As I write this, the government shutdown is in day 33. This is two days short of the longest shutdown that spanned from December 2018 into late January, 2019. Both Republicans and Democrats refuse to surrender their positions, each blaming the other and trying to gain the sympathy of the general public. Meanwhile, those who depend on SNAP, WIC, and other such services face disruption. Millions of federal workers, including the military, TSA, border patrol agents, federal firefighters, and more, are working without pay. The strain and stress on them is understandably high.
Regardless of whose, if anyone’s, side you take, you appreciate the frustrating side-effects of an unwillingness to yield and compromise. From the outside looking in, you may think how easily this could be resolved if each side would concede. Each believes they will be showing weakness and losing if they give in.
In my life, regarding non-political situations, I have seen people in positions of leadership and influence publicly say in humility, “I was wrong” or “I am sorry.” Never once did I hear anyone lose respect for them. In fact, the opposite occurred. Their stock, in every instance, went up in people’s eyes. We love to witness is, but we hate to exhibit it. A humble, heartfelt apology or concession can lead to peace, harmony, and unity.
An inspired apostle wrote, “Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:1-3). If that spirit was embraced by all, we would never have stalemates and impasses like we are witnessing now. And while we cannot affect what’s currently happening in Washington, D.C. right now, think of the many areas where we can avoid costly episodes of stubbornness.
What about in your marriage? Do you ever experience relationship shutdowns there? What about in your local congregation? Fellowship shutdowns? In just about any instance where you are called to interrelate with people, on the job, with family, or even in casual daily transactions, you are at least partially responsible for whether or not costly shutdowns occur.
I wonder how many souls will be lost because of the cost of stubbornness, whether a pride that refuses to repent or obey the gospel or that will not make amends. Look up passages that describe people as “stiff-necked” or those who had “stubborn and rebellious hearts” and see how God felt about it. Suffice it to say, the cost will exceed the approximately $7 billion being conservatively estimated in the current senate stalemate. How many souls will someday be lost due to the high cost of stubbornness?
Being a follower of Christ demands constant self-examination. Each day, we wake up asking, “What do I need to work on today?” One persistent battle we face is the flesh, our sinful nature that pulls us off track, like that wobbly Walmart shopping cart wheel that requires constant correction.
Carl Pollard
Being a follower of Christ demands constant self-examination. Each day, we wake up asking, “What do I need to work on today?” One persistent battle we face is the flesh, our sinful nature that pulls us off track, like that wobbly Walmart shopping cart wheel that requires constant correction. Galatians 5:24 says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” But what does it mean to crucify the flesh, and how do we live it out in a world brimming with temptation?
In Galatians 5, Paul describes the flesh not as our physical bodies but as our sinful desires that rebel against God. Galatians 5:17 explains, “The flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; they are contrary to one another.” The flesh urges us to lash out in anger, indulge in lust, gossip, or hold grudges. Paul lists its acts: sexual immorality, hatred, jealousy, rage, selfish ambition (Galatians 5:19-21). These are symptoms of a heart not fully surrendered to God. The flesh promises satisfaction but delivers emptiness, chaining us to sin. Recognizing this enemy within is the first step to living for Christ.
Crucifixion, in Roman times, was a brutal, final punishment. Paul’s use of this term signals a decisive, no-turning-back commitment to put sinful desires to death. Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily” (Luke 9:23). This daily choice means saying no to pride, bitterness, or greed and yes to humility, forgiveness, and generosity.
The key to crucifying the flesh lies in belonging to Christ. When we surrender to Him, we’re united in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:5-6). His victory over sin becomes ours, and His Spirit empowers us to resist temptation. This is why Paul confidently states we “have crucified” the flesh, a present reality for Christians. Living like we belong to Jesus means choosing the Spirit daily, allowing it to produce love, joy, peace, and other fruits (Galatians 5:22-23) in our lives.
To crucify the flesh, start with confession and repentance, naming and turning from sin (1 John 1:9). Rely on the Spirit through prayer and God’s Word. Choose daily obedience, saying no to temptation and yes to love. Crucifying the flesh isn’t restriction, it’s liberation, freeing us to run the race God has set before us. What needs to be nailed to the cross today? Lay it at Jesus’ feet and live the life He promised.
If you have to boil down a person’s life to its most irreducible form, what would you say? In some ways, that depends upon the person–he or she was encouraging, unselfish, critical, dishonest, successful, famous, stingy. In another way, each of us could be described in the same way.
