The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Christian

  • Thoroughly Furnished

    “That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
    2 Timothy 3:17

    After learning of Paul and his missionary journeys in the book of Acts, we can read the letters he wrote to the Gentile churches – many of which he started while on those missionary journeys recorded in the book of Acts. When we study these letters, we begin to recognize a pattern that develops. This pattern is revealed in an important verse found in Second Timothy. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).  Look at this verse more in depth by using the following definitions to help in the understanding of it: 

    • Scripture means “every part of the whole and all of it together; that which has been written once and for all and constitutes the final authority of God’s revelation.”
    • Given by inspiration of God means “prompted by God; divinely inspired; appears only in 2 Timothy 3:16.”
    • Profitable means “to be useful, profitable, or advantageous.”
    • Doctrine means “teaching or instruction with the meaning of warning.”
    • Reproof means “to convict; in the sense of refutation of adversaries; not merely the charge on the basis of which one is convicted, but the manifestation of the truth of that charge and the results to be reaped; the acknowledgement of its truth on the part of the accused.”
    • Correction means “to set right again; to correct or make straight.”
    • Instruction means “to instruct; rectification; including discipline.”

    Recognize that this verse cites the four benefits (profitableness) of the Word of God: doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction. The different parts of this verse reveal that each of these components are interdependent and are all necessary in the process of sanctification of a Christian’s life. First, the Word of God is presented as doctrine or instruction as in authoritative teaching. Then as truth, which is ethically persuasive, convincing one of error. Next, it places that person in a correct moral position, which allows one to be brought to the final place where that one can be provided the discipline, chastisement, or training needed to bring about righteousness. This verse summarizes the third division of the New Testament:  Romans – 2 Thessalonians. It is with this insight that Paul spent much of his time writing to the new churches, so that they would know how to become righteous.

    Remember theses letters of Paul that are important for each Christian to study:

    • Romans: the teaching of doctrine,
    • 1 and 2 Corinthians: reproof for failure to live right,
    • Galatians: correction, rectifying wrong doctrine that had permeated the church,
    • Ephesians: the revealing of deeper doctrinal truths intended for growing Christians,
    • Philippians: reproof for wrong living, the rectifying of a potential problem,
    • Colossians: correction to rectify wrong doctrine,
    • 1 and 2 Thessalonians: the teaching of doctrine and instructions.   

    Did you notice the pattern of how these books, or letters, can be used as doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction? As we read about the churches as they received these letters from Paul, some of them immediately put into practice what was taught therein. When that happened, we read that Paul received encouraging words about the growth of the churches. After reading theses letters (books), can you recognize the different stages of implementation each one was designed to teach? Remember, that these books (letters) are for Christians to use even today. Remember what the very next verse in Second Timothy says. “That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:17). The words throughly furnished means “to equip fully; completely.” This is the purpose of God’s Word. To equip Christians completely to be able to do what God wants us to do.

    Do you read understanding that all Scripture, when it is implemented into one’s life, will furnish you unto all good works?

  • Jesus, our Redeemer

    “But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.”
    Ephesians 2:13

    In the book of Ruth, after reading about Ruth and Boaz, we see the parallel to the redemption Jesus did for us on the cross. Ruth was drawn to God and His people. She found out about a kinsman redeemer; Ruth was to go to him, uncover his feet, and lie down, and he would tell her what to do. The same thing happens when we come to Christ. Notice the ones who came to Jesus’ feet and what He did for them. “And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus’ feet; and he healed them” (Matthew 15:30). When they believed, they were not only healed but redeemed (saved).   

    God brings us to Him (sometimes through unusual circumstances):

    “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith” (Galatians 3:24). There is another verse to see. “12. That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13. But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:12–13).

    Jesus is our Redeemer:

    “The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate” (Psalm 34:22). There is another verse to see. “13. Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14. In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:13–14).  

    God reveals the need for redemption, if only we will ask:

    “6. They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; 7. None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him: 8. (For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever)” (Psalm 49:6–8). See also the following. “Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6). There are more verses to see. “8. But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:8–10).

    God reveals the price for redemption was paid by Jesus’ death on the cross and we are then made His own:

    “18. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19. But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20. Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you” (1 Peter 1:18–20). See also: “8. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement” (Romans 5:8–11).  

    Why and what should we do?

    “11. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12. Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13. Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14. Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:11–14). Then we are to show the world what Jesus can do for them. “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me” (Acts 26:18).

