The Truth about Eternity - By Greg Laurie -
So we tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ. -Colossians 1:28
I have a friend who is a doctor, and sometimes he has the very difficult job of telling people they have cancer. To tell someone this truth is hard, but when he tells patients they have cancer, he can also give them hope for a course of treatment. He gives them the truth, but he also gives them the solution.
When we share the gospel, we not only talk about the promise of Heaven, but we also warn about the reality of Hell. Yes, there is a Hell, but we don't have to go there. God has made a way out of Hell-if we believe in Jesus Christ. To promise Heaven and not warn of Hell, to offer forgiveness without repentance, to preach the gospel without the cross is a false message giving false hope. We want to warn people about this horrific place.
I wonder how many people have actually heard the gospel. I think a lot of people haven't. If you really love people, then you will tell them the truth about eternity. You won't hold back. You will lovingly engage them with the gospel but also warn them of the consequences of what can happen if they do not believe in the gospel.
I pray that God will give us a burden like we have never had before for people that we care about-that we will preach as dying people to other dying people, not knowing how long they have or how long we have. Just say, "I want to give you this message right now because I love you and because I care about you."
So why should we share the gospel? The bottom line is that we don't want people to go to Hell. Let's make every effort we can to get the gospel out.
The Will of the Lord
“Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:17)
There is no more exalted theme in the world than the will of God, nor is there a more important practical question than how to know the will of God. Of greatest significance is the recognition that it is His will—not man’s will—that is important.
God desires for us to know His will—both His will in general, as revealed in Scripture, and His specific will in each particular decision. The latter must in every instance, of course, be fully compatible with the former, as the Holy Spirit, who leads us, will never contradict the Scriptures that He inspired. Thus, an indispensable prerequisite to finding the personal will of God is knowing His general will.
The general will of God is expressed, first of all, in the fact of special creation (Revelation 4:11). Then Christ became man in order to accomplish God’s will (Hebrews 10:7) as our sin-bearing substitute; “By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Hebrews 10:10). It is His will that this should provide salvation to all who believe. “This is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life” (John 6:40). This in turn entails individual regeneration of all who receive Him, “which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” (John 1:13).
Furthermore, His will includes absolute security in Him (John 6:39), our sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3), and ultimate glorification (John 17:24). Thankfulness in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and a virtuous (“well doing”—1 Peter 2:15) life are also God’s will. A believer who understands, believes, and obeys God’s general will is then prepared to know and follow His specific will. HMM
“Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:17)
There is no more exalted theme in the world than the will of God, nor is there a more important practical question than how to know the will of God. Of greatest significance is the recognition that it is His will—not man’s will—that is important.
God desires for us to know His will—both His will in general, as revealed in Scripture, and His specific will in each particular decision. The latter must in every instance, of course, be fully compatible with the former, as the Holy Spirit, who leads us, will never contradict the Scriptures that He inspired. Thus, an indispensable prerequisite to finding the personal will of God is knowing His general will.
The general will of God is expressed, first of all, in the fact of special creation (Revelation 4:11). Then Christ became man in order to accomplish God’s will (Hebrews 10:7) as our sin-bearing substitute; “By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Hebrews 10:10). It is His will that this should provide salvation to all who believe. “This is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life” (John 6:40). This in turn entails individual regeneration of all who receive Him, “which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” (John 1:13).
Furthermore, His will includes absolute security in Him (John 6:39), our sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3), and ultimate glorification (John 17:24). Thankfulness in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and a virtuous (“well doing”—1 Peter 2:15) life are also God’s will. A believer who understands, believes, and obeys God’s general will is then prepared to know and follow His specific will. HMM
The Presence of the Lord
“And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:8)
The presence of the Lord can be either a cause of fear or a source of blessing. Adam and Eve were greatly afraid of His presence because of their sin, and their son Cain “went out from the presence of the LORD” (Genesis 4:16) because of his sin. Yet it will also be to many a time of great joy. “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” (1 Thessalonians 2:19).
The difference, of course, is the presence or absence of unforgiven sin in the presence of the Lord. Most of the sixteen occurrences of the phrase stress the judgmental aspect. Those who reject Christ’s offer of forgiveness through repentance and faith in His death for our sins will eventually be banned forever from His presence, like Cain. “When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: [They] shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power” (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
But for those who have repented of their sins and trusted in Christ for salvation, the prospect of the coming and personal presence of the Lord Jesus is one of joyful anticipation, for “in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psalm 16:11).
