In Galatians 2:20, the Apostle Paul states, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” This concept speaks to the core of what it means to follow Jesus and to experience a true relationship with the Father.
Identity
To be “crucified with Christ” is identification with Jesus in His death on the cross. This concept is not merely theoretical; it speaks to the reality of what happens when we follow Christ. It involves a change where the old self—marked by sin and separation from God—is put to death. In this sense, it represents a fresh start, a new beginning in our life
Freedom
One of the most powerful implications of being crucified with Christ is the freedom it brings from the power of sin. As Christians, we believe that through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are no longer bound by our sinful nature. Instead, we are free to live in a way that reflects God’s love and righteousness. Romans 6:6 emphasizes this by stating, “We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with.” This freedom allows us to break free from guilt and shame, and serve God with everything in us!
Change
Being crucified with Christ also speaks to the transformation that occurs in our lives. When we follow Christ, we are not only forgiven but also made new. This transformation is an ongoing process, allowing us to reflect Christ’s character in our lives. The Spirit works within us, producing the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, etc. Crucify yourself with Christ, and what used to define you will be no more. You are a totally new person in Christ!
Perspective
Living out the truth of being crucified with Christ requires daily surrender. It means recognizing that life is no longer about our own desires but about living in accordance with God’s will. This surrender can be challenging, but it is essential for spiritual growth. It forces us to let go of our worries and fears, trusting that God is in control.
Ultimately, being crucified with Christ calls for a life of faith. It means trusting in Jesus for every aspect of life, knowing that He is present and active. Living by faith helps us to navigate life’s uncertainties with hope and confidence, rooted in the promises of God.
It’s not hard in today’s world to find things that discourage us. There are plenty of things that can bring us down. At times it really does feel like wherever we go, whatever we do, or say, there is something ready to discourage us. Unfortunately, people can be those roadblocks as well. That’s far from what we as Christians are called to do.
It was important in the days of the early church to encourage one another. So important that God commands it. It was important to God then – its important now. Thankfully we have blessings such as the church and our church family to help us through those discouraging times. How do we go about finding ways to encourage each other? Is it the way we speak or how we live, or is it in our faith? Is it all the above? The fellowship we have with our friends, our family, along with worshipping and singing praises, and studying God’s Word are just a few. These are blessings that we receive when we meet together no doubt, but let’s not contain our encouragements just to the assembly. Our everyday lives are just as important and those around us everywhere need to feel encouraged regularly. I just want to share briefly a few examples of what the Bible says about encouraging others and ways we can do just that.
Encouraging others is important, it’s necessary, it’s a command. Paul was one, if not the, most influential apostles of the first century church. He was a great teacher, preacher, mentor, and guess what? He was great at encouraging people. At the beginning of most of his letters he would begin with words of praise and thanks. (1 Thess. 1:2-3,) (Phil. 1:3-8,) (1 Cor. 1:4-5) are a few examples. In (Romans 1:12) Paul writes that he longs to be with them so that they can encourage one another in the faith. These types of encouragements were part of his everyday life.
We can’t discuss encouragement without mentioning Barnabas, the “son of encouragement.” He is mentioned several times in the New Testament, but he wasn’t a main character like Paul – he played a smaller, but still very important role. Paul spent his early life persecuting Christians. The people of the first churches, as well as the disciples feared this man, and rightfully so. After he became a Christian, the disciples didn’t believe he was one of them, so what did Barnabas do? He encouraged Paul by standing up for him in Jerusalem (Acts 9:26-31). He was a fellow missionary with Paul, Mark, Titus, and others. He encouraged those in Antioch to remain faithful in the Lord with steadfast purpose, (Acts 11:23.) Paul and Barnabas visited these churches, they taught, and they lived out their teachings. They encouraged them in their works and through their faith. They instilled hope, strengthening the church’s faith. (1Thessalonians 5:11) – Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. We can all benefit from their examples.
Let’s face it, life is hard at times. Certain situations bring us discouragement and can distort and change our thinking. Who wouldn’t want to be encouraged and uplifted in these hard times? It might not seem like a big deal to some, but kind words of encouragement and praise could make all the difference in the world. (Proverbs 16:24) – Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. (Proverbs 12:25) -Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. We shouldn’t be surprised that little things like sending a card or giving a compliment, sending a text message, phone call or email, could make a big difference. How underrated but so appreciated those things can be! It’s hard not to smile and be filled with some kind of encouragement if someone messages you to say they’ve missed you, and been thinking about you, been praying for you. Check in on those you haven’t seen recently – Invite someone new to dinner – someone not typically in your crowd or someone new to the church. Practice hospitality as it says in (Romans 12:13.) Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor, (Romans 12:10.)
When we encourage people we show our love, compassion, understanding, and we give them hope. It helps reset our minds, builds our confidence in each other, and allows us to see God more clearly. More than anything we are showing others how we live our faith just as Paul and Barnabas did. We show we want to be like Christ and people can see God through our actions towards them. Encouragement is powerful! Just remember that sometimes the smallest things can have the biggest impacts.
Recently, Kathy and I were walking through the beautiful Fairview Cemetery, with its over 1,000 graves. There are well-known people buried there, like Duncan Hines, confederate general William Perry, members of the powerful Underwood family, and congressman William Natcher (for whom the Kentucky parkway is named). According to our friend and renowned church historian, Scott Harp, such restoration movement figures as James Harding, M.L. Moore, and Benjamin Franklin Rogers are also buried there, as well as those later well-known to our brotherhood like Raymond Hazelip and J. Pettey Ezell.
But, I was struck by some things I saw on the headstones of seemingly ordinary “residents” we encountered along our walk. They suggest a view that there is more to the person than what lies beneath that patch of ground. They also echo true ideas from Scripture.
“We will meet again.” Those who have gone are not gone forever. We may not see them physically on this earth again, but Scripture speaks of the occasion where we all will be gathered before the throne of judgment (Mat. 25:31-34). Fellowship with one another is implied in various activities in which we will engage and glimpses we get of those who have gone beyond the grave (Rev. 21:3; 22:3). Certainly, our songs express an anticipation that we will see each other again.