    Have you believed in Jesus by faith, having then been redeemed, becoming a Christian?

    How to be Saved

  • Stand and Learn to Trust

    “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.”
    Proverbs 29:25

    Esther is an amazing book in the Bible. One cannot read the name of God in the book (except in hidden places). Yet, God moves in unobvious ways in the affairs of men to bring about the salvation of His people. As you read the events, one can recognize a few noticeable things.

    Mordecai is the cousin of the young woman who became the Persian King Ahasuerus’s queen. Her name was Esther. Mordecai had raised her after her parents died. Mordecai had not revealed that he was a Jew in Shushan, and had told Esther not to reveal that she was a Jew. However, there was a day when Mordecai was told he must bow to Haman, the enemy of the Jews (see Esther 3:10). “Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai’s matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew” (Esther 3:4). It was then that Mordecai chose to stand. He would not bow to Haman, the enemy of God’s people.

    Shortly after this, Haman lied to the king about the Jewish people and convinced him to make a law to kill all of the Jewish people. When Mordecai heard, he cried and fasted. When Queen Esther heard of Mordecai’s condition, she sent clothes asking why he was crying and fasting. He sent a copy of the law to Queen Esther. He told her she needed to go to the king and ask for the lives of her people, the Jews. Esther understood the Persian law – if she went to the king without first being called, he could have her put to death. Mordecai encouraged her that she could not keep her peace at this time saying, “… and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14b). What was Esther’s reply to Mordecai? “… And so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16b). Esther then fasted for three days (most likely asking for God’s wisdom and mercy).  

    For those who have read the events, you know that Esther went to the king and he did not kill her. Esther risked her life, willing to die, and was able to save her people from death. Reading the timing of the events that took place, one cannot help but recognize God moving in the events of these people at this time and place in history, bringing about the salvation of his people from certain death.

    What does this have to do with a Christian who lives in the world today?

    There is a point in each Christian’s life that they must stand. They are to stand for the Lord and His people, against the enemy of God’s people. “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13). Christians are to watch, stand fast in the faith, and be strong. How is a Christian to stand for Biblical principles? “That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:5). It is then that we are to remember some amazing things.

    In each of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), Jesus said some very important things that we should recognize and implement into our lives.

    • “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it” (Matthew 16:25).
    • “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it” (Mark 8:35).
    • “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it” (Luke 9:24).
    • “He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal” (John 12:25).

    What is a Christian to do with this information? Recognize the following: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). A Christian’s life is no longer their own, it belongs to Christ who died for that life.

    Christians are not to live in fear of man, but place their trust in the Lord. “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe” (Proverbs 29:25). Esther trusted God, and she was able to save her people.

    Have you learned to stand, not saving your own life, but losing your life for Jesus’ sake?

  • The Preaching of the Cross

    “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”
    1 Corinthians 1:18

    Many times in the Old Testament, we read of the promise of Jesus. No one knew His name, yet God’s people were to be looking for Him the same. At times, God revealed specific things He wanted the people to understand. “Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high” (Isaiah 52:13). “Behold, my servant” is speaking of Jesus. God said Jesus would “deal prudently” meaning Jesus would succeed in completing what God expected Him to do. Continuing through that verse, see that it says that Jesus will be “exalted and extolled” which means “to raise, or lift up; to carry off; take away; it is the idea of one who is a substitution bearing the guilt or punishment of sin.” So just from that one verse we understand that God told Isaiah that He would send Jesus who would complete the task of being lifted up as the one who would take away the guilt and punishment of sin by becoming the substitute – the one who took sinful man’s place. This is what God had promised Adam and Eve in the garden (see Genesis 3:15).

    They were to be aware of the suffering death that this One would have to endure. Remember that when Jesus came, He was scourged and delivered to be crucified (see Matthew 27:26, 29-30). Why did this happen? “So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider” (Isaiah 52:15). Understand that this verse tells us that Jesus’ death would enable Him to “sprinkle” many nations. “Sprinkle many nations” means “to cleanse from sin; the Servant of the Lord came to make an atonement for the sins of even the Gentiles.” In the Old Testament, the people understood the high priest had to sprinkle the blood of the ram upon the altar to cover their sins for another year (see Exodus 29:20). God sent His Son to take away the sin (not cover), and allowed the entire world to “see” and then to “consider.” “See” means “to gain understanding”; and “consider” means “to observe; to pay attention to; to gain insight or understanding.” Each person has to see and decide (believe) for himself.

