Is there good to be taken from the fact that evil is present? We may quickly say no, there is no good to be taken from this. In a finality of all things, this is true, evil is never good and is to be defeated.
Let us try and look at this a different way though. If you struggle and succeed, is God glorified?
2 Corinthians 1:3 - 6
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.
If we succeed in trials, God is glorified. We cannot escape sin in this world, but we are not a slave to it if we are redeemed.
John 16:33
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
So sin and evil does not glorify God, but when we overcome evil in his name, he is glorified.
Romans 12:21
Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
So why is sin present, or why does it reign? Two reasons for sin are those in open rebellion against God and his Word, and to prevent that which is good.
Romans 7:21
I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
The point I am getting to is this. If you have your heart right with God, and you are not in an open state of rebellion against his Word, if you have no cause with or against your brother and sisters in Christ, then evil is present to prevent the good that you can and would do.
Rejoice and rededicate your efforts on the goal ahead.
Matthew 26:38 - 44
Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.
At Jesus's most trying time evil was present almost to the point of more than he could bare. Christ instead of giving in to sin, prayed the more earnestly three times. We know that Jesus was mocked and tortured after this, but the resurrection three days later was the greatest moment for the life of man and for his chance at everlasting life.
If you are facing a lot of evil, be of good courage, because when you overcome through and by God, a big victory is just around the corner.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
4th Week of February 2012 Adult Sunday School Lesson
1 Timothy Chapter 5
It should come as no surprise that Paul instructs Timothy to treat fellow brethren with all kindness and humility. Christ did after all died for our sins, so it should not be too much trouble to treat fellow saints with love and kindness. Paul then spends a lot of time talking about widows, because there is a responsibility of the church and where there is great responsibility there is unfortunately an occasion for great abuse.
A widow is expected to keep herself in a godly manner. It almost appears if some widows were given and opportunity for work and help out with church duties or charity. Paul warns that this is only for widows that will keep themselves without spot from the world are to do service and represent the church or have the church's help. He did not want widows, especially younger widows, living in sin or going around spreading gossip.
By the time we get to the eighth verse Paul also makes it clear that the church is to not take care of widows that have plenty of family that can do the job instead. The church was not meant to be a nursing home so people could go about living their lives without responsibility to their own family members.
Just as bishops and deacons should be chaste in their living, Paul says the same thing about widows that would either be in service to the church or supported financially by the church. He also warns that younger widows may very well marry and shouldn't be taken in to the responsibility of the church.
In the 17th verse it is mentioned that elders should be given 'double honor'. Whether this means preachers only or deacons, any other that can be considered to 'labor in word and doctrine', we don't know. Word and doctrine points to preachers, but it could easily count deacons as well.
Don't take simple accusations against an elder, but before two or more witnesses. That is plain and I don't think we need much discussion as to why. Paul makes it clear the seriousness of these instructions. He wants Timothy to 'lay hands suddenly' on no man because you don't want to appoint or promote anyone unless they have lived a life that is evident before all people.
We also have here what the example of patience does for a Christian. We don't always know what sin might be inside a person, but make no mistake, it will come out eventually. Christ is patient to see how we'll serve him and we should be patient in seeing what makes up a person who claims to be a Christian. In due time, almost all will come to light, but God knows the hearts of everyone.
It should come as no surprise that Paul instructs Timothy to treat fellow brethren with all kindness and humility. Christ did after all died for our sins, so it should not be too much trouble to treat fellow saints with love and kindness. Paul then spends a lot of time talking about widows, because there is a responsibility of the church and where there is great responsibility there is unfortunately an occasion for great abuse.
A widow is expected to keep herself in a godly manner. It almost appears if some widows were given and opportunity for work and help out with church duties or charity. Paul warns that this is only for widows that will keep themselves without spot from the world are to do service and represent the church or have the church's help. He did not want widows, especially younger widows, living in sin or going around spreading gossip.
By the time we get to the eighth verse Paul also makes it clear that the church is to not take care of widows that have plenty of family that can do the job instead. The church was not meant to be a nursing home so people could go about living their lives without responsibility to their own family members.
Just as bishops and deacons should be chaste in their living, Paul says the same thing about widows that would either be in service to the church or supported financially by the church. He also warns that younger widows may very well marry and shouldn't be taken in to the responsibility of the church.
In the 17th verse it is mentioned that elders should be given 'double honor'. Whether this means preachers only or deacons, any other that can be considered to 'labor in word and doctrine', we don't know. Word and doctrine points to preachers, but it could easily count deacons as well.
Don't take simple accusations against an elder, but before two or more witnesses. That is plain and I don't think we need much discussion as to why. Paul makes it clear the seriousness of these instructions. He wants Timothy to 'lay hands suddenly' on no man because you don't want to appoint or promote anyone unless they have lived a life that is evident before all people.