“His work lives on.” Think of how that is certainly true, even in the secular realm. Scholarships and endowments are set up in the name of and to honor those who have died. Many wealthy donors have their names on buildings in cities, universities, and businesses long after they have died (Rockefeller Plaza, J.P. Morgan; George Washington has 127 places named after him and Abraham Lincoln has 70). The Bible tells us that though Abel is dead, he still speaks through his obedient faith (Heb. 11:4). John hears the blessed assurance from heaven that those who die in the Lord may rest from their labors, “but their works follow them” (Rev. 14:13). All of us are leaving a posthumous legacy.
“Beloved father, son, and friend.” Variations of this can be found in this and other cemeteries. It is a reminder that we are making and building relationships. How will they be remembered? In what way are we impacting and influencing those who will follow after us? God makes us stewards over various areas of life, and we touch others’ lives. Paul writes, “For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself” (Rom. 14:7).
We are audibly speaking now, But even from the grave, we will continue to speak. What are we writing with our lives? They will be read when we have died!
One of our young people who was recently baptized asked Kathy to help her solve a mystery that perplexed her to no end. Her Bible class teacher took her and the other students on a tour of the building, ingeniously including a trip to the baptistery and baptismal preparation room. Among the towels, garments, and other items, she noticed two black, curly wigs hanging on the wall. Her question for Kathy was, “Why are those wigs hanging there?” Kathy’s wise answer is that they were probably put there a long time ago, perhaps for older women getting baptized whose hair was brittle or thin. They might have looked baldish when they came up out of the water with wet hair, and the wig would disguise that. Yet, between them, Kathy and Kamdyn could not completely solve the conundrum.
Sometimes we have “wigs” hanging around. They may be traditions that were started in other times for specific reasons. You may have seen communion covered by runners or tablecloths going back to times when buildings didn’t have air conditioners and the cloth was used to keep the flies off. The circumstances changed, but the cover remained.
There are many traditions we honor that are fine and acceptable, but which are only expedients and may be a mystery to our young, new Christians, visitors, and the like. That is not to disparage them, but it is to say that we should be ready to discuss them. Whether that is standing before a song or Scripture reading, leading a specific number of songs before prayer, having an invitation at the end of a sermon, having the Lord’s Supper before the sermon (or vice versa), ending worship with a prayer or a song (Mat. 26:30), the way those leading in worship enter the auditorium, or any number of habits and customs congregations settle into, we should never let these simply settle into our subconsciousness.
Periodically, it’s good to explain and discuss these whether in brief form during the course of our services, at greater length in a Bible class on hermeneutics (Bible interpretation) or another textual or topical class, and certainly in one-on-one conversations.
It is also good to ask if and how we might vary or alter some of these customs, periodically or even permanently. There are acts of worship we are commanded to engage in each Lord’s Day (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2), but for how long and in what order? The Word of God is to be reverenced, but does standing inherently do that? What the people did in response to Ezra was spontaneous, and they followed it up by bowing low with their faces to the ground (Neh. 8:5-6).
Let’s remember that these traditions are good, or at least they are neutral. The point is to keep them from becoming mysteries hanging on the walls of our faith or our worship. Let’s continually ask what we are doing and why.
Every normally functioning person is acutely aware of something wrong within them. Most people subconsciously or consciously understand that they’re horribly wrong somehow. Historically we’ve tried to fix this in different ways. The Pharisees and Sadducees are two archetypal mentalities among religious people — one extreme goes to the right and mandates excessive behavioral restrictions in an attempt to earn God’s favor through what is not far from asceticism. The other side says, “What’s the point in dwelling on it?” and mostly ignore the problem.
The problem with both groups is that they cannot control their bodies’ enslavement to sin. Paul warns against the legalist and traditionalist by saying, “These rules may seem to be wise as part of a made-up religion in which people pretend to be humble and punish their bodies. But they don’t help people stop doing the evil that the sinful self wants to do” (Col 2.23). He warns against those who show no self restraint when he said, “So do you think we should keep sinning so that God will give us more and more grace? Of course not!” (Rom 6.1).
Right now reality is enslaved to death. Death is still a thing because sin is still a thing. Death was not a part of earth’s reality until sin was. Sin introduced death to earth, and it hasn’t left us since. Sin is a proof that we will die — everyone carries that proof because everyone is going to die at some point.
We carry a different proof with us, though. We still have the proof of sin because we’re all still going to die (Hb 9.27). But we also carry proof of immortality. Paul makes it very clear in I Corinthians 15 that our death is no different from a seed being planted. It is planted as one thing, it comes back to life as something much more impressive. So death is imminent for each person because of sin, but our death brings us life! Just like sin is transcendent proof of imminent death, grace is transcendent proof of imminent immortality!
Of course, we know that preachers are people but sometimes some may have a picture that preachers have super-spiritual abilities when tempted or troubled or that preachers don’t face the same challenges everyone else does. Paul reverses focus from Corinth (chapters eight and nine) to himself in what we identify as chapter ten. His words serve as a good reminder, first for preachers themselves but also for others who view the preacher. What important truths does Paul reveal here?
PREACHERS WONDER HOW THEY ARE COMING ACROSS (1-2)
Paul sought to urge them with Christ’s meekness and gentleness, but he appears to wonder if that was how they perceived him (1). He was concerned about what tone he would have to take when he saw them, between having some unnamed critics and risking his relationship with the church as a whole (2). While some preachers appear to relish the rebuke and scold approach, they are a distinct minority. Yet, every preacher labors under a divine order to “not shrink from declaring…anything…profitable” (Acts 20:20) and “not shrink from declaring…the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). That includes some challenging subjects, and preachers want to be faithful to that while obeying Paul’s instructions to be kind rather than quarrelsome, correcting with gentleness (2 Tim. 2:24-25).
PREACHERS ARE AT WAR WITH THE DEVIL (3-6)
I know preachers who served in the military, and they no doubt have greater personal appreciation for Paul’s military metaphor. Our warfare is not against the flesh, but our weapons mighty before God (3-4). Part of our work is destructive (4-5) and aggressive (5-6). There is a readiness and activeness as a part of this work (5-6). We are not at war with members or other preachers. Paul will say in verse eight that his God-given work was for building them up and not tearing them down (8). But, when we stand against the devil, we know that we may have to stand against those who are ignorant of his schemes (2:11) and led astray by his craftiness (11:3). Yet, we should never relish this part of our work!