Neal Pollard
If you have to boil down a person’s life to its most irreducible form, what would you say? In some ways, that depends upon the person–he or she was encouraging, unselfish, critical, dishonest, successful, famous, stingy. In another way, each of us could be described in the same way. Romans 3:23 captures that when it says, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” At some point, it is inevitably said of you and me, “They were a sinner.” Consider Naaman. Captain, whose life is recorded for us in 2 Kings 5. Great man. Highly respected. Victorious. Valiant warrior. “But he was a leper” (1).
His accolades and accomplishments could not change that. His earthly king could not change that (5). His horses and chariots could not change that (9). His own intelligence and opinions could not change that (11-12). The only thing that solved his terminal problem was acting on his faith in God’s Word. Elisha gave him simple instructions: “Wash, and be clean” (13). When he got over his impulsive fury and considered the good counsel of those around him, “he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God; and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child and he was clean” (14). Now, it could be said of him, “He was clean.”
We often make this story an Old Testament illustration of baptism. It fits perfectly in that application. But, let’s not let ourselves off the hook. When God’s Word goes along with our will and desires, it’s not a problem to obey. But, when it challenges us to do what is against our flesh, our nature, and our own will, that’s when character is defined. That’s where the heart is proven. The reaction God is looking for, it seems, is “humility.” As James puts it, “This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves” (1:19-22). To his credit, Naaman did that. May I have a humility like that, too.
“Count your blessings.” It’s a phrase we’ve all heard and probably even tried to practice in various ways. It’s a simple yet profound reminder to recognize the goodness in our lives and acknowledge what God has done for us. But what if we approached it from a completely different perspective—one that might just transform the way we see our daily blessings?
Several years ago, I had an idea that has stuck with me ever since. In fact, I find myself thinking about it nearly every day. Today, I want to share this concept with you in the hope that it will help you become more aware of the countless blessings surrounding you.
What If Everything Unthanked Disappeared?
Imagine waking up tomorrow morning to a shocking realization: everything you haven’t specifically thanked God for is gone.
I’m talking about physical things, relationships, and even aspects of society that we take for granted. Spiritually speaking, we would probably be okay—most of us have thanked God for Jesus, salvation, His Word, the church, and the hope of heaven. We’ve likely expressed gratitude for our immediate family, our career, and our home.
But have we thanked God for the smaller things—the specifics that shape our daily lives?
The Details We Often Overlook
If you woke up tomorrow and found that everything you hadn’t thanked God for had vanished, how much would be left?
Did you thank Him for running water, indoor plumbing, toothpaste, or a toothbrush?
What about a hairdryer or hairbrush (maybe more important to some than others!)?
As you leave your home, did you thank Him for the transportation that gets you to school or work?
The roads, street signs, and traffic signals that guide your way?
The weather, whether sunny or rainy?
The laws and law enforcement that keep traffic safe?
The camaraderie of friends or coworkers when you arrive?
Consider the building you enter. Have you thanked God for:
The architects who designed it?
The physics that allow such structures to stand?
The tools, bricks, concrete, and glass that make up the place you work or learn?
The doorknobs you turn without a second thought?
Once you start considering these things, and realizing they could be gone tomorrow, you might feel compelled to pray and thank God. And in just one day, you could list hundreds—maybe thousands—of blessings. Yet, that list would barely scratch the surface.
Recognizing God’s Hand in Everything
Think about birthday parties, family vacations, movie theater popcorn, or a warm jacket on a cold day. You could spend all day thanking God, and tomorrow, most of what you experience would still disappear because His blessings are everywhere.
God has given us intelligence and compassion to build a society where we interact, create, and innovate. He has blessed us with knowledge, learning, and science to design and construct an astonishing number of things using the resources He provides. The truth is, God has blessed you—and me—beyond what we can fully comprehend.
The Gift of Another Day
Now, imagine waking up tomorrow and realizing everything (and everyone) is still here. Maybe you just had the date wrong. But how much more can you thank God for with another day? And another?
Every day, I find myself uttering short prayers of gratitude for a whole new list of things—situations, people, aspects of society, and physical items I hadn’t considered before. This practice has gone on for years, and I have yet to run out of new blessings to acknowledge. I suspect I could thank God for something different every day and run out of days before running out of blessings.
A Challenge for You
I hope you take a moment to think about this concept. Try it for yourself. See if it helps you better appreciate the rich blessings our Father in heaven has given us.
And now, consider this: nothing we’ve listed—or could ever list—compares to the blessings of heaven.
God has already been abundantly generous to us in this life, but when you read about heaven, you realize that it is better than what we have now in every possible way. And therein lies the real lesson: when you better appreciate what God has already done for us, you can better yearn for and be motivated to seek what He will do when He returns.
