But Seek First His Kingdom

I was trying to gain an understanding of the meaning of Matthew 6:33 apart from (or maybe including) other interpretations of it, as is the case for me with a lot of scripture, especially well-known verses.  My issue is with the common interpretation of this verse that has resulted in the importance of a religious practice that has seemingly taken precedence over the Word itself. 

Verse 33 and 34 of Matthew six is a conclusion of the previous eight verses spoken by Jesus, so in order to gain an understanding; we have to include them as well.  Jesus explains that worrying is futile -even about essential things, such as food and clothing.  And Jesus concludes that the needs of those who seek God before seeking these things will be met.  Jesus positions ‘things’ as secondary after the primary God, and the extension of God:  His kingdom and righteousness. 

seek- [trans. v.] 1. to resort; go to 2. search; look for 3. to try to discover; ask for: request 4. to try to acquire or gain (m-w.com).

first- [adj.] proceeding all others in time, order, or importance; earliest (m-w.com).

Concerning God’s kingdom, Jesus has said that God’s kingdom dwells within the individual believer (Lk 17:21).  The NIV study Bible commentary on Matthew 6:10 (‘The Lord’s Prayer’) explains that to ‘come’ isn’t in the sense of God’s kingdom not existing, because it’s already here (see Lk 17:21).  But it means to ‘come’ more and more completely until it’s full and final consummation.  God’s kingdom is birthed within the believer after they believe and confess (Ro 10:9).  And it is revealed more and more through the continued maturation of the working out of their salvation (Php 2:12-13). God’s kingdom is defined as the reign of God that is brought about through Jesus Christ –i.e. the establishment of God’s rule in the hearts and lives of his people, the overcoming of all the forces of evil, the removal from the world of all consequences of sin –including death and all that diminishes life- and a creation of a new order of righteousness and peace (NIV study Bible note on Mt 3:2).  

Many people insist that this means we must pray in the morning.  And I’m not saying that this interpretation and practice is wrong.  What I’m saying is that an understanding of Mt 6:33 isn’t limited by this interpretation.  Just as the four gospels give four different takes on the same life and events, it’s also possible for us to see things differently and all still be correct.  Based on the previous definitions and scripture seeking God first can be expressed in various ways in the life of a Christian (studying God’s word in the morning, praying over a situation before acting on it, seeking the wise counsel of God’s word before turning to anyone or anything else, etc.).  There are many instances in the Bible where the Lord speaks very plainly (Ex 20:1-17; Mal 2:16; 2Co 6:14-18), and I think that if this was as simple as merely praying in the morning, Jesus would just said, Pray in the morning.    

It’s always good for people to make God’s Word personal, seek revelation on it, and apply it to their lives.  However when, in pride, we attempt to validate our interpretation or understanding by presenting them as gospel, we get into a dangerous way of thinking called legalism, which will prevent God’s us from gaining a true relationship with him, as evidenced by the fault-finding Pharisees and Sadducees in the New Testament.  It’s always important to keep things in proper perspective.  And as Jesus said, all ‘things’ (to include our ideas, interpretations, and religious practices) have their proper place after God’s way, his kingdom and righteousness.         

Merry Christmas!

I love providing commentary with the help of the Holy Spirit, but sometimes it’s necessary to just let the word stand on it’s own.  And considering all of the confusion of the holiday season (to include the origins of the Christmas holiday), I think it’s safe to say that this is one of those times.

God bless this day, universally recognized as the day set aside to recognize the birth of Jesus.

            Merry Christmas everyone! 

 

            “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”  

            And all this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:  “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel –which means, ‘God with us.” (Mt 1:21-23)

            In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was with God in the beginning.

            Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.  In him was life, and that life was the light of men.  The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.

            He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.  He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.  Yet to all who receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. (Jn 1:1-5, 10-13)

 

 

               

...Because of Me

Okay, I really need someone to feel me on this one.  And I know it to be true, because I’ve experienced it quite a few times and often recently, but people will often hate the Jesus in you (even if you have not expressly stated that you are Christian) (Mt 10:22). 

