Text: Hebrews Chapter 11-13
OBSERVE: After concluding the theological homily on Christ’s high priesthood in chapter 10; the author of the book of Hebrews then offers an impressive list of biblical heroes. These heroes were individuals whose lives had testified to faith as the assurance of things hoped for. The author urges the readers to endure their trials just like the heroes of the faith and reflects briefly on the positive role that suffering can play. The letter draws to a close in chapter 13 with numerous admonitions. INTERPRET: The heroes of the faith have constituted a great cloud of witnesses. In which Jesus may be added as the ultimate example of one who proved faithful in suffering and prepared the way for others to follow. These exhortations to faithfulness give way to a contrast between the covenants of Mount Sinai and Mount Zion: the readers are now receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, but those who fail to obtain the grace of God offered through this new covenant will not escape God’s judgment. The concluding admonitions to the readers include: following the examples of former leaders, avoiding strange doctrines, willingness to suffer, worshiping God with praise and good works and the encouragement to submit to current leaders. APPLICATION: Although the writer and the audience of this letter are not known for sure; the purpose of the letter is quite clear. The letter to the Hebrews proclaims the superiority of Christ as the divine Son of God; and the superiority of faith in Christ over all other confessions. This provides an encouragement to persevere to forestall apostasy. Such perseverance is justified in light of what the earthly Son has done to bring believers into God’s favor, and it is sustained through the intercessions that the exalted Son continues to offer on our behalf. The heroes of the faith can give us great confidence for the trials that we will face. All of these individuals were humans just like us and managed to persevere through faith in the one true God. Whether it was Abraham or Moses or David; we see individuals who had great flaws yet today stand as individuals who lived lives of great faith. But of course; Jesus is our ultimate example. His perfect example has brought all those who have faith in his perfect faith into favor with God. He is the divine Son of God; our one and only mediator; our one and only hope. REFLECTION: Do you find encouragement in the examples of the biblical heroes? Who can you most closely relate with? Does their need for God provide more clarity and urgency for your need for God? Is Jesus your living hope?? PRAYER: Heavenly Father; thank you for the examples we have in scripture that testify to the hope we have in the one true living hope. Give me great confidence in this hope and help me to live a life that testifies to my faith in the Son of God. In the name of Jesus I pray. AMEN. Song: Living Hope Hebrews 5-6 Observe: Beginning halfway through the last paragraph of chapter 4, Hebrews 5 details Jesus as the great high priest who is greater than any other high priest that has come before Him. Jesus is able to sympathize with our weakness yet never sinned in weakness. He did not exalt Himself to this position but went as an obedient Son at the appointment of His Father. It is Jesus who stands as the perfect mediator between God and Man, having always been the former and has lived as the latter. This is followed by a warning against apostasy, which means to abandon the faith. The author of Hebrews writes their desire that we grow into maturity and, having had our fill of elementary doctrine and spiritual milk, feast on the deeper truths of Christ as if it were solid food. They indicated that some will fall away and will not be restored once they have done so, for they act in contempt of the grace of God and crucify once again His Son. Chapter 6 ends with a celebration of the certainty of God’s promises, that He is unchanging and unchangeable, and will always be a strong refuge that will hold fast to any who come to Him, “… we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” Interpret: What is our one great hope as Christians? It is that we are in Christ and will abide in Him forever. We have Him as our Great High Priest, the one upon whom the salvation of the world depends. He is the one who daily bears us up and tends to our needs, calms our fears, and trains us in salvation. He is the one who takes the punishment for our sin, taking our filthy rags and giving us new, white robes. He has satisfied the good and proper wrath of God against our sin and in exchange given us new life on His terms. At the end of our days, we will stand before God and declared righteous because of the work of His Son. What an incredible truth we read in Hebrews! Philippians is certainly a joyful book, but make no mistake: Hebrews gets us back to the basics in a much deeper way, organizing our thoughts according to the Holy Spirit and showing us that Jesus has paid it all. He is the anchor of our soul in the worst of times, absolutely sure and unchanging, the only thing upon which we can depend. I dare say that if we read this wonderful book without our hearts being stirred, we must fall before the throne of grace once more and every day, asking Him to open up our eyes to the wonder and joy that is Jesus Christ. Application & Question: It is all too easy to skim the words of the New Testament especially and walk away thinking we have done enough study, or to think that we’ve read these words a thousand