“And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.”
Mark 10:44
Remember, there are choices to be made everyday. Some choices are minor with few consequences. Others have major ones. The most important will always be the choice of where one will spend eternity. Next, one must choose how to live here on earth. Although Peter was a Believer, Peter was one came to a crossroad in his life. Initially, he denied Jesus. However, when given a second chance Peter fully committed to following Jesus. He is only one of many of whom we can read about in the Bible. Mark was another. Many remember that Mark left in the midst of Paul’s first missionary journey with Barnabas. When Barnabas wanted to take Mark on the second journey, Paul refused. The strife between Paul and Barnabas was so great, they separated. Paul took Silas on the second missionary journey, and we do not hear much more of Barnabas. However, we can learn more about Mark.
Mark is first mentioned in Acts when many were gathered at his mother, Mary’s, house in prayer for Peter (see Acts 12:12). We learn that Mark was related to Barnabas (see Colossians 4:10). When Paul and Barnabas began to travel preaching the Gospel message, they took John Mark (see Acts 12:25). “And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister” (Acts 13:5). Mark was to minister to Paul and Barnabas on this journey. It appears that the events that took place at Paphos caused Mark to loose courage and leave for home (see Acts 13:6-13). This is why Paul refused Barnabas’ request to take Mark on the second missionary journey. Mark had not proven himself as a faithful minister (a servant). Consider Mark’s thoughts as he quit, not remaining a faithful minister (servant) for the furthering of the Gospel message.
Time passed, and we learn a few things of what happened to Mark after his great failure. Mark is mentioned in Paul’s letters to Colosse. About twenty years had passed, and Paul was in prison. He sent a letter to the Colossians. We learn that Mark (Marcus) was still alive and actively serving Christ. “Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister’s son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)” (Colossians 4:10). Mark was with Paul, and maybe going to see the Colossians. Paul wanted them to receive Mark. Paul described Mark (Marcus) as a fellow-laborer: “Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers” (Philemon 1:24). Mark became of help to Paul. Read what Paul wrote in second Timothy: “… Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11). Not only was Paul a servant of Jesus Christ (see Romans 1:1), Paul had obviously recognized what Mark had become: a faithful servant of Jesus.
Peter, a servant of Jesus (see 2 Peter 1:1), acknowledged Mark in 1 Peter. “The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son” (1 Peter 5:13). Most believe these comments refer to the fact that Peter was the one who won Mark (Marcus) to Jesus. It also helps us recognize that Mark had proved himself as a faithful Christian in his service with Peter.
We have the witness of the two great Apostles (and servants) of Jesus (Paul and Peter) that Mark was considered profitable for the Christian ministry and was faithful for many years. However, probably the most important acknowledgment is the fact that the Holy Spirit inspired John Mark to record the book of Mark, one of the four Gospels. He was privileged to be one of the four who recorded the life of Jesus’ life here on this earth. Mark wrote primarily to the Romans presenting Jesus as a Servant. “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Mark emphasized what Jesus did more that what Jesus said. Jesus revealed He was God’s Son by the actions He did while on the earth – for He changed the world forever.
Mark is a great example of one who in spite of an early failure, did not quit the Lord and proved himself faithful to the end. When Mark was faced with a major crossroad in life (remaining with Paul on his missionary journey), he chose to turn and leave. However, when given another chance to be used by God, Mark chose to follow Christ in ministry with Paul, Peter, and in the recording of Jesus’ life. It is interesting that Mark wrote of Jesus, acknowledging Jesus as God’s Servant. Mark wrote how Jesus’ works verified His Words. He focused on the importance of what Jesus did. In those actions of Jesus, Mark helped all who read to recognize that Jesus truly is the Son of God.
It is almost as if Mark understood that actions are as important as words. He wrote what Jesus said: “And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all” (Mark 10:44). Mark recognized Jesus was a faithful servant of all. Where Mark had once failed as a servant, he learned from his failure and became a great servant for Jesus, following Jesus’ example.
Have you chosen to become a faithful servant of Jesus Christ?
Do you allow your actions as a servant of Jesus to speak louder than your words?
“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:”
1 Peter 1:7
There are choices to be made everyday. Some choices are minor with few consequences. Others have major ones. However, many people do not seriously consider the most important choice that will be made: one’s destiny after death. There are only two choices, heaven or hell. The way is clearly explained in the Bible, yet most do not take the Words to heart. Read what Jesus said: “28.… for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29. And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation” (John 5:28-29). Jesus taught them the only good work that one could do to inherit eternal life. “28. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29. Jesus answered and said unto them,This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent” (John 6:28-29). Each person is given the opportunity to make that choice. To reject or believe in Christ.