In America, the insults, persecution, and lies that Christians often face are relatively harmless, and are only dangerous on a social level, so for those of us who have survived adolescence, dealing with it should be a piece of cake (1 Pe 3:17).  But knowing scripture lets us know how to respond when we are tested in this: 

• First of all, we shouldn’t be surprised by it.  Jesus said very plainly that men will hate us because of him (Mt 10:22).  We are just visiting after all (1 Pe 4:12).   We’re a peculiar people (1 Pe 2:9 KJV). People of the world don’t understand why we bless when we’re cursed, why we are hopeful, why we don’t lie to make life ‘easier’ for ourselves, etc.  
• Secondly, we’re never fear the world (Mt 10:28).
• Thirdly, not that we should deny everyone else, but Christians are to encourage one another (Mt 28:19-20; 1 Pe 3:8; Heb 10:25; 1 Th 3:2’ 4:18; 5:11)      
• And fourth, and best of all, we’re blessed (Mt 5:11-12)!

So, just pray for the haters y’all (Mt 5:44).

Take It Personally

I find myself relating with a lot of the people in the Bible, in one way or another. For those who value God’s word, and try to follow it, they often find their experiences mirroring those of the people in the Bible.

I, Michael, can definitely be overzealous -like Peter or Paul- speaking or acting on misdirected good intentions, and God has to set me straight (Mt 26:51-52; Mk 14:27-31; Ac 9:1-19; Php 3:5-6).

Often times I’m like Jacob wrestling to gain an understanding of God’s word and his desire for me in my life (and won’t let go until he blesses me!) (Ge 32:222-32).

A lot of the time, I find myself like I’m like Jesus, Abel, Stephen, the Apostles, and anyone else who’s persecuted for doing what’s right (Ge 4:1-8; Mt 26:1-5; 14-16; 47-68; 27:11-41; Ac 5:17-42; 6:8-15; 7:54-60).

But thank God I’m also like anyone who’s about their father’s business and follows Christ.  Yes I’m insulted and persecuted, but I’m also blessed (Mt 5:11-12; Lk 2:49)!

Although I’m not perfect, through Jesus Christ, God has declared me (and Paul) righteous (Ro 5:19).  I’m thankful that I can testify, like David, that the Lord has -so far- delighted in my way and has made my steps firm.  And though I often stumble, he’s upheld me with his hand, not allowing me to fall (Ps 37:23-24).  Thank you Lord!    

When I marvel at God’s love, grace and mercy, I ask –like David- ‘What is man that you are mindful of him?’ (Ps 8:4).  And so on, and so on…..

   

Be Blessed

Okay, right as I’m leaving the house tonight to go to a lab and type this, I’m tested on what the Holy Spirit had revealed should be my topic for this week’s post.  One of my teenage neighbors is leaning on my car -as if it’s his own- and when one of his friends jokingly suggests he show more respect, he gives a pretty nasty response.  I was put off by his actions, but thank God I chose to pray for him (and myself) instead of thinking badly of him or cursing him, even in my mind.  Now, being honest, this is not to say that it couldn’t have gone the other way -because God is still working on me- but I can thank God I can testify that I’m not where I was.  The Holy Spirit held my tongue.  Because of my yielding to God’s word, it was him who handled the situation, not Michael.  Thank you Lord!

The way we choose to respond to the provocation, snares, plots, schemes, etc. of those who oppose us determines whether, or not, we’re blessed:

1.    Jesus tells us, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Lk 6:27-28; Ro 12:14).  Please keep in mind that this is a command, not a request.  So try to live, so that you can also testify that when you’re cursed, you bless; when you’re persecuted, you endure it; when you’re slandered, you answer kindly. (1 Co 4:12-13)   

2.    Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice, or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from him (Pr 24:17-18).  First of all, let me point out that it says, ‘when your enemy falls’, not if (2 Pe 3:9-10; Pr 29:6).  But in these verses what’s suggested is that God will give you the punishment reserved for the sinner if you rejoice in his punishment, as he did with Edom (see Ps 137:7; Eze 35:15).  Those of us who know better are held to a higher standard.

3.    God is omniscient.  He already knows about your enemy and all that he’s doing and saying, whether it’s to your face or behind your back (Ps 147:5; Job 28:24; Heb 4:13).  For those of us who trust in God, in the shelter of his presence he hides us from the intrigues of men; in his dwelling he keeps us safe form accusing tongues (Ps 31:20).  But he wants to hear from us too.  He wants us to share all of our thoughts about what we’re dealing with, the good, the bad, and the ugly (Ps 8:3; 62:8).  He’s God.  He can take it!

4.    Jesus said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.  Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Mt 5:11-12; Lk 6:22-23).  Things are almost never as they appear to be.  Although it may look like a follower of Christ is cursed, they are indeed blessed.  And it’s not because I say so, but Jesus Christ himself says so!  Notice that it’s the Jesus in a person that guarantees this blessing (see post titled “In Jesus’ Name”).  See to it that when you’re treated poorly that it’s because of Jesus, not because of any wrongdoing on your part. 

