II Timothy 4:16-22
A husband or wife who threatens to leave their mate in an effort to get their way often doesn’t understand that to their mate they are saying they are not committed to the marriage. The mate now has to decide, not just whether to do what is wanted, but also to guess whether the relationship will last long enough to recoup his investment. While it might be worth while to invest in a new couch for the long haul, it is hardly worth while if the marriage might end next week. The threat of divorce may stop the mate from doing the very thing it was intended to cause.
People make decisions based on the information they have and past experience and training. People place their faith in the information being accurate and their experiences are correctly interpreted. That some of the information may be incomplete or experiences may be misunderstood is likely. It is difficult to commit to a position or action without sufficient information, or if the information is unconfirmed. Most people have experienced times when the information was faulty, making trust difficult. As a result it is difficult to predict what people will do.
When Paul first received Christ, even the other apostles were afraid to trust him. Their prior experience indicated that he was likely to kill them. Barnabas was the only one willing to take a chance on his being a Christian in Acts 9:27-28. People who did not know the Lord as well as Paul did had the same reaction in every city he preached in. They acted by faith, but their information was flawed, resulting in misplaced faith. They accepted human logic in place of God’s promise.
“At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (II Timothy 4:16-18)
God doesn’t depend on man for his power. Our belief or unbelief does not affect his power or his promises. II Timothy 2:13 states, “If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” While everyone else deserted him. God did just what he had promised, causing his message to be heard in city after city, and protecting him even from being killed by a lion in the arena. Only God could have received the credit because others refused to get involved. His experiences encourage Paul to believe that he can trust God in every other situation as well. Paul hopes the others will be emboldened by what they have seen God do for him.
Paul now concludes by sharing the greetings of others to Timothy and asking him to share those greetings with others. That love and concern doesn’t end because of a separation.
“Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick. Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren. The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.” (II Timothy 4:19-22)
Showing posts with label II Timothy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label II Timothy. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Finishing the Job
II Timothy 4:6
Over the years, I have had the pleasure of building a number of machine tools. Each one requires a great deal of effort, and many times there are details that require a concentration to design a critical part. Producing the design is often a daunting task. When something doesn’t work as planned, it is very discouraging. The only way one finishes the project is by focusing on the benefits of success. There are few feelings so gratifying as using the tool you have built, especially when it allows you to do something previously impossible.
Many times Paul had had discouragements and conflicts. II Corinthians 11:24-28 describes some of the things he had experienced. “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.”
Paul is thrilled to have completed his project. He has finished the job he set out to do. He overcame all the discouragements and difficulty, and now he is ready to receive the benefits of what he has done. It will no longer be necessary to continue working so hard under such discouragement. He can now allow Timothy and others to take over the next stage of building the church.
“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” (II Timothy 4:6-8)”
The same rewards are available to Timothy and everyone else who loves the future return of Christ. John 14:23-24 is very explicit that obedience is the result and evidence of our love. “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.”
Paul now continues to share news about himself and his companions, especially requesting that Timothy come as soon as possible.
“Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.” (II Timothy 4:9-12”
Two things especially stand out in this passage. First, Demas, mentioned as a fellow servant in Colossians 4:14 and Philippians 1:24, after years of serving God, has turned to the things of the world. Men of God can get distracted by other things and stop serving God.
Secondly, Paul asks Timothy to bring Mark, because he is profitable for the ministry. It is a complete reversal of his position in Acts 15, when he had so opposed taking Mark with them because he had dropped out on their previous trip. Barnabas had taken him, and worked with him, with the result that Paul now sees him as a valuable member of the team. Scripture teaches us to avoid about judging others. Barnabas’ decision not only resulted in Mark becoming an asset to the spread of the gospel, but in the Gospel of Mark.
Paul requests that Timothy bring some things he’d left behind, such as his cloak. He is especially desirous that Timothy bring his books . It is probable that the parchments mentioned were copies of Old Testament books. While Paul, as an educated man, probably had many other writings, especially relating to Jewish history and doctrine, he was especially concerned that he had access to scripture. There is nothing to indicate that these were Paul’s writings, and those who had been called to the ministry needed the scriptures to learn from.
“The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.” (II Timothy 4:13)
Paul also reminds of Alexander’s opposition. It is probable that his attitude will not have changed, and that he will cause similar problems for Timothy as well.
“Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.” ( II Timothy 4:14-15)”
God can be trusted to deal with sin, it is not necessary for Timothy to. Romans 12:19 commands, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
Over the years, I have had the pleasure of building a number of machine tools. Each one requires a great deal of effort, and many times there are details that require a concentration to design a critical part. Producing the design is often a daunting task. When something doesn’t work as planned, it is very discouraging. The only way one finishes the project is by focusing on the benefits of success. There are few feelings so gratifying as using the tool you have built, especially when it allows you to do something previously impossible.
Many times Paul had had discouragements and conflicts. II Corinthians 11:24-28 describes some of the things he had experienced. “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.”
Paul is thrilled to have completed his project. He has finished the job he set out to do. He overcame all the discouragements and difficulty, and now he is ready to receive the benefits of what he has done. It will no longer be necessary to continue working so hard under such discouragement. He can now allow Timothy and others to take over the next stage of building the church.
“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” (II Timothy 4:6-8)”
The same rewards are available to Timothy and everyone else who loves the future return of Christ. John 14:23-24 is very explicit that obedience is the result and evidence of our love. “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.”
Paul now continues to share news about himself and his companions, especially requesting that Timothy come as soon as possible.
“Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.” (II Timothy 4:9-12”
Two things especially stand out in this passage. First, Demas, mentioned as a fellow servant in Colossians 4:14 and Philippians 1:24, after years of serving God, has turned to the things of the world. Men of God can get distracted by other things and stop serving God.
Secondly, Paul asks Timothy to bring Mark, because he is profitable for the ministry. It is a complete reversal of his position in Acts 15, when he had so opposed taking Mark with them because he had dropped out on their previous trip. Barnabas had taken him, and worked with him, with the result that Paul now sees him as a valuable member of the team. Scripture teaches us to avoid about judging others. Barnabas’ decision not only resulted in Mark becoming an asset to the spread of the gospel, but in the Gospel of Mark.
Paul requests that Timothy bring some things he’d left behind, such as his cloak. He is especially desirous that Timothy bring his books . It is probable that the parchments mentioned were copies of Old Testament books. While Paul, as an educated man, probably had many other writings, especially relating to Jewish history and doctrine, he was especially concerned that he had access to scripture. There is nothing to indicate that these were Paul’s writings, and those who had been called to the ministry needed the scriptures to learn from.
“The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.” (II Timothy 4:13)
Paul also reminds of Alexander’s opposition. It is probable that his attitude will not have changed, and that he will cause similar problems for Timothy as well.
“Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.” ( II Timothy 4:14-15)”
God can be trusted to deal with sin, it is not necessary for Timothy to. Romans 12:19 commands, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
Monday, February 8, 2010
Preach The Word
II Timothy 4:1-5
Having a love for making things, I also developed a love for tools, like many other guys. Not having much money, I became interested in old and obsolete ways of doing things before power tools were available. Over the years I learned to build many of my own tools, and was interested to learn that most modern power tools use a modified form of the same processes the hand tools use.
The action may appear different, the principle is the same.
There is little more gratifying than building a tool that can be used to accomplish some other job. I became interested in machine tools such as metal lathes and milling machines. I obtained plans and information on hand scraping and began to build a metal lathe. The first one was not very accurate, but it was obvious the task was possible, and I built others. I now have a good lathe I built, capable of accuracy to a thousandth of an inch over the length of an eighteen inch shaft.
I surprised to learn that while the hand techniques I learned are considered obsolete by most machinists, they are used in the most exacting work to finish what is done by the best modern tools, being capable of producing accuracy to a millionth of an inch or better. No modern machine is capable of producing such accuracy.
Because modern methods are faster and easier, the tendency has been to settle for less accurate work, resulting in tools and machinery that is less capable of precision production. Labs and other precision builders often have to build their own tools because those manufactured by commercial processes are not adequate for their requirements.
The same tendency to choose the easier or faster metnod is often found in churches. It has resulted in Christians who are less solidly grounded in the faith and less able to function in a manner pleasing to God. While they may appear nearly as good initially, when it comes to day by day service, their lack of sound preparation begins to show. For example, the current rate of divorce among Christians indicates a lack of proper teaching in the churches. It is much easier to read a book about marriage than it is to find and study more than one thousand verses that contribute to what the Bible teaches about the subject.
Paul has spent considerable effort instructing Timothy to study the Scripture, stating that it provides everything the Christian needs to be pleasing to God. Now he stresses the importance of teaching the same thing to those who hear them. The word he uses ‘preach’, means ‘to herald.’ A herald was an official messenger. He was responsible for delivering the message accurately. Since an inaccurate rendering could in some cases result in death, he could be executed if he was found guilty of changing the message by so much as a single word. The preacher has that same responsibility before God.
“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” (II Timothy 4:1-2)
Both the preacher, and his hearers will stand before God for judgment. They cannot please God if they do not know exactly what he wants. He is to preach God’s word when it is popular and when it is unpopular, when it suits everybody, and when it contradicts accepted beliefs. It is a responsibility to show people what is wrong. When they knowingly do wrong, it may be necessary to scold sharply, while other times only encouragement is needed. As time passes, there will come a time when most people will begin to seek churches and preachers that make them feel good about what they are doing, rather than those who make them aware of their short comings. Traditions, rituals, and entertainment will take precedence over the truth of God’s word.
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” (II Timothy 4:3-4)
The preacher must not allow himself to be caught up in the trends and fashions of the day. God’s requirements have not changed. Seemingly obsolete teaching may be required to enable people to do what is required. We must not neglect any area of ministry.
“But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” (II Timothy 4:5)
The pastor must be willing to maintain his own spiritual and moral standards, even when it produces hardship for himself. He must also reach out to the unsaved with the gospel. He cannot leave evangelism to professionals. It is part of his job. He is responsible for the whole job.
Matthew 28:19-20 describes the job. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations(disciple, cause to become Christians), baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost(get them to be baptized): Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you(teach them everything God has said): and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world(we will have his power and guidance to do what he wants). Amen. Until all three parts are done, the job is not finished.
My Brother-in law is a pipeline welder. His first day, he was embarrassed at how much slower he was than the other welders. He fell far behind. That night the testing crew x-rayed all the welds done that day. The next morning, he was the only welder who did not have to go back and repair any of his welds. Some of the welders were fired because their welds were unsatisfactory. Taking the time to do the job satisfactorily paid tremendous dividends, including a permanent position with the company. My brother-in-law had made full proof of his workmanship.
The ministry is to be approached the same way. As I Corinthians 3:13 warns, “Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.”
Having a love for making things, I also developed a love for tools, like many other guys. Not having much money, I became interested in old and obsolete ways of doing things before power tools were available. Over the years I learned to build many of my own tools, and was interested to learn that most modern power tools use a modified form of the same processes the hand tools use.
The action may appear different, the principle is the same.
There is little more gratifying than building a tool that can be used to accomplish some other job. I became interested in machine tools such as metal lathes and milling machines. I obtained plans and information on hand scraping and began to build a metal lathe. The first one was not very accurate, but it was obvious the task was possible, and I built others. I now have a good lathe I built, capable of accuracy to a thousandth of an inch over the length of an eighteen inch shaft.
I surprised to learn that while the hand techniques I learned are considered obsolete by most machinists, they are used in the most exacting work to finish what is done by the best modern tools, being capable of producing accuracy to a millionth of an inch or better. No modern machine is capable of producing such accuracy.
Because modern methods are faster and easier, the tendency has been to settle for less accurate work, resulting in tools and machinery that is less capable of precision production. Labs and other precision builders often have to build their own tools because those manufactured by commercial processes are not adequate for their requirements.
The same tendency to choose the easier or faster metnod is often found in churches. It has resulted in Christians who are less solidly grounded in the faith and less able to function in a manner pleasing to God. While they may appear nearly as good initially, when it comes to day by day service, their lack of sound preparation begins to show. For example, the current rate of divorce among Christians indicates a lack of proper teaching in the churches. It is much easier to read a book about marriage than it is to find and study more than one thousand verses that contribute to what the Bible teaches about the subject.
Paul has spent considerable effort instructing Timothy to study the Scripture, stating that it provides everything the Christian needs to be pleasing to God. Now he stresses the importance of teaching the same thing to those who hear them. The word he uses ‘preach’, means ‘to herald.’ A herald was an official messenger. He was responsible for delivering the message accurately. Since an inaccurate rendering could in some cases result in death, he could be executed if he was found guilty of changing the message by so much as a single word. The preacher has that same responsibility before God.
“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” (II Timothy 4:1-2)
Both the preacher, and his hearers will stand before God for judgment. They cannot please God if they do not know exactly what he wants. He is to preach God’s word when it is popular and when it is unpopular, when it suits everybody, and when it contradicts accepted beliefs. It is a responsibility to show people what is wrong. When they knowingly do wrong, it may be necessary to scold sharply, while other times only encouragement is needed. As time passes, there will come a time when most people will begin to seek churches and preachers that make them feel good about what they are doing, rather than those who make them aware of their short comings. Traditions, rituals, and entertainment will take precedence over the truth of God’s word.
