Titus 3-Part 2
To malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men. Titus 3:2 NAS
To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men. KJV
LET IT GLOW
Just ask anyone and they would agree that Mom was the best cook around and she loved doing it. Especially at Christmasstime, she would make homemade candies. I'm not talking just a one kind of fudge, but several kinds, along with divinity, pecan logs, peanut brittle, and you name it. She covered the chest freezer top with candies. Not only did our family ooh and aah over it each year, but she would share it with friends, coworkers, neighbors, hairdresser, and people around town. Why, the newspaper even featured her on one whole page. I think that is the kindness we're to show to our neighbors, kindness as sweet as candy, that Paul is talking about in verse 2. The self-giving kind.
Paul mentions four specific ways to showkindness to neighbors. The last two tell us how we are to be:
Gentle, with dignity and reasonableness. Gentle usually refers to our outward conduct, while meekness to inward attitude. Showing consideration for all men describes the spirit of grace. Consideration was a quality of refined leadership, a mark of strength. All men referred to "all people everywhere," regardless of race, religion, political leanings, economic status, occupation, or marital status. All.
Warren Wiersbe said, "The word gentle means 'an attitude of moderation, a sweet reasonableness.' Christians with this quality do not insist on the letter of the law, but are willing to cimpromise where no moral issue is at stake."
I want to be gentle and meek toward my neighbors, all people. In 1 Peter 3:4, Paul was talking to the wives: But let it (adorning) be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishible quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. (NAS)
LET IT GROW
The first ways of showing kindness to our neighbors that Paul mentions, we are NOT to do-malign them. It comes from the Greek word blasphemeo, from which we get the English term "blaspheme." It means to curse, slander, or treat someone with contempt. Blasphemy is any manner of speech that disreagards or disrespects the status of another. Usually it's used with reference to God, but here it's to men also. Name-calling is not a Christian's prerogative and especially of a brother in the Lord.
The second way is to be no brawler. The Greek term behind peaceable lterally means "nonfighter." This person walks away from quarrels; he or she simply decides not to fight, even if fighting could gain an advantage.
[Resources: Swindoll's New Testament Insights on 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus; Liberty Bible Commentary]
David Guzik said, "Speak evil of no one...peaceable...gentle, showing all humility to all men: This is a distinctively Christian kindness, coming not from simple good manners but from knowing who we are and who others are in the heart of Jesus."
LET IT GO
Be gentle and meek, showing kindness to all people.
Watch my words.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
Willingly Practice Piano?
Titus 3-Part 1
Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed. Titus 3:1 NAS
LET IT GLOW
When I was in the second grade, Mom paid for me to take piano lessons. I was so excited at the beginning, that I would daily practice on a paper keyboard, imagining in my head what it sounded like. Then my parents bought me a real piano. It was an old upright with several keys that would not sound. Again, I used my imagination, since it was out of tune. As time went on, it was harder for me to be motivated to practice on that old thing. I should have been grateful for what I had, but after playing on a new piano at my teacher's house, it surely was hard. With that attitude, I often skipped practices.
Then, Mom arranged for me to walk down the hill to my grandpa and step-grandma's house to practice my lessons on her piano. It was a nicer piano, which had all keys working. But that became bothersome as time went on. I didn't want to walk down to their house, practice thirty minutes, and walk back uphill five days a week. During the summer, my sister made me go. (Mom had a job.) I wasn't very willing, needless to say. In fact, one time I hid outside until I thought 30 minutes had passed and came inside. Of course it was probably only a few minutes, so she knew I didn't go. I lied when my sister asked if I had practiced. Eventually, the truth came out. What's it profit if you don't practice willingly and not have to be made to do it? Eventually, I quit piano lessons. Later, I regreted it. I practiced hard when I took the required music courses for my elementary degree in college. I even became good enough to fill in for our church pianist. (I wonder how good I would have been if I had only continued willingly to practice throughout my childhood.)
Paul was telling Titus, in this verse, to remind Christians to be subject to some people in authority.
Liberty Bible Commentary says,"This is in the middle voice and means 'put oneself' with the idea of doing it willingly and not being made to do it."
The rulers and those in authority refered to the king and civil authority. KJV uses the words "principalities" and "powers", obey "magistrates." They represented the offices of government and those who occupied them. Christians were, and are, to completely, and submissively obey. Not just respect, but compliance with their laws and directives. (Swindoll)
Sometimes I find this hard, don't you?
LET IT GROW
Remember, Nero was the ruler in the Roman Empire during Paul's time.
Do I treat others the way I want to be treated, or treat them like they treat me?
The believer's sphere of influence for good ought to be felt in every realm. Joseph, Daniel, and Moses are good examples of this. (Falwell)
Paul called for obedience and urged believers to be prepared to do good works. (Swindoll)
Warren Wiersbe, in his book, Be Faithful, said, "Christians were often looked on with suspicion in the Roman Empire because their conduct was so different and they met in private meetings for worship (1 Peter 2 & 3). It was important that they abe good citizens without compromising the faith. Ready to every good work means cooperating in those matters that involve the whole community. Our heavenly citizenship does not absolve us from responsibilities as citizens on earth."
