered him, and produced the results. Placing the emphasis on the man takes away from Christ. To lead others in a spiritual manner, we must focus the glory on Christ, not ourselves, or others. It is not about who we think did the best, but about who pleased God.
Accepting other’s assessment of their own work may expose us to false doctrine and being ripped off. Many who have great reputations are only interested in building their reputation. They have no concern that the people grow in the Lord. Some times those who question what famous ones say are considered as hindering growth. Paul suggests hearing out the questions before following this person.
“Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles. But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been thoroughly made manifest among you in all things.
“ (II Corinthians 11:1-6)
It is very easy to accept false teaching from those who are admired by others. Verify their claims. The Bereans were great Christians because they did so. “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:11) Fame and eloquence do not indicate spirituality, nor even salvation.
The Mean Dog
II Corinthians 10:1-11
When I was in high school, one of our neighbors had a Siberian husky called Dino. I’m not sure if Dino knew who he belonged to since he spent almost as much time at our house as at theirs. A family up the street had a big black dog that was pretty mean. Most of the kids were scared of him and he had tried biting several.
One day, my little brother and a friend of his were riding their bikes up the street. My Dad happened to walk out just in time to see the black dog make a run at them, scaring both boys. Dino had followed them up the street, but was unseen by the black dog until just before he got to the boys. When he saw Dino, he froze.
When Dino took a couple of steps toward him, although he was larger, the Black dog began to back away. As Dad described it, Dino would take a few steps and the black dog would back up further, until finally the big dog was in his dog house. Dino just stood in the center of the yard until the boys were safely away, then turned and trotted after them. On their return, the big dog again retreated into his doghouse.
Like most bullies, the black dog depended on intimidation. When some one stood up to him, he was afraid to push the issue. There are those who do the same things in churches. They begin to try to make the people do what they want. There are others who want to do as they please with no regard for others. An unspiritual church may allow them to gain power. There were some in the church at Corinth with a similar attitude.
“Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you: But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.” (II Corinthians 10:1-2)
While confrontation is not desirable, sin cannot be ignored, and that self willed and controlling attitude is sinful. It depends on intimidating others. As he had warned them in I Corinthians 4. They were depending on Paul not coming to get their way. “Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power. For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.” (I Corinthians 4:18-20) We are in a spiritual battle, and it cannot be won by carnal effort and weapons.
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.” (II Corinthians 10:3-6)
Just as a person who insisted on using only with sticks and stones would be a poor choice for leading an effort to defend against a tank or aircraft attack, a person with no spiritual weapons is not qualified to lead in the spiritual warfare. It will be necessary to replace that person to gain victory. We are not struggling against other people, but much greater powers. We need proper weapons and training to defend against their powers.
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 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.” (Ephesians 6:10-18)
The carnal man thinks in terms of the outer appearance, and may not see the spiritual side at all. He will approach the spiritual battle seeing only the outer problems. He may be a Christian. But needs to realize he is not the only one, and recognize that another may have spiritual authority he doesn’t have. Those with real spiritual authority do not flaunt it. That does not mean it is not there.
“Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's. For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed: That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters. For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible. Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.” (II Corinthians 10:7-11)
A spiritual person has power that can be accessed when needed. The person who is sure of his strength does not have to show off. The one who must prove his strength or his power is like a boy fighting others to find out how strong he is.
When I was in high school, one of our neighbors had a Siberian husky called Dino. I’m not sure if Dino knew who he belonged to since he spent almost as much time at our house as at theirs. A family up the street had a big black dog that was pretty mean. Most of the kids were scared of him and he had tried biting several.
One day, my little brother and a friend of his were riding their bikes up the street. My Dad happened to walk out just in time to see the black dog make a run at them, scaring both boys. Dino had followed them up the street, but was unseen by the black dog until just before he got to the boys. When he saw Dino, he froze.
When Dino took a couple of steps toward him, although he was larger, the Black dog began to back away. As Dad described it, Dino would take a few steps and the black dog would back up further, until finally the big dog was in his dog house. Dino just stood in the center of the yard until the boys were safely away, then turned and trotted after them. On their return, the big dog again retreated into his doghouse.
Like most bullies, the black dog depended on intimidation. When some one stood up to him, he was afraid to push the issue. There are those who do the same things in churches. They begin to try to make the people do what they want. There are others who want to do as they please with no regard for others. An unspiritual church may allow them to gain power. There were some in the church at Corinth with a similar attitude.
“Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you: But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.” (II Corinthians 10:1-2)
While confrontation is not desirable, sin cannot be ignored, and that self willed and controlling attitude is sinful. It depends on intimidating others. As he had warned them in I Corinthians 4. They were depending on Paul not coming to get their way. “Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power. For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.” (I Corinthians 4:18-20) We are in a spiritual battle, and it cannot be won by carnal effort and weapons.
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.” (II Corinthians 10:3-6)
Just as a person who insisted on using only with sticks and stones would be a poor choice for leading an effort to defend against a tank or aircraft attack, a person with no spiritual weapons is not qualified to lead in the spiritual warfare. It will be necessary to replace that person to gain victory. We are not struggling against other people, but much greater powers. We need proper weapons and training to defend against their powers.
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 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.” (Ephesians 6:10-18)
The carnal man thinks in terms of the outer appearance, and may not see the spiritual side at all. He will approach the spiritual battle seeing only the outer problems. He may be a Christian. But needs to realize he is not the only one, and recognize that another may have spiritual authority he doesn’t have. Those with real spiritual authority do not flaunt it. That does not mean it is not there.
“Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's. For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed: That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters. For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible. Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.” (II Corinthians 10:7-11)
A spiritual person has power that can be accessed when needed. The person who is sure of his strength does not have to show off. The one who must prove his strength or his power is like a boy fighting others to find out how strong he is.
Guidelines For Giving
II Corinthians 9:6-15
Several years ago, Organic Gardening published an article on wide row gardening. Traditional row planting is designed for mechanized planting, cultivating, and harvesting. More than 2/3 of the land is reserved for the passage of the machinery, rather than for growing crops. Home gardeners rarely have either the machinery or the land to waste. As a result they are better served by using different practices.
In wide row planting, the plants are planted in a triangular pattern in rows as wide as it is practical to reach across to weed and harvest. The spacing of the plants varies with the type of crop. Because the home gardener is more concerned with maximum yield, rather than maximum size, the plants can be spaced at what yields the maximum amount of food rather than the largest specimen. The closeness of the plants shades the ground between them, discouraging weed growth, and reducing evaporation. This reduces cultivation demands, and lowers water requirements for the amount of food produced. The size of garden required is reduced, reducing the amount of energy expended on plowing. The primary increase of expense is for additional seed, but it is more than offset by the increase in yield.
Corn is especially benefited by the practice because it is pollinated by the pollen falling from the tassel to the silks on the ears. The outer rows of a field tend to be less well pollinated because wind blows the pollen away. With wide row planting, more of the pollen is caught, increasing yield in yet another way. It is not uncommon to produce 4 to 5 times as much food in the same area, and at less expense using these techniques. As a result, books which recommend these techniques, such as Square Foot Gardening have become major sellers.
Both Paul and Jesus make reference to the effect changes can have on the outcome in the Christian life. Paul speaks in this passage of the fact that the potential for yield is limited by the amount of seed planted. While you may get less than the amount of seed planted can produce, you will not get more. Skimping in this area will definitely reduce one’s yield.
“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.” (II Corinthians 9:6-9)
Each man is to give as he decides. The church ought not dictate how much each gives. It is to be given freely and cheerfully. In Exodus 25:2, only what was willingly given was acceptable. “Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.” Luke 6:38 assures us that giving will be rewarded in fair measure. “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
Malachi 3:8-11 speaks of the obligation to give, and of the benefit of giving. In verse 10 they are instructed to store up those offerings to provide for the Lord’s work, rather than taking up an offering as it is needed, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” God promises to reward obedience in this matter.
