1 Corinthians 1
Background:
In Paul's time, Corinth was the finest city in Greece. It was a seaport city, the center of industry and trade, the capital of Achaia. It was known for its sexual immorality where a thousand priestesses served in the temple of Aphrodite as sacred prostitutes.
Paul spent 18 months in Corinth (A.D. 50-52). He founded a large congregation of believers on his first missionary journey (Acts 18). Paul wrote the letter from Ehpesus, probably in A.D. 57. He heard about problems that were tearing at the unity of this large body of believers. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians is a problem-solving letter It deals with issues that trouble many churches today. He addressed the letter to Sosthenes and the church.
(Resource: Nelson's Illustrated Bible Handbook)
According to David Guzik's Commentary, Sosthenes may have been the head of a Corinthian synagogue who was beaten because he persecuted Paul.
In Liberty Bible Commentary, Jerry Falwell said,"Sosthenes is the man who had been elected to take his (Crispus, Paul's first convert in Corinth) place, and subsequently, in a display of anit-Semitism in Corinth, had been beaten. Now he appears as a fellow Christian and minister of the gospel."
There were divisions and disputes in the church concerning families breaking up, law suits, immorality, doctrinal disputes, speaking in tongues, customs, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection. This background gives us a better understanding of why Paul wrote the letter and what issues he addresses.
LET IT GLOW
Verse 9 states,"God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord."
John Wesley said,"God is faithful to keep all His promises."
1 Thess.5:24 says," Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it."
How true. God was faithful Noah, saving his household; to Abraham and gave him a son of promise, Isaac; to Isaac, Jacob, Joseph in preserving the Israelites; to Moses in delivering the Hebrews from slavery; to Rahab in rescuing her family from Jericho's destruction; to protect David from his enemies and establish him as king of Israel; to Daniel and the three Hebrews in Babylon. The list goes on.
God has been faithful to me and my family. He keeps His Word. He has provided for us many years now.
"For in Him we live and move and exist," Acts 17:28 states. I'm sure you can testify, also.
Isaiah 46:11b states,"I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it."
Do I look for His faithfulness and unfailing love?
LET IT GROW
Verse 27-29 say,"But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which ar mighty; And the base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence."
Verse 31 says,"That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." (Jeremiah 9:23 is quoted here. Boast is another word used for glory.)
What did God choose? He chose the foolish, the weak, and things which are not.
Falwell said,"The selection of God is designed to bring to silence the wisdom of man. He selects the foolish to shame the wise; the weak to shame the strong; and the "nobodys" to shame the "somebodys."
In his book, The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren said,"Your weaknesses are not an accident. God deliberately allowed them in your life for the purpose of demonstrating his power through you. The Bible is filled with examples of how God loves to use imperfect, ordinary people to do extraordinary things in spite of their weadnesses. A weakness is any limitation that you inherited or have no power to change. It can be a physical, emotional, or intellectual limitation. God is not limited by our limitations. In fact, He enjoys putting His great power into ordinary containers. (2 Cor.4:7) If God only used perfect people, nothing would ever get done. Jacob walked with a limp so he could never run away again. It forced him to lean on God whether he liked it or not. If you want God to bless you and use you greatly, you must be willing to walk with a limp the rest of your life, because God uses weak people."
Thank You Lord for my weaknesses. Use them for Your glory.
LET IT GO
Trust God because He is faithful.
Thank God for my weakness so He can use me for His glory.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Letters-Summary of Romans
Summary of Romans
I received a nice letter from my niece the other day. She told about the things her family had done this past year. I really did enjoy reading about the details of her life. I'm sure glad she included me on her list. Pictures were included, so that was such a bonus. Don't you enjoy reading letters or emails from loved ones? Paul's letter was different, but the same. He sent greetings to specific friends at Rome in chapter 16. Paul taught many basic principles for Christians to live by and obey.
"Each of these Epistles is a teaching letter. In each the Holy Spirit is speaking to communicate, to the belivers of the first century and to us today, basic principles on which our lives together as God's people are to be based," writes Lawrence Richards in Illustrated Bible Handbook.
A personal handwritten letter by Paul, Romans was penned by Tertius and delivered by Phoebe to the Christians at Rome. Paul wrote the letter while on his third missionary journey at Corinth. However, it is also a handwritten letter from God to us. There were so many things for us to pick up along the way.