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” (II Timothy 4:3-4)
The preacher must not allow himself to be caught up in the trends and fashions of the day. God’s requirements have not changed. Seemingly obsolete teaching may be required to enable people to do what is required. We must not neglect any area of ministry.
“But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” (II Timothy 4:5)
The pastor must be willing to maintain his own spiritual and moral standards, even when it produces hardship for himself. He must also reach out to the unsaved with the gospel. He cannot leave evangelism to professionals. It is part of his job. He is responsible for the whole job.
Matthew 28:19-20 describes the job. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations(disciple, cause to become Christians), baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost(get them to be baptized): Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you(teach them everything God has said): and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world(we will have his power and guidance to do what he wants). Amen. Until all three parts are done, the job is not finished.
My Brother-in law is a pipeline welder. His first day, he was embarrassed at how much slower he was than the other welders. He fell far behind. That night the testing crew x-rayed all the welds done that day. The next morning, he was the only welder who did not have to go back and repair any of his welds. Some of the welders were fired because their welds were unsatisfactory. Taking the time to do the job satisfactorily paid tremendous dividends, including a permanent position with the company. My brother-in-law had made full proof of his workmanship.
The ministry is to be approached the same way. As I Corinthians 3:13 warns, “Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.”
Friday, February 5, 2010
Don’t Change Anything
II Timothy 3:14-17
A few years before the depression, my grand father had finally managed to buy a farm in Oklahoma. As his profits had grown, he borrowed money to purchase a herd of registered Milking Shorthorn cattle. When the Depression started, the cattle’s resale value dropped by over 90% and the bank foreclosed, claiming the loan was no longer secured. To make up the difference, they also seized the farm, leaving the family homeless.
For the next several years, they moved from place to place in New Mexico, southern Colorado and Oklahoma in a covered wagon, trading horses and sharecropping in various places. Unfortunately, the dustbowl started about three years after the Depression began, eliminating these opportunities and forcing them back on the road. Their final return to southern Colorado ended when Dad enlisted in the army during World War II. During the time they traveled, they had lived in houses, sheep folds, and their wagon.
My mom’s family were even worse off. At one point they moved to Missouri to live with relatives and work. The low elevation caused Granddad problems and doctors told him he’d die if he stayed in that area. They moved to La Veta, Colorado, where Grandma discovered she could not live in the higher elevation. They moved back to Campo and toughed it out but it was really tough. For several years they lived in a converted shed about ten foot by twelve foot. Finally they moved into what they called the big house. It was twelve feet by sixteen feet.
My parents have been blessed to have running water, indoor plumbing, cars, electricity and central heating. Their Grand kids live in houses with rooms larger than my grandparents house. Some of the grandkids earn more in a week than my grandparents earned annually, and none have ever been hungry.
Today, it looks like we are poised on the brink of another depression. What conditions will be like if it occurs is unforeseeable, but there are surely going to be changes. Such changes are an inherent part of life. Adapting to those changes is an ongoing challenge.
Fortunately, God does not change. MalachI 3:6 states, “For I am the LORD, I change not;” James 1: 1: 16 makes it clear there is not even an appearance of change. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
As a result there have been no changes in what God requires. God’s word has not changed, regardless how much earthly conditions may change. Paul warns Timothy of the danger of following new trends and ideas.
“But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” (II Timothy 3:14-17)
The scripture provides every thing required for salvation. It was given by God and is designed to supply complete instruction for identifying what is wrong, teaching us to fix problems, and teaching us how to do what is right. No other writings or teachings are needed to do any activity to please God. Just continuing to do the same God instructed will be the best you can do.
A few years before the depression, my grand father had finally managed to buy a farm in Oklahoma. As his profits had grown, he borrowed money to purchase a herd of registered Milking Shorthorn cattle. When the Depression started, the cattle’s resale value dropped by over 90% and the bank foreclosed, claiming the loan was no longer secured. To make up the difference, they also seized the farm, leaving the family homeless.
For the next several years, they moved from place to place in New Mexico, southern Colorado and Oklahoma in a covered wagon, trading horses and sharecropping in various places. Unfortunately, the dustbowl started about three years after the Depression began, eliminating these opportunities and forcing them back on the road. Their final return to southern Colorado ended when Dad enlisted in the army during World War II. During the time they traveled, they had lived in houses, sheep folds, and their wagon.
My mom’s family were even worse off. At one point they moved to Missouri to live with relatives and work. The low elevation caused Granddad problems and doctors told him he’d die if he stayed in that area. They moved to La Veta, Colorado, where Grandma discovered she could not live in the higher elevation. They moved back to Campo and toughed it out but it was really tough. For several years they lived in a converted shed about ten foot by twelve foot. Finally they moved into what they called the big house. It was twelve feet by sixteen feet.
My parents have been blessed to have running water, indoor plumbing, cars, electricity and central heating. Their Grand kids live in houses with rooms larger than my grandparents house. Some of the grandkids earn more in a week than my grandparents earned annually, and none have ever been hungry.
Today, it looks like we are poised on the brink of another depression. What conditions will be like if it occurs is unforeseeable, but there are surely going to be changes. Such changes are an inherent part of life. Adapting to those changes is an ongoing challenge.
Fortunately, God does not change. MalachI 3:6 states, “For I am the LORD, I change not;” James 1: 1: 16 makes it clear there is not even an appearance of change. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
As a result there have been no changes in what God requires. God’s word has not changed, regardless how much earthly conditions may change. Paul warns Timothy of the danger of following new trends and ideas.
“But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” (II Timothy 3:14-17)
The scripture provides every thing required for salvation. It was given by God and is designed to supply complete instruction for identifying what is wrong, teaching us to fix problems, and teaching us how to do what is right. No other writings or teachings are needed to do any activity to please God. Just continuing to do the same God instructed will be the best you can do.
What Do You See In A Person’s Life?
II Timothy 3:10-13
Mentoring is one of the most effective ways of teaching. A person works with another, showing how to do a particular thing in a real life situation, not just a theoretical lecture or even a contrived model, although these may be used to demonstrate basic steps. By setting an example in varied situations, the person being mentored learns how to resolve issues other than the basics. Some times, before the basic solution can succeed, preparations or adjustments are needed.
Several years ago, a young man studying psychology was told that he would be unable to help drug addicts until he had experienced what they experienced. He tried the drugs himself and became addicted. When he finally kicked the addiction, he completed his training and became a counselor. He found that you could not help others if you were living with the same problem. A person who had never experienced it might not understand the problem, but one who has not gotten victory has little to offer as to how to escape. One reason so many drug and alcohol treatments fail is that that counselors have not resolved their own problems.
Timothy had worked alongside Paul, seeing his attitudes and responses in many situations. He also observed the results of those actions. Paul reminds him of those things as a way of preparing him for what will surely come.
“But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.”(II Timothy 3:10-11)
Paul has set an example to be followed in his teaching. His lifestyle has modeled what Timothy needs to do. The intentions of Paul’s ministry have been clear. He has demonstrated faith, and a lack of complaint in light of his problems. The struggles have not made him hard or bitter, and he has demonstrated love and acceptance when others did not respond in a proper or fitting manner. This has been true in the face of both persecution by others, and in physical deprivation and sickness, not just once, but in place after place. As a result, Timothy has seen that it was God that produced the results.
Paul then delivers one of those promises most would rather forget. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution,” (II Timothy 3:12). Everyone who tries to serve God will be persecuted. Peter warns that we should not be surprised by such trouble. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (I Peter 4:12-13)
Some teachers today would have us believe that a walk with God will eliminate all the problems. They have ignored the scriptures. Instead of being upset, we should be rejoicing that the problems enable us to share in what Christ did for us, and to see his power in our daily lives. Jesus himself spoke of this in John 16:33. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” We can depend on him to take care of these things.
Paul also gives another promise we sometimes wish wasn’t true. “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived,” (II Timothy 3:13). Peter warns that the false teachers will not all be in other groups. “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.” (II Peter 2:1)
Not only has Paul set an example for Timothy, but he has demonstrated his relationship with God as being a man living and walking in the Spirit. Jesus stressed that these fruit would identify those who were really serving God.
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:15-21)
To avoid being taken in by the false teachers, we will need to examine their lives for the fruit that is produced. Many kinds of trees look similar, but some are poisonous. False teachers resemble the true prophets, but they endanger those who follow their teachings. Just listening their statements or looking at the outward appearances or actions is not enough. The Holy Spirit affects the attitude as well. The attitude will then affect everything they do.
Mentoring is one of the most effective ways of teaching. A person works with another, showing how to do a particular thing in a real life situation, not just a theoretical lecture or even a contrived model, although these may be used to demonstrate basic steps. By setting an example in varied situations, the person being mentored learns how to resolve issues other than the basics. Some times, before the basic solution can succeed, preparations or adjustments are needed.
Several years ago, a young man studying psychology was told that he would be unable to help drug addicts until he had experienced what they experienced. He tried the drugs himself and became addicted. When he finally kicked the addiction, he completed his training and became a counselor. He found that you could not help others if you were living with the same problem. A person who had never experienced it might not understand the problem, but one who has not gotten victory has little to offer as to how to escape. One reason so many drug and alcohol treatments fail is that that counselors have not resolved their own problems.
Timothy had worked alongside Paul, seeing his attitudes and responses in many situations. He also observed the results of those actions. Paul reminds him of those things as a way of preparing him for what will surely come.
“But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.”(II Timothy 3:10-11)
Paul has set an example to be followed in his teaching. His lifestyle has modeled what Timothy needs to do. The intentions of Paul’s ministry have been clear. He has demonstrated faith, and a lack of complaint in light of his problems. The struggles have not made him hard or bitter, and he has demonstrated love and acceptance when others did not respond in a proper or fitting manner. This has been true in the face of both persecution by others, and in physical deprivation and sickness, not just once, but in place after place. As a result, Timothy has seen that it was God that produced the results.
Paul then delivers one of those promises most would rather forget. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution,” (II Timothy 3:12). Everyone who tries to serve God will be persecuted. Peter warns that we should not be surprised by such trouble. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (I Peter 4:12-13)
Some teachers today would have us believe that a walk with God will eliminate all the problems. They have ignored the scriptures. Instead of being upset, we should be rejoicing that the problems enable us to share in what Christ did for us, and to see his power in our daily lives. Jesus himself spoke of this in John 16:33. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” We can depend on him to take care of these things.
Paul also gives another promise we sometimes wish wasn’t true. “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived,” (II Timothy 3:13). Peter warns that the false teachers will not all be in other groups. “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.” (II Peter 2:1)
Not only has Paul set an example for Timothy, but he has demonstrated his relationship with God as being a man living and walking in the Spirit. Jesus stressed that these fruit would identify those who were really serving God.
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:15-21)
To avoid being taken in by the false teachers, we will need to examine their lives for the fruit that is produced. Many kinds of trees look similar, but some are poisonous. False teachers resemble the true prophets, but they endanger those who follow their teachings. Just listening their statements or looking at the outward appearances or actions is not enough. The Holy Spirit affects the attitude as well. The attitude will then affect everything they do.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Attitude Of The Day
II Timothy 3:1-9
In the little town where I grew up, the Catholic nun was murdered by a teenager looking for money to buy drugs. A man murdered his daughter when her mother filed for divorce. High school football players raped and sodomized younger players. Both male and female teachers were arrested for sexual relations with junior high students. A waitress in a restaurant was murdered by an unknown customer. Two jail guards were arrested for providing weapons to inmates. Police officers leak information to drug traffickers to enable them to escape prosecution.
These are just some of the recent news from around our state. The lawless and self serving attitude is visible in every area of our culture. Politicians like Nancy Pelosi state that they will pass laws no matter what the people want. Lawyers and judges are found guilty of serious crimes. Bankers from Goldman Sachs fraudulently obtain bailouts. Other bankers deliberately increase fees when credit reform laws are passed to take as much as possible from their clients before the laws go into effect.
Financial investment firms defraud millions of investors of billions of dollars. Political figures take bribes and payoffs and betray their families. People knowingly take loans with no ability or intention of paying them back. Public employees embezzle millions from government accounts. Doctors and hospitals inflate charges to medicare and individuals. Movie actors shoplift and commit murder. Music lyrics encourage murder, racism, sexual perversion, rape and abuse. Reality shows portray sexual behavior, deceit and betrayal as desirable qualities. The good cops are criminal in most movies, they just kill ‘bad’ guys instead of everyone.
Half the children live in broken homes with no father figure to set an example. The media reports mostly murders, robberies, and violent criminal activity. Children placed in daycare when only a few months old, and schools and psychologists tell us there is no moral standard. Video games train people to plan crimes and provide practice killings. Even churches and religious organizations are so involved in political activism and fund raising they no longer teach moral standards. Is it any wonder that our society is in such a mess? God warned that it would become like this, even in the churches.