The occasion for this passage was a need to help fellow Christians in Jerusalem, and paul was not alone in recognizing the need. Psalm 19:17 reminds us, “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.”
In the parable of the sower, Jesus described the different results depending on where the seed landed. Some landed on unprepared ground and never had a chance to produce. Some landed on stony ground and sprang up very quickly, giving the illusion of benefit, but died because it was unable to sustain the growth, Some fell among thorns and was hindered from production. What fell on good ground, prepared, without rocks, and having the weeds removed was productive.
To try to meet every need around us will only make us as needy as the others. We need to be sure our giving accomplishes something. To give money to a drug addict is usually a waste of time as he just blows it on more drugs, rather than something he needs. Being aware of where the seed is going and how it is used will make major differences in the results of our giving, for us and for the recipients. Paul gave some guidelines in his letters to Timothy, and the Thessalonians.
“Honour widows that are widows indeed. But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless. 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.” (I Timothy5:3-8)
The church is to help those who have no source of income. It is the family’s responsibility first. The life style of the recipient must be considered. We are not to help those who make no effort to support themselves, but to encourage them to begin to provide for themselves. Paul was quite explicit about this.
“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.” (II Thessalonians 3:10-12)
Our giving must not enable people to avoid taking their own responsibility, nor can it enable them to continue in sin. When we do so, we are partakers of their sin. If the church supports one who someone else is responsible for, they enable him to deny the Lord. They are to take their responsibility according to I Timothy 5:16. “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 past record of the recipient needs to be examined, as well as present abilities to provide for themselves, and taken into account in our giving. It should not be based on emotional feelings.
“Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;” (I Timothy 5:9-11)
Proper giving will result in God’s blessings on the giver. It also is a blessing to the recipient, strengthening him in his walk with Christ, and bringing glory and thanksgiving to God. Failure to give, or improper giving may be ineffective, or even do harm to the recipient or the giver.
“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men; And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” (II Corinthians 9:11-15)
Several years ago, Organic Gardening published an article on wide row gardening. Traditional row planting is designed for mechanized planting, cultivating, and harvesting. More than 2/3 of the land is reserved for the passage of the machinery, rather than for growing crops. Home gardeners rarely have either the machinery or the land to waste. As a result they are better served by using different practices.
In wide row planting, the plants are planted in a triangular pattern in rows as wide as it is practical to reach across to weed and harvest. The spacing of the plants varies with the type of crop. Because the home gardener is more concerned with maximum yield, rather than maximum size, the plants can be spaced at what yields the maximum amount of food rather than the largest specimen. The closeness of the plants shades the ground between them, discouraging weed growth, and reducing evaporation. This reduces cultivation demands, and lowers water requirements for the amount of food produced. The size of garden required is reduced, reducing the amount of energy expended on plowing. The primary increase of expense is for additional seed, but it is more than offset by the increase in yield.
Corn is especially benefited by the practice because it is pollinated by the pollen falling from the tassel to the silks on the ears. The outer rows of a field tend to be less well pollinated because wind blows the pollen away. With wide row planting, more of the pollen is caught, increasing yield in yet another way. It is not uncommon to produce 4 to 5 times as much food in the same area, and at less expense using these techniques. As a result, books which recommend these techniques, such as Square Foot Gardening have become major sellers.
Both Paul and Jesus make reference to the effect changes can have on the outcome in the Christian life. Paul speaks in this passage of the fact that the potential for yield is limited by the amount of seed planted. While you may get less than the amount of seed planted can produce, you will not get more. Skimping in this area will definitely reduce one’s yield.
“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.” (II Corinthians 9:6-9)
Each man is to give as he decides. The church ought not dictate how much each gives. It is to be given freely and cheerfully. In Exodus 25:2, only what was willingly given was acceptable. “Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.” Luke 6:38 assures us that giving will be rewarded in fair measure. “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
Malachi 3:8-11 speaks of the obligation to give, and of the benefit of giving. In verse 10 they are instructed to store up those offerings to provide for the Lord’s work, rather than taking up an offering as it is needed, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” God promises to reward obedience in this matter.
The occasion for this passage was a need to help fellow Christians in Jerusalem, and paul was not alone in recognizing the need. Psalm 19:17 reminds us, “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.”
In the parable of the sower, Jesus described the different results depending on where the seed landed. Some landed on unprepared ground and never had a chance to produce. Some landed on stony ground and sprang up very quickly, giving the illusion of benefit, but died because it was unable to sustain the growth, Some fell among thorns and was hindered from production. What fell on good ground, prepared, without rocks, and having the weeds removed was productive.
To try to meet every need around us will only make us as needy as the others. We need to be sure our giving accomplishes something. To give money to a drug addict is usually a waste of time as he just blows it on more drugs, rather than something he needs. Being aware of where the seed is going and how it is used will make major differences in the results of our giving, for us and for the recipients. Paul gave some guidelines in his letters to Timothy, and the Thessalonians.
“Honour widows that are widows indeed. But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless. 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.” (I Timothy5:3-8)
The church is to help those who have no source of income. It is the family’s responsibility first. The life style of the recipient must be considered. We are not to help those who make no effort to support themselves, but to encourage them to begin to provide for themselves. Paul was quite explicit about this.
“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.” (II Thessalonians 3:10-12)
Our giving must not enable people to avoid taking their own responsibility, nor can it enable them to continue in sin. When we do so, we are partakers of their sin. If the church supports one who someone else is responsible for, they enable him to deny the Lord. They are to take their responsibility according to I Timothy 5:16. “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 past record of the recipient needs to be examined, as well as present abilities to provide for themselves, and taken into account in our giving. It should not be based on emotional feelings.
“Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;” (I Timothy 5:9-11)
Proper giving will result in God’s blessings on the giver. It also is a blessing to the recipient, strengthening him in his walk with Christ, and bringing glory and thanksgiving to God. Failure to give, or improper giving may be ineffective, or even do harm to the recipient or the giver.
“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men; And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” (II Corinthians 9:11-15)
Provide Things Honest In The Sight Of All Men
II Corinthians 8:16-9:5
In the early part of 2009, public figures have been accused of corruption at an unprecedented rate in the United States. Many of those accused are accountants and lawyers, as well as political figures. They have been entrusted with caring for other people’s money, and are in some cases making the rules. Bernie Madoff made off with billions of dollars. Others have mad off with less, but nearly all had accountants and regulations that were supposed to prevent such theft.
The best protection is the integrity of the person entrusted. That integrity will only be detected by watching the person over a period of time in various situations. Even honest men can be tempted when exposed to temptation repeatedly. Paul is sending a man chosen by the church, known for his stand to the people so that there can be no question as to whether Paul may have misused the money. He is accompanied by Titus, who has been demonstrated repeatedly to be faithful. Neither is predisposed to cheat, and the use of more than one decrease likelihood of theft. A Spiritual attitude demands that people have reason to trust. It also recognizes the human nature.
“But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you. And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us: Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you. Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.” (II Corinthians 8:16-23)
Love is not a spur of the moment feeling, but a consistent commitment to others over time, characterized by the attributes described in I Corinthians 13. Paul had instructed the church at Corinth to collect their offerings in advance in I Corinthians 16:1-2. “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.”
There are some definite advantages to this. Rather than giving out of emotion, people can give in genuine love for the person. They have time to decide how much they want to give and plan so that they do not run themselves short in other areas. This prevents feelings later that they wish they could have given more, and regrets that they ran themselves short. It usually results in greater gifts, and in greater care as to where the gifts are given, that they are pleasing to God. As I look back at the churches I visited on deputation, I see how wise Paul’s instruction is. The quick emotional response seldom produces a long term commitment. The planned giving shows real love.