Charles Swindoll tells us, in his book Coming to Terms with Sin, that the main message from Paul in Romans is "the just live by faith." Paul gives us the fact of sin, good news of salvation, sanctification, divine sovereignty, and Christian service.
Remember, under Nero, great persecution hit the church at Rome during A.D. 64. Pagan historians of the period tell of the torture and execution of "a huge multitude" of Christian martyrs. The gospel of God had been heard and believed in the very center of the empire. (Resource: Illustrated Bible Handbook)
I picked up a few solid rocks along our walk in Romans. How about you? (They can be used for witnessing, also.) Here are just a few:
1. Condemnation
Romans 3:10-There is none righteous, no, not one.
3:12-There is none that doeth good, no, not one.
3:23-For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.
6:23-For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ
our Lord.
2. Justification-the sinner declared righteous by God
Romans 1:17b- The just shall live by faith.
5:8-But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners Christ
died for us.
3. Sanctification-a consistent walk with Christ that has holiness as its goal.
Romans 6:12-Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts
thereof.
8:1-There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who
walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
8:38-39-Nothing shall seperate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our
Lord.
4. Predestination
Romans 8:28-30-And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to
them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow,
he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he
might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did
predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified:
them he also glorified.
5. Restoration
Romans 11:19-Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in.
6. Application
Romans 12:1-2-I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your
bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable
service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that Good and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God.
12:19b-Vengence is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
13:8-Owe no man any thing but to love one another; for he that loveth another hath
fulfilled the law.
14:21-It is good neither to eat flesh, nor the drink wine, nor any thing whereby they
brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.
7. Conclusion
Romans 15:13-Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye
may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
15:6- That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ.
Your life affects those you have contact with, whether you intend it or not. It may be a positive experience or a negative one, but your life will affect others.
I don't think there is anything else to say, but to thank the Lord for encouragement of this book.
Another one of Paul's letters begins tomorrow-1 Corinthians.
I received a nice letter from my niece the other day. She told about the things her family had done this past year. I really did enjoy reading about the details of her life. I'm sure glad she included me on her list. Pictures were included, so that was such a bonus. Don't you enjoy reading letters or emails from loved ones? Paul's letter was different, but the same. He sent greetings to specific friends at Rome in chapter 16. Paul taught many basic principles for Christians to live by and obey.
"Each of these Epistles is a teaching letter. In each the Holy Spirit is speaking to communicate, to the belivers of the first century and to us today, basic principles on which our lives together as God's people are to be based," writes Lawrence Richards in Illustrated Bible Handbook.
A personal handwritten letter by Paul, Romans was penned by Tertius and delivered by Phoebe to the Christians at Rome. Paul wrote the letter while on his third missionary journey at Corinth. However, it is also a handwritten letter from God to us. There were so many things for us to pick up along the way.
Charles Swindoll tells us, in his book Coming to Terms with Sin, that the main message from Paul in Romans is "the just live by faith." Paul gives us the fact of sin, good news of salvation, sanctification, divine sovereignty, and Christian service.
Remember, under Nero, great persecution hit the church at Rome during A.D. 64. Pagan historians of the period tell of the torture and execution of "a huge multitude" of Christian martyrs. The gospel of God had been heard and believed in the very center of the empire. (Resource: Illustrated Bible Handbook)
I picked up a few solid rocks along our walk in Romans. How about you? (They can be used for witnessing, also.) Here are just a few:
1. Condemnation
Romans 3:10-There is none righteous, no, not one.
3:12-There is none that doeth good, no, not one.
3:23-For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.
6:23-For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ
our Lord.
2. Justification-the sinner declared righteous by God
Romans 1:17b- The just shall live by faith.
5:8-But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners Christ
died for us.
3. Sanctification-a consistent walk with Christ that has holiness as its goal.
Romans 6:12-Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts
thereof.
8:1-There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who
walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
8:38-39-Nothing shall seperate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our
Lord.
4. Predestination
Romans 8:28-30-And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to
them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow,
he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he
might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did
predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified:
them he also glorified.
5. Restoration
Romans 11:19-Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in.
6. Application
Romans 12:1-2-I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your
bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable
service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that Good and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God.
12:19b-Vengence is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
13:8-Owe no man any thing but to love one another; for he that loveth another hath
fulfilled the law.
14:21-It is good neither to eat flesh, nor the drink wine, nor any thing whereby they
brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.