We also have here what the example of patience does for a Christian. We don't always know what sin might be inside a person, but make no mistake, it will come out eventually. Christ is patient to see how we'll serve him and we should be patient in seeing what makes up a person who claims to be a Christian. In due time, almost all will come to light, but God knows the hearts of everyone.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Revival thought for week 8 of 2012
There is no unity without distinct identities. How can someone be united with themselves? God intended the Church to be different people from different backgrounds and upbringings with different gifts. He knew this and expected the Church not only to succeed but to excel under this organization.
In 1st Corinthians Paul goes on at length about the different members and how each has their own purpose defined by God!
1 Corinthians 4 - 27
v.4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
v.7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
v. 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
v. 12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
v. 14 For the body is not one member, but many.
v. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
v. 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
v. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
v. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
v. 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
v.26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
v. 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
So we see, God knew of our differences and even planned that the Church would be strong because of it, as long as we are UNITED in the Holy Ghost to the uplifting of Jesus Christ and the spread of the Gospel Message.
In 1st Corinthians Paul goes on at length about the different members and how each has their own purpose defined by God!
1 Corinthians 4 - 27
v.4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
v.7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
v. 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
v. 12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
v. 14 For the body is not one member, but many.
v. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
v. 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
v. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
v. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
v. 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
v.26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
v. 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
So we see, God knew of our differences and even planned that the Church would be strong because of it, as long as we are UNITED in the Holy Ghost to the uplifting of Jesus Christ and the spread of the Gospel Message.
3rd Week of February 2012 Adult Sunday School Lesson
1 Timothy Chapter 4
Paul understood directly from the Holy Ghost that in 'latter times' some shall fall away. Whether this be the latter times of this church, THE church, in that time or in this, the message does not change. People, and unfortunately some Christians will be pulled away by others teaching things contrary to the Gospel. Some will be pulled away by their own pride and greed. In 1 John it speaks of these things and it goes further and says that those that preach 'another gospel' are anti-christ.
Some will be led to say all manner of things that cannot be backed up by the Bible, God's Spirit, or even the law. Paul wanted Timothy to not only be aware of these things but to continually warn the other 'brethren' of such things. He warned him against old stories and fables that get passed around; to stick to what is true. Exercise was not to be a distraction either. We do have to keep in mind that the number one form of transportation at this time was shoe leather, and that people did not generally spend hours sitting. Anything though, that keeps us from putting God first place is a sin and a weight (Hebrews 12:1). To be healthy physically and lost spiritually is to lose everything in the end.
We never get an answer as to Timothy's age. He must have been fairly young, or at least young compared to those in the Church he was at. Paul wanted him to keep the utmost decorum around others so that older people would not be jealous and look down on his age.
Notice the three things that Paul tells him to do often until he returns. Reading (of God's word), exhortation (to be positive and encourage others), and doctrine (or teaching of the Gospel) are the things that Timothy is supposed to occupy with until Paul returns. This advice can be given to us as well that we are to read, exhort, and teach until our Savior returns. Also remember, that any gift God has given us, we are to use it for Him and his will; just as the story of the talents in Matthew.
Why is Timothy encouraged to do these things? Paul repeats himself, but then adds that if Timothy will do them, souls will be saved, and not just his own!
Paul understood directly from the Holy Ghost that in 'latter times' some shall fall away. Whether this be the latter times of this church, THE church, in that time or in this, the message does not change. People, and unfortunately some Christians will be pulled away by others teaching things contrary to the Gospel. Some will be pulled away by their own pride and greed. In 1 John it speaks of these things and it goes further and says that those that preach 'another gospel' are anti-christ.
Some will be led to say all manner of things that cannot be backed up by the Bible, God's Spirit, or even the law. Paul wanted Timothy to not only be aware of these things but to continually warn the other 'brethren' of such things. He warned him against old stories and fables that get passed around; to stick to what is true. Exercise was not to be a distraction either. We do have to keep in mind that the number one form of transportation at this time was shoe leather, and that people did not generally spend hours sitting. Anything though, that keeps us from putting God first place is a sin and a weight (Hebrews 12:1). To be healthy physically and lost spiritually is to lose everything in the end.
We never get an answer as to Timothy's age. He must have been fairly young, or at least young compared to those in the Church he was at. Paul wanted him to keep the utmost decorum around others so that older people would not be jealous and look down on his age.
Notice the three things that Paul tells him to do often until he returns. Reading (of God's word), exhortation (to be positive and encourage others), and doctrine (or teaching of the Gospel) are the things that Timothy is supposed to occupy with until Paul returns. This advice can be given to us as well that we are to read, exhort, and teach until our Savior returns. Also remember, that any gift God has given us, we are to use it for Him and his will; just as the story of the talents in Matthew.
