The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Christian

  • How to Live Successfully

    “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”

    Romans 12:1

    After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry land into the Promised Land, God told Joshua to circumcise all of the men. This was done in front of their enemies. The men remained still for three days healing from that circumcision. This circumcision was an act of obedience to God’s Word (see Joshua 5:1-9). One cannot help but wonder if Joshua considered what had happened to the men of Shechem (see Genesis 34). Nevertheless, Joshua obeyed God’s Word. God then allowed the Israelites to defeat the city of Jericho (see Joshua 6). “So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country” (Joshua 6:27). Joshua then proceeded to lead the people to conquer the land of Canaan (the land promised to Abraham and his descendants). “So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD said unto Moses; and Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. And the land rested from war” (Joshua 11:23).

    What does this have to do with Christians today?

    Consider how this relates to a Christian and their ability to walk a conquered Christian life. First, we are to understand that the Promised Land is a picture of a Christian’s life here on earth. The crossing of the Jordan into the Promised Land, is much like a picture of one’s death, burial, and resurrection when they are saved. “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Just as the Israelites were “dying” to their old life in the wilderness, they were beginning a new life in the Promised Land. One who becomes a Christian must die to their old life of sin, becoming 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).

    When the men were circumcised on the enemies’ side of the Jordan, obeying God’s Word, it was as if they were a “living sacrifice” before God (see Romans 12:1: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service”). This had to be done as a first act of faith before they began the conquering of the land. They had to have wondered if the enemies would come and try to defeat them in a weakened state. It was this act of faith (recognizing God’s protection before their enemies at their weakest point), that enabled them not to conform to the way the world does things. They followed God’s Word, allowing their minds to be “transformed” proving the will of God. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2).

    This is a physical picture of what a Christian must do spiritually. A Christian must present his or her self to God, obeying God’s Word. This act of faith reveals the understanding that obedience to God’s Word is required before one can live a successful Christian life. Remember that Christians’ lives are not their own, for we have been bought with a price! “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:20). It is then that a Christian is enabled to live a life, not like the rest of the world, but different from the world! This reveals the transformation of the mind that is required to “prove” (means “by implication to approve; to allow, discern”) God’s will in one’s life. Once a Christian has discerned and allowed God’s will to guide one’s life, God will help defeat all opposition. Just as God helped Joshua as he led God’s people to conquer the Promised Land. When they failed, they sought God, and God corrected. God will do the same thing in a Christian’s life.

    If Romans 12:1-2 does not happen immediately after one becomes born again, it will be almost impossible to live a successful Christian life.

    Have you presented your life to God as a living sacrifice, ready to prove God’s will in your life?

  • Joseph, God’s Plan

    “And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand.”

    Genesis 39:3

    No matter what happened in Joseph’s life, the presence of God was revealed in his life. The LORD was with Joseph. Remember some highlights from Joseph’s life:

    Joseph came from a dysfunctional family – Jacob (his father) was a trickster most of his life (until God got a hold of him).

    Joseph’s mom died while he was a teenager.

    Joseph was his father’s favorite (probably because he was born of Rachel – his father’s true love).

    His father gave him a special coat of many colors.

    Joseph had two amazing dreams. God revealed to Joseph that all of the world’s resources would be in his control and all of the world rulers would bow down to him.

    His brothers were wicked, ungodly, jealous of Joseph (remember the coat), and resented him (because of the dreams).

    Joseph’s brothers stripped him of his coat, threw him into a pit, and sold him as a slave.

    When Joseph made it to Egypt, he was bought by Potiphar as a slave. “2. And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man… 3. And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand” (Genesis 39:2-3).

    After Joseph became the head over Potiphar’s entire household, Potiphar’s wife began to entice him, falsely accusing Joseph.

    Potiphar had Joseph cast into prison. “But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison” (Genesis 39:21).

    Joseph became the head in the prison. “The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and that which he did, the LORD made it to prosper” (Genesis 39:23).

    While in prison, Joseph interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh’s butler and baker.