PREACHERS WANT TO BE UNDERSTOOD & ACCEPTED (7-11)
Paul knew what his critics said about him. They attacked not only his “preaching style” (cf. 11:6) but even his appearance (10). But, Paul hoped his writing and his words would help these brethren see his heart and better understand where he was coming from and who he was trying to be. I think the vast majority of preachers want that same thing. Each of us has plenty of quirks and flaws, in style and even personality, that become crosses we bear. However, our confidence is that most brethren are so charitable and can see past those impediments (4:7) and allow God to work through our imperfections to his glory.
PREACHERS WILL BE JUDGED AGAINST WHAT IS RIGHT, NOT AGAINST OTHER PREACHERS OR CHRISTIANS (12-18)
It is apparently an ancient practice for preachers to measure their own success by what others have accomplished. Who’s had more influence, baptisms, speaking engagements, local church growth, debates, books and articles published, recognition, etc.? It sounds pretty petty when read in print, doesn’t it? How much does God care about that?
Paul writes, “We are not so bold to class or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves; but when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding” (12). “But he who boasts is to boast in the Lord (Jer. 9:24; he also quotes this in 1 Cor. 1:31). For it is not he who commends himself that is approved, but he whom the Lord commends” (17-18). Let that resonate and sink down into my heart. God is the only measuring stick that matters. Our consuming obsession must be with being good stewards of the opportunities He puts in our laps (13).
Most preachers do not enter preaching for financial gain, fame and glory, or as an outlet for some frustration. We love the church, love God, love the lost, and love His Word. But, it is easy for anyone to lose their way or forget their original intentions. After all, we have our own struggles in the flesh and deal with our own humanity (12:7; Rom. 7:14ff). Some of God’s people may need the reminder of 2 Corinthians 10, and even more preachers may need it. Thank God for His wisdom, who was “pleased… through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe” (1 Cor. 1:21).
We remind ourselves that chapter breaks are an artificial addition inserted many centuries after the Bible books were written. This chapter is a prime example. Paul is drawing a conclusion in verse one based on what he’s said in 5:16-21. As God “appealed” to the Corinthians through Paul and Timothy (5:20), Paul makes an “appeal” to them not to receive God’s grace in vain (1)–another way of expressing the reconciliation process Paul has just detailed in the last several verses. As the messengers of this reconciliation and grace, Paul again sets out to defend their work and their motives.
He asserts, “We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry” (3). We don’t know all the reasons why their ministry faced fault-finders, but most who actively serve the Lord will have plenty of detractors. Paul’s opponents resorted to some pretty nitpicking and petty criticisms (see 10:10). I have had the displeasure of hearing elders, deacons, other preachers, and church workers come under fire from self-appointed spiritual analysts, and it usually tells me more about the critic than the criticized. But how much good work has been unfairly tainted by hypercritical people? Moved by the Holy Spirit, Paul goes to the trouble to counter these unnamed “analysts.”
THEY WERE EARNEST IN THEIR APPEAL (1-2)
Seeing themselves as God’s ambassadors (5:20), they urged the Corinthians not to throw away the great gift of salvation they had received (1). He quotes Isaiah 49:3, where Isaiah also feels like his words were falling on deaf ears and he himself was rejected (49:1-6), to remind them of how precious this salvation is (2). Paul is affirming that they were engaged in ministry to help the Corinthians successfully cross the spiritual finish line. It was urgent! They cared about them.
THEY WERE MINDFUL OF THEIR INFLUENCE (3-9)
In no other letter does Paul so specifically and so frequently refer to the price he paid for serving Christ (see also 4:8ff; 11:23ff; 12:10). He was mindful of not just his exhortation, but just as much his example. So they commend themselves “in every way” (4): he lists ten difficulties (4-5), nine spiritual attributes (6-7), and eight contrasting situations (8-10). They put their work and their character under the microscope, asking the Corinthians to consider their faithful discharge of their divine duty. They understood that souls and eternal destinies were at stake, so they pursued their work with great carefulness. We do well to be mindful of our example and our efforts to win people to Christ and help them mature in Him, too!
THEY WERE GENUINE IN THEIR AFFECTION (11-13)
Paul was moved by more than his duty to God. He unashamedly declares his affection for these Christians. While he felt they had not always reciprocated his affections, he humbled himself to ask that they open their hearts as wide to him and he and his coworkers had to them.
More times than I can count, I have seen elders serve from sincere motives, spending hours and expending emotion, to help a struggling brother or sister only to have these men’s love and motives unfairly questioned. The same is true of other, hardworking Christians. Our job is to strive to live above reproach knowing we will be unfairly criticized. It is also important for the critic to take personal inventory, asking if they have considered the spiritual consequences of their maligning. When we all decide to pull together and work for the same important goals, so much more gets accomplished! If you’ve faced unfair criticism, remember that God has a perfect record of your deeds. Even if others misunderstand, God doesn’t!
Juliet’s poignant line, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet,” from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, delves into the profound influence of names on identity and perception. This metaphor underscores that a name does not define the essence of a thing or person. In the play’s context, Juliet ponders over Romeo’s last name, Montague, associated with her family’s rival house. She asserts that his true self would remain unchanged even if Romeo had a different name. This argument posits that a name is merely a label without impacting a person’s or thing’s inherent qualities or worth.
Lawmakers in Maryland are proposing a solution to an environmental problem by changing the name of an invasive fish species known for damaging the local ecosystem. The snakehead fish, currently unpopular as a food source, could become more attractive to consumers if given a more appealing name. This example raises interesting questions about the power of names and labels in shaping our perceptions. The lawmakers suggest renaming the fish “Chesapeake Channa” to emphasize its connection to the Chesapeake waters where it currently resides. The aim is to rebrand the invasive species and replace its negative connotations with a more positive image. Given that snakeheads taste delicious, Maryland’s campaign may prove successful. This case illustrates how a simple name change can significantly alter our perception of an object, in this case, a fish.