When He comes again, we shall be presented “faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy” (Jude 1:24) and shall thenceforth “ever be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:17). HMM
“And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:8)
The presence of the Lord can be either a cause of fear or a source of blessing. Adam and Eve were greatly afraid of His presence because of their sin, and their son Cain “went out from the presence of the LORD” (Genesis 4:16) because of his sin. Yet it will also be to many a time of great joy. “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” (1 Thessalonians 2:19).
The difference, of course, is the presence or absence of unforgiven sin in the presence of the Lord. Most of the sixteen occurrences of the phrase stress the judgmental aspect. Those who reject Christ’s offer of forgiveness through repentance and faith in His death for our sins will eventually be banned forever from His presence, like Cain. “When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: [They] shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power” (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
But for those who have repented of their sins and trusted in Christ for salvation, the prospect of the coming and personal presence of the Lord Jesus is one of joyful anticipation, for “in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psalm 16:11).
When He comes again, we shall be presented “faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy” (Jude 1:24) and shall thenceforth “ever be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:17). HMM
The Sure Foundation
“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure.” (2 Timothy 2:19)
The preceding verses of this section of 2 Timothy are replete with warnings about the damage that could be done through “babblings” and cancerous words. But God is unshaken by whatever man might do. “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).
“I am the LORD, and there is none else,” Isaiah joyfully quotes (Isaiah 45:6). “I am the LORD, I change not,” the prophet Malachi is told (Malachi 3:6), and there is “no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17) in the God of creation. God’s sovereign will is absolute: “The word of our God shall stand for ever” (Isaiah 40:8). “My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure” (Isaiah 46:10).
We who are twice-born, and thus the children of God, can stand firm and steadfast in the knowledge that He who is “sure” is the One who is working in us “to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). He has adopted us as His children “by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will” (Ephesians 1:5).
It is no random act of capricious fate that has secured us. It is the sure foundation of the great Creator God. It is His divine power that has “given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” That calling rests on “exceeding great and precious promises” that enable us to participate in the “divine nature” and escape the awful “corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Peter 1:3-4). HMM III
“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure.” (2 Timothy 2:19)
The preceding verses of this section of 2 Timothy are replete with warnings about the damage that could be done through “babblings” and cancerous words. But God is unshaken by whatever man might do. “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).
“I am the LORD, and there is none else,” Isaiah joyfully quotes (Isaiah 45:6). “I am the LORD, I change not,” the prophet Malachi is told (Malachi 3:6), and there is “no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17) in the God of creation. God’s sovereign will is absolute: “The word of our God shall stand for ever” (Isaiah 40:8). “My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure” (Isaiah 46:10).
We who are twice-born, and thus the children of God, can stand firm and steadfast in the knowledge that He who is “sure” is the One who is working in us “to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). He has adopted us as His children “by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will” (Ephesians 1:5).
It is no random act of capricious fate that has secured us. It is the sure foundation of the great Creator God. It is His divine power that has “given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” That calling rests on “exceeding great and precious promises” that enable us to participate in the “divine nature” and escape the awful “corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Peter 1:3-4). HMM III
Vessels of the House
“But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.” (2 Timothy 2:20)
The “house” referenced here by Paul to young Timothy is the “house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). In the Old Testament, the tabernacle and temple were the dwelling place of God and the center of worship led by a high priest from the tribe of Levi.
Now, we are members of the Lord’s “house” (Hebrews 3:6) and are like “lively stones” that are being “built up a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:5), led by Jesus, who is the “high priest over the house of God” (Hebrews 10:21).
This “great house” has many “vessels” in it of different values. Some are “honorable” instruments (vessels of high value) that serve in the New Testament economy in some parallel function to that of the vessels of the inner court of the tabernacle and temple. Those instruments of gold, silver, and brass (Exodus 25; 2 Chronicles 4) each played a part in the liturgical worship, designed as part of the “schoolmaster” to teach us about the law of God (Galatians 3:24). The more public and formal the use, the more valuable the vessel. The most valuable were set closest to the Holy of Holies.
There are also vessels of “dishonor” in the great house. The tabernacle and temple had “earthen” vessels for certain functions (Leviticus 14). These were expendable—necessary, perhaps, for some short-term need, but not valuable. Since the church now functions as the “pillar and ground” of the truth, the “honorable” vessels are expected to purge themselves from that which is “dishonorable.” HMM III
“But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.” (2 Timothy 2:20)
The “house” referenced here by Paul to young Timothy is the “house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). In the Old Testament, the tabernacle and temple were the dwelling place of God and the center of worship led by a high priest from the tribe of Levi.
