Week
of 2 Pentecost - Even
This Bible Study was originally published at:
http://shepherdboy.journalspace.com/, (now defunct).
It is based on the Lutheran
Book of Worship two-year Daily Lectionary for personal
devotions p.179-192, Augsburg Publishing House, Minneapolis, 1978.
The daily readings are according to a Calendar based on the
Church Year, which begins on the first Sunday of Advent, usually
sometime at the end of November in the year preceding the secular
calendar year.
Available at:
http://shepherdboy.byethost12.com/
(Please bookmark this link).
This 'blog is mirrored at:
http://shepherdboy-mydailywalk.blogspot.com/
Shepherdboysmydailywalk’s Blog
.mp3 Podcasts via Linux Festival
text-to-speech and Panopreter
Basic text-to-speech are available at:
http://shepherdboy.byethost12.com/dw_bible/evenyear/wklx_even.html
http://shepherdboy.byethost12.com/dw_bible/oddyear/Wklx_odd.html
Please Note:
This ‘blog is now available in mobile-optimized format:
http://winksite.mobi/shepherdboy/MyDailyWalk
Free to distribute; for personal use, Bible Study Groups, and Adult
Christian Education. Disk Image and/or .zip file to burn the complete
Bible Study to CD are available at:
http://shepherdboy.byethost12.com/#Burn_Site_to_CD
To get the most from these studies, it is suggested that you first
read the scripture texts for the entry, and then the paraphrase and
commentary. It is also recommended that you look up the scripture
references, unless you recognize and recall them from memory.
I will post weekly by Saturday, noon, (God willing), Pacific time
(UTC-8:00) for the week of the Church Season which begins on Sunday.
Please scroll down for the desired day, or save the week to your
desktop/hard drive.
Podcast Download: Week of 2 Pentecost - Even
Sunday 2 Pentecost - Even
First posted
06/12/04;
Podcast: Sunday 2 Pentecost - Even
Proverbs 9:1-12 - Wisdom’s
invitation;
Acts 8:14-25 - Simon the Magician;
Luke 10 25-28, 38-42 - Essentials for eternal life;
Acts 8:14-25 - Simon the Magician;
Luke 10 25-28, 38-42 - Essentials for eternal life;
Proverbs Paraphrase:
Divine Wisdom (the wisdom of God, by which the world was created, as distinct from false, worldly wisdom; Proverbs 9:10, 1 Corinthians 1:18-24) is portrayed as the hostess of a feast in a great palace. She invites all who lack wisdom to come and partake of her bounties. Scoffers are arrogant, self-assured people who feel they already know everything they need to know and have no need of religion. Scoffers thus will not appreciate correction; those who try to correct one who is evil may be injured for their efforts.
While a scoffer will hate you for correcting him, one who is truly wise will appreciate and thank you for correction. A wise person is thus able to learn still more. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight” (Proverbs 9:10), because only God is able to extend your life. Those who are wise receive the benefit themselves; scoffers will bear the penalty of their own scoffing.
Acts Paraphrase:
A report that some Samaritans had
received the Gospel reached the apostles in Jerusalem,
and the apostles sent Peter and John to the Samaritans
to pray and lay their hands on them so that they might
receive the Holy Spirit. The Samaritans had been
baptized in the name of Jesus but the Holy Spirit had
not yet fallen upon them.
When Simon the magician (not Simon Peter; see Acts 8:9-11) saw that the Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered the apostles money for the power to confer the Holy Spirit upon whomever he laid his hands. But Peter rebuked him harshly, saying, “Your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!”
Peter also said that Simon had no participation in either receiving or anointing others with the Holy Spirit because his heart was not right before God. Peter told Simon to repent of his wickedness and pray that, if possible, the wicked intent of Simon’s heart might be forgiven. Simon’s actions revealed that he was enslaved by his own sinfulness. Simon asked Peter to pray to the Lord on Simon’s behalf, so that Simon might avoid the punishment Peter had prophesied.
Luke Paraphrase:
A Lawyer asked Jesus what one must do
to inherit eternal life. Jesus responded by asking the
Lawyer what the Law (the Law of Moses; Scripture) said.
The Lawyer replied that one shall love the Lord God with
heart, soul, mind, and strength; and one’s neighbor as
oneself. Jesus told the Lawyer that his answer was
correct, and that if the Lawyer did as he had said he
would live eternally.
Afterwards, Jesus went to the home of Mary and Martha. Martha was busily trying to provide an elaborate meal for her guest, but Mary sat at the Lord’s feet listening to his teachings. So Martha went to the Lord and asked him to tell Mary to help her serve the meal. Jesus told Martha that she was worried about many things, but that only one thing is necessary. Mary had chosen the good and necessary thing, which shall not be taken from her.
Commentary:
The Lord offers divine wisdom freely to all who are willing to come to him and seek it. The Word of God, the Bible, is divine wisdom. Jesus is the personification of divine wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:24 (18-23). The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ, the Counselor, divine wisdom personified, residing within each believer, opening our minds to understand the scriptures, giving us what to say in the hour of testimony.