“Wherefore show ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.2co 9:1 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.
Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready: Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting. Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up before hand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.” (II Corinthians 8:24-9:5)
Genuine love produces a commitment to consistent action. This is true in giving, in service, in marriage or in any other area. Jesus said that those who insist on the spectacular moments have no commitment, just lust in Matthew 16:4. “A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.”
In the early part of 2009, public figures have been accused of corruption at an unprecedented rate in the United States. Many of those accused are accountants and lawyers, as well as political figures. They have been entrusted with caring for other people’s money, and are in some cases making the rules. Bernie Madoff made off with billions of dollars. Others have mad off with less, but nearly all had accountants and regulations that were supposed to prevent such theft.
The best protection is the integrity of the person entrusted. That integrity will only be detected by watching the person over a period of time in various situations. Even honest men can be tempted when exposed to temptation repeatedly. Paul is sending a man chosen by the church, known for his stand to the people so that there can be no question as to whether Paul may have misused the money. He is accompanied by Titus, who has been demonstrated repeatedly to be faithful. Neither is predisposed to cheat, and the use of more than one decrease likelihood of theft. A Spiritual attitude demands that people have reason to trust. It also recognizes the human nature.
“But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you. And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us: Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you. Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.” (II Corinthians 8:16-23)
Love is not a spur of the moment feeling, but a consistent commitment to others over time, characterized by the attributes described in I Corinthians 13. Paul had instructed the church at Corinth to collect their offerings in advance in I Corinthians 16:1-2. “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.”
There are some definite advantages to this. Rather than giving out of emotion, people can give in genuine love for the person. They have time to decide how much they want to give and plan so that they do not run themselves short in other areas. This prevents feelings later that they wish they could have given more, and regrets that they ran themselves short. It usually results in greater gifts, and in greater care as to where the gifts are given, that they are pleasing to God. As I look back at the churches I visited on deputation, I see how wise Paul’s instruction is. The quick emotional response seldom produces a long term commitment. The planned giving shows real love.
“Wherefore show ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.2co 9:1 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.
Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready: Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting. Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up before hand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.” (II Corinthians 8:24-9:5)
Genuine love produces a commitment to consistent action. This is true in giving, in service, in marriage or in any other area. Jesus said that those who insist on the spectacular moments have no commitment, just lust in Matthew 16:4. “A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.”
Make Not My Fathers's House An House Of Merchandise
II Corinthians 8:1-15
Financial matters are a source of problems for many churches. As a result. Churches hold various fundraising programs, from Bingo games, church suppers, sales of cookbooks, recordings, and candy to Faith Promise Missions conferences. One group checks on the monthly earnings of their members, then sends them a bill for their tithe. Many others get their members to pledge a certain amount weekly, and send notices if it is not received. Evangelists pass the plate, and if there isn’t enough money, pass it again. The plate is regularly passed to meet special needs.
Many people have the impression that the church is only interested in money. Every time they go, they are asked for more. John 2 describes Jesus running out those who were selling items for worship in the temple.
“This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days. And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise.” (John 2:11-16)
The church is not to be a business, and the gifts and service of God are not to be used to make us a profit. Churches with bookstores, daycare centers, or apartments come very close to, if not overstepping this principle, as do many other present day church activities. Simon the Sorcerer fell into this in Acts 8. Peter makes it clear that this was not the result of spiritual leadership, but of a carnal, and sinful state.
“And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.” (Acts 8:18-23)
Paul starts the passage by showing the spiritual attitude of the Macedonian Christians in their giving. They were in poverty themselves, yet gave tremendous amounts, far beyond any reasonable expectation. They were not asked to give, but asking for the privilege. Almost every new Christian has that attitude of wanting to give. It is a direct result of the fruit of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Far too often the unspiritual attitude of the church destroys that attitude. Paul seeks demonstrate a Spiritual attitude by the example.
“Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much entreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.” (II Corinthians 8:1-6
The Macedonians devoted themselves to Christ, and thus to following the lead of Paul and his helpers. As a result their giving was out of love, and far exceeded what would have been expected. Titus has been sent to encourage the Corinthians in a similar manner, building on what they had started in I Corinthians 16 the year before.
“Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.” (II Corinthians 8:7-10)
Giving is as much a part of the Christian life as any other aspect such as witnessing, or faith. It is not to be done from a sense of obligation so Paul is not commanding them to give, but suggesting that they follow the example of the Macedonians. If they understand what Christ has done, and appreciate it, they will see it as an opportunity to do as he did They will find it beneficial to their own spiritual state.
“Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.” (II Corinthians 8:11-15)
A lady in Farmington New Mexico told of being some what depressed after their church had committed to supporting a missionary to the Navajo Reservation. Her and her husband postponed purchasing some things they needed in order to help that missionary, including both furniture and a car. The missionary proceeded to buy one of the most expensive houses in town. She described how itr hurt to drive by his house on her way to church and see snowmobiles, jet skis and boats, when they needed a new couch to sit on. God never intended such situations.
God did not want churches in one area to support churches in another area, but that there should be an equality. Sharing is a mutual thing. Both sides are to share, not just one give to the other. Properly done, both will be able to do what is needed, without either one being unduly burdened. God’s intent was that each one depend on God to supply their needs. While others can help out, we are not to depend on them, but on God. It is often easier to ask people than to trust God.
Financial matters are a source of problems for many churches. As a result. Churches hold various fundraising programs, from Bingo games, church suppers, sales of cookbooks, recordings, and candy to Faith Promise Missions conferences. One group checks on the monthly earnings of their members, then sends them a bill for their tithe. Many others get their members to pledge a certain amount weekly, and send notices if it is not received. Evangelists pass the plate, and if there isn’t enough money, pass it again. The plate is regularly passed to meet special needs.
Many people have the impression that the church is only interested in money. Every time they go, they are asked for more. John 2 describes Jesus running out those who were selling items for worship in the temple.
“This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days. And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise.” (John 2:11-16)
The church is not to be a business, and the gifts and service of God are not to be used to make us a profit. Churches with bookstores, daycare centers, or apartments come very close to, if not overstepping this principle, as do many other present day church activities. Simon the Sorcerer fell into this in Acts 8. Peter makes it clear that this was not the result of spiritual leadership, but of a carnal, and sinful state.
“And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.” (Acts 8:18-23)
Paul starts the passage by showing the spiritual attitude of the Macedonian Christians in their giving. They were in poverty themselves, yet gave tremendous amounts, far beyond any reasonable expectation. They were not asked to give, but asking for the privilege. Almost every new Christian has that attitude of wanting to give. It is a direct result of the fruit of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Far too often the unspiritual attitude of the church destroys that attitude. Paul seeks demonstrate a Spiritual attitude by the example.
“Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much entreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.” (II Corinthians 8:1-6
The Macedonians devoted themselves to Christ, and thus to following the lead of Paul and his helpers. As a result their giving was out of love, and far exceeded what would have been expected. Titus has been sent to encourage the Corinthians in a similar manner, building on what they had started in I Corinthians 16 the year before.
“Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.” (II Corinthians 8:7-10)
Giving is as much a part of the Christian life as any other aspect such as witnessing, or faith. It is not to be done from a sense of obligation so Paul is not commanding them to give, but suggesting that they follow the example of the Macedonians. If they understand what Christ has done, and appreciate it, they will see it as an opportunity to do as he did They will find it beneficial to their own spiritual state.
“Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.” (II Corinthians 8:11-15)
A lady in Farmington New Mexico told of being some what depressed after their church had committed to supporting a missionary to the Navajo Reservation. Her and her husband postponed purchasing some things they needed in order to help that missionary, including both furniture and a car. The missionary proceeded to buy one of the most expensive houses in town. She described how itr hurt to drive by his house on her way to church and see snowmobiles, jet skis and boats, when they needed a new couch to sit on. God never intended such situations.
