But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
—2 Peter 3:18
Key Verse Thought: Read the Key Verse. Do you realize what it means to grow (examples may be: to become stronger, taller, bigger, smarter, better at something, etc.)? It is important to recognize that one grows in more ways that just physically. In this lesson, we will learn the importance of growing in our Christian life – spiritually. It is important for Christians to grow in their Christian life – just as in the physical life.
Emphasis: We are to understand the importance of continually growing in the Christian life, watching and waiting for Jesus to return. Christians are to remember that when one grows in the Christian life, the relationship with Jesus grows as well. But especially: if Christians are not growing, they are digressing in that Christian life, becoming ineffective Christians.
Lesson Summary: The book of 2 Peter is the fourth book in the fifth division of the New Testament: Nine Letters to the Jewish Church. The Apostle Peter wrote it to Christians, encouraging them to grow in their Christian life. It is relevant to Christians today, just as it was to the Jewish Christians during the New Testament period.
Peter began by reminding them of their like faith in Jesus. He then taught them the importance of growing in that Christian faith. We will learn that as we grow in the knowledge of Jesus, our relationship with Him grows as well. There is also a warning for one who lacks the qualities of a growing, Christian life: he is compared to one who is blind and cannot see afar off.
As always, there is a warning of false teachers. Peter then cites examples of angels, and even some from the Old Testament, of those whom God “spared not.” Peter included a warning of those who had a “knowledge of the Lord”, who after they knew, turned from it, whose “latter end is worse with them than the beginning.”
Before Peter closed, he reminded the Christians not to forget that the Day of the Lord would come as a thief in the night for those who were not watching for His return. However, before that day came, Christians had much to do: live a holy and godly life, look for Jesus’ return, hasting the return of Jesus by winning others to the Lord (remembering that Jesus is longsuffering, not willing that any perish), and so much more. Most importantly, Christians are to “grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
If you are teaching this to younger children, the following is a craft idea to help them remember this lesson:
We colored and cut out a flower and flower pot. We then cut a slit in the construction paper where we glued the pot. We entered the flower stem into that slit, enabling us to cause the flower to “grow”. We included the verse 2 Peter 3:18.
Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
—1 Peter 2:5
Key Verse Thought: Read today’s Key Verse. As you read this verse, understand it better with the following definitions:
Lively stones means “to live as Christians”
Spiritual house means “spoken of things in a higher and spiritual sense, not literal, as in: Christians as the spiritual house or temple of God”
Holy priesthood means “referring to all Christians who are said to offer spiritual sacrifices”
Spiritual sacrifices means “spoken of things in a higher and spiritual sense, not literal, as in Christians in their service, obedience, praise offered to God; an offering or oblation (see Romans 12:1 and Hebrews 13:15-16)”
In this lesson, we will learn how to become “lively stones”.
Emphasis: In this lesson, we are to remember the hope we have in Jesus that allows us to become “lively stones”, living a Christ-like life: no longer living in the flesh, but according to the will of God. We are to know Christians must learn to think and act discreetly, using sound judgment and become self-disciplined – in order to resist the devil, for he wants to destroy Christians.
Lesson Summary: Peter was one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. He became a great leader in establishing the church after Jesus’ ascension. He wrote this letter to the Jewish Christians who scattered during persecutions.
Peter began by reminding them of what Jesus had done by his life, death, and resurrection, which gave all Christians a “lively hope”: the assurance of salvation and eternal life in heaven. Because of that “lively hope”, Peter taught Christians not only how to be holy, but to become “lively stones”: just how to live as Christians. He then called upon Christians, as dearly beloved, teaching them how to live: as citizens, employees, in sufferings, with spouses, and in fellowship with other believers, etc. A Christian’s life should be lived so that no one doubts that that one is really a Christian – and in that life, each Christian is a witness for Jesus, leading others into a life with Christ. Peter gave Jesus as our ultimate example, and then gave Noah’s faith as an example from the Old Testament.
Finally, Peter taught to live soberly: to think and act soberly, discreetly, and to use sound judgment and moderation; to be self-disciplined. By standing fast in our faith, living soberly, Christians are enabled to resist the devil, our adversary. And God promised to help.