A Call to Action
I want everyone to experience those blessings.
More importantly, God wants everyone to experience those blessings. If you have never been baptized into Christ for the forgiveness of sins, what is the delay? Life, opportunity, and even the blessings we take for granted can disappear tomorrow.
Let’s not wait to recognize the incredible gifts He has given us. Let’s start counting our blessings today.
The Paradox of Freedom in America’s Founding and Faith
Brent Pollard
Every year on July 4th, Americans come together to commemorate their liberation from the rule of Great Britain. However, though we praise the Declaration of Independence for emphasizing self-reliance, it can also be seen as a testament to the deep reliance on a Creator God.
Reflect upon the opening line, “When in the Course of human events.” This statement establishes a benchmark that surpasses the power of any leader. It implies the existence of a higher law, a natural law, originating from a divine source.
This fundamental document declares that some rights are “self-evident,” i.e., they are part of the human condition and not something a king or queen can grant. This fact suggests that these rights come from a source beyond the control of any human government.
The famous passage “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights” clearly recognizes the divine source of these fundamental rights. They are not merely gifts from rulers; a higher power has bestowed them upon us.
The second paragraph concludes by appealing to the “Supreme Judge of the world” and recognizing the significance of considering others’ perspectives. This reverence for humanity’s perspective is rooted in a collective faith in a superior ethical framework.
The revolution is fully justified because the king broke the sacred laws governing nature and the divine. The colonists were not rebelling against a rightful authority but rather against a ruler who violated the sacred law.
This perspective highlights the importance of relying on a higher power in various significant ways:
• Origin of Rights: Our rights are not self-derived but instead bestowed upon us by a higher power, implying that we must preserve and protect them.
• Limits of Government: The government aims to safeguard these inherent rights rather than diminish them.
• Emphasizing Accountability: A higher law applies to rulers and the ruled, fostering a more just society.
These concepts shouldn’t surprise anyone familiar with how people express their dependence on God in the Scriptures. Also, God’s word reminds Christians that God has given them freedom; it also guides them by principles of lawfulness and expediency, which prevent them from indulging in their desires without restraint (e.g., 1 Corinthians 10.23).
As we approach our conclusion, we want to highlight various statements from the Bible that show our dependence on God. These scriptures highlight different aspects of our reliance on God, including our need for His guidance, power, wisdom, protection, and existence. They stress the limits of human understanding and ability, contrasting them with God’s all-knowing and all-powerful nature.
Jeremiah 10.23: “I know, O Lord, that a man’s way is not in himself, nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps.” (NASB95)
This verse acknowledges that humans lack ultimate control over their lives and require God’s guidance.
Acts 17.28: “For in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’” (NASB95)
Paul underscores that we are entirely dependent on God for our very existence.
John 15.5: “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” (NASB95)
Jesus employs a metaphor to vividly demonstrate how we rely entirely on Him for spiritual productivity.
Proverbs 3.5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (NASB95)
This passage encourages reliance on God’s wisdom rather than our limited understanding.
Psalm 127:1: “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain.” (NASB95)
This verse powerfully underscores the uselessness of human endeavors without God’s participation.
Philippians 4.13: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (NASB95)
Paul admits that his capability to deal with his economic circumstances originates from God, not himself.
2 Corinthians 3:5: “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God.” (NASB95)
Paul reiterates that all our abilities come from God, not within ourselves.
James 4.13-15: “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.” Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.” (NASB95)
This passage highlights our inability to control the future and our need to submit to God’s will.
Psalm 46.1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (NASB95)
This verse vividly depicts God as our ultimate source of protection and strength, particularly in challenging times.
Isaiah 41.10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (NASB95)
God assures us of His presence, strength, and support, indicating our essential need for these divine provisions.
The principles of independence remind us of a profound paradox: our reliance on a higher authority closely connects us to true freedom. The Declaration of Independence acknowledges our freedom from earthly rule and dependence on divine providence. We find this sentiment throughout Scripture, continually reminding us of our reliance on God for guidance, strength, and even our existence. As we celebrate our national independence, let’s also embrace the humility and wisdom that comes from recognizing our ultimate dependence on the Creator. In doing so, we honor the enduring principles that have guided our nation since its beginning and continue to shape our understanding of freedom and equality.
A church prone to division will suffer symptoms in just about every way such can be measured. Corinth seemed to take pride in all the wrong things–who baptized them, how much knowledge they had, what spiritual gifts they possessed, how much money they had, and, apparently, who, by gender, was in charge or had responsibility for church leadership. So, Paul has to take the time to share God’s will on the matter.