“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” (II Timothy 3:1-5)
As Paul describes, even so called ‘Christians’ are self absorbed and self indulgent, greedy to get what they want. They claim credit for meaningless accomplishments and for what others have done. People are proud of things that ought to be shameful. Vile language, verbal abuse and innuendo are used to embarrass and discredit others.
Children have little or no respect for their parents, even abusing or killing them for telling them they can’t do something. There is little satisfaction with what people have, only bitterness that it is not more. There is no concern for whether something is right, but only whether it is expedient. Even the natural affection toward children and the opposite sex has been perverted, as in child molestation, homosexuality and promiscuity.
Even signed contracts provide no security. Lawyers make a business of finding ways to escape responsibilities. Unsubstantiated accusations and character assassination are considered normal. There is a lack of self control, whether of anger, sexual desires, eating, drug use, or alcohol. Fear is equated with respect, and meaningless violence maintains it. There is little loyalty to anything but self. Serious thought and planning have been replaced with illogical assumptions and ill considered actions, with total rejection of any other opinion as having merit.
Entertainment and pleasure has superseded any claims of God, as for example, churches canceling services on Superbowl Sunday, or people select a church on the basis of more exciting music or youth activities. While many profess to be Christians, there is little or no concern as to what God has actually said, even in supposedly strong churches.
We are to avoid so called Christians with such attitudes because they are dangerous to our own spiritual standing and that of others. I Corinthians 5:11-13 is very specific about the Christian’s responsibility in such cases. “But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.”
People with these attitudes take advantage of ignorance, and emotional and moral instability to gain control of others, promising superior knowledge and understanding, which they themselves lack.
“For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.” (II Timothy 3:6-9)
Like the magicians in Egypt, they provide no solutions, just delivering more of the same thing. Eventually people catch on that while their actions appear impressive. They actively oppose those who try to stand for the truth, trying to turn others to their ways. Titus 1:16 describes the situation. “They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.”
Eventually, it becomes obvious that there is nothing of value being offered and people turn away. It is impossible to deceive all the people forever. Close association implies we are part of the same lie.
In the little town where I grew up, the Catholic nun was murdered by a teenager looking for money to buy drugs. A man murdered his daughter when her mother filed for divorce. High school football players raped and sodomized younger players. Both male and female teachers were arrested for sexual relations with junior high students. A waitress in a restaurant was murdered by an unknown customer. Two jail guards were arrested for providing weapons to inmates. Police officers leak information to drug traffickers to enable them to escape prosecution.
These are just some of the recent news from around our state. The lawless and self serving attitude is visible in every area of our culture. Politicians like Nancy Pelosi state that they will pass laws no matter what the people want. Lawyers and judges are found guilty of serious crimes. Bankers from Goldman Sachs fraudulently obtain bailouts. Other bankers deliberately increase fees when credit reform laws are passed to take as much as possible from their clients before the laws go into effect.
Financial investment firms defraud millions of investors of billions of dollars. Political figures take bribes and payoffs and betray their families. People knowingly take loans with no ability or intention of paying them back. Public employees embezzle millions from government accounts. Doctors and hospitals inflate charges to medicare and individuals. Movie actors shoplift and commit murder. Music lyrics encourage murder, racism, sexual perversion, rape and abuse. Reality shows portray sexual behavior, deceit and betrayal as desirable qualities. The good cops are criminal in most movies, they just kill ‘bad’ guys instead of everyone.
Half the children live in broken homes with no father figure to set an example. The media reports mostly murders, robberies, and violent criminal activity. Children placed in daycare when only a few months old, and schools and psychologists tell us there is no moral standard. Video games train people to plan crimes and provide practice killings. Even churches and religious organizations are so involved in political activism and fund raising they no longer teach moral standards. Is it any wonder that our society is in such a mess? God warned that it would become like this, even in the churches.
“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” (II Timothy 3:1-5)
As Paul describes, even so called ‘Christians’ are self absorbed and self indulgent, greedy to get what they want. They claim credit for meaningless accomplishments and for what others have done. People are proud of things that ought to be shameful. Vile language, verbal abuse and innuendo are used to embarrass and discredit others.
Children have little or no respect for their parents, even abusing or killing them for telling them they can’t do something. There is little satisfaction with what people have, only bitterness that it is not more. There is no concern for whether something is right, but only whether it is expedient. Even the natural affection toward children and the opposite sex has been perverted, as in child molestation, homosexuality and promiscuity.
Even signed contracts provide no security. Lawyers make a business of finding ways to escape responsibilities. Unsubstantiated accusations and character assassination are considered normal. There is a lack of self control, whether of anger, sexual desires, eating, drug use, or alcohol. Fear is equated with respect, and meaningless violence maintains it. There is little loyalty to anything but self. Serious thought and planning have been replaced with illogical assumptions and ill considered actions, with total rejection of any other opinion as having merit.
Entertainment and pleasure has superseded any claims of God, as for example, churches canceling services on Superbowl Sunday, or people select a church on the basis of more exciting music or youth activities. While many profess to be Christians, there is little or no concern as to what God has actually said, even in supposedly strong churches.
We are to avoid so called Christians with such attitudes because they are dangerous to our own spiritual standing and that of others. I Corinthians 5:11-13 is very specific about the Christian’s responsibility in such cases. “But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.”
People with these attitudes take advantage of ignorance, and emotional and moral instability to gain control of others, promising superior knowledge and understanding, which they themselves lack.
“For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.” (II Timothy 3:6-9)
Like the magicians in Egypt, they provide no solutions, just delivering more of the same thing. Eventually people catch on that while their actions appear impressive. They actively oppose those who try to stand for the truth, trying to turn others to their ways. Titus 1:16 describes the situation. “They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.”
Eventually, it becomes obvious that there is nothing of value being offered and people turn away. It is impossible to deceive all the people forever. Close association implies we are part of the same lie.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Protecting Others from Themselves
II Timothy 2:22-26
How often have you heard that the only foolish question is the one that doesn’t get asked? Unfortunately, that is not true. Several years ago, I had been teaching from I Timothy 2, and in verse 9 mentioned the fact that modesty is the Biblical standard. I mentioned that the modern interpretation of the world as not sexually revealing was not the original meaning. Older dictionaries define it as not calling attention to oneself. Strong’s defines the Greek word as ‘orderly’ and lists decorous as a synonym. It is translated as ‘of good behavior,’ or ‘modest.’
Using that definition, dressing in a manner to call attention to our religiousness is immodest, some what like the Scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23:5 were doing. “But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments.” The Catholic priest’s robe or the clerical collar, the Mennonite women’s head coverings, and a pastor wearing a suit when all the others are wearing jeans all call attention to us just as the girl in the revealing clothing does, and as James 2:1-4 points out, can become a point of sin. Our clothing ought not attract attention.
A young man asked if that meant that if you were witnessing on a nudist beach you should not wear any clothes either? Such a question falls in the category of unlearned and foolish questions, It ignores God’s command to “Abstain from all appearance of evil,“ in I Thessalonians 5:22. Just being there is likely to be seen by others as being voyeuristic. Being there also exposes one to the temptation to lust and as Jesus said, “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart,” in Matthew 5:28. I Corinthians 6:18 tells us to “Flee fornication,” not embrace it.
The question was not a sincere effort to learn truth but an attempt to justify his own position. Paul advises to avoid natural desires and focus on the things God wants to produce in our lives. Such foolish and unlearned questions are used by Satan to foment conflicts and strife. I Corinthians 3:1-3 points out that the strife is a result of an unspiritual attitude.
“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” (II Timothy 2:22-26)
To serve God, we must not get caught up in conflict. As Proverbs 13:10 states, “Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.” God hates pride, and as both James 4:6 and I Peter 5:5 state, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
As a small boy, one of the men who came to our church had lived near a large river, Fascinated by the flowing water, every time his mother put him into the yard, he would climb over the fence and go to the river. His mother tried tying him so he couldn’t reach the fence to keep him away from the river, but their dog chewed the rope in two. Spanking the boy had no effect, so one day his mother spanked the dog.
Never again did the boy get to the river. The dog would chew the rope loose, but when the boy started to climb the dog would get in his way and prevent him from climbing. He couldn’t get out of the yard. The dog gently stopped him every time.
This is exactly the concept Paul gives, in meekness or gentleness instructing those that oppose themselves. Just as the boy endangered his life by going to the river, there are some who endanger their spiritual life by choices they make. Our job is to try to prevent their getting into trouble, while not hurting or destroying them in the process. The goal is to help them become what God wants rather than falling into one of Satan’s traps. I Corinthians 5-11 give some specific guidelines as to how this can be accomplished in various situations. With God to advise us, there should be no problem.
How often have you heard that the only foolish question is the one that doesn’t get asked? Unfortunately, that is not true. Several years ago, I had been teaching from I Timothy 2, and in verse 9 mentioned the fact that modesty is the Biblical standard. I mentioned that the modern interpretation of the world as not sexually revealing was not the original meaning. Older dictionaries define it as not calling attention to oneself. Strong’s defines the Greek word as ‘orderly’ and lists decorous as a synonym. It is translated as ‘of good behavior,’ or ‘modest.’
Using that definition, dressing in a manner to call attention to our religiousness is immodest, some what like the Scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23:5 were doing. “But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments.” The Catholic priest’s robe or the clerical collar, the Mennonite women’s head coverings, and a pastor wearing a suit when all the others are wearing jeans all call attention to us just as the girl in the revealing clothing does, and as James 2:1-4 points out, can become a point of sin. Our clothing ought not attract attention.
A young man asked if that meant that if you were witnessing on a nudist beach you should not wear any clothes either? Such a question falls in the category of unlearned and foolish questions, It ignores God’s command to “Abstain from all appearance of evil,“ in I Thessalonians 5:22. Just being there is likely to be seen by others as being voyeuristic. Being there also exposes one to the temptation to lust and as Jesus said, “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart,” in Matthew 5:28. I Corinthians 6:18 tells us to “Flee fornication,” not embrace it.
The question was not a sincere effort to learn truth but an attempt to justify his own position. Paul advises to avoid natural desires and focus on the things God wants to produce in our lives. Such foolish and unlearned questions are used by Satan to foment conflicts and strife. I Corinthians 3:1-3 points out that the strife is a result of an unspiritual attitude.
“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” (II Timothy 2:22-26)
To serve God, we must not get caught up in conflict. As Proverbs 13:10 states, “Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.” God hates pride, and as both James 4:6 and I Peter 5:5 state, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
As a small boy, one of the men who came to our church had lived near a large river, Fascinated by the flowing water, every time his mother put him into the yard, he would climb over the fence and go to the river. His mother tried tying him so he couldn’t reach the fence to keep him away from the river, but their dog chewed the rope in two. Spanking the boy had no effect, so one day his mother spanked the dog.
Never again did the boy get to the river. The dog would chew the rope loose, but when the boy started to climb the dog would get in his way and prevent him from climbing. He couldn’t get out of the yard. The dog gently stopped him every time.
This is exactly the concept Paul gives, in meekness or gentleness instructing those that oppose themselves. Just as the boy endangered his life by going to the river, there are some who endanger their spiritual life by choices they make. Our job is to try to prevent their getting into trouble, while not hurting or destroying them in the process. The goal is to help them become what God wants rather than falling into one of Satan’s traps. I Corinthians 5-11 give some specific guidelines as to how this can be accomplished in various situations. With God to advise us, there should be no problem.
Ready For The Master’s Use
II Timothy 2:20-22
In my home are a large number of containers. There are some plastic trash cans, a mop bucket, canisters, nice dishes, and various baskets and pieces of pottery. Each one serves certain purposes. All of them including the trash can need cleaning from time to time to make them fit to use. Most people would refuse to eat from dirty dishes, and a dirty trash can may stink up the whole house. Washing them out makes them useable again.
There are a great many people with different jobs to do in the church, just as there are many needs for containers in a home. Each one has certain functions. All must be clean to be acceptable for doing their job. Just as dirt and food smears would make a dish un satisfactory, sin in ones life, false doctrine, practices contrary to the scriptures, and focusing on earthly belongings and pleasures make us unacceptable in serving God. As long as they are in our lives, we are like an unwashed dish sitting on the counter. We are just in the way.
“But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” (II Timothy 2:20-22)
II Timothy 2:16-19 describes some of the things we need to eliminate from our lives in order to please God. “But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
I John 2:15-17 points out the danger of those youthful lusts for belongings and pleasures. “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”
Instead, we need to focus on developing “righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Most homemakers have certain containers that are used specifically for a certain job. For some reason the container seems especially suited for the job, so it is the one most often used. As Peter says, a person who develops these things will never be left on the shelf.
“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.” (II Peter 1:5-9)
One who hasn’t developed these properties in his life doesn’t recognize his position, or God’s right in his life. He is content to sit in the cabinet unused. After a while dust collects and they are not ready to be used.