After one accepts Christ, the next important decision is to choose whether or not one will live a faithful Christ-like life. There are many examples of people in the Bible who have made a definitive decision to walk with Jesus, daily. One great example is Peter.
While Jesus walked on this earth, Peter (along with the other disciples) readily walked with Jesus. When Jesus was arrested, Peter was the one who wielded the sword, cutting off the ear of the servant of the high priest (see Mark 14:47 and John 18:10). However, just a few verses later we read as Peter denies even knowing Jesus. “But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak” (Mark 14:71). Peter had a decision to make. When he was questioned as to whether or not he knew Jesus, Peter denied Him. He was challenged about his faith in Jesus. We can read that initially, Peter failed miserably. We should be grateful that this was not a lasting failure.
When Jesus rose from the dead, the women were specifically instructed to go tell Peter. “But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you” (Mark 16:7). Peter met Jesus in Galilee. Jesus spoke to Peter, and He gave Peter a chance to make a better choice. “So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him,Feed my lambs” (John 21:15). Three times Jesus asked Peter. Three times Peter declared that he loved Jesus. Jesus had a job for Peter, if he would only follow Jesus. Peter had a decision to make – was he finished following Jesus with all of the turmoil surrounding Him and His death? Or did Peter want to fully commit his remaining life to follow Jesus, obeying His commands? Peter not only declared he loved Jesus, but as we begin the book of Acts, we find Peter became quite the leader and preacher of the Gospel Message (see Acts 1:15-26; 2:14-40). After that first amazing sermon, “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41).
Peter had come to a crossroad in his life. Initially, he denied Jesus. However, when given a second chance Peter fully committed to following Jesus. “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:7). Peter had faced a great trial of his faith in Jesus. He chose to make his faith in Christ his faith. He understood how precious that faith in Jesus truly was, and Peter endured. At that crossroad, when Peter chose to continually walk with Jesus, he chose to make it his faith regardless of what others did. He remained faithful throughout the rest of his life. Peter was an apostle of Jesus, yet he was a servant as well. He recognized that he had a precious faith only through the righteousness of God and Jesus Christ (see 2 Peter 1:1).
In the book of 1 Peter, Peter wrote about the importance of being obedient to Jesus, not living as he had once lived when he was ignorant of the things of God. Instead, Peter recognized the value of denying himself and choosing instead to become holy in his life. He believed it was important for him to live each and every day in the fear of the Lord (see I Peter 1:14-17). Fear means “a good connotation as in a godly fear; reverence.” Peter encouraged other Believers to do the same.
Do you have the precious faith that comes only through the righteousness of Jesus Christ?
Have you come to the crossroad of life, choosing to deny yourself and instead to follow Jesus?
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:25
Jesus’ earthly parents took Him to the Temple when He was a child, and He continued to go as an adult. He not only went to the Temple, but also the synagogue. The synagogues had become common places of Bible teaching and worship. They were started during the Babylonian captivity. Because the people had no Temple in which to worship God, they began to meet in smaller groups for worship and biblical instruction. According to Jesus’ actions, He not only went to the synagogue regularly, but He taught there often as well.
Jesus’ parents took Him to the Temple the first time shortly after He was born (see Luke 2:27). They took Jesus to the Temple when he was twelve years old (see Luke 2:46). When Jesus was an adult, He still went to the Temple and the synagogue often. “And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read” (Luke 4:16). It was His custom. There are dozens of verses in the Gospels declaring Jesus went to the synagogue and the Temple.
Do you remember what often happened when Jesus went to the synagogues? Or even the Temple? When he went to the synagogue in his hometown of Nazareth where He read a portion out of Isaiah, see what the people did. “28. And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, 29. And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong” (Luke 4:28-29). Not only were they angry with Jesus, they wanted to throw Him off of a cliff to kill Him. “But he passing through the midst of them went his way” (Luke 4:30). Nevertheless, Jesus did not quit going to the synagogue or the Temple. When He went, He often taught the people. When Jesus taught, He made known the need for repentance of sin. The people would then be given the choice – to accept Him or reject Him.
See a few of the following examples:
A ruler of the synagogue believed in Jesus to heal his daughter (see Mark 5:22-24, 35-43).
The people did not believe in Jesus (see Mark 6:2-6).
The people of Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth rejected Him, wanting to kill Him (see Luke 4:16-30).
Jesus taught in the Temple, and many did believe on Him (see John 7:28-31).
Because Jesus went to the Temple and synagogues often, many of the religious leaders heard and believed in Jesus. “Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue” (John 12:42).