Do I willingly do things in my community as a witness for Christ, or do I have to be told to do it? Sounds like "Love your neighbor" to me.
The wisemen were seeking the newborn King of the Jews so they could worship Him. I'm sure they did it quite willingly, without being made to do it. Do I have the same attitude?
LET IT GO
Do I have prejudices I need to let go?
Obey the laws of my land without compromising God's Word and my faith.
Willingly do it with good works.
Respect those in authority.
Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed. Titus 3:1 NAS
LET IT GLOW
When I was in the second grade, Mom paid for me to take piano lessons. I was so excited at the beginning, that I would daily practice on a paper keyboard, imagining in my head what it sounded like. Then my parents bought me a real piano. It was an old upright with several keys that would not sound. Again, I used my imagination, since it was out of tune. As time went on, it was harder for me to be motivated to practice on that old thing. I should have been grateful for what I had, but after playing on a new piano at my teacher's house, it surely was hard. With that attitude, I often skipped practices.
Then, Mom arranged for me to walk down the hill to my grandpa and step-grandma's house to practice my lessons on her piano. It was a nicer piano, which had all keys working. But that became bothersome as time went on. I didn't want to walk down to their house, practice thirty minutes, and walk back uphill five days a week. During the summer, my sister made me go. (Mom had a job.) I wasn't very willing, needless to say. In fact, one time I hid outside until I thought 30 minutes had passed and came inside. Of course it was probably only a few minutes, so she knew I didn't go. I lied when my sister asked if I had practiced. Eventually, the truth came out. What's it profit if you don't practice willingly and not have to be made to do it? Eventually, I quit piano lessons. Later, I regreted it. I practiced hard when I took the required music courses for my elementary degree in college. I even became good enough to fill in for our church pianist. (I wonder how good I would have been if I had only continued willingly to practice throughout my childhood.)
Paul was telling Titus, in this verse, to remind Christians to be subject to some people in authority.
The The MacArthur Bible Commentary had this to say:In his closing remarks, Paul admonished Titus to remind believers under his care of their attitudes toward:
- the unsaved rulers and people in general (verses 1-2),
- their previous state as unbelievers lost in sin (verse 3),
- of their gracious salvation through Jesus Christ (verse 4-7),
- of their righteous testimony to the unsaved world (verse 8),
- and their responsibility to oppose false teachers and factious members withing the church (verses 9-11).
Liberty Bible Commentary says,"This is in the middle voice and means 'put oneself' with the idea of doing it willingly and not being made to do it."
The rulers and those in authority refered to the king and civil authority. KJV uses the words "principalities" and "powers", obey "magistrates." They represented the offices of government and those who occupied them. Christians were, and are, to completely, and submissively obey. Not just respect, but compliance with their laws and directives. (Swindoll)
Sometimes I find this hard, don't you?
LET IT GROW
Remember, Nero was the ruler in the Roman Empire during Paul's time.
Swindoll's New Testament Insights on 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus states:Nero can be described as thoroughly pagan; morally backrupt; cruel, oppressive, murderous, unjust, homosexual, sadistic; corrupt to the core. Rather than elevate God in the minds of pagan cultures, and instead of winning respect and admiration as His covenant people, Jews provoked hatred. Christianity, then considered a sect of Judaism, risked perpetuating the same counterproductive tension. A church cannot effectively evangelize a community while treating its citizens with contempt.
Do I treat others the way I want to be treated, or treat them like they treat me?
The believer's sphere of influence for good ought to be felt in every realm. Joseph, Daniel, and Moses are good examples of this. (Falwell)
Paul called for obedience and urged believers to be prepared to do good works. (Swindoll)
Warren Wiersbe, in his book, Be Faithful, said, "Christians were often looked on with suspicion in the Roman Empire because their conduct was so different and they met in private meetings for worship (1 Peter 2 & 3). It was important that they abe good citizens without compromising the faith. Ready to every good work means cooperating in those matters that involve the whole community. Our heavenly citizenship does not absolve us from responsibilities as citizens on earth."
Do I willingly do things in my community as a witness for Christ, or do I have to be told to do it? Sounds like "Love your neighbor" to me.
The wisemen were seeking the newborn King of the Jews so they could worship Him. I'm sure they did it quite willingly, without being made to do it. Do I have the same attitude?
LET IT GO
Do I have prejudices I need to let go?
Obey the laws of my land without compromising God's Word and my faith.
Willingly do it with good works.
Respect those in authority.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Sheep and Shepherds
Titus 2-Part 9
These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
Titus 2:15 NAS
These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee. (KJV)
LET IT GLOW
I recall one time that I went to the house of my brother-in-laws' parents house. On that particular day, they were working sheep, sheering the wool and giving them shots. It was the first time I had ever been around real live sheep. At first, my impression of sheep was how pretty, small, and sweet an animal they were. However, the longer I was around them, I learned that they could run faster than I could, were strong when they butted their head, and would go their own way if not corraled.