    After two years, the butler remembered Joseph in prison when Pharaoh had a dream he needed interpreted.

    Pharaoh called Joseph out of prison, Joseph interpreted the dreams, and Pharaoh put him in charge of collecting and storing the grain for the future famine, making Joseph ruler only under Pharaoh. “And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is?” (Genesis 41:38). 

    Because of the famine, Joseph’s brothers appeared before Joseph, whom they did not recognize, and asked for grain.

    Joseph eventually revealed himself to his brothers. Remember what Joseph acknowledged: “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5). Joseph recognized that God had planned all of these things.

    Joseph prospered no matter what happened to him, because God’s presence was evident in Joseph’s life. Joseph chose to be different. He told the truth, when his brothers were doing what was wrong (see Genesis 37:1-2). Even when his brothers hated him the more for his dreams and his words (see Genesis 37:5-8). However, Joseph did not conform to the wickedness of his brothers. This was revealed early in his life. As he followed God, living an honest life of integrity, God worked.

    We should take note of this. As Christians, Joseph is a great example of allowing God to be revealed in our lives. We should be truthful, not conforming to the wickedness that is around us. We should understand that God has a plan for each Christian’s life. How do you find out what that plan is? Pray and read your Bible. Remember what we learn in Romans. “1. I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2). These verses will help you understand God has a plan for you, and how to find out what that plan is. First, a Christian should present that life to God, allowing Him to work in that life. Pray, asking God to transform your life. You must understand that “be ye transformed” has to come from within. What is the inner nature of a Christian? Because Jesus is in the heart and life, the influence of Jesus is what should come out. Christians are to have the mind of Christ. “For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). Christians can only have the mind of Christ when we read our Bible. As we obey God’s Word, we find ourselves obeying God’s will. We are to allow God to be real in our lives. Remember what happens to a butterfly. The worm after entering the cocoon, exits a beautiful butterfly. In the same way, as Christians follow God’s Word (by renewing our minds to God’s ways), our lives will become what God wants them to be. Take note, Christians need to refuse the world’s conformity that does not let that new nature (born of Jesus) to come out into our lifestyles. When we refuse that conformity, becoming transformed, it is then that we can begin to see God working in our lives, recognizing God’s will revealed in our lives. This is how we know the will of God for us. Joseph revealed this in amazing ways. Joseph followed God, and God worked in his life. As you follow God, ask Him to continue speaking to your heart through His Word. Understand that the devil does not want you to walk in the paths God has for your life, so it will not always be easy (remember Joseph’s life!).

    Joseph did not find God’s will for his life. God’s will found Joseph. Because Joseph willingly trusted God, God was with Him, and God’s plan for Joseph’s life was revealed. This was the plan for Joseph’s life.

    Have you trusted God, recognized him working in your life, then seeing His plan to revealed in your life?

  • A Counterfeit Christian

    “Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.”

    Acts 8:21

    Satan is very religious. He does not mind if people are religious. He actually uses religion to deceive people. There is a very interesting case in point found in the book of Acts.

    Philip had preached Jesus to the people of Samaria (see Acts 8:5-25). He did many miracles, unclean spirits were cast out, and many were healed. Remember that this was the beginning of the establishment of the church, and that was why these special miracles took place. Many people heard Philip’s teachings. “But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one” (Acts 8:9). When he declared himself as “some great one”, many had thought he was the “great power of God” because he had bewitched them with sorceries for so long (see Acts 8:10-11). He had practiced what could be called a “religion.” It is good to understand that Satan comes with power, signs, and lying wonders. Moreover, one day these things will be personified in The Anti-Christ. “Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders” (2 Thessalonians 2:9).

    However, when Philip preached Jesus to the Samaritans, they believed upon Jesus (see Acts 8:12). “Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done” (Acts 8:13). We read that Simon believed also. The Apostles came when they heard the people of Samaria had received the Word of God. When Simon saw these Believers received the Spirit of God, he offered the Apostles money because he wanted to be able to do this himself. Nevertheless, Peter understood that Simon thought the gift of God could be purchased with money. Simon did not understand salvation. It is a free gift. “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24).