Today, we do not go to the Temple, for it has been replaced for Christians with the church building. The church building is the place that Christians go to meet in smaller groups for worship and biblical instruction. (Did you notice that was the same function as the synagogue?) Because Jesus found it important to go to the synagogue often, many recognized who Jesus was during the gathering of people in those locations. It was there that God’s Word was taught. Today, Christians are to attend church often. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25). Not only are we to attend church to learn more about the Bible, helping us to become better Christians, but for much the same reason that Jesus often visited the Temple and the synagogues – to encourage and teach others about Jesus.
Admittedly, today’s churches are sometimes difficult places to attend regularly. There are obviously problems in some churches. It may even be difficult to find a true Bible believing and teaching church. However, each Christian is encouraged to go more and more often, for time is short. The synagogues Jesus attended were fraught with religiosity. The leaders taught a religious system and tradition more than God’s Word. Jesus was often challenged, met with confrontation, rejected, and at times even attended at the peril of His life. Yet He continued to frequent them regularly. However, while He was there, He taught the truth. Sometimes He said, “as it is written”, and often He referred to what they had heard and told them, “I say unto you” to correct what they had heard.
Today, we have the complete written Word of God, and it is important that each Christian knows what the Bible teaches. When a Christian goes to church, one can be pretty confident that there is no fear of death. However, there may be challenges, confrontations, or even rejection. But that is no reason to quit attending church (maybe find a new one!). Jesus attended while He lived here on earth. Christians should be just as faithful, praying God will provide a Bible teaching church to attend. Paul encouraged the men he left in charge at the church in Ephesus. Remember what he taught them: “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). The church was purchased with the blood of Christ. It is very important to Him.
Have you found a Bible teaching church in which to attend faithfully?
“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”
Colossians 4:6
Some people are born with a gift of having a ready answer for any question or comment. Often times that answer can encourage one. However, there are also times when the ready answer is not what one needs to hear at all. A Christian is to “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6). But what does that mean?
The first part teaches us, “Let your speech be alway with grace”. Speech is easily understood as one’s conversations, and the words one speaks. This verse helps us understand what kind of speech we should use: “alway with grace”. What is grace? Grace means “the external form or manner of words or discourses as gratefulness, agreeableness, acceptableness.” Often times it is easy to speak in the heat of the moment, without this grace in our speech. This is one of the things Christians are to improve in their lives. Why is this so important? Remember how Paul encourages us with his example in Corinthians. “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place”(2 Corinthians 2:14). Savour means “a good odor as accompanying an acceptable sacrifice.” Knowledge means “spoken of what is known; doctrine.” Paul understood what God was able to do through his faithful testimony for Christ, portrayed in the way he lived and spoke. Everywhere Paul went he shared Jesus and the doctrine of salvation – making it known in “every place.” Wherever Paul went, the people were called to a time of decision – either accept Jesus, or reject Jesus. “15. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16. To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). Paul understood the importance of his words and lifestyle. At all times, the world looks at Christians. Christians’ lives are either a savor of death unto death or savor of life unto life. This teaches that Christians are either a witness for the world, turning people from Christ because of their words and lives, or Christians are a witness for Christ in the way they respond correctly to the things in this life.
Once Christians understand the importance of their speech, they need to understand: seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6b). Seasoned with salt means “a word or discourse that is appropriate or proper.” Back in the old days, most people knew all of the purposes of salt; for it was a necessity of life. Consider three of the most important uses for salt. These are still useful for today.
First, salt is often used to season food, giving it taste. Many foods would be tasteless without salt. It is important for Christians to have the Bible hidden in their hearts, allowing His Word to come out in their conversations and answers in life. Psalm 119 is all about the importance of having God’s Word in one’s heart. Christians should read it often, and put much of it into their hearts. What is placed in the heart will come out in one’s speech and lifestyle (see Proverbs 4:23).
Second, salt is used to prevent corruption and instead be used to preserve. Christians’ lives should be a constant rebuke to the corruption of sin, and an encouragement to choose life. Remember: “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans 8:6).
Finally, consider that salt creates one to be thirsty. One of the greatest things Christian’s lives should do is to cause others to want what they have – Jesus Christ.
How are Christians able to do these things? Right before this, Paul encouraged Christians what to do to help them to become more like Christ: “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2). Continue means “steadfastness and faithfulness in the outgoings of the Christian life, especially in prayer.” Paul then gave instructions as to how to “continue” that Christian walk. “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time” (Colossians 4:5). Wisdom means “the skill in the affairs of life; practical wisdom; wise management as shown in forming the best plans; sound judgment and good sense.” Them that are without means “those not belonging to church; not Christians.” This helps us understand the importance of living a faithful Christian life. Christians’ lives are to be lived consistently, so that anyone who sees them (especially the lost: those without Christ) will know, with certainty, that they are Christians. Remember the important way we have now learned to do this. “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:6). What Christians say and the way they respond to situations must be Christ-like. Having God’s Word hidden in the heart will enable one to “know how ye ought to answer every man.” Each Christian is to live every aspect of his or her life so that at any point someone sees them, that person will see Jesus in the Christian’s life.