The Lord referred to us as sheep in His fold. I have the same qualities as those sheep did. I need a shepherd to lead me, show me my rebellion and disobedience, and keep me going God's way. He provides a shepherd for each church flock or herd, whichever is correct, for that reason.
I think of the night angels came to shepherds in the field, watching over their flock by night. It was to these lowly shepherds that the Savior was revealed. They actually got to see Him. It was one time event.
Do I pray for my shepherd as he leads our congregation of sheep?
Titus was pastoring a church in Crete. Paul told Titus to not let any one despise, disregard him.What does that mean?
Dispise means to set one's self in thought beyond (exalt one's self in thought above) a person or thing, according to Thayer's Lexicon.
Webster's Dictionary defines despise as "to look down upon."
Young's Concordance says despise, in Greek is oligoreo, means "to care litttle for."
Philippians 2:4 in New American Standard Bible states Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
Do I think myself better than others? Do I care little for someone in particular? Do I criticize others? Am I looking out for another's best interest? Ouch! What was Jesus' way? LOVE for the sheep.
LET IT GROW
Paul explains how the pastor should convey these divine truths using three words: speak, exhort, and reprove.
1. Speak.
Paul tells Titus to speak with all authority. God's man must be authoritative, for Jesus was (Matt. 7:29),
but the scribes weren't.
These three verbs identify the need for proclamaion, application, and correction by the Word of God.
(MacArthur)
Charles Swindoll said, "Let the lessons of grace flow through casual, authentic conversation with
individuals as you build relationships with them. These interactions shouldn't become ad hoc sermons or
occasions for formal instruction. simply be yourself-transparent and natural."
2. Exhort.
"To enjoin a thing by exhorting; comforting and encouraging," that is what Thayer's Lexicon says exhort
means.
Paul tells Titus to dedicate himself to expository preaching. Even though it requires many hours of study,
the message isn't built upon human wisdom. Messages are timeless principles that emerge during study so
the it is God's message.Study well and remain open to the Holy Spirit's leading during preparation, then
the applications will almost write themselves. (Swindoll)
3. Reprove.
Commit yourself to gentle, yet firm confrontation of error wherever it appears. Reproof doesn't imply
being contentious, tactless, or heavy-handed. If you're careful to preserve the dignity of a man or woman
in error, your correction will bypass his or her defenses. If you are gentle and humble, the reproof can be
effective. Then, follow up soon afterward with a sincere and encouraging affirmation; who know, you may
win a friend for life. (Swindoll)
What about my circle of influence? Am I demonstrating grace? Am I living the truth through my actions (speaking, exhorting, correcting)? Do I speak the truth? Am I encouraging to others? Do I confront a wrong done by a person with gentleness and humility?
LET IT GO
Don't look down on others; love them instead.
Graciously convey the truth.
Share God's gift of grace.
These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
Titus 2:15 NAS
These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee. (KJV)
LET IT GLOW
I recall one time that I went to the house of my brother-in-laws' parents house. On that particular day, they were working sheep, sheering the wool and giving them shots. It was the first time I had ever been around real live sheep. At first, my impression of sheep was how pretty, small, and sweet an animal they were. However, the longer I was around them, I learned that they could run faster than I could, were strong when they butted their head, and would go their own way if not corraled.
The Lord referred to us as sheep in His fold. I have the same qualities as those sheep did. I need a shepherd to lead me, show me my rebellion and disobedience, and keep me going God's way. He provides a shepherd for each church flock or herd, whichever is correct, for that reason.
I think of the night angels came to shepherds in the field, watching over their flock by night. It was to these lowly shepherds that the Savior was revealed. They actually got to see Him. It was one time event.
Do I pray for my shepherd as he leads our congregation of sheep?
Titus was pastoring a church in Crete. Paul told Titus to not let any one despise, disregard him.What does that mean?
Dispise means to set one's self in thought beyond (exalt one's self in thought above) a person or thing, according to Thayer's Lexicon.
Webster's Dictionary defines despise as "to look down upon."
Young's Concordance says despise, in Greek is oligoreo, means "to care litttle for."
Philippians 2:4 in New American Standard Bible states Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
Do I think myself better than others? Do I care little for someone in particular? Do I criticize others? Am I looking out for another's best interest? Ouch! What was Jesus' way? LOVE for the sheep.
LET IT GROW
Paul explains how the pastor should convey these divine truths using three words: speak, exhort, and reprove.
1. Speak.
Paul tells Titus to speak with all authority. God's man must be authoritative, for Jesus was (Matt. 7:29),
but the scribes weren't.
These three verbs identify the need for proclamaion, application, and correction by the Word of God.
(MacArthur)
Charles Swindoll said, "Let the lessons of grace flow through casual, authentic conversation with
individuals as you build relationships with them. These interactions shouldn't become ad hoc sermons or
occasions for formal instruction. simply be yourself-transparent and natural."
2. Exhort.
"To enjoin a thing by exhorting; comforting and encouraging," that is what Thayer's Lexicon says exhort
means.