    Peter recognized the condition of Simon’s heart. “Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God” (Acts 8:21). It would be good to remember that Jesus had dealt with this heart issue before. Jesus had done many miracles, and many people believed. Yet read what Jesus understood about those people. “23. Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. 24. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, 25. And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man” (John 2:23-25). There is a difference in when one believes in the miracles, and when one believes with the heart unto salvation. Remember how Jesus put it: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life” (John 5:24). We remember the importance of belief in Jesus: “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house” (Acts 16:31). It is not enough to believe in God. One must believe that Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is God. Remember that the devils, too, believe in God. “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19). However, we know they are not saved. They have remained devils.

    How can one tell when one believes in the heart that Jesus Christ, the Messiah, is God come in the flesh to pay the penalty for man’s sin? “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). The heart is changed. There is a complete change – inside and out.

    What did Peter understand about Simon, the sorcerer? First, Simon was not a true Believer because his heart was not right, and he needed to repent. “21. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee” (Acts 8:21-22). In what condition did Peter recognize Simon’s heart was? “For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity” (Acts 8:23). Simon’s heart was not right; therefore, he was in the “gall of bitterness”. Gall here means “poison” and bitterness means “a piercing poison.” The word bond means “the uniting principle” and iniquity means “wrongfulness.” Peter was pointing out that Simon’s heart issue was a piercing poison that was uniting him in wrongfulness. When Simon was confronted with the condition of his heart, we do not read that he repented. “Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me” (Acts 8:24). He just asked Peter to pray for him. Simon recognized that he was a counterfeit Christian. He only had a religion. Yet he did nothing about it. He was content to remain in that condition.

    Have you believed with your heart that Jesus Christ is God, becoming a new creature in Him?

    Or

    Are you a counterfeit Christian whose heart has not truly believed?

    http://biblicalpath.com/index.php/how-to-be-saved/

  • Precious Promises

    “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”

    2 Peter 1:4

    As Peter began this second letter, read how he introduced himself. “Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1). Also, take note to whom this letter is written: Christians.   

    • Like precious means “equally precious or valuable.”
    • Faith means “appropriating what God in Christ has for man, resulting in the transformation of man’s character and way of life (a.k.a. Christian faith, Christian doctrine, gospel); meaning the doctrines received and believed; all that Christianity stands for.” 

    All who become a Christian are saved in exactly the same way – only through faith in Jesus. However, with that faith is to come a transformation of one’s character and way of life. This is what Peter was calling to mind in his readers. He was affiliating himself with them in like faith, character, and lifestyle. This laid the foundation for what he wanted to teach them.

    God gives the power to live a Christian life. “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3). According as means “implying quality, character, circumstances as known in any personal thing; something which is a matter of belief or opinion.”  By this, we understand that Peter is talking about something Christians have, or they should know they have: that is, God’s divine power that has given us all things we need for the Christian life (“all things that pertain unto life and godliness”). We find the “knowledge of him” in the Bible.

    Understand the two things into which God called Christians:

    • Glory means “spoken of that which excites admiration to which honor is ascribed as in the divine perfections as manifested in the power of God.”  
    • Virtue means “superiority or being pleasing to God; moral excellence; perfection; goodness of action.” 

    Recognize that God has called Christians, and they are to be excited about the prospect of being able to become more like Jesus, which is pleasing to God. Moreover, Peter called to mind God’s promises to His people. “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Peter 1:4). Christians are to “be partakers” because of these promises. God gave many, but think of two specific promises: His Son, Jesus, who was promised from the beginning of time, and the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, who would comfort and teach Christians until Jesus returns (see John 14:26). Remember what we should have learned in Second Corinthians. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). (See also John 14:21-23). The message has not changed. Christians are compelled to become more like Jesus – not like the world. 

