Dave's Blog

Dave's Blog http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10116&blog_id=84144 Thoughts on Reading the NT in 2010. EN-US Copyright © 2012 Birchwood Baptist Church http://www.triplePixel.com Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/Content/10116/thumbnails/84144-rss-thumbnail.jpgDave's Bloghttp://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10116&blog_id=84144 David Delmotte Thoughts on Reading the NT in 2010. David Delmotteddelmotte@birchwoodbaptist.org no The king and the King http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=215314http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=215314 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 13:00:00 GMT 7/1/10 Matthew 1-2 The king and the King (Mt 2:8)8And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him.” Herod the Great was the king of Israel and Judea when the birth of Jesus Christ took place. Time had been marching on and Herod was occupied by various things but one thing that he apparently took great pleasure in was huge building projects. Many of the ruins of these project remain today in the land of Israel. Certainly, one of his prized projects was the building of the temple. The temple was to be the place where God manifested his presence, so you would assume that Herod and his officials would have been seek the Lord and looking for the Messiah, but actually Herod was interested using the building of God’s temple in order to make Herod’s name great. While all this activity was taking place under Herod’s reign, in the midst of it all God sent his son to be born of a virgin in the city of Bethlehem, just a few miles away from the Herod’s throne and the Temple building project. Some wise men or magi, not kings, came from the east because they had seen an unusual star and had made the connection that it was linked to the coming King and Messiah of the Jews. They come to Jerusalem and begin to inquire where this King is and no one in Jerusalem had an immediate answer. It took a meeting between the chief priests and scribes to recall the prophecy of Micah 5:2 that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem. The wise men then headed a few miles to the south following the star they had originally seen to the village of Bethlehem, to the very house where the child Jesus was. By the time the magi arrive Jesus is no longer an infant but a toddler. They worshipped him and gave him their gifts. Being warned in a dream not to return to Herod they departed another way to their homelands. Herod the Great being consumed with his empire and projects never gets to see Jesus the true King. What about you? Are you so preoccupied with living, doing, and accomplishing that you have neglected rightful worship of the Eternal King? Are you seeking the Lord daily or is life just the daily grind? Do you study the scriptures to known and recognized the plan, purposes, and promises of God? What gifts are you willing to give to Jesus? Jesus said that He is going to return (Mt 24:44) are you looking for His return or will you miss His second coming like Herod missed His first coming? Jesus as Herod did not have a second chance to see Jesus, when Jesus returns a second time there will be no second chances. Today is the day to come to Him in faith and worship Him (2 Cor 6:1-2). Prayer: Father you are to be praised and glorified in all the earth. There is no one like you. You promises are faithful and true. Your timing is perfect. You Son Jesus is the Savior of all mankind. Oh, how many there are that have not recognized him as the true King, Lord, and Savior. I ask you Father that you would open the eyes of those who are blinded by the god of this age, Satan, from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the exact image of you. I pray for the people who are consumed with living that they have neglected the rightful worship of Jesus. Father may your Spirit once again blow upon our nation’s political and religious leaders, leading us to confession and repentance in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. 7/1/10 Matthew 1-2 The king and the King (Mt 2:8) 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him.” Herod the Great was the king of Israel and Judea when the birth of Jesus Christ took place. Time had been marching on and Herod was occupied by various things but one thing that he apparently took great pleasure in was huge building projects. Many of the ruins of these project remain today in the land of Israel. Certainly, one of his prized projects was the building of the temple. The temple was to be the place where God manifested his presence, so you would assume that Herod and his officials would have been seek the Lord and looking for the Messiah, but actually Herod was interested using the building of God’s temple in order to make Herod’s name great. While all this activity was taking place under Herod’s reign, in the midst of it all God sent his son to be born of a virgin in the city of Bethlehem, just a few miles away from the Herod’s throne and the Temple building project. Some wise men or magi, not kings, came from the east because they had seen an unusual star and had made the connection that it was linked to the coming King and Messiah of the Jews. They come to Jerusalem and begin to inquire where this King is and no one in Jerusalem had an immediate answer. It took a meeting between the chief priests and scribes to recall the prophecy of Micah 5:2 that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem. The wise men then headed a few miles to the south following the star they had originally seen to the village of Bethlehem, to the very house where the child Jesus was. By the time the magi arrive Jesus is no longer an infant but a toddler. They worshipped him and gave him their gifts. Being warned in a dream not to return to Herod they departed another way to their homelands. Herod the Great being consumed with his empire and projects never gets to see Jesus the true King. What about you? Are you so preoccupied with living, doing, and accomplishing that you have neglected rightful worship of the Eternal King? Are you seeking the Lord daily or is life just the daily grind? Do you study the scriptures to known and recognized the plan, purposes, and promises of God? What gifts are you willing to give to Jesus? Jesus said that He is going to return (Mt 24:44) are you looking for His return or will you miss His second coming like Herod missed His first coming? Jesus as Herod did not have a second chance to see Jesus, when Jesus returns a second time there will be no second chances. Today is the day to come to Him in faith and worship Him (2 Cor 6:1-2). Prayer: Father you are to be praised and glorified in all the earth. There is no one like you. You promises are faithful and true. Your timing is perfect. You Son Jesus is the Savior of all mankind. Oh, how many there are that have not recognized him as the true King, Lord, and Savior. I ask you Father that you would open the eyes of those who are blinded by the god of this age, Satan, from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the exact image of you. I pray for the people who are consumed with living that they have neglected the rightful worship of Jesus. Father may your Spirit once again blow upon our nation’s political and religious leaders, leading us to confession and repentance in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Temporary Delay http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=213252http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=213252 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 11:00:00 GMT Because I am at the SBC with a very busy schedule I will not be able to post daily. I will continue to read and if I have some spare momments I may be able to write some. Yesterday, we heard five messages and today we will hear ten messages. It is a busy few days. I was not even sure if we would have internet connection, but fortunately we were blessed without having to pay for it. Because I am at the SBC with a very busy schedule I will not be able to post daily. I will continue to read and if I have some spare momments I may be able to write some. Yesterday, we heard five messages and today we will hear ten messages. It is a busy few days. I was not even sure if we would have internet connection, but fortunately we were blessed without having to pay for it. To Do Your Will http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=213032http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=213032 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 09:00:00 GMT 6/11/10 Hebrews 10 To Do Your Will (Heb 10:7)7“Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come (In the scroll of the book it is written of Me) To do Your will, O God.’ ” Many Christians are consumed with knowing the will of God for their lives. What they really are saying is that I wish God would clearly lay out exactly what he wants me to do concerning the big decisions that I need to make. Some decisions we feel comfortable making based on our own wisdom and judgment, but there are others that carry significant weight and we realize the choice and outcome of that decision will have significant consequences concerning our lives. This in itself is a testimony to the fact that our decisions have consequences. I am reminded of what I recently heard Henry Blackaby say “Your life is the sum of the choices you make.” By and large believers who are concerned with God’s will for their lives understand their decisions do not just have significant consequences but eternal ones and they do not want to make a mistake. When Christ came to the world He knew His assignment was to do God’s will. The Life of Christ is a continuous submission to the will of God, because the Father could be perfectly trusted. Even if His will appeared to be illogical and not producing the results Christ continued to trust the Father at every turn. How did he do it? Jesus made His relationship with the Father priority number one. He did this through prayer and knowing the scriptures. Countless times the gospel writers mention how Jesus went to prayer in the early morning, after a long day of ministry, and even through the night. Jesus also spent time learning and knowing the scriptures (Luke 2:52). Prayer and the scriptures go hand and hand in revealing the heart of God and the will of God. The will of God for your life and mine is absolute surrender, trust, dependence, and obedience to the Father as he reveals Himself, His plans and purposes one choice at a time and one day at a time. The question then comes to each of us each and every day; “Are you ready to do My will today?” The will of God in Hebrews 10 was that a sacrifice would be offered that was sufficient to cleanse sinful humanity from their unrighteousness which would allow a righteous God to have fellowship with them. That was accomplished through Jesus Christ sacrificial death and shed blood on the cross once and for all. The writer of Hebrews concludes chapter 10 with an exhortation to keep pressing on in the face of increasing persecution, because when you have done the will of God you will receive what was promised eternal rest. Prayer: Father thank you that I can call upon you through prayer because of the ultimate sacrifice of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus thank you that you gave of yourself to do the will of the Father at all points. Teach me daily surrender, trust, depend, and obey the Father just as you did. I praise you God of all creation who had a will to reconcile sinful humanity to a perfect, peaceful, and eternal relationship with You. To God be the glory and wisdom and power forever and ever. Amen. 6/11/10 Hebrews 10 To Do Your Will (Heb 10:7) 7 “Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come (In the scroll of the book it is written of Me) To do Your will, O God.’ ” Many Christians are consumed with knowing the will of God for their lives. What they really are saying is that I wish God would clearly lay out exactly what he wants me to do concerning the big decisions that I need to make. Some decisions we feel comfortable making based on our own wisdom and judgment, but there are others that carry significant weight and we realize the choice and outcome of that decision will have significant consequences concerning our lives. This in itself is a testimony to the fact that our decisions have consequences. I am reminded of what I recently heard Henry Blackaby say “Your life is the sum of the choices you make.” By and large believers who are concerned with God’s will for their lives understand their decisions do not just have significant consequences but eternal ones and they do not want to make a mistake. When Christ came to the world He knew His assignment was to do God’s will. The Life of Christ is a continuous submission to the will of God, because the Father could be perfectly trusted. Even if His will appeared to be illogical and not producing the results Christ continued to trust the Father at every turn. How did he do it? Jesus made His relationship with the Father priority number one. He did this through prayer and knowing the scriptures. Countless times the gospel writers mention how Jesus went to prayer in the early morning, after a long day of ministry, and even through the night. Jesus also spent time learning and knowing the scriptures (Luke 2:52). Prayer and the scriptures go hand and hand in revealing the heart of God and the will of God. The will of God for your life and mine is absolute surrender, trust, dependence, and obedience to the Father as he reveals Himself, His plans and purposes one choice at a time and one day at a time. The question then comes to each of us each and every day; “Are you ready to do My will today?” The will of God in Hebrews 10 was that a sacrifice would be offered that was sufficient to cleanse sinful humanity from their unrighteousness which would allow a righteous God to have fellowship with them. That was accomplished through Jesus Christ sacrificial death and shed blood on the cross once and for all. The writer of Hebrews concludes chapter 10 with an exhortation to keep pressing on in the face of increasing persecution, because when you have done the will of God you will receive what was promised eternal rest. Prayer: Father thank you that I can call upon you through prayer because of the ultimate sacrifice of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus thank you that you gave of yourself to do the will of the Father at all points. Teach me daily surrender, trust, depend, and obey the Father just as you did. I praise you God of all creation who had a will to reconcile sinful humanity to a perfect, peaceful, and eternal relationship with You. To God be the glory and wisdom and power forever and ever. Amen. Sufficient Sacrifice http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212848http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212848 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:00:00 GMT 6/10/10 Hebrews 9 Sufficient Sacrifice (Heb 9:26b)26b but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. The writer of the book of Hebrews is methodically showing his first readers, Jews who were considering reverting back to the laws of Judaism, that the first covenant has been made void. Some Jews or “Hebrews” as this book indicates were experiencing pressure and persecution to revert back to the Old Testament law and sacrifices after having learned of Christ work. The writer describes the first tabernacle and its contents indicating that these were just mere earthly copies of what the perfect tabernacle was like. On the Day of Atonement which occurred one a year, the high priest would enter the tabernacle and then enter the Holy of Holies first sprinkling the blood of the sacrifices on the altar of incense and the ark of the covenant first for himself and then for the people (Heb 9:7). But when Christ appeared as the high priest He did not just enter the mere earthly copy of God’s presence, but went right straight into heaven and brought a sacrifice far superior to blood of goats and calves, He brought His own blood. His shed blood which was without blemish was offered to God for the sin of the people. God accepted his sacrifice which has resulted in obtaining eternal redemption and for those who have been call upon Him for salvation. Jesus sacrifice has proved to be sufficient once and for all. There is no longer any need for additional sacrifices, because you cannot improve on perfection. Jesus blood of the new covenant was offered without blemish, it was perfect. His blood satisfied the requirement of God’s just and righteous punishment upon sin and now those who believe on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation look and await His second coming where He will come not to atone for sin, but to rightfully claim all those who are His according to the promise of eternal inheritance. Oh, come Lord Jesus. Prayer: Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Jesus Christ who has atoned for sin through the flowing of His blood. Father, I thank you that you made a way through Jesus Christ that I may enjoy your forgiveness and presence. You are the all wise God who has made possible the fellowship between yourself and sinful people through the superior, sufficient, and spot-less sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Thanks unto the Lord Jesus Christ for His sacrifice which has secured for eternity the redemption of all who trust Him for salvation. Worthy is the Lamb that has been slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing (Rev 5:12). Amen. 6/10/10 Hebrews 9 Sufficient Sacrifice (Heb 9:26b) 26b but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. The writer of the book of Hebrews is methodically showing his first readers, Jews who were considering reverting back to the laws of Judaism, that the first covenant has been made void. Some Jews or “Hebrews” as this book indicates were experiencing pressure and persecution to revert back to the Old Testament law and sacrifices after having learned of Christ work. The writer describes the first tabernacle and its contents indicating that these were just mere earthly copies of what the perfect tabernacle was like. On the Day of Atonement which occurred one a year, the high priest would enter the tabernacle and then enter the Holy of Holies first sprinkling the blood of the sacrifices on the altar of incense and the ark of the covenant first for himself and then for the people (Heb 9:7). But when Christ appeared as the high priest He did not just enter the mere earthly copy of God’s presence, but went right straight into heaven and brought a sacrifice far superior to blood of goats and calves, He brought His own blood. His shed blood which was without blemish was offered to God for the sin of the people. God accepted his sacrifice which has resulted in obtaining eternal redemption and for those who have been call upon Him for salvation. Jesus sacrifice has proved to be sufficient once and for all. There is no longer any need for additional sacrifices, because you cannot improve on perfection. Jesus blood of the new covenant was offered without blemish, it was perfect. His blood satisfied the requirement of God’s just and righteous punishment upon sin and now those