7. Conclusion
Romans 15:13-Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye
may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
15:6- That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ.
The Blackabys in their daily devotional book Experiencing God Day-By-Day said:
Your life affects those you have contact with, whether you intend it or not. It may be a positive experience or a negative one, but your life will affect others.
I don't think there is anything else to say, but to thank the Lord for encouragement of this book.
Another one of Paul's letters begins tomorrow-1 Corinthians.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Thanks and Praise
Romans 16
Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began.
But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Romans 16:25-27
LET IT GLOW
While in college, I learned when teaching a lesson, there is the introduction, main points, and the summary. In his letter to the Christians at Rome, Paul is summarizing or concluding it in chapter 16. We see him praising God and thanking people.
Who is the Giver of stability? In verse 25, Paul recognizes that God is the One who has the power to stabilize us. The word establish means "to prop up, make firm, make stable." The ideas is something holding up or supporting something else.
Who is the Source of my support, all believer's support? It is our God. He is my strength and sustainer.
Who is the Revealer of the gospel? God made it known through His Son Jesus, through His Holy Spirit, through His prophets, and through His Word (to us). The Greek term for mystery is similar in meaning to the English word secret. We Gentiles can receive this mystery-personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, not just the Jews.
Who is the Proclaimer to the nations? The Everlasting God made His plan of salvation by faith known to all nations.
Who is the Initiator of obedience? The Lord leads individuals to the "obedience of faith." We share and witness about Jesus, but God saves.
How does Paul describe God in verse 27:
What is the last word in the Book of Romans? Amen is the last word. It expresses the deep conviction that "I believe it is true!" Do I believe what we studied? Definitely. To God be the glory forever. He is awesome!
LET IT GROW
How did Paul show love toward others at the beginning of chapter 16? He showed affection and concern by demonstrating authentic agape love. "Agape love is person-oriented, service-centered, self-sacrificing, and action-prone," states Swindoll.
Paul named 27 people. Titles were associated to 21 of them. Reference is made to greeting or commending a person 19 times. However, I only recognize 3 of those named. How about you? They must have been "behind-the-scene" type of people, but signigicant enough for Paul to mention.
How can we express affection and love to other Christians in an appropriate manner? Swindoll tells us to:
(Reference: Charles Swindoll's book Relating to Others in Love)
What a walk through the Book of Romans this has been. I've enjoyed your input. Although, there is one more lesson to go, the summary. Stay tuned as I recall highlighted scriptures in my Bible and main points of Paul's teachings. Get your walking shoes ready.
LET IT GO
Praise and glory be to my God and King. He is my Strength, Sustainer, Stabilizer, Everlasting, Unique, and Loving Father.
Strive to show Agape love by accepting, serving, esteeming, and loving others.
Thank and praise more.
Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began.
But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Romans 16:25-27
LET IT GLOW
While in college, I learned when teaching a lesson, there is the introduction, main points, and the summary. In his letter to the Christians at Rome, Paul is summarizing or concluding it in chapter 16. We see him praising God and thanking people.
Who is the Giver of stability? In verse 25, Paul recognizes that God is the One who has the power to stabilize us. The word establish means "to prop up, make firm, make stable." The ideas is something holding up or supporting something else.
Who is the Source of my support, all believer's support? It is our God. He is my strength and sustainer.
Who is the Revealer of the gospel? God made it known through His Son Jesus, through His Holy Spirit, through His prophets, and through His Word (to us). The Greek term for mystery is similar in meaning to the English word secret. We Gentiles can receive this mystery-personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, not just the Jews.
Who is the Proclaimer to the nations? The Everlasting God made His plan of salvation by faith known to all nations.
Who is the Initiator of obedience? The Lord leads individuals to the "obedience of faith." We share and witness about Jesus, but God saves.
How does Paul describe God in verse 27:
- His Uniqueness: all-powerful King of the Bible is God alone (Is. 45:5-6)
- His Wisdom: infinitely wise God, supremely intelligent and knows all things; unfathomably perceptive and accurate in His purposes and plans (Rom.11:33-34)
- His Son: the visible manifestation of God; the link between the infinite God and finite man
- His Eternal Glory: the visible manifestation of His character, Jesus Christ; our God is Everlasting and Eternal, without beginning nor end.
