Note – The Sermon focusing on the letters to the Thessalonians will be on Dec 12th. It comes at a later time in the sermon series due to the End Times content; which connects with Revelation.
OBSERVE: Within these two chapters we observe the following:
INTERPRET: When Timothy brought a report from his visit to the Thessalonians, he brought good news. This good news was that the Thessalonians were doing well in their faith and love. Paul expresses his joy that the Thessalonians are enduring persecution faithfully, and he prays that they will continue to grow in the faith. The next chapter begins to address points that Paul wants to clarify. The first of these points is the need to grow in good works. The next point is to avoid living immorally. Paul is making these points because they are to be set apart by living in these ways. Paul then dispels some false gossip rumors about the resurrection. Paul emphasizes that no one who is in Christ will miss out on the resurrection; whether dead or alive. APPLICATION: Paul’s reaction to the good news that Timothy brought back about the Thessalonians should be an example for us all. Paul felt great joy when hearing about the endurance of their faith; even providing encouragement to Paul in times of distress and persecution. This joy then expressed itself into prayer for their future well-being. As members on one united body; we should all experience this same joy when one of our brothers and sisters are doing well in the faith. When someone in the family of believers grows in faith and love; it only helps the body as a whole. It is in this joy for others; that we can experience great joy in the presence of the Lord like Paul did. Our genuine hope should be that we will all experience the glorious resurrection on the Day of the Lord. REFLECTION: Do you find great joy in the spiritual well-being of others? Do you often pray for the continued well-being of others? PRAYER: Gracious Lord; thank you for all of my brothers and sisters in the faith. May you continue to do a great work in them; helping them all to grow in their faith and love. I ask that you fill me with more joy in all of their victories; and may this joy encourage myself in times of distress. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. AMEN SONG: Thessalonians Song Colossians 1-2
Observe: Colossians 1-2 begin with an introduction by Paul during one of his many imprisonments to a group of people in Colossus whom he had never met. He rejoices in thanksgiving that this church has been growing in love of Christ and demonstrating that love to one another as they continue to hope in the life to come. This is followed by a prayer that they would continue to grow in wisdom and understanding, being strengthened with all power according to God’s glorious might, that they might joyfully endure whatever life throws at them. Following this, Paul lays out a theologically dense and compact poem that tells all about the crucified and resurrected Christ. The first stanza tells how Jesus is first over all creation and is divine, how everything was made through Him and one day all things will bow before Him. He is also the head of a new body, the church, and it is in Him that we find the glorious presence of God as we are reconciled to Him by His death on the cross. Going on, Paul rejoices in his sufferings knowing that by them he is participating in the suffering Christ underwent. His punishment for proclaiming the Gospel is a badge of honour. Paul then lays out warnings that these Colossians must not be drawn astray from the good news of Jesus Christ and follow after the pantheists and pagans, or those who seek to dilute the Gospel by following the now-obsolete Torah Law. He explains that Christ’s life and death and resurrection fulfilled the Law that we ought to trust in Him instead of the Law for our righteousness, that no following of the Law can save. Interpret/Application: I know Philippians is Paul’s most joyful letter but I’ve found the letter to the Colossians just as uplifting. These two chapters alone are a great way to start each day, each week, and prove as a pattern after which we can model our minds and behaviour. Reading chapters one and two, we ourselves should start each day, each quiet time of prayer, or anything else with thanksgiving followed by acknowledging our need for wisdom and understanding. We ought to ask God routinely for the ability to understand His will and for increased humility and strength to obey it! It is also of supreme worth to remind ourselves exactly who Christ is, “the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.” Always keep one eye or more on the bigger picture during your prayers. It is of the utmost importance for our prayer life to keep Christ as the number one priority and, as much as we ought to be diligent in all things, not to get distracted and weighed down by the nitty gritty. So often we find ourselves putting God aside to focus on ourselves, but that is an unholy priority. God wants us to keep our eyes on Him in utmost trust and faith that HE will take care of us and bring us along. We gain nothing by shutting Him out and becoming self-centered. Colossians reminds us of the place in which we ought to put Christ. Following this we have healthy reminder that suffering is not an alien experience to humanity but was indeed the