God did not want churches in one area to support churches in another area, but that there should be an equality. Sharing is a mutual thing. Both sides are to share, not just one give to the other. Properly done, both will be able to do what is needed, without either one being unduly burdened. God’s intent was that each one depend on God to supply their needs. While others can help out, we are not to depend on them, but on God. It is often easier to ask people than to trust God.
Loving Rebuke
II Corinthians 7:2-16
"Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man. I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.” (II Corinthians 7:2-3)
As ambassadors for Christ, Paul and his cohorts had maintained a standard of behavior that would not turn the people away. Their actions demonstrated their love instead. That same love encouraged him to speak freely to them. Trials had burdened them, but when Titus came and told of the Corinthian’s faith, Paul was able to rejoice freely.
“Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation. For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.” (II Corinthians 7:4-7)
A little boy had seen his father weeding the garden. One day while his father was at work, he decided to help his Dad. He carefully pulled what he thought was the weeds. When his father went to work in the garden that evening, he found that the boy had mistaken the vegetables and flowers for weeds, and left the weeds. It would be necessary to remove the weeds, and totally replant the garden.
The father did not want to discourage the child from helping, but they couldn’t allow him to pull up the wrong things again, so he explained how to tell which plants were the vegetables and which were weeds, and got the boy to help replant. The little boy went on to become a rather famous garden expert. Many other fathers, by their anger over such a mistake, have caused their children not to desire to help any more. By pointing out the mistake in love rather than in anger, the father encouraged his son.
While Paul had expected the Corinthians to obey his first letter, there was some trepidation that they might take offense instead. Titus’ coming made it clear that instead, they had acted on what he had written, and begun to straighten out the conflicts. While they had been upset, it was that they had failed to do as they should,. They could have just been angry at what Paul had written, and blamed him for such a negative letter, resulting in further sin. Their obedience has removed his doubt.
“For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season. Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.“ (II Corinthians 7:8-10)
The sincere effort they have put into correcting these problems demonstrates that his confidence in their love for God was not misplaced, nor was his love for them. He had not written out of favoritism, but love for the entire church. Paul’s experience is like that of a parent who has to tell their child that they have done something wrong when the child thought they were doing the right thing. While the child may be upset at having to redo the job, If they really want to do it right, they will go over and beyond the minimum.
“For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you..“ (II Corinthians 7:11-12)
Such an attitude of desire to do right is a comfort to parents. It becomes easy to brag about such children. Titus was properly impressed by what they had done as well, which was a relief to Paul.
“Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all. For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth. And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him. I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things..“ (II Corinthians 7:13-16)
"Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man. I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.” (II Corinthians 7:2-3)
As ambassadors for Christ, Paul and his cohorts had maintained a standard of behavior that would not turn the people away. Their actions demonstrated their love instead. That same love encouraged him to speak freely to them. Trials had burdened them, but when Titus came and told of the Corinthian’s faith, Paul was able to rejoice freely.
“Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation. For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.” (II Corinthians 7:4-7)
A little boy had seen his father weeding the garden. One day while his father was at work, he decided to help his Dad. He carefully pulled what he thought was the weeds. When his father went to work in the garden that evening, he found that the boy had mistaken the vegetables and flowers for weeds, and left the weeds. It would be necessary to remove the weeds, and totally replant the garden.
The father did not want to discourage the child from helping, but they couldn’t allow him to pull up the wrong things again, so he explained how to tell which plants were the vegetables and which were weeds, and got the boy to help replant. The little boy went on to become a rather famous garden expert. Many other fathers, by their anger over such a mistake, have caused their children not to desire to help any more. By pointing out the mistake in love rather than in anger, the father encouraged his son.
While Paul had expected the Corinthians to obey his first letter, there was some trepidation that they might take offense instead. Titus’ coming made it clear that instead, they had acted on what he had written, and begun to straighten out the conflicts. While they had been upset, it was that they had failed to do as they should,. They could have just been angry at what Paul had written, and blamed him for such a negative letter, resulting in further sin. Their obedience has removed his doubt.
“For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season. Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.“ (II Corinthians 7:8-10)
The sincere effort they have put into correcting these problems demonstrates that his confidence in their love for God was not misplaced, nor was his love for them. He had not written out of favoritism, but love for the entire church. Paul’s experience is like that of a parent who has to tell their child that they have done something wrong when the child thought they were doing the right thing. While the child may be upset at having to redo the job, If they really want to do it right, they will go over and beyond the minimum.
“For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you..“ (II Corinthians 7:11-12)
Such an attitude of desire to do right is a comfort to parents. It becomes easy to brag about such children. Titus was properly impressed by what they had done as well, which was a relief to Paul.
“Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all. For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth. And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him. I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things..“ (II Corinthians 7:13-16)
Unmatched Teams
II Corinthians 6:14-7:1
A wagon train was organized as part of the celebration of the Bicentennial in 1976. It was to travel from the west coast to Washington, D.C. Granddad Jenkins and his brother were two of the participants, traveling across Colorado. Most of the wagons were pulled by horses, but one ox was used. Since only one could be found, he had to be paired with a horse.
It was quickly discovered that while he was stronger than the horses, the ox could not keep up with the horses. Horses could not pull as large a load but walked at four to five miles per hour, while the ox could only maintain about three miles per hour. By the end of a few miles, the horse was exhausted from trying to drag the ox, and the ox was exhausted from trying to keep up. The owners finally got another horse, and had the ox trucked from town to town. They only used him to help pull through the towns.
It is relatively easy to compensate for a strong horse pulling with a weaker one, but nearly impossible to compensate for the different walking speeds between a horse and an ox. It is relatively easy for a strong and a weak Christian to work together because they both have the mind of Christ. It is very difficult for a Christian to work full time with an unsaved person, because their mind set, and their understanding is so different.
II Corinthians 2:14-16 points out the inability to communicate fully. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” Neither will ever be fully able to understand the others logic, and this will produce unnecessary conflict. There is not enough in common to make it easy.
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (II Corinthians 6:14-17)
As Paul says in I Corinthians 6:12, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” I need to separate myself from any connection that seek to control my life in so far a s possible. We need also to realize that sometimes we can’t get out of ones we are already in, such as a marriage or a job. I Corinthians 6:14-7:40 deals with some of these.
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (II Corinthians 6:18-7:1)
A farmer kept several hens and ducks in a pen. That spring, about 25 chicks were hatched. Several duck eggs also hatched. A couple of hens were left with the chicks. Ducklings and chicks were together and while looking different, all acted like chickens.
One day the farmer let them out into the barnyard. The ducklings soon followed the other ducks into the pond, because water was not frightening to them. The chicks were frightened, and did not follow. From that time, the ducklings spent most of their time with the other ducks, and the chicks with the chickens. The ducklings learned to swim and dive for their food., and how to use the water to escape from predators. Learning to be ducks came naturally to them, while acting like chickens did not..
As Christians, we are not the same as the world. We have a different outlook. Until the ducklings began to separate themselves and learn to be ducks, their lives were little different than those of the chickens. They could have lived acting like chickens, but they would have never been chickens, there would always be an unfulfilled part of their life. Until we separate ourselves unto God, and allow him to treat us as his children, we may act like the world, but there will never be total satisfaction.
A wagon train was organized as part of the celebration of the Bicentennial in 1976. It was to travel from the west coast to Washington, D.C. Granddad Jenkins and his brother were two of the participants, traveling across Colorado. Most of the wagons were pulled by horses, but one ox was used. Since only one could be found, he had to be paired with a horse.