What is the last word in the Book of Romans? Amen is the last word. It expresses the deep conviction that "I believe it is true!" Do I believe what we studied? Definitely. To God be the glory forever. He is awesome!
LET IT GROW
How did Paul show love toward others at the beginning of chapter 16? He showed affection and concern by demonstrating authentic agape love. "Agape love is person-oriented, service-centered, self-sacrificing, and action-prone," states Swindoll.
Paul named 27 people. Titles were associated to 21 of them. Reference is made to greeting or commending a person 19 times. However, I only recognize 3 of those named. How about you? They must have been "behind-the-scene" type of people, but signigicant enough for Paul to mention.
How can we express affection and love to other Christians in an appropriate manner? Swindoll tells us to:
- Accept the variety in others. (men, women, couples, singles, mature, young in faith)
- Become a servant of others. (without a spot in the limelight)
- Cultivate expressions of esteem for others. (honor and encourage others with humility)
- Declare your love to others. ((use unimpressive but authentic ways)
(Reference: Charles Swindoll's book Relating to Others in Love)
What a walk through the Book of Romans this has been. I've enjoyed your input. Although, there is one more lesson to go, the summary. Stay tuned as I recall highlighted scriptures in my Bible and main points of Paul's teachings. Get your walking shoes ready.
LET IT GO
Praise and glory be to my God and King. He is my Strength, Sustainer, Stabilizer, Everlasting, Unique, and Loving Father.
Strive to show Agape love by accepting, serving, esteeming, and loving others.
Thank and praise more.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Am I Full?
Romans 15
Am I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Romans 15:14
LET IT GLOW
Am I full? Boy, am I full! Still I am full, two days after Thanksgiving dinner. Now that's talking turkey and the trimmings. What about spiritually? Paul tells us some things to be full of. Let's see what they are.
Paul is talking to the Christians at the church in Rome, but also to us. He says they are:
1. Full of Goodness-characterized by moral excellence in their lifestyles, yielding to the Holy Spirit's
sanctifying work in their lives.
2. Filled with all Knowledge-faithful in executing the truth they had received. They applied what they knew
about Chrisitanity instead of letting it collect dust in their minds and on their
notepads.
3. Admonished one Another-Admonish means "placing something in the mind." The person is led away from
a false way through warning, instruction, reminding, teaching, and encouraging
and his conduct is to be corrected. They were to lovingly confront those in their
midst who were veering off the right path. Proverbs 27:6 says,"Faithful are the
woulnds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy."
(Resource: Charles Swindoll's book Relating to Others in Love)
What am I supposed to be full of ? It's goodness, moral excellence; knowledge, applying what I know;
admonishment, warning others. I got to get busy. How about you? If the Romans could do it, I can do it.
LET IT GROW
KJV of verse 5 states: "Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another, according to Christ Jesus." Verse 7 says,"Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God."
Rick Warren wrote in The Purpose Driven Life:
"Christianity is not a religion or a philosophy, but a relationship and a lifestyle. The core of that lifestyle is thinking of others, as Jesus did, instead of ourselves. Thinking of others is the heart of Christlikeness and the best evidence of spiritual growth. We are to accepting each other, thus glorifying God.
We bring God glory by loving other believers. How does Paul tell us to treat others?
Now to apply.
LET IT GO
Be full of goodness, knowlege, and admonition.
Strive to please others, yet not compromising the Word.
Work toward unity.
Accept others.
Am I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Romans 15:14
LET IT GLOW
Am I full? Boy, am I full! Still I am full, two days after Thanksgiving dinner. Now that's talking turkey and the trimmings. What about spiritually? Paul tells us some things to be full of. Let's see what they are.
Paul is talking to the Christians at the church in Rome, but also to us. He says they are:
1. Full of Goodness-characterized by moral excellence in their lifestyles, yielding to the Holy Spirit's
sanctifying work in their lives.
2. Filled with all Knowledge-faithful in executing the truth they had received. They applied what they knew
about Chrisitanity instead of letting it collect dust in their minds and on their
notepads.
3. Admonished one Another-Admonish means "placing something in the mind." The person is led away from
a false way through warning, instruction, reminding, teaching, and encouraging
and his conduct is to be corrected. They were to lovingly confront those in their
midst who were veering off the right path. Proverbs 27:6 says,"Faithful are the
woulnds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy."