times and there is nothing more to be gained. Let me assure you that A) I have done this more times than I can count, and B) those assumptions are a bull-faced lie. Our souls yearn to be satisfied and to have their cuts and scrapes covered in the soothing balm of the peace of Christ, yet we are obstinate and train ourselves in everything besides Godliness. If the words of this Bible are bouncing off our hearts, allow me to challenge you and say that the Bible is working just fine; we are the problem. The solution, I believe, is to take time and look at ourselves in the light of scripture and conviction of the Spirit. Be honest with the state of your own heart and mind before the holy light of God and see just how corrupt we are by nature. This is one of the best ways to humble ourselves, and yes, it can hurt a lot. It is in humility that we find our hearts soft and our ears alert, for God gently tends those who humble themselves and begin to pray. If we find ourselves impassive at the love of God or the wonderful work of Jesus Christ, I dare say we have grown proud and arrogant. The fastest way out of this state of mind is to acknowledge just how much we need Him! He is always gentle, never mocking, and rejoices when a sinner repents. If you find yourself empty and at the foot of the cross, then rejoice – is it not the emptiness of the vessel that makes it useful? Prayer: Father God, the fear of you is the beginning of wisdom. Teach us to live in a state of confident humility before you, that we live our lives sure of nothing but the cross of Christ and our new life in Him. Thank you for doing away with the biggest weight on the world – for destroying the power of sin and death and raising us to new life in you. I pray that we all take your Word to heart and live in a way that makes others want to do the same Song: Because He Lives (David Crowder et al) Text Hebrews 3-4 (Ps. 26)
Observe This ‘Book of Better Things” asserts Christ’s sovereignty and superiority over everyone and everything, from angels to patriarchs. The ancients regarded Moses as greater than the angels. The writer of Hebrews, however, places this servant of God in his proper relation to Jesus, the Son of God (3:3-6). The quote from Psalm 95:7-11 warns against hardening hearts to Jesus, as the Israelites hardened theirs against God and Moses. The urgency is to seek God today, lest any of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin (12). “Therefore…” Israel took 40 rebellious, unbelieving years to enter the Promised Land. The writer warns readers to be careful, or they will meet the same end as that generation. But for faithfulness and obedience to His Law, His Word, God offers something far better -- real rest. What is this rest? Joshua led Israel into the Promised Land, a new Sabbath rest. Joshua, (Yeshua) led into that rest, but Jesus (Yeshua), greater than Joshua, is our rest (Mt. 11:27-28). We no longer work at righteousness (10). It’s Jesus’ gift; we simply believe (11) and find our rest, in Him. For the word of God is living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.(12,13) This passage cuts deeply to convict, if we’re alive to the Word. That is its purpose. Interpret Hardening our hearts -- a subtle, terrifying, deceptive process: lapsing into indifference; presuming on God’s mercy (What I do doesn’t matter; God has to forgive!); unbelief; living without Him. Sin = deceit, in the way it comes to us, its promises, what it calls itself in rationalizations before and after sin is done. The Spirit invites us to abandon that deadly equation and let God soften our hearts, today. Or, better, Now. Those tough verses in 4:12-13? The Word pierces festering hidden sin, drains lies and falsity, heals and makes right. If we submit to God’s scrutiny, we find He longs to set us free from our dodgy motives, our willed deceptions, our hiding from Him (remember Genesis 3?). These chapters don’t mince words. Divine surgery excises sin to restore His real life. Apply People who prayerfully and carefully exhort and rebuke are rare and precious. Our hard hearts resist their Spirit-discerned correction, but how we need them! Accountability is significant to fellowship -- if we are in fellowship. Loner Christians are in a precarious place. We, God’s family members, offer gentle reminders to get back into community, worship, the Word, prayer, whatever has been neglected (while so aware of our own flaws). The Spirit writes the mercy script and we, His family, act out of His sometimes-tough love. It’s God’s counter-cultural way, His Spirit of love and humility returning us to better things! “I’m trying to believe!” “I wish I could believe!” Really? Grinding effort, wishful thinking – don’t bother. Faith is God’s gift. Unbelief, disastrous to our spiritual lives, requires others to remind; prayer to focus; the desire to change; the Spirit to gently bring us back home – into the heart of Jesus. Ask Lord, do You have anyone in mind who loves You (and me) enough so when my heart hardens, this saint and You can help me humbly undergo Your surgery? Pray Test me and know my heart that I may not sin against You, Lord of my heart. Sing Heb 3:1-6 Psallos Maker of the Stories https://youtu.be/Zl8tNuPJtZU Heb 4:9 Donald Lawrence A Rest https://youtu.be/rVkAA82A-4A Heb 4:12 Brentwood Benson https://youtu.be/Ikkckwy3ruk Heb 4:15-16 Winter Haven Redeemer Throne of Grace https://youtu.be/NvKKfL-PszI Ps. 26: Ben and Noelle Kilgore https://youtu.be/iXCYEHdoRqY “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.”