Paul tells Titus to dedicate himself to expository preaching. Even though it requires many hours of study,
the message isn't built upon human wisdom. Messages are timeless principles that emerge during study so
the it is God's message.Study well and remain open to the Holy Spirit's leading during preparation, then
the applications will almost write themselves. (Swindoll)
3. Reprove.
Commit yourself to gentle, yet firm confrontation of error wherever it appears. Reproof doesn't imply
being contentious, tactless, or heavy-handed. If you're careful to preserve the dignity of a man or woman
in error, your correction will bypass his or her defenses. If you are gentle and humble, the reproof can be
effective. Then, follow up soon afterward with a sincere and encouraging affirmation; who know, you may
win a friend for life. (Swindoll)
What about my circle of influence? Am I demonstrating grace? Am I living the truth through my actions (speaking, exhorting, correcting)? Do I speak the truth? Am I encouraging to others? Do I confront a wrong done by a person with gentleness and humility?
LET IT GO
Don't look down on others; love them instead.
Graciously convey the truth.
Share God's gift of grace.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Redeeming Gift Cards
Titus 2-Part 8
Who (Christ Jesus) gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. Titus 2:14 NAS
Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people zealous of good works. KJV
LET IT GLOW
Throughout the years I have bought loved ones gift cards for part of their Christmas gift. They were redeemed at a particular store or restaurant. Only that place would acknowledge that the price had been previously paid. Then it was of no cost to the holder of the gift card.
Jesus has done the same for His believers. He has redeemed us, paying the price for our salvation to be free to us. And what a price He did pay!
In our previous lessons, we've talked about the grace of God which is given to us in a gracious gift of salvation. It is through this generous gift of grace that we are sancified, glorified, and redeemed. Today's scripture focuses on grace as redemption.
Why did Jesus humble Himself and become a man? For one thing, it was so He might die for our sins and redeem us from all iniquity. Jesus freely gave Himself for each of us. I th;ink you will agree that no greater gift has been given.
We were a slave to sin, to evil, compelled to do its bidding, but Jesus purchased us out of that slavery. We are now owned by a new master.
Jesus took my place and paid the penalty for my sin so that I would be freed from slavery to sin. What an awesome, amazing, generous, and glorious gift!
Jesus paid the price so we would be His possession. He now owns me. He is my Master. I am to go to Him for directions on how, when, and where to serve Him each day. Unfortunately, there are times that I serve my old nature, myself, yielding to the lusts of this world, the lust of my flesh. Then I come back to the feet of Jesus repenting.
LET IT GROW
Looking at the rest of this verse, it says that Jesus gave Himself so He could purify for Himself a people.
Purify means to free from the guilt of sin. My slate is clean. I couldn't do it for myself, but Jesus could and did.
Why did Jesus die for me? So I would no longer be guilty of sin and would be a part of His peculiar people who are zealous for good deeds.
KJV uses the word peculiar to describe His people. It refers to those selected by God from the other nations for his own possession. (Thayer's Lexicon)
God selected you and me to be a part of His special group, the elite, His chosen ones, His own possession, His peculiar people.
Of all the people He could have chosen to be His child, God chose me and you. We didn't do anything to deserve it. He just chose us. Now if that doesn't ring your bell, what will friend? Every once in a while it's good to be reminded. Such love!
This word peculiar is found in other Scriptures:
Deuteronomy 14:2 says For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God, and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.
Exodus 19:5 says Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine.
1 Peter 2:9 says But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
I, for one, am glad to be called a peculiar person, to be God's posession. Aren't you? (Of course, without knowing the definition of the word, by just looking at me, some might call me peculiar anyway.) :0)
How wonderful is the grace of redemption! Do I act like God's special possession? Can people tell I'm a Christian by watching me? By listening to me? Are my deeds acts of love?
LET IT GO
Act like a redeemed, purified, peculiar person.
Ask the Master daily for instructions concerning how He wants me to serve Him..
Serve the Lord with zeal, enthusiasm.
Who (Christ Jesus) gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. Titus 2:14 NAS
Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people zealous of good works. KJV
LET IT GLOW
Throughout the years I have bought loved ones gift cards for part of their Christmas gift. They were redeemed at a particular store or restaurant. Only that place would acknowledge that the price had been previously paid. Then it was of no cost to the holder of the gift card.
Jesus has done the same for His believers. He has redeemed us, paying the price for our salvation to be free to us. And what a price He did pay!
In our previous lessons, we've talked about the grace of God which is given to us in a gracious gift of salvation. It is through this generous gift of grace that we are sancified, glorified, and redeemed. Today's scripture focuses on grace as redemption.
Why did Jesus humble Himself and become a man? For one thing, it was so He might die for our sins and redeem us from all iniquity. Jesus freely gave Himself for each of us. I th;ink you will agree that no greater gift has been given.
We were a slave to sin, to evil, compelled to do its bidding, but Jesus purchased us out of that slavery. We are now owned by a new master.
Liberty Bible Commentary states this:The word redeem, lutroo in Greek, means "to set free by the payment of a ransom." The believer is now set free from sin to become zealous of good works. This is why He humbled Himself (Phil.2:5-8) and became a man so He, the God-man, might suffer and die for our sins and redeem us from all iniquity.