(Resource: Charles Swindoll's book Relating to Others in Love)
What am I supposed to be full of ? It's goodness, moral excellence; knowledge, applying what I know;
admonishment, warning others. I got to get busy. How about you? If the Romans could do it, I can do it.
LET IT GROW
KJV of verse 5 states: "Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another, according to Christ Jesus." Verse 7 says,"Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God."
Rick Warren wrote in The Purpose Driven Life:
"Christianity is not a religion or a philosophy, but a relationship and a lifestyle. The core of that lifestyle is thinking of others, as Jesus did, instead of ourselves. Thinking of others is the heart of Christlikeness and the best evidence of spiritual growth. We are to accepting each other, thus glorifying God.
We bring God glory by loving other believers. How does Paul tell us to treat others?
- By pleasing them (verse 2)
- Being like minded (verse 5)
- By accepting (verse 7)"
Now to apply.
LET IT GO
Be full of goodness, knowlege, and admonition.
Strive to please others, yet not compromising the Word.
Work toward unity.
Accept others.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Considering my Neighbor
Romans 14
Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. So let's stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall.
Romans 14:12-13 NLT
LET IT GLOW
Who are my neighbors? My neighbors are those who live along my country road. But more than that, they are those in whom I come in contact with during each day. What does Paul and the Lord have to say to me in this chapter concerning my neighbor? How do I apply these key verses?
In verse 13b, Paul urges Christians not to turn their "freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."
Even though I am free in Christ, I still must consider my brothers and sisters and not cause them to stumble spiritually and fall into sin. So I need to watch my words and actions making them Christ-like, for I represent Him. Consider my neighbor.
LET IT GROW
Verses 17-19, NLT, state: "For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. So, then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up."
Concerning these verses, Falwell says," The kingdom of God does not consist in observing or not observing days, eating or not eating meats, or any other secondary issues of religious scruples, but in righteousness
(perfect uprightness in our daily walk), peace (with God and brethren), joy (perfect union and intimate love through the Holy Spirit) . The basis of fellowship isn't peripheral matters of eating or drinking but the salvation which both enjoy in Christ."
In Paul's day, the controversy of Christians was over the views about diet and days. Was it right or wrong to eat meat offered to idols and observe to special days?
Today, our decisons are made concerning drinking alcohol, doing drugs, listening to music, watching movies, dancing, smoking tobacco, playing cards, wearing cosmetics, buying cars, homes, translations of the Bible, etc. "Do I?" or "Do I not?", that's the question.
Paul's focus was on serving Christ and others, preaching and teaching the Word. So I need to watch my focus, keeping it on the Word of God, loving my Savior and others.
Henry Blackaby says in his devotional book, Experiencing God Day-By-Day, "A mark of spiritual maturity is a willingness to sacrifice personal comfort in order to strengthen other believers. Paul urges Christians to pursue only activites that promote peace and behavior that builds up others. It involves using all the resources God has given us to ensure growth and peace in the life of a fellow Christian. For Paul, choosing to edify Christians meant refraining from any activity that caused others to stumble."
LET IT GO
Make sure my freedom in Christ does not cause others to stumble and fall into sin.
Base my decisions for participating in activities on pleasing God and not myself, seeking the Holy Spirit's leading.
Encourage others, not judge them.
Love my neighbors more.
Coat my words with love.
Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. So let's stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall.
Romans 14:12-13 NLT
LET IT GLOW
Who are my neighbors? My neighbors are those who live along my country road. But more than that, they are those in whom I come in contact with during each day. What does Paul and the Lord have to say to me in this chapter concerning my neighbor? How do I apply these key verses?
Jerry Falwell states in Liberty Bible Commentary:We must interact with others in a method pleasing to the Lord and not in judging the strong or demeaning the weak. Even though our liberty in Christ may permit us to engage in a certain activity, we nevertheless may not be wise in doing so. Believers must not insist on their liberty in the presence of those whose conscience would be offended. To do so is not to walk in love under the lordship of Christ.
Charles Swindoll said, in his book Relating to Others in Love:"We can successfully traverse the tightrope of liberty when we seek a proper balance between self-control and a love for others.
In verse 13b, Paul urges Christians not to turn their "freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."
Even though I am free in Christ, I still must consider my brothers and sisters and not cause them to stumble spiritually and fall into sin. So I need to watch my words and actions making them Christ-like, for I represent Him. Consider my neighbor.
LET IT GROW
Verses 17-19, NLT, state: "For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. So, then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up."