who believe on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation look and await His second coming where He will come not to atone for sin, but to rightfully claim all those who are His according to the promise of eternal inheritance. Oh, come Lord Jesus. Prayer: Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Jesus Christ who has atoned for sin through the flowing of His blood. Father, I thank you that you made a way through Jesus Christ that I may enjoy your forgiveness and presence. You are the all wise God who has made possible the fellowship between yourself and sinful people through the superior, sufficient, and spot-less sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Thanks unto the Lord Jesus Christ for His sacrifice which has secured for eternity the redemption of all who trust Him for salvation. Worthy is the Lamb that has been slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing (Rev 5:12). Amen. Able To Save http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212833http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212833 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 11:00:00 GMT Able To Save (Heb 7:25)25Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. In Chapter 7 the author gives an argument to the question; Why Jesus Christ is a priest and that he is great high priest? Although Jesus did not come through the priestly line of Levi, he still is considered a priest. How can this be? The writer introduces a former Priest and King named Melchizedek. He then mentions how Melchizedek blessed Abraham who defeated invading kings in Genesis 14. Melchizedek had virtually no biographical information, but yet he was greater than Abraham and Abraham paid a tithe to him. He was a priest even before there was a priesthood or priestly line. The writer then uses Psalm 110 to stress that David the King of Jerusalem even mentioned how there was one who was a eternal priest following the order, meaning having no lineage, of Melchizedek. Who was is this eternal Priest? It is Jesus Christ. Jesus serves as the perfect and eternal high priest. Under the Mosaic Law the priest would have to come to the temple and offer up sacrifices for his own sins and then for the sins of the people. But because Jesus is of a different priesthood he had no need to offer up sacrifices for himself and He was able to offer one sacrifice on behalf of the people which was sufficient, complete, and eternal. His sacrificial death on the cross ushered in the better or the new covenant which the latter part of chapter 8 speaks about. So because he is the great, eternal, perfect, high priest not from the Levitical line, but after the order of Melchizedek, He is able to save all those who place their faith and trust in Him. Why? Because a role of the high priest is to represent his people before God and there is not a human being past, present, or future that is able to stand before God the Father. Believers in Jesus have a high priest who will stand for them forever. What great news! Since he is the ever-living high priest and has defeated sin, death, and the grave through his one-time sacrifice we can be completely confident in His ability to save those who draw near to God through HIM. Prayer: Jesus words cannot express how great you are. I am stunned at your greatness, faithfulness, and power. Thank you for providing so great a salvation. I am nothing and I have nothing before God Almighty, but You as my great, ever-living, high priest stand before the throne of God and represent me I then am forgiven and justified. Absolutely amazing! I bow before You as my great high priest and confess that I am unworthy, but I trusted you who has made me acceptable and worthy in the Father’s sight, because of your eternally sufficient sacrifice. Great is your name, Jesus and your position, King and Priest, in heaven and earth. Amen. Able To Save (Heb 7:25) 25 Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. In Chapter 7 the author gives an argument to the question; Why Jesus Christ is a priest and that he is great high priest? Although Jesus did not come through the priestly line of Levi, he still is considered a priest. How can this be? The writer introduces a former Priest and King named Melchizedek. He then mentions how Melchizedek blessed Abraham who defeated invading kings in Genesis 14. Melchizedek had virtually no biographical information, but yet he was greater than Abraham and Abraham paid a tithe to him. He was a priest even before there was a priesthood or priestly line. The writer then uses Psalm 110 to stress that David the King of Jerusalem even mentioned how there was one who was a eternal priest following the order, meaning having no lineage, of Melchizedek. Who was is this eternal Priest? It is Jesus Christ. Jesus serves as the perfect and eternal high priest. Under the Mosaic Law the priest would have to come to the temple and offer up sacrifices for his own sins and then for the sins of the people. But because Jesus is of a different priesthood he had no need to offer up sacrifices for himself and He was able to offer one sacrifice on behalf of the people which was sufficient, complete, and eternal. His sacrificial death on the cross ushered in the better or the new covenant which the latter part of chapter 8 speaks about. So because he is the great, eternal, perfect, high priest not from the Levitical line, but after the order of Melchizedek, He is able to save all those who place their faith and trust in Him. Why? Because a role of the high priest is to represent his people before God and there is not a human being past, present, or future that is able to stand before God the Father. Believers in Jesus have a high priest who will stand for them forever. What great news! Since he is the ever-living high priest and has defeated sin, death, and the grave through his one-time sacrifice we can be completely confident in His ability to save those who draw near to God through HIM. Prayer: Jesus words cannot express how great you are. I am stunned at your greatness, faithfulness, and power. Thank you for providing so great a salvation. I am nothing and I have nothing before God Almighty, but You as my great, ever-living, high priest stand before the throne of God and represent me I then am forgiven and justified. Absolutely amazing! I bow before You as my great high priest and confess that I am unworthy, but I trusted you who has made me acceptable and worthy in the Father’s sight, because of your eternally sufficient sacrifice. Great is your name, Jesus and your position, King and Priest, in heaven and earth. Amen. Rest http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212781http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212781 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 17:00:00 GMT 6/8/10 Hebrews 4-6 Rest Chapter 4 is a continuation on the subject of rest which began in chapter 3. God has given a promise of rest in the past and his promise of rest remains true today. The author uses an example of the Israelites who did not enter His rest because of their disobedience. His promise of rest was given to them, but they chose their own way. The rest the author is speaking of here is the eternal rest that is made possible by faith in Jesus Christ. Without faith in Jesus there is no way to enter this rest. Is this rest a sure thing? It is for those whose trust is completely in God’s word. God’s word has not been given to condemn us, but so we might acknowledge our weakness and deepest needs. God’s word serves as a tool to scrape away surface issues and symptoms evident in our lives and expose our weaknesses and greatest needs (Heb 4:12). Apart from Jesus there is no rest, both now or eternally. Jesus serves as our great high priest and he is able to identify with our weaknesses and our needs so there is immediate rest for those who draw near to the throne of grace, where mercy and grace are available. The idea of rest for me is particularly attractive right now. I personally have went much too long without taking sometime away from the weekly grind of ministry. In some ways I have been working harder than I ever have, but I have been confronted lately with some significant weaknesses and needs in my own life which I must address at the throne of grace and ask for mercy and grace. I am hoping in the next few weeks that I will be able to get some much needed physical rest and relaxation which I believe will stimulate spiritual rest and refreshment. Prayer: Father I thank you for your promises that are true every day. I ask that you will provide to me the mercy and grace necessary for me to experience some much need rest physically and spiritually in the coming weeks. Amen. 6/8/10 Hebrews 4-6 Rest Chapter 4 is a continuation on the subject of rest which began in chapter 3. God has given a promise of rest in the past and his promise of rest remains true today. The author uses an example of the Israelites who did not enter His rest because of their disobedience. His promise of rest was given to them, but they chose their own way. The rest the author is speaking of here is the eternal rest that is made possible by faith in Jesus Christ. Without faith in Jesus there is no way to enter this rest. Is this rest a sure thing? It is for those whose trust is completely in God’s word. God’s word has not been given to condemn us, but so we might acknowledge our weakness and deepest needs. God’s word serves as a tool to scrape away surface issues and symptoms evident in our lives and expose our weaknesses and greatest needs (Heb 4:12). Apart from Jesus there is no rest, both now or eternally. Jesus serves as our great high priest and he is able to identify with our weaknesses and our needs so there is immediate rest for those who draw near to the throne of grace, where mercy and grace are available. The idea of rest for me is particularly attractive right now. I personally have went much too long without taking sometime away from the weekly grind of ministry. In some ways I have been working harder than I ever have, but I have been confronted lately with some significant weaknesses and needs in my own life which I must address at the throne of grace and ask for mercy and grace. I am hoping in the next few weeks that I will be able to get some much needed physical rest and relaxation which I believe will stimulate spiritual rest and refreshment. Prayer: Father I thank you for your promises that are true every day. I ask that you will provide to me the mercy and grace necessary for me to experience some much need rest physically and spiritually in the coming weeks. Amen. Superior http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212700http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212700 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 19:00:00 GMT 6/7/10 Hebrews 1-3 Superior (Heb 1:3-4)3And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4having become as much better than the angels, as He has inherited a more excellent name than they. The author of Hebrews who is unknown was well versed in Old Testament theology. In the first three chapters we find the author quoting many different Old Testament texts mostly from the Psalms. The author completely understands who Jesus is and how the new covenant replaces the old covenant. The author begins the book stressing the superiority of Jesus in every way over the old covenant and the Law. Jesus is superior in the first chapter over the angels. The author uses several Old Testament texts as authoritative of stress to his readers that Jesus is superior to the angels. In chapter 3 the author introduces Jesus as the High Priest. There was no higher rank in the priesthood. Jesus is also superior to Moses who the Jews regarded as the greatest prophet. Why is Jesus superior in so many way? As the above verses mention it is because he is God. Jesus is the exact representation of the Father. (Col 1:15)15He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. The idea of firstborn of all creation here or in Heb 1:6 not suggesting being born first in chronological order, but rather have first place, preeminence, or highest rank, thus superior. The mentioning of Jesus being begotten in Heb 1:5 or John 3:16 means Jesus has a unique position and relationship with the Father. This does not mean that Jesus in eternity past did not exist or that he was created. If you look at verse 5 closely you will see that the Son is already living “you are my son” and “today” I have begotten you indicating there is a point in time when the Father and Son relationship entered into a new phase. Jesus is superior. Jesus is superior because he is the God-man. He is the exact image of God in the flesh. He is superior because he enjoys a relationship with he Father which no one else has including the angels. Jesus is superior because he has made possible purification from sins, something no animal could do. Jesus is superior because his power is sufficient enough to hold all things together. Jesus is superior because he has accomplished his work and is seated at the right hand of the Majesty on high. Jesus is superior because his name is greater than any other name. Prayer: Father I rejoice because Jesus is superior. I humbly bow before the LORD of all the earth and the KING of every kingdom. Jesus thank you for make possible for me purification of my sins. Thank you for being the superior sacrifice on my behalf. You deserve all worship and praise from all the inhabitants of the earth. It is my prayer that more hearts of men will turn toward you in reverent worship. You are superior to everything seen and unseen. May the name of Jesus be glorified forever and ever. Amen. 6/7/10 Hebrews 1-3 Superior (Heb 1:3-4) 3 And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having become as much better than the angels, as He has inherited a more excellent name than they. The author of Hebrews who is unknown was well versed in Old Testament theology. In the first three chapters we find the author quoting many different Old Testament texts mostly from the Psalms. The author completely understands who Jesus is and how the new covenant replaces the old covenant. The author begins the book stressing the superiority of Jesus in every way over the old covenant and the Law. Jesus is superior in the first chapter over the angels. The author uses several Old Testament texts as authoritative of stress to his readers that Jesus is superior to the angels. In chapter 3 the author introduces Jesus as the High Priest. There was no higher rank in the priesthood. Jesus is also superior to Moses who the Jews regarded as the greatest prophet. Why is Jesus superior in so many way? As the above verses mention it is because he is God. Jesus is the exact representation of the Father. (Col 1:15) 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. The idea of firstborn of all creation here or in Heb 1:6 not suggesting being born first in chronological order, but rather have first place, preeminence, or highest rank, thus superior. The mentioning of Jesus being begotten in Heb 1:5 or John 3:16 means Jesus has a unique position and relationship with the Father. This does not mean that Jesus in eternity past did not exist or that he was created. If you look at verse 5 closely you will see that the Son is already living “you are my son” and “today” I have begotten you indicating there is a point in time when the Father and Son relationship entered into a new phase. Jesus is superior. Jesus is superior because he is the God-man. He is the exact image of God in the flesh. He is superior because he enjoys a relationship with he Father which no one else has including the angels. Jesus is superior because he has made possible purification from sins, something no animal could do. Jesus is superior because his power is sufficient enough to hold all things together. Jesus is superior because he has accomplished his work and is seated at the right hand of the Majesty on high. Jesus is superior because his name is greater than any other name. Prayer: Father I rejoice because Jesus is superior. I humbly bow before the LORD of all the earth and the KING of every kingdom. Jesus thank you for make possible for me purification of my sins. Thank you for being the superior sacrifice on my behalf. You deserve all worship and praise from all the inhabitants of the earth. It is my prayer that more hearts of men will turn toward you in reverent worship. You are superior to everything seen and unseen. May the name of Jesus be glorified forever and ever. Amen. The Appeal http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212699http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212699 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 19:00:00 GMT 6/6/10 Titus 3 & Philemon The Appeal (Phm 9)9yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you—since I am such a person as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— Philemon is a short letter with just 25 verse to a wealthy man named Philemon. Apparently, Philemon was a wealthy business man who was committed to Christ and his church. Philemon had slaves and within the Roman culture of the time it was appropriate and ethical. We must remember as Americans that not every form of slavery through the centuries has been brutal, cruel, and unjust. Either way Onesimus one of his slaves ran away and journeyed to Rome where Paul was imprison. To make a journey from Asia Minor to Rome would take some finances and Onesimus probably stole from his master upon his running away. Paul’s appeal to Philemon is to welcome back Onesimus the runaway slave and to regard him as a brother in Christ and no longer consider him as a slave. Some way or another Onesimus and Paul crossed paths and Paul either led Onesimus to Christ or certainly had time to disciple him. Paul was also appealing that Philemon did not use Roman law, but Christian love as the standard for making right what had been a wrong on Onesimus’ part. Paul’s appeal is also an act of humility. Paul had the clout and respect of Philemon that he could have demanded how Onesimus was to be received, but instead he appeals through humility and that it is ultimately Philemon’s choice as to how he handles the situation. There are a couple of things that we can learn as we consider this letter. First, all relationships are important and deserve to be handled graciously. Philemon was a businessman and a slave owner and was there anything in his treatment of Onesimus that caused him to runaway? The scriptures do not say and anything beyond this possibility is only conjecture. Also the older apostle does not demand what Philemon must do upon the return of Onesimus, but rather he graciously makes a request. The Scriptures do not tells us what took place at the return of Onesimus, but some believe that Philemon did what Paul requested and that Onesimus went on to become a pastor in Ephesus based on some letters which Ignatius an, early church father, had sent to the city of Ephesus. Secondly, when we are wronged and defrauded that best course of action is necessarily recompense and repayment. There may be times when the circumstance demands that we suffer loss on our own account for the benefit of another or others. After all did not Christ display this for all mankind? It also follows a principle that Paul uses in the book of Corinthians when the wealthy were manipulating the court system to defraud and take advantage of the less fortunate. (1 Co 6:7)7Actually, then, it is already a defeat for you, that you have lawsuits with one another. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be defrauded? Let us each remember how we handle our relationships and our rights can advance the gospel. Prayer: Father you are glorious and mighty. Lord, by the power of the Holy Spirit transform me to be a person who is motivated in every relationship by the love of Christ. Additionally, transform my heart to be a person who does not demand my rights but appeals to You when my rights are violated trusting that you will bring about justice in your own timing, in Jesus name. Amen. 6/6/10 Titus 3 & Philemon The Appeal (Phm 9) 9 yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you —since I am such a person as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— Philemon is a short letter with just 25 verse to a wealthy man named Philemon. Apparently, Philemon was a wealthy business man who was committed to Christ and his church. Philemon had slaves and within the Roman culture of the time it was appropriate and ethical. We must remember as Americans that not every form of slavery through the centuries has been brutal, cruel, and unjust. Either way Onesimus one of his slaves ran away and journeyed to Rome where Paul was imprison. To make a journey from Asia Minor to Rome would take some finances and Onesimus probably stole from his master upon his running away. Paul’s appeal to Philemon is to welcome back Onesimus the runaway slave and to regard him as a brother in Christ and no longer consider him as a slave. Some way or another Onesimus and Paul crossed paths and Paul either led Onesimus to Christ or certainly had time to disciple him. Paul was also appealing that Philemon did not use Roman law, but Christian love as the standard for making right what had been a wrong on Onesimus’ part. Paul’s appeal is also an act of humility. Paul had the clout and respect of Philemon that he could have demanded how Onesimus was to be received, but instead he appeals through humility and that it is ultimately Philemon’s choice as to how he handles the situation. There are a couple of things that we can learn as we consider this letter. First, all relationships are important and deserve to be handled graciously. Philemon was a businessman and a slave owner and was there anything in his treatment of Onesimus that caused him to runaway? The scriptures do not say and anything beyond this possibility is only conjecture. Also the older apostle does not demand what Philemon must do upon the return of Onesimus, but rather he graciously makes a request. The Scriptures do not tells us what took place at the return of Onesimus, but some believe that Philemon did what Paul requested and that Onesimus went on to become a pastor in Ephesus based on some letters which Ignatius an, early church father, had sent to the city of Ephesus. Secondly, when we are wronged and defrauded that best course of action is necessarily recompense and repayment. There may be times when the circumstance demands that we suffer loss on our own account for the benefit of another or others. After all did not Christ display this for all mankind? It also follows a principle that Paul uses in the book of Corinthians when the wealthy were manipulating the court system to defraud and take advantage of the less fortunate. (1 Co 6:7) 7 Actually, then, it is already a defeat for you, that you have lawsuits with one another. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be defrauded? Let us each remember how we handle our relationships and our rights can advance the gospel. Prayer: Father you are glorious and mighty. Lord, by the power of the Holy Spirit transform me to be a person who is motivated in every relationship by the love of Christ. Additionally, transform my heart to be a person who does not demand my rights but appeals to You when my rights are violated trusting that you will bring about justice in your own timing, in Jesus name. Amen. Protect the Church http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212557http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212557 Sun, 06 Jun 2010 02:00:00 GMT 6/5/10 2 Timothy 4, Titus 1-2 Protect the Church (Tit 1:5) 5For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, Paul in Titus 1 and 2 addresses Titus another younger man who had been helping and assisting Paul sometime just prior to Paul’s second missionary journey. Paul had sent him at different times to different churches to handle the difficulties which were present. Titus seemed to be successful on so many of his missions especially diffusing the tension that existed between Paul and the Corinthian church (2 Cor 8:23). Paul’s letter to Titus was a letter of guidance and instruction concerning his mission at Crete. Crete was a difficult place and Titus was left there to do a couple of things for the church. The first item of business was for Titus to go through the island of Crete and appoint elders in the cities which had churches. Paul gives detailed but not exhaustive credentials as to who would be qualified to serve as an elders or pastors. This is necessary because a well-organized church with strong spiritual leaders in place proves to be a safe place where sound doctrine is taught. That was the second thing which Titus has the task of doing. To reprove severely those who are rebellious, empty talkers, and deceivers both of Gentile and Jewish backgrounds. Titus must take his stand against those who are not teaching sound doctrine. Paul then urges Titus to teach sound doctrine that will be evident in sound living. Paul gives real life examples on how various groups are to act and how they are to foster biblical, peaceful, growing relationships. Paul first breaks down these groups be age brackets and lastly by social bracket. Titus mission here is to protect the church in Crete. By the appointment of godly men and the identifying and rejection of rebellious false teachers and finally teaching sound doctrine with a view to everyday living the church will be a safe place where growth leading to purity and good deeds is evident. Prayer: Father and Lord of the churches, teach me what it means to organize the church. Keep me from teaching anything which is not sound doctrine even if that means going against tried and adored traditions. Where traditions are true and faithful I will rejoice, where they are not I ask for your grace to abandon them. Protect our church from rebellious, empty talkers and deceivers. Let no one upset your chosen ones, those of your flock. I pray that our church will become hungry for sound doctrine and sound living. I ask the Spirit to move upon us in a unique way producing purity and a zeal for good works in the name of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus. Amen. 6/5/10 2 Timothy 4, Titus 1-2 Protect the Church (Tit 1:5) 5 For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, Paul in Titus 1 and 2 addresses Titus another younger man who had been helping and assisting Paul sometime just prior to Paul’s second missionary journey. Paul had sent him at different times to different churches to handle the difficulties which were present. Titus seemed to be successful on so many of his missions especially diffusing the tension that existed between Paul and the Corinthian church (2 Cor 8:23). Paul’s letter to Titus was a letter of guidance and instruction concerning his mission at Crete. Crete was a difficult place and Titus was left there to do a couple of things for the church. The first item of business was for Titus to go through the island of Crete and appoint elders in the cities which had churches. Paul gives detailed but not exhaustive credentials as to who would be qualified to serve as an elders or pastors. This is necessary because a well-organized church with strong spiritual leaders in place proves to be a safe place where sound doctrine is taught. That was the second thing which Titus has the task of doing. To reprove severely those who are rebellious, empty talkers, and deceivers both of Gentile and Jewish backgrounds. Titus must take his stand against those who are not teaching sound doctrine. Paul then urges Titus to teach sound doctrine that will be evident in sound living. Paul gives real life examples on how various groups are to act and how they are to foster biblical, peaceful, growing relationships. Paul first breaks down these groups be age brackets and lastly by social bracket. Titus mission here is to protect the church in Crete. By the appointment of godly men and the identifying and rejection of rebellious false teachers and finally teaching sound doctrine with a view to everyday living the church will be a safe place where growth leading to purity and good deeds is evident. Prayer: Father and Lord of the churches, teach me what it means to organize the church. Keep me from teaching anything which is not sound doctrine even if that means going against tried and adored traditions. Where traditions are true and faithful I will rejoice, where they are not I ask for your grace to abandon them. Protect our church from rebellious, empty talkers and deceivers. Let no one upset your chosen ones, those of your flock. I pray that our church will become hungry for sound doctrine and sound living. I ask the Spirit to move upon us in a unique way producing purity and a zeal for good works in the name of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus. Amen. Entanglements http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212556http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212556 Sun, 06 Jun 2010 02:00:00 GMT 6/4/10 2 Timothy 2-3 Entanglements (2 Ti 2:4)4No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. In this second chapter of 2 Timothy Paul is encouraging the younger Timothy to be strong and persevere in his labor for Christ Jesus. Paul then uses three metaphors of individuals who must be single minded in their devotion if they are going to succeed in their profession. First, a soldier while in active service does not get entangled with the affairs of this life. He is separated from family and friends for the purpose of preparation or military battle. His desire should be to please his superiors and to accomplish the mission. No solider is fit for active duty who has his mind set on things other than the mission at hand. As we are learning in our bible study the mind of Christ as we serve Christ we must have one of the characteristics which Christ had and that is single-mindedness. Second, an athlete is mentioned about what it takes to compete and then how to compete. In the preparation and the competition an athlete must also keep himself from entanglements and his eyes focused on the goal. In highly competitive athletic events such as the Olympics even the slightest entanglement or loss of focus can result in losing a medal. Like the mind of Christ we must have a single-mind toward the end goal. Thirdly, a farmer is introduced but this is not just any farmer. This is a hard-working farmer. Personally I do not know any farmers that have not been hard-working. On the farm there is always work to be done. There is no time to get entangled in many frivolous activities. The animals and the crops demand constant attention. The farmer must also have a single-mind toward tending to the needs of the farm, because his and his families lively hood depend upon it. Will how about us? Are we living as soldiers? Are we living as the athlete with our eyes upon the goal? Are we living as the farmer persevering and working hard knowing some reward will come at the end of the season? More than ever we need to be people who are single-minded in our devotions and dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ. Dedication may look extreme or even ridiculous to those around us and some may even try to entangle us with empty and vain things, but we are to be redeeming the time for the days are evil. (Eph 5:15-16)15Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16making the most of your time, because the days are evil. Prayer: Father I ask that you would make me a wise man and a man that has the characteristic of a single-mind as my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ did. Protect me from the plethora of distractions and entanglements that assault my soul on a daily basis. I ask for your redeeming and sanctifying work to capture my mind, bring every thought into the captivity of Christ. Jesus I praise you for having a perfect mind. Oh, how I desire my mind to be as yours. Give me your servant single-mindedness according to your purposes. Always keep before my mind the day when I will stand before you and bow where you will examine my life’s service in your name. With this thought give me humility, joy, and love that will make this journey tolerable. 6/4/10 2 Timothy 2-3 Entanglements (2 Ti 2:4) 4 No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. In this second chapter of 2 Timothy Paul is encouraging the younger Timothy to be strong and persevere in his labor for Christ Jesus. Paul then uses three metaphors of individuals who must be single minded in their devotion if they are going to succeed in their profession. First, a soldier while in active service does not get entangled with the affairs of this life. He is separated from family and friends for the purpose of preparation or military battle. His desire should be to please his superiors and to accomplish the mission. No solider is fit for active duty who has his mind set on things other than the mission at hand. As we are learning in our bible study the mind of Christ as we serve Christ we must have one of the characteristics which Christ had and that is single-mindedness. Second, an athlete is mentioned about what it takes to compete and then how to compete. In the preparation and the competition an athlete must also keep himself from entanglements and his eyes focused on the goal. In highly competitive athletic events such as the Olympics even the slightest entanglement or loss of focus can result in losing a medal. Like the mind of Christ we must have a single-mind toward the end goal. Thirdly, a farmer is introduced but this is not just any farmer. This is a hard-working farmer. Personally I do not know any farmers that have not been hard-working. On the farm there is always work to be done. There is no time to get entangled in many frivolous activities. The animals and the crops demand constant attention. The farmer must also have a single-mind toward tending to the needs of the farm, because his and his families lively hood depend upon it. Will how about us? Are we living as soldiers? Are we living as the athlete with our eyes upon the goal? Are we living as the farmer persevering and working hard knowing some reward will come at the end of the season? More than ever we need to be people who are single-minded in our devotions and dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ. Dedication may look extreme or even ridiculous to those around us and some may even try to entangle us with empty and vain things, but we are to be redeeming the time for the days are evil. (Eph 5:15-16) 15 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. Prayer: Father I ask that you would make me a wise man and a man that has the characteristic of a single-mind as my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ did. Protect me from the plethora of distractions and entanglements that assault my soul on a daily basis. I ask for your redeeming and sanctifying work to capture my mind, bring every thought into the captivity of Christ. Jesus I praise you for having a perfect mind. Oh, how I desire my mind to be as yours. Give me your servant single-mindedness according to your purposes. Always keep before my mind the day when I will stand before you and bow where you will examine my life’s service in your name. With this thought give me humility, joy, and love that will make this journey tolerable. Power, Love, Discipline http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212466http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212466 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 03:00:00 GMT 6/3/10 1 Timothy 6 & 2 Timothy 1 Power, Love, Discipline (2 Ti 1:7)7For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Paul gives exhortation and encouragement here in this first chapter of the second letter to Timothy. Paul was probably released from prison in Rome and now has been arrested again. Paul senses that his death is probably imminent and he sends this passionate and final letter to Timothy to carry on the faith and the mission as Paul has done. There is a tremendous calling for young Timothy as there seems to be a hardening to the message of the gospel by the world. The apostles are quickly approaching their final days. Now the baton will be passed to the next generation. Paul reminds Timothy that God has not given a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. The power that God gives will prove sufficient to face the suffering that will result from preaching and teaching the gospel. The love which God gives will motivate Timothy to not become idle and complacent concerning his calling to proclaim Jesus as Savior. The discipline which God has given will be necessary to carry out this calling, keep the standard of sound words, and to guard the treasure or spiritual inheritance which had been entrusted to Timothy. Often believers do not live as if they have been given the power of God, the love of God, and the discipline needed to face a hostile world. Where are the Christians? Where are the saints of old who took the gospel message anywhere and everywhere in power, love, and discipline no matter what suffering may occur? Prayer: All Powerful Father, forgive me for my timidity. Forgive your bride for ever being ashamed of her bridegroom. Lord, you have given your church everything needed to face a hostile and wicked generation. We are guilty of seek our own comfort rather than comforting those who do not know comfort. I plead for your forgiveness. I pray for you to transform me to trust in your power rather than my own, to rely on your love so I will love the unlovable, and for discipline to carry out your calling and gifting in my life. I am inadequate in myself and in my strength. I seek your grace. Kindle afresh the gift of God which has been given. I ask this for the sake of your great and might name, for my Savior and the Savior of all men Christ Jesus. Amen. 6/3/10 1 Timothy 6 & 2 Timothy 1 Power, Love, Discipline (2 Ti 1:7) 7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Paul gives exhortation and encouragement here in this first chapter of the second letter to Timothy. Paul was probably released from prison in Rome and now has been arrested again. Paul senses that his death is probably imminent and he sends this passionate and final letter to Timothy to carry on the faith and the mission as Paul has done. There is a tremendous calling for young Timothy as there seems to be a hardening to the message of the gospel by the world. The apostles are quickly approaching their final days. Now the baton will be passed to the next generation. Paul reminds Timothy that God has not given