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.
“For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”
1 Corinthians 13:12
Some of the great questions of all time deal with what happens after one dies. The Bible, of course, has many clues for us if we will just take the time to read them. The Old Testament saints understood there is a life after death. They often referred to being gathered unto their people and fathers in death (see (Genesis 25:8; 35:29; 49:33; and many more). Consider one event that may help us. It is recorded in three of the four Gospels: The Transfiguration.
Jesus took Peter, James, and John up into a mountain to pray. “And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering” (Luke 9:29). As Jesus prayed, he was “transfigured” before them (see Matthew 17:2). “30. And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: 31. Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem” (Luke 9:30-31). Moses and Elias (Elijah) were there talking with Jesus about His decease. This word decease means “exit; exodus; (figuratively) death.” Moses and Elijah were speaking to Jesus of the death He was about to accomplish – which is why Jesus came to earth as a man (see Romans 5:8-10; Hebrews 2:14-15; 1 Peter 3:18). Peter, James, and John had fallen asleep. However, when they awoke, they saw Jesus in His glory along with Moses and Elijah.(see Luke 9:32-33).
Consider the many things that this brief meeting tells us. First, we can understand that there is life after death – for Moses and Elijah had died hundreds of years earlier! More than that, the disciples recognized who they were. Moses and Elijah were known by their personalities (for there was no way they knew what they looked like. There were no pictures of them!). Moses and Elijah are both well known in their character and deeds in the Old Testament. Also note: they were two men. They were still human beings. They had not turned into angels with wings. Remember that Jesus, after His resurrection, was in human form. “Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have” (Luke 24:39). Moses and Elijah had bodies much like we will have one day. 1 Corinthians chapter 15 tells us much about this. Especially see the following: “It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body” (1 Corinthians 15:44).
Moses and Elijah were standing there having a conversation with Jesus. This tells us that they were not in any kind of a “soul-sleep”. They were quite conscious in their conversation! They were having a time of fellowship with Jesus, speaking of his pending death that they knew was about to take place. What Moses and Elijah had spoken of while they lived on this earth was only a foretelling of what Jesus was about to complete. “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved” (John 3:17). Those who put their trust in Jesus will have eternal life. It is the choice of each individual person. “18. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:18-19). Jesus came to save anyone who would believe. However, those who do not believe upon Jesus will have God’s eternal wrath upon them – forever (see John 3:36). This is the second death (see Revelation 21:8).
We can recognize that Jesus had told His disciples about His pending death shortly before He took them up that mountain. “Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day” (Luke 9:22). However, it seems as if they did not comprehend what it was that Jesus was telling them. It is good to know, that Jesus was able to have a conversation with Moses and Elijah about His pending death. They knew and understood what was about to take place. That is another encouraging insight into the after-life – we will know and understand things that we do not here in this life. “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known” (1 Corinthians 13:12).
Have you rejected Jesus in this life, only waiting for the eternal wrath of God, the second death?
Or
Have you trusted in Jesus in this life, understanding that one day you will know Him even as you are known – for eternity?
“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?
“And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles.”
Luke 6:13
John the Baptist taught repentance and introduced people to Jesus the Lamb of God. From John’s teachings, many learned they were to follow Jesus. Andrew, Peter (Simon), Philip, Nathanael, James, John, and Matthew were some of the first that Jesus called to follow Him, listening to His teachings. This was an important first step in understanding just who Jesus is.
There were many others who followed Jesus because they wanted to hear His teachings – so many that they crowded Him. Jesus saw the empty ships (for the fishermen had just come in after fishing all night), and asked Simon to thrust the ship out a little from the shore. Jesus taught the people from the ship (see Luke 5:1-3). Jesus finished teaching from the ship. “4. Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon,Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.5. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. 6. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. 7. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink” (Luke 5:4-7). After finishing teaching, Jesus told Simon (Peter) to go out to the deep water and throw out their nets again to fish. Remember that Andrew was Peter’s brother, and he was most likely the other one on this ship. Notice that Simon (Peter) initially objected – but then he obeyed Jesus. Draught means “a catch of fish.” They caught so many fish that their nets broke, and then both ships began to sink because of the number of fish caught. It was at this point that Peter began to recognize who he was before Jesus (see Luke 5:8-9). However, Peter was not the only one affected by this. “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). (Read how Matthew phrased it: “19. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” Matthew 4:19). 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. They went from wanting to hear Jesus’ teachings and following Him some of the time, to becoming true disciples of Jesus’ who left all (their boats and nets) to follow Jesus. Disciple means “a pupil or learner; more in that it is one who adheres to and accepts the instruction given to him and makes it his rule of conduct.” Jesus called many to follow Him. Each one had to choose to follow or not.