Concerning these verses, Falwell says," The kingdom of God does not consist in observing or not observing days, eating or not eating meats, or any other secondary issues of religious scruples, but in righteousness
(perfect uprightness in our daily walk), peace (with God and brethren), joy (perfect union and intimate love through the Holy Spirit) . The basis of fellowship isn't peripheral matters of eating or drinking but the salvation which both enjoy in Christ."
In Paul's day, the controversy of Christians was over the views about diet and days. Was it right or wrong to eat meat offered to idols and observe to special days?
Today, our decisons are made concerning drinking alcohol, doing drugs, listening to music, watching movies, dancing, smoking tobacco, playing cards, wearing cosmetics, buying cars, homes, translations of the Bible, etc. "Do I?" or "Do I not?", that's the question.
Paul's focus was on serving Christ and others, preaching and teaching the Word. So I need to watch my focus, keeping it on the Word of God, loving my Savior and others.
Henry Blackaby says in his devotional book, Experiencing God Day-By-Day, "A mark of spiritual maturity is a willingness to sacrifice personal comfort in order to strengthen other believers. Paul urges Christians to pursue only activites that promote peace and behavior that builds up others. It involves using all the resources God has given us to ensure growth and peace in the life of a fellow Christian. For Paul, choosing to edify Christians meant refraining from any activity that caused others to stumble."
LET IT GO
Make sure my freedom in Christ does not cause others to stumble and fall into sin.
Base my decisions for participating in activities on pleasing God and not myself, seeking the Holy Spirit's leading.
Encourage others, not judge them.
Love my neighbors more.
Coat my words with love.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanks Giving
NOVEMBER 25, 2010 "THANKS GIVING"
Today is Thanksgiving in America. I'm taking time away from Romans to spend it with family and the Lord.
For what am I thankful ?
First, life provided by God. If my dad had not been kept alive during WWII, when he stepped on a mine in France, I would not be here. (He only lost a leg.)
Second, breath. God kept my heart beating and restored my breath after surgery in 2001.
Third, salvation, grace, mercy, the Bible, and eternal life, which all come from Jesus Christ.
Fourth, my husband of 38 years today. Happy anniversary, dear! He is a Christian and has served God for 30 years in the pastorate.
Fifth, my children, grandchildren, friends, church family, extended families, you faithful sisters, my country; the list can go on.
It all comes as blesssings from my God.
Psalm 100 says:
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Have a wonderful day, ya'll and count your blessings. I know I will.
Be back on Monday with Romans 14.
In Christ's love,
Linda
Today is Thanksgiving in America. I'm taking time away from Romans to spend it with family and the Lord.
For what am I thankful ?
First, life provided by God. If my dad had not been kept alive during WWII, when he stepped on a mine in France, I would not be here. (He only lost a leg.)
Second, breath. God kept my heart beating and restored my breath after surgery in 2001.
Third, salvation, grace, mercy, the Bible, and eternal life, which all come from Jesus Christ.
Fourth, my husband of 38 years today. Happy anniversary, dear! He is a Christian and has served God for 30 years in the pastorate.
Fifth, my children, grandchildren, friends, church family, extended families, you faithful sisters, my country; the list can go on.
It all comes as blesssings from my God.
Psalm 100 says:
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Have a wonderful day, ya'll and count your blessings. I know I will.
Be back on Monday with Romans 14.
In Christ's love,
Linda
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Getting Dressed
Romans 13
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Romans 13:14
LET IT GLOW
Before Sunday morning comes, I ususally have in mind what I will wear to church. That makes it faster for me to iron my clothes and get dressed. However, this past Sunday, what I chose didn't look right, so I thought. After I had ironed it and put on the dress, I decided to change. So there I stood at the closet, looking over the choices that were before me. Finally, I grabbed a dress, which I had not worn in a while, ironed it, and put it on. But, with the change of color, that meant changing my jewelry and shoes, too. Gee, there's so much to this "getting dressed" thing for us women. In chapter 13, Paul tells us how to get dressed as a Christian.
In verse 12, Paul says to "cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light." So I am to remove my dark deeds like clothing, listed in verse 13 (wild parties, drunkenness, sexual promiscuity, immoral living, quarreling, jealousy). Then I'm to put on the armor of light. What's the armor of light? It's the armor of God found in Ephesians 6:11-18 ( truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God). (NLT)
Now, in verse 14, Paul says,"But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."