a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. The power that God gives will prove sufficient to face the suffering that will result from preaching and teaching the gospel. The love which God gives will motivate Timothy to not become idle and complacent concerning his calling to proclaim Jesus as Savior. The discipline which God has given will be necessary to carry out this calling, keep the standard of sound words, and to guard the treasure or spiritual inheritance which had been entrusted to Timothy. Often believers do not live as if they have been given the power of God, the love of God, and the discipline needed to face a hostile world. Where are the Christians? Where are the saints of old who took the gospel message anywhere and everywhere in power, love, and discipline no matter what suffering may occur? Prayer: All Powerful Father, forgive me for my timidity. Forgive your bride for ever being ashamed of her bridegroom. Lord, you have given your church everything needed to face a hostile and wicked generation. We are guilty of seek our own comfort rather than comforting those who do not know comfort. I plead for your forgiveness. I pray for you to transform me to trust in your power rather than my own, to rely on your love so I will love the unlovable, and for discipline to carry out your calling and gifting in my life. I am inadequate in myself and in my strength. I seek your grace. Kindle afresh the gift of God which has been given. I ask this for the sake of your great and might name, for my Savior and the Savior of all men Christ Jesus. Amen. Discipline http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212175http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212175 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:00:00 GMT 6/2/10 1 Timothy 4-5 Discipline (1 Ti 4:7b-8)7bOn the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; 8for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. Here Paul is encouraging young Timothy to be disciplined in doctrine and living. In the first section of chapter 4 Paul urges Timothy that he must pay attention to men who are teaching deceitful and damaging doctrine. He gives examples of their teaching which forbids marriage and to abstain from certain foods. Timothy is to point out these deceitful doctrines and teach sound doctrine. He is not to get involved into endless and fruitless debates with those who are teaching these doctrines, but rather Timothy is to discipline himself for the purpose of godliness. Timothy must be single-minded in his pursuit of godliness. We can spend so much of our time on physical exercises and activities that do not have any eternal value. Many can be beneficial for this life so we are not to neglect physical exercise altogether, but spiritual exercise is beneficial not only for this life, but also for the life to come. So the wise use of time and a good investment of time is to discipline ourselves for godliness. Notice discipline is going to take time, but it also requires labor and striving as verse 10 points out. As Timothy demonstrates to others his spiritual discipline he will be a living example of what that looks like as he responds to those who are older than him. With godliness in five areas speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity Timothy will give those who are older than him an example and also confidence in his leadership. Paul also instructs him to give attention to three specific areas regarding his pastoral role, public reading of Scripture, exhortation or preaching, and teaching. These areas require spending great amounts of time and discipline if they are to be done accurately and well. You will notice in verse 16 that Timothy is to pay close attention to his lifestyle and to his teaching. In other words he is to ‘walk the talk’ and notice the verb that follows; persevere. This is not easy and there have been many who have rejected the truth because someone in their life preached it, but did not live it. Chapter 4 has pointed that spiritual discipline requires a great deal of attention. Timothy is to be disciplined in spiritual exercises so that he is equipped to defend deceitful doctrine, live an exemplary life before old and young, be faithful to read, preach, and teach the scriptures, and that his living and teach are consistent, which will ensure salvation for himself and those who hear him. You may think well that’s great for Timothy, but I am not a pastor. Let us remember (2 Ti 3:16)16All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;” notice all scripture is profitable. So what can you learn? You can learn that you also should discipline yourself with spiritual exercises. It is going to take time, effort, and consistency. Think about your personal reading of scripture how much time is spent? How consistent are you in your reading of scripture? When you hear the preaching and teaching of scriptures do you discipline your mind to listen to what is being said or does it drift and day dream? Is your commitment to worship and bible study irregular or faithful? What about your lifestyle, is it consistent with what the scriptures teach? How about your example to others in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity? To sum it all up we all must discipline ourselves so that our belief, doctrine, and lifestyle are faithful and consistent to scripture. Prayer: Father, I ask your Spirit to motivate my will toward greater discipline in spiritual things. Lord, I ask that my doctrine and living would be consistent and faithful to You. I want to display Your character through my life. Show me today where areas of my life that I must give attention to better display your character. I ask for a fresh dose of your grace to persevere in all things that lead to godliness. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. 6/2/10 1 Timothy 4-5 Discipline (1 Ti 4:7b-8) 7b On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; 8 for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. Here Paul is encouraging young Timothy to be disciplined in doctrine and living. In the first section of chapter 4 Paul urges Timothy that he must pay attention to men who are teaching deceitful and damaging doctrine. He gives examples of their teaching which forbids marriage and to abstain from certain foods. Timothy is to point out these deceitful doctrines and teach sound doctrine. He is not to get involved into endless and fruitless debates with those who are teaching these doctrines, but rather Timothy is to discipline himself for the purpose of godliness. Timothy must be single-minded in his pursuit of godliness. We can spend so much of our time on physical exercises and activities that do not have any eternal value. Many can be beneficial for this life so we are not to neglect physical exercise altogether, but spiritual exercise is beneficial not only for this life, but also for the life to come. So the wise use of time and a good investment of time is to discipline ourselves for godliness. Notice discipline is going to take time, but it also requires labor and striving as verse 10 points out. As Timothy demonstrates to others his spiritual discipline he will be a living example of what that looks like as he responds to those who are older than him. With godliness in five areas speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity Timothy will give those who are older than him an example and also confidence in his leadership. Paul also instructs him to give attention to three specific areas regarding his pastoral role, public reading of Scripture, exhortation or preaching, and teaching. These areas require spending great amounts of time and discipline if they are to be done accurately and well. You will notice in verse 16 that Timothy is to pay close attention to his lifestyle and to his teaching. In other words he is to ‘walk the talk’ and notice the verb that follows; persevere. This is not easy and there have been many who have rejected the truth because someone in their life preached it, but did not live it. Chapter 4 has pointed that spiritual discipline requires a great deal of attention. Timothy is to be disciplined in spiritual exercises so that he is equipped to defend deceitful doctrine, live an exemplary life before old and young, be faithful to read, preach, and teach the scriptures, and that his living and teach are consistent, which will ensure salvation for himself and those who hear him. You may think well that’s great for Timothy, but I am not a pastor. Let us remember (2 Ti 3:16) 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;” notice all scripture is profitable. So what can you learn? You can learn that you also should discipline yourself with spiritual exercises. It is going to take time, effort, and consistency. Think about your personal reading of scripture how much time is spent? How consistent are you in your reading of scripture? When you hear the preaching and teaching of scriptures do you discipline your mind to listen to what is being said or does it drift and day dream? Is your commitment to worship and bible study irregular or faithful? What about your... Pray for Who? http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212137http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212137 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 19:00:00 GMT 6/1/10 1 Timothy 1-3 Pray for Who? (1 Ti 2:1) 1First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, When we come to prayer we often think of praying for those whom we love the most. It tends to be difficult for us to pray for those that we do not know personally. Here is 1 Timothy 2:2 Paul urges Timothy to pray on the behalf of all men. Who are some of these men that Paul has in mind? Paul has in mind kings and those who are in authority and have the ability to lead groups of people into tranquil quiet living. How many of us can say that we faithfully pray for our leaders? For the most part we live peaceful lives, but we take for granted there are many men and women who have been entrusted with making decisions for groups of people. See it is easy for us to criticize and complain about our representatives and officials, but how often do we bring them and their decision making before the throne of grace. If you have ever led a group a people you understand that you must make decisions and that any decision at any time has the opportunity to take a peaceful situation and turn it into a riotous one. As a result of the recent Deepwater Horizon oil rig catastrophe everyone is quick to point the finger and blame others, but let’s ask who is willing to be held accountable for this situation? Who would volunteer at this point to be the ‘go to guy’ for solving this dilemma? Count how many times you have heard or complained about this situation? But have we prayed for those involved? Have we prayed for our leaders, have we asked God to give our leaders a solution? I guess for the most part we do not see this affecting us in a personal way so we are rather cynical and distant regarding the entire episode. But this may affect us more personally that we currently realize. About a month before this tragic event, there was mention from the White House of plans to begin offshore drilling. I have not heard anything since. I doubt we will. So before this crisis there was apparently some sort of decision that was made concerning our oil production or oil dependence. Now that decision appears to become null and void. But was that decision for more offshore drilling a good decision? And one that would protect the United States from increased dependency on foreign oil supplies? We may never know, but if in the not too distant future we find ourselves riding bikes instead of driving cars we might be able to point to this crisis as a piece of the puzzle. So have you prayed on behalf of all men, especially leaders and authorities? UPDATE: June 5 2010 <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/06/04/gulf-lawmakers-plead-obama-ease-drilling-ban-warn-economic-blow/">http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/06/04/gulf-lawmakers-plead-obama-ease-drilling-ban-warn-economic-blow/</a> "Obama was looking to expand offshore drilling before the BP disaster. The explosion led him to rethink that element of his energy plan, as he delayed or canceled lease <a href="http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/#" id="KonaLink3" class="kLink" target="undefined">sales</a> in the Gulf, off the coast of Virginia and off the coast of Alaska." <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2010/06/03/news/economy/drilling_ban_job_impact/index.htm">http://money.cnn.com/2010/06/03/news/economy/drilling_ban_job_impact/index.htm</a> NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The White House responded Thursday to concerns that the ban on drilling for oil in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico will cost the region thousands of jobs. "The six month moratorium on deepwater drilling was instituted for a clear reason," White House spokesman Ben LaBolt told CNN. "The President believes we must ensure that the BP Deepwater Horizon spill is never repeated." Prayer: Father I pray for our leaders and officials that are involved in solving this oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico. Give them wisdom as how to handle this current situations and the fallout of legal issues that will result. I ask that You would turn leaders hearts that are self-sufficient to humble dependence upon You. Father, You have in mind how this oil leak can be stopped. I ask that you will give wisdom to those who are able to receive it so that your name may be glorified even in this. I pray that this will not cause our nation to lose its tranquility and quiet life enjoyed by many families in this nation. God exalt Yourself in this day and with our leaders. Show them the strength of Your power and Your perfect wisdom. I thank You that You solved the greatest problem of all time. You provided the world with a Savior from sin and death who is able to save any who come to Him and the knowledge of the truth, in His name Jesus I pray. Amen. 6/1/10 1 Timothy 1-3 Pray for Who? (1 Ti 2:1) 1 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, When we come to prayer we often think of praying for those whom we love the most. It tends to be difficult for us to pray for those that we do not know personally. Here is 1 Timothy 2:2 Paul urges Timothy to pray on the behalf of all men. Who are some of these men that Paul has in mind? Paul has in mind kings and those who are in authority and have the ability to lead groups of people into tranquil quiet living. How many of us can say that we faithfully pray for our leaders? For the most part we live peaceful lives, but we take for granted there are many men and women who have been entrusted with making decisions for groups of people. See it is easy for us to criticize and complain about our representatives and officials, but how often do we bring them and their decision making before the throne of grace. If you have ever led a group a people you understand that you must make decisions and that any decision at any time has the opportunity to take a peaceful situation and turn it into a riotous one. As a result of the recent Deepwater Horizon oil rig catastrophe everyone is quick to point the finger and blame others, but let’s ask who is willing to be held accountable for this situation? Who would volunteer at this point to be the ‘go to guy’ for solving this dilemma? Count how many times you have heard or complained about this situation? But have we prayed for those involved? Have we prayed for our leaders, have we asked God to give our leaders a solution? I guess for the most part we do not see this affecting us in a personal way so we are rather cynical and distant regarding the entire episode. But this may affect us more personally that we currently realize. About a month before this tragic event, there was mention from the White House of plans to begin offshore drilling. I have not heard anything since. I doubt we will. So before this crisis there was apparently some sort of decision that was made concerning our oil production or oil dependence. Now that decision appears to become null and void. But was that decision for more offshore drilling a good decision? And one that would protect the United States from increased dependency on foreign oil supplies? We may never know, but if in the not too distant future we find ourselves riding bikes instead of driving cars we might be able to point to this crisis as a piece of the puzzle. So have you prayed on behalf of all men, especially leaders and authorities? UPDATE: June 5 2010 http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/06/04/gulf-lawmakers-plead-obama-ease-drilling-ban-warn-economic-blow/ "Obama was looking to expand offshore drilling before the BP disaster. The explosion led him to rethink that element of his energy plan, as he delayed or canceled lease sales in the Gulf, off the coast of Virginia and off the coast of Alaska." http://money.cnn.com/2010/06/03/news/economy/drilling_ban_job_impact/index.htm NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The White House responded Thursday to concerns that the ban on drilling for oil in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico will cost the region thousands of jobs. "The six month moratorium on deepwater drilling was instituted for a clear reason," White House spokesman Ben LaBolt told CNN. "The President believes we must ensure that the BP Deepwater Horizon spill is never repeated." Prayer: Father I pray... The Lord is Faithful http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212136http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212136 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 19:00:00 GMT 5/31/10 2 Thess 2-3 The Lord is Faithful (2 Th 3:3)3But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. The Thessalonian church was experiencing increased persecutions and sufferings. This second letter followed just a short time after the first letter to the church. It is apparent that the persecutions and afflictions seemed to have increased and Paul is trying to encourage this little church to continue on in the faith, to continue on loving one another, to continue on following his commands, to continue on in doing good toward others. He encourages the church that God will repay all of those who are afflicting them. He reminds them with this verse that God is faithful. God has not missed or been unaware of what is taking place among them. Not only have the been experiencing persecution and affliction outside of the church, but apparently now there are some who have come into the church and cause division and discouragement concerning the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thess 2:2). Some had been so convinced that Jesus return was so soon that they quit working and lived off of the generosity of their fellow members. Paul instructs the benevolent minded believers to no longer allow those who are capable of working to defrauded them any longer. Paul gives some clarity to the second coming of Christ to this church who have been rattled by a fabricated or distorted teaching presumed to be from Paul (2 Thess 2:2). Chapter 2 for us has some difficulties because we do not know the other