Hebrews 1: 3 Hebrews 1-2 (Psalm 25) Observe
Interpret I encourage you to watch the video summary of this book, (click here). Neither the author nor the recipients of this letter are confirmed; what is clear is its aim. The letter seeks to prove Jesus Christ’s supremacy and encourages the readers to hear, understand, believe and obey. The letter confirms Christ’s identity as God’s Son, His superiority over angels and the fact that He is the only source of salvation for humankind. The emphasis on angels is probably due to the recipients being Jewish and the connection with the Law (the Torah). We are told that multitudes of angels appeared when God gave the Law to Moses (Deut. 33: 2). As Jesus fulfils the Law (Matt. 5: 17), His supremacy to angels is crucial. God’s salvation of grace is truly explained in chapter 2. Jesus became one of us and lived a perfect life giving His life in self-sacrifice to be an atonement for our sins. Christ was and always has been perfect. His suffering made perfect His sacrificial death on our behalf. He had not sinned so did not have to face death; He faced it in our place. The wonderful result is that we have a Saviour who truly understand us. He intercedes for us on our behalf before God and makes atonement for our sins. He is also the perfect image of God the Father in a way that helps us to ‘see’ and know God. There is a clear warning in this blessing; do not ignore this confirmed and substantiated salvation – it does not get any better or more clear than this! Application The Earth and the Universe shout out the truth of a Creator God. Prophets, signs and wonders have, over the millennia, confirmed this truth; there is one God. The Bible from Genesis to Revelation makes Him known to us along with His plan of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ and His resurrection prove the truth. Since then millions of lives have testified to and proved this salvation. Our own hearts confirm that there is a God. HOW CAN WE IGNORE THIS WONDER??? It is as plain as the noses on our faces with bells and whistles! There are big lessons of application in these two chapters: put your faith and trust in God through Jesus Christ, do not ignore the gift of life; secondly, in Jesus we can truly know God; thirdly God uses suffering to perfect us and help us become what we were always meant to be in His image; and finally if you have made this step of faith, do not drift away. The Greek words for ‘drift away’ imply ‘slipping away,’ such as an arrow slipping from the quiver. Departure from the faith usually comes from slow drifting, not a sudden departure. A timely word of warning in our current circumstances. The Question of Application Hebrews calls us to fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfector of our faith. What causes you to take your eyes of our Saviour and drift away; how might you refocus on our Lord? Prayer Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Hebrews 13: 20-21 Praise Turn your eyes upon Jesus by Lauren Daigle November 3oth – Les Kovacs Philemon 1
Observe: Paul’s letter to Philemon is his shortest, and the most personal of his epistles, and was written while he was a prisoner in Rome. He greets Philemon warmly as a dear friend and fellow worker in the church, as well as the other members of the church that meet in his house. He praises Philemon for the loving good works he is doing among the Lord’s people. Paul then appeals to him on the basis of love to receive back his run-away slave, Onesimus, whose name means “useful”. After running away, somehow, Onesimus had found himself in Rome and came to know Paul, who then led him to know Christ. More than that, Paul grew so fond of him, that he came to regard Onesimus as a son and would have wanted him to remain with him as a helper. But, Paul recognized that the right thing to do was to return him to Philemon. He encouraged Philemon to take him back, not as a slave, but as brother in Christ. Paul even offered to personally make recompense for any debt owed by Onesimus, although he hoped Philemon will excuse it because of his previous service