It was quickly discovered that while he was stronger than the horses, the ox could not keep up with the horses. Horses could not pull as large a load but walked at four to five miles per hour, while the ox could only maintain about three miles per hour. By the end of a few miles, the horse was exhausted from trying to drag the ox, and the ox was exhausted from trying to keep up. The owners finally got another horse, and had the ox trucked from town to town. They only used him to help pull through the towns.
It is relatively easy to compensate for a strong horse pulling with a weaker one, but nearly impossible to compensate for the different walking speeds between a horse and an ox. It is relatively easy for a strong and a weak Christian to work together because they both have the mind of Christ. It is very difficult for a Christian to work full time with an unsaved person, because their mind set, and their understanding is so different.
II Corinthians 2:14-16 points out the inability to communicate fully. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” Neither will ever be fully able to understand the others logic, and this will produce unnecessary conflict. There is not enough in common to make it easy.
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (II Corinthians 6:14-17)
As Paul says in I Corinthians 6:12, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” I need to separate myself from any connection that seek to control my life in so far a s possible. We need also to realize that sometimes we can’t get out of ones we are already in, such as a marriage or a job. I Corinthians 6:14-7:40 deals with some of these.
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (II Corinthians 6:18-7:1)
A farmer kept several hens and ducks in a pen. That spring, about 25 chicks were hatched. Several duck eggs also hatched. A couple of hens were left with the chicks. Ducklings and chicks were together and while looking different, all acted like chickens.
One day the farmer let them out into the barnyard. The ducklings soon followed the other ducks into the pond, because water was not frightening to them. The chicks were frightened, and did not follow. From that time, the ducklings spent most of their time with the other ducks, and the chicks with the chickens. The ducklings learned to swim and dive for their food., and how to use the water to escape from predators. Learning to be ducks came naturally to them, while acting like chickens did not..
As Christians, we are not the same as the world. We have a different outlook. Until the ducklings began to separate themselves and learn to be ducks, their lives were little different than those of the chickens. They could have lived acting like chickens, but they would have never been chickens, there would always be an unfulfilled part of their life. Until we separate ourselves unto God, and allow him to treat us as his children, we may act like the world, but there will never be total satisfaction.
Ambassadors for Christ
II Corinthians 5:20-6:13
When an ambassador is sent out, he represents the Government of the country. Any agreement he enters is considered as approved by the those he represents. He has been entrusted with accurately portraying the wishes and protecting the interests of those he represents. He is their personal spokesperson. It is almost the same as speaking to the leader himself.
"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” (II Corinthians 5:20-21)
An ambassador is assumed to be working with those he represents to accomplish a particular goal. As a token of good intent Israel may withdraw troops from a part of Gaza for example, in exchange for assurances that the Palestinians will stop firing missiles into Israel. Should the Palestinians fail to cease firing after the withdrawal, or to refuse to continue until the problems are resolved will make the withdrawal a vain effort. It failed to accomplish it‘s purpose. Jesus Christ has already paid for sins. To reject it makes his death in vain for the one who rejects it. Action needs to be taken promptly. To fail to go on into the spiritual life also makes most of what God offers worthless. Get the full benefit.
“We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) “ (II Corinthians 6:1-2)
An ambassador, to establish trust in those he is dealing with, must demonstrate respect for their customs, laws and procedures. Failure to do so implies that any agreement he makes will be ignored as soon as he has received his desired results. This is exactly why Paul stressed that one must never impose ones standards on others in I Corinthians 8-11. Our standards must never be allowed to hinder others. The spiritual man realizes that the Christian life is not about those physical things. Notice Paul’s description.
“Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” (II Corinthians 6:3-10)
Living in such a way that it is apparent that needs and desires of those he is trying reach will be respected, the ambassador builds trust, and removes reasons for rejecting the agreement. Paul has made sure that there is nothing in his life that causes distrust. No emphasis on personal benefit, or self promotion has been seen. It is not Paul or his associates actions holding back the Corinthians from full spiritual development. But their desire for fleshly things. To attain all that God wants to do in their lives, they must let him have his way.
"O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged. Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels. Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.” (II Corinthians 6:11-13)
When an ambassador is sent out, he represents the Government of the country. Any agreement he enters is considered as approved by the those he represents. He has been entrusted with accurately portraying the wishes and protecting the interests of those he represents. He is their personal spokesperson. It is almost the same as speaking to the leader himself.
"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” (II Corinthians 5:20-21)
An ambassador is assumed to be working with those he represents to accomplish a particular goal. As a token of good intent Israel may withdraw troops from a part of Gaza for example, in exchange for assurances that the Palestinians will stop firing missiles into Israel. Should the Palestinians fail to cease firing after the withdrawal, or to refuse to continue until the problems are resolved will make the withdrawal a vain effort. It failed to accomplish it‘s purpose. Jesus Christ has already paid for sins. To reject it makes his death in vain for the one who rejects it. Action needs to be taken promptly. To fail to go on into the spiritual life also makes most of what God offers worthless. Get the full benefit.
“We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) “ (II Corinthians 6:1-2)
An ambassador, to establish trust in those he is dealing with, must demonstrate respect for their customs, laws and procedures. Failure to do so implies that any agreement he makes will be ignored as soon as he has received his desired results. This is exactly why Paul stressed that one must never impose ones standards on others in I Corinthians 8-11. Our standards must never be allowed to hinder others. The spiritual man realizes that the Christian life is not about those physical things. Notice Paul’s description.
“Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” (II Corinthians 6:3-10)
Living in such a way that it is apparent that needs and desires of those he is trying reach will be respected, the ambassador builds trust, and removes reasons for rejecting the agreement. Paul has made sure that there is nothing in his life that causes distrust. No emphasis on personal benefit, or self promotion has been seen. It is not Paul or his associates actions holding back the Corinthians from full spiritual development. But their desire for fleshly things. To attain all that God wants to do in their lives, they must let him have his way.
"O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged. Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels. Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.” (II Corinthians 6:11-13)
A New Creature In Christ
I Corinthians 5:17-21
Alzheimer’s is a shocking disease. As it develops, people begin to forget things they have been in the habit of doing, and who others are. Every case is different, and the changes are erratic. Sometimes sweet loving mothers become mean and hateful, a danger to everyone around them. People who were impossible to get along with may become very docile and cooperative. The changes in their brains make them into someone totally different than they were before. Initially the changes may be intermittent, with erratic changes from one personality to the other.
When we become a Christian, The Holy Spirit moves into our life, and begins to change things in an equally dramatic fashion. A whole new attitude and out look develop.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.” (II Corinthians 5:17-19)
Just as in Alzheimer’s, there may be a period of switching back and forth between the spiritual and the natural mind. This leads to the internal conflict Paul describes in Romans 7:15-25.
“For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.”
Unlike the Alzheimer patient, who has no control of when he may switch, we as Christians can exercise control, but only by allowing the Holy spirit to take control. The natural body tries constantly to take us back to what we once were. By letting the Holy Spirit control our mind, the flesh will not gain the victory and as Galatians 5:16 tells us, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”
As long as we are in this body, the flesh will struggle to take control. The following passages help us understand exactly what we can do to get that victory. It starts with an attitude of humility and obedience, yielding ourselves to him.
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8)
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24)
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2)
Walking in the Spirit, with the attitude or mind of Christ, we will truly represent him to those we come in contact with. They will see what he is like, and be drawn to him. We are to give the world the best representation of him possible.
“Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” (II Corinthians 2:20-21)
The life we live before the world pictures our attitude about Christ. What picture do we portray?
Alzheimer’s is a shocking disease. As it develops, people begin to forget things they have been in the habit of doing, and who others are. Every case is different, and the changes are erratic. Sometimes sweet loving mothers become mean and hateful, a danger to everyone around them. People who were impossible to get along with may become very docile and cooperative. The changes in their brains make them into someone totally different than they were before. Initially the changes may be intermittent, with erratic changes from one personality to the other.