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
—James 1:22
Key Verse Thought: Read today’s Key Verse. What is the difference between hearing about something and actually doing it? Which is more real? How important is it for children to actually do what their parent has told them to do compared to just hearing what was said and not fulfilling the task (i.e.: taking out the trash, making their bed, cleaning their room, coming home at the appointed time, etc.). Will there be reward, or trouble? Depends on whether they did what was commanded of them, or if they just “heard” what was said. In this lesson, we will look at the difference. We will learn it is most important to do what God’s Word teaches, and not just hear what God’s Word teaches.
Emphasis: In this lesson, we are to understand the importance of not only hearing what God’s Word teaches, but doing what God’s Word teaches. It is important for the world to see a person is truly a Christian by the way that one lives their life – as a life pleasing to God, obeying the Bible. Remember that Abraham was considered righteous and called the friend of God when he did what God asked of Him.
Lesson Summary: After learning in Hebrews again that salvation is by faith, we will recognize in this lesson that that faith is coupled with works.
James, the half brother of Jesus, wrote the book of James to the Jews scattered abroad, but it is also relevant to Christians today. Many think this may be the earliest written New Testament book. James did not become a Christian until after Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. He witnessed Jesus’ ascension and returned to wait in the upper room (see Acts 1:14). We will begin this lesson by remembering who James was.
Throughout the book of James, we will find many wise things applicable to the Christian life – much like the book of Proverbs in the Old Testament. James taught practical ways to live a Christian life. He began by teaching one to understand the difference between trials and temptations. One must also understand that faith alone is dead; however, faith is justified by works. Two Old Testament examples are given to reveal this. James encourages Christians to choose to be wise, learning how to live right, compared to living wrong. He reminds Christians that they cannot live like the world, for friendship with the world is enmity with God. Instead, a Christian is to draw nigh unto God, enabling that Christian to resist the devil. We will read a warning that when a Christian knows to do what is right but does not do it, it is sin. A Christian will show his faith by the Christ-like life he leads. Finally, we will learn about effectual prayer that avails much.
Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
—Revelation 2:10
Key Verse Thought: Read today’s Key Verse. As you read this verse, begin to understand the importance of standing fast in the Christian faith – even if persecution comes. In this lesson, we will learn of one who was killed for his faith and one who was imprisoned for his, yet both men remained faithful.
Emphasis: As you look at this lesson, recognize the significance of spreading the Gospel message, and the importance of ministering to new Christians as they grow in the Lord. Christians are to understand that being a faithful witness may leave us open for persecution – but we are to remember to be faithful, just like James and Peter.
Lesson Summary: We have learned that church was being persecuted, which was causing the Gospel message to be scattered into the areas around (including Samaria). Nevertheless, as we learned in our last lesson, even while there was persecution, Peter continued to do what God asked him to do. He learned that anyone could be saved – Jew or Gentile. He witnessed the Roman centurion, Cornelius, his household, and many of his friends become Believers. Peter then reported back to the Believers in Jerusalem that God could save anyone.
In this lesson, we find that the church continued to grow – in spite of persecution. So much so, that Barnabas was called from Jerusalem and was sent out to minister to the numerous Believers. When he saw the many blessings of God, he encouraged the people to adhere to the teachings of Jesus, growing closer to Him, and to continue telling others about Jesus. Barnabas then went to Tarsus, found Saul, and brought him back to help in the ministry, “… And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:26). Then they began to minister to those in need.
After this, the persecution intensified. Herod took James, the brother of John, and killed him for his faith. Then because it pleased the religious leaders, Herod put Peter in prison. We will learn in this lesson what happened when the church met together and prayed for Peter.
Herod was an enemy of God and the Christians. In this lesson, we will see an instance when God allowed His people to see their enemy destroyed.
If you are teaching this lesson to children, the following is a craft idea to help them remember this lesson.
We made a jail from foam and pipe cleaners. We added stickers of a soldier gurading the jail, and yarn attached to allow Peter to escape from the jail.
“Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:”
1 Corinthians 1:2
We most often call people who have trusted in Jesus for salvation “Christians”. This implies that the one who has given that heart and life to Jesus has become Christ-like. Did you realize that in the New Testament, the name “Christian(s)” is only used three times? (“… And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” Acts 11:26b.) Another name given for those who have chosen to follow Christ is “disciple”. They are called “disciple” (or disciples) thirty times. Two times they are called “Believers”. However, the most prevalent name is “saints”. We should remember when the Lord sent Ananias to speak to Saul (the persecutor of the new followers of Christ). “Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem” (Act 9:13). Those in Jerusalem who had trusted in Jesus were called “saints”. Many of the letters in the New Testament are addressed to the “saints.” (See Romans, 1 Corinthians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians.) Saints means “holy, set apart, sanctified, consecrated; its fundamental ideas are separation, consecration, devotion to God; separated morally.” Even more interesting, the name “saint” is interchangeable with the word “holy” in several verses. In these verses, the meaning for saint and holy are the same. It is this definition of the word “saint” or “holy” that each Christian should attain.
Why is it important to understand that those we call Christians are also known as “saints”? There are specific instructions to those called “saints” or “holy”. Because of this, it is important to know what these instructions are so that we can follow them.
Paul wrote a letter to the Christians in Rome. “To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:7). Take notice that the declared that they were “called to be saints”. He does this again in 1 Corinthians. “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours” (1 Corinthians 1:2). Notice again that Paul declares that “all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ” are “called to be saints”. Called means “called, invited, welcomed, appointed.; the called ones are those who have received the divine call having conformed to God’s saving purposes.” What is one who has been called to be a saint (holy) to do? “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 12:1-2). Note Paul wrote, “holy, acceptable unto God”. Remember, this means “holy, set apart … its fundamental ideas are separation, consecration, devotion to God; separated morally.” This kind of life is acceptable unto God. How is one to do this?
Peter gave us instructions. “14. As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 15. But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16. Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16). Remember, this “holy” is the same word as “saint”. Conversation means “behavior, lifestyle.” Once one has been called to be holy (a saint), that life is to change from the old lifestyle and be holy (live a life in devotion to God) in all behavior.
Paul wrote instructions to the saints (holy) in the letter to the Colossians. “12. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13. Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 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 3:12-17). This is a great listing for us as “Saints” today to use to transform our hearts and lives. This will produce a Christ-like lifestyle. We can then be Christians (Christ-like). It will allow us to be able to encourage other Christians as well. Paul gives a great listing to help us understand what kind of life Christ wants us to live and why (“see Ephesians 4:12-32).
Have you been called to be a saint?
Do you then choose to live a life that is changed, holy and acceptable unto God?
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:25
Jesus’ earthly parents took Him to the Temple when He was a child, and He continued to go as an adult. He not only went to the Temple, but also the synagogue. The synagogues had become common places of Bible teaching and worship. They were started during the Babylonian captivity. Because the people had no Temple in which to worship God, they began to meet in smaller groups for worship and biblical instruction. According to Jesus’ actions, He not only went to the synagogue regularly, but He taught there often as well.
Jesus’ parents took Him to the Temple the first time shortly after He was born (see Luke 2:27). They took Jesus to the Temple when he was twelve years old (see Luke 2:46). When Jesus was an adult, He still went to the Temple and the synagogue often. “And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read” (Luke 4:16). It was His custom. There are dozens of verses in the Gospels declaring Jesus went to the synagogue and the Temple.
Do you remember what often happened when Jesus went to the synagogues? Or even the Temple? When he went to the synagogue in his hometown of Nazareth where He read a portion out of Isaiah, see what the people did. “28. And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, 29. And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong” (Luke 4:28-29). Not only were they angry with Jesus, they wanted to throw Him off of a cliff to kill Him. “But he passing through the midst of them went his way” (Luke 4:30). Nevertheless, Jesus did not quit going to the synagogue or the Temple. When He went, He often taught the people. When Jesus taught, He made known the need for repentance of sin. The people would then be given the choice – to accept Him or reject Him.
See a few of the following examples:
A ruler of the synagogue believed in Jesus to heal his daughter (see Mark 5:22-24, 35-43).
The people did not believe in Jesus (see Mark 6:2-6).
The people of Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth rejected Him, wanting to kill Him (see Luke 4:16-30).
Jesus taught in the Temple, and many did believe on Him (see John 7:28-31).