to him. Optimistically, Paul ends his letter by asking Philemon to prepare a guest room for him in hopes of a possible future visit. Interpret: Even though he was in a Roman jail, Paul nonetheless had considerable freedom to have visitors and guests. Somehow, Onesimus found his way to Paul, and Paul told him about Jesus, and he became a believer. Over time, Paul became his spiritual father, teaching him and loving him as a Christian son. Onesimus learned to love Jesus and received a renewed heart. As much as Paul wanted this young man to stay with him, he knew that Onesimus should return to Philemon, his owner, and seek forgiveness for running away. This was difficult for him to do, knowing that any slave who ran away could be put to death and Paul certainly didn’t want that to happen to his “son”, Onesimus. Paul had to trust Jesus with Onesimus’ safety. Paul even makes a little word play by saying that although Philemon had considered him “useless”, Onesimus was now “useful” to them both. Since Philemon was a Christian brother and a leader of the church in Colossae, Paul trusted that Jesus had renewed his heart from being a sinner separated from God to being completely forgiven. And, since Onesimus was also now a Christian, Philemon, the slave owner, and Onesimus, the runaway slave, were Christian brothers. Notice how Paul says he was in prison and that Onesimus was his spiritual son and a fellow believer. By not ordering Philemon to forgive Onesimus, but rather appealing to his sense of compassion and love that marks the renewed Christian life, Paul made him think about these new circumstances and their changed relationships. That, in turn, allowed Philemon the opportunity to demonstrate his renewed heart in Christ in a practical and meaningful way. Application: Paul’s basic theme in Philemon is the same as it is in Galatians 3:28: “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.”. This short letter also helps us understand that the calling of the church is not only to speak out against injustice, but to actually live out the justice and peace that Jesus taught. We are to live in relationships of equality, justice, and love regardless of how the broader society says we should relate to each other. We are to share our resources with those in need, and welcome the stranger, whatever status they may hold within the culture. In his letter, Paul reminded Philemon, and us, that Christ is the renewer of hearts. Christ had renewed Paul’s heart many years earlier on the road to Damascus. Christ had renewed Philemon’s heart when he heard the gospel message and believed. And Christ had renewed Onesimus’ heart in Paul’s jail cell. A renewed heart is grateful for the forgiveness received through God’s grace and wants to be a “grace giver” to others. Questions: Think about a time when someone wronged you. How long did you stay wounded? What did it take (or would it take) to bring about reconciliation? Prayer: Father God, we thank you for the renewal of our hearts through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. May we always see your image reflected in our brothers and sisters, and offer them the forgiveness of any perceived wrongs just as you offered us forgiveness of our many wrongs and sins. In the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen. Song - No Longer Slaves - Zach Williams https://youtu.be/bDnA_coA168 OBSERVE: This letter to Titus opens with a greeting, which identifies the writer as Paul. Paul indicates that Titus is to appoint elders in the towns of Crete and lists qualifications for the office of bishop. These instructions lead into a description of the corrupt people whom the bishops will need to refute. The letter then provides a moving summary of the gospel and its consequences for human behavior. Titus is encouraged by Paul to declare these things in a manner that is both authoritative and tactful. This leads to a second summary of the gospel message, one that provides a personal testimony to the salvation that Paul and Titus share in Christ. Titus is to insist on this message and avoid anything that causes division.