    As Peter continued, he wanted them to understand that once becoming a Christian, one was not finished – for there is a growing process that must take place. Recall to memory what we should have already learned about Christianity: Paul compared it to a race. See the following to remember this. “24. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27. But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). Notice that it implies a continual moving forward, striving for the goal at the end. With that moving forward, Paul said he kept his body in subjection. He understood the importance of keeping his life true to the Word of God so that he would never lose that Christian testimony. However, he also understood it took much work, and he knew it was a continual process of moving forward in his relationship with Jesus. See the following to remember this. “12. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14). He continually moved forward in his growth in Christ. Have you ever heard the saying that “if you are not moving forward, you are moving backward”? It is very true. If Christians do not continually read their Bible, pray, and live according to God’s Word, they digress in that growing process, becoming ineffective Christians.

    Peter and Paul both recognized the importance of Christians continually striving to become more like Christ.

    Have you made a commitment to strive to become more like Christ?

  • To Live is Christ

    “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
    Philippians 1:21

    Paul wrote a letter to Philemon. Philemon was a Christian and a fellow laborer with Paul and Timothy. “Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints” (Philemon 1:5). Philemon was a faithful Christian, and Paul acknowledged the love and faith revealed in his life. Paul prayed for him. “6. That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother” (Philemon 1:6-7). Paul specifically wrote Philemon of the importance not only telling of others of his faith in Christ, but he also encouraged him to live a life of faith. By living a life that pleased Christ, he was to understand that it encouraged other believers. This is important for Christians to recognize today, too.

    Previously, Paul had written words of encouragement to help the church at Philippi to live more Christ-like. These words are just as important for Christians, today. “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment” (Philippians 1:9). Christians are called to love fellow Believers. However, it is important to understand a few things. The following definitions will help understand what Paul was trying to help them understand.

    • Knowledge means “the knowledge which enables one to avoid error.”
    • Judgment means “knowledge based upon experience; to become cognizant of; experiential knowledge which is or becomes naturally manifold.”

    It is important to avoid error, and often times that comes from becoming aware of situations. He wanted them to know God’s Word and become Christ-like enough to be able to avoid certain things.

    In these things, Paul wanted them to continue growing as they had. Why? “That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ” (Philippians 1:10).

    • Approve means “to put to the proof, or examine by examining and judging; to distinguish.” 
    • Sincere means “to discern.”

    Paul wanted the Christians at Philippi to recognize the things that really mattered “things that are excellent.” By knowing them, they would be able to live more Christ-like, self-checking and discerning right from wrong, without failing. Because Paul loved them, he wanted to encourage and teach them. Each Christian is called to continue to grow in Christ.

    Paul understood that the people at Philippi were concerned for Paul and his safety. The things that had happened to Paul, although they appeared to be bad, Paul understood that they were actually good. Remember when Paul was in Philippi: he cast a spirit of divination out of a young girl, healing her, and it cost him a beating and imprisonment. Nevertheless, that imprisonment, dealt with in the right spirit, was beneficial for a man and his family who came to know Jesus. Because Paul and Silas praised God through song, and the jailer heard, they were able to be a witness to him. Once the jailer heard about Jesus, he was saved and his house. Paul wanted the Philippians to recall this event. “12. But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; 13. So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; 14. And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear” (Philippians 1:12-14). As we have learned, that was not the only time Paul was beaten or imprisoned. However, any thing that happened to Paul that the world would call “bad” or “unlucky,” God used it to further the Gospel message in the way Paul responded in each situation. Instead of becoming afraid of what man could, or would, do to him, he became bolder in speaking out for Jesus – “without fear.”

    Paul was a mighty example. Read what he not only believed, but also lived: “20. According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. 21. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:20-21). Instead of choosing what he wanted for his life, he chose to live his life for Jesus.

    Have you chosen to live for Christ, that in nothing you shall be ashamed?

  • No Common Ground

    “17. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”
    2 Corinthians 6:17-18

    Paul loved the church at Corinth and poured his heart and life into them as he taught them how to live faithfully, pleasing Christ. We found that Paul taught each Christian to be an ambassador for Christ, representing Him to the world (see 2 Corinthians 5:20-21). Paul continued teaching the Corinthians by reminding them that it is an individual choice as to how to live. He challenged the Corinthian Christians by bringing further instruction on how to live a Christ-like life. 