Because Jesus went to the Temple and synagogues often, many of the religious leaders heard and believed in Jesus. “Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue” (John 12:42).
Today, we do not go to the Temple, for it has been replaced for Christians with the church building. The church building is the place that Christians go to meet in smaller groups for worship and biblical instruction. (Did you notice that was the same function as the synagogue?) Because Jesus found it important to go to the synagogue often, many recognized who Jesus was during the gathering of people in those locations. It was there that God’s Word was taught. Today, Christians are to attend church often. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25). Not only are we to attend church to learn more about the Bible, helping us to become better Christians, but for much the same reason that Jesus often visited the Temple and the synagogues – to encourage and teach others about Jesus.
Admittedly, today’s churches are sometimes difficult places to attend regularly. There are obviously problems in some churches. It may even be difficult to find a true Bible believing and teaching church. However, each Christian is encouraged to go more and more often, for time is short. The synagogues Jesus attended were fraught with religiosity. The leaders taught a religious system and tradition more than God’s Word. Jesus was often challenged, met with confrontation, rejected, and at times even attended at the peril of His life. Yet He continued to frequent them regularly. However, while He was there, He taught the truth. Sometimes He said, “as it is written”, and often He referred to what they had heard and told them, “I say unto you” to correct what they had heard.
Today, we have the complete written Word of God, and it is important that each Christian knows what the Bible teaches. When a Christian goes to church, one can be pretty confident that there is no fear of death. However, there may be challenges, confrontations, or even rejection. But that is no reason to quit attending church (maybe find a new one!). Jesus attended while He lived here on earth. Christians should be just as faithful, praying God will provide a Bible teaching church to attend. Paul encouraged the men he left in charge at the church in Ephesus. Remember what he taught them: “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). The church was purchased with the blood of Christ. It is very important to Him.
Have you found a Bible teaching church in which to attend faithfully?
“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”
2 Peter 3:18
Jesus called twelve men to be His special disciples. We now call them Apostles. Each of these men were different from the others. These men had particular qualities and character traits that we can recognize about them. Why do you think that Jesus called such a diverse group to begin the spread of the Gospel message to the world?
Many children memorize the names of Jesus’ twelve disciples in a Sunday School Class. Do you remember their names, or even much about them? Read one listing of these men: “And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James” (Acts 1:13). In this listing, Judas Iscariot (which also was the traitor) is noticeably missing (see why in Matthew 27:3-5; and Acts 1:16-18). Almost everyone remembers about Judas Iscariot. Jesus knew Judas Iscariot would betray Him (see Matthew 26:21-25 and John 6:64).
Consider a few of the disciples:
Peter was called Cephas (which meas “a stone) by Jesus (see John 1:42). Peter mostly seemed to be bold, yet sometimes he appeared afraid (see Matthew 14:22-33). When Jesus asked His disciples who they said He was, Peter was the first to declare: “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Jesus blessed him for this (see Matthew 16:17). Peter is famous for proclaiming he would never deny Jesus. However, Jesus warned Peter that he would deny Him that very night. And he did.
James and John were brothers: “And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder” (Mark 3:17). Apparently, they were a bit fiery and defensive of Jesus when He was rejected by the Samaritans: “And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?” (Luke 9:54).
Andrew (Peter’s brother), was the first to follow Jesus, and he brought his brother, Peter, to meet Jesus (see John 1:40-42).
Philip, brought Bartholomew (Nathanael) to Jesus (see John 1:45-46).
Thomas will probably always be known as “doubting Thomas” (see John 20:24-29).
Bartholomew (Nathanael) was an honest man who was skeptical when he first heard of Jesus, but immediately recognized who Jesus is. “Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel” (John 1:49).
Matthew (also called Levi, the son of Alphaeus) left all and followed Jesus, however Jesus ate at his house first. “And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for there were many, and they followed him” (Mark 2:15).
James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James about whom not much is known.
Was there anything special about these men? They appeared to be average men. Peter, Andrew, James and John were fishermen. Jesus called them from catching fish to becoming “fishers of men.” Jesus taught them to go tell others how to know Jesus. However, the same thing can happen to people today. One may not see Jesus walking down the road, calling an individual to follow Him, but one can understand the call upon the heart when hearing the Bible preached and taught. It is then that each individual who hears that call upon the heart should respond in affirmation. Yes! I will follow Jesus!