Three things are necessary in order to be filled with the Holy Spirit. First is baptism in the name of the Trinity (One God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; Matthew 28:18-20). In Acts 8:16 they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. The apostles prayed to the Father and invoked the Holy Spirit; Acts 8:15). Second, according to this passage, is the laying on of hands and apostolic succession. Third is the spiritual condition of the Candidate’s inner attitude (“heart”).
God does not give the gift of the Holy Spirit to those who are not walking in obedience to God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Isaiah 42:5e), and my own personal experience testifies to this reality. The gifts of God are freely available to anyone who will seek and receive them. We are saved by grace (unmerited favor; free gift) through faith (trusting and obeying), not because of works (good deeds). The gifts of God cannot be bought, earned, or taken by force or deception (Ephesians 2:8-9). The scriptural record of Simon the magician is a warning to any who think that they can buy the gifts of God, with money, or good deeds, or church membership, or who desire to profit from “peddling” God’s Word and his gifts.
The Lawyer wasn’t interested in doing God’s will; he was using God’s Law, God’s Word, to justify his own actions and to avoid doing what God desires. The Lawyer thought he was righteous based on his knowledge and deeds of keeping the Law, so Jesus’ asked the Lawyer to answer according to what the Law said. The Lawyer answered correctly, and Jesus told him that the Lawyer knew the right answer, and he would have eternal life if he did as he had said. The problem is that no one can fulfill the Law apart from Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:16; 5:4).
Martha was preoccupied with worldly concerns. She wanted to demonstrate her homemaking skills to Jesus, to show him what a good hostess she was. Jesus wasn’t seeking to be entertained. He was seeking to be listened to and followed. Martha wanted Jesus to bless and prosper what Martha wanted. Mary was open to receive what the Lord wanted her to have.
The Lord is the gracious host who freely offers a feast of wisdom and eternal life with him. How do we respond to his invitation? Do we think we are wise already and have no need of what he offers?
Do we think we are good enough already to be considered righteous in his eyes? Do we think we can buy, earn, or take by force or deception what he offers without doing what he requires?
Do we think we can impress him with our worldly abilities and induce him to bless and prosper our desires, without seeking and obeying his will? Martha was going through the motions of being a good hostess, but was in fact ignoring her guest and his wishes. She is like people who go to Church and are involved in the ritual, without obedience to Jesus’ teachings in their daily lives.
Jesus is God’s only provision for our salvation (Acts 4:12; John 14:6) Is Jesus your Lord (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46)? Are you Jesus' disciple (John 8:31)? Are you trusting and obeying Jesus (John 14:21)? Have you received the indwelling Holy Spirit since you first truly believed (Acts 19:2)? Are you making disciples of Jesus Christ and teaching them to obey all that Jesus commands (Matthew 28:18-20)? Do you know with certainty where you will spend eternity (1 John 5:11-13; Ephesians 1:13-14)?
Monday 2 Pentecost - Even
First posted 06/13/04;
Podcast: Monday 2 Pentecost - Even
Proverbs 10:1-12 - Rewards of righteousness;
1 Timothy 1:1-17 - Sound doctrine;
Matthew 12:22-32 - The source of Jesus’ power;
Proverbs Paraphrase:
These maxims contrast a series of virtues with corresponding vices and teach the consequences of actions. Children who learn and show wisdom delight their parents but those who don’t are a disappointment. Any short-term gain from wickedness is made worthless by the ultimate consequences, “but righteousness delivers from death” (Proverbs 10:2b). The Lord provides for the righteous, but will not permit the wicked to find satisfaction.
People will be rewarded according to what they do. The righteous will be blessed and the wicked will be punished (but not necessarily in this world). Those who are wise are those who obey God’s Word; those who disobey God’s Word are fools who will come to ruin. “He who walks in integrity, walks securely, but he who perverts his way will be found out” (Proverbs 10:9). He who tolerates unrighteousness (“winks his eye” at; Proverbs 10:10) causes trouble, but those who reprove unrighteousness make peace. Righteous people say things that promote life, but the wicked use their voices to destroy. “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses” (Proverbs 10:12).
1 Timothy Paraphrase:
This letter, written by Paul to Timothy, urges him to defend sound doctrine in the face of false teachings arising in the Church. Timothy, the pastor of the congregation, was urged by his mentor not to allow individuals to teach different doctrines [than the apostolic (as taught by the apostles), scriptural (as recorded in the Bible) doctrines which Timothy had received from Paul], nor to allow “theological” speculation to supplant discipleship.*
The goal of the ministry of the Gospel is love (not a romantic emotion, but genuine, self-sacrificing concern for the wellbeing of others, like God’s own love for us) which results from a pure heart and clear conscience (by the forgiveness which is only possible through Jesus Christ) and by sincere faith (obedient trust) in Jesus. People who deviate from this go astray into useless discussion. They desire to be teachers of God’s Word without having understood it or having experienced the truth of it.
God’s Law is good if it is used correctly. But the Law was written not for the righteous, but for the lawless, the disobedient, the ungodly, and sinners; the unholy and profane. Murder, immorality, homosexuality,** lying and perjury are specifically categorized as sinful, ungodly, and under condemnation, along with any other (unspecified) behaviors which are contrary to God’s Word.
