II Thessalonians 3:1-18
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” (II Thessalonians 3:1-2)
It is easy to forget that pastors and missionaries have the same temptations as other people. They can and frequently walk in the flesh rather than the spirit just like other people, hindering the Holy Spirit’s work. The old monasteries were formed to isolate themselves from sin and the world. Sometimes pastors missionaries and church workers do the same. It doesn’t prevent sin or temptation, but may allow it to become worse because they let down their guard. They need prayer to avoid temptation just as much as anyone else.
In doing their work, especially that of evangelism, Christian workers are going to face persecution. In II Timothy 3:12, Paul tells us, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” Some will abuse their power, and others will try to kill or destroy a reputation. Paul experienced this as Acts describes so often. Prayer for boldness in face of persecution, and for actual physical deliverance are needed.
Anyone who has ever tried to lose weight by just eating less knows how weak their will power is. Paul described his struggle in Romans 7, finishing with the statement that deliverance would only come from God. In Galatians 5 we find that temperance or self control is part of the fruit of the spirit, and verse 16 tells us, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Living a pure, holy life is not dependent on our will power, but on allowing God to have his way, and trusting him to produce proper behavior.
“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.” (II Thessalonians 3:3-5)
Too often our trust is in our ability to not sin, rather than in God to prevent temptation. God can be trusted to do what he said, so our emphasis on not committing sin is often a result of not trusting him. We are not to overlook or indulge in sin, but we are to trust God to enable us to avoid it. Some teaching against sin is sin itself, because Romans 14:23b says “for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” We can expect the Lord to enable us and others to overcome sin, and to keep ourselves and others faithful to him. This still leaves us with responsibilities.
If someone gets caught up in sin, we have a responsibility to try to get them to forsake their sin and serve Christ. Galatians 6:1 describes this. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” We are not immune to sin ourselves, so must deal with that of others from a standpoint of humility, rather than of power, but we must deal with it lest we or others get involved. I Corinthians 5 and Matthew 18:15-17 describe the procedure to be followed, and the types of sins involved. Separation is essential if a person refuses to straighten out their life, and do what is right.
“Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.” (II Thessalonians 3:6)
Paul stated that a man who wouldn’t provide for his own family was worse than some one who denies Christ in I Timothy 5:8. “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.” As a result, he and his associates had refused to live off the largesse of their people, although they had the right to do so. They had refused to establish an example for their people. It is not the churches responsibility to provide for people who refuse to take responsibility for themselves.
“For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. 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 3:7-12)
While the church has a responsibility to help those who cannot help themselves, and to support their pastor, it is each individual’s responsibility to take care of their own business. Faith produces obedience. To refuse to obey God is not faith, but sin, despite the claims of some. We ought not get discouraged that things are not producing the results we expected, but as Hebrews 12:1-3 instructs, stay focused on what God has given us to do. The last half of Hebrews 11 stresses that while some saw miracles, others did not, and all of them died in faith, none having seen the end they were looking for.
“But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.” (II Thessalonians 3:13-15)
Those who are involved in immorality are to be treated as a heathen or a publican, not as an enemy, but as an unsaved person, one we are cautious in our involvement with. With lesser sins, we wish to make them aware of our disapproval, but as we would do with a wayward little brother, not as an enemy.
“Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” (II Thessalonians 3:16-18)
Paul’s usual salutation, expressing a desire that they might experience Gods peace and his wonderful gifts in their lives, walking with him daily. As is indicated in several of his other letters, only the salutation was actually written by him. The balance was dictated by him and written by an amanuensis or scribe, probably as a result of an eye problem.
Showing posts with label II Thessalonians. Show all posts
Showing posts with label II Thessalonians. Show all posts
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Chosen by God
II Thessalonians 2:13-17
“But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Thessalonians 2:13-14)
While there are those who have chosen to not believe and thus do not receive Christ and his blessings, the Thessalonians have chosen to receive him. One of the biggest conflicts between so called Christians revolves around this idea of being chosen of God. There are two major positions. The Hyper Calvinist position is that salvation is completely of God, and man has no part in it. The Arminian position is that salvation is completely a result of man’s action. Both sides point to various proof texts to support their position.