Juliet’s perspective that a name is a label with no influence on the intrinsic qualities of an object is worth considering. It suggests that intrinsic attributes hold more significance than the names or labels we assign. This viewpoint allows for tactics like renaming a fish to enhance its appeal. However, what if a person or thing’s name reflects their identity and purpose? In such cases, it would be unwise to alter the name. This rose must remain a rose. This caution underscores the responsibility we bear when considering such changes.
Peter reminds us that a name holds significant meaning. In 1 Peter 4.16, he implies that if someone faces persecution, it should be solely because of their faith. For instance, if authorities punish a person for stealing, it does not count as persecution. Those to whom God has given the correction’s instrument should treat the offender lawfully, as mentioned in Romans 13. So Peter says, “But if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name” (1 Peter 4.16 NASB95). Though it appears only three times in the New Testament, the term “Christian” came to describe a community of believers who followed Jesus Christ’s teachings and distinguished themselves from Jews and pagans. It is the new name God promised through His prophet, Isaiah (Isaiah 62.2).
As followers of Christ, it is crucial to identify ourselves as Christians. While being “spiritual” or “a believer” is not wrong, it does not define our identity as followers of Christ. To be faithful, we must fully embrace the responsibility that comes with the name “Christian.” This commitment involves living a life consistent with Jesus Christ’s teachings and values, actively following in His footsteps, being a part of a Christian community, and demonstrating love, compassion, and forgiveness in all aspects of our lives. Avoiding “Christian” may indicate a reluctance to accept the associated responsibility and accountability. By embracing our Christian identity, we respond to the call to serve as Jesus’ hands and feet.
In the end, while names and labels can sometimes be arbitrary or misleading, there are cases where a name carries deep significance and meaning, intricately tied to identity and purpose. Just as Juliet recognized that Romeo’s value transcended his surname, and Peter emphasized the importance of embracing the Christian name, we must carefully consider when a name represents something core that should not be rebranded or obscured. A name like “Christian” is not just a label but a calling to embody the teachings of Christ through words and actions. So, while changing names can sometimes be helpful, we must also respect when a name holds profound meaning that should be upheld rather than discarded for pragmatic purposes. Distinguishing between these situations requires wisdom and care.
With so much moral confusion and corruption among the Corinthians, Paul had his hands full in addressing the various complications that arose in this congregation. Having already dealt with incest, homosexuality, fornication, and even spouses depriving one another, he moves on to another complicated matter. What do you do when your non-Christian spouse wants to abandon the marriage? What are your rights and restrictions?
Unfortunately, some have interpreted 1 Corinthians 7 as a passage giving one an additional “exception” to the Lord’s rule in Matthew 19:9 (this belief is often called “The Pauline Privilege”). Is Paul adding to the Lord’s teaching on marriage, divorce, and remarriage? If one’s spouse “deserts” them, is he or she free to remarry?
First, notice that Paul begins by reviewing just what the Lord said during His ministry (10-11). He signifies this by saying, “But to the married I give instructions, not I but the Lord….” (10). In other words, Paul reviews what the Lord taught as recorded by Matthew (19:1-12). It is a summary of that passage. Keep in mind that anything Paul subsequently says cannot contradict what the Lord taught in His ministry on the subject. Everything Paul says here must be understood in the light of how he begins–“stay married, but if you divorce, remain unmarried or be reconciled to the husband you divorced.”
Second, notice that Paul is dealing with something the Lord did not address in His earthly ministry. That’s what Paul means when he says, “But to the rest I say, not the Lord…” (12). Paul addresses an apparent concern for Christians in a pagan society like Corinth (our nation would be a lot more like Corinth than Jerusalem!). Paul delves into what a Christian ought to do who is married to an unbeliever. He begins with the scenario that the unbeliever is okay with staying married to the Christian. In that case, there is nothing to do. Do not leave them if they want to remain married (13-14).
Then, he discusses a scenario where the unbeliever is not okay with staying married to the Christian. A spouse would then be in a quandary, deciding whether or not to stay with Christ or choose the unbelieving mate (15). Paul is saying, your duty to your husband does not outweigh your duty to Christ. If they force you into that choice, choose Christ. Some try to make the word “bondage” in this verse refer to the marriage bond, believing Paul to say you are free to remarry. Paul is using that word throughout this paragraph to speak of being enslaved, not to speak of being married (“bondage” is found in eight New Testament verses; the other seven–Acts 7:6, Rom. 6:18,22, 1 Cor. 9:19, Gal. 4:3, Ti. 2:3, and 2 Pet. 2:19–all mean “to make someone a slave”; that’s what Paul is saying here. Paul uses the word for “marry” several times in this chapter, a different word with a different meaning altogether).
Third, understand the rest of this paragraph in light of what Paul has already said. He is not allowing people to do something which, as he has already pointed out, the Lord explicitly forbad. His words in 1 Corinthian 7:15-24 do not give a person an additional reason to divorce and remarry. Paul is illustrating with the circumcision analogy what he has just taught in verses 13-14.
There is nothing in this context or any other passage that teaches that non-Christians who obey the gospel and are in an unscriptural marriage can remain in that condition. He is simply using multiple means to make a singular point: “Do not become enslaved to man’s will because you belong to Christ.” Do not choose your spouse over Christ. If they threaten to leave you if you don’t leave Christ, you must stay faithful to Christ.
Sin brings complications. No relationship must be honored or prioritized over Christ. When a Christian is married to a non-Christian, he or she is to do everything possible to win the non-Christian spouse (cf. 1 Pet. 3:1ff). As Paul says, ” For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?” (16). That’s the ideal. But in less than ideal situations, always choose Christ!
Unity is not instinctive, or else we would not have so much instruction about it in the Bible. Paul clarifies why he is and is not writing this letter to them. He says it is not to shame them, but rather to admonish them (14). Admonish means to provide instruction in order to correct a behavior or belief (to provide instruction as to correct behavior and belief (Louw-Nida 414). It also carries with it the idea of counseling against improper actions. That sounds pretty negative unless you see how Paul does it. He writes like a father (15) to his beloved children (14). I don’t know about you, but I can endure quite a bit of correction from someone who I am convinced is doing so out of genuine love and interest in my soul.