Now, we are members of the Lord’s “house” (Hebrews 3:6) and are like “lively stones” that are being “built up a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:5), led by Jesus, who is the “high priest over the house of God” (Hebrews 10:21).
This “great house” has many “vessels” in it of different values. Some are “honorable” instruments (vessels of high value) that serve in the New Testament economy in some parallel function to that of the vessels of the inner court of the tabernacle and temple. Those instruments of gold, silver, and brass (Exodus 25; 2 Chronicles 4) each played a part in the liturgical worship, designed as part of the “schoolmaster” to teach us about the law of God (Galatians 3:24). The more public and formal the use, the more valuable the vessel. The most valuable were set closest to the Holy of Holies.
There are also vessels of “dishonor” in the great house. The tabernacle and temple had “earthen” vessels for certain functions (Leviticus 14). These were expendable—necessary, perhaps, for some short-term need, but not valuable. Since the church now functions as the “pillar and ground” of the truth, the “honorable” vessels are expected to purge themselves from that which is “dishonorable.” HMM III
Spiritually Satisfied
I have a friend who, at one point, was a self-confessed shopping addict. Recently, his family realized that this activity had stopped, though he hadn't intentionally curtailed it. Why, they wondered, did his longing to acquire more goods seem to dissolve?
The reason was that my friend had become more satisfied with the Lord. He no longer needed fulfillment from what the world had to offer. What a terrific illustration of growth in Christ.
In addition to finding fulfillment in God, there are many other growth indicators that are noticeable to the believer. For instance, offering forgiveness becomes easier over time. Consider our Savior, who asked God to forgive even those who crucified Him on the cross.
Also, as we mature, our faith will increase. God loves us, and He gracefully and gently builds our confidence in Him. Then, as our trust grows, we realize how faithful He truly is--which grows our assurance even more.
Another mark of a closer walk with Christ is an expanding concern for others' spiritual condition. And finally, as our relationship with the Lord deepens, we will increasingly desire to obey Him. This desire is born not out of fear but out of love for our heavenly Father. Similarly, when we do sin, our hearts will become saddened and repentant.
Are you satisfied spiritually? Or do you have a growing, insatiable hunger for more of Jesus? Friend, if you think that you've come far enough in your journey with Christ, you have made a terrible mistake. You are missing great fulfillment and the excitement that comes from getting closer to Him.
The Consequences of Sin Genesis 3:14-19
Christians tend to categorize sins, rating some as small and inconsequential, but others as huge and far-reaching in the damage they cause. In reality, no one sins in isolation. Each disobedience to God affects not only the sinner but also countless others in both the present and the future.
If we were to separate Adam and Eve's sin from its context, few of us would convict them of great transgression. All they did was swallow some fruit from a tree with a "do not eat" sign. Today people think nothing of ignoring commands--even biblical ones.
But God has a totally different view of our sins. Each one is followed by negative consequences. Adam and Eve's disobedience led to pain and frustration in two basic areas of fulfillment--relationships and meaningful work. The whole earth fell under sin's curse, and every person born since then has entered the world with a sin nature that alienates each one from the Lord.
That first rebellion plunged humanity into a terrible condition. Civilization is now plagued by countless ramifications of the innumerable sins committed by human beings throughout the ages. Is it any wonder the world is in such sad shape? Sin not only causes suffering; it robs us of God's best. The Garden of Eden is closed and locked to sinful mankind.
The good news of Christ's grace and forgiveness is our only real hope in this fallen world. Though unpleasant, focusing on sin's consequences is necessary at times to remind us of the greatness of our salvation and to move us to obey God, even in the small things. Each obedience is huge to Him.
The Results of Insecurity
Psalms 143:8
We've already seen some of the areas where insecurity shows up. Now we need to turn our attention to its effects.
To start, insecure people have difficulty establishing good, lasting relationships. They simply cannot see how they could add value to anyone else's life. This is a tragic loss, because every single one of us needs deep and meaningful friendships to help us grow.
Also, men and women with insecurity are often seen as prideful or snobbish. Lack of confidence can cause them to withdraw from others, which can easily be mistaken for an act of arrogance. They can thereby give the impression that they simply don't want to be around others.