Is your speech seasoned with salt, knowing how to answer those without Christ, teaching them how they can know Him?
“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”
2 Peter 3:18
Jesus called twelve men to be His special disciples. We now call them Apostles. Each of these men were different from the others. These men had particular qualities and character traits that we can recognize about them. Why do you think that Jesus called such a diverse group to begin the spread of the Gospel message to the world?
Many children memorize the names of Jesus’ twelve disciples in a Sunday School Class. Do you remember their names, or even much about them? Read one listing of these men: “And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James” (Acts 1:13). In this listing, Judas Iscariot (which also was the traitor) is noticeably missing (see why in Matthew 27:3-5; and Acts 1:16-18). Almost everyone remembers about Judas Iscariot. Jesus knew Judas Iscariot would betray Him (see Matthew 26:21-25 and John 6:64).
Consider a few of the disciples:
Peter was called Cephas (which meas “a stone) by Jesus (see John 1:42). Peter mostly seemed to be bold, yet sometimes he appeared afraid (see Matthew 14:22-33). When Jesus asked His disciples who they said He was, Peter was the first to declare: “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Jesus blessed him for this (see Matthew 16:17). Peter is famous for proclaiming he would never deny Jesus. However, Jesus warned Peter that he would deny Him that very night. And he did.
James and John were brothers: “And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder” (Mark 3:17). Apparently, they were a bit fiery and defensive of Jesus when He was rejected by the Samaritans: “And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?” (Luke 9:54).
Andrew (Peter’s brother), was the first to follow Jesus, and he brought his brother, Peter, to meet Jesus (see John 1:40-42).
Philip, brought Bartholomew (Nathanael) to Jesus (see John 1:45-46).
Thomas will probably always be known as “doubting Thomas” (see John 20:24-29).
Bartholomew (Nathanael) was an honest man who was skeptical when he first heard of Jesus, but immediately recognized who Jesus is. “Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel” (John 1:49).
Matthew (also called Levi, the son of Alphaeus) left all and followed Jesus, however Jesus ate at his house first. “And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for there were many, and they followed him” (Mark 2:15).
James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James about whom not much is known.
Was there anything special about these men? They appeared to be average men. Peter, Andrew, James and John were fishermen. Jesus called them from catching fish to becoming “fishers of men.” Jesus taught them to go tell others how to know Jesus. However, the same thing can happen to people today. One may not see Jesus walking down the road, calling an individual to follow Him, but one can understand the call upon the heart when hearing the Bible preached and taught. It is then that each individual who hears that call upon the heart should respond in affirmation. Yes! I will follow Jesus!
After Jesus resurrected and appeared to His disciples, He took time to speak personally with Peter, who had denied Jesus three times just before His death. Jesus wanted Peter to understand that even though he had failed in one area at that point in His commitment to Him; Jesus still had mighty plans for Him – if Peter was willing to do what Jesus asked of Him (see John 21:14-19). Even when a Christians fails, falling short of what Jesus would expect, if that one will return as Peter did (remember he was the first disciple to run to the tomb, and the first to jump out of the boat swimming to shore to see Jesus), Jesus can still use a repentant Christian. Peter grew in his Christian life. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18). Peter encouraged Christians to continue to grow.
As one reads the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), one can understand the growth of these men as they walked with Jesus. When Jesus ascended back into heaven after His resurrection, He entrusted these men to go forth, preaching the Gospel Message. When you read Acts, their growth continued as they understood how to live as disciples of Jesus. They were not the same men that we were introduced to when Jesus called them. It is because of their faithful witness (and many more like them) that we can know the Gospel Message, too. Although we may not know much about these men, we understand enough in that they followed Jesus to the end.
Christians should learn much from these men. None of them were perfect. None of them were known – until they responded in affirmation to the call of Jesus upon their lives. As Jesus called them, one by one, they each chose to follow Jesus.
Have you met Jesus, and then chosen to grow in your Christian life?
“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:”
John 11:25
Most remember reading about Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, who was sick and died. When Martha questioned Jesus about Lazarus’ death, Jesus told her that he would rise again. Martha believed in a resurrection, one day. “25. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? 27. She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world” (John 11:25-27). Do you see where her faith fell short? She did not yet believe or understand that Jesus had power over life and death. Mary went to Jesus, and they all went to the tomb. “39. Jesus said, Take ye away the stone.Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days. 40. Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?” (John 11:39-40).