INTERPRET: Titus is never mentioned in the book of Acts, but his name does appear in the letter to the Galatians and the second letter to the Corinthians. Titus was one of the first gentiles to be attracted to the Christian faith. Like Timothy, Titus became one of Paul’s emissaries, visiting churches as his representative and serving as something of a troubleshooter; dealing with difficult situations. Paul entrusted both Timothy and Titus with significant roles in shaping and leading the early church. This Letter from Paul to Titus is the third of the Pastoral letters. It presumes that Paul and Titus had been ministering together in Crete but that Paul has left, entrusting in Titus to continue the work. Paul knew that in order for the church to grow; he would need to place trusted leaders in strategic places in order to grow the common faith for the common good of everyone. APPLICATION: Titus was a gentile Christian, possibly from Antioch. Paul regarded him a traveling companion and his trusted co-worker. Titus was the man for the job in Crete to complete the task at hand; by setting a Godly standard and appointing faithful leaders. In doing so, Titus needed to be strong in leading how the church remained faithful to the gospel and wise in leading how the church connected with the world around them. The church today also needs to be strong and wise. We are to be strong in remaining faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without this unshakeable foundation; we too will be overcome by the ways of this world. However, we are also to be wise and tactful with how we approach the world around us. We are not to be fully against; nor fully alike. We are not to wage culture wars; nor are we to assimilate. We are to allow the gospel to transform our lives so that the gospel can then transform the lives and communities around us. We are to be in the world; but not of the world. The church should never be an isolated fortress or a defenseless sand castle. The church is to be a lighthouse to the nations; in both word (truth) and deed (love). PRAYER: Heavenly Father; empower and guide your church with your Spirit; so that we will not be conformed to this world. Transform us by the renewing of our minds; so that we may be wise and tactful in sharing your glorious truth to the world around us. AMEN. SONG: Lighthouse 1 Timothy 3-4.
Observe: Paul, writing to Timothy here, lays out plain-as-day instruction as to how certain leaders in the church should behave, what they should pursue, and what they ought to avoid. The third chapter touches on overseers of a church and on deacons as well. In both cases, they are to be above reproach, blameless, thought well of outsiders, not lovers of wine or greedy among other things. They must be good managers of their household as well if they are to be trusted with managing a congregation. It then concludes with what Paul calls the Mystery of Godliness: “He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.” The fourth chapter begins with a sobering reminder that some who believe would depart the faith and pursue deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, forbidding that which God has given to be received with thanksgiving and allowing that which God has said is off limits. Paul then instructs Timothy to lay these teachings out before the brothers having been “trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.” He warns to steer clear of silly myths and other distractions. While bodily training is of some value, Paul writes, godliness is of value in every way. Lastly, Paul instructs Timothy not only to practice these things but become immersed in them, all the while persisting in the faith, “for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” Interpret/Application/Question: What is godliness? How would you define it? What would it look like in the day-to-day? Paul lays out what behaviours, actions, and attributes are fruits of godliness, but I think it’s fair to say that it is more than a list of traits that can be ticked off a list; it is something more, something magnetic and obvious and aromatic to the souls of others. It’s worth pointing out that Paul was not writing such instruction only for Timothy so many centuries ago, but for me and you today. He also touches not only on practical, human aspects but on divine mystery as well, linking the two together as parts of a whole. It is for this reason that we know godliness is not merely a set of actions to be performed but the intangible presence of a heart in love with God, immersed in the Holy Spirit. Remember, godliness is not restricted for a certain few “really good” Christians (whatever that means) who might play music on Sundays or serve communion or whatever – it is something in which every single Christian must live if we truly are what we say we are and believe what we say we believe. Godliness isn’t some sort of Christianity Plus Members Club where only a few are invited to participate, rather it is the foundational proof of one whose life really has been given over to Christ. It isn’t acquired through striving, rather it is developed through immersion: in community, fellowship, prayer, worship, and so much more. Very likely others will spot it in you before you spot it in yourself. The fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23), these marks of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, develop slowly and steadily and will always always always bring about a real change in our real lives, pointing towards our real God. Paul tells us to “Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” So