means by which Christ reconciled us to God. It is not something to intentionally seek out or to run away from, but we must not be surprised when we find ourselves between a rock and a hard place. That’s because Christ has overcome the world and has shared in our suffering. On top of that, we know that He uses all things to the good of those who love Him, and that whatever comes our way in life will be shed when we step from our fallen humanity into His glorious, eternal presence! With this in mind, Paul reminds us not to go chasing after supplements to our faith or let in anything that would dilute our dependence on Christ. Here we find firm and reliable words of the utter and comprehensive salvation given to those who turn to Him and that nothing of the flesh can compete with having the power that raised Christ from the dead also working in you. Finally, we must not think more of ourselves than we ought. Here we find another key reminder that we are to submit to Christ and that which He asks us to do, even though it goes against our flesh. We should be so sold out to Christ that whatever it is He requires of us should find no competition in our sinful selves. We must watch for those who have the appearance of wisdom but ultimately promote themselves, but seek that which comes from God and promotes the unity and health of His body, this Church. I would encourage everyone who reads this to try this pattern of prayer and see how the Lord works with you in it! Question: Take another read of Colossians 1-2: What sort of prayer pattern can you see there? What sort of changes would you make and why? Prayer: Dear Father, thank you for providing so much for us not only in the words of this book but also the ultimate act of love and salvation. Please help us to engage more deeply in prayer and chase after you as our greatest desire, laying aside everything else and rejoicing in your presence. Amen! Song: Goodness of God (Bethel Music) Philippians 3-4 (Ps. 12) Lynne McCarthy 11/18/21
Observe: Written to a persecuted church and from Paul’s imprisonment, these chapters radiate God’s joy and glory. Paul insists that faith in Christ, not works, is righteousness (3:1-11). Rejoice in the Lord. (1) Always! Repeat! A watchword, a motto. But he also warns the Philippians about false teachers who would imprison them again in old ways of doing and being (3). Paul’s credentials are impeccable, and he lays out his resume to prove it: Jewish to the core, strict in observing the Law, a Pharisee, even persecuting the church. Yet for him these (human) accomplishments are worth nothing compared to being in fellowship with Christ. He needs no further proving; Christ is his centre, and that’s everything (7-11). Again, he speaks of the coming of Jesus, transforming lowly bodies into Christ’s (20,21) – encouragement and future joy for citizens of His country. (20) Then, final greetings and instructions in Chapter 4. After admonishing two women disciples to reconcile despite their differences comes another explosion – Rejoice in the Lord! Always! (7) Repeat! Again! I say, rejoice! Set the mind upward on things good, positive, beautiful, Godly. The promises of deep, incomprehensible peace refit minds and hearts to His love. (10) Paul thanks the Philippian church for providing for his needs, expressing contentment in any situation (10-13) And as is his custom, his final greetings bless us, too. Interpret: Paul’s Christ-centred, hard life brims over with rejoicing. Setting minds on what is good isn’t Oprah-feel-good, but the most healing, foundational, relationally sound way to live, because this is from God. Contentment is a rare character trait in our frenzied times; Paul shows us how to acquire it (4:11-13). Themes of joy in hardship, humility, love, service, hope beyond suffering, and God's glory tie in to Pastor Dave’s sermon of October 17. Consistently living in Jesus, who gave Himself up in love for others, is witness beyond words. Heart and head work jointly to spread God’s love by knowing Him, loving others in the Spirit even if disagreeing. Paul endured much for the sake of Christ, but it was so worth it for him. It is and will be for us, too. Apply: We need a firm grip on the Lord, coming daily to Him in prayer, repentance, thanks, not relying on emotions but intentionally looking to Him. We overlay the grid of our minds on God’s goodness even while struggling against old patterns – a real challenge in the confusion and discord around us. This takes practice, but the Spirit puts our minds and hearts into rejoicing mode. Good thoughts! We look for these, especially when surrounded by negative cultural, spiritual, relational influences. The list in 4:8 describes character; imagine so describing our selves! But as the Spirit leads us to will and think newly, hearts and minds gradually re-form by grace and the Spirit’s action. It’s called, perhaps, ‘obedience’. Ask: After months of separation from fellowship, am I ready for the Lord’s renewing work in and among us, or am I content with It’s How We Always Dunnit So Why Change? How will I remain in unity with others in His renewed church, full of His truth and love? How will I rejoice, always? What do I take away from this short, significant letter? Pray: Lord Jesus, thank you that You are at hand – now and to come. There’s no cause for anxiety or panic even in these most confusing times because You are always near. I bring my prayers and requests to you with humble thanks, knowing Your unexplainable peace guards my heart and mind and life in the safe haven of Your presence. Help me by Your Spirit and Your grace to think upward thoughts, beginning and ending in You, to demonstrate the Real Joy that is Your extraordinary gift. Songs: https://youtu.be/pTTlSx6zXio Graham Kendrick https://youtu.be/x_Ch1gD7SkU Debra Arnott https://youtu.be/GikC3W2ynjA Two Door Cinema Club https://youtu.be/KIy3KBRoBaM Brentwood Benson “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”