When Jesus called Lazarus from the grave, Lazarus rose from the dead. Jesus drew the people’s attention to God, His Father, “that they may believe that thou hast sent me” (see John 11:42). More importantly, we read “many of the Jews which … had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him” (see John 11:45).
A short time later, Jesus went to Bethany where Lazarus lived. “There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him” (John 12:2). Mary took a costly ointment (one often used to anoint bodies for burial) and anointed the feet of Jesus. Judas Iscariot asked why the ointment wasn’t sold to give the money to the poor. “This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein” (John 12:6). Jesus understood why Mary had done this. “Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this” (John 12:7). Although it appeared no one understood, Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem for the final week of His life. But did someone understand?
This is the same Mary who chose to sit at the feet of Jesus a previous time Jesus came to eat with them, listening to Him teach. Remember that her sister, Martha, complained to Jesus because Mary wasn’t serving with her. “41. And Jesus answered and said unto her,Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: 42. But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42). Jesus declared that it was good that Mary had chosen to sit at the feet of Jesus, listening to Him teach. “And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word” (Luke 10:39). Take note that Mary “heard his word”. She understood when Jesus taught. No one could ever take away from Mary that which she learned at the feet of Jesus.
Now, we have remembered that Mary was one who heard Jesus as He taught, and she witnessed Jesus raise her brother from the dead. Remember something that Jesus revealed to His disciples often, although they did not understand. “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day” (Matthew 16:21). Jesus had often declared that He would die and live again (see Matthew 17:22-23; Mark 8:31; 9:31; Luke 9:22; 18:31; etc.). After remembering these things, one can understand why Jesus said, “Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this” (John 12:7b). Jesus knew that Mary understood that He was going to die soon. Jesus knew, and we can understand that Mary knew. She may not have fully understood what all was about to transpire, but we can see she believed. Jesus acknowledged this. She had witnessed the death of her brother, Lazarus. Four days later, she witnessed Jesus raise him from the dead. It was only a short time later that she anointed Jesus’ feet with oil. Something in her heart had obviously clicked, and she understood. She must have remembered what Jesus had said to Martha, her sister: “25. … I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?” (John 11:25-26).
Do you know where Mary was obviously absent? “Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene” (John 19:25). (See also Matthew 27:56.) Although there were women named Mary at the foot of the cross, it appears that Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, is absent. She understood that even when Jesus died, He would live again.
Mary believed.
Have you acknowledged that Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and whosoever believes in Jesus, shall live?
“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”
Acts 17:11
There seems to be a genuine question: can women teach in the church?
Consider the following thoughts, and do what Paul challenged the Bereans to do: “11. 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. 12. Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few” (Acts 17:11-12).
The book of 1 Corinthians was written to a church Paul had established in a very pagan city. The people who lived in Corinth were immoral and worshiped a pagan goddess. Paul wrote to the church to teach the new Christians that they needed to forsake their former lifestyles and understand how to function orderly within the church. The natural man does not operate the same way as the spiritual man. Paul taught them of the order in the homes and the order in the church. There are many spiritual gifts, and the members of a church have different gifts. Christians are to function together using those gifts as the body of Christ (see 1 Corinthians 12). One of the gifts that was obviously used improperly was the gift of tongues. It was causing much confusion in the church, so Paul dealt with it. In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul encouraged them to use their spiritual gifts properly. None of the gifts were to bring attention to that individual, but all attention is to be given to the Lord. “If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret” (1 Corinthians 14:27). When someone spoke in a unknown tongue (tongue means “by implication a language (specifically one naturally unacquired)”), there was to be an interpreter present “But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God” (1 Corinthians 14:28). Let him keep silence means “to keep silent; hold peace.” The overall point was to eliminate the confusion of unintelligent utterances and too many speaking at once. Instead it was to be one by one (see 1 Corinthians 14:29-32). “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints” (1 Corinthians 14:33). Knowing that the position of the elder (pastor), deacons and leaders in the churches are to be men helps in the understanding of the following verse: “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law” (1 Corinthians 14:34). This is quite a favorite verse for some people! However, consider a couple of things. First, the reference is to the confusion that had entered the church in the form of tongues (which included the men being told to keep silent as well! See verse 27-28). Second, no one addresses the second part of that verse: “but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law” (1 Corinthians 14:34b). If you go back and read 1 Corinthians 11:1-17, you can understand that Paul was correcting the error for the way men and women had been praying or prophesying. Prophesying and prophesieth means “to declare truths through the inspiration of God’s Holy Spirit whether by prediction or not.” The men and women in 1 Corinthians were declaring truths, however they were not doing it under obedience to the way God wanted it done in the churches (women were to be submissive and under the authority of their husbands). So, when you put these verses all together, you find that men and women are both able to teach (or prophecy: “to declare truths through the inspiration of God’s Holy Spirit”), however if it is not done correctly, both are told to keep silent. Because of the order of the family and the church that Paul taught (especially in Corinth), we can understand that when a wife does not understand what is happening or taught in a church service, she is to ask her husband at home – not publicly address the issue in church. Addressing them in a public forum at church will most likely cause more problems. This is what Paul was addressing: the confusion in the church. Note the following: “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 14:37). Paul (under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit) was writing that this is not anyone’s opinion. This is the commandments of the Lord. If someone does not like this? “ But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant” (1 Corinthians 14:38). Man here means “someone, anyone, a certain one.” Ignorant means “to know clearly, it means to be mistaken, misunderstood” translated as unknown in other verses.