What's more, insecurity frequently leads to indecisiveness and fear. People can be so consumed with self-doubt that they can't make any decision at all. They wonder, What if I make a mistake? Well, so what if they do? Making mistakes is one of the best ways to learn how to do something correctly. Don't be afraid to try. Even if you don't succeed, you can at least rest in the fact that you did your best.
After a while, insecure people typically get angry. When they go so long feeling so poorly about themselves, they start to resent the success and happiness of others.
Can you see how something as subtle as a lack of confidence can have a debilitating effect on one's life? Don't allow such devastation to affect your relationships. Pray for the ability to recognize areas of self-doubt. And then start to take control today by asking the Lord to heal your insecurities.
The truth that counts - Bill Wilson -
Christians tend to categorize sins, rating some as small and inconsequential, but others as huge and far-reaching in the damage they cause. In reality, no one sins in isolation. Each disobedience to God affects not only the sinner but also countless others in both the present and the future.
If we were to separate Adam and Eve's sin from its context, few of us would convict them of great transgression. All they did was swallow some fruit from a tree with a "do not eat" sign. Today people think nothing of ignoring commands--even biblical ones.
But God has a totally different view of our sins. Each one is followed by negative consequences. Adam and Eve's disobedience led to pain and frustration in two basic areas of fulfillment--relationships and meaningful work. The whole earth fell under sin's curse, and every person born since then has entered the world with a sin nature that alienates each one from the Lord.
That first rebellion plunged humanity into a terrible condition. Civilization is now plagued by countless ramifications of the innumerable sins committed by human beings throughout the ages. Is it any wonder the world is in such sad shape? Sin not only causes suffering; it robs us of God's best. The Garden of Eden is closed and locked to sinful mankind.
The good news of Christ's grace and forgiveness is our only real hope in this fallen world. Though unpleasant, focusing on sin's consequences is necessary at times to remind us of the greatness of our salvation and to move us to obey God, even in the small things. Each obedience is huge to Him.
The Results of Insecurity
Psalms 143:8
We've already seen some of the areas where insecurity shows up. Now we need to turn our attention to its effects.
To start, insecure people have difficulty establishing good, lasting relationships. They simply cannot see how they could add value to anyone else's life. This is a tragic loss, because every single one of us needs deep and meaningful friendships to help us grow.
Also, men and women with insecurity are often seen as prideful or snobbish. Lack of confidence can cause them to withdraw from others, which can easily be mistaken for an act of arrogance. They can thereby give the impression that they simply don't want to be around others.
What's more, insecurity frequently leads to indecisiveness and fear. People can be so consumed with self-doubt that they can't make any decision at all. They wonder, What if I make a mistake? Well, so what if they do? Making mistakes is one of the best ways to learn how to do something correctly. Don't be afraid to try. Even if you don't succeed, you can at least rest in the fact that you did your best.
After a while, insecure people typically get angry. When they go so long feeling so poorly about themselves, they start to resent the success and happiness of others.
Can you see how something as subtle as a lack of confidence can have a debilitating effect on one's life? Don't allow such devastation to affect your relationships. Pray for the ability to recognize areas of self-doubt. And then start to take control today by asking the Lord to heal your insecurities.
The truth that counts - Bill Wilson -
Solomon writes in Ecclesiastes 3:13, "that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labor, it is the gift of God." The Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 6:7-8, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap. For he that sows to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that sows to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." The 10th Commandment in Exodus 20:17 tells us not to covet. Jesus said in in John 10:10, "The thief come not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." These four verses tell us a lot about what is going on in American society today.
As followers of Christ, lovers of God, we are to enjoy the fruits of our labor because they are the gift of God. While life is not always fair, we do reap what we sow. Many work very hard, and reap very little. Others work less, and reap more. Still, spiritually, we may see what we sow beyond this life. It is a foundational principle of life. In today's society, there are many who want to take what you sow and twist and turn what you reap into something that is no longer the fruit of your labors, but rather the possession of another. They covet what you have; they think it is unfair that you have it. This is where they pit people against one another and try to force their will. If you resist, you are ostracized, called names, tagged with labels.
Somehow, these people have usurped the moral high ground with their own brand of morality. It is as Jesus said that the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. When we look at how many in society are so angry, so mean-spirited, so aggressive against anyone who disagrees with them, there is an emptiness within. They accuse others of exactly what they are. It is because they judge others from the content of their own hearts. They are missing the key ingredient of living life more abundantly-the Messiah and the Spirit of the Lord. Some may say they are followers of Christ, but we know them by their fruits. Sadly, they have a center stage platform in this dark and dying world as the news media is part of them.