In my home are a large number of containers. There are some plastic trash cans, a mop bucket, canisters, nice dishes, and various baskets and pieces of pottery. Each one serves certain purposes. All of them including the trash can need cleaning from time to time to make them fit to use. Most people would refuse to eat from dirty dishes, and a dirty trash can may stink up the whole house. Washing them out makes them useable again.
There are a great many people with different jobs to do in the church, just as there are many needs for containers in a home. Each one has certain functions. All must be clean to be acceptable for doing their job. Just as dirt and food smears would make a dish un satisfactory, sin in ones life, false doctrine, practices contrary to the scriptures, and focusing on earthly belongings and pleasures make us unacceptable in serving God. As long as they are in our lives, we are like an unwashed dish sitting on the counter. We are just in the way.
“But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” (II Timothy 2:20-22)
II Timothy 2:16-19 describes some of the things we need to eliminate from our lives in order to please God. “But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
I John 2:15-17 points out the danger of those youthful lusts for belongings and pleasures. “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”
Instead, we need to focus on developing “righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Most homemakers have certain containers that are used specifically for a certain job. For some reason the container seems especially suited for the job, so it is the one most often used. As Peter says, a person who develops these things will never be left on the shelf.
“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.” (II Peter 1:5-9)
One who hasn’t developed these properties in his life doesn’t recognize his position, or God’s right in his life. He is content to sit in the cabinet unused. After a while dust collects and they are not ready to be used.
Monday, February 1, 2010
A Sure Foundation
II Timothy 2:19-20
About 1957 or 58, a well known ‘evangelist’ preached on the second coming, and stated that “the Lord will return before 1960.” Being just a child, and not knowing very much scripture, it was a scary message. Since that time, there have been hundreds of prophecies about when the Lord will return.
Some, such as the Jehovah’s Witnesses, have preached that he already came. A third group have preached that we need to resolve the worlds problems so he can come and set up his kingdom. The resulting confusion has led many to decide that the whole thing is just a figment of someone’s imagination, or an attempt to manipulate people to do certain things.
Programs by various writers and groups have cast doubt on many of the commonly accepted beliefs about what the Bible says, especially when they are contradicted by scientific discoveries and claims of supposed experts. It has led to the Bible being considered by many as unreliable at best. Even human attempts to prove Biblical statements have contributed to the problem.
Bishop Ussher was considered the authority on Biblical dates, and using his dates, historians could find no evidence of Israel going into or leaving Egypt, and other historical events did not match the records of other ancient civilizations, casting doubt on the authenticity of the Old Testament.
Ussher shows a period of approximately 279 years for the period of the judges. The book of Judges itself describes a period of about 410 years between Israel’s being attacked by others and delivered by Othniel and the death of Samson. In addition, we have an unspecified period for Joshua’s leadership and the elders that outlived him, which probably could not have been less than about 30 years, and an unspecified period under Eli and Samuel before Saul became King.
The only thing we know about Eli’s age is that he was old when he died and Samuel took over as prophet and Judge. Samuel was very young and he judged up until shortly before his death, when he anointed Saul as King. This would imply the dates should be 200 or more years earlier than Ussher proposes and makes many of the conflicts disappear. It also places the dates of Israel’s entrance to and exodus from Egypt in periods where Egypt did not keep records due to other influences. While this does not prove the Bible is true, it negates claims that it cannot be true.
As Paul advises Timothy, despite the attacks, God’s word has not been undermined or changed. One of the key provisions is that God knows who his children are, and will not forget. Our obligation to do what is right has not changed.
“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” (II Timothy 2:19)
The law of gravity does not change regardless how hard one throws the rock. If one throws a rock fast enough at the right angle, it may go into orbit. It is still falling, it just misses the earth, falling around it. Ignoring the Law of Gravity may result in someone being injured. God’s Law is not some made up story, but is the result of personal observation coupled with Gods direction. We ignore it at our own peril.
“For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 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 1:16-21)
John makes a similar statement, Stressing their actual experiencing the things they share so that we trust their statements and experience the same things ourselves.
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” (I John 1:1-3)
If we have received this message, and have had our sin removed, we ought to live as if it were gone. Romans 6:1-6 explains, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.”
The main purpose in saving us was to deliver us from the power of sin. Why should we go back into slavery to it?
About 1957 or 58, a well known ‘evangelist’ preached on the second coming, and stated that “the Lord will return before 1960.” Being just a child, and not knowing very much scripture, it was a scary message. Since that time, there have been hundreds of prophecies about when the Lord will return.
Some, such as the Jehovah’s Witnesses, have preached that he already came. A third group have preached that we need to resolve the worlds problems so he can come and set up his kingdom. The resulting confusion has led many to decide that the whole thing is just a figment of someone’s imagination, or an attempt to manipulate people to do certain things.
Programs by various writers and groups have cast doubt on many of the commonly accepted beliefs about what the Bible says, especially when they are contradicted by scientific discoveries and claims of supposed experts. It has led to the Bible being considered by many as unreliable at best. Even human attempts to prove Biblical statements have contributed to the problem.
Bishop Ussher was considered the authority on Biblical dates, and using his dates, historians could find no evidence of Israel going into or leaving Egypt, and other historical events did not match the records of other ancient civilizations, casting doubt on the authenticity of the Old Testament.
Ussher shows a period of approximately 279 years for the period of the judges. The book of Judges itself describes a period of about 410 years between Israel’s being attacked by others and delivered by Othniel and the death of Samson. In addition, we have an unspecified period for Joshua’s leadership and the elders that outlived him, which probably could not have been less than about 30 years, and an unspecified period under Eli and Samuel before Saul became King.
The only thing we know about Eli’s age is that he was old when he died and Samuel took over as prophet and Judge. Samuel was very young and he judged up until shortly before his death, when he anointed Saul as King. This would imply the dates should be 200 or more years earlier than Ussher proposes and makes many of the conflicts disappear. It also places the dates of Israel’s entrance to and exodus from Egypt in periods where Egypt did not keep records due to other influences. While this does not prove the Bible is true, it negates claims that it cannot be true.
As Paul advises Timothy, despite the attacks, God’s word has not been undermined or changed. One of the key provisions is that God knows who his children are, and will not forget. Our obligation to do what is right has not changed.
“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” (II Timothy 2:19)
The law of gravity does not change regardless how hard one throws the rock. If one throws a rock fast enough at the right angle, it may go into orbit. It is still falling, it just misses the earth, falling around it. Ignoring the Law of Gravity may result in someone being injured. God’s Law is not some made up story, but is the result of personal observation coupled with Gods direction. We ignore it at our own peril.
“For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 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 1:16-21)
John makes a similar statement, Stressing their actual experiencing the things they share so that we trust their statements and experience the same things ourselves.
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.” (I John 1:1-3)
If we have received this message, and have had our sin removed, we ought to live as if it were gone. Romans 6:1-6 explains, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.”
The main purpose in saving us was to deliver us from the power of sin. Why should we go back into slavery to it?
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Avoid Nonscriptural Teaching
II Timothy 2:16-18
On deputation several years ago, I visited an independent Baptist church in Kansas. The Sunday school lesson was a chapter in one of Focus on the Family’s books by James Dobson. When I was approved as a missionary, I was tested and counseled by Charles Solomon of Grace Fellowship, before I could be approved.
In Bible college, we were required to take certain Psychology courses, and now many colleges offer degrees in “Christian” psychology. Jay Adams’ book Competent To Counsel, is frequently referred to as a basis for these classes, which is interesting since the theme of the book was that Psychology itself had little or nothing to offer, but the scriptures provided real answers.
Traditionally Baptists held certain specific beliefs known ad Baptist Distinctives. These included individual responsibility to God, eternal security, autonomy of the local church, divine inspiration of scripture, and salvation by grace and not works. To be Baptist was to believe all these points. One who believed most but not all was Baptistic but not Baptist. Many no longer use the name Baptist, as they no longer hold these distinctives, and many others should probably drop it as they are no longer truly Baptist, merely Baptistic.
The key to all the other Baptist doctrines was that they believed that the Bible to be divinely inspired and thus the sole and final authority on all issues of faith and practice. Every doctrine or practice must be based on scripture, and any conflicting idea must be resolved by study and acceptance of the scriptural position.
In our day there are seminars, conventions, classes, clinics and meetings of all kinds teaching about every possible aspect of Christianity. There are missions boot camps, youth conferences, pastor’s schools, prophecy conferences, music seminars, fellowships, and retreats. Bible Colleges offer degrees and advanced degrees in Biblical counseling, Christian education, Theology and other subjects.
Books on every subject are also available, from Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins books on the second coming to Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Life, to Joyce Meyer’s The Battle For The Mind. Some are like the Athenians in Acts 17:21, spending all their time in nothing but trying to learn some new thing. They are like some government employees, never able to do their job because they are away at training, and as Timothy 3:7 describes them as, “Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
Paul has stressed the importance of study of the scriptures in II Timothy 2:15, and now stresses the need to avoid falling for all the other stuff that is available. For the Christian, scripture is to be the sole authority.
“But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.” (II Timothy 2:16-18)
Paul instructs Timothy to shun or deliberately avoid profane and vain babblings. Profane mean ‘having no spiritual or divine attributes,’ while vain means ‘empty, having no real value or basis.’
As he says, they will only turn people further from God, and the teachings will be like a cancer, weakening and destroying real faith. He then cites an example of how false teaching about the second coming has destroyed the faith of some, turning them from the truth.
I Timothy 6:20 warns against the same things, and especially what is passed off as scientifically proven. Some of the claims are not valid. “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called: Which some professing have erred concerning the faith.” Even if the ideas are correct, they remove the focus from God’s word to man’s ideas, which is why Paul said. “And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God,” in I Corinthians 2:4-5.
Rick Warren’s or James Dobson’s books may be completely accurate in their teachings, but they are not the word of God and as such risk focusing people on the man rather than God. They must never be more than a support reference to clarify what God has said. All their teachings must be subjugated to what scripture teaches if we are to please God.
Titus 3:9-11 warns against several things that have no value in Christianity. “But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. A man that is an heretic after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.”
Purely hypothetical questions, such as “how many angels can dance on the head of a pin?” serve only to divert from matters of real importance. It distracted the Catholic church for nearly 100 years starting with the council of Nantes. Even if an answer could be found, it would serve no useful purpose. Such questions are to be avoided because they prevent learning what is needed.
That a man is descended from a great preacher indicates nothing of his own spiritual development. He may have well imbibed the jargon with no personal knowledge or understanding. In fact , Paul stressed that his own background had to be abandoned in order to receive Christ. We are not to let someone ‘s background convince us to accept their teachings.
Contention is not a sign of Godliness. Romans 16:17 advises, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” I Corinthians 3:3 makes it clear that contention is evidence of an unspiritual state. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”
Zeal proves nothing. Throughout history some of the most zealous individuals have been involved with evil. That a man is willing to be killed or to kill for what he believes doesn’t make his belief correct. His zeal may only be a means of blackmail to get his way, as evidenced by terrorists and suicide bombers. Far too often zeal is based on our traditions rather than valid teaching. The Jews attacked Jesus on this very basis, as breaking the Law.
Jesus accused them of replacing God’s commands with their own customs and laws. “He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” (Mark 7:6-9) He was quoting a statement by Isaiah, made five hundred years before.
As a result, Titus 1:14 warns, “Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” This echoes I Timothy 1:4, stating that they cause rather than answering questions. “Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.”
Rather than getting caught up in all these things, including the modern health craze, we should focus on what God wants.
“But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” (I Timothy 4:7-8)
On deputation several years ago, I visited an independent Baptist church in Kansas. The Sunday school lesson was a chapter in one of Focus on the Family’s books by James Dobson. When I was approved as a missionary, I was tested and counseled by Charles Solomon of Grace Fellowship, before I could be approved.
In Bible college, we were required to take certain Psychology courses, and now many colleges offer degrees in “Christian” psychology. Jay Adams’ book Competent To Counsel, is frequently referred to as a basis for these classes, which is interesting since the theme of the book was that Psychology itself had little or nothing to offer, but the scriptures provided real answers.
Traditionally Baptists held certain specific beliefs known ad Baptist Distinctives. These included individual responsibility to God, eternal security, autonomy of the local church, divine inspiration of scripture, and salvation by grace and not works. To be Baptist was to believe all these points. One who believed most but not all was Baptistic but not Baptist. Many no longer use the name Baptist, as they no longer hold these distinctives, and many others should probably drop it as they are no longer truly Baptist, merely Baptistic.
The key to all the other Baptist doctrines was that they believed that the Bible to be divinely inspired and thus the sole and final authority on all issues of faith and practice. Every doctrine or practice must be based on scripture, and any conflicting idea must be resolved by study and acceptance of the scriptural position.
In our day there are seminars, conventions, classes, clinics and meetings of all kinds teaching about every possible aspect of Christianity. There are missions boot camps, youth conferences, pastor’s schools, prophecy conferences, music seminars, fellowships, and retreats. Bible Colleges offer degrees and advanced degrees in Biblical counseling, Christian education, Theology and other subjects.