Why is Timothy encouraged to do these things? Paul repeats himself, but then adds that if Timothy will do them, souls will be saved, and not just his own!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Revival thought for week 7 of 2012
Perseverance
from Merriam Webster's dictionary website.
Definition of PERSEVERANCE
: continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition : the action or condition or an instance of persevering : STEADFASTNESS
Ephesians 6:18 - 20
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
We may not always feel like pressing forward. We may not always feel like doing what is right, or doing anything at all. This is human nature, and while normal, blessing only come from not giving in to the feeling. Victory only comes through the 'continued effort' to the high calling of Jesus Christ.
2nd Week February 2012 Adult Sunday School Lesson
Last week we didn't finish the 2nd chapter in class. I will go ahead and continue on with the 3rd chapter to keep progress on this blog.
Here we go into no doubt what is one of the more famous chapters in the letters to Timothy. Paul outlines the guidelines for a good bishop or pastor. This is the one that will be in charge and responsible for flock of the Church. It is a grave responsibility that requires someone of the utmost character and long suffering. Not only is the Bishop required to be of great character, but so is his family. His wife and children and anyone of 'his house' are supposed to be under his subjection. This does not refer to those who have left his house and no longer under his control just as the pastor does not take responsibility for those people who have either left the church or joined a separate congregation.This is backed up in several places but one of those being in Matthew 19:5, 6
And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Paul also speaks of not promoting a 'novice'. One that is new to the faith or not old enough to have the experience needed in life to take on such a responsibility. Also important is that the man for this position has people who back up his lifestyle in Jesus.
Paul doesn't stop with the bishops or pastors, but continue's on with with deacons. He gives similar instructions for the character of the deacons and their wives. One can take away from this the importance of marrying the right spouse. Your loyal and righteous service to God is partly dependent on your spouse and that relationship. You won't live alone, you won't raise the children alone, and this will in turn influence your relationship and service to Christ. To be a deacon is to declare before God, the church and all those that know, that you are a representative and ambassador not only of Jesus, but of his Church on earth.
The chapter is finished with a reminder of savior that was witnessed of God, the Spirit, Gentiles and Jews alike bearing a true testimony and everlasting Salvation.
Here we go into no doubt what is one of the more famous chapters in the letters to Timothy. Paul outlines the guidelines for a good bishop or pastor. This is the one that will be in charge and responsible for flock of the Church. It is a grave responsibility that requires someone of the utmost character and long suffering. Not only is the Bishop required to be of great character, but so is his family. His wife and children and anyone of 'his house' are supposed to be under his subjection. This does not refer to those who have left his house and no longer under his control just as the pastor does not take responsibility for those people who have either left the church or joined a separate congregation.This is backed up in several places but one of those being in Matthew 19:5, 6
And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Paul also speaks of not promoting a 'novice'. One that is new to the faith or not old enough to have the experience needed in life to take on such a responsibility. Also important is that the man for this position has people who back up his lifestyle in Jesus.
Paul doesn't stop with the bishops or pastors, but continue's on with with deacons. He gives similar instructions for the character of the deacons and their wives. One can take away from this the importance of marrying the right spouse. Your loyal and righteous service to God is partly dependent on your spouse and that relationship. You won't live alone, you won't raise the children alone, and this will in turn influence your relationship and service to Christ. To be a deacon is to declare before God, the church and all those that know, that you are a representative and ambassador not only of Jesus, but of his Church on earth.
The chapter is finished with a reminder of savior that was witnessed of God, the Spirit, Gentiles and Jews alike bearing a true testimony and everlasting Salvation.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Revival thought for week 6 of 2012
This thought comes from a post by Darren Hardy over at 48days website.
Where your attention goes, energy flows and so goes your life. When I interviewed racecar-driving legend Mario Andretti, I asked him for the No. 1 success tip to racecar driving. His answer, “Don’t look at the wall.” He explained, “Your car goes where your eyes go.” If you are a tightrope walker, what’s the one thing you never do? Right, look down. Why? Your body will follow your eyes. Your body (your life) also follows your eyes (your attention). If you point your eyes at Constant Negative News (there’s an acronym for that), your life will also go in that direction.
You go in the direction you are looking. That is a simple and yet powerful thought. The thought comes from someone with experience in making sure he's going the right direction.
Proverbs 3:19 - 21
The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.
By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:
By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:
Proverbs 4:25
Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.
Probably my favorite of these verses, and there are many......
Proverbs 7: 1, 2
My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
Look to Jesus, look to revival, and it will put us on the right track.
1st Week February 2012 Adult Sunday School Lesson
1 Timothy chapter 2
Here in the first two verses we find the commandment, that we are to pray for all people, no one excluded, especially those in leadership roles locally and nationally. We may not vote for a person, but clear in the second verse we are commanded to pray for people in governance over us. Why, because in verse three Paul says this is 'acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;'. No on comes to power without God's knowledge, and we are to accept the things that God has allowed to come to place. That doesn't mean we don't pray for God's will to be done, or for righteous people to be elected or come to power, but we pray for our leaders in either case.