Ephesians 6 tells us how to respond to this. Verses 10-11 say, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Paul speaks of the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. As an example, he prays that he may open his mouth boldly to make know the mystery of the gospel. You see, these angry people are devoid of the truth, the truth of God, the Messiah and His saving grace. They have given themselves over to lies. Our response must show Christ, showing truth in love and standing for what is right, which can be tough love. It is the truth and how we sow it that counts.
Just Do Your Part - By Greg Laurie -
"For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God."
-Acts 20:27
My mother was married and divorced seven times, so I practically had a full-time ministry sharing the gospel with her husbands. She was married to a man named Bill when she died, and one day I received word that Bill was very sick and wasn't expected to live much longer.
At the time I was on my way to the airport to preach somewhere, but then it occurred to me that Bill could die while I was away. The irony was that I was going to preach to people about Jesus, yet Bill needed Jesus very badly.
I turned around and drove over to Bill's house. And the moment I walked in, I realized that he literally was at death's door. I went over the gospel with him one more time and said, "Bill, would you like to pray and ask Jesus into your life?"
He had always been resistant to this, but this time he said yes. That day I left Bill's home thanking God. Then I caught my plane. The moment I landed, I got a text that said Bill had died.
When it comes to sharing the gospel, do we really realize that eternity is at stake? We don't know how long people will live. And we don't know how long we will live.
The apostle Paul, speaking to the elders of Ephesus, said, "Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:26-27 NKJV). Paul was saying, "I've done my part."
Our job is proclamation. God's job, if you will, is conversion. Our job is sowing the seed. His job is reaping where it has been sown. Just do your part.
A Certainty for Everyone - By Greg Laurie -
Man is like a breath; His days are like a passing shadow. -Psalm 144:4
Statistically, three people die every second, 180 people die every minute, and 11,000 people die every hour. This means that every day around the world, 250,000 people enter eternity. Moses prayed, "So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" (Psalm 90:12 NKJV). The psalmist David said, "Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow" (Psalm 144:4 NKJV).
We have to look at this topic biblically, not emotionally, remembering that life comes to an end for everyone. One thing is clear: we're going to die and enter the afterlife.
Philip of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, commissioned a servant to remind him every day of his own mortality. And Steve Jobs said, "No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don't want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it."
Everyone has to face death. It's a certainty we all know.
Ecclesiastes 3 says, "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die" (verses 1-2 NKJV). And Hebrews 9:27 tells us, "It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment" (NKJV). Death may come sooner than expected, or it may come later. But it will come.
Then what? According to Scripture, if you believe in Jesus, then you'll go to Heaven. If you don't believe in Jesus, then you'll go to Hell. If you're a Christian, praise God for that. But if you know people who aren't Christians, my question is what are you doing to reach them? We want to do everything we can to keep people out of that horrible place.
Vessels of Honor
�If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master�s use, and prepared unto every good work.� (2 Timothy 2:21)
There are several metaphors used by the New Testament writers to help us understand aspects of God�s Kingdom. �Fowls� make a home in the mustard seed �tree� (Matthew 13:31-32). �Tares� grow up with the �wheat� (Matthew 13:25). A �house� represents the church of God (1 Timothy 3:15), in which are both honorable and dishonorable �vessels� (2 Timothy 2:20).
The first step in becoming an honorable vessel is to �purge� oneself from that which is dishonorable. The Greek term ekkathairo and its derivatives all are connected to active cleansing from falsehoods and defilements, as well as separation from those who tolerate ungodliness. �Purge out therefore the old leaven,� Paul insists, �that ye may be a new lump� (1 Corinthians 5:7). Those who are the twice-born are to �possess� their �vessel� in honor (1 Thessalonians 4:4). Some, like Paul, are �chosen vessels� (Acts 9:15).
All who would seek �honorable� service must be sanctified (set apart) for the Master�s use. �Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God� (2 Corinthians 7:1). An honorable vessel must be prepared (ready) for good works.