Books on every subject are also available, from Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins books on the second coming to Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Life, to Joyce Meyer’s The Battle For The Mind. Some are like the Athenians in Acts 17:21, spending all their time in nothing but trying to learn some new thing. They are like some government employees, never able to do their job because they are away at training, and as Timothy 3:7 describes them as, “Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
Paul has stressed the importance of study of the scriptures in II Timothy 2:15, and now stresses the need to avoid falling for all the other stuff that is available. For the Christian, scripture is to be the sole authority.
“But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.” (II Timothy 2:16-18)
Paul instructs Timothy to shun or deliberately avoid profane and vain babblings. Profane mean ‘having no spiritual or divine attributes,’ while vain means ‘empty, having no real value or basis.’
As he says, they will only turn people further from God, and the teachings will be like a cancer, weakening and destroying real faith. He then cites an example of how false teaching about the second coming has destroyed the faith of some, turning them from the truth.
I Timothy 6:20 warns against the same things, and especially what is passed off as scientifically proven. Some of the claims are not valid. “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called: Which some professing have erred concerning the faith.” Even if the ideas are correct, they remove the focus from God’s word to man’s ideas, which is why Paul said. “And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God,” in I Corinthians 2:4-5.
Rick Warren’s or James Dobson’s books may be completely accurate in their teachings, but they are not the word of God and as such risk focusing people on the man rather than God. They must never be more than a support reference to clarify what God has said. All their teachings must be subjugated to what scripture teaches if we are to please God.
Titus 3:9-11 warns against several things that have no value in Christianity. “But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. A man that is an heretic after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.”
Purely hypothetical questions, such as “how many angels can dance on the head of a pin?” serve only to divert from matters of real importance. It distracted the Catholic church for nearly 100 years starting with the council of Nantes. Even if an answer could be found, it would serve no useful purpose. Such questions are to be avoided because they prevent learning what is needed.
That a man is descended from a great preacher indicates nothing of his own spiritual development. He may have well imbibed the jargon with no personal knowledge or understanding. In fact , Paul stressed that his own background had to be abandoned in order to receive Christ. We are not to let someone ‘s background convince us to accept their teachings.
Contention is not a sign of Godliness. Romans 16:17 advises, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” I Corinthians 3:3 makes it clear that contention is evidence of an unspiritual state. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”
Zeal proves nothing. Throughout history some of the most zealous individuals have been involved with evil. That a man is willing to be killed or to kill for what he believes doesn’t make his belief correct. His zeal may only be a means of blackmail to get his way, as evidenced by terrorists and suicide bombers. Far too often zeal is based on our traditions rather than valid teaching. The Jews attacked Jesus on this very basis, as breaking the Law.
Jesus accused them of replacing God’s commands with their own customs and laws. “He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” (Mark 7:6-9) He was quoting a statement by Isaiah, made five hundred years before.
As a result, Titus 1:14 warns, “Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” This echoes I Timothy 1:4, stating that they cause rather than answering questions. “Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.”
Rather than getting caught up in all these things, including the modern health craze, we should focus on what God wants.
“But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” (I Timothy 4:7-8)
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Why Study?
II Timothy 2:14-15
A conflict raged between missionaries to Mexico and Central America over which version of the Reina Valera Spanish Bible they should use. The newer one substituted Spirit for Ghost where ever the scriptures spoke of the Holy Ghost. Many felt that that made it a less then exact translation.
What many missionaries failed to recognize was that in Spanish, at least as used in Mexico, the word translated ‘ghost’ does not necessarily refer to a spiritual being, but merely to something that startles or scares you. As one Mexican pastor put it, To use that phrasing would cause the concept of the Holy Spirit to translate as the ‘Holy Spooky’ or ‘Holy Scary’. It doesn’t convey the same meaning. The change actually was closer to the meaning of the scripture than the older version.
There is an ongoing argument over what version of the Bible should be used in English, with some insisting that even modern versions of the King James that have updated spellings of some words are corrupt, pointing to over 600 words that have been changed. It is true that many modern versions are less than accurate translations. In fact, one of the translators of the NIV recently announced that they were redoing their translation in hopes of getting it right this time. Paul warns Timothy of the danger of getting caught up in such arguments, saying that they actually turn men from the truth.
“Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” (II Timothy 2:14)
Paul warns that some are so caught up in the exact words they will not accept sound teaching which is stated in other words. Their emphasis on the exact words confuses the issue and focuses attention on other things wit dire consequences. “If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself,” (I Timothy 6:3-5). We are to dissociate ourselves from those who are caught up in this. To associate with them exposes us to risk of being turned away ourselves.
Peter points out that not understanding the intent and meaning of the scripture leads to distortion, and finally to the destruction of those so involved. “And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.” (II Peter 3:15-17)
In II Corinthians 3:6, Paul emphasizes that our ministry in not about the exact words and letters, but about the meaning and intent of God’s word. “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.” An improper focus destroys faith and spiritual growth. Notice he is speaking of the New Testament, not just the law. As a result Paul stresses the need for study in order to know how to please God.
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15)
Imagine the embarrassment of a plumber who installed an entire plumbing system and had to remove and redo it free of charge because he had not done it in a legal manner. It was his responsibility to know and obey the code. If he had forgotten, he should have looked at the code book. It should be just as embarrassing for a pastor to teach or practice in a unacceptable manner. He has the Word of God to show him how things are to be done.
In John 5:39 Jesus told the Jews, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” In Acts 17:11, the Berean Jews are declared to be greater than those in Thessalonica. “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.” Paul advised the Thessalonians to test everything and keep what was worthwhile. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” (I Thessalonians 5:21)
The focus of our study must be the scripture. I Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that it teaches everything we need to be pleasing to God. “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.” The study is needed because it is so easy for us to misinterpret words. By searching the scripture, we can be sure we are not doing so. II Peter 1:20 reminds us, “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” Scripture must be compared with scripture.
It is the Holy Spirit’s job to teach us everything we need to know, and he will use the scriptures to do so. He can only bring to memory what we have studied. John 14:6 states, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”
One of the things he does to teach us is to compare scripture with scripture according to I Corinthians 2:12-14. “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 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.”
Without his leadership we will never attain more than a superficial understanding of the scriptures. With his leadership, the scripture will become quite obvious. John 16: 13 promises, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come.”
A conflict raged between missionaries to Mexico and Central America over which version of the Reina Valera Spanish Bible they should use. The newer one substituted Spirit for Ghost where ever the scriptures spoke of the Holy Ghost. Many felt that that made it a less then exact translation.
What many missionaries failed to recognize was that in Spanish, at least as used in Mexico, the word translated ‘ghost’ does not necessarily refer to a spiritual being, but merely to something that startles or scares you. As one Mexican pastor put it, To use that phrasing would cause the concept of the Holy Spirit to translate as the ‘Holy Spooky’ or ‘Holy Scary’. It doesn’t convey the same meaning. The change actually was closer to the meaning of the scripture than the older version.
There is an ongoing argument over what version of the Bible should be used in English, with some insisting that even modern versions of the King James that have updated spellings of some words are corrupt, pointing to over 600 words that have been changed. It is true that many modern versions are less than accurate translations. In fact, one of the translators of the NIV recently announced that they were redoing their translation in hopes of getting it right this time. Paul warns Timothy of the danger of getting caught up in such arguments, saying that they actually turn men from the truth.
“Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” (II Timothy 2:14)
Paul warns that some are so caught up in the exact words they will not accept sound teaching which is stated in other words. Their emphasis on the exact words confuses the issue and focuses attention on other things wit dire consequences. “If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself,” (I Timothy 6:3-5). We are to dissociate ourselves from those who are caught up in this. To associate with them exposes us to risk of being turned away ourselves.
Peter points out that not understanding the intent and meaning of the scripture leads to distortion, and finally to the destruction of those so involved. “And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.” (II Peter 3:15-17)
In II Corinthians 3:6, Paul emphasizes that our ministry in not about the exact words and letters, but about the meaning and intent of God’s word. “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.” An improper focus destroys faith and spiritual growth. Notice he is speaking of the New Testament, not just the law. As a result Paul stresses the need for study in order to know how to please God.
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15)
Imagine the embarrassment of a plumber who installed an entire plumbing system and had to remove and redo it free of charge because he had not done it in a legal manner. It was his responsibility to know and obey the code. If he had forgotten, he should have looked at the code book. It should be just as embarrassing for a pastor to teach or practice in a unacceptable manner. He has the Word of God to show him how things are to be done.
In John 5:39 Jesus told the Jews, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” In Acts 17:11, the Berean Jews are declared to be greater than those in Thessalonica. “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.” Paul advised the Thessalonians to test everything and keep what was worthwhile. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” (I Thessalonians 5:21)
The focus of our study must be the scripture. I Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that it teaches everything we need to be pleasing to God. “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.” The study is needed because it is so easy for us to misinterpret words. By searching the scripture, we can be sure we are not doing so. II Peter 1:20 reminds us, “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” Scripture must be compared with scripture.
It is the Holy Spirit’s job to teach us everything we need to know, and he will use the scriptures to do so. He can only bring to memory what we have studied. John 14:6 states, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”
One of the things he does to teach us is to compare scripture with scripture according to I Corinthians 2:12-14. “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 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.”
Without his leadership we will never attain more than a superficial understanding of the scriptures. With his leadership, the scripture will become quite obvious. John 16: 13 promises, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come.”
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The Need to Remember
II Timothy 2:8-10
Did you ever watch a newborn calf? If not, think about a puppy or kitten. Every thing is new to them. When they first stand up, they leave the impression that to simply move one foot would, and sometimes does cause them to fall down. Shortly they begin to understand which muscles make which leg move which way and they start to get control of standing. Before long they try to walk, somewhat shakily.
In a couple of hours they may try to run or jump around, often falling down. The second day they fall less and jump for shear joy from time to time. They are a lot of fun to watch for the first several days. As their memory of how to do things develops, they become more and more sure of their walking running and jumping, and curiosity takes over, getting them into all sorts of mishaps. In a short time they remember the consequences and don’t repeat all their mistakes.
One of my employers talked about a certain group of his employees. As he said, they were some of the sharpest people he’d ever seen about picking up physical activities. One family, however, worried him a lot. As he said, “Every day is a whole new world.” Every day one had to go through every step of the procedure again. Once they had been shown, they would do it perfectly for the rest of the day, but there seemed to be no long term memory. He suspected that they just didn’t trouble to remember, but was worried that they’d never be able to function in a job where there was no one to review all the steps every day.
While learning by memory is often frowned on, and with reason, learning requires memory. If we do not remember, we can never progress beyond the first hesitant moves. We can never learn to reason or plan, to read or to make decisions. Our whole life would be just like the calf’s first few hours, constantly falling down and getting into trouble. Our memories enable us to predict the outcome of our actions. They are the basis for intelligent and informed decisions and actions.
Paul’s ministry was based on his memory of what Christ had done for the world, including Paul, and Timothy must do the same if he is to succeed in the ministry. Without the assurance of Christ’s being raise from the dead, ministry is an exercise in futility, as I Corinthians 15 makes abundantly clear. Thankfully God has given assurance by raising Christ from the dead. “Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” (Acts 17:31) Timothy, and every minister needs to recognize the importance.
“Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” (II Timothy 2:8-10)
Only as we remember what Christ did and why will we be empowered to serve God in a manner pleasing to him. Hebrews 12:1-3 directs us as follows: “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds."
Christ’s love and actions are the basis for our ministry, and his example, despite the rejection of those around him is the source of our encouragement. His resurrection is proof of God’s ability to resurrect us. We can believe his promises, but failure to believe will not change the results. He will not break his word whether we believe him or not.
“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” (II Timothy 2:11-13)
Remembering these things is just as critical for the Christians as for the minister. He must cause them to remember as well.
“Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” (II Timothy 2:14)
It is critical that they accept what God has said, not spend their time arguing about semantic differences or differences in spelling. Many of the disagreements over which translation of the bible become nothing more than a source of confusion and conflict. Arguments about whether II Timothy 3:17 should say throughly or thoroughly, for example, have no value, merely causing strife and turning away people from Christ. According to the dictionary, they are simply variations in spelling of the same word. Many such arguments have the same effect, and they are to be forbidden.
Did you ever watch a newborn calf? If not, think about a puppy or kitten. Every thing is new to them. When they first stand up, they leave the impression that to simply move one foot would, and sometimes does cause them to fall down. Shortly they begin to understand which muscles make which leg move which way and they start to get control of standing. Before long they try to walk, somewhat shakily.
In a couple of hours they may try to run or jump around, often falling down. The second day they fall less and jump for shear joy from time to time. They are a lot of fun to watch for the first several days. As their memory of how to do things develops, they become more and more sure of their walking running and jumping, and curiosity takes over, getting them into all sorts of mishaps. In a short time they remember the consequences and don’t repeat all their mistakes.