Paul was in a unique position among other voices of influence, in that he had actually been the one to teach many of them the gospel and help bring about their salvation (15). A “tudor” in New Testament times was more a person who led a student to and from school, who also supervised the student’s conduct (BDAG 748). Paul contrasts himself with that, and you can see a huge difference between someone hired to look over your shoulder as opposed to a loving parent who had a vested interest in your success.
Paul’s interest in their spiritual success is further proven by the measures he takes to see to it these Christians were reminded of what he taught them. First, Paul sends one whom he has taught and trained (Acts 16:1ff) and who actually worked with Paul among them at the beginning of the church’s existence (Acts 18:5ff). Timothy was going to do follow up study with them to help remind them of the apostle’s inspired instruction (17). For Christians to have their best shot at success, they will need to hear the same subjects from “the whole purpose of God” (Acts 20:27) on many occasions.
Peter will write to another audience and say, “Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you” (2 Pet. 1:12). He goes on to say “I am writing to you” for the purpose of “stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder” (2 Pet. 3:1). Why preach and teach about worship, gender roles, sexual morality, baptism, marriage, self-control, attitude, evangelism, and the like year after year? Simply because we forget, new Christians are added to the kingdom, young people come of age and need to learn what we already know, and external pressures and rival teaching can tempt us to abandon the truth. Paul, knowing this, was ready to personally and through other teachers make this effort to help Corinth, like Colosse, “continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not move away from the hope of the gospel” (Col. 1:23).
Biblical instruction is also key to provide attitude adjustment. Arrogance had shown its ugly head at Corinth (6,18-19). Do you know who Paul says has to really work at fighting arrogance? Those who have knowledge, especially knowledge without love (8:1; 13:2). Paul understood the true nature of God’s kingdom (20), and this motivated him to do whatever was necessary to further their knowledge but also their application of their knowledge (21). Look ahead in chapter five at what Paul is about to write the Corinthians. They are arrogantly embracing someone who was living in egregious sin (5:1-2). They knew better, but they were not doing better!
Instruction is about way more than Bible stories, facts, and memory verses. It is about letting the word live in your heart, keeping it in your heart, and living it in your life. How does God get that done? Through continued teaching, over and over again. What does God accomplish through it? Among the many personal benefits it yields an individual, it also helps produce and preserve unity in truth! May we never buy into the idea that growth requires abandoning God’s pattern and plan in order to appease people’s fleshly desires.
When I thought about the phrase, I wondered if it might have an origin connected to war. It was the product of the War Advertising Council’s public service ads in World War II to prevent indiscreet communication which might give away secrets to the enemy (click here ). My shop teacher, Chief Canady, used to admonish us with a variation: “Lippity lip sinks the ship!”
Unguarded talk. No filter. In the brain, out the mouth. There are different ways to say it, but so often it is a destructive weapon that torpedoes relationships and fractures trust. It can also be blind to the circumstances and experiences of others. When we’re so eager to express our opinions and vehemently state our positions, our words can cause blunt force trauma! Proverbs repeatedly warns about this. In fact, it is one of the major themes of the entire book. Consider just a sample:
“When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise” (10:19).
“There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, But the tongue of the wise brings healing” (12:18).
“The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin” (13:3).
“The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, But the mouth of fools spouts folly” (15:2).
“The wise in heart will be called understanding, And sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness” (16:21).
“A worthless man digs up evil, While his words are like scorching fire” (16:27).
“He who restrains his words has knowledge, And he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips, he is considered prudent” (17:27-28).
“A fool’s lips bring strife, And his mouth calls for blows. A fool’s mouth is his ruin, And his lips are the snare of his soul” (18:6-7).
“He who guards his mouth and his tongue, Guards his soul from troubles” (21:23).
“Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him” (29:20).
This is just the hem of the garment of all God through Solomon, Agur, and Lemuel have to say about the power of words for good or evil (18:21). Let us be careful about how we talk in the presence of the impressionable, new Christians, children and young people, those with a sinful past, and the hurting (Luke 17:1-2). That does not mean constantly walking on egg shells, but it also does not mean constantly cavorting like a bull in a China shop (Eph. 4:29). Let us give thoughts to our words from private conversations to water cooler topics to Bible class comments. When we combine self-awareness with others-awareness, surely this will color our speech and produce lips that do not sink ships (or souls!).
As a global learner, I enjoy having background noise serve as the soundtrack to my life. It could be music or a talking head providing news or opinions. I can block out the details and rely on the background noise to keep me going. In addition to learning strategies, individuals with ADHD like myself find certain grooves oddly exhilarating, similar to an energy drink. I frequently run errands on Thursdays each week, and this week was no exception. Therefore, it was inevitable that I would have my “symphony” supporting me. Amid the hustle and bustle, I heard a headline stating that more than half of American “clergy” have considered quitting since 2020 (see Blair, 2024).
Whenever I encounter such information, I look into it further. After I finished my errands, I looked up an article about the subject online. For the sake of brevity, the study concluded that the changing religious landscape following the pandemic was the primary source of discontent. These “clergy” have claimed that the pandemic has made it more difficult for them to interact with congregations and that the decline in in-person attendance depresses them. According to the demographics of those surveyed, the so-called Silents (born 1925–1945) and Generation X (born 1965–1980) are less likely to want to quit than Millenials (born 1981–1996) and Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964). Catholic and Orthodox ministers were less likely to feel this way than Protestants.
These attention-grabbing headlines no doubt fill our hearts with existential dread. However, we must realize Jesus’ promise that even death could not prevail against His Church (Matthew 16.18). One knows that regardless of how dire things in the world may seem, there are always those not bowing the knee to Baal (1 Kings 19.18). Hence, Satan could be the author of such headlines designed to discourage the faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. Satan whispers, “You are all alone in your devotion. And would a loving God truly expect you to shoulder these burdens alone?”