After Jesus resurrected and appeared to His disciples, He took time to speak personally with Peter, who had denied Jesus three times just before His death. Jesus wanted Peter to understand that even though he had failed in one area at that point in His commitment to Him; Jesus still had mighty plans for Him – if Peter was willing to do what Jesus asked of Him (see John 21:14-19). Even when a Christians fails, falling short of what Jesus would expect, if that one will return as Peter did (remember he was the first disciple to run to the tomb, and the first to jump out of the boat swimming to shore to see Jesus), Jesus can still use a repentant Christian. Peter grew in his Christian life. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18). Peter encouraged Christians to continue to grow.
As one reads the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), one can understand the growth of these men as they walked with Jesus. When Jesus ascended back into heaven after His resurrection, He entrusted these men to go forth, preaching the Gospel Message. When you read Acts, their growth continued as they understood how to live as disciples of Jesus. They were not the same men that we were introduced to when Jesus called them. It is because of their faithful witness (and many more like them) that we can know the Gospel Message, too. Although we may not know much about these men, we understand enough in that they followed Jesus to the end.
Christians should learn much from these men. None of them were perfect. None of them were known – until they responded in affirmation to the call of Jesus upon their lives. As Jesus called them, one by one, they each chose to follow Jesus.
Have you met Jesus, and then chosen to grow in your Christian life?
“24. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.”
Matthew 16:24-25
Nehemiah helped rebuild the city walls of Jerusalem, reinforcing the city. Not only that, but many times the enemy’s plans were thwarted, and God’s people were able to complete the walls in fifty-two days.
Once the city was reinforced and protected, it was time to organize the people. Nehemiah appointed jobs to people and selected men to be rulers in the city. He taught them of the importance of appointing guards to protect the gates of the city, controlling what was allowed inside Jerusalem. The people gathered together and asked Ezra to read the book of the Law to them. After hearing God’s Words, the people recognized their sin, repented, and began to live according to God’s Word. This was followed with a time of prayer. After acknowledging their sin, they made a covenant with God to obey His commands.
Nehemiah returned to Shushan to serve the king again – just as he had promised. After a short time, he returned to Jerusalem. When he arrived, he saw much sin – beginning in the house of the Lord. Eliashib, the priest, was friends with Tobiah (their adversary) and had allowed him to move into the Temple. The Levites were working outside of the city instead of taking care of the house of the Lord. The people were working, buying, and selling on the Sabbath – breaking God’s commands. They had intermarried with the nations around, again; for the high priest’s own grandson had married the daughter of Sanballat, the enemy of God’s people. Nehemiah confronted the people and their sin. He warned the people of the great evil to transgress against God. The sin was corrected. Nehemiah prayed for God’s people. Take time to recognize just how often Nehemiah prayed. Knowing God’s Word and prayer are key in living right before God.
One of the truly sad parts of the book of Nehemiah is that without the constant reproof and the presence of Nehemiah, the people did not continually obey God. They quickly forgot God’s Word, reverting back into their comfortable lifestyles – living however they wanted. If Christians are not careful, we too, will enter into that same trap that the Israelites fell into once they returned to Jerusalem. Christians tend to see and become part of the world in which we live – contrary to Biblical teachings. “15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 John 2:15-17). We are warned, and then encouraged to do the will of God.
Christians are to remember what Jesus taught. “24. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:24-26). It is important for Christians to deny themselves and follow Jesus – daily!
Christians today have a great advantage that God’s people did not have in the Old Testament. Each person who gives their heart and life to Jesus has God’s Spirit given to them – to teach them right from wrong. The people in Jerusalem had Nehemiah. Nevertheless, when he left, they forgot. God’s Spirit, that Jesus called the Comforter, never leaves a Christian – so we should never forget. Remember what Jesus told His disciples. “15. If ye love me, keep my commandments. 16. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17.Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you” (John 14:15-17). That Comforter Jesus gave enables us to obey God’s commandments written in the Bible. We have no excuse!