Charles Swindoll says,"God's people should wear the protective garments of a holy lifestyle, not the fashionable yet destructive clothing of a sinful manner of life. Draw on Jesus' strength; align our thoughts with His mind-set; yield our will to His revealed plan; then we will be beacons in the midst of darkness. "
So I'm not completely dressed until I put on the whole armor of God-belt of truth, body armor of God's righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit, which is God's Word. It all protects me from the temptations of the world and strategies of the devil. (NLT)
LET IT GROW
Verse 8: "Owe no man any thing, but to love one another; for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law." Verse 9b: " Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."
Verse 10: "Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law."
David Guzik says," Some take this command to never borrow, but Jesus permitted borrowing in passages like Matthew 5:41. That isn't the sense of what Paul is saying here. Love your neighbor means to love the people you actually meet with and deal with every day."
Charles Swindoll says, "When a payment is due on a bill, we are told to pay it. When we meet our obligations, the name of Christ will be honored instead of defamed. The only debt we have that can never be fully paid is love for one another." Also, he said,"If we really love someone, we won't take advantage of that person's mate, life, or belongings. Instead, we will do whatever we can to benefit his or her life to the greatest degree."
Confession time: As I typed this, I found myself saying, "I wish so and so would read and apply these verses
and show love towards me." Yes, Lord, forgive me for not loving these people like You want me to love them, unconditionally. If love is to begin with me, so be it. Fill me with Your Spirit of love.
1 Corinthians 14:1 says," Let love be your highest goal." (NLT)
LET IT GO
Get dressed the way God wants me to-clothed in His armor with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and His Word.
Pay my bills.
Love my neighbor.
Surrender to God's will.
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Romans 13:14
LET IT GLOW
Before Sunday morning comes, I ususally have in mind what I will wear to church. That makes it faster for me to iron my clothes and get dressed. However, this past Sunday, what I chose didn't look right, so I thought. After I had ironed it and put on the dress, I decided to change. So there I stood at the closet, looking over the choices that were before me. Finally, I grabbed a dress, which I had not worn in a while, ironed it, and put it on. But, with the change of color, that meant changing my jewelry and shoes, too. Gee, there's so much to this "getting dressed" thing for us women. In chapter 13, Paul tells us how to get dressed as a Christian.
In verse 12, Paul says to "cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light." So I am to remove my dark deeds like clothing, listed in verse 13 (wild parties, drunkenness, sexual promiscuity, immoral living, quarreling, jealousy). Then I'm to put on the armor of light. What's the armor of light? It's the armor of God found in Ephesians 6:11-18 ( truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God). (NLT)
Now, in verse 14, Paul says,"But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."
Charles Swindoll says,"God's people should wear the protective garments of a holy lifestyle, not the fashionable yet destructive clothing of a sinful manner of life. Draw on Jesus' strength; align our thoughts with His mind-set; yield our will to His revealed plan; then we will be beacons in the midst of darkness. "
So I'm not completely dressed until I put on the whole armor of God-belt of truth, body armor of God's righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit, which is God's Word. It all protects me from the temptations of the world and strategies of the devil. (NLT)
LET IT GROW
Verse 8: "Owe no man any thing, but to love one another; for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law." Verse 9b: " Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."
Verse 10: "Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law."
David Guzik says," Some take this command to never borrow, but Jesus permitted borrowing in passages like Matthew 5:41. That isn't the sense of what Paul is saying here. Love your neighbor means to love the people you actually meet with and deal with every day."
Charles Swindoll says, "When a payment is due on a bill, we are told to pay it. When we meet our obligations, the name of Christ will be honored instead of defamed. The only debt we have that can never be fully paid is love for one another." Also, he said,"If we really love someone, we won't take advantage of that person's mate, life, or belongings. Instead, we will do whatever we can to benefit his or her life to the greatest degree."
Confession time: As I typed this, I found myself saying, "I wish so and so would read and apply these verses
and show love towards me." Yes, Lord, forgive me for not loving these people like You want me to love them, unconditionally. If love is to begin with me, so be it. Fill me with Your Spirit of love.
1 Corinthians 14:1 says," Let love be your highest goal." (NLT)
LET IT GO
Get dressed the way God wants me to-clothed in His armor with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and His Word.
Pay my bills.
Love my neighbor.
Surrender to God's will.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)