side of the conversation that took place when Paul was with them and teaching them about this doctrine (2 Thess 2:5). We must seek to carefully study these passages but our main focus should not be to determine times and epochs, but rather to be alert and self-controlled anticipating the return of Christ. The Lord is faithful. A holy God is a faithful and just God and He cannot allow injustices to go unpunished or corrected. A faithful God fulfills his promises and since He has said that Christ will return we can confidently expect His return. In the mean time we can live with the confident promise that God will strengthen and protect us from the evil one. Prayer: Father I praise you for your faithfulness in all things. Whatever you have said will come to past. I do not have to doubt or wonder as to if you will come through. You always come through. I ask that you prepare me to be ready for the Lord Jesus’ return. I ask that you will strengthen me to do your work until He comes. I ask for you divine protection over me, my family, all those I love, and all who are of the household of faith. Prepare my mind and heart for what is before me that I will be faithful as you are faithful. Thank that I have seen so many people who have been faithful and true to you over the years. I ask that I will be that faithful person to others where they will be encouraged to not grow weary in doing good even in the face of persecution or division, even so come Lord Jesus. Amen. 5/31/10 2 Thess 2-3 The Lord is Faithful (2 Th 3:3) 3 But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. The Thessalonian church was experiencing increased persecutions and sufferings. This second letter followed just a short time after the first letter to the church. It is apparent that the persecutions and afflictions seemed to have increased and Paul is trying to encourage this little church to continue on in the faith, to continue on loving one another, to continue on following his commands, to continue on in doing good toward others. He encourages the church that God will repay all of those who are afflicting them. He reminds them with this verse that God is faithful. God has not missed or been unaware of what is taking place among them. Not only have the been experiencing persecution and affliction outside of the church, but apparently now there are some who have come into the church and cause division and discouragement concerning the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thess 2:2). Some had been so convinced that Jesus return was so soon that they quit working and lived off of the generosity of their fellow members. Paul instructs the benevolent minded believers to no longer allow those who are capable of working to defrauded them any longer. Paul gives some clarity to the second coming of Christ to this church who have been rattled by a fabricated or distorted teaching presumed to be from Paul (2 Thess 2:2). Chapter 2 for us has some difficulties because we do not know the other side of the conversation that took place when Paul was with them and teaching them about this doctrine (2 Thess 2:5). We must seek to carefully study these passages but our main focus should not be to determine times and epochs, but rather to be alert and self-controlled anticipating the return of Christ. The Lord is faithful. A holy God is a faithful and just God and He cannot allow injustices to go unpunished or corrected. A faithful God fulfills his promises and since He has said that Christ will return we can confidently expect His return. In the mean time we can live with the confident promise that God will strengthen and protect us from the evil one. Prayer: Father I praise you for your faithfulness in all things. Whatever you have said will come to past. I do not have to doubt or wonder as to if you will come through. You always come through. I ask that you prepare me to be ready for the Lord Jesus’ return. I ask that you will strengthen me to do your work until He comes. I ask for you divine protection over me, my family, all those I love, and all who are of the household of faith. Prepare my mind and heart for what is before me that I will be faithful as you are faithful. Thank that I have seen so many people who have been faithful and true to you over the years. I ask that I will be that faithful person to others where they will be encouraged to not grow weary in doing good even in the face of persecution or division, even so come Lord Jesus. Amen. Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212081http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212081 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 03:00:00 GMT 5/30/10 1 Thess 5 & 2 Thess 1 Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks (1 Th 5:16-18)16Rejoice always; 17pray without ceasing; 18in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. This is God’s will for a believer’s life. A believer is to be joyful. When we consider the great grace and salvation that has been provided by Jesus Christ there should be nothing that would steal our joy. This does not mean believers go around day to day with permanent smiles on their faces, but as a believer encounters and walks with the living Christ there should be a joy that is evident in their life. (Ps16:11)11You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. If you want ultimate joy practice the presence of Christ in your life. Certainly, all believer’s happiness wanes at times but happiness is different than joy in that happiness is based upon current circumstances and joy on eternal realities. Too many people are looking to be happy instead of desiring to be united with Jesus Christ. A great way to practice the presence of Christ and be united with Christ is to spend time in prayer. The meaning of ‘praying without ceasing’ does not mean that it is continuous and without interruption. It means that prayer is part of your lifestyle. Praying is frequent, regular, persistent, and often. When a believer understands that God goes with you wherever you go, because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, then praying is just like speaking with a spouse, child, or a close friend. How many times do you speak with those you are closest to? Our praying should be like an on-going conversation thus unceasing, it is perpetual. God’s desire (will) is that you would take time to speak with him face to face at times, on the way to your appointments, during your breaks, not just before meals but during them, and a host of other times. Thirdly, God’s will is that in everything believers give thanks. Now we all know that everything includes a host of which we are not thankful. I think that the important thing to realize is that there are moments when we will certainly not have an attitude of thankfulness, but as we seek and submit to God’s way we will be able to come to a point where even the most painful experience can be offered as a sacrifice to God as thankful worship. We have heard of testimonies or even admit that when we were children we did not like what our parents did, but when we matured we learned to be thankful for the “NO’s” and “DO’s” even when at the moment we were not thankful. We came to understand that their commands where from different perspective and filled with love. Our great Father in heaven does the same for his children. So if there is pain in which you cannot be thankful for now, just know that as you mature you will come to a point to be thankful. Prayer: Father thank you for giving us three simple commands here concerning your will. I pray that I will now be faithful to do as you command. Oh, Lord may I understand your presence in my life in a new and fresh way. Show me more of you and less of me. Give me your joy and forgive me for seek happiness based on things and circumstances. Transform my mind and attitude to be a person filled with joy at the deepest levels. I ask for a more disciplined prayer life. Teach me the benefits of abiding in your presence and involving you in my daily routines of life. Father give me a spirit of thankfulness. Show me what you are doing in situations where I will have a Godly understanding and perspective that can genuinely give abundant thanks to You, in Jesus name. Amen. 5/30/10 1 Thess 5 & 2 Thess 1 Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks (1 Th 5:16-18) 16 Rejoice always; 17 pray without ceasing; 18 in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. This is God’s will for a believer’s life. A believer is to be joyful. When we consider the great grace and salvation that has been provided by Jesus Christ there should be nothing that would steal our joy. This does not mean believers go around day to day with permanent smiles on their faces, but as a believer encounters and walks with the living Christ there should be a joy that is evident in their life. (Ps16:11) 11 You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. If you want ultimate joy practice the presence of Christ in your life. Certainly, all believer’s happiness wanes at times but happiness is different than joy in that happiness is based upon current circumstances and joy on eternal realities. Too many people are looking to be happy instead of desiring to be united with Jesus Christ. A great way to practice the presence of Christ and be united with Christ is to spend time in prayer. The meaning of ‘praying without ceasing’ does not mean that it is continuous and without interruption. It means that prayer is part of your lifestyle. Praying is frequent, regular, persistent, and often. When a believer understands that God goes with you wherever you go, because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, then praying is just like speaking with a spouse, child, or a close friend. How many times do you speak with those you are closest to? Our praying should be like an on-going conversation thus unceasing, it is perpetual. God’s desire (will) is that you would take time to speak with him face to face at times, on the way to your appointments, during your breaks, not just before meals but during them, and a host of other times. Thirdly, God’s will is that in everything believers give thanks. Now we all know that everything includes a host of which we are not thankful. I think that the important thing to realize is that there are moments when we will certainly not have an attitude of thankfulness, but as we seek and submit to God’s way we will be able to come to a point where even the most painful experience can be offered as a sacrifice to God as thankful worship. We have heard of testimonies or even admit that when we were children we did not like what our parents did, but when we matured we learned to be thankful for the “NO’s” and “DO’s” even when at the moment we were not thankful. We came to understand that their commands where from different perspective and filled with love. Our great Father in heaven does the same for his children. So if there is pain in which you cannot be thankful for now, just know that as you mature you will come to a point to be thankful. Prayer: Father thank you for giving us three simple commands here concerning your will. I pray that I will now be faithful to do as you command. Oh, Lord may I understand your presence in my life in a new and fresh way. Show me more of you and less of me. Give me your joy and forgive me for seek happiness based on things and circumstances. Transform my mind and attitude to be a person filled with joy at the deepest levels. I ask for a more disciplined prayer life. Teach me the benefits of abiding in your presence and involving you in my daily routines of life. Father give me a spirit of thankfulness. Show... Excel Still More http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212006http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=212006 Sun, 30 May 2010 01:00:00 GMT 5/29/10 1 Thess 3 & 4 Excel Still More Paul has a great deal of love and affection toward the church at Thessalonica. They had been suffering hardship and affliction so Paul sent Timothy to go and visit the church at Thessalonica. Paul had feared that this beloved church had been tempted to depart from the gospel so Timothy was sent to investigate their faith. Timothy returns to Paul who is in Corinth with good news concern their faith. Paul then proceeds to write this first letter to the Thessalonians in response to what Timothy had reported. There are two things that Paul desires to stress and exhort concerning their faith. In the final section he clears ups some misunderstanding about the return of Christ. The two things that he stresses to this beloved church are that they continue to walk (live) in such a way that they will please God. He recognizes that this church has been conducting themselves rightly, but he does not want them to become comfortable which can develop into complacency. Instead he desires that they would excel all the more. Paul tells them what God’s will is, a question many people desire to know, Paul flat out says the will of God is your sanctification. Sanctification means the continuing development of the whole person to become perfect, separated, and holy. It is the divine work of the Holy Spirit that begins at regeneration (salvation) and continues until a believer takes his last breath. The second thing that Paul stressed concerned the love of the brethren. Paul had heard of their love for each other and other churches in the region. In fact it was so evident and strong that there really was no need to write to them concerning this area, they were doing well. But Paul still strongly urges them not to “pat themselves on the back” and then become proud and satisfied. They must continue to excel still more in the love of the brethren. As soon as we assume that we have mastered or perfected any area in the Christian life we then are actually demonstrating how much we truly lack in our knowledge and our faith. No matter where you are in your Christian life there is room for growth and strengthening. The temptation that we face on our journey of faith is to take our eyes of the Lord’s standard and compare ourselves with others. When we do this we are in jeopardy of becoming satisfied and comfortable in an area that Christ does not command us to be satisfied and content. We should never settle for the status quo. No matter what level of attainment you have reached in your walk or love for the brethren there is always more. The church or believer that desires to excel still the more may be the one that actually raises the bar and set a new standard for those who follow. So let us excel still more. Prayer: Heavenly, Gracious, Merciful, Loving Father, be pleased with my living. I ask that the Spirit to motivate me to excel still the more. Balance my tendency to over work at the detriment to right living that you have called me to. LORD, I pray that you will sanctify our church and that it will excel still more also. Convict and instruct the church in your will, our sanctification. Make us holy, separated, and clean before you presence. Develop a greater love for one another, for the brethren, and all men, in Jesus name. Amen. 5/29/10 1 Thess 3 & 4 Excel Still More Paul has a great deal of love and affection toward the church at Thessalonica. They had been suffering hardship and affliction so Paul sent Timothy to go and visit the church at Thessalonica. Paul had feared that this beloved church had been tempted to depart from the gospel so Timothy was sent to investigate their faith. Timothy returns to Paul who is in Corinth with good news concern their faith. Paul then proceeds to write this first letter to the Thessalonians in response to what Timothy had reported. There are two things that Paul desires to stress and exhort concerning their faith. In the final section he clears ups some misunderstanding about the return of Christ. The two things that he stresses to this beloved church are that they continue to walk (live) in such a way that they will please God. He recognizes that this church has been conducting themselves rightly, but he does not want them to become comfortable which can develop into complacency. Instead he desires that they would excel all the more. Paul tells them what God’s will is, a question many people desire to know, Paul flat out says the will of God is your sanctification. Sanctification means the continuing development of the whole person to become perfect, separated, and holy. It is the divine work of the Holy Spirit that begins at regeneration (salvation) and continues until a believer takes his last breath. The second thing that Paul stressed concerned the love of the brethren. Paul had heard of their love for each other and other churches in the region. In fact it was so evident and strong that there really was no need to write to them concerning this area, they were doing well. But Paul still strongly urges them not to “pat themselves on the back” and then become proud and satisfied. They must continue to excel still more in the love of the brethren. As soon as we assume that we have mastered or perfected any area in the Christian life we then are actually demonstrating how much we truly lack in our knowledge and our faith. No matter where you are in your Christian life there is room for growth and strengthening. The temptation that we face on our journey of faith is to take our eyes of the Lord’s standard and compare ourselves with others. When we do this we are in jeopardy of becoming satisfied and comfortable in an area that Christ does not command us to be satisfied and content. We should never settle for the status quo. No matter what level of attainment you have reached in your walk or love for the brethren there is always more. The church or believer that desires to excel still the more may be the one that actually raises the bar and set a new standard for those who follow. So let us excel still more. Prayer: Heavenly, Gracious, Merciful, Loving Father, be pleased with my living. I ask that the Spirit to motivate me to excel still the more. Balance my tendency to over work at the detriment to right living that you have called me to. LORD, I pray that you will sanctify our church and that it will excel still more also. Convict and instruct the church in your will, our sanctification. Make us holy, separated, and clean before you presence. Develop a greater love for one another, for the brethren, and all men, in Jesus name. Amen. A Gospel Response http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211983http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211983 Sat, 29 May 2010 02:00:00 GMT 5/28/10 Colossians 4 & 1 Thess 1 &2 (1 Th 1:3)3constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father, A Gospel Response The church at Thessalonica was a church that had a gospel response. The gospel can be briefly summarized as follows; God, Man, Christ, Response. If the gospel is proclaimed faithfully then the message must accurately describe God, speak of Man’s plight and current condition, share the person and work of Jesus Christ, after these truths there are two options; to be a recipient or a rejecter. Some individuals in Thessalonica had definitely received the good news found in Jesus Christ. The evidence of this reception is threefold in 1 Thess 1:3. First Paul mentions their work of faith, then their labor of love, and lastly their steadfastness of hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. These characteristics are evidences of the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember also of all the gifts the three that remain are faith, hope, and love (1 Cor 13:13). When this group of individuals heard the gospel message it came not in words only, but with power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. (Father, I pray that when I and my brothers and sisters in the faith share, proclaim, describe, or tell the gospel message that it will be with power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full conviction.) They responded and their response was to imitate those who brought the message and of the Lord. They responded and became imitators of the church in Judea. They responded joyful because of the power of the Holy Spirit in the face of much tribulation and suffering just as the churches in Judea. They responded to serve the living God and rejected their dead idols. There response was so noticeable and their work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness in hope was so exemplary that a testimony and witness went out in their region and beyond. When there is a gospel response there is thankfulness and the word of God performs its transforming work in those who have believed or responded. (1 Th 2:13)13For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe. Prayer: Almighty, Holy, Gracious, and Glorious Father, thank you for the gospel. I praise you Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Give me the boldness to proclaim the gospel amidst opposition. All the earth is yours and there is nothing greater than you in the entire world. Father I pray that the power of the Holy Spirit would fall upon me and those who share the gospel message. God, I plead that the Holy Spirit might again blow upon the American churches so a testimony will go out into all the world to every nation, tribe, and tongue. Father, so much of what the American church has become should not be imitated. Visit us again mighty Spirit and may the word of God produces it’s transforming work that our churches would be something to be imitated and people again would come to you with fear and trembling as they hear the gospel message with power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full conviction. Oh, Lord we need you desperately, for Your Kingdom and Your glory on earth as it is in heaven, for the cause of Jesus Christ, in His name I pray. Amen. 5/28/10 Colossians 4 & 1 Thess 1 &2 (1 Th 1:3) 3 constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father, A Gospel Response The church at Thessalonica was a church that had a gospel response. The gospel can be briefly summarized as follows; God, Man, Christ, Response. If the gospel is proclaimed faithfully then the message must accurately describe God, speak of Man’s plight and current condition, share the person and work of Jesus Christ, after these truths there are two options; to be a recipient or a rejecter. Some individuals in Thessalonica had definitely received the good news found in Jesus Christ. The evidence of this reception is threefold in 1 Thess 1:3. First Paul mentions their work of faith, then their labor of love, and lastly their steadfastness of hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. These characteristics are evidences of the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember also of all the gifts the three that remain are faith, hope, and love (1 Cor 13:13). When this group of individuals heard the gospel message it came not in words only, but with power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. (Father, I pray that when I and my brothers and sisters in the faith share, proclaim, describe, or tell the gospel message that it will be with power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full conviction.) They responded and their response was to imitate those who brought the message and of the Lord. They responded and became imitators of the church in Judea. They responded joyful because of the power of the Holy Spirit in the face of much tribulation and suffering just as the churches in Judea. They responded to serve the living God and rejected their dead idols. There response was so noticeable and their work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness in hope was so exemplary that a testimony and witness went out in their region and beyond. When there is a gospel response there is thankfulness and the word of God performs its transforming work in those who have believed or responded. (1 Th 2:13) 13 For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe. Prayer: Almighty, Holy, Gracious, and Glorious Father, thank you for the gospel. I praise you Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Give me the boldness to proclaim the gospel amidst opposition. All the earth is yours and there is nothing greater than you in the entire world. Father I pray that the power of the Holy Spirit would fall upon me and those who share the gospel message. God, I plead that the Holy Spirit might again blow upon the American churches so a testimony will go out into all the world to every nation, tribe, and tongue. Father, so much of what the American church has become should not be imitated. Visit us again mighty Spirit and may the word of God produces it’s transforming work that our churches would be something to be imitated and people again would come to you with fear and trembling as they hear the gospel message with power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full conviction. Oh, Lord we need you desperately, for Your Kingdom and Your glory on earth as it is in heaven, for the cause of Jesus Christ, in His name I pray. Amen. Set your Mind http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211726http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211726 Thu, 27 May 2010 14:00:00 GMT 5/27/10 Colossians 2-3 Set your Mind (Col 3:2)2Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. Most scholars agree that the book of Colossians was written to combat heresy which was evident in and around the church at Colossae. The exact heresy is not known, but from the truths which Paul presents to the Colossae church we can have a good idea that it was probably the early forms of Gnosticism. Gnosticism is a philosophy which claims to have superior or hidden knowledge. There superior knowledge was based on a heresy which claimed everything material is bad or evil and everything spiritual in nature is good or divine. Naturally, with this kind of teaching there were two thoughts that were developed which were in opposite directions from each other. The first thought was since all material things are bad then I must deny myself of all the material things that I can. The hope is that if I do this then I will break the power of evil that is part of everything material. This belief produced legalism. (Col 2:21-22)21“Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!” 22(which all refer to things destined to perish with use)—in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? The second thought was since all material things are bad then it does not matter how I live. Thus I can live however I want and there is no such thing as morality and I cannot be held accountable for my actions. This belief produced loose living. (Col 3:5)5Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. Paul offers another option which is the true knowledge and is centered on the living Christ. In chapter 2 Paul stress the point that Christ was the fullness of deity in bodily form (Col 2:9) and therefore destroying the Gnostic’s basic philosophy that everything material is bad and everything spiritual is good. Paul stresses the point that God had also raised his body from the dead (Col 2:12) and in fact is presently seated, a physical description, at the right hand of God. With this knowledge the Colossae church and we are not to be taken captive through philosophy and empty deception, but are to seek Christ who is above. We are to set our mind on the things above where the living Christ is. The thrust of the Greek means that we are to “keep on setting our mind” upon the heavenly realm where Christ rules and reigns. This means that to “set your mind” is a continual ongoing effort. There must be a constant and disciplined effort to evaluate attitudes, dreams, desires, plans, life choices, and actions as it relates to the reigning King and His kingdom. As we consistently readjusted our minds and reorder our priorities to the things above we resist the lure of legalistic and loose living. Prayer: Almighty, Most Holy, Excellent, Loving Father I praise you. You have prepared all things and you deserve all worship. I seek your kingdom today. I ask that my mind will be set upon the things above and not the thing that are on the earth. Give me an eternal focus, in submission to your rightful rule, while I live on the earth to produce fruit for your honor and your glory. I thank you Jesus for paying my debt and nailing to the cross that I may put on your love. I pray that your peace will rule in my heart and that your word will richly dwell in my mind. Set my mind in upon You so whatever I do in word or deed, will be done in your great name to which I give thanks through You to the Father. Amen. 5/27/10 Colossians 2-3 Set your Mind (Col 3:2) 2 Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. Most scholars agree that the book of Colossians was written to combat heresy which was evident in and around the church at Colossae. The exact heresy is not known, but from the truths which Paul presents to the Colossae church we can have a good idea that it was probably the early forms of Gnosticism. Gnosticism is a philosophy which claims to have superior or hidden knowledge. There superior knowledge was based on a heresy which claimed everything material is bad or evil and everything spiritual in nature is good or divine. Naturally, with this kind of teaching there were two thoughts that were developed which were in opposite directions from each other. The first thought was since all material things are bad then I must deny myself of all the material things that I can. The hope is that if I do this then I will break the power of evil that is part of everything material. This belief produced legalism. (Col 2:21-22) 21 “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!” 22 (which all refer to things destined to perish with use)—in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? The second thought was since all material things are bad then it does not matter how I live. Thus I can live however I want and there is no such thing as morality and I cannot be held accountable for my actions. This belief produced loose living. (Col 3:5) 5 Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. Paul offers another option which is the true knowledge and is centered on the living Christ. In chapter 2 Paul stress the point that Christ was the fullness of deity in bodily form (Col 2:9) and therefore destroying the Gnostic’s basic philosophy that everything material is bad and everything spiritual is good. Paul stresses the point that God had also raised his body from the dead (Col 2:12) and in fact is presently seated, a physical description, at the right hand of God. With this knowledge the Colossae church and we are not to be taken captive through philosophy and empty deception, but are to seek Christ who is above. We are to set our mind on the things above where the living Christ is. The thrust of the Greek means that we are to “keep on setting our mind” upon the heavenly realm where Christ rules and reigns. This means that to “set your mind” is a continual ongoing effort. There must be a constant and disciplined effort to evaluate attitudes, dreams, desires, plans, life choices, and actions as it relates to the reigning King and His kingdom. As we consistently readjusted our minds and reorder our priorities to the things above we resist the lure of legalistic and loose living. Prayer: Almighty, Most Holy, Excellent, Loving Father I praise you. You have prepared all things and you deserve all worship. I seek your kingdom today. I ask that my mind will be set upon the things above and not the thing that are on the earth. Give me an eternal focus, in submission to your rightful rule, while I live on the earth to produce fruit for your honor and your glory. I thank you Jesus for paying my debt and nailing to the cross that I may put on your love. I pray that your peace will rule in my heart and that your word will richly dwell in my mind. Set my mind in upon You so whatever I do in word or deed, will be done in your great name to which I... Thinking Like Christ http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211600http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211600 Wed, 26 May 2010 11:00:00 GMT 5/26/10 Philippians 4 & Colossians 1 Thinking Like Christ (Php 4:8)8Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Paul tells the Phillipian church that they are to have the mind of Christ. (Read yesterday’s blog) In chapter 4 Paul specifically names some women who are encouraged to live in harmony. He specifically asks others to help procure this harmony or unity among them. These women shared with Paul in the cause of the gospel. In order to have this harmony there will need to be the attitude which was present in Christ from chapter 2; humility and obedience. Paul then encourages the church to rejoice. They have much to rejoice in because of the person and work of Jesus Christ. Upon receiving the gift of salvation in Jesus Christ everything else that was prized and cherished in life is now rubbish because a relationship with the Jesus is far superior (Phil 3:8). They can rejoice in their current citizenship being in heaven and are awaiting their Savior’s return at which time he will transform their bodies in to conformity with the body of His glory. (Phil 4:20-21). They have much to rejoice in and again I say rejoice (Phil 4:4). Along with this working toward harmony and rejoicing, Paul instructs them to have a gentle spirit. This is to be toward not just one another, but toward all men. Have you been displaying a gentle spirit toward all men? They are not only to display a gentle spirit, but they are not to be anxious and handle everything by prayer. Then Paul mentions how the peace of God will guard their hearts and minds and he mentions how this is to be done in a practical way. In essence how do you think like Christ? Well, here is a good starting place. Think on things that are true. Think on things that are honorable. Think on things that are right. Think on things that are pure. Think on things that are lovely. Think on things that are of good repute. Think on things Christ considers excellent. Think on things that Christ considers praise worthy. This is how we can think like Christ. Too much of our thinking or should I say not thinking (amusement) is done upon just the opposite of these things. Consider your metal diet in your media choices. Much of the media we consume is focused on lies, such as models, physical beauty, cheating; on dishonor such as disrespecting parents; on things that are bad, like murder, theft, immorality; on impure things such sensuality, pornography; on things unlovely such as divorce, hate, murder, unjust criticism; on things of bad repute like cursing, vile words, slander, gossip; on things not excellent or praise worthy there are a host of things. The odd thing is what our culture and society deems excellent or praise worthy is in so many ways what we are not to think on. Do you think there is a spiritual battle going on for the mind? The power of media has the ability to conform our minds away from the very things that we ought to be thinking upon. But the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Heb 4:12). Prayer: Father help me to think on the things listed about. Give me the discipline to think and to think deeply on the things that Christ would think. Cleanse my mind from the graffiti that is upon my mind now. I ask that the Holy Spirit would prime and freshly paint on the walls of my mind things that are excellent and praise worthy. Give me discernment in a day when confusion between good and bad, right and wrong abounds. Fill my mind with your wonderful words, the words of life so when I speak in conversation your words will overflow from the abundance that is in my mind. I want to think like Jesus, but I cannot do it on my own and ask for you to motivate me, in Jesus name. Amen. 5/26/10 Philippians 4 & Colossians 1 Thinking Like Christ (Php 4:8) 8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Paul tells the Phillipian church that they are to have the mind of Christ. (Read yesterday’s blog) In chapter 4 Paul specifically names some women who are encouraged to live in harmony. He specifically asks others to help procure this harmony or unity among them. These women shared with Paul in the cause of the gospel. In order to have this harmony there will need to be the attitude which was present in Christ from chapter 2; humility and obedience. Paul then encourages the church to rejoice. They have much to rejoice in because of the person and work of Jesus Christ. Upon receiving the gift of salvation in Jesus Christ everything else that was prized and cherished in life is now rubbish because a relationship with the Jesus is far superior (Phil 3:8). They can rejoice in their current citizenship being in heaven and are awaiting their Savior’s return at which time he will transform their bodies in to conformity with the body of His glory. (Phil 4:20-21). They have much to rejoice in and again I say rejoice (Phil 4:4). Along with this working toward harmony and rejoicing, Paul instructs them to have a gentle spirit. This is to be toward not just one another, but toward all men. Have you been displaying a gentle spirit toward all men? They are not only to display a gentle spirit, but they are not to be anxious and handle everything by prayer. Then Paul mentions how the peace of God will guard their hearts and minds and he mentions how this is to be done in a practical way. In essence how do you think like Christ? Well, here is a good starting place. Think on things that are true. Think on things that are honorable. Think on things that are right. Think on things that are pure. Think on things that are lovely. Think on things that are of good repute. Think on things Christ considers excellent. Think on things that Christ considers praise worthy. This is how we can think like Christ. Too much of our thinking or should I say not thinking (amusement) is done upon just the opposite of these things. Consider your metal diet in your media choices. Much of the media we consume is focused on lies, such as models, physical beauty, cheating; on dishonor such as disrespecting parents; on things that are bad, like murder, theft, immorality; on impure things such sensuality, pornography; on things unlovely such as divorce, hate, murder, unjust criticism; on things of bad repute like cursing, vile words, slander, gossip; on things not excellent or praise worthy there are a host of things. The odd thing is what our culture and society deems excellent or praise worthy is in so many ways what we are not to think on. Do you think there is a spiritual battle going on for the mind? The power of media