Paul rejoiced that God had forgiven him because Paul had acted in ignorance and unbelief. God appointed Paul to the ministry of the Gospel, even though Paul had previously persecuted the faith. Jesus’ mission was not to condemn, but to save, sinners (John 3:16-17). Paul acknowledged himself to have been among the worst of sinners. Yet he praised God that in Paul, himself, God’s great mercy and perfect patience might be clearly demonstrated as an example to those who would believe in Jesus Christ and receive eternal life.
Matthew Paraphrase
A blind and mute demoniac was brought to Jesus who healed him so that he regained speech and sight. The people were amazed and began to seriously consider that Jesus might be the “Son of David” (the Messiah, the heir to David’s throne). But the Pharisees said that Jesus was casting out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Jesus knew their thoughts, and replied that a kingdom which is divided against itself is destroyed. The same is true of a city or a family. Therefore, if Satan is divided against himself how could his kingdom stand?
There were also Jewish exorcists at the time, of which the Pharisees approved, so Jesus asked the Pharisees whether these others also cast out demons by Beelzebul. On the other hand, Jesus suggested, if Jesus was casting out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God was appearing.
Jesus compared his exorcism to the plundering of the house of a strong man; the strong man must first be restrained. Jesus said that those who do not work with Jesus are working against him.
Jesus declared that every sin and blasphemy is forgivable except blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Speaking against Jesus Christ is forgivable but speaking evil of the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven now or ever.
Commentary:
God’s Word is true, divine wisdom, by which the world was created, in contrast to false, worldly wisdom (Proverbs 9:10; 1 Corinthians 1:18-24). Obedience to God’s Word is wisdom and life. Those who disregard God’s Word are fools who will come to ruin. [God’s Word will never direct you to harm yourself or others. If you believe God is directing you to do anything that would endanger yourself or others you are wrong.]
The problems addressed in the letter to Timothy were caused by false teachers who deviated from God’s Word, the Bible, and from the true Gospel of Jesus Christ as proclaimed by the Apostles and recorded in the Bible. False teaching and false doctrine has been a problem for the Church since its beginning. Too often Church leaders have disregarded the warnings to Timothy not to allow the teaching of different doctrines (1 Timothy 1:3) or to occupy themselves with “theological” speculations (1 Timothy 1:4 RSV).
There is a lot of “theological” speculation going on in Seminaries and Church Universities today. The issue of homosexuality is just one example of “different doctrines” being taught in Churches today. Another problem is of those desiring to be teachers of the “Word” without understanding the things about which they make assertions (1 Timothy 1:7). Church administrators are ordaining ministers who have been “educated” in “theological speculation” in Seminaries but haven’t been discipled, and have not been filled with the indwelling Holy Spirit. People are attracted to the ministry as a career and are becoming mere “peddlers of God's Word” (2 Corinthians 2:17).
How are we doing, Church? Are we gathering with Jesus, or are we scattering? Jesus’ last command to his disciples was to make disciples, and to teach them to obey all that Jesus had commanded (Matthew 28:18-20 RSV). Are we working for unity in the Body of Christ by adherence to sound Biblical doctrine, or are we dividing the Church with different, non-Biblical doctrines? Are we hindering people from believing in Jesus because we’re arguing over doctrine or authority? Are we glorifying the Lord or bringing him reproach?
What can an individual do? No understanding of doctrine can substitute for a personal relationship with Jesus! Commit yourself to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, and to obey his word. Begin by reading the entire Bible. Anyone can read the entire Bible in a year or less. There are several 1-year plans; see Links to Bible Study Tools, sidebar top right, home.
Spend time daily in Bible reading and prayer. Seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and be guided by the Spirit. Stay away from Churches that advocate anything other than, or in addition to, the Bible as the basis of their doctrine: the Bible and “Tradition,” or the Bible and some other book, for example. Look for a Church that preaches the whole Bible and that teaches discipleship.
*The word used in the text is from a Greek word meaning to “build up”; “confirm” (Strong’s #3618). The RSV translates it as (divine) “training” (or “stewardship,” i.e., the discipline of servanthood).
** From two Greek words meaning “men bedding (or conceiving) with men” (Strong’s #730 & 2845; see Strong’s #733); i.e., “sodomites,” after the city of Sodom, destroyed by God for its homosexual practice (Genesis 19:4-5 (24-25); men who have unnatural sexual relations with men (and, by extension, women who have unnatural sexual relations with women). The KJV translates as: “men defiling themselves with men.”
Tuesday 2 Pentecost - Even
First posted 06/14/04;
Podcast: Tuesday 2 Pentecost - Even
Proverbs 15:16-33 - Wisdom to live by;
1 Timothy 1:18-2:15 - Ordinances regarding worship;
Matthew 12:33-42 - The sign of Jonah;
Proverbs Paraphrase:
The fear of the Lord is better than material wealth. A meager meal with love is better than the richest banquet where there is hatred. A hot temper stirs up anger, but one who is slow to anger promotes peace. The way of the lazy is full of obstructions, but the way of the righteous does not cause stumbling. One who acts wisely honors his parent; one who acts foolishly dishonors them. Folly seems pleasant to those without sense, but a wise person chooses righteousness. Plans go wrong without wise counsel. “To make an apt answer is a joy to a (person) and a word in season, how good it is” (Proverbs 15:23).