The forth verse is so important. Christ died for all, not leaving anyone out. His purpose was that all men might be saved. John 3:25 says 'That whosoever believeth in him should not perish', and then so does the famous 16th verse. It is man's sin that causes separation from Christ and not Jesus himself. We have choice and free will. We may not feel that we choose hell, but when we deny his son, we are making a choice.
Then here comes the chain of command if you will. The order of all things in this world. One God, one mediator who is Christ Jesus. That is the only way to get to heaven and eternal live with Jesus and there is no other way.
I believe when we turn our lives over to Jesus Christ we will discover our 'calling'. God has a purpose for us in this life. We are not some grand experiment, and he does not forget about any of us. The story of the three servants and the talents comes to mind over and over for me. God have given us talents, gifts, and he expects us to use them in service to him. We are not only to do our utmost for his highest, but in being a light and example inspire others to do the same. Paul recognizes his calling. He realizes he is the apostle to the Gentiles. Oh, and we have God and Paul to thank that he did such a good job so that we might have the Word that we have today. We have this Word to know how to set up and run the church, and how to run our families.
From the eighth verse on we have how we are to act in Church and at home. Men lifting up holy hands without anger and doubting (I paraphrased). How sin has made a mockery of what God put in motion! God did not intend for man to abuse his power, his wife or his children. He intended for man to be an example of Christ's love and protection for his people. We see how many have not done anything with the talents given to them by God.
Later Paul is describing the way that some women dressed at the time. The point here is to dress moderately and not something you're not. I know that is open to interpretation, but I guess our best guide is a humble conscience. Paul then goes on to mention silence. My own interpretation of this is that woman are not supposed to be in a position of authority, or command in the church. We know that the early church had prophetesses and that they spoke by revelation of God. I believe if there is an exception, it is by the Spirit or God and nothing else. Paul goes on to give his argument why this is, and reminds everyone of the fall of Adam in the garden. God always gives hope and due benevolence, because he finishes the chapter with miracle that all men would be delivered by, and that is through the birth of Jesus by the woman Mary.
Here in the first two verses we find the commandment, that we are to pray for all people, no one excluded, especially those in leadership roles locally and nationally. We may not vote for a person, but clear in the second verse we are commanded to pray for people in governance over us. Why, because in verse three Paul says this is 'acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;'. No on comes to power without God's knowledge, and we are to accept the things that God has allowed to come to place. That doesn't mean we don't pray for God's will to be done, or for righteous people to be elected or come to power, but we pray for our leaders in either case.
The forth verse is so important. Christ died for all, not leaving anyone out. His purpose was that all men might be saved. John 3:25 says 'That whosoever believeth in him should not perish', and then so does the famous 16th verse. It is man's sin that causes separation from Christ and not Jesus himself. We have choice and free will. We may not feel that we choose hell, but when we deny his son, we are making a choice.
Then here comes the chain of command if you will. The order of all things in this world. One God, one mediator who is Christ Jesus. That is the only way to get to heaven and eternal live with Jesus and there is no other way.
I believe when we turn our lives over to Jesus Christ we will discover our 'calling'. God has a purpose for us in this life. We are not some grand experiment, and he does not forget about any of us. The story of the three servants and the talents comes to mind over and over for me. God have given us talents, gifts, and he expects us to use them in service to him. We are not only to do our utmost for his highest, but in being a light and example inspire others to do the same. Paul recognizes his calling. He realizes he is the apostle to the Gentiles. Oh, and we have God and Paul to thank that he did such a good job so that we might have the Word that we have today. We have this Word to know how to set up and run the church, and how to run our families.
From the eighth verse on we have how we are to act in Church and at home. Men lifting up holy hands without anger and doubting (I paraphrased). How sin has made a mockery of what God put in motion! God did not intend for man to abuse his power, his wife or his children. He intended for man to be an example of Christ's love and protection for his people. We see how many have not done anything with the talents given to them by God.
Later Paul is describing the way that some women dressed at the time. The point here is to dress moderately and not something you're not. I know that is open to interpretation, but I guess our best guide is a humble conscience. Paul then goes on to mention silence. My own interpretation of this is that woman are not supposed to be in a position of authority, or command in the church. We know that the early church had prophetesses and that they spoke by revelation of God. I believe if there is an exception, it is by the Spirit or God and nothing else. Paul goes on to give his argument why this is, and reminds everyone of the fall of Adam in the garden. God always gives hope and due benevolence, because he finishes the chapter with miracle that all men would be delivered by, and that is through the birth of Jesus by the woman Mary.
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