Jesus took my place and paid the penalty for my sin so that I would be freed from slavery to sin. What an awesome, amazing, generous, and glorious gift!
Jesus paid the price so we would be His possession. He now owns me. He is my Master. I am to go to Him for directions on how, when, and where to serve Him each day. Unfortunately, there are times that I serve my old nature, myself, yielding to the lusts of this world, the lust of my flesh. Then I come back to the feet of Jesus repenting.
LET IT GROW
Looking at the rest of this verse, it says that Jesus gave Himself so He could purify for Himself a people.
Purify means to free from the guilt of sin. My slate is clean. I couldn't do it for myself, but Jesus could and did.
Why did Jesus die for me? So I would no longer be guilty of sin and would be a part of His peculiar people who are zealous for good deeds.
KJV uses the word peculiar to describe His people. It refers to those selected by God from the other nations for his own possession. (Thayer's Lexicon)
God selected you and me to be a part of His special group, the elite, His chosen ones, His own possession, His peculiar people.
Of all the people He could have chosen to be His child, God chose me and you. We didn't do anything to deserve it. He just chose us. Now if that doesn't ring your bell, what will friend? Every once in a while it's good to be reminded. Such love!
This word peculiar is found in other Scriptures:
Deuteronomy 14:2 says For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God, and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.
Exodus 19:5 says Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine.
1 Peter 2:9 says But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
I, for one, am glad to be called a peculiar person, to be God's posession. Aren't you? (Of course, without knowing the definition of the word, by just looking at me, some might call me peculiar anyway.) :0)
Swindoll's New Testament Insights on 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus states:Since we are under a new master, good deeds arise from within, driven by zeal, which was a "passionate commitment" or "enthusiasm." The Puritans refer to this dramatic internal change of motivations as "the power of the new affections." Similarly, new affections displace the old, and the Christian gradually grows in his or her respect and reverence for the Lord. Transformed from within, we act on our desires to please the Father with good deeds, just like His Son. In a real sense, we outgrow our desire for sin because the grace of God has saved us, continually sanctifies us, and has predestined us for glory (Rom. 8:28-39).
How wonderful is the grace of redemption! Do I act like God's special possession? Can people tell I'm a Christian by watching me? By listening to me? Are my deeds acts of love?
LET IT GO
Act like a redeemed, purified, peculiar person.
Ask the Master daily for instructions concerning how He wants me to serve Him..
Serve the Lord with zeal, enthusiasm.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Hope-An Assured Expectation
Titus 2-Part 7
Looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus. Titus 2:13
LET IT GLOW
As we drove six hours to get to my parents' home, I looked forward to their greeting us. I most assuredly expected Mom or Dad or both to greet us at the door, which happened most times. This particular time, they both came out onto the porch to greet the four of us. It was the last time this happened with Dad. He greeted me with a big bear hug and kiss. (You need to understand that he rarely showed affection.) It is forever embedded in my memory as-what words can I use-a greeting-of-all-greetings, love over flowing expressed, an exciting time, a welcome home. (Excuse me while I blow my nose and wipe my tears away.) Little did I know that it would be the last visit I had with Dad, for two months later he passed away.
Oh, the gracious gifts that God has given. So far we have discussed grace by salvation, grace through sanctification, and today we will discuss grace in glorification. As I have written before, salvation reflects on the past, sanctification considers the present, but glorification anticipates the future.
Verse 13 reminds us that we are "looking for that blessed hope."
Hope used in the Greek means "an assured expectation."
"Paul uses this term in a specific way to describe the future day when Jesus returns to rule the world and to renovate it to His liking," stated Charles Swindoll.
Webster's Dictionary defines assured as having been made sure or certain; made secure or stable; made confident, convinced.
I found some scriptures using the word hope:
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)
I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. (Ps. 130:5)
For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope. (Eccl. 9:4)
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. (Ps. 31:24)
(Love) Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. (1Cor.13:7)
Are my expectations of Jesus' Second coming assured? In my heart, am I certain, for sure, convinced of His return? Yes, I am. How about you?
1 Corinthians 15:19 says If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
There is so much more to come, friend. This life is not all there is. It will be a glorious appearing when Jesus returns. Am I ready?
LET IT GROW
There is only one Savior. The Old Testament people expected Him. He did come as Isaiah the prophet expected. It happened in God's time. Everything was planned out. Then Mary expected Him as a baby. After nine months, He came. The Pharisees expected Him to come as a king. Their expectations were not met because He came as a servant.
What are my expectations of Jesus? Am I meeting His expectation of me?
What are we expecting this Christmas?
LET IT GO
Hold onto that blessed hope of the glorious appearing of Jesus.
Christ is my hope.
Looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus. Titus 2:13
LET IT GLOW
As we drove six hours to get to my parents' home, I looked forward to their greeting us. I most assuredly expected Mom or Dad or both to greet us at the door, which happened most times. This particular time, they both came out onto the porch to greet the four of us. It was the last time this happened with Dad. He greeted me with a big bear hug and kiss. (You need to understand that he rarely showed affection.) It is forever embedded in my memory as-what words can I use-a greeting-of-all-greetings, love over flowing expressed, an exciting time, a welcome home. (Excuse me while I blow my nose and wipe my tears away.) Little did I know that it would be the last visit I had with Dad, for two months later he passed away.