The person who follows (divine) wisdom finds life and avoids eternal death (Proverbs 15:24). The Lord destroys the house of the proud but prospers the house of the poor and humble. “The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord but the words of the pure (righteous) are pleasing to him” (Proverbs 15:26). Unjust gain brings trouble, but those who refuse bribes will live. The righteous think before they speak; the wicked blurt out what they think without reflection. “The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous” Proverbs 15:29). One who heeds admonition is wise and gains understanding. “The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom” (Proverbs 15:33a).
1 Timothy Paraphrase:
Timothy was urged to “fight the good fight,” holding on to the true faith and good conscience. Several individual members of Timothy’s congregation were cited as having wandered into false doctrines and having come to spiritual disaster. They had apparently been removed from membership in the hope that they might learn their error and repent.
Timothy was instructed to pray for all people, because God desires that all people should be saved and come to know the truth. Paul prayed that all people would be able to pray together in unity and peace. Women were to be modest in their attire, adorning themselves with good deeds rather than by ostentatious material display (and this applies to men as well).
Matthew Paraphrase:
A tree is known by the fruit it bears. A good tree bears good fruit; a bad tree bears bad fruit. What we say is the fruit of what is in our hearts. The mouths of those who treasure evil in their hearts will speak evil; those who treasure good in their hearts will speak good. On the Day of Judgment, our words will justify or condemn us (because every careless word we utter reveals our spiritual condition).
Some of the scribes and Pharisees asked Jesus for a sign or demonstration as proof of his authority. Jesus answered that they were of an evil and (spiritually) adulterous generation. The only sign they would see was the sign of Jonah. As Jonah was in the belly of the whale, so would the Son of man be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights.
Jesus declared that the example of Nineveh would condemn this generation, because Nineveh repented at Jonah’s preaching, and that something greater than Jonah was happening in their presence in Jesus Christ, (and yet was not resulting in their repentance). Another illustration was that of the Queen of the South (of Sheba), who came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Jesus is the wisdom of God personified (1 Corinthians 1:24), but they were not receiving his wisdom.
Commentary:
Jesus is the wisdom to live by! The person who follows (divine) wisdom finds life and avoids eternal death (Proverbs 15:24). The Holy Spirit (the Spirit of Christ; Romans 8:9b) is the Counselor whose counsel is necessary and reliable; who provides us with an apt answer and a word in season (Proverbs 15:23; Matthew 10:19-20), who teaches us all things and brings to our remembrance all that Jesus taught (John 14:26).
We are urged to hold on to the true, apostolic (as taught by the apostles), scriptural (as recorded in the Bible) Gospel of Jesus Christ and good conscience (to live in accordance with what we know is true, according to God’s Word). God desires that all people should be saved and come to know the truth. We should pray (and work) for the salvation of all people.
Our hearts will ultimately justify or condemn us on the Day of Judgment. What we believe in our hearts produces fruit in our lives. It is possible to say one thing with our lips and believe something else in our hearts only in the short term; but God knows our hearts; and ultimately, what we believe influences what we do.
The scribes’ and Pharisees’ problem was not a lack of “signs” of Jesus’ authority. They didn’t accept the signs that were all around them. The people of Nineveh didn’t repent because Jonah had been in the belly of the whale, but because they acknowledged the truth of his preaching and repented of their misdeeds.
Jonah prefigures the Christ, being obedient to God, raised as from the dead after three days, leading people to repentance and saving them from God’s judgment. Jesus’ Resurrection from the dead is an apt comparison to Jonah’s restoration from the belly of the whale.
Jesus’ Resurrection is a tremendous “sign” for those who believe in Jesus’ words, but for those who do not believe his words, the sign is not accepted. For people who need a “sign” in order to believe there is none; but for those who believe, there is abundant proof.
Those who are in Jesus Christ, who have been raised to new life in Christ through his indwelling Holy Spirit, are called to hold onto the Gospel, to live according to it, and to pray and work for the salvation of all people. If we truly believe and have come to know the Risen Lord Jesus Christ through his indwelling Spirit, we will respond to his call to preach the Gospel to all nations, making disciples, and teaching them to obey all that Jesus commanded (Matthew 28:18-20 RSV).
Is Jesus your Lord (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46)? Are you Jesus' disciple (John 8:31)? Are you trusting and obeying Jesus (John 14:21)? Have you received the indwelling Holy Spirit since you first truly believed (Acts 19:2)? Are you making disciples of Jesus Christ and teaching them to obey all that Jesus commands (Matthew 28:18-20)? Do you know with certainty where you will spend eternity (1 John 5:11-13; Ephesians 1:13-14)?
Wednesday 2 Pentecost - Even
First posted 06/15/04;
Podcast: Wednesday 2 Pentecost - Even
Proverbs 17:1-20 - Maxims
concerning conduct;
1 Timothy 3:1-16 - Qualifications of Church leadership;
Matthew 12:43-50 - Return of the unclean spirit;
1 Timothy 3:1-16 - Qualifications of Church leadership;
Matthew 12:43-50 - Return of the unclean spirit;
Proverbs Paraphrase:
A crust of bread, in peace, is better than a feast, in strife. A slave who deals wisely will be given promotion over a son who acts shamefully, and will share in the inheritance. The Lord refines hearts like the smith refines precious metal. Evildoers listen to evil talk. He who disrespects the poor insults his maker. “He who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished” (Proverbs 17:5b). Grandchildren are the reward of the aged, and fathers are the delight of sons.