II Peter says that the scripture can be depended on, but that we cannot use a private interpretation, that we cannot separate out one passage to prove a position. “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost,” (II Peter 2:19-21). To try to interpret privately leads to false conclusions. II Timothy 3:16-17 advises, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
Since it is all God’s word, one part cannot be selected as more inspired or greater than another. All must be accepted as true. To decide what the truth is will require reconciling all the scriptures relating to the subject. II Timothy 2:15 tells us that to properly understand what God wants will require study. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
The Arminian position must ignore many scriptures relating to our being elected or chosen of God, such as the our present passage, or Mark 13:20. “And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.” The Hyper Calvinist position is forced to ignore verses such as II Peter 3:9, which tells us that God does not want anyone to face damnation. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”
Neither position fits all the scriptures, therefore neither can be correct. I Peter 1:2 provides a means of reconciling all the scriptures. We are “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ:” We have been elected in advance according to what God knew about us, and yet we still had to choose. Exactly how that works, I cannot describe except to say God knew each of us before we were created.
Because we have been chosen, and because we know what judgment will come on the unbelievers, there should be a difference in our attitudes and actions. “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” (II Peter 3:10-14)
Because we are looking for eternal life for ourselves, and expecting judgment on those who don’t believe, we need to allow God to have his way in our lives. Trusting him and obeying his commands establish conditions in which he can work freely. Like a tree given proper conditions, the Holy Spirit will produce fruit.
“Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.” (II Thessalonians 2:15-17)
“But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Thessalonians 2:13-14)
While there are those who have chosen to not believe and thus do not receive Christ and his blessings, the Thessalonians have chosen to receive him. One of the biggest conflicts between so called Christians revolves around this idea of being chosen of God. There are two major positions. The Hyper Calvinist position is that salvation is completely of God, and man has no part in it. The Arminian position is that salvation is completely a result of man’s action. Both sides point to various proof texts to support their position.
II Peter says that the scripture can be depended on, but that we cannot use a private interpretation, that we cannot separate out one passage to prove a position. “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost,” (II Peter 2:19-21). To try to interpret privately leads to false conclusions. II Timothy 3:16-17 advises, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
Since it is all God’s word, one part cannot be selected as more inspired or greater than another. All must be accepted as true. To decide what the truth is will require reconciling all the scriptures relating to the subject. II Timothy 2:15 tells us that to properly understand what God wants will require study. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
The Arminian position must ignore many scriptures relating to our being elected or chosen of God, such as the our present passage, or Mark 13:20. “And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.” The Hyper Calvinist position is forced to ignore verses such as II Peter 3:9, which tells us that God does not want anyone to face damnation. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”
Neither position fits all the scriptures, therefore neither can be correct. I Peter 1:2 provides a means of reconciling all the scriptures. We are “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ:” We have been elected in advance according to what God knew about us, and yet we still had to choose. Exactly how that works, I cannot describe except to say God knew each of us before we were created.
Because we have been chosen, and because we know what judgment will come on the unbelievers, there should be a difference in our attitudes and actions. “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” (II Peter 3:10-14)
Because we are looking for eternal life for ourselves, and expecting judgment on those who don’t believe, we need to allow God to have his way in our lives. Trusting him and obeying his commands establish conditions in which he can work freely. Like a tree given proper conditions, the Holy Spirit will produce fruit.
“Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.” (II Thessalonians 2:15-17)
Friday, December 11, 2009
When They Open The Gate
II Thessalonians 2:6-12
Bull riding is a sport I never had much desire to participate in, although many guys I know have. I never had any desire to deliberately challenge a 2000 pound animal to see if he could hurt me. Nevertheless, some people get an adrenaline rush from doing so.
Bulls are herded into a chute where they have almost no room to move. A rope assembly is passed around the bull’s chest for the rider to hang on to. The rider climbs up above the bull and positions himself on the bull’s back with his legs held out of the way until the gate is open. The tightness of the chute leaves the bull with a sense of claustrophobia, which is heightened by all the activity. Many times the bull will begin to lunge in an effort to escape, forcing the cowboy to get clear until he settles back down.