One of my employers talked about a certain group of his employees. As he said, they were some of the sharpest people he’d ever seen about picking up physical activities. One family, however, worried him a lot. As he said, “Every day is a whole new world.” Every day one had to go through every step of the procedure again. Once they had been shown, they would do it perfectly for the rest of the day, but there seemed to be no long term memory. He suspected that they just didn’t trouble to remember, but was worried that they’d never be able to function in a job where there was no one to review all the steps every day.
While learning by memory is often frowned on, and with reason, learning requires memory. If we do not remember, we can never progress beyond the first hesitant moves. We can never learn to reason or plan, to read or to make decisions. Our whole life would be just like the calf’s first few hours, constantly falling down and getting into trouble. Our memories enable us to predict the outcome of our actions. They are the basis for intelligent and informed decisions and actions.
Paul’s ministry was based on his memory of what Christ had done for the world, including Paul, and Timothy must do the same if he is to succeed in the ministry. Without the assurance of Christ’s being raise from the dead, ministry is an exercise in futility, as I Corinthians 15 makes abundantly clear. Thankfully God has given assurance by raising Christ from the dead. “Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” (Acts 17:31) Timothy, and every minister needs to recognize the importance.
“Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” (II Timothy 2:8-10)
Only as we remember what Christ did and why will we be empowered to serve God in a manner pleasing to him. Hebrews 12:1-3 directs us as follows: “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds."
Christ’s love and actions are the basis for our ministry, and his example, despite the rejection of those around him is the source of our encouragement. His resurrection is proof of God’s ability to resurrect us. We can believe his promises, but failure to believe will not change the results. He will not break his word whether we believe him or not.
“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” (II Timothy 2:11-13)
Remembering these things is just as critical for the Christians as for the minister. He must cause them to remember as well.
“Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” (II Timothy 2:14)
It is critical that they accept what God has said, not spend their time arguing about semantic differences or differences in spelling. Many of the disagreements over which translation of the bible become nothing more than a source of confusion and conflict. Arguments about whether II Timothy 3:17 should say throughly or thoroughly, for example, have no value, merely causing strife and turning away people from Christ. According to the dictionary, they are simply variations in spelling of the same word. Many such arguments have the same effect, and they are to be forbidden.
You Can’t Work If You Don’t Eat
II Timothy 2:6-7
It seems ridiculous that schools would need to provide breakfast for students. Unfortunately, so many parents have neglected the responsibility that the schools have taken on the burden. They found that children who didn’t eat breakfast didn’t learn as much as those who were not hungry. Part of the problem was being distracted by their hunger, and part of it turned out to be a lack of nourishment caused reduced mental acuity.
Often companies provide a donuts or other food before work or at a mid morning break because employees who are hungry are less efficient and alert. In physically demanding jobs, they may even collapse from exhaustion.
Just as food is required for physical and mental activity, Spiritual food is essential for spiritual activity. A pastor or teacher must first have their own spiritual needs met. A pastor or teacher who does not take in spiritually will soon have nothing to offer, just as a cup of water which is not replenished will run dry. This is one aspect of what Paul states.
“The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.” (II Timothy 2:6)
The second aspect of Paul’s statement is that one can only give what one has. Just as a cup of water can never give oil, a teacher can never give what they haven’t learned. That is just common sense, but we regularly see unprepared people placed in a position of trying to teach what they don’t know. The results are terrible.
A pastor who has not learned to walk in the spirit can never teach others to do so. An unsaved man can never teach others how to be saved. This does not imply that an unsaved person cannot quote a verse or passage that the Holy Spirit can use to cause someone to get saved, but the unsaved person cannot teach him because he doesn‘t know himself. A person who doesn’t know the subject may present facts, but have no understanding of the relevance of those facts. The hearer must learn to use the facts elsewhere.
“Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.” (II Timothy 2:7)
Before a person enters the ministry, he needs to consider the points Paul has made. First he must understand what the job entails, and who he is working for. If he doesn’t understand this, he will never be able to perform satisfactorily.
Secondly he must be willing to set aside other things to do the job. There is nothing more frustrating than hiring some one to help you and having them spend all their time on the phone or doing something else instead of working.
Thirdly, he must be willing to do the job properly. He is expected to minister the way God described, not the way he wants to. A person who refuses to follow instructions is unsatisfactory as an employee.
Finally the person must be willing to learn and expand his knowledge to be effective in the ministry. Employees who are unwilling to attain the minimum standard or those who refuse to learn additional material are of limited value, and their knowledge soon becomes obsolete.
It seems ridiculous that schools would need to provide breakfast for students. Unfortunately, so many parents have neglected the responsibility that the schools have taken on the burden. They found that children who didn’t eat breakfast didn’t learn as much as those who were not hungry. Part of the problem was being distracted by their hunger, and part of it turned out to be a lack of nourishment caused reduced mental acuity.
Often companies provide a donuts or other food before work or at a mid morning break because employees who are hungry are less efficient and alert. In physically demanding jobs, they may even collapse from exhaustion.
Just as food is required for physical and mental activity, Spiritual food is essential for spiritual activity. A pastor or teacher must first have their own spiritual needs met. A pastor or teacher who does not take in spiritually will soon have nothing to offer, just as a cup of water which is not replenished will run dry. This is one aspect of what Paul states.
“The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.” (II Timothy 2:6)
The second aspect of Paul’s statement is that one can only give what one has. Just as a cup of water can never give oil, a teacher can never give what they haven’t learned. That is just common sense, but we regularly see unprepared people placed in a position of trying to teach what they don’t know. The results are terrible.
A pastor who has not learned to walk in the spirit can never teach others to do so. An unsaved man can never teach others how to be saved. This does not imply that an unsaved person cannot quote a verse or passage that the Holy Spirit can use to cause someone to get saved, but the unsaved person cannot teach him because he doesn‘t know himself. A person who doesn’t know the subject may present facts, but have no understanding of the relevance of those facts. The hearer must learn to use the facts elsewhere.
“Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.” (II Timothy 2:7)
Before a person enters the ministry, he needs to consider the points Paul has made. First he must understand what the job entails, and who he is working for. If he doesn’t understand this, he will never be able to perform satisfactorily.
Secondly he must be willing to set aside other things to do the job. There is nothing more frustrating than hiring some one to help you and having them spend all their time on the phone or doing something else instead of working.
Thirdly, he must be willing to do the job properly. He is expected to minister the way God described, not the way he wants to. A person who refuses to follow instructions is unsatisfactory as an employee.
Finally the person must be willing to learn and expand his knowledge to be effective in the ministry. Employees who are unwilling to attain the minimum standard or those who refuse to learn additional material are of limited value, and their knowledge soon becomes obsolete.
Monday, January 25, 2010
You Have To Play By The Rules
II Timothy 2:5
In our modern day sport program, the idea of sportsmanship is largely ignored. The attitude that “winning isn’t the most important thing, it’s the only thing’ is prevalent. The pressure kids are put under to win is causing serious emotional disturbances in many children. Now it is common to hear statements like ‘if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying’ are common.
The New Mexico University girls soccer player who punched one girl in the back and grabbed another’s hair to throw her to the ground was only doing what she had been taught is necessary to win. It was only one in a long list of such incidents. Several years ago, one figure skater had her competitor attacked and seriously injured to guarantee her own place in the Olympics. Brawls between professional baseball teams are common, as are deliberate attempts to injure other players in football or basketball.
The use of performance enhancing drugs, specially designed equipment, and illegal recruiting methods are rampant at every level in most sports. Some schools are noted for having corrupt officials, and false accusations of misconduct occasionally are spread to eliminate a team that might be a threat.
The idea behind sports was supposed to be to determine who played the best, not who was the biggest cheater. The fact that one feels the need to cheat implies the cheater knows he is not the best player. If he were better he could win without cheating.
Because of the cheating, players and entire college athletic programs are suspended. Olympic teams and contestants have had their titles stripped, and well known players have had induction into the hall of fame blocked. Pete Rose, a famous baseball player is one of those who experienced such punishment. Paul warns that the same is true in serving God.
“And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” (II Timothy 2:5)
Cheaters assume they can remain undetected and in sports they often do. In serving God, however, there is nothing secret. As Luke 8:17 tells us, “For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” Hebrews 4:13 that God sees everything that is done. “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.”
Galatians 6:7-8 stresses that God will not be fooled, but that every person will receive exactly what is deserved as a result. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Pastors and leaders must lead according to God’s plan, not taking advantage of their position for their own benefit. Jesus dealt with the issue in Luke.
“And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Lu Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.
But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.
And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” (Luke 12:42-48)
Notice that Jesus said that the man who didn’t know and did wrong will still be punished, just not as much as the one who deliberately disobeyed. It is the pastor’s responsibility to know what God expects. It is why II Timothy 2:15 stresses study. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
II Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that the scripture will teach us everything we need to accomplish what God has called the pastor to do. “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.”
Actions contrary to scripture are inexcusable. The scriptures are available, and the Holy Spirit will teach us all things according to John 14:26. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” If a man doesn’t know, it is because he has not studied God’s directions, though he may have a college degree in pastoral theology.
Labels: II Timothy draft
In our modern day sport program, the idea of sportsmanship is largely ignored. The attitude that “winning isn’t the most important thing, it’s the only thing’ is prevalent. The pressure kids are put under to win is causing serious emotional disturbances in many children. Now it is common to hear statements like ‘if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying’ are common.
The New Mexico University girls soccer player who punched one girl in the back and grabbed another’s hair to throw her to the ground was only doing what she had been taught is necessary to win. It was only one in a long list of such incidents. Several years ago, one figure skater had her competitor attacked and seriously injured to guarantee her own place in the Olympics. Brawls between professional baseball teams are common, as are deliberate attempts to injure other players in football or basketball.
The use of performance enhancing drugs, specially designed equipment, and illegal recruiting methods are rampant at every level in most sports. Some schools are noted for having corrupt officials, and false accusations of misconduct occasionally are spread to eliminate a team that might be a threat.
The idea behind sports was supposed to be to determine who played the best, not who was the biggest cheater. The fact that one feels the need to cheat implies the cheater knows he is not the best player. If he were better he could win without cheating.
Because of the cheating, players and entire college athletic programs are suspended. Olympic teams and contestants have had their titles stripped, and well known players have had induction into the hall of fame blocked. Pete Rose, a famous baseball player is one of those who experienced such punishment. Paul warns that the same is true in serving God.
“And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” (II Timothy 2:5)
Cheaters assume they can remain undetected and in sports they often do. In serving God, however, there is nothing secret. As Luke 8:17 tells us, “For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” Hebrews 4:13 that God sees everything that is done. “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.”
Galatians 6:7-8 stresses that God will not be fooled, but that every person will receive exactly what is deserved as a result. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Pastors and leaders must lead according to God’s plan, not taking advantage of their position for their own benefit. Jesus dealt with the issue in Luke.
“And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Lu Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.
But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.
And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” (Luke 12:42-48)
Notice that Jesus said that the man who didn’t know and did wrong will still be punished, just not as much as the one who deliberately disobeyed. It is the pastor’s responsibility to know what God expects. It is why II Timothy 2:15 stresses study. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
II Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that the scripture will teach us everything we need to accomplish what God has called the pastor to do. “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.”
Actions contrary to scripture are inexcusable. The scriptures are available, and the Holy Spirit will teach us all things according to John 14:26. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” If a man doesn’t know, it is because he has not studied God’s directions, though he may have a college degree in pastoral theology.
Labels: II Timothy draft
Being a Good Soldier
II Timothy 2:3-4
When my parents went to the Navajo mission field, they had no support promised, so Dad took a job with the Navajo Tribe as a construction foreman. He started a church just off the reservation and when the opportunity presented, applied for a piece of land at Navajo, New Mexico. He was required to give up his job when he was approved as a missionary, and his income dropped to a tenth what he’d been making. The house we lived in was a rented from another mission group that had decided it wasn’t good enough for their people, but it was the only thing available.
In addition, Dad had severe allergies, especially to pine and juniper. Those are the most common trees on the reservation, and Navajo was the site of one of the largest sawmills in the world, producing vast amounts of pine lumber. Sometimes, Dad’s eyes would swell completely shut, and he had to take allergy shots and treatments weekly.
Bill and Nita Miller started at Crystal, New Mexico, and Nita also had severe allergies which required regular shots and treatments. Bill had other serious health conditions. Jesse Chaney, who started the church in Crownpoint, New Mexico had severe health problems. I grew up thinking that such things were just part of life and accepting them as part of serving God.
Imagine my surprise when one missionary left another field because of his wife’s allergies. In discussing it with her, we learned that her allergy was a mild allergy to dust, and required no treatment. Another missionary refused to go to the field because he couldn’t find a house as nice as he demanded while a third refused to come until he had at least $3000 a month in support. At the time, all the BBFI missionaries on the Navajo field combined did not have that much support. Clearly their idea of missions was different than that of those doing the work.
Paul’s instruction to Timothy compares the job to that of a soldier. A soldier must give up his own personal comfort and goals in order to please those he serves. He needs to know who he serves, and Galatians 1:10 stresses the recognition of who we serve. “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” To serve God, Timothy must give up his own comfort, and goals, as well as efforts to please other people. The goal is to please God. Efforts to please others prevent our pleasing God.