Fine speech does not enhance a fool, nor are lies becoming to a prince. A bribe seems like a good-luck charm to the giver; he has good fortune no matter what he does. Love forgives; those who recall offenses alienate friends. A wise man learns more from a rebuke than a fool learns from a hundred blows. Rebellion provokes repression. A fool is more dangerous to others than a bear robbed of her cubs. One who returns evil for good can expect evil. Once quarreling begins, it is hard to end. Justifying the wicked and condemning the righteous are equally abominable to the Lord. Why should a fool pay for an education if he has no intellect?
“A friend loves at all times; a brother is born for adversity” (Proverbs 17:17). A rash pledge can have disastrous consequences. One who indulges in transgression is going to have trouble. Those who act arrogantly can expect to be hated (Proverbs 17:19). Crooks don’t prosper, and liars get into trouble. A stupid or foolish child is no joy to his parents. A cheerful attitude is good medicine, but a grouch is depressing. It is wickedness to accept a bribe to pervert justice. A wise man has wise goals, but a fool chases impossible dreams. “Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent” (Proverbs 17:28).
1 Timothy Paraphrase:
The office of Bishop (overseer) is worthy of respect, and those who hold the office should be beyond reproach. They must manage their households and personal lives well to be considered able to manage the household of God, and to command the respect of outsiders. They should have some spiritual maturity. Deacons likewise must be of good character. They must be firm in faith and knowledge of the Gospel, and be applying it in their daily lives (having a “clear conscience;” 1 Timothy 3:9).
Church leaders must be beyond reproach because they gain respect from their office, and by their conduct, influence, for better or worse, the faith of others in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Church is the pillar which upholds and the bulwark which defends the Gospel truth in the world, and our conduct as the Church should be in harmony with that mission. Jesus Christ is the central content of the Gospel.
Matthew Paraphrase:
Jesus told a parable about the return
of an unclean spirit which had gone out of a man. The
unclean spirit was in the wilderness with no place to
go, so he decided to return to the man from whom he had
gone out. He came and found his “home” vcant and clean,
so he invited seven other spirits, more evil than he, to
dwell there with him.
While Jesus was still speaking, he was told that his mother and brothers were outside asking to speak with him. Jesus declared that those who are truly his family, his “mother and brothers,” are those who do the will of God the Father.
Commentary:
Most people would agree that these proverbs concerning conduct are “just common sense.” But why then doesn’t every one do what appears to be common sense? Because we have a choice and we don’t always choose to do what we know is right. We do what we want to do, instead of what we know is right.
The Church is the “pillar and bulwark” of the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There are too many examples recently of church leaders whose conduct has brought reproach upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Not just Church Leaders, but every member of the church is a witness, for good or bad, to the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ command to the Church is to make disciples, teaching them to obey all that Jesus taught (Matthew 28:18-20 RSV).
The Church should be discipling new believers so that they grow in spiritual maturity. Too often there is not enough emphasis in growing in knowledge of the Gospel and the scriptures. Many church members have never read the entire Bible, and do not read the Bible regularly (or even hear it read regularly on Sunday mornings in Church).
Too often the preaching emphasis is on “cheap grace:*” grace without the requirement of discipleship; without obedience. There is not enough emphasis on obedience to Jesus’ teachings in our everyday lives. The conduct of every church member is a witness, for better or worse, for the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the world. Lack of obedience to Jesus not only endangers others’ faith in Jesus; it endangers our own as well.
The parable of the return of the unclean spirit should be a warning to us and to the Church. When new members are received, they are freed from “unclean spirits” and their souls are cleansed from unrighteousness. But unless they are discipled, unless they grow spiritually in the knowledge of the Gospel and in the application of Jesus’ teaching in their daily lives, unless they seek the infilling of the Holy Spirit, their newly cleansed lives remain empty and attractive to repossession by sin.
It isn’t those who call themselves the family of Jesus Christ who are his family; it is those who do God’s will who are members of Jesus’ family. Jesus said, “Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and not do what I tell you” (Luke 6:46; see also 6:47-49)?
Is Jesus your Lord (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46)? Are you Jesus' disciple (John 8:31)? Are you trusting and obeying Jesus (John 14:21)? Have you received the indwelling Holy Spirit since you first truly believed (Acts 19:2)? Are you making disciples of Jesus Christ and teaching them to obey all that Jesus commands (Matthew 28:18-20)? Do you know with certainty where you will spend eternity (1 John 5:11-13; Ephesians 1:13-14)?