When everything is to the bull rider’s satisfaction, he signals the gate keeper and the gate is opened. The bull now has the opportunity to release all the adrenaline that has built up from being forced to submit against his will. He does his best to eliminate all the restraints placed on him, frequently trying to kill the one at the center of it, the rider. Until the gatekeeper opened the gate, he was prevented from taking effective action, but once it is open, he is free to do whatever he can. This is similar to what will happen when the Lord returns.
"And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders: And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. ” (II Thessalonians 2:6-10.
Even before he enters the chute, the bull is dangerous, often threatening those around in an effort to intimidate. Satan was cast out of heaven because he wanted to take over God’s place according to Isaiah 14:12-14. His powers were limited, and are still being controlled to this day. His frustration is steadily building, and like the bull, he makes frequent attempts to break free. We see the results in the frequent surges of wickedness around the world. Like the bull, he will not be able to exert his full power until the gate that holds him is pulled aside. That will not happen until God is satisfied everything is ready.
When he is released, Satan will exert every power he has to destroy what has prevented his domination. He will be like a tyrant, killing not only those who oppose him, but also those who are unable to produce the results he desires, even sometimes killing his best because he didn’t get his way. He will promise anything in his effort to gain absolute control, even though he knows he will not be able to deliver. Those who have not received Christ will be persuaded because they have ignored the truth.
Totalitarian societies, such as Germany under Hitler, Russia under Stalin, China under Mao Tse Tung, or Iraq under Hussein all demonstrate what his rule will be like. Ronald Reagan’s characterizing the Soviet Bloc as the Evil Empire was far more apropriate than many have recognized. The philosophy of totalitarianism promises leads to the terrorism and efforts to establish world domination by various groups, and the rising tide of Anti-Christian sentiment around the world. It is Satanically inspired, and convinces people that cooperation will supply their every desire.
We see a massive movement toward a stronger world power today. It is being fueled by the world economic situation, terrorism, natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods, by threats of pandemics and health problems, and by scientific claims such as Global Warming. In the process, individuals and their lives are sacrificed for “the Greater good.” Always, the question arises, Who’s greater good? It is rare that the majority of people benefit.
Throughout history, the Holy Spirit has maintained a moral consciousness among humans, that has restrained most people from some things. In that day, he will step aside and they will have no inhibitions. People don’t realize how much those inhibitions protect them, and try to get rid of them. Most of us will not be murdered because most people have an innate aversion to committing murder, as an example.
“And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” (II Thessalonians 2:11-12)
Because man chooses to rebel against God’s protective guidelines, he will finally step aside and allow them to see the results. They will convince themselves that no limitations is what they want, leading to their eventual destruction. One professional bull rider said, after a while you have to understand that you are going to get hurt if you ride bulls. If you follow Satan’s plan, you will be damned.
Bull riding is a sport I never had much desire to participate in, although many guys I know have. I never had any desire to deliberately challenge a 2000 pound animal to see if he could hurt me. Nevertheless, some people get an adrenaline rush from doing so.
Bulls are herded into a chute where they have almost no room to move. A rope assembly is passed around the bull’s chest for the rider to hang on to. The rider climbs up above the bull and positions himself on the bull’s back with his legs held out of the way until the gate is open. The tightness of the chute leaves the bull with a sense of claustrophobia, which is heightened by all the activity. Many times the bull will begin to lunge in an effort to escape, forcing the cowboy to get clear until he settles back down.
When everything is to the bull rider’s satisfaction, he signals the gate keeper and the gate is opened. The bull now has the opportunity to release all the adrenaline that has built up from being forced to submit against his will. He does his best to eliminate all the restraints placed on him, frequently trying to kill the one at the center of it, the rider. Until the gatekeeper opened the gate, he was prevented from taking effective action, but once it is open, he is free to do whatever he can. This is similar to what will happen when the Lord returns.
"And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders: And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. ” (II Thessalonians 2:6-10.
Even before he enters the chute, the bull is dangerous, often threatening those around in an effort to intimidate. Satan was cast out of heaven because he wanted to take over God’s place according to Isaiah 14:12-14. His powers were limited, and are still being controlled to this day. His frustration is steadily building, and like the bull, he makes frequent attempts to break free. We see the results in the frequent surges of wickedness around the world. Like the bull, he will not be able to exert his full power until the gate that holds him is pulled aside. That will not happen until God is satisfied everything is ready.