It is after this time that Jesus calls out twelve men out of his many disciples, to become His Apostles. “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.” Read the names of the 12 Apostles: “14. Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, 15. Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes, 16. And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor” (Luke 6:14-16).
Notice something interesting:
There was a general call after they recognized who Jesus was where each man had to make a decision to follow Jesus.
Next, each one of them had to choose to forsake their old life and commit to a daily walk with Jesus.
Finally, we recognize that Jesus called these men to be His ambassadors to the world.
Recognize that these are the same callings given to each individual when he or she hears the Gospel message:
First, one must make a decision to follow Jesus be giving their heart and life to Him (see Romans 10:9: “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.”
Next, one must forsake their old life and commit to a daily walk with Jesus (see 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
Finally, remember that we are called to be Jesus’ ambassadors in this world: (see 2 Corinthians 5:20: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” Christians are to tell the world about Jesus so that they, too, can become His disciple (see Matthew 28:19-20).
Have you taken these three steps to fully follow Jesus daily in your life?
“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 2:14
There are a whole host of people in this world who claim to be Christians. However, there are even fewer who actually attain to live a Christ-like life. If each Christian would remember that Christ gave His life to redeem us, it should make a difference. But more than that, we are to become the “peculiar people, zealous of good works” that He has called us to be. “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).
The following hymn is a beautiful rendering of one’s heart. He obviously understood what is is like to not only desire to live a Christ-like life, but to acknowledge what it takes to do it. A full commitment from the heart.
Living for Jesus a Life That is True
Author: Thomas O. Chisholm (1917)
Tune: C. Harold Lowden
1. Living for Jesus, a life that is true, Striving to please Him in all that I do; Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free, This is the pathway of blessing for me.
Refrain: O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee, For Thou, in Thy atonement, didst give Thyself for me; I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne; My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.
2. Living for Jesus Who died in my place, Bearing on Calv’ry my sin and disgrace; Such love constrains me to answer His call, Follow His leading and give Him my all.
3. Living for Jesus, wherever I am, Doing each duty in His holy Name; Willing to suffer affliction and loss, Deeming each trial a part of my cross.
4. Living for Jesus through earth’s little while, My dearest treasure, the light of His smile; Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem, Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.
The writer of this hymn understood that Jesus gave His life for him, thus making Christ his master. He recognized the importance of living a life pleasing to Jesus in all he did, willingly, wherever he was and in whatever he did, no matter what the cost. The author of this song was in good company. We can read of men in the Bible who declared themselves servants of Jesus Christ.
“Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ …” (Romans 1:1a).
“James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ …” (James 1:1a).
“Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ …” (2 Peter 1:1a).
“Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ …” (Jude 1:1a).
Many others’ lives recorded in the Bible revealed that they were servants of Jesus, living lives that pleased Him in what they did. They were recorded as examples for us to follow. Some of the most amazing lives were recorded in Hebrews chapter 11. All of those looked forward to Jesus’ coming because of God’s promise. That kind of faith is difficult to understand, yet those listed lived lives pleasing to God understanding that He would send Jesus. Today, we know Jesus came, revealing God’s grace. “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men” (Titus 2:11). He then told us how to live for Him. “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” (Titus 2:12-13). Knowing how to live in this present world, we must remember why. “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 2:14). Jesus gave Himself for us so that we could be a “peculiar people, zealous of good works.” We are to live lives revealing Jesus in this world.
Have you decided to not only claim to be a Christian, but become a servant of Jesus Christ, living a life that is true for Him?
“2. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3. Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.”