Oh, the gracious gifts that God has given. So far we have discussed grace by salvation, grace through sanctification, and today we will discuss grace in glorification. As I have written before, salvation reflects on the past, sanctification considers the present, but glorification anticipates the future.
Verse 13 reminds us that we are "looking for that blessed hope."
Hope used in the Greek means "an assured expectation."
"Paul uses this term in a specific way to describe the future day when Jesus returns to rule the world and to renovate it to His liking," stated Charles Swindoll.
Webster's Dictionary defines assured as having been made sure or certain; made secure or stable; made confident, convinced.
I found some scriptures using the word hope:
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)
I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. (Ps. 130:5)
For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope. (Eccl. 9:4)
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. (Ps. 31:24)
(Love) Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. (1Cor.13:7)
Are my expectations of Jesus' Second coming assured? In my heart, am I certain, for sure, convinced of His return? Yes, I am. How about you?
1 Corinthians 15:19 says If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
There is so much more to come, friend. This life is not all there is. It will be a glorious appearing when Jesus returns. Am I ready?
LET IT GROW
Liberty Bible Commentary states this:"The Greek construction here is fantastic for the construction makes the blessed hope and glorious appearing to be one and the same thing. The one true hope and expectation of the believer longs for that day (2Tim.4:8).Then the same rule of construction makes the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ to be one and the same thing as well. This is a strong statement of the deity of Christ. Jesus is God, not simply like God or godly, but He is God, for indeed, 'the Word was God' (John 1:1).
There is only one Savior. The Old Testament people expected Him. He did come as Isaiah the prophet expected. It happened in God's time. Everything was planned out. Then Mary expected Him as a baby. After nine months, He came. The Pharisees expected Him to come as a king. Their expectations were not met because He came as a servant.
What are my expectations of Jesus? Am I meeting His expectation of me?
What are we expecting this Christmas?
LET IT GO
Hold onto that blessed hope of the glorious appearing of Jesus.
Christ is my hope.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
What Can I Give?
Titus 2-Part 6
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age.
Titus 2:11-12 NAS
LET IT GLOW
What can I give to Jesus this Christmas season? I give gifts to others, but what about Him? Its answer can to me in a song, "Little Drummer Boy."Here are some words that helped me find the answer:
I am a poor boy too; I have no gifts to bring, that's fit to give our King; Shall I play for You, on my drum? I played my drum for Him; I played my best for Him; Then He smiled at me, me and my drum. In the song, the only thing the boy had to give was playing his drum for the King. He played his best for Him. Was it acceptable? A smile told him yes.
Am I, playing my best for Him, living my best for Him, doing my best for Him? What can I give to the One who created all things, possesses all things, lacks for nothing, the King of Kings? The only thing I can give to my Savior is myself. He so graciously gave Himself to me. Isn't me what He wants? All of me. Is that what pleases Jesus? I think so, friend. Will you join me in surrendering our wills, our ways, ourselves to the New Born King?
In our previous lesson, we talked about the grace of God which is given to us as a gracious gift of salvation. Today we'll find another gracious gift-sanctification.
"Salvation is not only a change in position (set free from the slavery of sin), but it is also a change in attitude, appetite, ambition, and action. The same grace that redeems us also reforms our lives and makes us godly.
"Teaching" has the idea of "disciplining." We are disciplined by God's grace, trained to be the kind of people that glorify Him," says Warren Wiersbe in his book Be Faithful.
Using Swindoll's New Testament Insights on 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus as a reference, he explains:
In the spiritual life of the believer, salvation occurs in the past, a moment in time of rebirth from above
(John 3:3-8). Sanctification is a theological term which refers to the present condition of the believer: set apart for God's purpose. Both are God's doing on our behalf, not something we do for ourselves
(Rom. 8:28-29). Although, the Lord didn't leave us to carry out this supernatural task on our own. His grace not only saves, but it instructs us. It instructs us as a "little child." The term used here is paideuo, in the Greek. It places us in the role of the ignorant, like helpless tots receiving instruction from a loving parent. From Him we learn how to live, long before we're ready for book-learning.
Grace teaches us believers how to turn away from futile, destructive behavior to pursue that which is:
When is this to take place? In this present age believers are to live out this standard of conduct. Christians are not to live like it or for it. Christ redeemed us from this evil ag (Gal.1:4) so we must not be conformed to it (Rom 12:1-2). Neither should we walk according to its standard (Eph.2:2). We have tasted the powers of "the coming age" (Heb.6:5 NIV), and we shouldn't desire to cultivate the present age with its shallowness and godlessness. (Wiersbe)
LET IT GROW
The NIV says verse 12 this way: It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.
Am I saying "no" to ungodliness and worldly desirses, then saying "yes" to Jesus? Have you said yes to Jesus, making Him your Savior? I did 41 years ago. Now, the current question is, "Do I daily say yes to Jesus or am I living for me?"
Instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires.