In Titus, Paul not only wrote about the duties of pastors, in chapter two he began with what must be taught to Christians in general. “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1). Sound means “of doctrine, meaning sound doctrine; true, pure, uncorrupted.” Doctrine means “the thing taught, instruction, precept, as coming from God meaning divine teaching.” The integrity of the Gospel message and the Christian lifestyle must be kept true. Paul also taught the basics of Christian behaviors, beginning with the“aged men” (see Titus 2:2):(note some definitions to help understand in [ ] after some words):
“That the aged men be sober, [Sober means “to be temperate; self-controlled; sober-minded; watchful; circumspect.”]
grave, [Grave means “to worship; venerable; reverend; reputable; dignified. That which is derived from a higher citizenship, a heavenly one, which is the possession of all believers: a majestic and awe-inspiring quality which does not repel but rather invites and attracts.”]
temperate, [Temperate means “discreet; sober; of a sound mind; self-disciplined in one’s freedom; self-restrained in all passions and desires.”]
sound in faith, [Sound in faith means “of persons meaning firm, pure in respect to Christian doctrine and life.”]
in charity, [Charity means “love; affectionate regard; goodwill; benevolence.”]
in patience.” [Patience means “the patience God bestows as in the patience as a quality of mind; the bearing of evils, and suffering with tranquil mind.”]
It is important to understand how the aged men were to behave, for these things are also required behavior of the “aged women” (see Titus 2:3). Notice that the following list is a continuation of the listing for the aged men (as indicated by the word “likewise”: (note some definitions to help understand in [ ] after some words):
“The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, [As becometh holiness means “such as becomes sacred persons; venerable; meaning to act like a sacred person.”]
not false accusers, [False accusers means “one who falsely accuses and divides people with any reason; an accuser; a slanderer.”]
not given to much wine, [Given to much wine means “it implies not a dependence upon, or becoming bondage to fermented drink. The drinking of wine, though not forbidden by Scripture (although drunkenness is), it is to be avoided in the presence of weaker brothers who might be influenced to partake against their consciences (see Romans 14:21).”]
teachers of good things;” [teachers of good things means “a teacher of the right.”]
Notice that the aged women not only have the duty to perform the things listed for the aged men, and also the things in Titus 2:3, but they are obligated to live these things out in their lives enabling them to do the following. The aged woman (not necessarily an age in years, but in wisdom according to God’s Word) must not only know the doctrines of the faith, but the instructions found within the Word of God. These are the good and right things that must be taught to the younger women, enabling them to fulfill their proper duties as Christians, wives, and mothers. If one has not learned the doctrines of the faith and the instructions in the Bible, they will be ill-equipped to live an enabled life to be good wives and mothers (which are addressed in (Titus 2:4-6). Especially note how Titus 2:4 begins: “4. That they may teach the young women to be sober, [Teach the young women to be sober means “to teach young women to be sober-minded; to discipline, train, to think and act soberly, discreetly, and in moderation; to correct and teach; the young women are to be taught to ‘voluntarily place limitations upon their own freedoms’.”] Christian women need to be taught that they are just as important to God as anyone else (see Galatians 3:28), but God has a specific job for them (just as any other Christian: see Ephesians 2:10). Nowhere does this exclude teaching other women or encouraging them in the Lord.
Titus 2:5-6 continues to reference the behavior with one’s own husband and children. When Paul speaks of submissiveness by a woman, it is always on the part of a wife to her own husband: as in 1 Timothy 2: “11. Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence” (1 Timothy 2:11-12). Silence means “stillness, that is, desistance from bustle or language: – quietness, silence.” The man means “a man (properly as an individual male): husband.” Once again, this is in reference to a woman, in quietness, learning from her husband as she is under his authority (per the curse in Genesis 3:16-17). Probably the most difficult thing for a woman is to recognize that God expects them to “voluntarily place limitations upon their own freedoms”. If women would do this one thing that God requires, the feminist movement would die overnight.