let’s circle back and answer our initial question. Godliness is the mark of any sinner who has truly, truly given themselves, their heart, their very body and soul over to God to do with what He pleases. It is the working out of stubborn sin and the working in of patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, selflessness, true love of one’s neighbour, and most of all true love of God. If we have been claiming to have followed Jesus for some time now, it isn’t unreasonable for me or anyone else to ask, “is godliness evident in your life?” There is no close second or alternative to godliness but plenty of counterfeits. We as Christians are obliged to become trained in the words of the faith so that we may be able to discern between that which is from God and that which is mere imitation, the teachings of demons, or silly and irreverent myths. Here in North America especially we have unending resources in this area, Bibles and studies and groups to fit any schedule and all learning styles. For those who say they want to know Christ but don’t put any effort into training, there are no excuses. This isn’t some ethereal, philosophical, out-of-reach theological topic. Godliness is the very mark of salvation. We are meant to pursue it with everything we have, and that means pursuing God Himself. What could be more valuable than Him? Nothing in the entire world, seen or unseen. It is of the utmost value, and upon Him each one of us can confidently stake our very souls. Paul says it best – “godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.” Brothers and sisters, we are either in or out. We either get serious about Christ or walk away, for lukewarm faith is worst of all. He is either worth everything to you or nothing at all. C.S. Lewis says it well: “I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don’t accept his claim to be God. That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic — on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg — or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at him and kill him as a demon or you can fall at his feet and call him Lord and God, but let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about his being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.” Prayer: Thank you, Lord God, for your saving grace and patient instruction. Please keep us from lukewarm faith – set a fire in our hearts to know you with everything we have! Teach us to search diligently for you no matter our circumstance, that we might live godly lives that bring light and hope to others. Amen! Song: Knowing You - Shane & Shane 1 Timothy 1-2 (Ps 19) Lynne McCarthy 11/25/21
Observe Paul’s pastoral epistle to Timothy addresses a persistent problem of false teaching in the church at Ephesus. Idle speculation replacing true advancement of God’s Kingdom, Paul tasks him with correcting teachers and teaching. (1:3-4) Paul’s goal: love arising from pure, guiltless and unpretentious desire (5) -- for the Lord. For the disobedient, Paul lists sins against each commandment of the Law in their order (8-10). He gives a ‘resume’ of his past life, thanking God for His grace and mercy. The once “foremost of sinners” is now His servant (13,16). The last verses bookend Paul’s charge to Timothy, assuring him that God will strengthen him in his calling to ‘fight the good fight’ (18). Lastly, Paul shares a sadness: two men have abandoned the faith. Gospel-shaped living is the focus of chapter two. Prayer for all sorts of people, from governors down the ladder, results in quiet, Godly life (2:2; 1:5[LM1] ); in His desire to save all people. Ephesian men have a problem: anger. They should lift their hands in prayer, not use them as fists. Women: over-the-top clothing and bling. They need worship sense, less fashion sense. Women not speaking in church or teaching men had a reason… Interpret Sound teaching versus false teaching in the Ephesian church -- Timothy has a big job, but early childhood spiritual training and Paul’s mentoring fitted him for the task. It’s a slog for him to keep going with all the Stuff happening, but Paul encourages him: “Fight the good fight!” By prayer and perseverance, he does more than just stick out a tough job. Excommunication was all Paul could do to stop Alexander and Hymenaeus from their unnamed malevolence. Satan’s domain, the godless world, was where he sent these men, to protect the church. They made their choice. Touchy verses about women in chapter 2: In that culture, (and in some today), men and women sat in separate sections. In this church, women apparently interrupted sermons by shouting questions and comments to their husbands during the service; disconcerting for husbands and preachers! Biblical headship for men in church and family life may raise eyebrows (or ire). Eve was the first to sin, but Adam lunged for that apple, too, with results we still suffer under. Women married for protection, arranged without romantic illusions, a business exchange. Children enlarged family lines (this is the only reference to ‘salvation’ in having children, and not a norm). Christian marriage and parenthood, though, are entirely different. (Eph. 5). Apply Increasing anti-authority starting in the 60s turned the unique roles of men and women upside down. Not all women have children; salvation doesn’t depend on this, but nurturing blesses mothers called to this role. Singleness limits, but not in what Christ has done for all who follow and love Him -- the best ‘gender equality’ going. It’s a tough verse! “Submit” = “respect” for all authority, despite social hubris. Respect and