    Immediately after Jesus death, burial, and resurrection, there were still many who did not understand what had happened, and many did not believe Jesus had even risen from the dead. There were two in particular who were on the road to Emmaus, not far from Jerusalem. On the evening of Jesus’ resurrection, they were walking and discussing all they had heard. Jesus joined them, walking and talking with them, yet they did not recognize Him (see Luke 24:15-16). When He asked what things they were discussing, they explained, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: 20. And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21. But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done” (Luke 24:19b-21). They were trying to “consider” but did not yet understand. After walking with them, listening to them as they continue their discussion, Jesus responded: “25. Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: 26. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? 27. And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:25-27). They needed to believe, by faith. “But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness” (Romans 4:5).   

    It is almost amazing to those today, who are Believers, to understand how they could not have recognized Jesus. However, many times in the Old Testament people should have understood and recognized what God was doing, yet they most of the time, they did not. All throughout the Old Testament, the people were taught of God, but they had a hard time understanding that He had been speaking of Jesus, who was to come. They lacked faith.

    “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18). See the following to help understand what this verse means: 

    • preaching means to speak intelligently about the word of the cross 
    • cross means the whole passion of Christ and the merit of His sufferings and death 
    • them that perish means exposed to eternal death 
    • foolishness means foolishness or absurdity
    • saved means those who have obtained salvation through Christ and are kept by Him 
    • power means a person in whom the power of God is manifested  

    The “power of God” was revealed when Jesus came and finished what God had for Him to do. Jesus came to pay the penalty for sin, taking it away from any who would only believe.

    Have you believed the preaching of the cross, becoming a Christian?

    How to be Saved

  • The Biblical Path of Life

    “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” Psalm 16:11

    Do you read the Bible?  Do you understand what you read when you do take time to read it?

    The Bible is the Word of God. It has been preserved for us to read, but very few people read and understand what the Bible has to say to us today. According to most statistics, young people are growing up and leaving the church and faith in God by the droves. The main reason can be found in the lack of knowledge and understanding of what one believes about God and why. Not many people take time to gain the information only found in the Bible that one needs to live in today’s world.

    Growing up in a Christian home is no guarantee that one understands the Bible, or knows how to live a Christian life. Being saved as a young child, I learned many Bible “stories,” but it wasn’t until later that I began to understand how all of these stories fit together. When I saw a timeline throughout Bible history, it helped me begin to understand how all of those “stories” were connected together. I also began to understand that Jesus was planned from the beginning of time to redeem mankind because of sin. I wanted to know and understand more of the Bible, so I began to study.

    The most important thing about studying the Bible should be to learn the basics of the Bible and how it should be applied to Christians’ lives. A good Bible study needs to be more than a compilation of “stories” we have always heard. The word “story” even brings to the hearers’ mind that they are make-believe. Many people do not even understand that the Bible is not just a compilation of popular Bible “stories” or favorite Bible passages. The Bible is not full of “stories” but actual events in real people’s lives. Children, as well as adults, need to understand that each of these events all fit together as part of a bigger picture – much like pieces of a puzzle. Not only do these events interlock, but they also have a purpose: to reveal Jesus and why He came.

    It is very important to read God’s Word and be in a good Bible study where you can learn more about Jesus. One important goal each Christian should have is to know and understand more about the Bible. The more you learn about the Bible, the more you begin to understand that it is so much more than just a collection of events in people’s lives that lived long ago. In the Bible Study called The Biblical Path of Life, you can search and find out why the people who lived in the Old Testament times wanted to obey God. You can learn how they knew He would one day send Jesus. It is there one can see what happened to His people when they obeyed God’s Word, and even what happened when they forgot God’s Word. As you read the New Testament, you begin to recognize when people began to understand that Jesus was the One who was to come (the one promised in the Old Testament). These events will be an encouragement to you, for it is then that one can understand God is with those who love Him, seek to please Him, and that God takes care of His people. “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psalm 16:11). It is then that one begins to understand how to live a Christian life pleasing to God in the world today. The Bible means nothing to us if we do not apply the principles within to our lives to become more like Christ.

    All people, especially children, are capable of learning so much more. The Biblical Path of Life is one such study meant to simplify the understanding of the Bible making it relevant to a Christian’s life — young or old — by comparing Scripture to Scripture. Christians should understand just how important their Bible is and become familiar with it. Everyone should understand the importance of reading God’s Word!