James 1:2-3
James did not become a Christian until after Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. He finally understood that one must trust in Jesus by faith. “8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9. Not of works, lest any man should boast. 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).
Once James became a Christian, he taught practical ways to live a Christian life. He began by teaching how to understand the importance of temptations (trials). “2. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3. Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience” (James 1:2-3).
Temptations means “trials; a state of trial in which God brings His people through adversity and affliction in order to encourage and prove their faith and confidence in Him.”
Trying means “approved; tried; the means of proving; a criterion or test by which anything is proved or tried; as in faith by afflictions.”
Worketh means “to work out; bring about; accomplish; to carry out a task until it is finished; to effect; to produce.”
Not many people consider trying times as being joyful. Yet, James wrote to encourage Christians to understand that now that they had faith in Christ, it must be tried: put to the test. Once that faith is proved by being put to the test, that Christian will gain, or have, patience. Patience means “endurance; perseverance or constancy under suffering in faith and duty.” This patience enables one to persevere or remain constant. Think of this as learning to stand fast – being steadfast through trials. Remember many times in God’s Word where we learn that we are to “stand fast” (see a few of the following):
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13);
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage” (Galatians 5:1);
“Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27);
“Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved” (Philippians 4:1);
“For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 3:8);
“Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle” (2 Thessalonians 2:15); etc.)?
Christians are encouraged to understand that with faith in Christ comes trying times – but Christians are to persevere, consistently, with patience by standing fast. See what learning how to do this gives to Believers. “But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:4). In order to be an effective witness in this world, Christians must stand fast in their Christian faith by living it consistently.
James helped them understand what to do when Christians were faced with those trying times: “5. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed” (James 1:5-6). Wisdom means “in respect to divine things: deep knowledge; natural and moral insight; represented as a divine gift, and including the idea of practical application; as conjoined with purity of heart and life.” If a Christian does not know how to live right, or what to do in a specific situation, all one must do is to ask God – for He will show Christians how to live and what to do. However, one must remember that after asking God for wisdom in a situation, and then He tells that one what to do (according to God’s Word), it should be done: “nothing wavering.” Wavering means “to separate oneself from; to contend with; to be in strife with oneself; to doubt; hesitate; waver.” A Christian’s life should not be lived as a ship on a stormy sea – tossed about from highs and lows. Do not change your mind, or talk yourself out of doing what is right. Instead, a Christian is to stand fast, “nothing wavering,” and faithful. When one continually shifts from high to low, understand the following warning of a life lived like that. “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways” (James 1:8). Double minded means “doubtful; a person who suffers from divided loyalties – such as one who wishes to maintain a religious confession, desiring the presence of God in his life, but on the other hand, he loves the ways of the world and prefers to live according to its mores and ethics.” When a Christian constantly wavers, or is “double minded,” never fully committing to the Christian life, they will be unstable in everything. That kind of life is not an effectual witness for Christ.
Do you live a life where you are “double minded”, unstable in all your ways?
Or
Have you learned to stand fast upon God’s Word, living a consistent and faithful Christian life?
“So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.”
1 Thessalonians 1:7
Paul remembered the missionary journey that led to the establishment of the church at Thessalonica. “For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain” (1 Thessalonians 2:1). He also recalled the short amount of time they had there – for it was not enough to teach them all they needed to know. The book of First Thessalonians was written to the church at Thessalonica, which Paul established on his second missionary journey (see Acts 17). Remember that when there was an uprising incited by Jews who rejected the teaching of Jesus, Paul and Silas were sent away by night – keeping them safe. They were only there for three Sabbaths, but when the people at Thessalonica heard the Gospel message preached by Paul and Silas, enough of them believed that a church was established.
Read one of the most important things the people of Thessalonica did after they became Believers (Christians). “And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost” (1 Thessalonians 1:6). Followers means “an imitator.” They had heard Paul’s preaching, saw his response in a time of tribulation, and had imitated him in his words and deeds. Because of these things, they became followers of the Lord, suffering affliction, but with joy.