Ungodliness in the Greek is asebeia, which refers to a lifestyle of irreverence, which inevitably breeds contempt for God. Such behavior that despises God we learn to reject.
Worldly desires refers to those things the Enemy covets-sinful by definition-or to the desperate, idolatrous kind of longing that leads to sin. World represents everything that isn't "in Christ" or of Christ.
Grace trains us to avoid desiring the things that the world desires and to avoid craving anything with worldlike motives. Grace instructs believers to enjoy wealth as a gift from God, while the world craves wealth as a means of power, self-gratification, or validation.
Yes to Jesus or yes to the world. Which am I saying yes to?
LET IT GO
Let go of the worldly desires and ungodliness, then follow Jesus.
I give myself to you Lord Jesus. Use my life for Your purpose and Your glory.
Strive to live a self-controlled, righteous, and godly life.
Share the grace of God with others this Christmas season.
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age.
Titus 2:11-12 NAS
LET IT GLOW
What can I give to Jesus this Christmas season? I give gifts to others, but what about Him? Its answer can to me in a song, "Little Drummer Boy."Here are some words that helped me find the answer:
I am a poor boy too; I have no gifts to bring, that's fit to give our King; Shall I play for You, on my drum? I played my drum for Him; I played my best for Him; Then He smiled at me, me and my drum. In the song, the only thing the boy had to give was playing his drum for the King. He played his best for Him. Was it acceptable? A smile told him yes.
Am I, playing my best for Him, living my best for Him, doing my best for Him? What can I give to the One who created all things, possesses all things, lacks for nothing, the King of Kings? The only thing I can give to my Savior is myself. He so graciously gave Himself to me. Isn't me what He wants? All of me. Is that what pleases Jesus? I think so, friend. Will you join me in surrendering our wills, our ways, ourselves to the New Born King?
In our previous lesson, we talked about the grace of God which is given to us as a gracious gift of salvation. Today we'll find another gracious gift-sanctification.
"Salvation is not only a change in position (set free from the slavery of sin), but it is also a change in attitude, appetite, ambition, and action. The same grace that redeems us also reforms our lives and makes us godly.
"Teaching" has the idea of "disciplining." We are disciplined by God's grace, trained to be the kind of people that glorify Him," says Warren Wiersbe in his book Be Faithful.
Using Swindoll's New Testament Insights on 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus as a reference, he explains:
In the spiritual life of the believer, salvation occurs in the past, a moment in time of rebirth from above
(John 3:3-8). Sanctification is a theological term which refers to the present condition of the believer: set apart for God's purpose. Both are God's doing on our behalf, not something we do for ourselves
(Rom. 8:28-29). Although, the Lord didn't leave us to carry out this supernatural task on our own. His grace not only saves, but it instructs us. It instructs us as a "little child." The term used here is paideuo, in the Greek. It places us in the role of the ignorant, like helpless tots receiving instruction from a loving parent. From Him we learn how to live, long before we're ready for book-learning.
Grace teaches us believers how to turn away from futile, destructive behavior to pursue that which is:
- sensible (of sound mind)
- righteous (that which is deemed good in the court of heaven)
- godly (characterized by respect or reverence of God).
When is this to take place? In this present age believers are to live out this standard of conduct. Christians are not to live like it or for it. Christ redeemed us from this evil ag (Gal.1:4) so we must not be conformed to it (Rom 12:1-2). Neither should we walk according to its standard (Eph.2:2). We have tasted the powers of "the coming age" (Heb.6:5 NIV), and we shouldn't desire to cultivate the present age with its shallowness and godlessness. (Wiersbe)
LET IT GROW
The NIV says verse 12 this way: It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.
Am I saying "no" to ungodliness and worldly desirses, then saying "yes" to Jesus? Have you said yes to Jesus, making Him your Savior? I did 41 years ago. Now, the current question is, "Do I daily say yes to Jesus or am I living for me?"
Instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires.
Ungodliness in the Greek is asebeia, which refers to a lifestyle of irreverence, which inevitably breeds contempt for God. Such behavior that despises God we learn to reject.
Worldly desires refers to those things the Enemy covets-sinful by definition-or to the desperate, idolatrous kind of longing that leads to sin. World represents everything that isn't "in Christ" or of Christ.
Grace trains us to avoid desiring the things that the world desires and to avoid craving anything with worldlike motives. Grace instructs believers to enjoy wealth as a gift from God, while the world craves wealth as a means of power, self-gratification, or validation.
Yes to Jesus or yes to the world. Which am I saying yes to?
LET IT GO
Let go of the worldly desires and ungodliness, then follow Jesus.
I give myself to you Lord Jesus. Use my life for Your purpose and Your glory.
Strive to live a self-controlled, righteous, and godly life.
Share the grace of God with others this Christmas season.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Gift Giving
Titus 2-Part 5
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. Titus 2:11 NAS
LET IT GLOW
What gift do I give to each loved one? It's December and my focus is just that-gift giving. Oh the hustle and bustle of it all. We want to find "that" special gift which will make a child squeal, a spouse surprised, children happy, friends smile, and give us that warm feeling of love as the giver. It must be something on "their list" of what will make them happy to receive. I drive from store to store hunting "it" down, prepared to spend whatever is required. Time marches on. What has our society become? What have I become? It's my fault that my focus is on "gift giving" instead of on the greatest gift given to me-salvation. Have I been thankful today for the greatest gift that ever was given?