    Even beginning readers should be encouraged to read their Bible. At first, even the youngest readers will be hesitant to read. Nevertheless, with a little encouragement and help, they can become excited about reading their Bible. No one is too young (or old) to begin to love the Word of God or to learn the principles found within God’s Word!

    In order to encourage people to know more of the Bible, I have posted blogs to motivate people to dig a little deeper into their Bible’s and study. Feedspot has recognized www.biblicalpath.com as one of the top 100 Bible Study Blogs. My hope is that by being listed here, many more people will be encouraged to read and understand what God’s Word has for people who are searching in these days.

    Do you take time to read your Bible, discovering God’s plan in these days?

    How to be Saved

  • Do You Love the Wages of Unrighteousness?

    “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
    Matthew 6:21

    Have you ever encountered one called a Christian, who chooses the ways and riches of this present world instead of walking a Christ-like life? This brings to mind a very real man named Balaam from the book of Numbers in the Old Testament.

    Balak, king of Moab, (along with all of the Moabites) were afraid of the Israelites, God’s people. Balak sent for Balaam. He wanted Balaam to curse God’s people. Balak had heard that whomever Balaam cursed was cursed, and whomever he blessed was blessed. Balak sent money with men to give Balaam as payment to come to him and curse the Israelites. God spoke to Balaam and told him not to go with the men and not to curse God’s people, for they were a blessed people. Balaam told the princes of Balak to go home. God would not allow him to go with them.

    Balak sent more men to tell him not to let anything keep him from coming to him – even giving promises of great honor. “And Balaam answered and said unto the servants of Balak, If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the word of the LORD my God, to do less or more” (Numbers 22:18). Yet Balaam told the men to stay the night, and wait to see what God would tell him that night. “And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do” (Numbers 22:20).

    God had already told Balaam not to go. God’s people were only to be blessed, for they were a blessed people. Yet when Balaam was offered honor, a house full of silver and gold, he told the men to wait. Why is that? Do you think he was hoping God would let him go so he could have all of that honor and gold? That night, God told him to go. Do you think that maybe this could have been a test to see what was in Balaam’s heart? Balaam went. “And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the LORD stood in the way for an adversary against him …” (Numbers 22:22a). Balaam heard what God said, but he was not listening to what God had told him. God was angry with him for going.

    Balaam rode his donkey, heading to see Balak, king of Moab. The donkey saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, but Balaam did not. The donkey understood that he was not to continue forward. Balaam was angry at his donkey, and began to hit the donkey when it sat down (Numbers 22:23). The donkey was trying to save his master’s life. God opened the mouth of that donkey, and he spoke to Balaam. And Balaam answered the donkey. He told the donkey that if he had a sword in his hand, he would kill him. “Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face” (Numbers 22:31). The angel told Balaam that if it hadn’t been for the donkey, he would have been killed. Why? “…behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me” (Numbers 22: 32b). Balaam was not supposed to go to speak with King Balak. The angel of the Lord told Balaam to go on to see King Balak, but only speak the words God gave him to speak. Balaam went, told King Balak God’s Words, and blessed God’s people.

    If the events ended here, it might have seemed good. Nevertheless, at some point, Balaam gave King Balak counsel of the way to cause the Israelites to trespass against the Lord (Numbers 31:16). Balaam had not obeyed God. He was to have only spoken the words God gave him to King Balak. He chose to do disobey God, apparently greedy for reward and wages.

    Read the insight about the life of Balaam in the New Testament: “15. Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; 16. But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbad the madness of the prophet. 17. … to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. 18. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness … 19. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage” (2 Peter 2:15-19). He loved the wages of unrighteousness, and people like him allure through the lusts of the flesh, wantonness, promising liberty, but they are servants of corruption. They end up in bondage. 

    Another insight we read in the New Testament about Balaam: “10. But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. 11. Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. 12. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots” (Jude 1:10-12). It declares that Balaam was in error and went after reward. His end was described as “twice dead, plucked up by the roots.”

    Would you want to be remembered as one who loved the wages of unrighteousness, ending up twice dead?

    How to be Saved

  • Faithful Stewards

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

    There are many people in our lives with whom we become acquainted. However, one must be cautious that those we spend the most time with have a true knowledge of Jesus and a love for God’s Word. We are to understand that words alone do not make one a child of God. A very dangerous position in which to be is to be one who does not hold the truth of salvation. What is the condition of those who do not have a true knowledge of Jesus? “12. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; 13. Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever” (Jude 1:12-13). When one does not hold the truth of salvation, they might just look and sound like a Christian, yet they have never known the truth of the Gospel message. What a sad place to be! Remember the warning Jesus gave: “21. 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. 22. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23. And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:21-23).