When he is released, Satan will exert every power he has to destroy what has prevented his domination. He will be like a tyrant, killing not only those who oppose him, but also those who are unable to produce the results he desires, even sometimes killing his best because he didn’t get his way. He will promise anything in his effort to gain absolute control, even though he knows he will not be able to deliver. Those who have not received Christ will be persuaded because they have ignored the truth.
Totalitarian societies, such as Germany under Hitler, Russia under Stalin, China under Mao Tse Tung, or Iraq under Hussein all demonstrate what his rule will be like. Ronald Reagan’s characterizing the Soviet Bloc as the Evil Empire was far more apropriate than many have recognized. The philosophy of totalitarianism promises leads to the terrorism and efforts to establish world domination by various groups, and the rising tide of Anti-Christian sentiment around the world. It is Satanically inspired, and convinces people that cooperation will supply their every desire.
We see a massive movement toward a stronger world power today. It is being fueled by the world economic situation, terrorism, natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods, by threats of pandemics and health problems, and by scientific claims such as Global Warming. In the process, individuals and their lives are sacrificed for “the Greater good.” Always, the question arises, Who’s greater good? It is rare that the majority of people benefit.
Throughout history, the Holy Spirit has maintained a moral consciousness among humans, that has restrained most people from some things. In that day, he will step aside and they will have no inhibitions. People don’t realize how much those inhibitions protect them, and try to get rid of them. Most of us will not be murdered because most people have an innate aversion to committing murder, as an example.
“And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” (II Thessalonians 2:11-12)
Because man chooses to rebel against God’s protective guidelines, he will finally step aside and allow them to see the results. They will convince themselves that no limitations is what they want, leading to their eventual destruction. One professional bull rider said, after a while you have to understand that you are going to get hurt if you ride bulls. If you follow Satan’s plan, you will be damned.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Don’t Be All Shook Up
II Thessalonians 1:11-2:6
The Thessalonians had demonstrated strong spiritual life. Paul and his companions prayed that it would always be so. We cannot focus on what we have done, good or bad, nor can we dwell on what will happen tomorrow. We have the responsibility to live today. As they let Christ have control day by day, he would produce the results he wanted.
“Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Thessalonians 1:11-12)
When we walk in the Spirit, we see the power of God in our lives. Christ gets the glory for the results, and we receive God’s glory for allowing it to happen. In I Thessalonians four and 5, Paul spent a fair amount of time dealing with the return of Christ. It is a sure thing, but as he stressed, God has not told us when his return will be. Our job is to serve the Lord until it happens. Unfortunately, there are some who are teaching about the second coming in a manner that focuses attention on it rather than day to day obedience. He wants to warn them of this danger,
“Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.” (II Thessalonians 2:1-2)
Hundreds of books have been written and thousands of conferences held dealing with the second coming. Many of them have been designed to whip people into a frenzy of soul winning and church attendance. People have been desperate to be doing the thing they should when the Lord comes. Paul instructs not to let ourselves be shaken in such a manner, regardless of how authoritative the claims may appear. While it appears to many to serve a useful purpose, it distracts from the most important.
Remember the story in Luke 10:38-42? Jesus came Bethany, and was invited into Martha’s house. Martha got so caught up in making sure everything was just right, she became angry that her sister was not helping her. “And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her,” (Luke 10:41-42). I have seen people do this, so busy fixing nice meals and presents that they were unable to enjoy their visit.
One lady was so involved in making sure a meal was just right she never even sat down at the table to enjoy thanksgiving dinner. She spent all her time serving and making sure everything was just right. She was glad when the guests finally left. One of the guests later commented he didn’t really feel like they even had a visit with her. At another dinner, the meat was a little over done, and the potatoes weren’t quite done, but we had so much fun sitting around talking that nobody cared. There was genuine regret at having to leave. This last is the relationship Christ wants. Some teaching on the second coming makes us like Martha, really unable to enjoy the Lord’s presence, because we are busy trying to do for him.