…God doesn’t promise any blessing for that.

   

From Sunday to Sunday

Sunday: (Palm Sunday)

1.    ‘The Triumphal Entry’, in Jerusalem (Mt 21:1-11; Mk 11:1-10; Lk 19:29-44; Jn 12:12-19)

·         This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:  “Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’ (Mt 21:4-5)

Monday: 

1.    Jesus curses the fruitless fig tree, pronouncing immediate judgment. (Mt 21:19-22; Mk 11:12-14)

·         “…have faith and do not doubt…” (Mt 21:21)

2.    In the temple Jesus drives out the money changers and heals the blind and lame. (Mt 21:12-17; Mk 11:15-18)

·         But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David,’ they were indignant. (Mt 21:15)

Tuesday:

1.    The authority of Jesus is questioned. (Mt 21:23-27; Mk 12:27-33; Lk 20:1-8)

·         Jesus replied, “I will also ask you one question.  If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” (Mt 21:24)

(Jesus continues to teach. Mt 21:28-45; 22-25; Mk 12-13; Lk 20:9-47; 21)

2.    Jesus is anointed by Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus, in Bethany (Mt 26:6-13; Mk 14:3-9; Lk Jn 12:2-11)

·         Aware of this, Jesus said to them, “Why are you bothering this woman?  She has done a beautiful thing to me.” (Mt 26:10)

Wednesday:

1.    Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus. (Mt 26:14—16; Mk 14:10-11; Lk 22:3-6)

·         ‘What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?’ (Mt 26:15)

Thursday: (Passover observed)

1.    ‘The Last/Lord’s Supper’ (Mt 26:17-30; Mk 14:12-25; Lk 22:7-20: Jn 13:1-38)

·         “I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father’s kingdom.” (Mt 26:29)

2.    Jesus comforts and encourages his disciples. (Jn 14-16:33)

·         “All this I have spoken while still with you.  But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.  Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (Jn 14:25-27)

3.    Jesus prays at on the Mount of Olives, Gethsemane (Mt 26:36-46; Mk 14:32-42; Lk 22:40-46)

·         “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.” (Mt 26:38)

           “My father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me.  Yet not as I     will, but as you will.” (v. 39)  

4.    Jesus is arrested. (Mt 26:47-56; Mk 14:43-52; Lk 22:47-53; Jn 18:1-11)

·         “Friend, do what you came for.” (Mt 26:50)

5.    Jesus is brought to trial (before the Sanhedrin, then Pilate and Herod, form Thursday night to Friday morning). (Mt 26:57-68; 27:11-26; Mk 14:53-65; 15:1-15; Lk 22:66-23:25; Jn 18:19-24, 24-40)

·         “Yes, it is as you say,” Jesus replied.  “But I say to you:  In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” (Mt 26:64)   

Friday: (Good Friday)

1.    Jesus is mocked and crucified, at Golgotha (Mt 27:27-44; Mk 15:16-32; Lk 23:26-43; Jn 19:17-27)

·         ‘You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself!  Come down from the cross if you are the Son of God!’ (Mt 27:40)

2.    Jesus gives up his life and dies. (Mt 27:45-56; Mk 15:33-41; Lk 23:44-49; Jn 19:28-37)

·         “Father into your hands I commit my spirit.”  When he had said this, he breathed his last. (Lk 23:46)

3.    Jesus is buried. (Mt 27:57-65; Mk 15:42-47: Lk 50-56; Jn 19:38-42)

·         Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock.  He rolled a big stone in front of  the entrance to the tomb and went away. (Mt 27:59-60)

Sunday: (Easter)

1.    Jesus defeats death and is resurrected! (Mt 28:1-20: Mk 16:1-20: Lk 24:1-12; Jn 20:1-31)

·         ‘Don’t be alarmed,’ he said. ‘You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified.  He has risen!’ (Mk 16:6)

Grace, Pt. 2

I had just a few additional words to add to the topic of grace.  I had too many notes left, and felt I wasn’t quite finished anyway. 