    Remember an event in the New Testament to help one understand this better.

    Paul had met a couple, Aquila and Priscilla, while on his second missionary journey in the city of Corinth. Paul taught in the synagogue every Sabbath, teaching the people that Jesus was the Christ (the Messiah that had come to take away the sin of anyone who would believe). Eventually, the chief ruler of the synagogue “believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed” (see Acts 18:8). Paul stayed there for a time, teaching the Word of God to the people. When he left Corinth, Priscilla and Aquila went with him until he reached Ephesus where they stayed while Paul continued on his journey.

    While Priscilla and Aquila were there, a man came. “And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus” (Acts 18:24). See what else God’s Word says of Apollos. “This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John” (Acts 18:25). One has to stop for a minute to remember what it means by the “baptism of John.” John (also known as John the Baptist) was preaching repentance, calling for people to be baptized, preparing them to receive Jesus when He came. John the Baptist’s job was to “make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (see Luke 1:17b). This meant that he was to introduce Jesus to the people as the Messiah (the Christ) for whom they had been waiting. “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Somehow, Apollos missed that part of the message. He only knew of the baptism to repentance, but missed that Jesus was the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world. He had knowledge of much of the Scripture, but he was missing the key part – Jesus. Repentance of sin was important, but it was meaningless unless one understood that Jesus was the One who took the sin from the individual, giving salvation.

    What was Apollos doing with the information of the baptism to repentance that was taught by John the Baptist? “And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly” (Acts 18:26). When Aquila and Priscilla heard that what Apollos was teaching was missing the most important part (Jesus), they went to him and “expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” What does that mean? They explained to Apollos that Jesus was the Christ. “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name” (John 20:31). They had to tell Apollos about Jesus. “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). That was the key part of the message that Apollos had not yet heard. However, when Apollos heard, he believed in Jesus. How do we know that he received the message and believed in Jesus? “For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ” (Acts 18:28). Because Aquila and Priscilla were faithful stewards of God’s Word, not only did Apollos believe, but he proceeded to tell others that Jesus was the Christ, too.

    Have you told others that Jesus is the Christ, and that by believing they can have life through His name?

    How to be Saved

  • Examples for Believers

    “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity”
    1 Timothy 4:12

    We can remember back to some of Jesus’ Disciples. They recorded for us their eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ life. They understood the importance of just who Jesus is. They realized the importance of recording the life of Jesus. They had witnessed the events of His life – firsthand! They not only saw, but also understood and believed them.

    Read what John understood about the Word of God. “1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:1, 14). He understood the Word of God was Jesus, who was made flesh (a human), which dwelt among them. The disciples learned from Jesus. Read why John wanted to share his eyewitness account. “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; 2. (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) 3. That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full” (1 John 1:1-4). John saw Jesus, recognized the truth He taught, and because of this, John followed Jesus.

     The followers of Jesus learned much from Him. They not only learned from Him, they then lived those things out in their lives. They began to teach others about Jesus. Paul became one who not only believed in Jesus, but he spent his life telling others about Jesus. One particular young man was Timothy. Paul gave Timothy some encouraging words by which many have been encouraged through the years. “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). Although Timothy was young, Paul encouraged him to be faithful. He was to be an example to all in every aspect of his Christian life.

    John knew Jesus and recorded things we must read to learn and grow in Him. Paul was another one who recorded many things we need to know about living a faithful Christian life. It is important to recognize those who know Jesus. This is part of learning how to understand and use the Word of God correctly. Christians are to recognize teachers today who know Jesus and share what they have learned from the Bible. There are many teachers in the world. We are to listen to the ones who truly know Jesus (are faithful Christians who believe the Bible is God’s Word), who teach the truth of Jesus, and live those principles out in their lives. “7. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation … 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you” (Hebrews 13:7, 17). If they teach, living those truths of the Bible out in their lives, follow them.

    Do you recognize true teachers of God’s Word, and do you submit to their teachings?