courtesy are rarities now but we work against the trafficking of present cultural norms. As the world becomes more rude, selfish, angry, immoral, unethical, and downright confused, this is our training ground, and even with our children must fight the good fight. Prayer. Prayer. It’s hard slogging sometimes. We have God, we have each other. We have qualities of respect and love through Jesus. It’s more than enough! Ask Do we recognize the priorities of our spiritual leaders? Do we encourage, love, pray for them as they do us, or go negative when things don’t please us? How do we fight the good fight with them and not fight against them? What equipment do we need? (Eph 6 has a good list.) Pray We praise You, Lord God, that You bless us with sound teaching and committed teachers. Thank You for the holy challenge of reading Your Word in its entirety this year by Your Holy Spirit. As we hear, read, mark, learn and inwardly digest what is true and good through Your appointed ministers, please fit us[LM2] to pass these on to others so they too may meet, love, and obey You. In Jesus’ name. Song https://youtu.be/5fWcGe7wzd4- Michael Joncas https://youtu.be/-TIgfoH_mzk Fernando Ortega 2 Thessalonians 1-3 (Psalm 18)
Observe
Interpret I encourage you to watch the video summary of this book, (click here). To understand these New Testament letters, when they describe and consider Christ’s return, it is good to remember what we learnt from the prophets of the Old Testament. The Day of the Lord will come suddenly (unexpectedly), it will be cosmic and unmistakable, and it will be a time of judgement. The Thessalonians are under persecution and are being subjected to speculation that this Day has already come. Paul clearly tells them the contrary and explains how their suffering for Christ will prove worthwhile; they will be worthy of God’s Kingdom whereas those who refuse God, and persecute the Church, will face eternal punishment. Paul goes on to describe what will occur before and at Christ’s return. Evil, delusions and lawlessness will increase and culminate in the arrival of the ‘man of lawlessness,’ (see further under application). Jesus will defeat all, true judgement will arrive, and God’s Kingdom will come in full. Finally there is a warning against idleness which leads to problems and sin. This may be simply a practical warning but may also refer to a way of life in the culture of the day. These big and serious topics are wonderfully interlaced with prayers of encouragement, words of grace and reasons for hope (1: 3-4, 11-2; 2: 13-17; & 3: 1-5, 16). The Church is to endure and preserve in the certain hope of Christ. Peace and grace are their foundation on which they are to stand firm. They are encouraged to be a thankful Church whose faith grows strong and whose love increases. Application End times writings and prophecies often cause speculation and concern. In some ways that is what they are meant to do; we should be concerned about and ready for Christ’s return, we should be reading the times that we are in and acting accordingly (Matt. 16:3). The ‘man of lawlessness’ has been understood in differing ways. To name two: a cycle of growing evil that Jesus will completely overcome on His return (Bible Project Video for example); or as an actual individual, worse than those seen before (an antichrist 1 John 2: 18, 22; 4:3). Personally I remain open to what it may mean but favour the growing cycle of evil as that is what I see in our history and it fits with Christ’s words on this matter (Matt. 24 esp. vs. 33). Speculation and fretfulness over end times and application to current context can be harmful or beneficial. Negatively it can lead to false prophecies, division, unrest of hearts and minds, and an incorrect and unhealthy focus; we can forget our hope in Christ and purpose as a Church. In a positive way it can cause us to fix our eyes on Jesus, strengthen our faith in His hope, live in readiness and reassure us that God is Sovereign. Truth to aid us in the positive: the time is only known to God the Father (Matt. 24: 36); there is purpose in this situation and it’s delay (2 Peter 3: 9-11); there is evil in the world but Jesus in us is greater than anything (1 John 4: 4); God is Sovereign (Eph. 1: 11b); and His Victory is assured (2 Thess. 2: 8). The Question of Application There is much in our readings today about false truths, delusions, counterfeit signs and deception. In our current situation what may be deceiving you and causing anxiety? How might a right focus on the truth of Christ reassure you and grow your faith? Prayer May our God make us worthy of His calling, that by His power He may bring to fruition our every desire for goodness and our every deed prompted by faith. May the Lord Jesus guide our hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance. All this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in us, and us in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen From 1 Thess. 11-12 & 3: 5 Praise Days of Elijah by Robin Mark The Lion and the Lamb by Bethel Music November 23th – 1 Thessalonians 5