When we become a Christian, The Holy Spirit moves into our life, and begins to change things in an equally dramatic fashion. A whole new attitude and out look develop.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.” (II Corinthians 5:17-19)
Just as in Alzheimer’s, there may be a period of switching back and forth between the spiritual and the natural mind. This leads to the internal conflict Paul describes in Romans 7:15-25.
“For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.”
Unlike the Alzheimer patient, who has no control of when he may switch, we as Christians can exercise control, but only by allowing the Holy spirit to take control. The natural body tries constantly to take us back to what we once were. By letting the Holy Spirit control our mind, the flesh will not gain the victory and as Galatians 5:16 tells us, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”
As long as we are in this body, the flesh will struggle to take control. The following passages help us understand exactly what we can do to get that victory. It starts with an attitude of humility and obedience, yielding ourselves to him.
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8)
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24)
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2)
Walking in the Spirit, with the attitude or mind of Christ, we will truly represent him to those we come in contact with. They will see what he is like, and be drawn to him. We are to give the world the best representation of him possible.
“Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” (II Corinthians 2:20-21)
The life we live before the world pictures our attitude about Christ. What picture do we portray?
What's The Score?
II Corinthians 5:10-16
Shows such as Americas Got Talent or American Idol draw huge followings. People can’t wait to see how different performers do. Sometimes the criticisms by the judges really encourage the contestants. Other times they are really cast down by what one of the judges says. The opinions are very subjective, resulting in frequent disagreements between the Judges. Imagine knowing that these tree people can have such a beneficial or devastating impact on your career.
Now imagine yourself standing before God to be judged on your performance. You have had the best possible teacher, the Holy Spirit to teach you what he expected. You have had the same study materials, and equal opportunities to practice. How carefully you have practiced and how thoroughly you have studied will be revealed in your performance. Our judgment will be totally without bias. It will not be affected by what others have done, only what we did.
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.” (II Corinthians 5:10-11)
Because we know the impact on others future, we try to convince others to give their best. Doing our best in practice can encourage others to do their best. Hopefully they will recognize it and try to do as well or better. The judge, God will see that practice and part of our score is based on how well we helped and encouraged others.
Others will not get to vote on our position, so there’s no use trying to impress them, but we can them by setting an example that they can look at when others discourage them with the idea they don‘t look good enough. We can help them to understand that God looks on the heart, not the outward appearance.
“For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.” (II Corinthians 5:12-13)
As we understand the love of Christ, and man’s sin nature, we begin to understand that it was just as necessary for Christ to die for the fireman who risks his life to save other people’s homes as for the man on trial for murder. The same sacrifice is required for the pastor to be saved as for the Atheist. There is no difference between Jew and gentile. None of them could save themselves. Everyone of us has the same debt to Christ. We owe our lives to him.
“For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.” (II Corinthians 5:14-16)
Understanding that we were dead in sin., but are now alive to God, we don’t have the same understanding of those around us. The physical actions and attributes of those around us become of less importance, and their spiritual state becomes more important. Even our understanding of Christ is changed.
Shows such as Americas Got Talent or American Idol draw huge followings. People can’t wait to see how different performers do. Sometimes the criticisms by the judges really encourage the contestants. Other times they are really cast down by what one of the judges says. The opinions are very subjective, resulting in frequent disagreements between the Judges. Imagine knowing that these tree people can have such a beneficial or devastating impact on your career.
Now imagine yourself standing before God to be judged on your performance. You have had the best possible teacher, the Holy Spirit to teach you what he expected. You have had the same study materials, and equal opportunities to practice. How carefully you have practiced and how thoroughly you have studied will be revealed in your performance. Our judgment will be totally without bias. It will not be affected by what others have done, only what we did.
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.” (II Corinthians 5:10-11)
Because we know the impact on others future, we try to convince others to give their best. Doing our best in practice can encourage others to do their best. Hopefully they will recognize it and try to do as well or better. The judge, God will see that practice and part of our score is based on how well we helped and encouraged others.
Others will not get to vote on our position, so there’s no use trying to impress them, but we can them by setting an example that they can look at when others discourage them with the idea they don‘t look good enough. We can help them to understand that God looks on the heart, not the outward appearance.
“For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.” (II Corinthians 5:12-13)
As we understand the love of Christ, and man’s sin nature, we begin to understand that it was just as necessary for Christ to die for the fireman who risks his life to save other people’s homes as for the man on trial for murder. The same sacrifice is required for the pastor to be saved as for the Atheist. There is no difference between Jew and gentile. None of them could save themselves. Everyone of us has the same debt to Christ. We owe our lives to him.
“For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.” (II Corinthians 5:14-16)
Understanding that we were dead in sin., but are now alive to God, we don’t have the same understanding of those around us. The physical actions and attributes of those around us become of less importance, and their spiritual state becomes more important. Even our understanding of Christ is changed.
Motivated to Serve
II Corinthians 4:15-5:9
My great grandfather left Germany when he was 13 years old. He got aboard a ship to the United States and arrived near the end of the Civil war. Apparently he went through terrible hardship on the journey. Once he arrived in the U.S., since he spoke no English, he faced other hardships. He was a participant in the Oklahoma land rush, and proved up on his claim. We know only a few of the details of his life, as my grandfather last saw him when my grand father was about seven, and didn’t remember much.
In Germany, our family had had a small farm of about five acres. Great Granddad’s older brother would automatically inherit that, and there was nothing else. Germany was in a severely depressed state and people were dying of starvation. Great Granddad risked coming to the U.S. because he hoped for something better in the future. Believing in the future, he endured many hardships along the way so he and his family could have something better.
Hebrews 11:13-16 describes the commitment of the Old Testament saints. “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.”
They did not see the end result of their labors. Just as many of the immigrants to the U.S. did not live to see what they were seeking. Hebrews 11: 39-40 describes this. “And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.”
The spiritual motivation for serving God is that same attitude of hoping for something better, even though the complete benefits may not be seen in our lifetimes. Our actions now will benefit the next generation of Christians. We endure the tribulations because of our expectations for the future.
“For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (II Corinthians 4:15-18)
Unlike those coming to America, we have assurance that we will receive an eternal reward, even though the earthly one may be small. I Corinthians 15 assures us that our expectation is not blind faith, but has a basis in the fact of Christ’s resurrection. We don’t just hope, we know that salvation is real. Even if we die, we will receive the promised life in Heaven for eternity.
“For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.“ (II Corinthians 5:1-4)
Our salvation is the result of God’s work, and we are kept by the power of God according to I Peter 1:3-5. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
We have received the proof of our salvation in the form of the Holy Spirit. Part of his job is to assure us of our salvation according to Romans 8:16. If he is not there, Romans 8:9 tells us, we are not God’s children. We are able to be confident of the result.
“Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 2co 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.” (II Corinthians 5:5-9)
We know that we are saved, and we know that if we were to die, we would instantly be with the Lord. What happens on this earth is rather minor. We don’t seek to die, but it is not the end. We want to please the Lord that prepared these things for us.
My great grandfather left Germany when he was 13 years old. He got aboard a ship to the United States and arrived near the end of the Civil war. Apparently he went through terrible hardship on the journey. Once he arrived in the U.S., since he spoke no English, he faced other hardships. He was a participant in the Oklahoma land rush, and proved up on his claim. We know only a few of the details of his life, as my grandfather last saw him when my grand father was about seven, and didn’t remember much.
In Germany, our family had had a small farm of about five acres. Great Granddad’s older brother would automatically inherit that, and there was nothing else. Germany was in a severely depressed state and people were dying of starvation. Great Granddad risked coming to the U.S. because he hoped for something better in the future. Believing in the future, he endured many hardships along the way so he and his family could have something better.
Hebrews 11:13-16 describes the commitment of the Old Testament saints. “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.”