To further elaborate on the definition of grace, Romans 11:6 tells us, ‘And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace’.  We see that grace is directly opposed to works, so that it cannot be earned.  It’s not a wage, but a gift that must be accepted (2 Co 6:1).  And with the gift of grace, specific gifts come with it, the most notable being salvation (Eph 2:6, 8-10).  Justification through Jesus Christ our Savior is a gift imparted by grace (Tit 3:7).  Peace of mind in the presence of religious legalism is a gift of grace (Heb 13:9).  Growing is to be done in grace (2 Pe 3:18).  And although it cannot be earned, we learn that grace is given to the humble (Jas 4:6).

Grace is from God alone, through Christ Jesus (Lk 2:40; 1 Co 1:4; 2 Th 2:16; 2 Ti 1:9).  Paul testified that it was  by grace that he was what he was, and it was the grace of God working in him that brought about all that he’d accomplished (1 Co 15:10).  Jesus -our high priest- has lived this life that we struggle to stay right and get right in.  And he’s not unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but Jesus himself had been tempted in every way just as we are (Remember, temptation isn’t sin; yielding to it is.) –yet was without sin (Heb 4:14-15).  So, we are encouraged to approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need (v. 16).  Thank you Lord!              

Grace, Pt.1

First of all, my apologies to anyone who may’ve missed my Friday post.  I wasn’t even able to think straight because I was suffering from a viral infection complete with fever, headache, body aches, and loss of appetite (and if you know me, you know it’s serious then).  But I’m -at least- back to blogging health!

I can’t even put into words yet, how these past five days have been.  I’m still trying to evaluate it myself.  But the Holy Spirit has put in the forefront of my mind the value of grace, which is commonly defined as unmerited favor by Christians.  Merriam-Webster’s definition, in the context of biblical scripture, is unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration and sanctification; a virtue coming from God; a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace; approval; favor; privilege.

To receive God’s grace is so humbling.  In fact, God gives grace to the humble 9Pr 3:34).  Not the perfect, but the humble.  Paul boasted in God’s wisdom to afflict him with a thorn in his flesh along with the revelations he’d given to keep him humble (2 Co 12:7-10).  The nature of his affliction of the flesh was unknown, so we can find ourselves here.  God gives a better solution than removing the thorn:  for him to show himself strong in people’s lives despite their weaknesses.  The absolute best example is Christ’s sacrificial death on Calvary and resurrection (Lk 22:41-44; 23:26-24:35).

Paul says something so striking in Acts 20:24, and I second it: ‘…I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace’.  Or as the Michael A. Jones version goes, ‘My life wouldn’t have meant nothin’ unless I did as God told me to do, through his Word, by living a life that testifies to the gospel of his grace, which has shown that although I was messed up, God was still able to use me!’  As much as Paul had been blessed with, he also had his weaknesses, which kept him humble and fully aware that it was all God who was working in him, and not himself. 

Without grace there would be no hope.  We’d be subject to the law of sin which results in death (Ro 8:1-2).  The law was given, not to bring about redemption, but to point out the need for it, which is only offered through Jesus Christ (Jn 14:6; Ro 5:20-21, and NIV note).  The Bible tells us to be careful of taking advantage of grace.  Don’t be deceived.  God cannot be mocked.  But grace should be our motivation to obey God in love (Ro 6:1-15; Gal 6:7).

Not to deny the reality and the goodness of justice, but grace is the cornerstone of the Christian faith.  Without it, there is no hope, no faith, no Christianity.  So I conclude with these parting words John wrote until Christ’s return, ‘the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.’ (Rev 22:21)       

  

And the Second Is Like It...

And the second greatest commandment is like the first, “Love your neighbor as yourself”, Jesus says (Mt 22:39; Mk 12:31) (And this love for self is also shown in the context of a marriage union in Eph 5:28-30, where the love for a spouse is equal -on some level- as love for self, since the two have become one.).  Jesus tells us, “love one another as I have loved you…” (Jn 13:34).  (He said this was a new commandment, but it was actually an old one [Lev 19:18].  It was new in the sense that it was a mark of the disciple’s bond created by Christ’s love for them [NIV note on Jn 13:34].)  We love because God first loved us (1 Jn 4:19).  Love ultimately comes from God himself. If anyone says, ‘I love God’, but hates his brother is a liar; because anyone who doesn’t love his brother, who he has seen, cannot love God, who he hasn’t seen.  So God has given us this command:  Whoever loves God must also love his brother (1 Jn 4:20-21).  Here, the term ‘brother’ is intended to mean mankind, not simply our siblings in Christ. But those who are followers of Christ should especially care for our brothers and sisters in Christ (Jn 21:15-17; Gal 6:10).       