Philippians 2: 1-2 Philippians 1-2 (Psalm 11) Observe
Interpret This is a letter of encouragement and thanksgiving, coupled with a call to remain united. Paul had helped start the Church in Philippi, a town full of veteran Roman soldiers as this was a Roman colony. It was a commercial centre due to its history as a mining location. Paul had personally faced much persecution there and illegal imprisonment; the Church was now facing the same (Acts 16) (1: 29-30). In this shared experience there clearly was a bond and good relationship with Paul; the Church had sent Epaphroditus to care for Paul. His letter overflows with love for them. And there is joy! In these opening chapters we see joy in: prayer; mercy; seeing the Gospel preached; faith; in news of a loved one; and even in suffering…..even joy that the gospel is preached by people with false motives, because it IS being preached. Paul then demonstrates an incredible conviction of mindset; for to him, to live is Christ, to die is gain (1: 21). Whilst imprisoned and possibly facing death he would be happy to live to serve Christ and bless others; or to die and be fully with Christ, WOW! He explains that, for the Church and himself, they both have been granted the privilege of belief in Christ and suffering for Him. This should lead to a sense and reality of unity in Christ. Jesus being the source of comfort and encouragement, dwelling within them by His Spirit and so bringing about a oneness of mind and purpose (2: 1-4). The encouragement then is to imitate Christ’s attitude of obedience, humility, self-sacrifice and love (2: 5-11). In this unity and Christ-like living the signs of salvation will be present in witness and growth; the Church and individual must continually mature (2: 12-18). Application Suffering is a reality of life. Often we are the cause of our own discomfort, sometimes it is others, and sometimes circumstances beyond our control. Whatever the situation, we have God’s reassurance that He will use it for our good (Romans 8: 28). In this letter we see Paul and the Church suffering because of their faith. This actually strengthens their faith, unity and amazingly promotes joy. They grasped the overriding priority and reality of eternity with Christ. They understood what they faced in light of this truth. The encouragement then for us is to mirror their attitude and mindset. In doing so we will be imitating Jesus Himself (as described above). Our motive is for unity with Christ, and one another, through and in His Spirit. If this seems a step to far or simply too hard, be encouraged; God will finish His work in us (1: 6), and God works in us to act according to His will and purpose (2: 13). Jesus has gone before us and will walk with us every step of the way AND we have each other. The Question of Application Read 2: 1-4. What false motives need surrendering to Christ (3-4) what genuine motives need enhancing (1-2)? Prayer And this is our prayer: that our love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that we may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ – to the glory and praise of God. Amen From Philippians 1: 9-11 Praise The Servant King by Graham Kendrick November 16th – Les Kovacs Ephesians 5 - 6
Observe: These chapters are a continuation of Paul’s thoughts from Chapter 4, in which he discussed sins we, as Christians, should avoid. We are to live as dearly loved children of God, imitating the life of Jesus. Paul encourages us to be Christ-like in our lives, to live as children of the light, not as those who live in darkness, with their impure ways. Those who pursue those impure ways have no inheritance in God’s kingdom. We may have once dwelt in the darkness, but because of Christ, we now live in the light. We must be careful to do only what is pleasing to God, and to praise Him for all He has done for us. After discussing a lifestyle that contrary to walking in love as an imitation of Jesus, Paul then gives a description of what walking in love looks like. The greatest example of walking I love was to give up your life for another, which is what Christ did for us. The next greatest example is to give up our will to one another, in a lifestyle of mutual submission. In marriage, both husband and wife are to submit to each other, with their main motivation being a submission to the Lord. Beyond the example of marriage, Paul then speaks to the family relationships, saying that children must submit to their parents, in the Lord. He points out that this is the first commandment that contains a promise, “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Parents also should not provoke their children, but raise them with a knowledge and understanding of God. Paul then addresses the