THE OVERARCHING PRINCIPLE OF HEADSHIP
This section of Scripture has proven difficult for many Bible students. While we will address the “head covering” below, often we miss the point of the paragraph. Paul leads out with it: “But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God” (3). Everything that follows serves as an illustration of that truth. Paul will apply this truth to the assemblies in chapter 14. Paul gives some reasons why God has decided to order things as He has. Man was not made from woman, but woman from man (8). Man was not created for woman, but woman was made for man (9). One might not understand or like that principle, but that does not change the truth of it. By following this principle faithfully, a congregation can eliminate this as a divisive issue.
THE MUTUAL DEPENDENCE OF BOTH GENDERS
Before we get to the head covering, Paul clarifies an important point. Perhaps anticipating this as a reason for boasting or resentment, he reminds men and women in Christ of how equally they depend upon each other (11). He says, “for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God” (12). As other passages demonstrate, this is not a matter of superiority and inferiority. God assigns different roles and responsibilities within the body. An elder is not inherently smarter or more important because he is an elder. He just has a different role, one that carries oversight and superintendence. So it is with man’s role in home and church leadership.
THE CULTURAL EXAMPLE OF SUBMISSION
A couple of points should be made about Paul’s illustration of headship and submission. When Paul refers to a woman artificially covering her head, the word “cover” means ” To cover with a veil or something which hangs down” (Zodhiates, np). Arndt and the others, in the BDAG lexicon, appeals to contemporary secular writing for what this veil was like, saying, “The covering of the clothes on the head is of such a kind that the whole face seems to be covered as with a mask (517). So, this would more resemble a burka than a doily. Second, Paul makes clear that such a covering is not commanded nor should it be divisive. He summarizes the discussion, saying, “If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God” (16). We know this is true because the hair of the women in the congregation at Ephesus was visible (1 Tim. 2:9), as was the hair of the women of the congregations in the five regions Peter wrote to (1 Pet. 3:3). Significantly, the context of 1 Timothy 2 deals with a worship and assembly context, as does 1 Corinthians 11.
My friend, Denny Petrillo, is a formidable Greek scholar and he helps clarify a lot of the confusion this has caused some in understanding this section of Scripture. In answering whether or not this passage requires women to wear head coverings in the assemblies today, he says “no” for the following reasons:
1) It is not commanded here or elsewhere in Scripture. 2) The practice of wearing veils was not found in other locations 3) Proponents of the veil have had difficulty explaining verse 15 4) The impact of the teaching is no longer relevant for today. 5) The practice was not universal in the New Testament 6) The practice was not found in the early church. 7) It might be successfully argued that the context of 1 Corinthians 11 is the misuse of spiritual gifts by these women. 8) Inconsistency in application (holy kiss, foot washing). 9) Is there any relevance for single women or widows?
(Each of these nine points is substantiated with lengthy, persuasive argument; Contact me if you would like his entire document on this)
The question is not whether it is acceptable for a woman to cover her head when she comes to worship today. It is a legitimate conviction and may be a matter of conscience for some today, and they should not be ostracized or judged for so doing. However, it is not something which should be made a test of fellowship, either, nor something which should divide God’s people today.
Paul is seeking to root out division wherever it reared its ugly head. When a congregation is prone to have strife, it can affect every area of life. We must maintain our view of Christ’s bigger picture and strive to be united by honoring our individual roles and responsibilities.
The submission topic continues into I Peter 3. This time, it’s a message to husbands and wives. 3.1-6 addresses the wives, but husbands are far from off-the-hook, and their message comes with a bit of a threat (7). God expects Christian wives to yield leadership to their husbands. This is a difficult one for us to swallow, too. It’s certainly countercultural, but it’s what God wants.
This passage highlights the ideal qualities of a Christian wife — her submission and focus on morally pure living could very well win over a husband who doesn’t believe in God or has fallen away (3.1-2). The ideal Christian wife doesn’t express her beauty with physical or worldly ideals. She finds her beauty and value in a gentle, peaceful, morally pure spirit, because that’s extremely valuable to God (4). Verses 5-6 give historical role models to emulate.
But husbands have a huge responsibility as well (7). God expects a husband to live with his wife in a common-sense way. The phrase often translated “with understanding” is κατα γνωσιν — “according to knowledge”. Husbands know (or should know) what their wives like and dislike, and should try to act accordingly. Husbands also have to remember the differences between men and women. He isn’t going to treat his wife the same way he treats his bros. That usually doesn’t go over well and God doesn’t allow it.