They did not see the end result of their labors. Just as many of the immigrants to the U.S. did not live to see what they were seeking. Hebrews 11: 39-40 describes this. “And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.”
The spiritual motivation for serving God is that same attitude of hoping for something better, even though the complete benefits may not be seen in our lifetimes. Our actions now will benefit the next generation of Christians. We endure the tribulations because of our expectations for the future.
“For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (II Corinthians 4:15-18)
Unlike those coming to America, we have assurance that we will receive an eternal reward, even though the earthly one may be small. I Corinthians 15 assures us that our expectation is not blind faith, but has a basis in the fact of Christ’s resurrection. We don’t just hope, we know that salvation is real. Even if we die, we will receive the promised life in Heaven for eternity.
“For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.“ (II Corinthians 5:1-4)
Our salvation is the result of God’s work, and we are kept by the power of God according to I Peter 1:3-5. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
We have received the proof of our salvation in the form of the Holy Spirit. Part of his job is to assure us of our salvation according to Romans 8:16. If he is not there, Romans 8:9 tells us, we are not God’s children. We are able to be confident of the result.
“Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 2co 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.” (II Corinthians 5:5-9)
We know that we are saved, and we know that if we were to die, we would instantly be with the Lord. What happens on this earth is rather minor. We don’t seek to die, but it is not the end. We want to please the Lord that prepared these things for us.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Just a Piece of Pottery
I Corinthians 4:3-7
Did you ever drive down a highway and see an area where they had painted yellow stripes across the highway to keep the cows out of an area? It seems ridiculous doesn’t it. That paint doesn’t appear to offer any barrier to the cows, yet they rarely cross it in daylight.
Temple Grandin, in Animals in Translation, explains that while cows are partially colorblind, yellow is a color that is extremely visible to them. Since they normally only see small flower sized amounts, a large stripe seems very out of place, and they focus on it to the exclusion of other things. Because the color so fully occupies their attention, they don’t see it as part of the road. It looks dangerous to try to cross. At night, they don’t see the color clearly, and cross without concern.
Just ass the darkness causes the cows not to see the yellow stripes clearly, and thus to ignore them, Satan has blinded people’s minds to prevent their clearly seeing what God offers, and the danger of ignoring it.
“But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” (II Corinthians 4:3-4)
The message is not about us, or our opinions and standards, but about Jesus Christ. We are just servants to those we take the message to, and we take that position because we love Christ. Like the daylight allows the cows to see the paint clearly, God has enabled us to see clearly the salvation and life Christ provides for us. That same light then shines through us to those around us.
“For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” (II Corinthians 4:5-7)
Many designers and interior Decorators in our area have begun to use light fixtures made from Indian pottery for accent lighting. While the pottery is opaque and blocks the light, carefully cut openings direct the light to the features the designer wishes to emphasize. The contrast of the lighted and unlighted areas can be very dramatic.
By showing his eternal power through human vessels, God emphasizes the difference between what he has done and what man can do. When the light is on, the pottery fixture is less noticeable because of the light shining from it. When the light is off you see only the pottery. When Christ is not shining through us, others see only the man, but when he is, the man only serves to emphasize Christ. The flaws, problems, and discouragements begin to make his actions in our life more obvious, as people see how these things affect us. Without him, we are just a piece of pottery, but with him we are a light.
“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.” (II Corinthians 4:8-11)
It is only as the man begins to disappear that Christ is seen. As we die to our own goals, standards, and desires, we are able to offer life through Christ to those around us, because he is what they begin to see. Since it is the same Spirit of faith that we have, he will give the same reward for faith to us as to others, although it seems that we are missing out at the moment. Our faith enables us to face these things and testify of Christ.
“So then death worketh in us, but life in you. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.” (II Corinthians 4:12-14)
Did you ever drive down a highway and see an area where they had painted yellow stripes across the highway to keep the cows out of an area? It seems ridiculous doesn’t it. That paint doesn’t appear to offer any barrier to the cows, yet they rarely cross it in daylight.
Temple Grandin, in Animals in Translation, explains that while cows are partially colorblind, yellow is a color that is extremely visible to them. Since they normally only see small flower sized amounts, a large stripe seems very out of place, and they focus on it to the exclusion of other things. Because the color so fully occupies their attention, they don’t see it as part of the road. It looks dangerous to try to cross. At night, they don’t see the color clearly, and cross without concern.
Just ass the darkness causes the cows not to see the yellow stripes clearly, and thus to ignore them, Satan has blinded people’s minds to prevent their clearly seeing what God offers, and the danger of ignoring it.
“But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” (II Corinthians 4:3-4)
The message is not about us, or our opinions and standards, but about Jesus Christ. We are just servants to those we take the message to, and we take that position because we love Christ. Like the daylight allows the cows to see the paint clearly, God has enabled us to see clearly the salvation and life Christ provides for us. That same light then shines through us to those around us.
“For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” (II Corinthians 4:5-7)
Many designers and interior Decorators in our area have begun to use light fixtures made from Indian pottery for accent lighting. While the pottery is opaque and blocks the light, carefully cut openings direct the light to the features the designer wishes to emphasize. The contrast of the lighted and unlighted areas can be very dramatic.
By showing his eternal power through human vessels, God emphasizes the difference between what he has done and what man can do. When the light is on, the pottery fixture is less noticeable because of the light shining from it. When the light is off you see only the pottery. When Christ is not shining through us, others see only the man, but when he is, the man only serves to emphasize Christ. The flaws, problems, and discouragements begin to make his actions in our life more obvious, as people see how these things affect us. Without him, we are just a piece of pottery, but with him we are a light.
“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.” (II Corinthians 4:8-11)
It is only as the man begins to disappear that Christ is seen. As we die to our own goals, standards, and desires, we are able to offer life through Christ to those around us, because he is what they begin to see. Since it is the same Spirit of faith that we have, he will give the same reward for faith to us as to others, although it seems that we are missing out at the moment. Our faith enables us to face these things and testify of Christ.
“So then death worketh in us, but life in you. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.” (II Corinthians 4:12-14)
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Chiquita
II Corinthians 3:17-4:2
When I was in high school, we had a donkey named Chiquita. Us boys regularly took her with us on hikes through the canyons and mountains around Navajo, New Mexico. Not too long after we got her, we took her up a rather hard place to climb. She baulked and we couldn’t make her go no matter what we did. Finally, we decided to drag a dead tree across the canyon so she couldn’t run away and leave her there while we went on up. We’d get her on our way back.
Taking the lead rope off, we went on up the trail. We’d gone quite a ways when we realized Chiquita was right behind us. Though the area we were in at the moment was flat and had a lot of grass, she made no effort to get off the trail, so we left her loose. At the next hard spot, she watched to see where we were going. Then she went a different way that was a lot easier then the way we’d gone. At another spot, she waited until we were out of the way, then came up in a series of lunges that would have been hard to avoid for us. The lead rope wouldn’t have given her room enough.
Going back she did the same things, choosing a much better way at the place she’d baulked before. We realized that what looked best to us might not be best for her, and when we gave her freedom, she always got where we were going. We just had to show her where we wanted to go. After learning that, we found that there was almost no place we couldn’t take her. She could, and would go anywhere a dog could go, and carry our stuff for us.
These same principles are very applicable to leading people into a close walk with the Lord. In I Corinthians 8-11. Paul stressed the idea that a spiritual man would not impose his standards on others, but give them freedom to follow as the Spirit leads them. Those standards may hinder their walk with God. The best way for them to go may not be best for me. The Holy spirit gives liberty. ” Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (II Corinthians 3:17) The absence of liberty implies the Spirit is not in control.