Honorable and effective service in the house of God requires that such vessels must be willing to �sanctify the Lord God in your hearts� (1 Peter 3:15). There is no greater honor than being counted �sanctified, and meet for the master�s use.� HMM III
�If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master�s use, and prepared unto every good work.� (2 Timothy 2:21)
There are several metaphors used by the New Testament writers to help us understand aspects of God�s Kingdom. �Fowls� make a home in the mustard seed �tree� (Matthew 13:31-32). �Tares� grow up with the �wheat� (Matthew 13:25). A �house� represents the church of God (1 Timothy 3:15), in which are both honorable and dishonorable �vessels� (2 Timothy 2:20).
The first step in becoming an honorable vessel is to �purge� oneself from that which is dishonorable. The Greek term ekkathairo and its derivatives all are connected to active cleansing from falsehoods and defilements, as well as separation from those who tolerate ungodliness. �Purge out therefore the old leaven,� Paul insists, �that ye may be a new lump� (1 Corinthians 5:7). Those who are the twice-born are to �possess� their �vessel� in honor (1 Thessalonians 4:4). Some, like Paul, are �chosen vessels� (Acts 9:15).
All who would seek �honorable� service must be sanctified (set apart) for the Master�s use. �Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God� (2 Corinthians 7:1). An honorable vessel must be prepared (ready) for good works.
Honorable and effective service in the house of God requires that such vessels must be willing to �sanctify the Lord God in your hearts� (1 Peter 3:15). There is no greater honor than being counted �sanctified, and meet for the master�s use.� HMM III
Things to Flee
�Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.� (2 Timothy 2:22)
There are times to stand and there are times to flee. There are some things so fearful and deadly that it is foolish to try to face them at all. The only rational course, when confronted by them, is to flee!
The most obvious of all such enemies is the wrath of God, for His judgment is terrible and eternal. Therefore, His message to all unsaved men and women is to �flee from the wrath to come� (Matthew 3:7�the first occurrence of �flee� in the New Testament) by receiving Christ as Savior.
It is wise to refrain from all kinds of sin, but certain sins have such deadly consequences, even in this present life, that the Scriptures warn us to flee from them. �But thou, O man of God, flee these things� (1 Timothy 6:11). In context, the apostle Paul is here warning against �the love of money� (v. 10) and those who suppose �that gain is godliness� (v. 5). Those who desire to be rich, he says, �fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition� (v. 9). Therefore, flee from this temptation!
He also warns us to �flee from idolatry� (1 Corinthians 10:14)�that is, from worshipping and serving any part of the creation �more than the Creator� (Romans 1:25). This warning is especially appropriate today when there is such a wide resurgence of evolutionary pantheism.
Also, we must �flee fornication� (1 Corinthians 6:18). This is a deadly danger to the Christian in this day of amorality. Finally, as our text says, young believers (and old believers need this admonition, too!) should �flee also youthful lusts,� if we are to be able to �call on the Lord out of a pure heart.� HMM
�Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.� (2 Timothy 2:22)
There are times to stand and there are times to flee. There are some things so fearful and deadly that it is foolish to try to face them at all. The only rational course, when confronted by them, is to flee!
The most obvious of all such enemies is the wrath of God, for His judgment is terrible and eternal. Therefore, His message to all unsaved men and women is to �flee from the wrath to come� (Matthew 3:7�the first occurrence of �flee� in the New Testament) by receiving Christ as Savior.
It is wise to refrain from all kinds of sin, but certain sins have such deadly consequences, even in this present life, that the Scriptures warn us to flee from them. �But thou, O man of God, flee these things� (1 Timothy 6:11). In context, the apostle Paul is here warning against �the love of money� (v. 10) and those who suppose �that gain is godliness� (v. 5). Those who desire to be rich, he says, �fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition� (v. 9). Therefore, flee from this temptation!
He also warns us to �flee from idolatry� (1 Corinthians 10:14)�that is, from worshipping and serving any part of the creation �more than the Creator� (Romans 1:25). This warning is especially appropriate today when there is such a wide resurgence of evolutionary pantheism.
Also, we must �flee fornication� (1 Corinthians 6:18). This is a deadly danger to the Christian in this day of amorality. Finally, as our text says, young believers (and old believers need this admonition, too!) should �flee also youthful lusts,� if we are to be able to �call on the Lord out of a pure heart.� HMM
Walking in Truth
�I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.� (2 John 1:4)
This beautiful metaphor, �walking in truth,� is found only in the two one-chapter epistles of John�here in our text, and in 3 John 1:3 and 4. This principle should indeed characterize our daily lives, since our Lord and Savior is Himself �the truth� (John 14:6), the Word of God that we believe is �truth� (John 17:17), and the Holy Spirit who indwells our bodies is the very �Spirit of truth� (John 15:26).