Husbands have to remember that wives are every bit as equal in value in God’s eyes (7). They’re just as entitled to God’s grace. If a husband fails to live up to these expectations, God will actively block his prayers (7). This is a serious verse for us to consider. If husbands don’t live up to God’s standards, he will turn the volume all the way down on their prayers.
Imperfect people have been called by a perfect God. Our imperfection can hinder the church’s unity, contaminate our own faith, and corrupt our relationship with God as well as with each other. What steps can we take to make sure our humanity doesn’t pollute the unity of Christ’s body? In Romans 15 we find four tips that Paul gives us on how we can achieve unity in Christ.
We can find perfect unity in Christ if we:
Serve One Another
Accept Each Person (As Christ did)
Join Together in Glorifying God
Have the Same Mind
This unity in Christ leads to stronger relationships with each other. Our healthy relationships with each other can help us achieve our designed end. When we are unified in mind, our weaknesses and imperfections are minimized. If we want to accomplish the tasks that God has set before us, we must be unified as a church body–a body that is connected by a shared goal.
God in His infinite wisdom knew that we wouldn’t always get along, so He gave us His word to help us in our relationships with each other. We could never achieve unity if it wasn’t for God’s Word. It is the source of unity and wisdom.
God has always had a plan for His creation. He wants every person to be saved and have access to salvation. Whether it was through the Patriarchal Law, Mosaic Law, Moral Law, or the Christian dispensation, mankind has always had a means to be saved.
But the Jewish Christians didn’t agree with God’s decision to include the Gentiles.
Romans 15:8-12 explains why everyone has access to salvation. The Jews had a hard time letting go of their background. They didn’t see it as right to let Gentiles into the church. But Paul tells them they’re wrong. In fact, Paul uses writings the Jews were familiar with. He says,
“For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.” And again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol him.” And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.”
God’s plan from the beginning was to include the Gentiles. The early church was divided because the Jews had their own ideas about who could be a Christian and who could not. If we wish to have unity, we must recognize God’s plan. We must respect and follow God’s plan rather than our own. The problem with humans is that each person usually thinks his or her own ideas are the best. Every one of us has our own ideas. We have an opinion on just about every little thing.
So how do we get a church body that is filled with many different ideas and opinions to be unified? By following the plans of someone Who is greater than us. God’s plan is flawless and perfect. If we want to have unity in our relationships we must recognize God’s plan for His church. We should see God as the ultimate authority. We should submit to His plan understanding that He knows what is best for His creation.
The Jews Didn’t want to include the Gentiles because it wasn’t what THEY had in mind. Paul reminds them that it isn’t up to them to decide, and that God has ALWAYS longed for EVERY person to come to salvation.
Why is this important for us? I’ve never heard anyone in the church complain about Gentiles. So whats the application for us? We should be thankful that God wanted Gentiles in the church because thats exactly what we are. If God didn’t include the Gentiles, we would never be a part of the church.
These verses should move us to be grateful that God wanted us. They should also serve as a warning to obey God’s commands over our own. Unity in Christ is created when we recognize God’s plan.
The other week at our graduation party at the Scottsville church of Christ I was introduced to candied pecans. A lady gave me the leftovers and they were incredible. Sadly, they don’t sell those in Scottsville so I looked up a recipe. While I was at the store grabbing ingredients, I made my way to the baking section to look for vanilla. Problem was, I would have to get a mortgage to buy real vanilla. I didnt realize how expensive it was! Luckily I found a substitute called “imitation vanilla.” It’s way cheaper, and it tastes the same (to me), it looks the same, and it’s the same consistency.
We will never be Jesus, but we should try our best to imitate Him. Being a disciple means being a follower. A follower is, “someone who imitates another.” Ephesians 5:1 says, “Therefore be imitators (followers) of God, as beloved children.” Little kids tend to look to the older and imitate what they see. We are to act this way with God.
Why did God save us and add us to His family? So that we would be imitators and followers of God. Doing so takes submission and humility. Every person is a follower of something. You can submit to and imitate anyone or anything. God saved us so that we would choose to follow and imitate Him in everything.
Being a follower takes submission. Are we meek enough to accept the title of slave? God saved us so that we would be slaves to Him and work for the master. That’s how we can truly be disciples! I would rather be a slave in God’s house, than the master of my own.
If we wear the name Christian, we should be willing to follow Christ. His example is worth imitating!
“My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother; For they will be a graceful ornament on your head, And chains about your neck.”
Hear: More than just the process of hearing words spoken. The idea is to do something with the valuable information given, i.e., follow it.