It is important to understand that putting one’s trust in Jesus is good (becoming a Christian), but it is just as important to put the principles of God’s Word into action in one’s life. It is then that God is able to work, and the world will see what God has done in the heart. Some call this putting one’s faith into action. Remember what faith means. Faith means “faith in Christ as able to work miracles, healing the sick; the means of appropriating what God in Christ has for man resulting in the transformation of man’s character and way of life – also called Christian faith.” Read what Paul recognized in these Believers. “Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father” (1 Thessalonians 1:3). Not only had a church been established, but also the Christians at Thessalonica were living examples into the areas around. They had appropriated their faith in Christ into their lives, transforming their character and way of life. This revealed their Christian faith. “So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia” (1 Thessalonians 1:7). Because they were living examples, their testimony of the power of God unto salvation in their lives was so great that it spread – for others in the areas around heard of the change that had taken place in their lives: how they “turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God” (1 Thessalonians 1:9).
Because of this, one can understand how the Church at Thessalonica became such great living examples. Compare I Thessalonians 1:3, 5-7 with what is recorded in James 2:17-18: “17. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.” James was teaching Christians that faith and works go hand in hand. This is to reveal Jesus to the lost world. Because faith is an issue of the heart (for one believes in the heart, then confesses with the mouth, see Romans 10:9-10), physical works are a necessity to show the world what has taken place in the heart. “19. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (James 2:19-20). James wrote, “that faith without works is dead”. This is an indication of one who has only confessed with the mouth that they believe, but never truly believed in the heart – much like the devils. Understand that unless it is a “saving faith,” it is counterfeit. This kind of faith lulls people into a false security of eternal life.
James did not just teach that with faith comes works, he cited examples from the Old Testament that all would remember. See the example of Abraham. “21. Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? 22. Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? 23. And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. 24. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:21-24). By Abraham’s act of offering his son, Isaac, it revealed the faith he had had in his heart for all of those years. Abraham’s faith was “justified by works”, revealing his heart to all of the world.
The people in the church of Thessalonica had followed Paul and Silas’ teachings of Christ, appropriated their faith, and many around had recognized their Christ-like lives. This made them viable witnesses for Jesus.
Have you appropriated your faith in Christ, becoming a living witness, where others can recognize Jesus in you?
“What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?”
James 2:14
As a Christian, the goal for this life is to be as Christ-like as one could possibly be. However, not many Christians understand what this means exactly, or even how to accomplish so great a task. Yet the answers are found in the Bible that most people own. James wanted to make a point. All Christians are saved by faith, but our actions (or works) reveal that faith to others. “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?” (James 2:14). We have already learned that salvation is by faith. We also understand that no one can do anything to earn salvation – for it came by the sacrifice of Jesus. “8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9. Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Then what is James trying to teach Christians? “17. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works” (James 2:17-18). Even something one would think to be minor is important to consider.
James was teaching Christians that faith and works go hand in hand. Because faith is an issue of the heart (for one believes in the heart, then confesses with the mouth, see Romans 10:9-10), physical works are a necessity to show the world what has taken place in the heart. “19. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (James 2:19-20). James wrote, “that faith without works is dead.” This is an indication of one who has only confessed with the mouth that they believed, but never truly believed in the heart – much like the devils. There is no evidence of this faith in that life. Understand that unless it is a “saving faith”, it is counterfeit. This kind of faith lulls people into a false security of eternal life.
How does one reveal faith in their life? “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). That faith is lived out in a Christian’s life. Remember that when one trusts in Jesus, there is a change in that life. To trust Christ means that you yield your life to Him, and you then follow Him and His Word (the teachings of the Bible). A Christian becomes Christ-like. “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10). When a Christian lives for Jesus by the principles of that faith, we will please Him. More than that, we will increase in our knowledge of God.
James did not just teach that with faith comes works, he cited examples from the Old Testament that all would remember. See the example of Abraham. “21. Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? 22. Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? 23. And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. 24. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:21-24). Recognize that James 2:23 was quoted from Genesis 15:6: “And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” This was recorded twenty years before God called Abraham to offer Isaac. Yet by Abraham’s act of offering his son, Isaac, it revealed the faith he had had in his heart for all of those years. Abraham’s faith was “justified by works,” revealing his heart to all of the world.