Christians are encouraged to do the following: “16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:16-17).
Now, as to what the Bible warns to anyone who desires to be a teacher of the Word of God: “My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation” (James 3:1). Masters means “a teacher; an instructor.” Take note that teachers will receive the greater condemnation. Condemnation means “the result of a decision; the execution or judgment, punishment.” Each teacher of God’s Word will be held more accountable for what they teach. However, God has enabled and even called some people to teach the Word of God. “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13). One must live their faith “with meekness of wisdom” before one considers doing anything else.
Have you chosen to receive the word with all readiness of mind, and search the Scriptures daily finding the will of God for your life?
“For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son”
John 5:22
No one wants to be judged. Often, people declare, “Judge not lest ye be judged!” However, it doesn’t really matter whether one wants to be judged or not. There is a judgment day coming. Deep down, people really believe this, too. Even movies have been named with this thought in mind. How many can you think of?
We must be reminded of some of the things Jesus said about judgment: “22. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: 23. That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.” (John 5:22-23). God has committed judgment unto His Son, Jesus. “I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me” (John 5:30). Jesus’ judgment is just because He does the will of His Father, God.
However, understand why Jesus came; not to judge, but to give life. “46. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. 47. And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world” (John 12:46-47). When Jesus first came, it was not to judge but to offer life. This brings to mind a couple of very famous verses: “16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved” (John 3:16-17). Jesus came the first time to bring salvation that is only available through His perfect life and atoning death. Read how this is explained in the following couple of verses: “For he (God) hath made him (Jesus)to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). (Emphasis added.) See also: “And be found in him (Jesus Christ), not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith” (Philippians 3:9). (Emphasis added.) One must hear the message, acknowledge what Jesus did, believe, and live a transformed life for Him. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Read why Jesus came: “And he (Jesus) said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth” (Mark 1:38). (Emphasis added.) See also: “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). When Jesus came, He did mighty miracles. “36. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them. 37. But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him” (John 12:36-37). When Jesus came preaching and doing many miracles, there were still many who did not believe on Him.
Now that salvation has been paid for and offered to all the world, a choice must be made by each individual. One must remember that judgment is not immediate. One is welcome to live his or her life here on this earth, whichever way that one chooses. What will happen to those who do not receive the message that Jesus preached? “48. He that rejecteth me (Jesus), and receiveth not my words (Jesus’ Words), hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. 49. For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak” (John 12:48-49). (Emphasis added.) The Words Jesus spoke are the Words by which all will be judged. These are recorded in the Bible for us to know. The ultimate and final judgment will come when each person will stand before Jesus one day. (Those who received Jesus’ Words: see 2 Corinthians 5:10; and those who rejected Jesus’ Words and chose to not believe: see Revelation 20:11-15).
We understand that God sent His only Son, Jesus, not to condemn the world. He came so that the world could be saved. However, the choice is left up to each individual person – to believe or to not believe. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36).
Anyone who receives Jesus and His Word will have eternal life.
Anyone who receives not Jesus and His Word will be judged according to that one day.
The choice is up to you.
Have you chosen to reject Jesus’ Words and not believe upon Jesus, the only One who can save?
Or
Have you chosen to believe Jesus’ Words and to accept His gift of salvation?
“Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.”
Hebrews 3:12
We are warned of something that will happen in the “latter times”: A departing from the faith. “1. Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2. Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron” (1 Timothy 4:1-2). The departing from the Christian faith is called apostasy. See what that word means: Apostasy is “a falling away… the act of a professed Christian, who knowingly and deliberately rejects revealed truth regarding the deity of Christ and redemption through His atoning sacrifice. It is different from error, which may be the result of ignorance. Apostasy departs from the faith, but not from the outward profession of it (see 2 Timothy 3:5: “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away”). Apostasy is irremediable and awaits judgment. Apostates apparently can only be professors and not actual possessors of true salvation…”
This is not new. However, it seems to be more prevalent in these days. Jesus dealt with it when He was on the earth. Remember – Jesus knew what was in man’s heart (see John 2:24-25). “64. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. 65. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. 66. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him” (John 6:64-66). Even many people who met Jesus (and even became His “disciples”) turned from Him. We have a warning of this behavior: “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God” (Hebrews 3:12). They did not believe in Jesus, departing from the living God that walked among them. For those who chose to turn away, that is apostasy.