The parable of ‘the Good Samaritan’ illustrates this love well, and shows us who we are to regard as our neighbor.  In the presence of so-called lovers of God, Jesus commends a Samaritan –a people who Jews were openly hostile against and considered both spiritual and physical half-breeds- over a religious leader (priest) and another lay person (Levite) to show that love has no national, religious, racial, etc. boundaries (Mt 10:5; Jn 4:20,22; Lk 9:52; NIV note on Lk 10:31-33).  It was this despised Samaritan who cared for a foreigner -who would’ve probably cursed him, if he had the strength (v. 33-35).  It was him who Jesus told his fellow Jews to imitate (v. 36-37).  So, my definition of a neighbor, given the context, is anyone who isn’t you!

And again, this is a commandment from God.  To show love towards men, who were made in His spiritual image, is one way of showing love for him (which remember, is second only to directly showing love to God).  This is true, just as failing to love our brothers is to show contempt for Him.  If you follow the first and greatest commandment, the second -which is like it- will fall into place.  Love for God and love for man are inseparable.        

  

The Greatest Commandment

Jesus said, the first and greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with everything you’ve got, with everything that you are, with your entire being (all your heart, soul, mind and strength; Dt 6:5; Mt 2337; Mk 12:29-30).  Here, the heart represents an individual’s will and desire (Ex 25:2; 1 Sa 13:4; Lk 6:45).  The soul is our true self (our immortal being, while the body is merely a temporary shell (Mt 10:28 and NIV note).  The mind encompasses our complete mental faculty: memory, perception, reasoning, opinions, views, disposition, and mood (m-w.com).  And our strength is our power to resist, our attributes or inherent assets, our ability, energy, might, and vigor (m-w.com; 1 Co 10:13; 16:13; Isa 40:31).  God wants it all!       

It was necessary for Jesus to fulfill all that had been previously taught to Israel (the Law of the Prophets, which is the Old Testament in its entirety) by making clear its full meaning.  To fulfill means to measure up to, convert into reality, and develop the full potentialities of (m-w.com).   Jesus did this by emphasizing the deep underlying principles of the law and total commitment to it rather than mere external acknowledgement and obedience (NIV note on Mt 5:17). 

It’s this commandment to love God with our all –along with the second greatest commandment- that the Law of the Prophets hangs on (Mt 22:40.)  The love shown here, to the Lord our God, is primarily in view of the love shown by a subject to a king, because to truly love God is to be his loyal and obedient servant (NIV note on Dt 6:5).  God, our king, requires complete devotion and honor.  He commands us:  not to put anything before him, not to form any idol(s), and not to misuse his name (Ex 20:3-7).         

Our love for God will be evidenced by a life that’s characterized by service to him; the perfect example being the life lived by Jesus Christ.  However, we are to offer ourselves as living sacrifices (Ro 12:1).       

Binding and Loosening

My purpose in researching this topic was as most people see it: as a way to divinely, and selfishly get my own way (Lord forgive me.), but after reading up on the ability to bind and loose, I’ve put it in Jesus’ intended context that he originally spoke on.

Jesus Christ himself has given us the power to bind (to make secure, refine, constrain, fast or tie together, take up and hold, protect, strengthen, hamper free movement of) and loose (antonym of bind; to free from restraint, etc.).  Although Jesus’ proclamation that the physical manifestation his church would be established by Peter does not apply to us, he has given us –as believers- the ability to bind and loose as well (Mt 16:19; 18:18).  Jesus said, ‘I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven’.  When we speech, actions, thoughts line up with the Word of God, which is the Holy Bible, heaven co-signs it!   But this is not an authority to determine, but the authority to announce (guilt or innocence according to his Word) (NIV note Mt 16:19). 

For proper context, in Matthew 18:15-20 Jesus instructs us on how to properly address a brother or sister who has sinned.  It refers to disciplinary action that should be taken when they:  1) have failed to listen to the single person who’s brought the issue to them in secret 2) have failed to listen to the one, plus two others who have again –approached this person who has sinned- in a discrete manner 3) and lastly, have failed to listen to the three, plus the church now!  If they are so far gone, Jesus tells us to treat them as the despised, pagans and tax collectors (basis for excommunication; see also 1 Co 5:1-13) (Mt 18:15-17).  What Jesus is promising here is his presence and guidance when such sensitive, crucial decisions to are being made to discipline an immoral brother or sister (They are proven immoral as evidenced by their decision not to listen to the reason of those who are speaking and acting according to God’s word.) (Mt 18:19-20).      