Read another example: Rahab. “Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?” (James 2:25). Remember that Rahab was the woman who lived within the walls of Jericho when the children of Israel sent the two spies into the city. Because she believed in God, she hid the two men, and then helped them escape, saving their lives. Because of her act of faith, she and her family were spared when the entire city of Jericho was destroyed. Her faith in God was revealed by her actions of saving the men of God. All could see her faith lived out in her life.
Read James’ summary: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (James 2:26). A Christian must live a Christ-like life to reveal that one’s faith in Christ.
“But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” James 1:4
Believers are those who chose to trust in Jesus by faith. In the book of James, we learn what must be done next. “2. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3. Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience” (James 1:2-3). Temptations in this verse are not quite what we may think they are.
Temptations means “trials; a state of trial in which God brings His people through adversity and affliction in order to encourage and prove their faith and confidence in Him.”
Trying means “approved; tried; the means of proving; a criterion or test by which anything is proved or tried; as in faith by afflictions.”
Worketh means “to work out; bring about; accomplish; to carry out a task until it is finished; to effect; to produce.”
It is hard to think of trying times as being considered joyful. Nevertheless, James wrote to encourage Christians to understand that now that they had faith in Jesus, that faith must be tried: put to the test. Once that faith is put to the test having been proved, that Christian will gain, or have, patience. Patience means “endurance; perseverance or constancy under suffering in faith and duty.” This patience refers to the quality that does not surrender to circumstances or succumb to trials. How many times have we learned that we are to “stand fast”? “Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle” (2 Thessalonians 2:15). (See also: 1 Corinthians 16:13; Galatians 5:1; Philippians 1:27; Philippians 4:1; 1Thessalonians 3:8; etc.) Patience is to be associated with hope (“Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father” 1 Thessalonians 1:3). Christians are encouraged to understand that with faith comes trying times – but Christians are to persevere, consistently, with patience by standing fast. See what patience gives Believers. “But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:4). Consider these times of trying as building character so that God can use that Christian for Him!
One cannot help but think of Moses. He was forty years old when he went out to try to help his people in Egypt who had become slaves. He ended up killing an Egyptian who was smiting a Hebrew (see Exodus 3:11-15). After Moses slew that Egyptian, he buried him in the sand. When Pharaoh heard, he wanted to kill Moses. So, Moses fled to Midian. It was forty years later when God called Moses out of the burning bush (that did not burn) to go back to Egypt to deliver God’s people the right way (see Exodus chapter 3). Moses was eighty years old when he went to face Pharaoh to deliver God’s people from slavery. Yet God was able to use Moses.
James helped Christians understand what to do when they were faced with those trying times. “5. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed” (James 1:5-6). Wisdom means “in respect to divine things: deep knowledge; natural and moral insight; represented as a divine gift, and including the idea of practical application.” If a Christian does not know how to live right, or what to do in a specific situation, all one must do is to ask God – for He will show Christians how to live and what to do through His Word, the Bible. However, one must remember that after asking God for wisdom in a situation, and then He tells that one what to do (according to God’s Word), it should be done: “nothing wavering.” Wavering means “to separate oneself from; to contend with; to be in strife with oneself; to doubt; hesitate; waver.” Do not change your mind, or talk yourself out of doing what is right. Even when something does not seem easy to do, a Christian’s life should not be lived as a ship on a stormy sea – tossed about from highs to lows. Instead, as we have learned, a Christian is to stand fast, “nothing wavering,” faithful. When one continually shifts from high to low, understand the following: that one cannot expect God to answer their prayer. “For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord” (James 1:7). Read the following warning of a life lived like that. “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways” (James 1:8). Double minded means “doubtful; a person who suffers from divided loyalties – such as one who wishes to maintain a religious confession, desiring the presence of God in his life, but on the other hand, he loves the ways of the world and prefers to live according to its mores and ethics.” When a Christian constantly wavers, or is “double minded,” never fully committing to the Christian life, they will be unstable in everything. We are not to love the ways of the world. We are to follow Christ and His Word.
Have you chosen to endure trials, gaining patience, enabling you to live a life that does not waver so God can use you?
“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?