The New Testament also uses other characteristics of the Christian life under this figure of walking. When a person is born again through faith in Christ and testifies of this by following the Lord in baptism, he or she is said to be raised to �walk in newness of life� (Romans 6:4).
Then, since the Holy Spirit has come to indwell our bodies, to comfort, guide, and constrain us as needed, we are exhorted to �walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh� (Galatians 5:16). Furthermore, we are commanded to �walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us� (Ephesians 5:2). This is not erotic love, of course, or even brotherly love, but unselfish agape love that sacrifices its own interests for the needs of others.
There are still more such exhortations. �Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time� (Colossians 4:5). Furthermore, we are to �walk in the light, as he is in the light� (1 John 1:7).
All of these and other similar admonitions can be summarized as simply following the example of Christ. �He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked� (1 John 2:6). �He that followeth me,� said Jesus our Lord, �shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life� (John 8:12). HMM
�I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.� (2 John 1:4)
This beautiful metaphor, �walking in truth,� is found only in the two one-chapter epistles of John�here in our text, and in 3 John 1:3 and 4. This principle should indeed characterize our daily lives, since our Lord and Savior is Himself �the truth� (John 14:6), the Word of God that we believe is �truth� (John 17:17), and the Holy Spirit who indwells our bodies is the very �Spirit of truth� (John 15:26).
The New Testament also uses other characteristics of the Christian life under this figure of walking. When a person is born again through faith in Christ and testifies of this by following the Lord in baptism, he or she is said to be raised to �walk in newness of life� (Romans 6:4).
Then, since the Holy Spirit has come to indwell our bodies, to comfort, guide, and constrain us as needed, we are exhorted to �walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh� (Galatians 5:16). Furthermore, we are commanded to �walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us� (Ephesians 5:2). This is not erotic love, of course, or even brotherly love, but unselfish agape love that sacrifices its own interests for the needs of others.
There are still more such exhortations. �Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time� (Colossians 4:5). Furthermore, we are to �walk in the light, as he is in the light� (1 John 1:7).
All of these and other similar admonitions can be summarized as simply following the example of Christ. �He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked� (1 John 2:6). �He that followeth me,� said Jesus our Lord, �shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life� (John 8:12). HMM
My Success Is about Him by Max Lucado With success comes a problem. Just ask Nadab, Elah, and Omri. Or interview Ahab, Ahaziah, or Jehoram. Ask these men to describe the problem of success. I would, you might be thinking, if I knew who they were. My point, exactly. These are men we should know. They were kings of Israel. They ascended to the throne... but something about the throne brought them down. Their legacies are stained with blood spilling and idol worship. They failed at success. They forgot both the source and purpose of their success.
You won�t be offered a throne, but you might be offered a corner office, a scholarship, an award, a new contract, a pay raise. You won�t be given a kingdom to oversee, but you might be given a home or employees or students or money or resources. You will, to one degree or another, succeed.
And when you do, you might be tempted to forget who helped you do so. Success sabotages the memories of the successful. Kings of the mountain forget who carried them up the trail.
The man who begged for help in medical school ten years ago is too busy to worship today. Back when the family struggled to make ends meet, they leaned on God for daily bread. Now that there is an extra car in the garage and a jingle in the pocket, they haven�t spoken to him in a while. In the early days of the church, the founding members spent hours in prayer. Today the church is large, well attended, well funded. Who needs to pray?
Success begets amnesia. Doesn�t have to, however. God offers spiritual ginseng to help your memory. His prescription is simply, �Know the purpose of success.� Why did God help you succeed? So you can make him known.
Why are you good at what you do? For your comfort? For your retirement? For your self-esteem? No. Deem these as bonuses, not as the reason. Why are you good at what you do? For God�s sake. Your success is not about what you do. It�s all about him--his present and future glory.
Overcoming Obstacles
Joshua 6:1-5
The Lord has a beautiful plan for each believer�s life. But to thwart God�s purposes, Satan sprinkles obstacles in our path.
There are many types of hindrances, such as a difficult boss, contrary family members, and financial trouble. Anything that blocks a desired goal can cause anxiety and great frustration. But remember that no obstacle can touch you without God�s consent.
Consider Joshua�s army, which was no match for Jericho�s military. And the great wall protecting that city was an impossible barrier to cross. Yet God had promised the Israelites the land, and Joshua believed. He wasn�t fazed by what seemed unconquerable. Instead, he acknowledged the Lord�s power and sought His guidance.