    Christians must separate from things contrary to God. “14. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15. And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15).  

    • Righteousness means “the state commanded by God and standing the test of His judgment; God’s uprightness or standard to which man is expected to conform.” 
    • Unrighteousness means “lawlessness; the violation of God’s divinely instituted Law; sin; iniquity; although there may not be a specific law against depraved or lustful desires, they are still sin.”
    • Communion means “fellowship with; participation.”

    Paul began by encouraging each Believer to understand that they were to not fellowship with, or even participate with, those who live contrary to God’s Word (this includes friendships with, business partnerships with, or even marriage to, unsaved people). Christians must recognize that there is no common ground between them and the lost. Instead, see what Paul wrote they were to do. “17. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17-18). Come out means “to depart from someone’s presence, the intimacy.” Touch not the unclean thing means “to have no dealings with the heathens (non-believers).” The message had not changed – for just as in the Old Testament God called for His people to separate from the nations around, God calls for Christians to separate from the lost world around. Did you notice the promises God gave?  “… and I will receive you, 18. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters…” (2 Corinthians 6:17b-18). Father means “God as the creator, preserver, governor of all men and things, watching over them with paternal love and care.” Understand that Christians are the children of God. He is able to be a loving Father to us when we live right, but He must be a disciplining Father when we choose to live contrary to His Word (see Hebrews 12:5-8).  

    What is a Christian who lives here in this world to do? Cleanse and eliminate. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). First, understand the promise God gave: He will be a Father, the one who protects and watches over Believers with love and care. That should give any Christian the courage to choose to do what is right: “cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit.” Cleanse means “to purify from the pollution and guilt of sin – in a spiritual sense.” Christians are to remember that once Jesus has entered into the heart, “filthiness of the flesh and spirit” must be eliminated. Filthiness means “anything that defiles (to make unclean or impure).” Any sin is unacceptable.       

    Christians must correct their lives. Paul understood this would be difficult (see 2 Corinthians 7:4).

    Is correction necessary? 

    Does correction often go unheeded? 

    Does anyone really like to be told they are doing something wrong?

    Paul had a difficult decision – allow sin to continue, or confront the problem and encourage the people to eliminate the sin that separates from a right Christian life. Paul had great confidence that the church at Corinth would receive this instruction, living a better life before God – as ambassadors representing Christ. He also understood their initial reaction would probably be anger, but once they understood and repented, they would be better Christians. “For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter” (2 Corinthians 7:11). Use the following definitions to help you understand this verse: 

    • Carefulness means “earnest effort; diligence.” 
    • Clearing of yourselves means “to give an answer or speech in defense of oneself.” 
    • Indignation means “to be under a great burden which results in indignation (holy displeasure in oneself for sin).”  
    • Fear means “reverence; respect; honor.” 
    • Vehement desire means “strong affection; to desire earnestly.”
    • Zeal means “used in a good sense means to be hot or fervent.” 
    • Revenge means “penal retribution or vengeance to the evildoer.” 
    • Approved means “to make known; declare; to show.” 
    • Clear means “innocent; blameless; pure.”
    • Matter means “the thing being done or to be done; matter; business.”  

    These things are what the Corinthian Christians achieved because they received and obeyed Paul’s instruction of how to live a Christ-like life. 

    Are you willing to obey God’s Word, putting away sin and the unclean thing, choosing instead to become Christ’s Ambassador?