In an effort to stimulate greater effort on the part of Christians, many have tried to set dates or periods when the second coming would happen. A focus was placed on various signs to prove when it would happen. The scribes and Pharisees wanted Jesus show them a sign. “But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth,” (Matthew 12:39-40).
Notice he said it was an evil and adulterous generation who demanded a sign. They have no commitment to Christ, but are like the girl who dates a boy just as long as he brings her things. He told them the only sign would be when Christ was crucified and resurrected. The sign would be the actual event. Paul tells the Thessalonians the same thing. The sign will be the beginning of the event itself.
“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.” (II Thessalonians 2:3-6)
The ever increasing levels of sin, and of natural disasters does not establish a time table. They just indicate that prophecy is true. Earthquakes, hurricanes, wars, even global warming are only evidence that God told the truth in his predictions. We need to draw close to him, trusting him to take care of it. Don't get distracted by prophecies about the second coming.
The Thessalonians had demonstrated strong spiritual life. Paul and his companions prayed that it would always be so. We cannot focus on what we have done, good or bad, nor can we dwell on what will happen tomorrow. We have the responsibility to live today. As they let Christ have control day by day, he would produce the results he wanted.
“Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Thessalonians 1:11-12)
When we walk in the Spirit, we see the power of God in our lives. Christ gets the glory for the results, and we receive God’s glory for allowing it to happen. In I Thessalonians four and 5, Paul spent a fair amount of time dealing with the return of Christ. It is a sure thing, but as he stressed, God has not told us when his return will be. Our job is to serve the Lord until it happens. Unfortunately, there are some who are teaching about the second coming in a manner that focuses attention on it rather than day to day obedience. He wants to warn them of this danger,
“Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.” (II Thessalonians 2:1-2)
Hundreds of books have been written and thousands of conferences held dealing with the second coming. Many of them have been designed to whip people into a frenzy of soul winning and church attendance. People have been desperate to be doing the thing they should when the Lord comes. Paul instructs not to let ourselves be shaken in such a manner, regardless of how authoritative the claims may appear. While it appears to many to serve a useful purpose, it distracts from the most important.
Remember the story in Luke 10:38-42? Jesus came Bethany, and was invited into Martha’s house. Martha got so caught up in making sure everything was just right, she became angry that her sister was not helping her. “And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her,” (Luke 10:41-42). I have seen people do this, so busy fixing nice meals and presents that they were unable to enjoy their visit.
One lady was so involved in making sure a meal was just right she never even sat down at the table to enjoy thanksgiving dinner. She spent all her time serving and making sure everything was just right. She was glad when the guests finally left. One of the guests later commented he didn’t really feel like they even had a visit with her. At another dinner, the meat was a little over done, and the potatoes weren’t quite done, but we had so much fun sitting around talking that nobody cared. There was genuine regret at having to leave. This last is the relationship Christ wants. Some teaching on the second coming makes us like Martha, really unable to enjoy the Lord’s presence, because we are busy trying to do for him.
In an effort to stimulate greater effort on the part of Christians, many have tried to set dates or periods when the second coming would happen. A focus was placed on various signs to prove when it would happen. The scribes and Pharisees wanted Jesus show them a sign. “But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth,” (Matthew 12:39-40).
Notice he said it was an evil and adulterous generation who demanded a sign. They have no commitment to Christ, but are like the girl who dates a boy just as long as he brings her things. He told them the only sign would be when Christ was crucified and resurrected. The sign would be the actual event. Paul tells the Thessalonians the same thing. The sign will be the beginning of the event itself.
“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.” (II Thessalonians 2:3-6)
The ever increasing levels of sin, and of natural disasters does not establish a time table. They just indicate that prophecy is true. Earthquakes, hurricanes, wars, even global warming are only evidence that God told the truth in his predictions. We need to draw close to him, trusting him to take care of it. Don't get distracted by prophecies about the second coming.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
A Testimony Of Love
II Thessalonians 1:1-10
Like most of his writings, Paul starts II Thessalonians by introducing himself and his companions. He then names the primary recipients, in this case the church of Thessalonians. This was a church that Paul and Silas had started on Paul’s second missionary journey, as described in Acts 17. Since the word translated church, “ecclesia”, means assembly, the book is addressed to the assembly of Thessalonians who are in God, and in Christ, the Thessalonian Christians who meet together.
“Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Thessalonians 1:1-2)
Grace is undeserved favor, a gift. He is hoping they will experience both grace or blessings and peace from God. Grace is most often used in referring to spiritual or emotional blessings, rather than material things, He goes on to describe himself as giving thanks for them because of what they see happening among the Christians. They are growing close to each other, concerned about each other to the point of physically sharing what they have to make sure each one has what they need. Like the Church in Jerusalem as described in Acts 2:45-47, and Acts 4:32.
That love of other Christians is the evidence that people are Christians according to John 13:34-35. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Love is a product of the Holy Spirit’s action in the Christian’s life, and some exhibit little. Paul rebuked the Corinthian church because of their lack of love in I Corinthians 3:3. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” Unlike the Thessalonians, they were not demonstrating evidence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
“We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:” (II Thessalonians 1:3-4)
The growth of the Thessalonians faith and love was demonstrated in the way they continued to love and obey even in persecution and trouble. Paul and his companions could rejoice and share their example in the other churches as a result. It was evidence that they actually had been saved and perfected forever as Hebrews 10:14 tells us. “For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.”
“Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;” (II Thessalonians 1:5-6)
It is right that God would punish those who mistreat those who are doing right. The faithfulness of the Thessalonians indicates they deserve his protection and blessings. They can depend on his acting on their behalf to do so when Christ comes as the reigning king.
“And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 2th 1:9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.” (II Thessalonians 1:7-10)
The judgment will be tremendous for those who refuse to receive Christ. It is described as a fire where the worm dieth not, literally the person remains at the point of death, but doesn’t die, and it is eternal. Perhaps the best example is of a person who has been so severely burned that they cannot be saved, but doesn’t die immediately, begging to die to end the pain. It is a sickening picture.
His supporters, on the other hand will be rejoicing, because they believed and accepted him, escaping the sorrow and suffering.
Like most of his writings, Paul starts II Thessalonians by introducing himself and his companions. He then names the primary recipients, in this case the church of Thessalonians. This was a church that Paul and Silas had started on Paul’s second missionary journey, as described in Acts 17. Since the word translated church, “ecclesia”, means assembly, the book is addressed to the assembly of Thessalonians who are in God, and in Christ, the Thessalonian Christians who meet together.
“Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Thessalonians 1:1-2)
Grace is undeserved favor, a gift. He is hoping they will experience both grace or blessings and peace from God. Grace is most often used in referring to spiritual or emotional blessings, rather than material things, He goes on to describe himself as giving thanks for them because of what they see happening among the Christians. They are growing close to each other, concerned about each other to the point of physically sharing what they have to make sure each one has what they need. Like the Church in Jerusalem as described in Acts 2:45-47, and Acts 4:32.
That love of other Christians is the evidence that people are Christians according to John 13:34-35. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Love is a product of the Holy Spirit’s action in the Christian’s life, and some exhibit little. Paul rebuked the Corinthian church because of their lack of love in I Corinthians 3:3. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” Unlike the Thessalonians, they were not demonstrating evidence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
“We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:” (II Thessalonians 1:3-4)
The growth of the Thessalonians faith and love was demonstrated in the way they continued to love and obey even in persecution and trouble. Paul and his companions could rejoice and share their example in the other churches as a result. It was evidence that they actually had been saved and perfected forever as Hebrews 10:14 tells us. “For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.”
“Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;” (II Thessalonians 1:5-6)
It is right that God would punish those who mistreat those who are doing right. The faithfulness of the Thessalonians indicates they deserve his protection and blessings. They can depend on his acting on their behalf to do so when Christ comes as the reigning king.
“And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 2th 1:9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.” (II Thessalonians 1:7-10)
The judgment will be tremendous for those who refuse to receive Christ. It is described as a fire where the worm dieth not, literally the person remains at the point of death, but doesn’t die, and it is eternal. Perhaps the best example is of a person who has been so severely burned that they cannot be saved, but doesn’t die immediately, begging to die to end the pain. It is a sickening picture.
His supporters, on the other hand will be rejoicing, because they believed and accepted him, escaping the sorrow and suffering.
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