relationship of master and slave, calling each to deal with one another with respect out of submission to the Lord, because they both have a Master in Heaven who will deal with them according to how they each deal with the other. Finally, Paul says to stay strong in the Lord and His mighty power by putting on the full armour of God. That is what will protect you from all the attacks of the enemy, in all its worldly forms. The armour of God is the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of Spirit, which is the Word of God. Interpret: In these chapters, we see Paul return to themes that he has touched upon before, namely walking in love in imitation of Jesus, and submission to one another in love as an act of submission to God. Paul contrasts the old ways of living in the spiritual darkness of the world, with the new ways of living in the light of the love of Christ. We are to demonstrate our love for one another by submitting to each other out of obedience to God. Regardless of our relationship with the other person, whether as a spouse, a family member or someone in a work relationship, we are to put the other person’s interests ahead of our own. Being imitators of Christ means imitating His submission to God. Jesus put our spiritual well-being ahead of His own life. Paul knows how difficult that depth of submission is for us. The only way for us to persevere in our love for one another is to immerse ourselves in Christ, to put on the armour of God. When Paul says “be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power”, we understand that all the pieces of this armor come from God. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit are all gifts from God to His people to strengthen and encourage us, to allow us to stand firm in our faith and Application: Paul’s teaching on the submission of wives to their husbands and the husband’s devotion to his wife to the point of sacrificing his life for her has been so horribly misunderstood, misrepresented, and misused that most people in western society shrink from discussing these passages as if their ears would explode upon just hearing the words. But they miss the point Paul is making. As imitators of Christ, we are to submit to each other in love, out of obedience to God. We are to respect the dignity and welfare of every human being, especially those whom we love the most. We must hear their voices. We must share their burdens. We must offer them our help. We must serve each other as if we serving God directly, because we are. In Matthew 25:34-40, Jesus is telling His disciples about the sheep and the goats, and when asked by the sheep when they had ever served Him in all those deplorable circumstances, the King (Jesus) replied, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” None of this is possible without putting on the armour of God every single day. Questions: Husbands and wives, parents and children, employers and employees, do you love each other enough, within your context, to put the other person ahead of yourself? Prayer: Father God, you are the source of all goodness and love. Help us to put on the armour of God, without which we are vulnerable to the dark influences of this world, and without which we know we cannot serve you in love and Obedience. Help us to submit to each other and serve them just as we submit our will to yours and serve only you. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Big Daddy Weave - Audience of One - YouTube OBSERVE: Within these chapters we observe the following:
INTERPRET: Paul was a minister of the gospel according to God’s grace. Though he was the least likely to be in this role, God gave him this calling to share Christ with the Gentiles. He sought to bring light to everyone, regarding the plan and grace of God. The first three chapters of this letter are primarily doctrine; while the last three chapters provide a practical approach on how to live. It is chapter 3 that begins the transition from a Christian understanding of salvation, grace, and the power of Christ; into a practical guide for Christian living. To ease the transition, Paul refers to his own calling by God and prays for the spiritual strength of the Ephesian church. Beginning in chapter 4, Paul puts the doctrine into practice. Paul begins by emphasizing the ultimate unity of all Christians. Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts are given to us through the grace of God. These gifts are then used to build up the church as a unified body. Paul also begins to explain how knowledge of God’s truths should translate into real life action. Paul urges the church to live in ways that reflect the grace that they’ve been given. APPLICATION: God’s grace is an undeserved gift that is epitomized at the cross. Grace is an undeserved gift that keeps on giving; as we continually seek to be transformed by the Holy Spirit. Grace is not only a quality of the nature of God, but it is an acting of God that works in us to change our capacity for obedience, work and even suffering. God’s grace empowers us to live in ways that glorify God. We are to set our minds on spiritual things; putting on the new self of godly living. As we focus on Christ and what he has done for us; he will build up the church as one unified body. As believers; the Holy Spirit will equip us with spiritual gifts. These spiritual gifts will help us minister to other believers and to make a difference to the world around us. REFLECTION: Have you be prepared to receive the spiritual gifts that God wants to grace you with? Have you discerned your gifts by testing them within your church body? PRAYER: Heavenly Father; I pray that out of your glorious riches you may strengthen me daily with power through your Spirit; so that Christ may dwell in my heart. I also ask that you will help me; along with all of your holy people; to grasp how wide and long and high and deep your love is. AMEN. SONG: Ephesians 3:14 20- A Scripture Song Blog Post 41: The Law and Faith in Christ (Gal 3-4)