Instruction of your father: Just like ignoring proper building instructions/blueprints leads to an unstable house, ignoring wise instruction from the older and more experienced will lead to an unstable life.
And do not forsake the law of your mother: Solomon emphasizes the importance of God’s design for the family. It’s the duty of both father and mother to provide wisdom (James 3.17) in the form of instruction (Prov. 4.13, 8.33, 10.8, 10.17, 12.1, 19.20).
For they will be a graceful ornament on your head and chains about your neck: Training a child to fear the Lord begins with teaching children to have a proper fear (respect/reverence) of their parents and their seniors. For additional motivation, Solomon includes the maturing child’s reward. The ornaments and chains represent an upgrade in social status. As a general rule, godly teaching in the home, when combined with a willingness to hear— leads to financial and social success.
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the LORD your God gives you.”
– Ex. 20:12
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother, that it may be well with you and you will live long on the earth.”
The second half of the Ephesian letter is addressed to showing how the redeemed walk in Christ. That cannot be divorced from the Christian’s function within the body of Christ, the church. It has often rightly been observed that Paul, in this epistle, is exalting the church of the Christ. It is valuable to God and to us because (1) It is the body of Christ, His Son (1:22-23; 4:4), (2) It is His means of reconciling all people together (2:16), (3) It makes us members of His household (2:19-22), (4) It is the means through which He shows His manifold wisdom and eternal purpose (3:9-11), (5) It is the means through which He receives glory (3:20-21), and (6) It is where and how God intends for us to use our talents and abilities to grow individually and collectively (4:11-16). Added to that list is what Paul says in what we call Ephesians 5:22-33. Paul makes it clear that the material he covers in this text illustrates a profound mystery; what he is saying “refers to Christ and the church” (32). Therefore, whatever else we take away from this text as inspired guidelines for marriage–which it is–we must understand that the church is the bride and Christ is the groom. When we see God’s binding legislation on the husband and wife in this text, we must remind ourselves that it illustrates the relationship between Christ and the church. Paul repeatedly gives this reminder (23, 25,27,29, 30,32). But, it’s not exclusively about that, as Paul concludes, “However, let each of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband” (33). In other words, Paul is saying, “Even though my underlying point is about Christ’s love for the church and the church’s need to submit to His authority, apply this to the marriage relationship!”
This illustration is about submission (22-24). The command here builds on the command previous to it, in Ephesians 5:21, that being filled with the Spirit is fulfilled by “submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” That is more generally about each member of the church. But, in a marriage between Christians, there would also be this mutual submission. Yet, in a specific way, God commands the wife to submit to the headship of her husband. Paul speaks “of submission involving recognition of an ordered structure… of the entity to whom/which appropriate respect is shown” (BDAG 1042). Louw and Nida add that it means “to bring something under the firm control of someone” (475). Kittel tells us that in the middle voice (i.e., the one commanded acting upon himself/herself) this is voluntary submission, but it is according to a divinely willed order (1159). The wife places herself under the leadership of her husband in a way that shows that she respect him (33). God commands this because, as previous commands in this letter, it does not come naturally or easily. It requires self-discipline and effort. The close the loop on the metaphor, Paul says, “Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands” (24). This is neither vague nor unclear, though it is difficult.
This illustration is about sacrificial love (25-30). The command here complements the one Paul gives to the wife. The husband is commanded to love his wife “as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (25). The specific “love” mentioned here is not erotic, familial, or companionship centered. It is the highest form of love, “to have love for someone or something, based on sincere appreciation and high regard—‘to love, to regard with affection, loving concern, love” (Louw-Nida 292-293). This is the love used to describe why God gave His Son (John 3:16). Likewise, Paul here is saying that what husbands are called to show their wives is what prompted Jesus to lay down His life on the cross. Picture the intensity, the fierce devotion, the selfless care involved in that (as you read 5:26-27)! But that active interest also leads the husband, in love, to nourish and cherish her (29) as carefully as one acts to preserve self (28). Paul sharpens the focus of husbands on the sacrificial love Christ heaps on the church, and that is the bar God sets for the husband in the marriage. A husband is to be driven by concern, care, and genuine interest for the needs of his wife! Her greatest need is spiritual, so he will never abdicate the role of spiritual leadership. He will lovingly exercise it.