  • Paul’s Encouragement and Warning

    “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.”
    Romans 15:1

    Excerpt from Y3Q2 Lesson 10: Paul’s Third Missionary Journey:

    “The leaders in the church of Ephesus, of whom Paul had called to himself to speak, needed to realize that Paul would no longer be there physically to rely upon. They had to step up and take care of God’s church. “… 27. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 28. 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 20:25-28). Paul had done the job God had given him to do: he declared to all of the people the counsel of God (counsel means “God’s purpose, or plan”). He had taught them. Knowing that Paul would not be able to return to them, these men had to be prepared. “29. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:29-30). They must not only be prepared themselves, but they must take care of, and prepare, the church over which they were the leaders. Not only would some (“grievous wolves”) come in and try to destroy new Christians, as well as the church, but also there would be leaders arise that would be filled with “perverse things” (perverse things means “perverted; corrupt; vicious; or ‘to turn aside divine truth’”). Some leaders would try to cause people to follow them – not Jesus. What were they to do? “31. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. 32. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified” (Acts 20:31-32). They were to do just as Paul had done – for he had lived his life as an example. Paul warned that after teaching the new Christians how to live a Christian life (following Jesus), they would then have to warn the people, day and night, of these “grievous wolves” who would come “speaking perverse things” and to recognize them. Also, see what else Paul revealed. “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Support means “to take hold of another mutually as by the hand; i.e. figuratively to support from falling as by the hand; to support, help, assist.” Weak means “without strength, powerless; weak; to be afflicted, distressed as by want, oppression, calamity, and such.” Newer Christians (as well as newer churches) need extra support, for they are weak in their new Christian life. Many new Christians (and even some older ones) are often afflicted and distressed by their want (things they desire, or want, as opposed to things God would have for them), or even what seems to be a calamity in their life. Paul warned that these people needed “support from falling as by the hand,” or assistance, from stronger Christians.

    “After teaching them face-to-face one last time … one cannot help but recognized the impact that Paul had upon these Christians’ lives. These people loved Paul for the life he had lived, faithfully teaching them the things of Jesus.

    “A Deeper Path: It is the responsibilities of church leaders to help new Christians (those who are “weak”) grow in Christ. However, it is not only the responsibility of the leaders, but it is the duty of all Christians. See the following verses. “1. We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification” (Romans 15:1-2). That are strong means “one who is strong, firm, fixed, established” – referring to the things of Christ. Infirmities means “to be weak or powerless; the result of being weak: i.e. referring to the scruples which arise by being weak in the faith of Jesus.” As Christians, we are not to please ourselves, for we must always remember that there are newer Christians who may not understand the things we do – for a newer Christian may not always know what the right thing to do in a situation is. It is the responsibility of every Christian to live a life according to God’s Word, so that newer Christians are not confused. We are to live a life that is right “for his good to edification.” Good means “good, in respect to operation or influence on others; i.e.: useful, profitable, beneficial.” Edification means “building as a process; i.e.: edification, spiritual profit or advancement.” Christians are to live lives that cause other Christians to become better Christians by living a life that pleases Jesus.”

    Do you live a Christian life that helps newer Christians understand how to please Jesus, growing stronger?

  • Great is Thy Faithfulness

    “22. It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
    Lamentations 3:22-23

    Today is a day of uncertainty. The news is full of earthquakes, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, illnesses, the possibility of food shortages, wars and rumors of wars, and so many other things of which to be fearful. This leads to much apprehension in the world today. I have never known a time when so many people are anxious about almost everything. The constant onslaught can be almost overwhelming!

    Why should a Christian not be afraid?

    What does God’s Word teach us about fear? We are to remember that God is with us. “1. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3. Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof” (Psalm 46:1-3). If we walk with God, He will be with us.

    Jeremiah was a prophet who spoke God’s Word to the Israelite people for around forty years. The people were not walking with God, and it was a time of much trouble in the land. Eventually, the enemies came, destroyed Jerusalem, and carried the people away captive. Jeremiah witnessed these events. Although he had warned the people of the coming invasion, they had not heeded his warnings to turn back to God. The whole nation suffered because of this – even Jeremiah. Understandably, Jeremiah was greatly saddened with these events. Jeremiah wrote the following as he witnessed God’s judgment upon His people for their continual rejection of His Word: “The LORD is righteous; for I have rebelled against his commandment: hear, I pray you, all people, and behold my sorrow …” (Lamentations 1:18a). He wrote the book of Lamentations, revealing the horrors he witnessed, and the sorrow in his heart. Yet in the midst of that sad book, he reminded us of a very pleasant hope. “22. It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him” (Lamentations 3:22-25). Jeremiah knew God was with him. He understood that God is a forgiving God – even when we fail Him miserably! Have you heard the song we often sing in churches written from these verses? Great is Thy Faithfulness. Read the following encouraging words:

    “1. Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee;

    Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not; As Thou has been Thou forever wilt be.