Once again, that wasn’t even where I planned to go with that, but I’m just being obedient to the Holy Spirit.  There it is.

Have Nothing to Do With Them

We are all called to be holy and sanctified.  But if perfection was the criteria for whom God allowed us to associate with, then we’d truly be islands, not dealing with anyone.  (Furthermore, how estranged would we be from a holy God himself?) So, I believe that the instruction not to have anything to do with people who are:  lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, and lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God should be understood as being indicative of the very character of that individual (2 Tim 3:1-5).  I believe that if the overall tenor of a person’s life is marked by sin -if it doesn’t surprise you that they’ve chosen to do wrong, as opposed to right- then these are the people the Word is referring to.  These are the people we should have nothing to do with. 

To some extent, I’ve found myself in the previous description.  I can work on being more self-controlled.  I have moments of pride.  And unfortunately, there have been times when I’ve put my own pleasure first.  But my life is not characterized by these instances of failing to meet the mark.    

The Bible tells us how to further indentify these people we’re to distance ourselves from.  They seemingly lead a life that is good and holy, with a reverence for God, but they lack the power of one who does (2 Tim 3:5; NIV note on 1 Tim 2:2).  They take advantage of people’s weaknesses (v.6-7). And they oppose the truth of God’s word (v. 8).  But the Bible also lets us know that they won’t get very far, because their folly (lack of good sense, prudence, or foresight) will be clear to everyone (v. 9).  God’s not trying to deny us anything, but it’s plain to see that he wants to save us from suffering the same fate as these people because surely bad company corrupts good character (1 Co 15:33).

Similarly, these people who do not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God (the word ‘retain’ is used here because the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men [Tit 2:11]), not only continue to do these things -become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity, are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice, are gossipers, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil, they disobey their parents; they’re senseless, faithless, heartless, and ruthless- but they approve of those who practice them as well (Ro 1:28-32)! 

The Bible tells us that these people deserve death (v. 32).  But thank God, he’s loved us enough to provide us with a way out if we’re ever so caught out there that we’re given over to a mind such as this (v. 28; Jn 3:16).  Jesus Christ (our way out!) who’s given the ransom for our lives, so that we can be restored into right standing with God has offered his blameless, unblemished, perfect life for ours (Mk 10:45; Ro 5:10; 10:9; 1 Co 15:56-57; 2 Co 5:21).  Through him we have the opportunity to cheat death (Rev 12:11).  All YOU need to do is accept the gift of salvation offered, by confessing that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead and you will be saved (Ro 10:9).  No, you won’t be perfect, but you will be saved.          

What Makes A Church?

There are many ideas of what constitutes a church, but it’s defined exclusively by the word of God.  Many believe it’s the structure where believers worship.  And although a place of worship is important, it does not define a church (1Chr 17:1-15).  When a structure is built for the purpose of worship, it has to be sanctified.  And the building is then desanctified for common use before it is sold, or before it is demolished.  The two ceremonies usually involve a gathering of the congregation and includes a prayer.  In the Old Testament the presence of Lord dwelled in tabernacles and tents, and on items deemed holy.  And God gave strict (consequence of death) instruction of care of them (Nu 1:51; 4:15).  In the New Testament the Lord dwelled among men (Jn 1:14).  And finally Jesus gave the believer the ability to be indwelt by the Lord upon accepting him as Lord and Savior (Eph 2:19-22; Col 2:9-10; Jn 14:23, 26).    

The church is illustrated as a body, with Jesus being the head (Col 1:18, 24).  Just as a headless body cannot live, neither can an assembled people that don’t collectively recognize the character, essence, authority, and the word of God.  The church is also illustrated as the bride of Jesus, who -in love- has given his very life for her (Eph 5:23-27).  Just as we recognize a tree by its fruits, a church is recognized by an adherence to God’s word (Lk 6:44).  While it’s true the church is made up of imperfect people who err, the essential character of the that assembled body should be defined by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, and truth according to the Word (Gal 5:22; Jn 4:24).  And just as individual believers are to repent for their wrongdoing, it’s my belief that individual bodies, and the universal church should as well -where it is applicable (Mt 3:2).  It is my prayer that we strive to be holy, as God is holy, for it is our charge (1 Pe 1:16).  Let’s stay right, where we are right, and get right where we’re not.