Observe: A very frustrated Paul is writing to his Galatian audience over their impending rejection of the grace of Jesus Christ by listening to those who preach salvation by works. “How foolish can you be? After starting your new lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort?” He insists that the law is of no use in bringing anyone closer to God and goes on to explain that “… those who depend on the law to make them right before God are under his curse, for the Scriptures say, “Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the law and commands that are written in God’s Book of the Law.”” He emphasizes his point by showing that God initiated His covenant with Abraham by promise and not by law, and Abraham was the forefather of Israel. The purpose of the law is here explained as both a guardian and a means by which the sins of all those who are under it have been revealed. Jesus, Paul explains, was the one who came and liberated those captive to the law of sin and death, and now they ought to live in Christ. He urges them to remember that “now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are His child, God has made you his heir.” Paul goes on to express concern for the souls of these wayward Galatians, reminding them that they were once slaves before they received Christ and not to return to that same slavery. He draws parallels between them and the two sons of Abraham, Isaac and Ishmael. Ishmael was born of a slave and his descendants continue on in slavery. Paul says that those who are in Christ have been born again and not into slavery but freedom in Christ. Interpret: A lot of these two chapters is fairly straight forward and clear in its message, but it’s worth repeating once again here that we are not slaves to anyone or anything once we are in Christ, so we ought to live like it. Paul is desperate here to keep the Galatians on track with the truth of the Gospel, that the entire point of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection was to break the power of sin and death, fulfill the law, and bring those under it into union with God Almighty. Basically Paul is saying that if they don’t have that, then they don’t have anything. It takes a lot of work and depends on Divine Power for sinners to have their eyes opened to their true state, to have stubborn hearts melted and faces turned towards the light. It depends on the Holy Spirit’s irresistible call of grace that breaks through pride and arrogance, drawing sinners home. I personally believe that it is far easier to depend on works – real, tangible things we can do with our hands and heads – to get us into God’s graces, for that requires little in the way of obedience of the heart. If all we had to do was one good deed a day, or to say a certain prayer, or bow in a certain direction to gain salvation then we would feel a lot more confident in our own abilities to save ourselves. That’s what the Galatians have been tempted with, and that is a clear rejection of the Gospel and God’s grace. For we are saved not by the words of our mouths or the works of our hands but by a change of heart and the birth of a new creation within us. We are saved when we humble ourselves and do the unthinkable: actually do what God tells us to do; that is, depend on Him and His work on the cross. When we actually take that leap and dive into His hands we can be sure we will be caught. There is nothing that can separate us from the love of God, however we do need to put Him where He belongs, where He wants to be: First and foremost in our lives. If we find ourselves at odds with God or His Body, He is not the problem. The hardest thing to do is to humble ourselves. That’s true now and was true for the Galatians who, I imagine, must have felt much more secure if they were able to procure salvation with their own good deeds and obedience to the law. Paul, however, calls both them and us to do better than that. He calls us to acknowledge the superiority and sovereignty of God in every aspect of our lives and to not humble ourselves once but, just as Jesus Christ the Son of God, empty ourselves for the sake of others. Application and Question - But what does that mean? One of the hardest things to do when someone is struggling with sin, addiction, or any other sort of unhealthy situation is trying to get them to recognize that they are indeed enslaved to something dangerous and harmful. There comes a time when debate and discussion are of no more use. It is no longer a matter of the head but of the heart, and nobody can change hearts but God. Paul was desperate for those whose hearts had been changed to not be fooled or led astray. He urges them and us not to submit