    2. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

    Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

    Refrain: Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see;

    All I have needed Thy hand hath provided; Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me! Amen!”

    It is easy to constantly be distracted by the relentless onslaught of bad news. As one hears the new potential crisis almost every day, it is hard to focus one’s thoughts upon God and the things of God. When we forget God and begin to focus upon the troubles of the world, the problems can appear to be overwhelming. It is before one reaches this point that a decision must be made. What must a Christian decide? To trust God! It is then that when all of the troubles of the world seem to come against us, we can stop and be at rest knowing God is in control. “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10). We will then remember that God will take care of His own. “5. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil” (Proverbs 3:5-7). We are to fear the Lord, doing what His Word says to do. That should be rather easy – for if we walk with God, we will depart from evil.

    Christians should not be so entangled in the troubles of the day that one forgets to walk with (and especially trust) God. Turn off the news and read the Bible. Remember: “… his compassions fail not. 23. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23). Also keep in mind: “The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him” (Lamentations 3:25). It is important for Christians to seek the Lord and not the potential troubles of the day.

    Do you seek the Lord, understanding that if we walk with Him, He will be faithful?

  • Be Faithful

    “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful”
    1 Corinthians 4:2

    God has a special plan for each Christian’s life. It is important to read God’s Word (Bible), hearing from God, to learn what that plan is. It is then a choice to either follow God’s plan for that life, or choose to disregard what God has planned. There are many examples of this in the Bible. Consider the following events.

    Saul had been with the religious leaders when Stephen was stoned because he spoke of Jesus. In Acts chapter nine, we read that Saul went to Damascus to find anyone who followed Jesus so he could take them bound to Jerusalem. “And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went …” (Acts 9:1). However, on the way, Saul saw the glory of the Lord revealed to him and was told to go to Damascus and wait. It is here that we are introduced to a “certain disciple at Damascus” whose name was Ananias. He lived in Damascus at this time. The Lord came to Ananias in a vision, and told him to go, “… and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12. And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight” (Acts 9:11-12). 

    Once again God called one of his disciples (a Christian) to go and speak His Words to one particular individual (remember Philip who was sent to the Ethiopian Eunuch). Saul would be expecting Ananias to come see him. What did Ananias do? “13. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14. And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name” (Acts 9:13-14). Ananias was understandably afraid. He had heard of Saul. He also knew what Saul was doing to anyone who believed in Jesus. “But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15). Chosen vessel means “a person as the instrument of usefulness for someone.” God had plans for Saul – just as He has plans for each person who belongs to Him. God told Ananias what His plans for Saul were – to tell the Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel about Jesus.

    Ananias was asked to do something very difficult. He had a choice to make. Obey God, or walk away in fear. “And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight …” (Acts 9:17). Recognize that Ananias trusted in God, more than he was afraid of Saul. Ananias believed the Lord when He said that Saul was a chosen vessel for God, and he greeted Saul as, “Brother Saul.” What happened to Saul? He received his sight. This sight was more than physical sight. Read how Saul (later called Paul) described the lost condition of a life apart from Jesus and His Gospel message: “3. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4. In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. 5. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:3-6). Saul’s (Paul’s) eyes and his heart had been blinded. Yet he received the Truth of God’s Word and believed. He not only believed in Jesus, but he became a servant who told many others about Christ Jesus the Lord. What did Saul do after he believed in Jesus and received his sight? “And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God” (Acts 9:20). There was a change that took place in Saul’s heart that was pictured in his life when he was blinded and then received his sight. He had been brought out of the darkness into the “light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

    This is a great testimony to the faithfulness of Ananias. He chose to go speak to Saul – just as the Lord had told him to do. This event should encourage us never to be afraid to obey God’s will. “1. Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:1-2). The mystery of God is the introduction into the truths of the Gospel message. Never undervalue the importance of sharing the Gospel message with one individual who may be brought to Christ. Saul (Paul) was important to God.