What should motivate Christians to please Jesus in all 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” (Titus 2:11-12). It would be good to remember what Jesus prayed for his disciples on that last night in the garden. “14. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 16. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world” (John 17:14-16). Christians, today, have God’s Word and His Spirit. We must remember that we are not of this world, just as Jesus is not of this world.
Do you pray often, choosing to deny the things of the world and faithfully follow Jesus?
“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”
Hebrews 6:10
Jeremiah faithfully proclaimed God’s Words to the kings and the people, warning them of the coming destruction and captivity, if they did not repent and return to God. When the people failed to repent, God allowed the Babylonians to besiege Jerusalem. Jeremiah witnessed the captivity of Judah by Babylon and the destruction of Jerusalem, the city where God had chosen to place His name. Even through all of this, Jeremiah continually shared the Word of the Lord with the people. We should recognize that at times he suffered and was rejected. This helps us understand why Jeremiah is known as the “Weeping Prophet”. Often, his life was in danger. However, we never read that Jeremiah quit God.
Remember a few of the times Jeremiah was unjustly imprisoned, and God’s protection, allowing him to continue delivering God’s Words to the people and the kings.
Jeremiah was put in the stocks: (Jeremiah 20:1-2).
Jeremiah was shut up in the court of the prison in the king’s house: (Jeremiah 32:2-3).
Jeremiah was falsely accused, they smote him, and put him in prison: (Jeremiah 37:13-15).
He was in prison when Jerusalem was taken by Babylon (see Jeremiah 38:28).
Probably the most familiar time we remember is when Jeremiah was lowered into a dungeon (probably an old cistern) where he sunk in the mire. Read some of when Jeremiah was in the dungeon: “1. Then Shephatiah … heard the words that Jeremiah had spoken unto all the people, saying, 2. Thus saith the LORD, He that remaineth in this city shall die by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence: but he that goeth forth to the Chaldeans shall live; for he shall have his life for a prey, and shall live … 4. Therefore the princes said unto the king, We beseech thee, let this man be put to death … 5. Then Zedekiah the king said, Behold, he is in your hand … 6. Then took they Jeremiah, and cast him into the dungeon … that was in the court of the prison: and they let down Jeremiah with cords. And in the dungeon there was no water, but mire: so Jeremiah sunk in the mire” (Jeremiah 38:1-6). Jeremiah was put into a “dungeon” (probably an empty cistern) where there was no water.
“7. Now when Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, one of the eunuchs which was in the king’s house, heard that they had put Jeremiah in the dungeon… 8. Ebedmelech went forth out of the king’s house, and spake to the king, saying, 9. My lord the king, these men have done evil in all that they have done to Jeremiah the prophet, whom they have cast into the dungeon; and he is like to die for hunger in the place where he is: for there is no more bread in the city” (Jeremiah 38:7-9). This man, Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, had compassion for Jeremiah. He wanted to spare Jeremiah’s life.
“10. Then the king commanded Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Take from hence thirty men with thee, and take up Jeremiah the prophet out of the dungeon, before he die. 11. So Ebedmelech took the men with him… and took thence old cast clouts and old rotten rags, and let them down by cords into the dungeon to Jeremiah. 12. And Ebedmelech the Ethiopian said unto Jeremiah, Put now these old cast clouts and rotten rags under thine armholes under the cords. And Jeremiah did so. 13. So they drew up Jeremiah with cords, and took him up out of the dungeon: and Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison” (Jeremiah 38:10-13). Although Jeremiah was still in prison, his life was no longer under threat of death and starvation. Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison until Jerusalem was taken by Babylon (see Jeremiah 38:28).
What makes this event so interesting?
Babylon besieged Jerusalem for about eighteen months before they took they city. Many died before and during this taking of Jerusalem (to remember the tragic invasion, read Jeremiah 52 and Lamentations). So with the fear of death and destruction, God gave Jeremiah a special word of encouragement to give to Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, the man who had saved Jeremiah’s life. “15. Now the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, while he was shut up in the court of the prison, saying, 16. Go and speak to Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring my words upon this city for evil, and not for good; and they shall be accomplished in that day before thee. 17. But I will deliver thee in that day, saith the LORD: and thou shalt not be given into the hand of the men of whom thou art afraid. 18. For I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prey unto thee: because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the LORD” (Jeremiah 39:15-18). God understood that Ebedmelech the Ethiopian was afraid during the days that Babylon besieged the city. To help this man understand that Jeremiah was a true prophet of God, God promised that Ebedmelech the Ethiopian would be spared. This was because he took care of Jeremiah, God’s man, and Ebedmelech the Ethiopian had put his trust in God.