Although individual churches may vary in interpretation of disputable matters, we should ‘make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace’ and at least agree that ‘there is one body and one Spirit’…’one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father…’ (Ro 14; Eph 4:3-6)

In Jesus' Name

We must first realize that the concept of name in scripture involves much more than a tag that identifies that person and distinguishes him or her from other people.  And, although it does do that, it also has a much deeper meaning.  Name in scripture represents the very essence of the person.  A person’s personality, character, reputation and authority are all wrapped up in their name (Reagan, learnthebible.org).  That is why God’s name is so often exalted in scripture.  His name is a declaration of the greatness of His person (Reagan) (Ps 8:1; 103:1; 113:1-3; 148:13).  And since God’s name is excellent, we are to exalt it in our prayer, our praise, and in the act of offering ourselves as living sacrifices everyday (Reagan) (Ro 12:1).

We know that Jesus was God’s living word made flesh, so to do anything in Jesus’ name is to do so according to God’s word, which is the Holy Bible (Jn 1:1-2, 14).  The Holy Bible is the personality, character, reputation, essence, and authority of our Lord God.  When David fought and defeated Goliath he proceeded under the direction, power and authority of the ‘name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel’ who Goliath had defied.  David didn’t take Goliath’s head.  It was handed over by God (1 Sam 17:45-46)!  Although God’s word hadn’t yet been made flesh, David still had direction, power and authority based on the word of the Lord.   

But now, we can only come to God by Jesus (Jn 14:6).  We are accepted and become God’s children and heirs according to the name of Jesus (Eph 1:5-6; Ro 8:17).  Anything asked in line with Jesus’ name will be granted (Jn 14:13-14; 15:16; 16:23, 26).  Again, this isn’t simply a prayer that mentions Jesus’ name but prayer in accordance with all that Jesus is –his personality and character.  It is a prayer aimed at carrying forward the work he did, a prayer that he would answer (Jn 14:13 NIV note).  (WARNING:  This is not a magical way to get your way with God!  Pray with sincerity of heart [Heb 10:22]!  Misuse or failure to honor the name of God is blasphemy!)              

Racism

It is so necessary to approach God’s word with a spirit of sincerity, desiring the truth, and to pray for spiritual discernment in this, because it blows my mind how much people distort biblical scripture in order to fit their own prideful and selfish ideas (Jn 4:24).  Racist Christians –a contradiction in terms- is a practice that has been accepted for far too long.   We need to be careful not to align ourselves with others (e.g. the Ku Klux Klan) who preach the hatred of racism based on a perversion of God’s word.  Racism is defined as a belief that race (a class or kind of people unified by shared interests, habits, or characteristics; a category of humankind that shares certain distinctive physical traits) is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent  superiority of a particular race; and is also defined as racial prejudice or discrimination. 

So, what appeared to be what we know as racism today, in the Old Testament was no more than God demanding absolute spiritual devotion from his people.  Before God’s word was preached to the Gentile people, everything associated with them (their shared interests, habits, characteristics) was, in fact, sinful and spiritually unclean because they didn’t recognize God (1 Sam 17:26).  Their beliefs were at issue, not physical characteristics.  This is why interfaith marriage, then and now,  is considered detestable to God.  We’re told to not be joined together with unbelievers because righteousness and wickedness have nothing in common (2 Co 6:14).  There is no fellowship.  There is no harmony (v.14-15).  Again, the issue here is belief.  When the Canaanite, Hittite, Perizzite, etc. races (meaning nations or peoples) are spoken about negatively, it is because of their detestable practices (Ezra 9:1).  The people of Israel -God’s people- were identified as ‘the holy race’ because they were believers of God’s word (v.2).  It was their belief that justified them as a people, not their nationality, skin tone, native tongue, or any other superficial characteristic.  Again, God’s concern was that their mingling with foreign people eventually would lead them into unfaithfulness, and it did (v.2; Neh 13:27).        

A strict adherence to Mosaic Law, and cultural practices associated with it laid the foundation of the faith that would later be clarified -not abolished- by Jesus Christ’s teaching of grace in the Gospel (Mt 5:17).  God does not show favoritism, but accepts people from anywhere  that revere him and do what’s right (Ac 10:34-35; Ro 2:9-11; 10:9-13).  And since we’re to be like God, we’re told not to show favoritism as well (1 Pe 1:16; Jas 2:1-13).  If we do, we sin (Jas 2:9).  Don’t be like one of the experts of the Law who wanted to justify his own racist views (Lk 10:29).  Like the good Samaritan, we’re to treat our others as ourselves (Lk 10:25-37).  This is our charge:  to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything Jesus Christ has commanded us, according to God’s word, which is the Holy Bible (Mt 28:19-20; Jn 1:1-2, 14).       