This illustration is about severing (31). When the old saying goes, “Marriage takes three,” it does not mean the husband, his wife, and a parent. In fact, a prerequisite of forming a marriage presupposes what Paul explicitly states here: “Therefore a man shall leave his father & mother & hold fast to his wife, & the two shall become one flesh” (31). Did you know that this is one of the first commands in the whole Bible? Paul quotes Genesis 2:24)? Jesus reiterates it in His teaching to restore marriage to its original state (Mat. 19:5; Mk. 10:7). Suffice it to say, this is a foundational principle. Just as God does not want any outside influences to interfere in the church’s relationship to Christ, He does not want any undue influences upon the marriage relationship. That includes the parents of the bride and/or groom! The legislation is spoken to the husband, but it is applicable to the wife. It is also a warning to the parents whose children leave their home and form their new home. While this does not mean total isolation and desertion of responsibilities to parents, whom we must always honor (6:3), it does mean that the relationship changes. The married couple are not under the rule of parents. They leave that relationship and form a new one, beautifully described as a “one flesh” relationship.
This metaphor is to help the church at Ephesus understand their relationship to Christ. But, let’s not miss the bottom line application, either. “This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband” (32-33).
In Denver it’s illegal to drive a black car on Sunday.
In Ohio it’s illegal to run out of gas.
In Alabama it’s illegal to drive blindfolded.
In Arizona it’s illegal for a donkey to sleep in a bathtub.
In Hawaii it’s illegal to place a coin inside your ear.
There are several laws that most have never even heard of and there seems to be no shortage of ridiculous laws that definitely have a good story for their origin. The Jews had over six hundred laws and would often debate over which commands and laws were superior over the others. Was there an ultimate law that reigned supreme?
Jesus would echo the words of Moses in Matthew 22.37-40 and according to the Son of God, the ultimate command is a summary of faithful living. So the entirety of our purpose in life can be summed up in this one sentence,
“you shall love the LORD your God with your— everything.”
If you love God with everything; every area of your life will be in submission to His will. Your mental power and your strength must be combined to serve Him in unison, and even Paul recognizes how much easier said than done that concept is. In Mark 12.22 Jesus wraps it all together by linking the heart, soul, and strength together. This trifecta of our being can be tamed with discipline and utilized as a powerful force against evil. This is the key to loving Him with our everything.
The Bible is filled with so many helpful verses on daily living. Many of us can find it difficult at times to work with people, especially if we’re having a stressful day. Here are eleven practical passages that will help us in our interactions with others this week.
A soft answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1)
The wise of heart is called perceptive, and pleasant speech increases persuasiveness (Proverbs 16:21)
Be gentle and show courtesy to all people (Titus 3:2)
Do good to everyone (Gal. 6:10)
Bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2)
As you wish that others would do to you, do so to them (Luke 6:31)
Discern your own thoughts, identify your intentions (Heb. 4:12)
Treat others like you would treat Jesus. How would you interact with Him? (Matthew 25:40)
Season your speech with grace. It’s the Savior’s All-Spice for every relationship-building goal (Col. 4:5-6)
Praise God and be joyful, it attracts people (Psalm 100:1-5)
Be ready for every good work, speak evil of no one, avoid quarreling, be gentle, show courtesy to all people (Titus 3:1-15)
One thing you might notice about these scriptures is how many of them deal with our speech. According to the book of James, the tongue is incredibly difficult to tame. Reading these verses, it becomes clear that there are several advantages of placing the bridle over our lips.
Luke moves from a sample of Jesus’ teaching and work in the synagogues to His teaching and work among the common people in Luke 5:1-11. For the first time, in Luke five, we see individuals responding to His teaching by following Him. Though Luke only identifies one of the men at this point, the three other gospel writers mention that Simon Peter’s brother, Andrew, was also in that number. Matthew and Mark tell us that the men in the other boat were James and John. These four fishermen would soon “be catching men” (10). Luke seems to focus his attention on the reaction these men had to Jesus, His teaching, and the impact the miracle with the fish had on them. Their reaction to Jesus mirrors the reaction we need to have when called by His Word to follow Him.
DISCIPLESHIP REQUIRES EXPOSURE TO JESUS’ WORD (1-4).
Luke shows us Jesus teaching in close proximity to the fishermen, but gives no clear indication of how much or if they are listening to Him. He does show how compelling Jesus’ teaching is and how the people were listening (1). John tells us, though, that Andrew had already been listening to Jesus and was trying to persuade Simon to follow Him (1:40-42). Paul’s teaching that faith comes by hearing the word of Christ (Rom. 10:17) will be apparent in the lives of these followers, as Luke will demonstrate in this gospel and the book of Acts. We cannot follow one whose ideas, instruction, and incentives we do not know or believe.