has the ability to conform our minds away from the very things that we ought to be thinking upon. But the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Heb 4:12). Prayer: Father help me to think on the things listed about. Give me the discipline to think and to think deeply on the things that Christ... The Mind of Christ http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211509http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211509 Tue, 25 May 2010 12:00:00 GMT 5/25/10 Philippians 2-3 The Mind of Christ (Php 2:5)5Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, Tomorrow we will begin our 12 week study “The Mind of Christ” which comes from Philippians 2:5. The Greek word can be translated mind, attitude, think, regard, and some additional words and therefore you see differences in translations. The thrust of this passage is to have an attitude of humility which results in unity. Christ is our example in the area of humility. Many scholars believe that verses 6-11 were used in the early church as a hymn or creed concerning Christ’s incarnation, humiliation, and obedience. As the church develops the mind of Christ our joy will be made complete, being united by the same mind and carrying out deeds in the same love, and having the same purpose. Rather than being focused on our selfish interests we must seek the benefit of one another. This is the hard part of working out our salvation. It is easy for us to come with our minds, set on what we desire and what we want, but when we consider the mind of Christ he first desired what the Father wanted and willingly gave up what he was in possession of namely his glory. God will help you both to will and to work at having the mind of Christ. Having the mind of Christ will result in doing things without grumbling or disputing, because we recognize that God is at work in us. The more our minds become like Christ the greater unity and love we will have toward one another resulting in genuine joy. The more our minds become like Christ the more we will appear as lights in a world that is crooked and perverse. There is so much more to understand about the mind of Christ and that is why we will be doing this twelve week study. This study will prove beneficial for those who choose to participate. Sure this study requires some extra work and effort on the part of the participant. But this is part of working out your salvation. We live in a time when we see work as physical labor, but work also includes the active engagement of the mind in the areas of reading, study, memorization, and meditation. Perhaps you do not think that those things are work, just look around at how much of our culture is based on amusement which means “not thinking.” Prayer: Father thank you for the your working in the hearts and lives of your children both to will and to work for your good pleasure. I pray that I will work hard at developing and then displaying the mind of Christ in every area of my life. I confess of my selfishness and lack of love for others. Give me the mind of Christ. Grant me His humility, grant me His obedience, grant me His sacrificial love, and grant me His joy. Search my mind over these next twelve weeks and destroy all that is contrary to your will and you ways. Plant with in my mind those things that will grow and produce fruit in my mind and overflow in my words and deeds for your honor and glory, in Jesus name. Amen. 5/25/10 Philippians 2-3 The Mind of Christ (Php 2:5) 5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, Tomorrow we will begin our 12 week study “The Mind of Christ” which comes from Philippians 2:5. The Greek word can be translated mind, attitude, think, regard, and some additional words and therefore you see differences in translations. The thrust of this passage is to have an attitude of humility which results in unity. Christ is our example in the area of humility. Many scholars believe that verses 6-11 were used in the early church as a hymn or creed concerning Christ’s incarnation, humiliation, and obedience. As the church develops the mind of Christ our joy will be made complete, being united by the same mind and carrying out deeds in the same love, and having the same purpose. Rather than being focused on our selfish interests we must seek the benefit of one another. This is the hard part of working out our salvation. It is easy for us to come with our minds, set on what we desire and what we want, but when we consider the mind of Christ he first desired what the Father wanted and willingly gave up what he was in possession of namely his glory. God will help you both to will and to work at having the mind of Christ. Having the mind of Christ will result in doing things without grumbling or disputing, because we recognize that God is at work in us. The more our minds become like Christ the greater unity and love we will have toward one another resulting in genuine joy. The more our minds become like Christ the more we will appear as lights in a world that is crooked and perverse. There is so much more to understand about the mind of Christ and that is why we will be doing this twelve week study. This study will prove beneficial for those who choose to participate. Sure this study requires some extra work and effort on the part of the participant. But this is part of working out your salvation. We live in a time when we see work as physical labor, but work also includes the active engagement of the mind in the areas of reading, study, memorization, and meditation. Perhaps you do not think that those things are work, just look around at how much of our culture is based on amusement which means “not thinking.” Prayer: Father thank you for the your working in the hearts and lives of your children both to will and to work for your good pleasure. I pray that I will work hard at developing and then displaying the mind of Christ in every area of my life. I confess of my selfishness and lack of love for others. Give me the mind of Christ. Grant me His humility, grant me His obedience, grant me His sacrificial love, and grant me His joy. Search my mind over these next twelve weeks and destroy all that is contrary to your will and you ways. Plant with in my mind those things that will grow and produce fruit in my mind and overflow in my words and deeds for your honor and glory, in Jesus name. Amen. One Step Backward Three Forward http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211489http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211489 Mon, 24 May 2010 21:00:00 GMT 5/24/10 Philippians 1 One Step Backward Three Forward Philippians is a letter to the Philippian church from Paul who is imprisoned at Rome. Paul and Silas founded the church on Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 16). The Phillipian church heard about Paul’s imprisonment in Rome and sent him some funds and support through a man named Epaphroditus. While in Rome Epaphroditus nearly dies and Paul then sends him back to the Philippian church with this letter. This letter is meant to encourage them in what they see as discouragement. The Phillipian church no doubt understood, believed, shared, and financed the gospel. In verse 5 Paul refers to their participation in the gospel from the first day until now. Paul lets them know of his joy and love for them as they have stood with him in the defense and confirmation of the gospel in verse 7. He wants to assure them what they see as a hindrance to the gospel, his imprisonment, has actually turned out to propel the gospel further. So instead of the common phrase “three steps backward and one step forward” Paul assures them that just the opposite has happened. That is so like our God to reverse the ordinary and create the extraordinary. He says that his imprisonment has brought greater attention to the cause of Christ which is giving him further opportunity for the defense of the gospel. There are some that have joined him out of love to speak boldly the word of God and there are others who have done it for selfish ambition seek to discredit Paul. As Paul sees the whole situation there is a great deal to rejoice in because Christ and His gospel are being proclaimed. He goes on to encourage the Philippian church to live in a manner that is consistent with the gospel of Christ. They are to be of one spirit and one mind as they strive together for the faith of the gospel. The church is the one entity that is responsible to know, live, share, and finance the gospel. In God’s grand design there is no reason to lose our joy based on your circumstances, because He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Let each of use unite with one spirit and one mind around the gospel of Christ asking God to bring about the obedience of faith among all people. Prayer: Father I pray that I will see your divine hand at work in our attempts as a church to participate in the gospel and defend the gospel for your name. Give our church the strength to walk in a manner that is worthy of the gospel. Increase our unity of spirit and mind as we strive together for the faith of the gospel. I pray that people in the vicinity of this church will hear the gospel message accurately and they will not make their own assumptions or conclusions about what the gospel is from a lack of teaching or as a result of poor teaching or from disobedient living of those who claim your name. My prayer is that you will bring all people into the obedience of faith of the gospel of Jesus Christ, in his name I pray. Amen. 5/24/10 Philippians 1 One Step Backward Three Forward Philippians is a letter to the Philippian church from Paul who is imprisoned at Rome. Paul and Silas founded the church on Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 16). The Phillipian church heard about Paul’s imprisonment in Rome and sent him some funds and support through a man named Epaphroditus. While in Rome Epaphroditus nearly dies and Paul then sends him back to the Philippian church with this letter. This letter is meant to encourage them in what they see as discouragement. The Phillipian church no doubt understood, believed, shared, and financed the gospel. In verse 5 Paul refers to their participation in the gospel from the first day until now. Paul lets them know of his joy and love for them as they have stood with him in the defense and confirmation of the gospel in verse 7. He wants to assure them what they see as a hindrance to the gospel, his imprisonment, has actually turned out to propel the gospel further. So instead of the common phrase “three steps backward and one step forward” Paul assures them that just the opposite has happened. That is so like our God to reverse the ordinary and create the extraordinary. He says that his imprisonment has brought greater attention to the cause of Christ which is giving him further opportunity for the defense of the gospel. There are some that have joined him out of love to speak boldly the word of God and there are others who have done it for selfish ambition seek to discredit Paul. As Paul sees the whole situation there is a great deal to rejoice in because Christ and His gospel are being proclaimed. He goes on to encourage the Philippian church to live in a manner that is consistent with the gospel of Christ. They are to be of one spirit and one mind as they strive together for the faith of the gospel. The church is the one entity that is responsible to know, live, share, and finance the gospel. In God’s grand design there is no reason to lose our joy based on your circumstances, because He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Let each of use unite with one spirit and one mind around the gospel of Christ asking God to bring about the obedience of faith among all people. Prayer: Father I pray that I will see your divine hand at work in our attempts as a church to participate in the gospel and defend the gospel for your name. Give our church the strength to walk in a manner that is worthy of the gospel. Increase our unity of spirit and mind as we strive together for the faith of the gospel. I pray that people in the vicinity of this church will hear the gospel message accurately and they will not make their own assumptions or conclusions about what the gospel is from a lack of teaching or as a result of poor teaching or from disobedient living of those who claim your name. My prayer is that you will bring all people into the obedience of faith of the gospel of Jesus Christ, in his name I pray. Amen. Imitate God http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211488http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211488 Mon, 24 May 2010 21:00:00 GMT 5/23/10 Ephesians 5 and 6 Imitate God (Eph 5:1) 1Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; The church which is intended to be group of individuals who have repented and declared their submission and loyalty to Jesus Christ and are viewed in scripture as children at times. We all know children are very good at imitating others. Children watch adults and older kids closely and then begin to do as they have seen. The same ought to be true for those who have made Jesus Lord of their life. Jesus in the book of Hebrews is not ashamed to call us his brothers (Heb 2:11). So how do we imitate our big brother and thus God? First we must recognize that Jesus Christ was the exact representation of God incarnate or manifested in human form (Heb 1:3). In Ephesians 5:3-5 Paul writes that we are to avoid immorality and impurity. Those how have repented and acknowledge Jesus as Lord have been transferred from darkness to light and therefore are able to live in the fruit of the Light which is all goodness, righteousness, and truth. We are not to participate with unfruitful deeds of darkness, but to expose them as the light exposes the reality of what lies in the darkness. Paul in verse 14 references what is believed to be a hymn drawn from Isaiah 29:19 and 60:1-2, the very text we began with in this week’s message. The mention of this is to conclude the thought of leaving the darkness and embracing the Light, which is Jesus Christ. We cannot imitate God if we do not correctly investigate study, learn, interact, and abide with the living Christ. Never forget that Christ is alive and is at the right hand of God (Heb 1:3). We come to know Christ through what is revealed to us in the scriptures. Paul then concludes how we are to imitate God in the real world with our day to day relationships. Paul addresses three sets of relationships to give us some practical advice as how to imitate God and live as children of the Light, and siblings of Jesus. To transition to this section he lays down a foundational principle that is required in any relationship “submitting to one another in the fear of Christ” verse 21. He then goes on to describe what the marital relationships are to look like as each spouse imitates God. Then bridging into chapter 6 how the family is to interact with each other specifically parents and children. Lastly, Paul mentions what was common in that culture as household slaves and how the slave master relationship was to be carried out. Today we could parallel this with a employer and employee relationship. If we are going to imitate God we must seek to live as Christ has shown us by being and doing exactly as the Father had instructed him. When you read through the gospels again, notice how Christ handles his relationships. Although he did not have a wife, the church is considered the bride of Christ and the scriptures tells us how he loved the church and gave himself up for her (Eph 5:2). He certainly had parents and in the few places where it mentions Joseph and Mary we can learn about Jesus response. More importantly he was a Son and He had a Father whom he honored and listened to perfectly. Finally, Jesus did not have a slave, but was sold for the price of a slave and became obedient to the point of death. Yet in all this He is actually the Master to whom all things have been given (John 13:3, Col 1:16, Heb 1:2). Prayer: Father I desire to imitate you. Everything about you is perfect, pure, good, right, justice, beautiful and magnificent. Today, may my actions words and thought reflect to a watching world who you are. My Lord and Savior Jesus led me by the Spirit who lead you and guided you. I want to love like you, I want to sacrifice like you, and I want my relationship to reflect the fruit of the Light which is goodness, righteousness, and truth. Father I know that there is much in me that needs to be transformed to image you. Begin with my mind, saturate my mind with right thoughts and attitudes. As I search the scriptures I ask that I will see and understand you more fully. Give me grace to see you as you really are. When I learn about your character and see in myself a deficiency give me grace to imitate you. Lord, I pray that our church would imitate you. Make this local church one that imitates you and in so doing it will honor, glorify, and praise your greatness, in your perfects Son’s name. Amen. 5/23/10 Ephesians 5 and 6 Imitate God (Eph 5:1) 1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; The church which is intended to be group of individuals who have repented and declared their submission and loyalty to Jesus Christ and are viewed in scripture as children at times. We all know children are very good at imitating others. Children watch adults and older kids closely and then begin to do as they have seen. The same ought to be true for those who have made Jesus Lord of their life. Jesus in the book of Hebrews is not ashamed to call us his brothers (Heb 2:11). So how do we imitate our big brother and thus God? First we must recognize that Jesus Christ was the exact representation of God incarnate or manifested in human form (Heb 1:3). In Ephesians 5:3-5 Paul writes that we are to avoid immorality and impurity. Those how have repented and acknowledge Jesus as Lord have been transferred from darkness to light and therefore are able to live in the fruit of the Light which is all goodness, righteousness, and truth. We are not to participate with unfruitful deeds of darkness, but to expose them as the light exposes the reality of what lies in the darkness. Paul in verse 14 references what is believed to be a hymn drawn from Isaiah 29:19 and 60:1-2, the very text we began with in this week’s message. The mention of this is to conclude the thought of leaving the darkness and embracing the Light, which is Jesus Christ. We cannot imitate God if we do not correctly investigate study, learn, interact, and abide with the living Christ. Never forget that Christ is alive and is at the right hand of God (Heb 1:3). We come to know Christ through what is revealed to us in the scriptures. Paul then concludes how we are to imitate God in the real world with our day to day relationships. Paul addresses three sets of relationships to give us some practical advice as how to imitate God and live as children of the Light, and siblings of Jesus. To transition to this section he lays down a foundational principle that is required in any relationship “submitting to one another in the fear of Christ” verse 21. He then goes on to describe what the marital relationships are to look like as each spouse imitates God. Then bridging into chapter 6 how the family is to interact with each other specifically parents and children. Lastly, Paul mentions what