again to the yoke of slavery from which we were liberated. We must not be ignorant of the schemes of Satan either who constantly seeks to divide and conquer like a pack of wolves – to isolate members of the church one by one and pick them off, inflating their pride and self-reliance to the point where they are unable to recognize their own sin. It is good to get a reality check now and again, however God requires us not to submit ourselves to Him occasionally and only when we get off track but to live and walk attentively by His side. Psalm 32:9 says “Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.” If any of us read the words of Paul in Galatians 3-4 (or even these ones, as I am speaking from Scripture) and believes that you certainly cannot be guilty of arrogance or pride or are blind to your own sin, that you are too well-read, too experienced, too in-the-know to be wrong, rest assured that all these words are levelled directly at you. Paul was desperately concerned with the unity of the church in both letters to the Corinthians and though the reasons for division are different with the Galatians, the same alarm bells are ringing. The Lord desires us all to act humbly, to live in that humility which we saw exemplified in Christ who gave up His security for the sake of others, that we can recognize when our eyes and ears are leading us astray. Are you preaching salvation by works? Are you dividing the body and isolating yourself? Who or what do you prize most in this entire life? Remember the words of Jesus Christ. If we find ourselves torn between standing up for ourselves and laying our lives down for the sake of the Body of Christ then be comforted, for Luke 14:26-7 says “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Christ gave up His life not so that we could take it and go our own ways, but that we would actually, honestly DIE to ourselves, our opinions, our ideas, and LIVE for Him! Heaven forbid we actually do that in this day and age, that we actually step out in faith and burst the bubble of arrogance and pride. Are we serious about the unity of the Body? Thenet us submit ourselves fully to Christ. Those same Galatians who preached the law were sincere, but sincerity is not a mark of truth. “Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you?” Let us no longer be fools but be wise, for the days are evil and few. We must never be found to hinder the work of God. We have been broken out of prison, and the life we had there was no life at all. Let us lay down our life for Christ and live by faith in Him, hating our own lives and sacrificing our comforts and beliefs for the sake of His heavenly Kingdom. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for setting us free from the law of sin and death, for opening our eyes and doing for us what we could never have done on our own. Please help us submit in true humility to you and go where you would have us go, never considering ourselves but emptying ourselves for others, that we might work to keep the unity of your Body in faith and works, to the glory of your Holy Name. Amen. Song: In Christ Alone (Shane & Shane) Text: Galatians 1, 2, Acts 15
Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10 Observation: Unlike his other letters that begin with thanksgiving and prayer for the recipient churches, the letter to the Galatians gets straight to the point with Paul’s emotional expression of astonishment that the Galatians are turning to a different gospel than what they originally heard and accepted. Influential individuals among them are causing a lot of confusion by changing and perverting the gospel of Christ. Paul says he is not willing to be a people-pleaser and he boldly reminds the Galatian believers of his original gospel message to them, a revelation he received directly from Jesus Christ. Paul qualifies his message saying he did not need the approval of the other apostles in Jerusalem because God called him and revealed Jesus to him personally and directly. It was only later in his faith journey that Paul met Peter and the other apostles and shared with them his call to preach to the Gentiles. At that time, he went to Jerusalem and met with the leaders of the Jewish believers and his call was readily affirmed by them. Continuing his letter, Paul shares about a time when Peter fell into the same struggle the Galatians are experiencing: Although Peter was Jewish, he exercised his freedom from the law and ate with Gentiles. But when he visited Antioch, pressure from certain people influenced Peter to give up this freedom. When Paul saw how this hypocrisy negatively impacted Barnabas, he openly confronted Peter and corrected this wrong way of thinking and living. Paul explained that for Jews and Gentiles alike, it is faith in Jesus alone that justifies the believer, not the additional observance of the law. It is an abandoning of the grace of God to seek to fulfil the law in order to be made righteous. If that were true, Christ’s death was for nothing. Interpretation: Paul was zealous to defend the essence of the gospel message. His life was an extreme example of the transformational power of the true revelation of Jesus. Paul knew none of his former efforts to fulfill Jewish Torah laws, no matter how passionately pursued, could earn him a status of righteousness before God. It was only the