But lest we grow too comfortable, we are reminded of Jesus’ words following the Parable of the Unjust Judge, also known as The Persistent Widow (Luke 18.1–8). Jesus asked, “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” I know that contextually, Jesus is asking if His followers will have the faith to pray. At least, other preachers often say this as they exegete Luke 18.8. Well, yes. But is it so tidily summed up in the one word “prayer”? Jesus’ question is whether people will continue to believe and be faithful, even in the face of delays or challenges, just as the widow was persistent in her pursuit of justice. As a result, we can interpret this verse as an encouragement to keep the faith and pray, even when justice appears slow, or God’s promises appear delayed. It expresses a theme of perseverance and faithfulness in the Christian life, particularly in light of Jesus’ return.
Jesus expressed concern about whether He would find faithful followers upon His return. The followers can show their faithfulness to Him by exercising their faith through prayer. Unfortunately, people prefer tangible things over intangible ones, leading to practical materialism and a lack of faith. Additionally, scientific advancements may encourage disbelief by providing natural explanations. The hurried, self-centered, and financially motivated nature of the modern age can also undermine faith, which requires quiet contemplation. Faith is a moral quality rooted in the heart, not just an intellectual asset. It grows by living a righteous life, feeding on Biblical promises, and putting one’s limited faith into practice. Therefore, building faith requires setting aside regular quiet time for meditation and communing with God. Faith progresses through continual moral effort.
We are currently living in a time where people are hesitant to return to the Church after the pandemic, which was a time of isolation and a shift in priorities for many. In addition, those who provide moral leadership face challenges, feeling a growing temptation to step away from their roles. This combination of factors is worrisome in response to our Lord’s probing question in Luke 18.8. This study paints a concerning picture of the future of spiritual commitment and the resilience of faith communities.
However, despite these challenges, there remains a beacon of hope. The persistence of faith, even in a few, can be a powerful testament to the enduring nature of spiritual commitment. In the face of adversity, the true strength of faith often emerges, not just in the tranquility of prosperous times but in the tumult of trials. To answer Jesus’ question and reaffirm enduring faith and commitment, faith communities must explore ways to nurture resilience and adapt and thrive.
In today’s world, we face various challenges that can test the foundations of our faith communities. Distractions and the effects of global pandemics can make it difficult to hold onto our beliefs. However, these challenges can also provide opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal. Jesus’ question in Luke 18.8 invites us to deepen our faith, pray more persistently, and live out our beliefs with renewed vigor and commitment. As believers, we all have a unique role in this ongoing faith journey. Instead of seeing our challenges as insurmountable obstacles, let us embrace them as catalysts for strengthening our collective resolve. Doing so ensures that Jesus will find a thriving and active faith on earth when He returns.
The Adam’s Apple takes its name from a Jewish myth which states that God caused the forbidden apple to become lodged in Adam’s throat after swallowing. In reality, the Adam’s Apple is made up of the thyroid cartilage and is the same tissue that makes up your nose, ears, and windpipe (i.e., trachea). The voice box and windpipe have several kinds of cartilage, which work together to make sure your airways stay clear and that you’re able to speak.
Ironically enough, one of Adam’s biggest failures in the garden had to do with his speech— or lack of it. Adam should have spoken up when his wife first spoke with the serpent. He should have said something or perhaps even grabbed her hand and walked elsewhere as they headed towards the forbidden tree. He certainly should have spoken up when the serpent offered her the fruit. Genesis gives us a small detail that almost places the blame squarely on Adam.
“She gave to her husband who was there with her…” Genesis 3.6
Adam was there! So why didn’t he speak up? Today men can fall into this same sin of silence. Just because an argument could be made that Adam was setting the right example by not eating the fruit himself (at first), there’s more to spiritual leadership than simply not doing something wrong. Maybe Adam didn’t see any obligation to speak on behalf of Eve? Maybe he was convinced by the serpent himself. Either way the bottom line is this, a lack of spiritual leadership in our congregations and homes will lead to sin. If the serpent is allowed to speak to our families through music, media, or any other medium— the consequences are the same. There’s a fall. Spiritual leadership requires more from men than just avoiding sin ourselves, it must include actively guiding our families away from what’s forbidden. It demands our full time attention.
The “good news” is that Jehoram, the son of Ahab, was not AS BAD as his father and mother (2 Kings 3:2), but that was little consolation. He still “did evil in the sight of the Lord” (2) and “clung to the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which he made Israel sin; he did not depart from them” (3). Like his older brother, Ahaziah, he had a political and military mess on his hands. The king of Moab, Mesha (4), rebelled against Israel after Ahab’s death, and Jehoram mustered his military while leaning on a new ally, Judah, to join them in going to war with their neighbors. For good measure, they traveled through the oft-unfriendly territory of their cousins, Edom, and the king of Edom joined them in the attempted rout of the Moabites.
But, in the route they took to meet the enemy, after a week the troops and cattle were suffering from a lack of water. Jehoram’s immediate reaction is to attribute this to divine punishment (10). But, Jehoshaphat exhorts his fretting northern counterpart, “Is there not a prophet of the Lord here, that we may inquire of the Lord by him?” (11). Will you notice the contrast in attitude toward faithful prophets that sets Jehoshaphat apart from the house of Ahab? Jehoshaphat held God’s spokesmen in such high regard (12). Remember Micaiah (1 Ki. 22:7). He respected the men and revered their word. But look at Jehoram. Does his servant reflect his contempt as he describes Elisha as the one who used to wash Elijah’s hands (11; 1 Ki. 19:21). In return, Elisha has complete disdain for Israel’s king but condescends to them on behalf of Judah’s righteous king, Jehoshaphat (12-19). Elisha works through the words of a minstrel to prophecy an incredible act of God to both water their men and animals and facilitate the destruction of Moab in an unthinkable way.
The miraculous induction of water came via Edom, filling the country with water (20). To the Moabites, the water appeared to glisten like blood. Their king made the reasonable deduction, given the turbulent history between Israel, Judah, and Edom, that they had turned on one another. He took this as an invitation to despoil his enemies (23-24). Only when he reached the camp of Israel did he and his army discover their fatal error. Israel and her allies handily defeat Moab and mar their land, and after one last-ditch effort to break through to Edom, King Mesha retreats to his citadel and offers his son, also his heir, as a burnt offering on the wall (27).