*A term used by Deitrich Bonhoeffer
to describe a doctrine of salvation by grace (unmerited
favor) without emphasizing a corresponding obligation of
discipleship and obedience. See: The Cost of
Discipleship, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Collier Books,
Macmillan Publishing Co., NY 1963 ISBN 0-02-083850-6
Thursday 2 Pentecost - Even
First posted 06/16/04;
Podcast: Thursday 2 Pentecost - Even
Proverbs 21:30-22-6 -
Concerning life and conduct;
1 Timothy 4:1-16 - False teachers;
Matthew 13:24-30 - Weeds among wheat;
1 Timothy 4:1-16 - False teachers;
Matthew 13:24-30 - Weeds among wheat;
Proverbs Paraphrase:
“No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel, can avail against the Lord. The horse is made ready for battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord (Proverbs 21:30-31). A good reputation is better than wealth. The rich and poor both have the same Lord and creator. A wise man takes shelter from danger while a fool goes ahead, and suffers the consequences. The reward for serving the Lord is riches, honor and life. The way of the perverse will be difficult and unpleasant; one who cares for himself will avoid that path. “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
1 Timothy Paraphrase:
The Holy Spirit revealed through New Testament prophets that false teachers would arise, teaching the doctrines of demons and deceitful spirits. For example, Paul cites false teachings already circulating forbidding marriage and the eating of certain foods. On the contrary, everything created by God is good and not to be rejected as long as it is received with thanksgiving and is consecrated by God’s Word and prayer.
Believers are advised to “have nothing to do with godless and silly myths” (1 Timothy 4:7), but rather to train themselves in godliness. While physical training may have some benefit for this life, spiritual training in godliness has great benefit for this life and for eternal life.
Eternal life is the goal and hope for
which we strive, because our hope is in the living God,
who is the Savior of all who believe (who trust and obey
Jesus Christ). Timothy was instructed to command and
teach these things: obedience to the true, apostolic (as
proclaimed by the apostles), scriptural (as recorded in
the Bible), Gospel of Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 1:3-5;
18-19).
Timothy was to set believers an example in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. He was to attend to public reading of scripture, preaching and teaching. He was urged not to neglect the gifts of the Holy Spirit which he had received. He was to practice and devote himself to his spiritual duties, so that all would be able to see his growth. He was to take heed of his own spiritual growth and to the teaching of others, because in doing so he and his hearers would be saved.
Matthew Paraphrase:
Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven is like a field in which a man sowed good seed. But “while men were sleeping,” his enemy deliberately sowed weed seeds among the wheat. The weeds came up with the grain. The weeds could not be removed at that stage without damaging the wheat, so the weeds were allowed to grow until the harvest. Then the weeds would be gathered and bound into bundles to be burned, but the wheat would be gathered into the barn.
Commentary:
God’s Word will prevail. We can work for or against the Lord, but the outcome has already been determined. The victory was won when Jesus died on the Cross for our sins and was raised from the dead.
False teachings began to arise in the early Christian Church while the eyewitnesses to Jesus’ ministry and Resurrection were still alive. Believers were well advised to hold on to the true Biblical Gospel of Jesus Christ which they had received from the Apostles and to keep a “clear conscience” (i.e., to practice what they professed). Jesus had commanded his disciples to “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe (i.e.; obey; NIV) all that I (Jesus) have commanded you” Matthew 28:18-20 RSV).
This letter documents obedience to that command. Believers are to be trained by the Church in godliness; discipleship; spiritual growth. Believers are counseled not to neglect to seek the fulfillment of the gift of the Holy Spirit which they were promised in the laying on of hands at their baptism. Believers are to practice and devote themselves to their spiritual duties so that others can see their spiritual growth.
God allows false teachers and false teaching to continue. That doesn’t mean that we must tolerate them within the Church. (1 Corinthians 5:1-5; 1 Timothy 1:19b-20). Ultimately there will be a Day of Judgment. All who have ever lived will be accountable to God in Jesus Christ for what they have done in their lives (John 5:28-29). Jesus Christ is God’s only provision for our salvation (Acts 4:12; John 14:6).
It won’t be enough to merely claim that Jesus is our Lord, without having obeyed what he teaches (Luke 6:46; Matthew 25:31-46).
Is Jesus your Lord (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46)? Are you Jesus' disciple (John 8:31)? Are you trusting and obeying Jesus (John 14:21)? Have you received the indwelling Holy Spirit since you first truly believed (Acts 19:2)? Are you making disciples of Jesus Christ and teaching them to obey all that Jesus commands (Matthew 28:18-20)? Do you know with certainty where you will spend eternity (1 John 5:11-13; Ephesians 1:13-14)?
Friday 2 Pentecost - Even
First posted 06/17/04;
Podcast: Friday 2 Pentecost - Even
Proverbs 23:19-21, 29-24:2
- Warning against drunkenness;
1 Timothy 5:17-22 (23-25) - Church discipline;
Matthew 13:31-35 - The parable of the mustard seed;
1 Timothy 5:17-22 (23-25) - Church discipline;
Matthew 13:31-35 - The parable of the mustard seed;
Proverbs Paraphrase:
This passage from Proverbs is a warning against drunkenness and gluttony. Those who drink to excess will have emotional and social troubles and physical injury. A drink may look appealing, and may taste good, but later it has the effect of a poisonous snake. Drunkenness affects the vision and balance like snakebite. Too much alcohol will cause hallucinations and delusions. One may suffer serious injury without realizing it. Don’t envy evil men or desire their company. Their minds devise violence and their lips speak mischief.