Verse 11 tells us that the grace of God has appeared.
Love is a kind of grace that appeared when Jesus came to earth in the form of a man. Paul called love the greatest of all Christian attributes in 1 Corinthians 13:13. As the motivation for God to give His gracious gift of salvation to me, so my motivation to give gifts should be love. It's because I have God's love in my heart and I love another person, that's why I give a gift.
The connecting word for begins our verse 11. It links what follows with what has gone before. What it says, in effect, is, to take on this new lifestyle-whatever your station in life, for or because God's grace has appeared. A person who sees, understands, and accepts this grace can't easily go back to his or her former lifestyle. (Shepherd's Notes)
Wonderful grace of Jesus!
His grace appeared as a gift to you and me. Do we accept it or reject it?
LET IT GROW
What has the grace of God brought us? Salvation to all men. It is God's supremely gracious gift to fallen mankind, Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus' blood, body, and very life was sacrificed as death on a cross took it so I wouldn't have to pay for my penalty of sin. His resurrecting power gives us hope for our resurrection when the trumpet is sounded.
What is this gracious gift like?
Am I giving Jesus a gift this Christmas? Will I give myself as a willing gift, a gracious gift, my life, at the foot of the cross? Will I give His gift of love to others? Will I show grace to those who aren't gracious to me?
LET IT GO
Receive God's grace and give God's grace.
Give the gift of love this season.
Share God's gift of salvation to those without it.
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. Titus 2:11 NAS
LET IT GLOW
What gift do I give to each loved one? It's December and my focus is just that-gift giving. Oh the hustle and bustle of it all. We want to find "that" special gift which will make a child squeal, a spouse surprised, children happy, friends smile, and give us that warm feeling of love as the giver. It must be something on "their list" of what will make them happy to receive. I drive from store to store hunting "it" down, prepared to spend whatever is required. Time marches on. What has our society become? What have I become? It's my fault that my focus is on "gift giving" instead of on the greatest gift given to me-salvation. Have I been thankful today for the greatest gift that ever was given?
Verse 11 tells us that the grace of God has appeared.
Love is a kind of grace that appeared when Jesus came to earth in the form of a man. Paul called love the greatest of all Christian attributes in 1 Corinthians 13:13. As the motivation for God to give His gracious gift of salvation to me, so my motivation to give gifts should be love. It's because I have God's love in my heart and I love another person, that's why I give a gift.
The connecting word for begins our verse 11. It links what follows with what has gone before. What it says, in effect, is, to take on this new lifestyle-whatever your station in life, for or because God's grace has appeared. A person who sees, understands, and accepts this grace can't easily go back to his or her former lifestyle. (Shepherd's Notes)
Warren Wiersbe, in his book Be Faithful" said this:The emphisis is on grace-God's lavish favor on undeserving sinners. Paul pointed out three wonderful ministries of the grace of God in verses 11-14. Grace redeems us, reforms us, and rewards us. People could not save themselves. God's grace had to bring salvation to lost mankind. This salvation was not discovered by sinners; it appeared to them via the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. God in His grace sent His Son to redeem those in the bondage of sin.
Wonderful grace of Jesus!
In his book, Swindoll's New Testament Insights on 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, he says:A lteral rendering of this phrase is "Appeared the grace of God, salvation to all humanity." the term appeared best translates the Greek term epiphaino, from which we derive our word "epiphany." We might view it as a "eureka!" kind of word, adding an element of delight and surprise to the idea of discovery. Humanity didn't receive grace and salvation after a diligent search, or by pleading for help, or by approaching God. "Appeared the grace of God" by His own initiative, motivated solely by His goodness, despite our unworthiness. The Creator spontaneously and voluntarily reached down to rescue humanity from our own self-imposed, sinful condition.
His grace appeared as a gift to you and me. Do we accept it or reject it?
LET IT GROW
What has the grace of God brought us? Salvation to all men. It is God's supremely gracious gift to fallen mankind, Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus' blood, body, and very life was sacrificed as death on a cross took it so I wouldn't have to pay for my penalty of sin. His resurrecting power gives us hope for our resurrection when the trumpet is sounded.
What is this gracious gift like?
- It is a free gift (to us). Ephesians 2:8-9 says For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it it the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
- It is an undeserved gift. Romans 3:23-24 says For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
- It is a gift with a purpose. 1 Timothy 2:5-6 says For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testifed in due time.
- It is an eternal gift that never stops giving. John 3:16 says For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Am I giving Jesus a gift this Christmas? Will I give myself as a willing gift, a gracious gift, my life, at the foot of the cross? Will I give His gift of love to others? Will I show grace to those who aren't gracious to me?
LET IT GO
Receive God's grace and give God's grace.
Give the gift of love this season.
Share God's gift of salvation to those without it.
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