What do we learn from this unusual incident? Among the many potential lessons is one overriding reminder. God’s Word and will are sure. He cannot be thwarted, surprised, or overcome. He sees the end as the beginning (Isa. 46:10). He had already foretold the demise of Ahab’s house (1 Ki. 21:21-24). He not only foresaw what for man was the unforeseeable fate of Moab, but He produced it. He knew that Israel would persist in the ways of Jeroboam and would eventually reject Israel and allow her destruction (2 Ki. 17), but He was engineering the incarnation of His Son through Jehoshaphat’s lineage (cf. Mat. 1:8). Providentially, he protects the seed of David in times of war and peace until the Messiah descends through this family tree. There were human heroes throughout these centuries, kings like Jehoshaphat and prophets like Elisha, but they simply submitted to the sovereignty of Jehovah!
Today, God has promises yet to be fulfilled (Matt. 25; Rom. 8; 1 Thes. 4:13-18; 2 Pet. 3:9-13). It will happen as surely as these past events occurred. We have the choice to follow the legacy of the wicked like Ahab and Jehoram or the legacy of the righteous like Jehoshaphat and Elisha. If you stop and examine it, it’s not much of a choice, is it? Victory or defeat?
As we end one year and begin another we tend to think about how we have spent our time. My time management is questionable at times. I do a lot of things last minute, especially school work–mainly geometry. It is a reminder that we must use the time we have been given. It is more valuable than money. Money can be made again but time once lost, is gone forever. We must be intentional with how we spend our limited time. James 4:14 says “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? Even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”
Time is a gift. We make time for school, work, sports, video games, friends, and family. Are we making time for the most important things in life? How many minutes a day do we spend studying God’s word? For me, I could be doing better. It’s easy to let minutes wasted on my computer turn into hours.
How do we get a better understanding of how to best use our time? Matthew 22:37 says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” To do that we must
Put God first in our life. Romans 6:13 says, “Give yourselves to God, surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes.” So, keep our priorities straight. Matthew 6:33 tells us, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given unto you.” Seek him above all other things in our daily life.
If the axe is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed but wisdom brings success” (Ecclesiastes 10:10). We must use our time to strengthen our knowledge of God’s word. We need to work smarter in managing our time and completing tasks. Add our Bible study to our TO DO list. Put it at the top until it becomes a habit.
Make time spent on important things into a goal. Proverbs 16:9 says, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” At school they tell us to make SMART goals. We can use this in our Bible study life too. Specific goal, Measurable goal (how many minutes to read) , Action oriented- what am I doing to meet this time goal, Realistic- remember my actual attention span, and Timely- actually make progress. Share your goal with a friend and help each other.
Finally understand the limit of the time we are given. We are certainly not promised tomorrow (even if a teenager). Ephesians 5:15-17 tells us, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Are my time choices bringing me closer to the relationship?
I need to have with God. James 4:14 asks, “Why you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
The way you spend your time has eternal consequences. Maybe you have not made the best choices on how you spend your time. Maybe you need to make the most important decision of your time here on earth. If you haven’t made the decision to be baptized now is the perfect time. Or if you have any other need there is no better time than the present.
Maddox Wilson is one of two young men speaking on the Equipped Workshop, April 18-21, 2024, at the Lehman Avenue church of Christ.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus states a simple but profound truth: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matt. 7:7). This is a promise! For our particular focus, notice the middle promise. If you seek, you will find! Seeking implies striving to find for one’s own interest or advantage.
We often talk about someone who has yet to obey the gospel but who is looking as a seeker. That seems to be the thought shared by Jesus here. But seeking does not end at the baptistery steps. It is a lifestyle, an ongoing decision that may be challenged by distractions and substitutions. There are other things people seek–worldly wisdom (1 Cor. 1:22), their own righteousness (Rom. 10:3), self-interest (1 Cor. 10:24; 13:5; Phil. 2:21), pleasing men (Gal. 1:10), glory from men (1 Th. 2:6), and similar poor alternatives.
But God is seeking those who keep seeking Him and what He offers. This extends beyond the process of becoming His child. Various New Testament writers describe the seeking life.
Seek Christ’s kingdom above material things (Mat. 6:33).
Seek the glory and honor and immortality that God offers (Rom. 2:7).
Seek souls that can be saved (1 Cor. 10:33).
Seek to use your gifts for the strength of the whole church (1 Cor. 14:12).
Seek the realities of heaven (Col. 3:1).
Seek peace and pursue it (1 Pet. 3:11).
“The word implies serious effort, and can be used of seeking information (e.g., John 16:19) and of seeking to perform an action” (Luke 6:19)(Mangum, Lexham Theo. Wdbk., np). Have you ever searched for something valuable you owned but misplaced? The greater its value to you, the more intense and sustained your search. What Jesus offers is worth more to us than the whole world (cf. Mat. 16:26)! He wants us to have and keep a mindset that never ceases from serious effort to pursue. How can we be a daily seeker?
Include it in our daily prayers, that we will seek God’s will each and every day.
Be bold enough to make uncomfortable choices that accomplish His will.
Look for people who need His saving gospel and share Him!
Keep earthly interests and material things in their perspective, as tools to use for God’s glory and not idols to displace Him.
Put Him above every relationship, which means letting no relationship cause us to live contrary to His will or disobey His Word.
Do not let the world do our thinking for us on any moral, ethical, or similar issue.
Immerse ourselves in His Word, feeding and nourishing not only our soul but also our resolve.
Live joyfully, demonstrating thanksgiving for God’s good and perfect gifts.
It doesn’t matter how much bible knowledge a person has — if they don’t love other people, their knowledge is worthless (cf. I Cor 8.1; 13.1-3).
Hating a Christian brother or sister disqualifies a person from eternal life (I Jn 4.20).
Christianity has many gray-area freedoms that make some people uncomfortable. For either side of an issue: “Be willing to accept those who still have doubts about what believers can do. And don’t argue with them about their different ideas” (Rom 14.1).
And, “Why do you judge your brother or sister in Christ? Or why do you think that you are better than they are? We will all stand before God, and he will judge us all … So each of us will have to explain to God about the things we do” (Rom 14.10, 12).