“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.” (II Timothy 2:3-4)
In Matthew 6, Jesus addressed the same point. He makes it very clear that we ought not be focused on what the world has to offer, but on eternal values. What we value most will determine our priorities.
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
If one is to serve Christ, he must focus completely on what Christ demands. To do otherwise is like being cross eyed. One can never be sure what he is actually seeing because his vision switches from one eye to the other. Sometimes he see both things at the same time, and is confused as to what is what. Matthew 6:22-23 describes the problem. “The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” It is nearly as bad, and sometimes worse than being blind. One can never commit because he doesn’t know what is real. As James 1:8 says, “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.”
Many politicians find their loyalties divided between their party and their constituents and are forced to choose on or the other. It is the cause of many of the problems in the United Stated. Similar conflicts arise for Christians between what God has commanded and what the groups they belong to demand. As Jesus said, It is impossible to please both.
“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” (Matthew 6:24-25)
Trying to get the things we need and want, whether by getting them ourselves, or by pleasing others so they will give to us diverts us from what is most important. It ignores what God does everyday around us.
“Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” (Matthew 6:26-30”
These are the things everyone needs, and God has promised to supply them. Fretting about them is effectively calling God a liar. He cannot.
“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.” (Matthew 6:31-32)
Rather than allowing our focus to be divided, we need to concentrate on pleasing God. He will take care of supplying the things we need and want. We can’t foresee future problems, so there is no use worrying over them. We have enough to deal with at the moment.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matthew 6:33-34)
When my parents went to the Navajo mission field, they had no support promised, so Dad took a job with the Navajo Tribe as a construction foreman. He started a church just off the reservation and when the opportunity presented, applied for a piece of land at Navajo, New Mexico. He was required to give up his job when he was approved as a missionary, and his income dropped to a tenth what he’d been making. The house we lived in was a rented from another mission group that had decided it wasn’t good enough for their people, but it was the only thing available.
In addition, Dad had severe allergies, especially to pine and juniper. Those are the most common trees on the reservation, and Navajo was the site of one of the largest sawmills in the world, producing vast amounts of pine lumber. Sometimes, Dad’s eyes would swell completely shut, and he had to take allergy shots and treatments weekly.
Bill and Nita Miller started at Crystal, New Mexico, and Nita also had severe allergies which required regular shots and treatments. Bill had other serious health conditions. Jesse Chaney, who started the church in Crownpoint, New Mexico had severe health problems. I grew up thinking that such things were just part of life and accepting them as part of serving God.
Imagine my surprise when one missionary left another field because of his wife’s allergies. In discussing it with her, we learned that her allergy was a mild allergy to dust, and required no treatment. Another missionary refused to go to the field because he couldn’t find a house as nice as he demanded while a third refused to come until he had at least $3000 a month in support. At the time, all the BBFI missionaries on the Navajo field combined did not have that much support. Clearly their idea of missions was different than that of those doing the work.
Paul’s instruction to Timothy compares the job to that of a soldier. A soldier must give up his own personal comfort and goals in order to please those he serves. He needs to know who he serves, and Galatians 1:10 stresses the recognition of who we serve. “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” To serve God, Timothy must give up his own comfort, and goals, as well as efforts to please other people. The goal is to please God. Efforts to please others prevent our pleasing God.
“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.” (II Timothy 2:3-4)
In Matthew 6, Jesus addressed the same point. He makes it very clear that we ought not be focused on what the world has to offer, but on eternal values. What we value most will determine our priorities.
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
If one is to serve Christ, he must focus completely on what Christ demands. To do otherwise is like being cross eyed. One can never be sure what he is actually seeing because his vision switches from one eye to the other. Sometimes he see both things at the same time, and is confused as to what is what. Matthew 6:22-23 describes the problem. “The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” It is nearly as bad, and sometimes worse than being blind. One can never commit because he doesn’t know what is real. As James 1:8 says, “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.”
Many politicians find their loyalties divided between their party and their constituents and are forced to choose on or the other. It is the cause of many of the problems in the United Stated. Similar conflicts arise for Christians between what God has commanded and what the groups they belong to demand. As Jesus said, It is impossible to please both.
“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” (Matthew 6:24-25)
Trying to get the things we need and want, whether by getting them ourselves, or by pleasing others so they will give to us diverts us from what is most important. It ignores what God does everyday around us.
“Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” (Matthew 6:26-30”
These are the things everyone needs, and God has promised to supply them. Fretting about them is effectively calling God a liar. He cannot.
“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.” (Matthew 6:31-32)
Rather than allowing our focus to be divided, we need to concentrate on pleasing God. He will take care of supplying the things we need and want. We can’t foresee future problems, so there is no use worrying over them. We have enough to deal with at the moment.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matthew 6:33-34)
Friday, January 22, 2010
Preparing Others To Teach
Timothy 2:1-2
In the book Super Freakonomics, the authors examine a little of the research into the effect of genetic factors, cultural factors and other influences on what people accomplish. As they mention, a boy born in August has one and a half times as good a chance of making the Major Leagues in baseball as a boy born in July. It has nothing to do with natural talent, but with cut off dates for enrolling in youth leagues. Since the cutoff is August first, boys born in august are almost a year older when they start than boys born in July. The greater maturity makes them appear more talented, and they get more attention, further increasing their skills.
While this is a major difference, there is a far greater difference. A boy who’s father was a Major League player is 800 times as likely to become a Major League player. Similar discrepancies are found in other sports and professions. While there are differences in physical ability and mental capacity, they are not nearly that pronounced. Most of the difference is a result of learning and effort at the job. Often those with less innate ability out do the more talented because they work harder at it.
People tend to accomplish what they devote most of their energy to, whether becoming a professional athlete, banker, plumber, terrorist, or drug addict. In the next few verses, Paul lays down some principles that must be followed to have a ministry that will be pleasing to God. As Galatians 1:10 stresses, we have to choose whether to please God or someone else. “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” What pleases God seldom pleases most of those around us.
Every Christian will have to give his own account according to Romans 14:12. “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Those who are pastors and teachers are also responsible for what they have taught and how they have influenced others to serve God. Hebrews 13:17 describes this. “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
I Corinthians 3:13-15 warns, “Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.”
It is with an awareness of the responsibility, and the consequences of how we fulfill it that Paul gives the next few instructions. Notice these next two verses.
“Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” (II Timothy 2:1-2)
Because of the ease with which some turn away, and the responsibility for teaching them, Timothy must recognize the grace of God. Our salvation, and our righteousness is a gift from God. They are not the result of our efforts. At the same time, we have a responsibility to live up to what we have, and especially if we are in a position of leadership. Failure to understand this weakens our ability to teach others.
The Great Commission, for all Christians, is found in Matthew 28:18-20. “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach(matatheno, disciple) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching(didasko, teaching) them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” The job isn’t complete until they have been saved, baptized, and taught to obey Christ’s teachings. Evangelism is only the first step.
Paul instructs Timothy to commit what he has learned to faithful men, but to do it in a way they will be able to teach others also. It is especially the pastor’s responsibility. Hebrews 5:11-6:8 describes a group who have not learned what they should have, with the result that some are not even truly saved, and none are equipped to carry out the whole Great Commission.
Hebrews 5:12-14 makes it clear that they had not been properly taught, and were stuck, not even clearly understanding the basics of what was required for salvation. “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
Even to win others to Christ requires more than knowing the mechanics of the ‘Romans Road’ or some other ‘Plan of Salvation.’ While they are basic, an understanding of one’s natural state of sin, of the Holy Spirit’s action, and personal commitment underlying the promises is critical. Salvation can not be received without all of the above as well as confessing Christ, although many may not be conscious of their presence at the time.
To resolve the problem and prepare the group to fulfill their responsibility, the author states his plan in Hebrews 6:1-3.
“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit.”
He then goes rather deeply into what was required for our salvation, on God’s part and the consequences of not taking it seriously. Paul is charging Timothy with the seriousness of the responsibility.
In the book Super Freakonomics, the authors examine a little of the research into the effect of genetic factors, cultural factors and other influences on what people accomplish. As they mention, a boy born in August has one and a half times as good a chance of making the Major Leagues in baseball as a boy born in July. It has nothing to do with natural talent, but with cut off dates for enrolling in youth leagues. Since the cutoff is August first, boys born in august are almost a year older when they start than boys born in July. The greater maturity makes them appear more talented, and they get more attention, further increasing their skills.
While this is a major difference, there is a far greater difference. A boy who’s father was a Major League player is 800 times as likely to become a Major League player. Similar discrepancies are found in other sports and professions. While there are differences in physical ability and mental capacity, they are not nearly that pronounced. Most of the difference is a result of learning and effort at the job. Often those with less innate ability out do the more talented because they work harder at it.
People tend to accomplish what they devote most of their energy to, whether becoming a professional athlete, banker, plumber, terrorist, or drug addict. In the next few verses, Paul lays down some principles that must be followed to have a ministry that will be pleasing to God. As Galatians 1:10 stresses, we have to choose whether to please God or someone else. “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” What pleases God seldom pleases most of those around us.
Every Christian will have to give his own account according to Romans 14:12. “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Those who are pastors and teachers are also responsible for what they have taught and how they have influenced others to serve God. Hebrews 13:17 describes this. “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
I Corinthians 3:13-15 warns, “Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.”
It is with an awareness of the responsibility, and the consequences of how we fulfill it that Paul gives the next few instructions. Notice these next two verses.
“Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” (II Timothy 2:1-2)
Because of the ease with which some turn away, and the responsibility for teaching them, Timothy must recognize the grace of God. Our salvation, and our righteousness is a gift from God. They are not the result of our efforts. At the same time, we have a responsibility to live up to what we have, and especially if we are in a position of leadership. Failure to understand this weakens our ability to teach others.
The Great Commission, for all Christians, is found in Matthew 28:18-20. “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach(matatheno, disciple) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching(didasko, teaching) them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” The job isn’t complete until they have been saved, baptized, and taught to obey Christ’s teachings. Evangelism is only the first step.
Paul instructs Timothy to commit what he has learned to faithful men, but to do it in a way they will be able to teach others also. It is especially the pastor’s responsibility. Hebrews 5:11-6:8 describes a group who have not learned what they should have, with the result that some are not even truly saved, and none are equipped to carry out the whole Great Commission.
Hebrews 5:12-14 makes it clear that they had not been properly taught, and were stuck, not even clearly understanding the basics of what was required for salvation. “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
Even to win others to Christ requires more than knowing the mechanics of the ‘Romans Road’ or some other ‘Plan of Salvation.’ While they are basic, an understanding of one’s natural state of sin, of the Holy Spirit’s action, and personal commitment underlying the promises is critical. Salvation can not be received without all of the above as well as confessing Christ, although many may not be conscious of their presence at the time.
To resolve the problem and prepare the group to fulfill their responsibility, the author states his plan in Hebrews 6:1-3.
“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit.”
He then goes rather deeply into what was required for our salvation, on God’s part and the consequences of not taking it seriously. Paul is charging Timothy with the seriousness of the responsibility.
Guarding Ones Self Against False Doctrine
II Timothy 1:13-18
Speaking to the Galatians, Paul mentions being surprised at how easily they have turned from what Paul had taught them to what others said. The claims of others were simply accepted without question. Unfortunately some of those new teachers were there to turn people away from God by perverting the Gospel.
“I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 1:6-12)
We are not here to satisfy other people, but to please God. Many of those who teach other things are only there to please themselves or to reap their own benefit. Following their teachings leads away from Christ. Paul’s message was assuredly from God. Any contradictory teaching was necessarily from Satan.
The gospel does not change for any one, but it is especially critical that one who is going into the ministry be correct in what he believes. His message will affect not only himself, but everyone who hears him. If it is incorrect, neither he, nor his hearers will be able to please God. It is also necessary that he maintain that pure spiritual life by the Holy Spirit’s power. It is amazing how easily one can accept false doctrine.
“Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.” (II Timothy 1:13-14)
The churches in Asia had turned to other doctrine and turned away from what Paul taught, even counting his teaching as false doctrine. This turning away hurt Paul deeply, and he warns Timothy to remind him how easily it can happen if we neglect sound doctrine. II Timothy 1:15 advises, “This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.”
Paul had expended a great deal of effort on those churches, and yet they turned away. Galatians 4:13-17 describes what had happened. “Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.”
Over the years, we have seen many Christians and churches succumb to false teaching and turn against even those who originally established the church. Most of the changes are made to promote the new pastor, either in his reputation with his group, or to establish himself as being in control. The original pastor is degraded to make the new one look better.
Fortunately, not all fall for the false teachers. They still appreciate the teaching of the original pastor, and learn to check what is truth. Onesiphorous was one of these who held to what he had been taught, and did not count Paul as an enemy. His faithfulness was a major encouragement to Paul.
“The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.” (II Timothy 1:17-18)
Without ones like Onesiphorous, discouragement would cause many to quit.