Observe: In Chapter 5, reminds the Thessalonians that when Jesus returns, it will be suddenly and without warning. In the previous chapters, Paul had spoken to them about the resurrection and the second coming of Christ, so he says how pointless it is to wonder about the particular time of Christ’s coming, which will be sudden and terrible for the wicked, but comfortable for the saints. They should, therefore, live their lives in a constant state of readiness to greet Him. Paul encourages them to continue living as children of the light, doing all the things they have been doing as true followers of Jesus. They must not allow themselves to be like those who still live in darkness, doing the sinful things they do in the dark. Paul again uses the metaphor of the armour of God similar to his letter to the Ephesians (Eph 5:13-17), when he tells them to put on their faith and love as a breastplate and their hope of salvation as a helmet. Paul closes his letter to the church with a number of exhortations. First, he gives them a general list: they are to acknowledge and support God’s workers among them; to remain in unity; to provide each other with what they need; and to be patient and kind to all. Then he lists a trio of exhortations related to a worshipful heart: to always rejoice; to continue in prayer; and to give thanks in every situation. Finally, Paul turns his attention to an exhortation designed to ensure they do not “quench” the Spirit. They must not despise prophecies, but rather, they are to evaluate them and embrace what is good and reject what is evil. Paul ends his letter with a directive to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters. Interpret: Paul was with the Thessalonians only for a few short weeks (Acts 17:2), but in that time he taught them about the Gospel of Jesus Christ including the end times and His glorious return. Paul tells them that they have nothing to fear from the coming of the day of the Lord. Therefore, they should live their lives in harmony with all that that day stands for. Such an approach to life demonstrates faith in God who guides our lives. No one knows the exact hour a thief will come, but we must live in a general preparation against thieves. Those who are not in darkness, Christians, who live as the people of the light and of the day, they are ready for the return of Jesus. Because we do not belong to the night nor to the darkness, their spiritual condition should never be marked by “sleep” like other people. Spiritually speaking, we need to be active and aware, to “watch and be sober.”(v6) Paul urges them to recognize and support their leaders, “who work hard among you” (v12). They are to be loved because of their work. Leaders are recognized not by their title but by their service. A title is fine, but only if the title is true and if the title describes what that person really is before God. When Paul warns against quenching the Spirit (v19), he is referring to the work that the Spirit is doing in them and through them. One of the ways God was working in them was by pouring out the prophetic Spirit among them, which was widespread among the early churches (1 Cor. 14:1, 5, 26-31). The Old Testament often associated the Spirit with prophetic inspiration, so “Do not quench the Spirit” is admonition not to demean prophecy when it comes to them. However, Paul understands that not all prophecies or messages are from God. Not only that, but, they may hear something that really is from God, yet misunderstand or miscommunicate it. In other words, “we know and prophesy in part (1 Cor. 13:9). Therefore, he tells them to “test all things” (v21) so that they may discern God’s will Then, after evaluating these messages, they should embrace what is good and reject what is evil (v21-22). Paul may have meant this final warning specifically for prophecy, but even so, they must be applied in a more general way to all situations and events. Application: The exact timing of the return of Jesus Christ to gather His people to Himself will be a surprise to everybody, because no one knows the day or the hour (Matthew 24:36). But for faithful Christians, it will not be a complete surprise because we live in anticipation of His return. Just as no one knows the exact hour that a thief will come, we can live in a general preparation against thieves. Those who love the Lord, wear His armour and live as the sons and daughters of light. These followers of Christ will be the ones most ready for the return of Jesus. We prepare ourselves by spending time with the Lord in quietness and prayer. We prepare by reading and studying scripture. We prepare by following the Lord’s command to help those who are the least able to help themselves. But if we are in darkness, as the world lives in darkness, perhaps caught up in some of the sins or idolatry that Paul warned against previously in this letter, then we will not be ready, and need to make ourselves ready for the return of Jesus through earnest repentance. When Paul speaks of Christians being asleep, as the world is asleep, there is so much that belongs to the world, the non-believers, but should not belong to Christians. Sleep implies ignorance, but we know the truth of the Gospel. Sleep implies insensibility, but we are alive in Christ. Sleep implies defenselessness, but we have the armour of God. Sleep implies inactivity, but we have work that God has planned for us, and the Holy Spirit to guide and encourage us in that work. We have what the world wants but doesn’t know it…Jesus. Questions: Have you fallen asleep spiritually by preferring the old patterns of doing things over what God is doing now, or by deliberately being disobedient? Prayer: Father God, we ask your forgiveness for all the times we have fallen asleep and followed the ways of the world. We thank you for your great mercy and patience with us, and for the unmatched joy and love we find when we enter into your presence, which is only possible through the sacrifice of our Lord, Jesus Christ, in whose holy name we pray. Amen. Song: Jesus – Chris Tomlin |
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