Before Joshua even realized that God was at work, the Lord was preparing the city for destruction by instilling fear into kings throughout the region. Heaven�s directions included an unlikely battle plan, but because Joshua obeyed, God�s people triumphed.
Waiting can be difficult. And after a while, we might even begin to wonder if God will do anything at all--then it is easy to quit. But, as was true with Joshua, God has gone before us and is preparing the way. No matter how He chooses to handle the problem, His solution is always in our best interest.
Whenever you face an obstacle, you may experience great heartache. But even in the midst of pain, you can have full confidence in God. The most important part of each day is the time you spend alone with the Lord. He will encourage you with His love and give direction.
Proven Faith
You won�t be offered a throne, but you might be offered a corner office, a scholarship, an award, a new contract, a pay raise. You won�t be given a kingdom to oversee, but you might be given a home or employees or students or money or resources. You will, to one degree or another, succeed.
And when you do, you might be tempted to forget who helped you do so. Success sabotages the memories of the successful. Kings of the mountain forget who carried them up the trail.
The man who begged for help in medical school ten years ago is too busy to worship today. Back when the family struggled to make ends meet, they leaned on God for daily bread. Now that there is an extra car in the garage and a jingle in the pocket, they haven�t spoken to him in a while. In the early days of the church, the founding members spent hours in prayer. Today the church is large, well attended, well funded. Who needs to pray?
Success begets amnesia. Doesn�t have to, however. God offers spiritual ginseng to help your memory. His prescription is simply, �Know the purpose of success.� Why did God help you succeed? So you can make him known.
Why are you good at what you do? For your comfort? For your retirement? For your self-esteem? No. Deem these as bonuses, not as the reason. Why are you good at what you do? For God�s sake. Your success is not about what you do. It�s all about him--his present and future glory.
Overcoming Obstacles
Joshua 6:1-5
The Lord has a beautiful plan for each believer�s life. But to thwart God�s purposes, Satan sprinkles obstacles in our path.
There are many types of hindrances, such as a difficult boss, contrary family members, and financial trouble. Anything that blocks a desired goal can cause anxiety and great frustration. But remember that no obstacle can touch you without God�s consent.
Consider Joshua�s army, which was no match for Jericho�s military. And the great wall protecting that city was an impossible barrier to cross. Yet God had promised the Israelites the land, and Joshua believed. He wasn�t fazed by what seemed unconquerable. Instead, he acknowledged the Lord�s power and sought His guidance.
Before Joshua even realized that God was at work, the Lord was preparing the city for destruction by instilling fear into kings throughout the region. Heaven�s directions included an unlikely battle plan, but because Joshua obeyed, God�s people triumphed.
Waiting can be difficult. And after a while, we might even begin to wonder if God will do anything at all--then it is easy to quit. But, as was true with Joshua, God has gone before us and is preparing the way. No matter how He chooses to handle the problem, His solution is always in our best interest.
Whenever you face an obstacle, you may experience great heartache. But even in the midst of pain, you can have full confidence in God. The most important part of each day is the time you spend alone with the Lord. He will encourage you with His love and give direction.
Proven Faith
Faith is perhaps the most central element in the Christian life because it is the means by which we enter into salvation. But that�s only the beginning. From then onward, our faith--or lack of it--shapes our lives and determines what happens to us when the winds of adversity blow. Some Christians never lose their footing even in hurricane-force winds, but others are toppled by the slightest gust. To understand why this is true, we need to examine the source of our faith.
Inherited faith: If you grew up in a Christian home, you probably adopted some of the beliefs of your parents. This kind of godly foundation is a wonderful gift from the Lord, but eventually, each person must assume responsibility for his own beliefs.
Textbook faith: The Bible is the ultimate guide for establishing our beliefs. But that�s not the only source of influence. Books, preachers, teachers, and friends all impact our convictions. Our theology may in fact be sound, but faith is merely mental acceptance until it�s put to the test.
Proven Faith: Only when we trust the Lord through the fires of adversity will we have faith that can stand. It is no longer based on what others have told us or what we�ve accepted as true but on our firsthand experience of His faithfulness.
To evaluate your faith, consider how you react to adversity. Do you cling to the Lord or get angry at Him? Is your attitude one of rejoicing because He�s making you more like His Son, or are you bitter? No one can escape adversity, but those with proven faith will benefit from it.
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