1 Timothy Paraphrase:
Church leaders are to be respected as
stewards of God’s household, doubly so, those who
participate in preaching and teaching in addition to
their administrative duties. The author quotes
Deuteronomy 25:4 which says that an ox should not be
muzzled when it is treading out grain (i.e., it should
not be prevented from partaking freely from the grain it
is helping to harvest) and Matthew 10:10 where Jesus
told his disciples as he commissioned and sent them
out into ministry that the laborer deserves his
wages.
Charges of misconduct against an elder are to be substantiated by more than one witness. Those who persist in sin are to be disciplined in the presence of the entire body as a warning to all. The conduct of church administration is to be carried out without partiality or favoritism. The Church is cautioned not to be "hasty in the laying on of hands" (in ordaining leaders, or receiving members), and not to become participants in the sins of others.
Drinking in moderation is allowable. Sometimes sins are obvious although sometimes they can be hidden for a while. Eventually they will be revealed. Similarly some good deeds are conspicuous, but even when they are not, they cannot remain hidden. Eventually our conduct, whether good or bad, will be revealed.
Matthew Paraphrase:
Jesus described the kingdom of heaven as a mustard seed. From a tiny seed, a large shrub grows and becomes the size of a tree, so that birds make their nest in it. The kingdom of heaven is also like a lump of leaven (yeast). A small amount is “hidden” in a large amount of dough so that it seems to disappear, but eventually the entire amount is leavened. Jesus taught everything in parables, fulfilling the prophecy of Asaph the seer (2 Chronicles 29:30)* the author of Psalm 78:2 which is quoted.
Commentary:
The warning against drunkenness is well-advised. Drinking in moderation is not a sin (1 Timothy 5:23) but there is a danger that moderate drinking can lead to alcoholism. Let us not overlook the injunction to not fellowship with evil people. If we drink in order to have fellowship with a group of “friends” perhaps we need to reconsider our situation. We cannot help others by participating in their sins (1 Timothy 5:22).
Church leaders are worthy of respect and compensation for their labor, but they are also obligated to be respectable. The conduct of Church administration is to be without favoritism or partiality. Accusations must be substantiated. Those who persist in sin are to be disciplined in the presence of the entire body as a warning against misconduct. Concealing or accepting unrepented sinful conduct is participation in sin.
The Church is cautioned to be careful whom they ordain to leadership, and also whom they receive into membership. The standards of conduct apply not only to the clergy and church leaders but to all church members, because all are witnesses of the Gospel and representatives of God’s kingdom to the world.
Jesus described the kingdom of heaven as a mustard seed. In one sense the mustard seed represents our personal faith. Faith isn’t a matter of “quantity;” a question of how much faith. If we simply say yes to Jesus as our Lord and begin to act accordingly, he will cause that tiny mustard seed of faith to grow to maturity and fullness. As we trust and obey Jesus, he will show us that he is faithful and his promises are true. But we have to say “yes” and stick with it, day after day.
Faith isn’t an "altar call" we made years ago which settled the issue for all time, without any further growth and discipleship; it’s the beginning of a daily walk in obedience and fellowship with Jesus. Jesus also described the kingdom of heaven as leaven. Believers are to be leaven in the world. We are to go into the world and allow our influence to affect the world by the direction and power of the Holy Spirit.
Our deeds, whether good or bad, eventually will be known. We need to examine ourselves individually, and the Church needs to examine itself. Are we growing spiritually as disciples? Are we being a good influence in the world, or is the world being a bad influence on us individually and corporately as the Church.
Is the Church allowing fellowship with evil people within the Church? Is the Church condoning and participating in sin? Has the Church been forced to be “hasty in the laying on of hands” on ministerial candidates who are not disciples and not Spirit-anointed because the Church has failed to make disciples at the congregational level? Has the Church been so eager for members that she has been "hasty in the laying on of hands" on those who are unwilling to be disciples?
Is Jesus your Lord (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46)? Are you Jesus' disciple (John 8:31)? Are you trusting and obeying Jesus (John 14:21)? Have you received the indwelling Holy Spirit since you first truly believed (Acts 19:2)? Are you making disciples of Jesus Christ and teaching them to obey all that Jesus commands (Matthew 28:18-20)? Do you know with certainty where you will spend eternity (1 John 5:11-13; Ephesians 1:13-14)?
* The Oxford Annotated Bible, Revised
Standard Version, Ed. by Herbert G. May and Bruce M.
Metzger, Matthew 13:35n, p. 1188, New York, Oxford
University Press, 1962.
Saturday 2 Pentecost - Even
First posted 06/18/04;
Podcast: Saturday 2 Pentecost - Even
Proverbs 25:15-28 - Moral instruction;
1 Timothy 6:6-21 - Godliness with contentment;
Matthew 13:36-43 - Day of Judgment;
Proverbs Paraphrase:
Patience can persuade one in authority. Soft words can hurt. Too much of a good thing can make you sick. Visiting your neighbor too often will make him tired of you. False witness against a neighbor is as bad as physical violence. Trust in an unfaithful person will make you miserable. Singing songs to someone who is sad is inappropriate and unhelpful. “If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; for you will heap coals upon his head, and the Lord will reward you” (Proverbs 25:21-22). A slanderous tongue will provoke anger. Living with a contentious spouse is unpleasant. Good news refreshes the soul. A righteous person who compromises his values under pressure from a wicked person is polluted and loses his usefulness. Too many compliments spoil the effect. A person without self-control is, like an unprotected city, vulnerable to all sorts of bad things.