And, “So we should stop judging each other. Let’s decide not to do anything that will cause a problem for a brother or sister or hurt their faith” (14.13).
And, “Don’t allow what is good for you to become something they say is evil” (16).
And, “Let’s try as hard as we can to do what will bring peace. Let’s do whatever will help each other grow stronger in faith” (19).
Finally, “You should keep your beliefs about these things a secret between yourself and God. It is a blessing to be able to do what you think is right without feeling guilty” (Rom 14.22).
Perhaps the biggest aspect of Jesus’s sacrifice was to become human and stay that way for our sake (cf. I Tim 2.5; Phil 3.20-21; I Jn 3.2-3). He is still human now, though in the kind of perfect body we’ll enjoy when he comes back for us.
God never calls Christians to publicly protest the evil behavior practiced by the world. In fact, he expects the opposite from his children (I Tim 2.1-4; I Cor 6.2; Rom 13.2; I Pt 2.11-17).
Even though his name wasn’t on the list of scheduled participants, you could tell the debate was centered on him. All of the candidates had no choice but to acknowledge his influence. Ironically, the show’s biggest winner wasn’t even there in person, though he certainly was in spirit.
I’m talking about Donald J. Trump, the 45th President of the United States. Trump, the current Republican frontrunner, opted out of the first debate of the 2024 presidential election cycle. He didn’t need to attend. The debate host, Fox News, repeatedly mentioned Trump’s absence and decision to skip the first debate. Many questions focused on Trump, including a request for a show of hands from those who would vote for him as the Republican nominee in 2024.
Although several candidates, like DeSantis, raised their hands cautiously, only Asa Hutchinson abstained. Moderator Bret Baier referred to Trump as “the elephant not in the room.” Even though Trump wasn’t there in person, he still managed to steal the show.
Preacherpollard.com isn’t a political blog; instead, the primary goal of this space is to delve into the Bible and talk about how to apply its teachings to daily life. Nonetheless, occasionally, mundane occurrences trigger spiritual musings. In this case, Trump’s conspicuous absence from the debate prompted such a notion on my part.
Archaeological discoveries and ancient history have always piqued my interest. Beginning in the late twentieth century, I began to notice an increase in the usage of “BCE” and “CE” instead of “BC” and “AD” in historical dating. I was initially perplexed, but I quickly realized that these titles meant “Before the Common Era” and “Common Era,” respectively. What, I thought, made this time “common”? The response, unsurprisingly, was Jesus Christ. The impact of His followers, notably in the West and its global financial influence, led to the worldwide adoption of this calendar system, often for economic objectives.
Although I was late to the party, the attempt to downplay Christ’s temporal relevance has historical antecedents. In the 17th century, Johannes Kepler referred to it as the “vulgar era,” where “vulgar” translates to “common” in Latin. Similarly, “BCE” and “CE” were used by a few scholars in the 1800s.
However, the 1990s saw an explosion in the adoption of these nontraditional words for dating. During this time, there was a broader shift toward diversity, multiculturalism, and secularism, particularly in academic contexts. Many textbook publishers and academic publications adopted the BCE/CE system to be more “inclusive” and “unbiased.” This nomenclature gradually became standard in textbooks, and eventually, museums adopted it.
The paradox is that the system isn’t more inclusive when Christ’s name is left out. The “common era” still has Him as its starting point. His absence only emphasizes His power, much like how our current calendar system, which has been in place for over 1500 years, finds it more convenient to change nomenclature than history.
Jesus Christ’s influence extends far beyond religious belief. He is also a historical figure. He has profoundly impacted global culture, values, and history, and we inseparably perceive time through Him. Whether or not one acknowledges it, His legacy has had and will continue to impact how people think about and experience time.
Thus, I remembered Him while noticing how another figure, a much more flawed and insignificant figure, was still the winner of a debate the latter won in absentia.“And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4.12 NASB)
FILLING IN FOR DALE THIS WEEK AS HE AND JANELLE WERE BUSY WITH THIS:
Jude Mitchell Pollard (born 8/20/23)
Neal Pollard
Luke shows us two demonstrations of Jesus’ power as He traverses the roads and villages of the northern half of Palestine during the early part of His public ministry. These show the diversity of Jesus’ work, even what He did simultaneously. This ultimate example of “multi-tasking” was performed for two situations that were about as opposite of each other as could be. Notice some of these contrasts in Luke 7:1-17:
The Centurion’s Servant
The Widow’s Son
The Centurion reaches out to Jesus (3)
Jesus reaches out to the widow (12-13)
The Centurion was already convinced of His power
The widow was seemingly oblivious to His power
The Centurion was rich and powerful (2,5,8)
A widow with no children had no prospect (12)
The servant is about to die (2)
The son is dead already (12)
Jesus marveled at the man’s faith (9)
Jesus felt compassion for the grieving mother (13)
The Centurion was a Gentile
Nain, a Galilean city, would be Jewish (12)
Jesus healed the servant from afar (6-10)
Jesus touched the coffin and raised the son (14)
Nothing is said of the people’s reaction (10)
The crowd fears and glorifies God (16-17)
Yet, Jesus is the thread that holds them both together. Whether He is responding to the faith of a devout Roman or responding to the grief of an indigent widow, He knew He could help and He was willing. He knew He had something to offer they could not find anywhere else. He is willing and able to transform sorrow into celebration. These events serve to spread good news about Him all around Him (17). People may not yet understand who He is, but these actions let them know He was no ordinary man or rabbi. Those in the funeral procession say, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” And, “God has visited His people!” (16). As glowing a tribute as this was, they didn’t yet grasp the full picture of Jesus. But, they knew He was special.
I think about the diverse people we see and know every day. They are black and white, young and old, male and female, rich and poor, educated and uneducated, natives and transplants. Perhaps you can take two people in your circle of influence and make up a column of contrasts like the one above. Despite their differences, they will be united by one significant thing. They need what only Jesus can give, and He can certainly give it to them. Whether they are actively seeking Him or unaware of their need of Him, you and I can forever change their life and circumstance when we introduce them to Jesus. May God help us to do that for someone today!
The Preacher Pollard Blog 