was common in that culture as household slaves and how the slave master relationship was to be carried out. Today we could parallel this with a employer and employee relationship. If we are going to imitate God we must seek to live as Christ has shown us by being and doing exactly as the Father had instructed him. When you read through the gospels again, notice how Christ handles his relationships. Although he did not have a wife, the church is considered the bride of Christ and the scriptures tells us how he loved the church and gave himself up for her (Eph 5:2). He certainly had parents and in the few places where it mentions Joseph and Mary we can learn about Jesus response. More importantly he was a Son and He had a Father whom he honored and listened to perfectly. Finally, Jesus did not have a slave, but was sold for the price of a slave and became obedient to the point of death. Yet in all this He is actually the Master to whom all things have been given (John 13:3, Col 1:16, Heb 1:2). Prayer: Father I desire to imitate you. Everything about you is perfect, pure, good, right, justice, beautiful and... Our Mission http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211487http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211487 Mon, 24 May 2010 21:00:00 GMT 5/22/10 Ephesians 4 Our Mission (Eph 4:12)12for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; We have stated that our mission at Birchwood Baptist Church is “equipping individuals to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ.” Here in early verses of chapter 4 Paul is stressing to the Ephesian church what attitudes are necessary to have unity and peace. Some of the attitudes that he lists here are humility, gentleness, patience, love, and perseverance. In verse 7 Paul mentions that each one of us has received grace with a certain amount of Christ’s gift. Verse 8 is a quote from Psalm 68:18 where Paul makes a connection in this letter that Jesus is the victor over sin and death thus he has the power to bestow gifts. Verse 11 mentions a number of different leaders within the church as gifts he has given to his church. These leaders are then to faithfully carryout their duties so the church will as verse 12 states, be equipped for service and the building up the body. This is equipping and building up of the body is to take place from now until all come in unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. This passages stresses that each individual who is called by Christ has been given grace and has receive a gift for the benefit of the entire unity of the body. We understand disciples to be individuals who have repented from their sins and embraced Jesus Christ as Lord. Disciples constantly study, learn, and apply what they know from the life of Jesus and desire to become mature to the fullness of Christ. This mission cannot be accomplished by one individual, but it takes each one walking in a direction and in a manner to please Christ. We cannot be effective apart from one another and certainly apart from Christ. Our great desire is that we join arms together as we each pursue what it means to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ. When we each have an attitude of humility, gentleness, patience, love, and perseverance toward and with one another we will experience the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Prayer: Father it is my sincere plea that you would help each of us to understand and accomplish our mission so you will be glorified. Teach us your will and your ways, may we desire to become true, faithful, and effective disciples of Christ. In this journey may we learn about each other and ourselves for our own benefit. You have fashioned and gifted us as the body of Christ and we ask that each of us will serve you and one another effectively so that the entire body may grow and be built up in love, in the name of Jesus. Amen. 5/22/10 Ephesians 4 Our Mission (Eph 4:12) 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; We have stated that our mission at Birchwood Baptist Church is “equipping individuals to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ.” Here in early verses of chapter 4 Paul is stressing to the Ephesian church what attitudes are necessary to have unity and peace. Some of the attitudes that he lists here are humility, gentleness, patience, love, and perseverance. In verse 7 Paul mentions that each one of us has received grace with a certain amount of Christ’s gift. Verse 8 is a quote from Psalm 68:18 where Paul makes a connection in this letter that Jesus is the victor over sin and death thus he has the power to bestow gifts. Verse 11 mentions a number of different leaders within the church as gifts he has given to his church. These leaders are then to faithfully carryout their duties so the church will as verse 12 states, be equipped for service and the building up the body. This is equipping and building up of the body is to take place from now until all come in unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. This passages stresses that each individual who is called by Christ has been given grace and has receive a gift for the benefit of the entire unity of the body. We understand disciples to be individuals who have repented from their sins and embraced Jesus Christ as Lord. Disciples constantly study, learn, and apply what they know from the life of Jesus and desire to become mature to the fullness of Christ. This mission cannot be accomplished by one individual, but it takes each one walking in a direction and in a manner to please Christ. We cannot be effective apart from one another and certainly apart from Christ. Our great desire is that we join arms together as we each pursue what it means to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ. When we each have an attitude of humility, gentleness, patience, love, and perseverance toward and with one another we will experience the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Prayer: Father it is my sincere plea that you would help each of us to understand and accomplish our mission so you will be glorified. Teach us your will and your ways, may we desire to become true, faithful, and effective disciples of Christ. In this journey may we learn about each other and ourselves for our own benefit. You have fashioned and gifted us as the body of Christ and we ask that each of us will serve you and one another effectively so that the entire body may grow and be built up in love, in the name of Jesus. Amen. Our Purpose http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211293http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211293 Sat, 22 May 2010 05:00:00 GMT 5/21/10 Ephesians 2-3 Our Purpose (Eph 3:10)10so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places. We have stated that our purpose at Birchwood Baptist Church is “that our lives display the wisdom of God to the universe for His Glory.” Oh, if we could be a church that would fulfill that purpose. Obviously, this statement comes from Ephesians 3:10. Let’s take a few moments to ponder some of what is meant in this verse. Undoubtedly, you have heard someone say “Don’t look at the church. Look at Christ!” Well, when this is said there is a great indictment placed upon the church. If this is true of a particular local church, denomination, or regional area of the church, say, the American church, then that church or those churches are in danger at the most fundamental level. What Paul describes in Ephesians 3:8-11 and God purposed is that the church is to be the very instrument where the outsider and unbeliever sees the living Christ, who is the exact representation of the Father. The church of Jesus Christ more than any other group should be a place of unity among all generations, all races, and all classes. Paul shares that he has the opportunity and stewardship to share the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God. What is this mystery? The mystery is that God desires to reconcile all people to himself through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Members of the church are to be the very ones who have experienced, understand, and desire reconciliation for others and toward one another. There is nothing more debilitating and repulsive for outsiders and unbelievers than for a church to have fractions, strife, and division. They can get that with anywhere. For that matter there are many insiders that are made sick and nauseous and therefore say things like “Don’t look at the church. Look at Christ!” Sadly, there are many other groups and organizations that do a better job than the church does at displaying purpose and unity. That is the point entirely. The purpose of the church, that means each and every member, is to display increasingly so the character of God. We are not just to attend church services, read our bibles, pray, avoid the “big” sins. No! We are to display individually and corporately the character of God. When this takes place then the manifold or variegated wisdom of God is made known and visible to the entire universe. All the rulers and authorities are mesmerized by the staggering wisdom of God where He redeems and reconciles fallen humanity, who could not get any farther from reflecting Him, to be transformed and filled with the fullness of God. The end result is that God is glorified in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. (Eph 3:21) Prayer: Father you are worthy of all glory and praise. There should be nothing in heaven and earth which does not testify to your glory, greatness, power, and wisdom. How unworthy am I to enjoy your presence? Father I pray that you will begin with me to display your character to a watching world. You have already transformed so much of what I was, but oh, how I realized the great transformation that is still needed. I seek and ask for your grace that I will be further rooted and grounded in your great and amazing love. I pray for your church to experience you afresh and that our lives will display your wisdom to the universe for your glory forever and ever and ever. Amen. 5/21/10 Ephesians 2-3 Our Purpose (Eph 3:10) 10 so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places. We have stated that our purpose at Birchwood Baptist Church is “that our lives display the wisdom of God to the universe for His Glory.” Oh, if we could be a church that would fulfill that purpose. Obviously, this statement comes from Ephesians 3:10. Let’s take a few moments to ponder some of what is meant in this verse. Undoubtedly, you have heard someone say “Don’t look at the church. Look at Christ!” Well, when this is said there is a great indictment placed upon the church. If this is true of a particular local church, denomination, or regional area of the church, say, the American church, then that church or those churches are in danger at the most fundamental level. What Paul describes in Ephesians 3:8-11 and God purposed is that the church is to be the very instrument where the outsider and unbeliever sees the living Christ, who is the exact representation of the Father. The church of Jesus Christ more than any other group should be a place of unity among all generations, all races, and all classes. Paul shares that he has the opportunity and stewardship to share the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God. What is this mystery? The mystery is that God desires to reconcile all people to himself through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Members of the church are to be the very ones who have experienced, understand, and desire reconciliation for others and toward one another. There is nothing more debilitating and repulsive for outsiders and unbelievers than for a church to have fractions, strife, and division. They can get that with anywhere. For that matter there are many insiders that are made sick and nauseous and therefore say things like “Don’t look at the church. Look at Christ!” Sadly, there are many other groups and organizations that do a better job than the church does at displaying purpose and unity. That is the point entirely. The purpose of the church, that means each and every member, is to display increasingly so the character of God. We are not just to attend church services, read our bibles, pray, avoid the “big” sins. No! We are to display individually and corporately the character of God. When this takes place then the manifold or variegated wisdom of God is made known and visible to the entire universe. All the rulers and authorities are mesmerized by the staggering wisdom of God where He redeems and reconciles fallen humanity, who could not get any farther from reflecting Him, to be transformed and filled with the fullness of God. The end result is that God is glorified in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. (Eph 3:21) Prayer: Father you are worthy of all glory and praise. There should be nothing in heaven and earth which does not testify to your glory, greatness, power, and wisdom. How unworthy am I to enjoy your presence? Father I pray that you will begin with me to display your character to a watching world. You have already transformed so much of what I was, but oh, how I realized the great transformation that is still needed. I seek and ask for your grace that I will be further rooted and grounded in your great and amazing love. I pray for your church to experience you afresh and that our lives will display your wisdom to the universe for your glory forever and ever and ever.... Reach Out http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211287http://www.birchwoodbaptist.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10116&entry_id=211287 Sat, 22 May 2010 03:00:00 GMT 5/20/10 Galatians 6 & Ephesians 1 Reach Out In Galatians 6 Paul gives the churches of Galatian some exhortation and final reminders. In the first five verses we find that Paul is stressing to them to reach out to one another. In the end of chapter five Paul gives a lofty or ideal view of what it means to live the Christian life by the Spirit so here in the beginning of chapter 6 Paul reminds everyone of the very present reality of sin which is not a respecter of persons. Paul calls on those who are “spiritual” or mature in their faith to come alongside anyone who may have been “caught in any trespass.” This phrase is not suggesting that the spiritual are to go out seeking to nab the less spiritual in sin, rather “caught” has the idea of becoming entangled or trapped by some sin. So what is the advice to the spiritual? They are to reach out to this person with compassion (Gal 5:14) and then guard themselves from comparison that can result in boasting. As we reach out bearing one another’s burdens then we fulfill the law of Christ. The law of Christ is loving our neighbor as our self (Gal 5:14). We are also to bear our own load (Gal 6:5). We are to recognize that our heart can be tempted to be proud, arrogant, and boastful in comparing ourselves to our sinning brother. If we allow this to happen then we do not love, do not fulfill the law of Christ, and are spiritually immature. We become like the Pharisee who compared himself with the tax collector in Luke 18:10-14. (Lk 18:10-14)10“Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11“The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12‘I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.’ 13“But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner!’ 14“I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” I have heard and seen too many that should have been the spiritually mature who have become boastful toward their brothers and sisters in the faith, not to mention those who are not in church. Today determine that you will not have an arrogant, boastful heart toward others. Prayer: Father I confess my sin of comparison and boasting toward members of the bride of Christ. What a grievous sin this is. How is it that I would think of myself to be something greater within the body of Christ. Your sovereignty has prepared and placed each member within the body of Christ perfectly. My arrogance toward your bride is arrogance toward you. There are many members, but all are members of one another. Who am I to criticize the Holy One? How deceived I am with a proud and arrogant heart such as this. Father give me a heart like yours, a heart like Jesus, who reaches out to the outcasts, sinners, the spiritually immature, and even the deceived who think themselves to be spiritually mature. Thank you for your grace and forgiveness, in Jesus name. Amen. 5/20/10 Galatians 6 & Ephesians 1 Reach Out In Galatians 6 Paul gives the churches of Galatian some exhortation and final reminders. In the first five verses we find that Paul is stressing to them to reach out to one another. In the end of chapter five Paul gives a lofty or ideal view of what it means to live the Christian life by the Spirit so here in the beginning of chapter 6 Paul reminds everyone of the very present reality of sin which is not a respecter of persons. Paul calls on those who are “spiritual” or mature in their faith to come alongside anyone who may have been “caught in any trespass.” This phrase is not suggesting that the spiritual are to go out seeking to nab the less spiritual in sin, rather “caught” has the idea of becoming entangled or trapped by some sin. So what is the advice to the spiritual? They are to reach out to this person with compassion (Gal 5:14) and then guard themselves from comparison that can result in boasting. As we reach out bearing one another’s burdens then we fulfill the law of Christ. The law of Christ is loving our neighbor as our self (Gal 5:14). We are also to bear our own load (Gal 6:5). We are to recognize that our heart can be tempted to be proud, arrogant, and boastful in comparing ourselves to our sinning brother. If we allow this to happen then we do not love, do not fulfill the law of Christ, and are spiritually immature. We become like the Pharisee who compared himself with the tax collector in Luke 18:10-14. (Lk 18:10-14) 10 “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 “The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 ‘I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.’ 13 “But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner!’ 14 “I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” I have heard and seen too many that should have been the spiritually mature who have become boastful toward their brothers and sisters in the faith, not to mention those who are not in church. Today determine that you will not have an arrogant, boastful heart toward others. Prayer: Father I confess my sin of comparison and boasting toward members of the bride of Christ. What a grievous sin this is. How is it that I would think of myself to be something greater within the body of Christ. Your sovereignty has prepared and placed each member within the body of Christ perfectly. My arrogance toward your bride is arrogance toward you. There are many members, but all are members of one another. Who am I to criticize the Holy One? How deceived I am with a proud and arrogant heart such as this. Father give me a heart like yours, a heart like Jesus, who reaches out to the outcasts, sinners, the spiritually immature, and even the deceived who think themselves to be spiritually mature. Thank you for your grace and forgiveness, in Jesus name. Amen.