1 Timothy Paraphrase:
“There is great gain in godliness with contentment” (1 Timothy 6:6). The material things of this world pertain to this world only; we can’t store them up and take them with us into eternal life. So if we have food and clothing we should be content. Those who desire material possessions fall into temptation and into hurtful desires which ruin and destroy. “For the love of money is the root of all evils” (1 Timothy 6:10).
Love of material possessions has caused some believers to wander away from faith. Believers are urged to avoid the temptations of material wealth and instead make their aim righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness and gentleness. Believers are to “fight the good fight of the faith” (to make the effort and personal sacrifice necessary to pursue and win the promise of faith in Jesus which is eternal life.
Those who sincerely confess that Jesus is Lord receive the promise of eternal life, provided that they persevere in faith and obedience to Jesus. Believers are urged to keep Jesus’ commands unstained and free of reproach until his appearing (on the Day of Judgment). Those who have material wealth are advised not to be haughty, nor to place their confidence in their wealth, which is unreliable, but rather to trust and depend on God who is the source of every blessing.
All, especially the wealthy, are to be rich in good deeds, liberal and generous, because that is the solid foundation on which to secure the future in eternal life. Believers are urged to guard the Gospel truth which has been entrusted to us, and to “avoid godless chatter and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge, for by professing it some have missed the mark as regards the faith” (1 Timothy 6:20b-21).
Matthew Paraphrase:
Jesus’ disciples asked him privately to explain the parable of the weeds among the wheat (Matthew 13:24-30). Jesus told them that the Son of man (Jesus) is the sower of good seed. The good seeds are the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the sower of weeds is the devil. The reapers are angels. The harvest is the close of the age (the Day of Judgment). The angels will gather all causes of sin and all evildoers and cast them into the fire of Hell. Hell will be eternal destruction and separation from God (Matthew 13:42; see 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10). The righteous will be gathered into the kingdom of eternal life in Heaven with the Lord (John 5:28-29; Matthew 25:31-46).
Commentary:
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the
Good News which truly refreshes the soul (Proverbs
25:26)! Jesus is the source of living water (John 4:10;
7:37). Those who believe in Jesus are to be springs of
the living water of the Gospel in the world (John 4:14;
7:38-38). A righteous person who compromises his values
under pressure from the wicked becomes a polluted spring
(Proverbs 25:26). A person who does not practice
self-control is like an unprotected city (Proverbs
25:28).
Godliness with contentment is true wealth. Lust for the things of this world can cause believers to wander from faith and lose the promises of God. Believers are urged to renounce the pursuit of worldly wealth; to focus instead on spiritual growth, in righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness and gentleness.
Godliness with contentment is true wealth. Lust for the things of this world can cause believers to wander from faith and lose the promises of God. Believers are urged to renounce the pursuit of worldly wealth; to focus instead on spiritual growth, in righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness and gentleness.
Life in this world is a spiritual battle between good and evil. If we follow Jesus we must expect to struggle against temptation; against our own human desires. Following Jesus requires discipline and self-denial, obedience and perseverance.
It is very tempting to rely on material possessions for security. Material things seem so solid; so real, whereas spiritual things seem so ethereal. But the “reality” of material things is deceptive; the only true, eternal, security is in God, and the only way to God is through Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12; John 14:6).
Believers are entrusted with the Gospel, which is the fountain of the water of life. Believers are to be springs of living water to the world, and the source of that water is the indwelling Holy Spirit of Christ. We are specifically warned to guard the Gospel truth and our witness from pollution by compromise with worldly values. We are to preserve without deviation the apostolic (as proclaimed by the apostles) scriptural (as recorded in the Bible) Gospel of Jesus Christ with which we have been entrusted. We are to testify to the truth of the Gospel by practicing what we proclaim. We are admonished not to indulge in foolish speculation with those who do not know God, in the exercise of what the world falsely considers knowledge (1 Timothy 6:20).
There is a Day of Judgment coming. Jesus will return to judge all who have ever lived (John 5:28-29; Matthew 25:31-46). Jesus will determine who have proved to be the sons (and daughters) of his kingdom by bearing the fruit of the Word which Jesus has sown in the Gospel (Matthew 13:41-43). It is not enough to claim Jesus as Lord without obeying his word (Luke 6:46; Matthew 7:21-23). “Be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22).
Is Jesus your Lord (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46)? Are you Jesus' disciple (John 8:31)? Are you trusting and obeying Jesus (John 14:21)? Have you received the indwelling Holy Spirit since you first truly believed (Acts 19:2)? Are you making disciples of Jesus Christ and teaching them to obey all that Jesus commands (Matthew 28:18-20)? Do you know with certainty where you will spend eternity (1 John 5:11-13; Ephesians 1:13-14)?