Read a couple of verses that should help us understand the importance of this act. Jesus said the following to his disciples when he sent them out to preach to the people: “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward” (Matthew 10:41). Ebedmelech the Ethiopian received his life in Jeremiah’s day for helping Jeremiah.
The writer of Hebrews encourages us with the following: “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister” (Hebrews 6:10). Even today, we are to minister to other Christian’s in Jesus’ name.
These verses help us understand that Ebedmelech the Ethiopian did a good thing by helping the prophet Jeremiah. And God let him know by sparing his life during that terrible time, “because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the LORD”.
Have you put your trust in the Lord and remembered to minister to other Christians in Jesus’ name?
“Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
Philippians 2:12
Jesus is the ultimate example on how Christians are to live in this world. Hence the name Christian; Christ-like. Paul spent much time recording many instructions and examples of what to do.
When you read Philippians 2:6-8, you are to understand Jesus is God. He stepped away from His throne in glory “… and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:7). Jesus took the form of a servant (while remaining God), and was made in the likeness of men (while remaining God). Jesus had to become a man in order to pay man’s penalty for sin: death. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). Now does that verse make a lot more sense?
While Jesus lived in the form of a servant, made in the likeness of man, He was obedient to His Father, God. “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:8). It was then that he paid the penalty for man’s sin, providing the opportunity of eternal life. Jesus died so that anyone who would trust in this act of “payment for my sin”, could gain salvation. This is the Gospel message. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth …” (Romans 1:16). Salvation here means “of spiritual and eternal deliverance.” How does one gain eternal deliverance? By trusting in Jesus as one’s Lord.
Once one believes that Jesus died upon the cross to pay for sin, then trusting in Jesus as one’s Lord, there is a growing process that is to begin. One of the first things a Christian is to learn is to walk in obedience to God’s Word. One who belongs to Christ must learn to joyfully surrender to His will. Jesus was willing to lay aside His glory for a time, becoming a man, in obedience to His Father. Christians are to lay aside the sinfulness of this world, in obedience to God, our Father, understanding one day we will be with Him in heaven. “12. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God” (Romans 6:12-13). One of a Christian’s greatest concerns should be to not live a disappointing life for Christ. God is good in that He will place other Christians in our lives to help and encourage us.
There are many lives recorded in the Bible that also help us understand how to live as a Christian. Paul was one of the great ones. He understood the importance of obedience, and recorded the following to help us understand. “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). Work out means “to work fully, that is, accomplish; by implication to finish… perform, work out.” It is important for Christians to accomplish, finish, what God has for us to do. It emphasizes that it is our responsibility. Salvation here means “of the present experience of God’s power to deliver.” This helps us understand that we are not doing it alone – for God’s power is helping us. We are to not come short of what God has for our lives here on the earth, today. “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). God working in me emphasizes that God enables us; for we cannot do it on our own. But He allows us to accomplish things for Him while we are on this earth – if we will only obey Him. All that we accomplish for the Lord here depends upon His working in us to accomplish His plan.
Read what the writer of Hebrews left to encourage us as he came to the close of the book. “20. Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 21. Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:20-21). A Christian can be “perfect in every good work” (complete, accomplishing everything God wants us to accomplish on this earth). Note that it is doing His will, and recognizing that Jesus is the one who accomplishes these things in our lives. We cannot do it alone.
There are no shortcuts to working out one’s salvation. It is a constant, day by day, working at growing in a more Christ-like life. It is much like working out a temporary survival in this wicked world. The greatest thing to understand is that Christians have been given the Holy Spirit within to teach us and lead us into the truths found in God’s Word. Our hope of surviving today is knowing that we have a permanent home with Jesus one day.
Have you learned to obey the Lord, enabling you to work out your own temporary survival (salvation) in this wicked world?