perfection of Jesus’ life and his sacrificial death that enabled Paul to be justified and made righteous before God. At his conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul humbly set aside the idea that he could do anything to earn God’s favour. It was only through what Jesus did that Paul was able to come into approval with God. As he confronts false teaching by writing this letter to the Galatian churches, Paul’s identity in Jesus gives him boldness to face rejection from people. He models for the believers the very truth he communicates: do not nullify God’s grace by falling into the practice of people-pleasing, instead stand firm in your identity of being approved by God through your faith in Jesus. By accommodating persuasive false teachers and entertaining their ideas, the Galatians have fallen into people-pleasing instead of fearing God and living in the fullness of the gospel. The pressure to perform any particular part of Jewish Torah law was actually changing the truth of the gospel message they originally received. It was only their identity in Jesus, his righteousness that justified them, not any sort of work they could do to be made more right with God; the costly price of Jesus’ death was enough. The believer does not need anything else to be made right with God--so, they need to resist and reject the pressure from false teachers saying otherwise. Application: Paul understood the influence other people can have on our sense of acceptance, identity and belonging. Even Peter, the “rock”, fell into wrong thinking and living because he prioritized what people would think about him if he exercised his freedom, bought by the precious blood of Jesus. The key to resisting false teaching and wrong living perpetrated by influential people is to stand firmly in our identity as being fully approved by God—this grace won for us by Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. When we understand the richness of our relationship with God, that we have his full favour and approval, we will not fall victim to the fear of man or the fear of rejection that manifests as people-pleasing. Reflect: What sort of pressures do you face in today’s culture? Are you prone to people-pleasing? How does today’s reading challenge you? What are some ways you can practically lean into God’s approval? Pray: Precious Jesus, thank you for the sacrifice you made to buy my freedom and to restore my relationship to Father God. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that empowers me to live a life pleasing to you. Teach me more about why your approval of me trumps everything else. Help me to bask in your delight of me instead of falling victim to the pressures and influences of this world. Amen. Song: https://youtu.be/bDnA_coA168 “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
2 Corinthians 12: 9-10 2 Corinthians 11-13 (Psalm 4) Observe
Interpret Our biggest weakness is our dependence on our own strength; our self-sufficiency. It seems that this early church is being lured by the appearance of strength and the appeal of ‘super-apostles’ who teach a false gospel (11: 1-5). Paul in contrast, who seems not to be an eloquent speaker, simply came in humility and truth (11: 6). Paul then details a quite incredible list of his own qualifications that demonstrate an amazing strength, spirit of endurance and motivation of love (11: 16-33). He truly is a ‘super-apostle’ who would prefer not to promote himself but Christ. However, because the Church is being drawn to the false light of human appeal he declares his credentials. Paul goes one step further though. He explains that his real boast is in his weakness as this is where Jesus’ grace and power is truly revealed. Paul suffered from some form of physical ailment (much debated) that he asked the Lord to take away. God’s direction was that it remain, so that Paul trusted God and not his own strength. God’s light shines most truly in the broken vessels of our humble submission to Him (2 Cor. 4: 7). Towards the end of this letter Paul encourages the Church to truly repent and turn away from sinful ways that he has previously spoken to them over (12: 20-21). It seems that a focus on false apostles and their teaching has drawn them away from their relationship with God. Instead he calls them to examine themselves and faith in light of the truth and to be united (13) Application Coincidentally I touched on part of these passages in my sermon on the 7th November (click here). The lure of human strength and self-sufficiency in ourselves and towards others is the root cause of many a conflict and failing. Essentially it is pride; the belief that we know better than God our creator and can do better on our own. In this state of need and rebellion God will often work through difficulties and suffering to wean us off ourselves so that we place our trust in Him. Not only do we find that His grace is sufficient for all our needs, this reliance on God causes His light to shine out of us towards others. Faith magnifies God’s grace. For us personally we suddenly find a strength beyond ours and an ability to rejoice in God despite our circumstances. Wonderful truths for our times of challenge and risks of division. The hymn that I have chosen for today was written by George Matheson a Scottish preacher. He was known for his life of love and sacrifice despite the huge ‘thorn in his side’ of blindness. He wrote this hymn during a period of time which he described as, “the most severe mental suffering.” Please listen to and read the words carefully and marvel at God’s grace. The Question of Application Who do we trust most of all: ourselves; others; or God? Who do we seek to glorify most of all: ourselves; others; or God? Prayer God of grace and love enable us to rejoice! By your grace and in your power may we strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind and live in peace. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen From 2 Corinthians 13: 11-14 Praise O Love that wilt not let me go Text: Psalm 3