Speaking to the Galatians, Paul mentions being surprised at how easily they have turned from what Paul had taught them to what others said. The claims of others were simply accepted without question. Unfortunately some of those new teachers were there to turn people away from God by perverting the Gospel.
“I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 1:6-12)
We are not here to satisfy other people, but to please God. Many of those who teach other things are only there to please themselves or to reap their own benefit. Following their teachings leads away from Christ. Paul’s message was assuredly from God. Any contradictory teaching was necessarily from Satan.
The gospel does not change for any one, but it is especially critical that one who is going into the ministry be correct in what he believes. His message will affect not only himself, but everyone who hears him. If it is incorrect, neither he, nor his hearers will be able to please God. It is also necessary that he maintain that pure spiritual life by the Holy Spirit’s power. It is amazing how easily one can accept false doctrine.
“Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.” (II Timothy 1:13-14)
The churches in Asia had turned to other doctrine and turned away from what Paul taught, even counting his teaching as false doctrine. This turning away hurt Paul deeply, and he warns Timothy to remind him how easily it can happen if we neglect sound doctrine. II Timothy 1:15 advises, “This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.”
Paul had expended a great deal of effort on those churches, and yet they turned away. Galatians 4:13-17 describes what had happened. “Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.”
Over the years, we have seen many Christians and churches succumb to false teaching and turn against even those who originally established the church. Most of the changes are made to promote the new pastor, either in his reputation with his group, or to establish himself as being in control. The original pastor is degraded to make the new one look better.
Fortunately, not all fall for the false teachers. They still appreciate the teaching of the original pastor, and learn to check what is truth. Onesiphorous was one of these who held to what he had been taught, and did not count Paul as an enemy. His faithfulness was a major encouragement to Paul.
“The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.” (II Timothy 1:17-18)
Without ones like Onesiphorous, discouragement would cause many to quit.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
You Can’t Stay Here
II Timothy 1:7-12
At Navajo, New Mexico, there were towering Red cliffs along the eastern side of town. My brothers and I loved to climb around on them and hike up Fuzzy Mountain. From time to time, I would find a place where I lacked confidence in my ability to climb a spot. Sometimes getting in such positions scared me, and I had to just stop and get my fear under control so I could finish my climb.
Trying to climb in the clutch of that fear distorted my judgment, and paralyzed me. Once I had my fear under control, I could make valid judgments, which restored my confidence. I could then enjoy my climb again. The more I climbed, the easier it became to control that fear, and enjoy the climbing. While the fear was entirely reasonable and legitimate, uncontrolled fear would result in paralysis and possibly injury or death.
What appears impossible to the inexperienced rock climber is not even a challenge for the expert. He knows his ability and strength. He knows his goals, and he trusts his own judgment. The novice knows none of these things, and the expert’s moves seem very foolhardy. Sometimes what God asks us to do is the same way. To the unbelievers it seems ridiculous to try. They have no idea what we have to base our actions on. God has provided for us to not give in to fear.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (II Timothy 1:7)
My brother Keith was less troubled by fear of heights than I or my younger brother. Frequently we allowed him to go first, watching carefully how he did it. His success encouraged us, and observation helped us to see things we might not have otherwise seen. Others who went with us turned away convinced it was a waste of time, but our observations never failed to make it possible for us to get there. Paul is setting an example for Timothy to follow, demonstrating that success is possible. By following the same path, he can succeed but it will require going through the same afflictions.
“Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.” (II Timothy 1:8-11)
We do not face these afflictions alone, but in the power of God. He provided salvation, not because of what we did but for his own purposes, and had made all the arrangements before the world was created, although it was not revealed until Christ came. Paul was appointed to minister to those who were not Jews. It was essential he accomplish the task if he was to do what he had been called for.
“For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.” (II Timothy 1:12)
Paul’s efforts are based on faith in God. Even should he appear to fail, God will have recorded his efforts and will not forget. This is what Jesus promised in Matthew 16:24-27. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
We took some other boys climbing. One of them gave way to panic in a spot where it was difficult to get to him. By placing myself between him and the drop off I was finally able to convince him that he wouldn’t fall as long as I was there. Had he not trusted me and controlled his fear, sooner or later his grip would have given way and he would have fallen. The very effort to preserve his life would have been fatal. He had to take the risk to survive.
The same is true with our eternity. Unless we are willing to trust Christ to preserve us, there is no hope. We will lose everything if we try to stay where we are, regardless how far we’ve come.
At Navajo, New Mexico, there were towering Red cliffs along the eastern side of town. My brothers and I loved to climb around on them and hike up Fuzzy Mountain. From time to time, I would find a place where I lacked confidence in my ability to climb a spot. Sometimes getting in such positions scared me, and I had to just stop and get my fear under control so I could finish my climb.
Trying to climb in the clutch of that fear distorted my judgment, and paralyzed me. Once I had my fear under control, I could make valid judgments, which restored my confidence. I could then enjoy my climb again. The more I climbed, the easier it became to control that fear, and enjoy the climbing. While the fear was entirely reasonable and legitimate, uncontrolled fear would result in paralysis and possibly injury or death.
What appears impossible to the inexperienced rock climber is not even a challenge for the expert. He knows his ability and strength. He knows his goals, and he trusts his own judgment. The novice knows none of these things, and the expert’s moves seem very foolhardy. Sometimes what God asks us to do is the same way. To the unbelievers it seems ridiculous to try. They have no idea what we have to base our actions on. God has provided for us to not give in to fear.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (II Timothy 1:7)
My brother Keith was less troubled by fear of heights than I or my younger brother. Frequently we allowed him to go first, watching carefully how he did it. His success encouraged us, and observation helped us to see things we might not have otherwise seen. Others who went with us turned away convinced it was a waste of time, but our observations never failed to make it possible for us to get there. Paul is setting an example for Timothy to follow, demonstrating that success is possible. By following the same path, he can succeed but it will require going through the same afflictions.
“Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.” (II Timothy 1:8-11)
We do not face these afflictions alone, but in the power of God. He provided salvation, not because of what we did but for his own purposes, and had made all the arrangements before the world was created, although it was not revealed until Christ came. Paul was appointed to minister to those who were not Jews. It was essential he accomplish the task if he was to do what he had been called for.
“For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.” (II Timothy 1:12)
Paul’s efforts are based on faith in God. Even should he appear to fail, God will have recorded his efforts and will not forget. This is what Jesus promised in Matthew 16:24-27. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
We took some other boys climbing. One of them gave way to panic in a spot where it was difficult to get to him. By placing myself between him and the drop off I was finally able to convince him that he wouldn’t fall as long as I was there. Had he not trusted me and controlled his fear, sooner or later his grip would have given way and he would have fallen. The very effort to preserve his life would have been fatal. He had to take the risk to survive.
The same is true with our eternity. Unless we are willing to trust Christ to preserve us, there is no hope. We will lose everything if we try to stay where we are, regardless how far we’ve come.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
A Personal Faith
II Timothy 1:1-7
II Timothy is written to a young man who is planning on going into the ministry. Paul writes as a father or dear friend, advising on the things which Timothy will need to do to prepare himself for ministry. It actually predates I Timothy, which describes what will be required to fulfill his responsibilities in his first solo ministry. Paul leaves no question who he is is or who he is addressing.
“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” (II Timothy 1:1-2)
Several years ago, a woman who attended our church described meeting a woman who had just obtained her citizenship and was very excited because now she was a Christian. She didn’t understand that being an American and being Christian were in no way related. Although many Christian principles are found in the constitution, they do not make one a Christian.
In the ‘Bible Belt’, one finds many who claim to be Christians because their ancestors were. Some will tell you they are Baptist because their Grandfather was, although they have no understanding what Baptists, or Christians actually believe. I understand that it is a common attitude among many Europeans as well.
Historically, a carpenter taught his son to be a carpenter, a banker taught his son to be a banker, and tailor taught his son to be a tailor. Despite the freedom to choose one’s own vocation, athletes tend to have children who are athletes, plumber’s sons tend to become plumbers, and banker’s children tend to associate with financial matters. They are not forced to but their background provides a strong basis for following that type of occupation.
Despite the tendency to follow their parents occupation, growing up in a plumber’s home does not make the son a plumber, nor a banker’s son a banker. He still has to choose to become a plumber or banker, and demonstrate the qualifications and skills to become a plumber or banker. In the same way, a Christian background may encourage one to become a Christian but it does not make one a Christian. A person must decide whether he will do what is necessary to be a Christian for himself.
That Timothy is considering a life of ministry is a cause for rejoicing. Like Paul, Timothy has a background of serving God, specifically as exemplified in his grandmother and mother. There is no doubt of the reality of their faith.
“I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; 2ti 1:4 Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.” (II Timothy 1:3-5)
Paul believes that Timothy has the same kind of faith as his mother and grand mother. Without the same faith himself, he will never attain to the ministry. His parents’ faith will not suffice. It will be necessary to have his own faith, and to allow the Holy Spirit’s working in his own life. The power and ability comes from God, not from our forbearers.
“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” ( II Timothy 1:6-7)
God ‘s gift did not include an attitude of fear. I John 4:18 stresses that a sound mature love for Christ will eliminate fear. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” Instead, there will be a power in our witnessing and work. Acts 1:8 states, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Matthew 28:19-20 makes it clear that that power is the basis of our witnessing. It will produce a confidence in what we are telling others.
He has also given us an attitude of love. That attitude is characteristic of those who know God. “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love,” (I John 4:7-8). That love is described in I Corinthians 13:4-7. “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.”
He also gives a sound mind, one capable of making intelligent decisions. While we accept God’s claims by faith, we have logical reasons for doing so. It is not blind faith. In Deuteronomy 18:20-22 God gave two specific tests for whether they were to believe a preacher or speaker. “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.”
Our mind came from God. When he is allowed control, it will lead to wise decisions Proverbs 3:5-7 instructs, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.” As I Corinthians 2:16 says, “We have the mind of Christ” if we are in him.
These things don't benefit us if they are only in someone else's life.
II Timothy is written to a young man who is planning on going into the ministry. Paul writes as a father or dear friend, advising on the things which Timothy will need to do to prepare himself for ministry. It actually predates I Timothy, which describes what will be required to fulfill his responsibilities in his first solo ministry. Paul leaves no question who he is is or who he is addressing.
“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” (II Timothy 1:1-2)
Several years ago, a woman who attended our church described meeting a woman who had just obtained her citizenship and was very excited because now she was a Christian. She didn’t understand that being an American and being Christian were in no way related. Although many Christian principles are found in the constitution, they do not make one a Christian.
In the ‘Bible Belt’, one finds many who claim to be Christians because their ancestors were. Some will tell you they are Baptist because their Grandfather was, although they have no understanding what Baptists, or Christians actually believe. I understand that it is a common attitude among many Europeans as well.
Historically, a carpenter taught his son to be a carpenter, a banker taught his son to be a banker, and tailor taught his son to be a tailor. Despite the freedom to choose one’s own vocation, athletes tend to have children who are athletes, plumber’s sons tend to become plumbers, and banker’s children tend to associate with financial matters. They are not forced to but their background provides a strong basis for following that type of occupation.
Despite the tendency to follow their parents occupation, growing up in a plumber’s home does not make the son a plumber, nor a banker’s son a banker. He still has to choose to become a plumber or banker, and demonstrate the qualifications and skills to become a plumber or banker. In the same way, a Christian background may encourage one to become a Christian but it does not make one a Christian. A person must decide whether he will do what is necessary to be a Christian for himself.
That Timothy is considering a life of ministry is a cause for rejoicing. Like Paul, Timothy has a background of serving God, specifically as exemplified in his grandmother and mother. There is no doubt of the reality of their faith.
“I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; 2ti 1:4 Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.” (II Timothy 1:3-5)
Paul believes that Timothy has the same kind of faith as his mother and grand mother. Without the same faith himself, he will never attain to the ministry. His parents’ faith will not suffice. It will be necessary to have his own faith, and to allow the Holy Spirit’s working in his own life. The power and ability comes from God, not from our forbearers.
“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” ( II Timothy 1:6-7)
God ‘s gift did not include an attitude of fear. I John 4:18 stresses that a sound mature love for Christ will eliminate fear. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” Instead, there will be a power in our witnessing and work. Acts 1:8 states, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Matthew 28:19-20 makes it clear that that power is the basis of our witnessing. It will produce a confidence in what we are telling others.
He has also given us an attitude of love. That attitude is characteristic of those who know God. “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love,” (I John 4:7-8). That love is described in I Corinthians 13:4-7. “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.”
He also gives a sound mind, one capable of making intelligent decisions. While we accept God’s claims by faith, we have logical reasons for doing so. It is not blind faith. In Deuteronomy 18:20-22 God gave two specific tests for whether they were to believe a preacher or speaker. “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.”
Our mind came from God. When he is allowed control, it will lead to wise decisions Proverbs 3:5-7 instructs, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.” As I Corinthians 2:16 says, “We have the mind of Christ” if we are in him.
These things don't benefit us if they are only in someone else's life.
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