Be Encouraged

Encouragement plays such a big part in the walk of one trying to follow Christ.  In fact, it’s absolutely essential.  Throughout the Bible, we ourselves are not only encouraged by God’s word, but charged to encourage one another as well (Tit 2:15; Isa 1:17; Eph 6:22; Col 4:8).  The writer (who we believe to be Paul) of Hebrews was divinely inspired by God to pen these words, ‘…(E)ncourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness’ (3:13).  Here, Today is contrasted with the Day (of ultimate judgment), so we’re presented with many opportunities to admonish (which involves warning and urging, in addition to encouraging) one another in everyday that proceeds our day of judgment.  For those who trust in the Lord, the forthcoming Day is not a looming threat, but an encouragement to, not only find joy in working for the Lord, but to admonish others to share in that joy as well.  For the Christian, there is no suffered loss, whether it’s Today or the Day (Php 1:20-26).  To live is Christ and to die is gain (Php 1:21).  How’s that for encouragement?  If you’re on God’s side you win, no matter what!

There is no real encouragement outside of God’s word (2 Ti 4:2).  Any other words spoken are just flowery and deceptive, with no basis, or promise.  Be careful not to accept negative ‘encouragement’, which we’re all susceptible to (Ps 64:5).  That is why we’re encouraged to regularly meet with those who are strengthening themselves in God’s word (Heb 10:25).  Iron sharpens iron, indeed (Pr 27:17)! 

It’s not only for the prophet, the gifted, or the seemingly strong to encourage (Ac 15:32; Ro 12:8; 15:1).  We can all be an encouragement, at least in prayer.  Remember, Job in his affliction had the heart to pray for his friends (who were supposed to be an encouragement to him), and as a result of his act of faith, he was then prospered (Job 42:10)!  It’s not only for the benefit of others that we should encourage.

God is our source for all things.  Through Jesus Christ himself and God our Father we have eternal encouragement (2 Th 2:16-17).  And if -and when- we become weak, God has a ready ear to listen to our desires and our cries (Ps 10:17).  With that thought in mind, I want to encourage you to go to Him who’s not only ready to hear you, but has all the power in heaven and earth to positively affect your circumstance.              

Salvation

We’re told that we’ve all have sinned and fallen short of what God has intended us to be -as detailed in his word, which is the Holy Bible (Ro 3:23; Jn 1:1-5).  To be clear, the word all excludes no one.  And falling short of God’s word is the definition of what sin is.  Being made in God’s spiritual image, we’re intended to be like God, who is holy, righteous, just, etc. (Ge 1:26-28; 1 Sam 2:2; Ro 3:22; 2 Th 1:6).  However, after the fall of man we’re all born into sin -meaning we have the propensity to sin, not that we were born with sin (Ge 3; Ps 51:5).  And the result of sin is death, and separation from God (Ro 6:23; Isa 59:2; Hab 1:13). 

There must be a sacrifice given for sin, in order to reconcile us to God, and Jesus Christ has made that sacrifice for us (Heb 9:22; Ro 4:25; 1 Jn 2:2: Heb 10:10-18).  He was qualified because he did what no one else did, lived a perfect life, free of sin (2 Co 5:21).  And not only did he lay down his life, but he was resurrected, meaning he has victory over sin, and the death that results from it (Ro 5:8; 1 Co 15:3-4, 54-57).  And through Christ we have the same power to overcome sin and death (Ro 5: 8-10; 6:6, 23; 1Pe 3:18). 

Since salvation has been offered, it is now for us to receive it by faith in Jesus Christ (Jn 1:12; 3:16-18; 5:13).  It is only by our belief in Jesus that we receive salvation, not by our works (Eph 2:8-9; Jn 5:24).  From sin, death, and separation to righteousness, life and reconciliation we are saved (Jn 20:31; Ro 3:21-22).  People differ on what’s required for salvation:  whether, or not, it is a one time deal or the reception of salvation must be perpetual, and whether, or not, baptism, or a confession in speech, are absolutely necessary (It would be a shame if a man couldn’t be saved because he was mute, or there was a drought.) (Jn 3:5; 17:3; Ro 10:9-13).  But the one thing that all scripture, regarding salvation, has in common is belief in Jesus Christ (Lk 23:39-43; Jn 14:6).  God, being just will only hold us responsible for what we know or have been given the opportunity to know (Ro 1:20; Rev 3:20).