Observe: Today, I’d like to share with you my thoughts on Psalm 3. King David wrote it as he was fleeing Jerusalem ahead of a rebellion lead by his own son, Absalom. 1 Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! 2 Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.” 3 But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. 4 I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain. 5 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. 6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side. 7 Arise, Lord! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked. 8 From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people. Interpret: The story of King David and his son Absalom is a tragic one. It’s the story of a father’s love and a son’s rebellion. Psalm 3 was written by David at a particularly stormy time in their relationship which eventually ends very badly. In time, King David comes to the sad realization that his son’s behavior was just a reflection of his own sins. You can read their whole story in 2nd Samuel. From the time Absalom returned from Hebron to Jerusalem, he quietly plotted against his father, subtly currying favour with the people, biding his time until, in an act of deception and betrayal, Absalom deposed his father, causing David to flee from his kingdom and his throne. Psalm 3 records the desperate cries of a father’s heart pierced by the betrayal of his much loved son. As David flees with his remaining faithful followers, the magnitude of his loss weighs heavily on his heart and mind. The accusations of his enemies ring in his ears, “There is no salvation for him in God” (Ps 3:2). He has been forced from his throne even though the Lord himself said, “I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill” (Ps 2:6). He began to doubt whether God would still rescue him. Perhaps his accusers were right. Perhaps David had sinned so greatly that he no longer found favor with God. Perhaps he was utterly forsaken and this would be the end of his life, fleeing from his own son, Absalom. But this wasn’t the first time King David had feared for his life. He had many well-worn paths in his heart for times of distress, and he remembered his only real source of hope, and “cried aloud to the Lord” (Ps 3:4). Emphatically, he pleads, “Arise, O LORD! Save me, O my God!” Wondering if he would ever escape the clutches of his pursuers, David reminds the Lord, “You strike all my enemies on the cheek” (Ps 3:7). Despite his fearfulness over his safety, David was exhausted from fleeing, so he “laid down and slept”, unsure of whether or not the Lord will listen. When he awakes, David praises God, “for the LORD sustained me” (Ps 3:5). In times of crisis even little things, like sleep, become daily opportunities for us to express our gratitude to the One who sustains us. In the uncertainty of our challenges, the Lord is “a shield about me.” In the shame of rejection, the Lord is “my glory.” In the defeat of despair, the Lord is “the lifter of my head” (Ps 3:3). Application: Listening to this story in the life of King David, we are reminded of the story of another King. This King, too, was betrayed by one of his most intimate friends. There were many who rose up against him. He was denied his rightful throne and was mockingly portrayed as, “The King of the Jews.” This King, too, felt forsaken because he was utterly forsaken by His own people. However, when He lay down, He slept in the grave and rose triumphantly because His Father sustained Him. So King Jesus can boldly announce to our heavenly Father, “May your blessing be on your people!” (Ps 3:8). Therefore, as His people, looking to the salvation He brought for us, we can defiantly reply to our accusers, “Deliverance comes from the LORD!” (Ps 3.8). In all our tribulations, the Lord is our blessing. Questions: Have you ever experienced a time when your world came crashing down around you? To whom did you turn in your time of need? Prayer: Heavenly Father, we know that you are our only and ultimate source of help. When events in our lives turn out badly for us, we know that we find our refuge in you. You are our fortress and strong tower against all adversity. On you we rely for all our needs, our comfort, and our salvation. You are more than our Deliverer. You are our ultimate blessing. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Song: Song of Deliverance – Zach Williams |
Preachers BlogIn 2024, each week's blog is a follow-up reflection written by the preceding Sunday’s preacher to dig deeper into the sermon topic and explore engaging discussion questions. Archives
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