    Are you a faithful steward of the mysteries of God, willing to share the Gospel message when God asks?

    How to be Saved

  • We are His Workmanship

    “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
    Ephesians 2:10

    John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by preaching repentance. In that message, John was preparing the people’s hearts to understand their need for Jesus. After John the Baptist introduced the people to Jesus, read what happened. “35. Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; 36. And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!” (John 1:35-36). John again declared Jesus as the Lamb of God. “And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus” (John 1:37). Recognize that these men left John the Baptist to follow the One for which John had come to prepare the way. John had done His job: he had directed the people’s attention to the Savior of the world, Jesus. These men left John, and they followed Jesus.

    “38. Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? 39. He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day … 40. One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother” (John 1:38-40). John’s disciples called Jesus Rabbi (Master); yet another indication that they had turned their focus from John to Jesus. They were ready to hear the teachings of Jesus now that they had met Him. Rabbi means “a doctor, teacher, master; a title of honor in the Jewish schools.” After Andrew believed in Jesus, he immediately found his brother, Simon (Peter), and took him to meet Jesus.

    “The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me” (John 1:43). Jesus called Philip, too. What did Philip do? “Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (John 1:45). Philip recognized who this man was that called him. Philip understood that Jesus was the Promised One that Moses and the prophets had written about in the Old Testament. Immediately he went and found Nathanael to bring him to Jesus. (Remember, that is what Andrew had done. Andrew immediately went and found his brother, Simon.) Today, when a person meets Jesus, becoming a Christian, the immediate response should be to introduce others to Jesus, too.

    Nathanael was a skeptic – at first. Nevertheless, after Jesus told him where he had been, Nathanael believed. Remember that each person has the choice – to believe or not to believe. Nathanael believed.

    Many people followed Jesus because they wanted to hear His teachings – so many that they crowded Him. Jesus saw the empty ships, and asked Simon to thrust the ship out a little from the shore. Jesus taught the people from the ship. After finishing teaching, Jesus told Simon (Peter) to go out to the deep water and throw out their nets again to fish. Simon (Peter) initially objected – but then he obeyed Jesus. They caught so many fish that their nets broke, and then both ships began to sink because of the number of fish caught. How did Peter respond? “8. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. 9. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken” (Luke 5:8-9). Especially notice that Peter was not the only one affected by this miraculous catch of fish. “10. And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. 11. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him” (Luke 5:10-11). It was at this point that these four men forsook their old occupation as fishermen of fish, and followed Jesus as fishers of men. If you notice, it said, “they forsook all.” In Matthew, chapter four it tells us that James and John were working with their father. They left him, too. 

    People were trying not only to hear Jesus’ teachings, but also to be healed. Many people followed Jesus. He was drawing the people from a religious practice to a commitment of the heart – a heart committed to Jesus. Jesus saw the need of the people. Read what Jesus did. “12. And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. 13. And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles” (Luke 6:12-13). Apostle means “an ambassador; it indicates the distinctive relation of the 12 men Jesus chose to be His witnesses of Him before the world.” This was the third call of these men. They were initially called to believe in Jesus. Then they were called to follow Jesus. Finally, Jesus called them for a special purpose – to be His apostles.

    Just as Jesus called the twelve disciples (Apostles) for a special purpose, when someone today is saved (asks Jesus into their heart), Jesus has a special purpose for them as well. “8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:8, 10). Not only are Christians His workmanship (workmanship means “the result of work; something produced; something made”), but God has before ordained (before ordained means “to make ready beforehand; used of God’s foreordaining for good, referring to glory and good works”) that new Christian to walk in that new life Jesus has for them. Jesus has a job for each Christian.

    Have you believed in Jesus, becoming a Christian?

    Do you follow Jesus and His teachings?

    Have you recognized the job that Jesus has for your life?

    How to be Saved