Just as our goal was to get ourselves and the donkey all to the same destination, God’s goal is for us all to come to the same spiritual place, where we are all like Christ. This will be accomplished by getting to know Christ intimately. As we get close to him, and walk with him, the Holy Spirit begins to make us more like him. This is over and beyond the natural tendency to imitate those we associate with. The more clearly we see him, the more like him we’ll be. “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” (II Corinthians 3:18)
In order for Chiquita to know where we were going, we had to lead the way, to set an example. To lead people to a spiritual walk with the Lord, we also need to set an example. It is impossible to lead people where you don’t go. In order to lead his people where God wants them, Paul has chosen to eliminate certain things from his life because they might prevent people seeing Christ clearly. They might cause others to quit following or become discouraged.
“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.” (II Corinthians 4:1-2)
By clearly demonstrating the power of God in their own lives, Paul and his companions showed others what God expected, and also demonstrated their own relationship and qualifications to their hearers. This is an example for us.
When I was in high school, we had a donkey named Chiquita. Us boys regularly took her with us on hikes through the canyons and mountains around Navajo, New Mexico. Not too long after we got her, we took her up a rather hard place to climb. She baulked and we couldn’t make her go no matter what we did. Finally, we decided to drag a dead tree across the canyon so she couldn’t run away and leave her there while we went on up. We’d get her on our way back.
Taking the lead rope off, we went on up the trail. We’d gone quite a ways when we realized Chiquita was right behind us. Though the area we were in at the moment was flat and had a lot of grass, she made no effort to get off the trail, so we left her loose. At the next hard spot, she watched to see where we were going. Then she went a different way that was a lot easier then the way we’d gone. At another spot, she waited until we were out of the way, then came up in a series of lunges that would have been hard to avoid for us. The lead rope wouldn’t have given her room enough.
Going back she did the same things, choosing a much better way at the place she’d baulked before. We realized that what looked best to us might not be best for her, and when we gave her freedom, she always got where we were going. We just had to show her where we wanted to go. After learning that, we found that there was almost no place we couldn’t take her. She could, and would go anywhere a dog could go, and carry our stuff for us.
These same principles are very applicable to leading people into a close walk with the Lord. In I Corinthians 8-11. Paul stressed the idea that a spiritual man would not impose his standards on others, but give them freedom to follow as the Spirit leads them. Those standards may hinder their walk with God. The best way for them to go may not be best for me. The Holy spirit gives liberty. ” Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (II Corinthians 3:17) The absence of liberty implies the Spirit is not in control.
Just as our goal was to get ourselves and the donkey all to the same destination, God’s goal is for us all to come to the same spiritual place, where we are all like Christ. This will be accomplished by getting to know Christ intimately. As we get close to him, and walk with him, the Holy Spirit begins to make us more like him. This is over and beyond the natural tendency to imitate those we associate with. The more clearly we see him, the more like him we’ll be. “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” (II Corinthians 3:18)
In order for Chiquita to know where we were going, we had to lead the way, to set an example. To lead people to a spiritual walk with the Lord, we also need to set an example. It is impossible to lead people where you don’t go. In order to lead his people where God wants them, Paul has chosen to eliminate certain things from his life because they might prevent people seeing Christ clearly. They might cause others to quit following or become discouraged.
“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.” (II Corinthians 4:1-2)
By clearly demonstrating the power of God in their own lives, Paul and his companions showed others what God expected, and also demonstrated their own relationship and qualifications to their hearers. This is an example for us.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Unveiled
II Corinthians 3:5-16
Many freeways have posted maximum and minimum speeds. These laws are designed to prevent accidents by keeping people from driving either so slowly or so fast as to cause accidents. A severe snowfall or rain may make it unsafe to drive even as fast as the minimum speed. An emergency vehicle may need to exceed the speed limit to save lives. While the goal of the law is to save lives, there are times when too strict adherence to the law may endanger them instead. Recognizing that the intent of the law, the spirit of the law is saving lives, provisions are made for when the law would endanger lives if enforced exactly as written, the letter of the law.
Despite their best intentions. people break the law from time to time, and if caught, must pay the penalty. The Old Testament law required a blood sacrifice for sin, and the blood of animals could only postpone judgment, never pay the penalty. There was no such thing as not getting caught. Christ paid the penalty in full, then substituted his righteousness for ours. The spirit of the law has been met, even though the letter has not. No further penalty is required.
“Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” (II Corinthians 3:5-6)
Exodus 34:29-35 describes the return of Moses from receiving the ten commandments and his time receiving God’s directions.
“And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him. And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him. And Moses called unto them; and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him: and Moses talked with them. And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh: and he gave them in commandment all that the LORD had spoken with him in mount Sinai.
And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a veil on his face. But when Moses went in before the LORD to speak with him, he took the veil off, until he came out. And he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded. And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the veil upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.”
Man’s nature is described in Romans 3:10-12. “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.” Man naturally goes against God and what is right. Even when they try to do right, humans do things that are wrong, and some don‘t try.
The ten commandments were given so people could know what was right. Like the speed limit sign, it reminded us what was required, making us aware of our guilt, and reminding us of the penalty. Romans 3:19-20 describes the effect. “Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” The penalty for sin is death according to Romans 6:23, and bringing the law only emphasized the fact, yet it produced such glory.
“But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.” (II Corinthians 3:7-11)
If the message that everyone deserved to die produced such great glory, think how much greater the glory is for the message found in I Corinthians 15:22. “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” We ought to want everyone to get the entire picture as clearly as possible.
“Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same veil untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which veil is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away.” (II Corinthians 3:12-16)
Unfortunately, some do not want to see the glory of God revealed, choosing to ignore the message. That is their choice, but as John 3:18 says, “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
Many freeways have posted maximum and minimum speeds. These laws are designed to prevent accidents by keeping people from driving either so slowly or so fast as to cause accidents. A severe snowfall or rain may make it unsafe to drive even as fast as the minimum speed. An emergency vehicle may need to exceed the speed limit to save lives. While the goal of the law is to save lives, there are times when too strict adherence to the law may endanger them instead. Recognizing that the intent of the law, the spirit of the law is saving lives, provisions are made for when the law would endanger lives if enforced exactly as written, the letter of the law.
Despite their best intentions. people break the law from time to time, and if caught, must pay the penalty. The Old Testament law required a blood sacrifice for sin, and the blood of animals could only postpone judgment, never pay the penalty. There was no such thing as not getting caught. Christ paid the penalty in full, then substituted his righteousness for ours. The spirit of the law has been met, even though the letter has not. No further penalty is required.
“Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” (II Corinthians 3:5-6)
Exodus 34:29-35 describes the return of Moses from receiving the ten commandments and his time receiving God’s directions.
“And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him. And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him. And Moses called unto them; and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him: and Moses talked with them. And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh: and he gave them in commandment all that the LORD had spoken with him in mount Sinai.
And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a veil on his face. But when Moses went in before the LORD to speak with him, he took the veil off, until he came out. And he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded. And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the veil upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.”
Man’s nature is described in Romans 3:10-12. “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.” Man naturally goes against God and what is right. Even when they try to do right, humans do things that are wrong, and some don‘t try.
The ten commandments were given so people could know what was right. Like the speed limit sign, it reminded us what was required, making us aware of our guilt, and reminding us of the penalty. Romans 3:19-20 describes the effect. “Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” The penalty for sin is death according to Romans 6:23, and bringing the law only emphasized the fact, yet it produced such glory.
“But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.” (II Corinthians 3:7-11)
If the message that everyone deserved to die produced such great glory, think how much greater the glory is for the message found in I Corinthians 15:22. “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” We ought to want everyone to get the entire picture as clearly as possible.
“Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same veil untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which veil is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away.” (II Corinthians 3:12-16)
Unfortunately, some do not want to see the glory of God revealed, choosing to ignore the message. That is their choice, but as John 3:18 says, “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
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