  • Believe

    “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”
    Acts 16:31

    An amazing event took place at Philippi while Paul and Silas were there. They were falsely accused, beaten and thrown in prison. The jailer was instructed to keep them safe. So, he threw them into the inner prison and put their feet in the stocks. Read what happened: “25. And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. 26. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed. 27. And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. 28. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here” (Acts 16:25-28). Can you even imagine having a song in your heart after being falsely accused, beaten, and locked in stocks in prison? Yet they not only had a song in their heart, but they sang praises to the Lord loud enough for all of the prisoners to hear – for none of them escaped when their doors opened in the great earthquake. Because the keeper of the prison was responsible for those prisoners with his life, he decided to take his own life himself (probably so other Roman soldiers would not kill him!). See his reaction to seeing that none of the prisoners had escaped. “29. Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, 30. And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:29-30). He wanted what Paul and Silas had – Jesus! “31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. 32. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house” (Acts 16:31-32). Notice that they told this jailer and all of the people in his house. It was important that they hear the Gospel message. Each person has to hear and respond to the Gospel message. What was their response? “And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house” (Acts 16:34).

    This event should be an encouragement to anyone who has chosen to believe the Gospel message, yet that Christian’s family has not yet believed. If one is a Christian but their family is not, it is a sad thing. Christians want their friends and family to have the same salvation that they have found. They would love to have them join them in the journey of the Christian life as they learn and grow. However, it is a personal call and an individual choice. As much as one may share that faith and want them to join, one cannot make them follow. They must believe and follow Christ on their own. This is an important thing to understand. God calls each person into the Christian life, and that individual must respond to that call in affirmation. God calls individuals. Each individual must take action by responding God’s call. However, God wants the family to come to Him. Therefore, it is Christian’s duty to share with his or her family the Gospel message, warning them of the wrath to come. Most importantly, that Christian must live his faith out before them.

    In daily life, we learn that some people come to believe the Gospel message easily, while others have a more difficult time coming to the realization that they are a sinful person who needs a Saviour to deliver them from sin. Nevertheless, they must hear the Gospel message!

    “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).

    Have you believed on the Son?

    Have you shared your faith with your family?

    How to be Saved

  • How to Apply God’s Word

    “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not”
    Jeremiah 33:3

    A Christian is to understand that God’s Word is the Bible. Christians have Bibles and know they are important to have, but one cannot forget the importance of knowing what the Bible says. It was written for Christians. It is imperative that every Christian learn how to use the Bible correctly. In order to realize the best way to apply God’s Word, one must first know it.

    How can one know what God’s Word truly says? “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). It is imperative that a Christian searches the Scriptures daily; knowing if what they are hearing is true according to God’s Word. A great way to do this is to compare Scripture with Scripture. It is then that one can gain a better understand of what God is trying to teach.

    In that searching daily, one is hiding God’s Word in their heart. “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (Psalm 119:11). It is then that one more readily recognizes sin. One learns that God is not pleased when there is sin in that life. That sin must be eliminated.

    When a Christian searches the Bible daily, hiding it in their heart, what is one to do if they do not understand what they read? What if they do not know what to do in a situation? “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not” (Jeremiah 33:3). The word knowest here means “to see; specifically to come to the knowledge of, by seeing, by hearing, and by experience.” God will help one to understand if only one will ask.

    It is at times like these (not understanding or not knowing what to do) that one should know enough to stop, and ask God for help. This brings to mind an event that happened in the Bible. 

    Nehemiah was in a strange land serving a foreign king. When he heard distressing news about his homeland, he was troubled and sad. He knew God’s commands and prayed for God to forgive sin (see Nehemiah 1:4-11). When the king recognized there was something wrong with Nehemiah, he asked what the problem was. Nehemiah told the king he was sad because his homeland lay waste and the gates burned. The king asked what he would request. The Bible tells us that right then and there, Nehemiah prayed to the God of heaven. It was not a long, loud, lengthy prayer. It was an immediate request (not heard aloud) from a child of God to his Father. We do not know what the prayer was, but Nehemiah then had the ability to give the king a wise answer. It was then that the king granted the request. He allowed Nehemiah to go to his homeland and help repair the city’s defenses. However, more than that, the king provided what was needed to make sure the job was completed (see Nehemiah 1:1-4; 2:1-8).

    This is much like what we are to do. When one does not understand what God’s Word is teaching, or what one is to do when faced with a situation where answers are needed, stop. Pray for God’s wisdom. God will answer, if only one will ask.

    When a Christian has the Word of God in one’s heart, and begins to understand it, what happens? “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). One is then able to share with others what they have learned from God’s Word and are able to live a more Christ-like life.

    Have you learned to stop and ask God for answers?