The Bible has much to say about those who become a “disciple” (what we might call a Christian today), but later chooses to turn and live that life contrary to what the Bible teaches. There is a great difference between one who professes Christ and one who possesses Christ. One must understand what a believing faith is. Faith means “a technical term indicative of the means of appropriating what God in Christ has for man resulting in the transformation of man’s character and way of life; i.e.: namely, Christian faith; a firm and confiding belief in Jesus and His gospel.” The Bible teaches that when one has true faith in Jesus, that old life passes away for they become a new creature in Christ. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). (See also Romans 12:1-2.)
Read about one who professes Christ only: “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?” (James 2:14). Faith in James 2:14, 17, 18, 24, 26 means “simply a knowledge and assent to religious truths without good works and therefore, false faith.” So according to this definition, a person who says they have faith, yet there is no evidence (appropriating what God in Christ has for man resulting in the transformation of man’s character and way of life), that is not true faith; it is a false faith. “17. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. 19. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (James 2:17-20). These verses describe a dead faith. Saying one believes in God (or Jesus) does not make one a true Believer. Remember that the devils believe, but we know they are not Christians. The works (transformation of man’s character and way of life) is what reveals whether that one had become a new creature in Christ. Remember what Jesus said: “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 7:21). One who does His will reveals the faith that is within.
Understand the truth of Jesus Christ: His death, burial, and resurrection enabling one to gain a new life in Him: see 2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” If you are not sure, Jesus told you what to do: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me” (John 5:39). Go back and read what the Bible teaches about Jesus and why He came. To search the Scriptures and miss Christ would be a great tragedy. However, after one has learned the truth of Jesus Christ, then chooses to turn from Him, that is eternally fatal. For a vivid picture of this, read 2 Peter 2:20-22. It is a description of one who has heard the truth, maybe even having a temporary outward change, yet ends up turning from that truth. That one has no hope.
“And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:”
Luke 18:9
There is a very familiar parable that Jesus told about a Pharisee and a publican. “9. And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 10. Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other menare,extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.12. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.13. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much ashiseyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14.I tell you, this man went down to his house justifiedratherthan the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” (Luke 18:9-14). The reason Jesus told this was to draw attention to the fact that some people “trusted in themselves that they were righteous”. This is a very dangerous thing and everyone needs to understand exactly what this means.
The word righteous has a very long definition in the Greek. Righteous(Dikaios) means “that which is right, conformable to right … When this absolute justice is applied to man, it is stated that there is no man who in his behavior can fully meet the expectations of God in his life (see Romans 3:10: “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one”)…” This very long definition helps one understand what the Bible means when it says righteous. The definition continues, for in Luke 18:9 it has a totally different meaning. Righteous (Dikaios) means “may also apply to the person who establishes his own rules of life. Such was a Pharisee whom the Lord exposed as righteous in himself (see Matthew 9:13: “But go ye and learn whatthatmeaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”; see Luke 18:9:“And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:”). Having set up and kept, or pretended to keep, certain standards, the Pharisees called themselves righteous or just in the sight of God. Most of these rules and regulations, however, were not those of inner holiness and conformity to God, but mere performance of external ceremonial ordinances (see Romans 10:3: “For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.”) … The nonbelievers, referred to as heathen, call others righteous or just, as they compare them with their own standards… Christianity must continually combat such a view …” There is much more to this definition, but this section is very interesting in that it deals with man’s definition of righteous – not God’s. Much like the Pharisee in the parable Jesus told.
Another time Jesus used this definition was when He was addressing the Pharisees as they challenged Jesus for eating with publicans and sinners whom Matthew had brought to meet Jesus. It would be important for us to remember that when people choose to follow Jesus (as Jesus’ disciples had), there is usually trouble stirring nearby. “10. And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. 11. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? 12. But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. 13. But go ye and learn whatthatmeaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Matthew 9:10-13). The scribes and Pharisees (the religious leaders) questioned Jesus – but they did not ask their questions directly to Jesus, instead asking Jesus’ disciples. However, Jesus knew what was happening. He immediately stepped in, and dealt with their challenge of Him eating with sinners. Jesus made it clear why He had come. Jesus had, “not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” If you ponder on that for a bit, understanding what the word righteous means according to what we just read, it might scare you a bit. Jesus told them to learn that they were sick (their self-righteousness would not uphold when they stood before God one day). Until they understood that they were sick (lost, apart from Christ and His righteousness), they would die in their sin and spend eternity in hell. They had to first acknowledge their sin, which leads to repentance. Only a sinner who is repentant before God can receive the righteousness of Christ which gives salvation. “And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith” (Philippians 3:9).
Have you rejected self-righteousness of your own making and instead chosen to receive the righteousness of Christ?