This is not a one-time act. Submission is a process that must be practiced continually. But, no one can choose to follow who does not surrender his or her own will to Christ’s (cf. 9:23-26). Jesus, the carpenter, tells these fishermen how to fish. Despite their all-night total failure at their craft, they trust Jesus’ word. Simon says, “Master, we worked hard all night and caught nothing, but I will do as You say and let down the nets” (5). Success followed submission, something they would see in greater, more important ways as they continued to follow Him. Jesus asks us to do difficult and perplexing things. Our task is not to question, but simply to surrender.
DISCIPLESHIP REQUIRES A HUMILITY TO SEE OUR SINFUL SELVES (8).
Simon will show traits which prove him to be a work in progress, from impetuousness to inconsistency. Yet, Jesus could see his heart and the inspired Luke sheds light on it, too. When Peter sees the power of His Lord, he says, “Go away from me Lord, for I am a sinful man!” (8). All of us will disappoint Jesus in our walk with Him, but He loves a heart that harbors no stubborn pride. This is the man Jesus will choose as a leader and spokesman, one who does not try to project perfection and superiority. So it is today (1 Pet. 5:5-6).
Exposure to Jesus left these fishermen “seized” (enclosed, completely taken hold of) with “amazement” (9). It made them “fear” (10). Others felt emotion like this who were exposed to Jesus’ power and preaching, and they audaciously reject Him (4:22-30; 8:26-39). These four men, amazed and afraid, will be prompted by this to make the life-changing (and life-giving) choice to follow Him. I have seen people in Bible studies and in their pew who realize the truth of the gospel, showing (and even telling of) remorse, dread, and anxiety over their lostness, but who just cannot make the decision to deny self and follow Jesus. I cannot think of a greater tragedy. In my own life, it is not simply enough to feel sorrow over my sin. I must allow this to move me to obedience (2 Cor. 7:9-11).
DISCIPLESHIP REQUIRES RADICAL CHANGE (11).
Luke will record several positive examples of people whose encounter with Jesus is transformational! Think the sinful woman (7:36-50), the demoniac (8:26-39), the grateful leper (17:11-21), and Zaccheus (19:1-10). Some, though, were just not willing (18:18-27). Luke records multiple occasions where Jesus warns that discipleship requires radical change (cf. 9:57-62). Other writers will contrast it as putting off the old man and putting on the new man (Eph. 4:22-32; Col. 3:5-17; Heb. 12:1; 1 Pet. 2:1ff). Here, Luke simply relates how that they immediately left everything and followed Him. While that may not be a literal necessity today, we cannot hope to have eternal life while holding onto this life so much that we are not following His will.
These men were about to see things they could not have imagined, experience highs and lows they did not know existed, and be given opportunities they could not have anticipated. It wasn’t going to be an easy life; in fact, it would demand everything they had. But it gave them something only Jesus could give them. This hasn’t changed. If we want what they received, we must do what they did!
Though scripture doesn’t say, you can be sure David’s sheep had no idea how lucky they were to have a shepherd like him. They were just sheep after all. How could they fully appreciate the extent that David went to in order to keep them safe? Before this begins to sound ridiculous, let’s remember that at least two of David’s sheep were carried off in the jaws of a lion and a bear. When the terrified bleating of an unfortunate sheep is heard by the shepherd, he sprints after the wild animal knowing all the while— it’s just a sheep. It’s just one sheep! Nevertheless, David strikes the predator and saves the sheep (1 Sam. 17.34-35).
What made David a good shepherd? It certainly wasn’t his stature. The average male of his day stood around five feet tall. He was also the youngest of his family and often unappreciated (1 Sam. 16.11,17.29,33). It was David’s heart and not his height that made him exceptional. He was a natural shepherd of sheep, and of people.
David is sent by his father, Jesse, to deliver bread for his brothers who are among Saul’s army. When he arrives on scene everyone, including the king, is afraid and unwilling to take a stand against the arrogant Goliath. But before the giant warrior from Gath meets the shepherd boy from Bethlehem, a few more giants will be faced.
The first giant was the giant of degradation.
David’s own brother, Eliab, would greet him with two belittling questions that would make a lesser man feel sheepish, but not this shepherd. Eliab asks, “why have you come down here? And who is watching the few sheep?” David’s brother doesn’t think he belongs among warriors and that he is only capable of handling a small number of dumb animals.
The second giant was that of accusation.
In the same breath Eliab would accuse and insult David three different times. He claims, “I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is. You’ve only come to watch the battle.” How wrong he was and how dare he insult such a godly man! It’s interesting to note that David had an answer to each of these questions and accusations, but never attempts to defend himself. His father sent him, that’s why he was there. He was there to deliver nourishment for this dear brother who had, no doubt, worked up an appetite doing absolutely nothing. No retaliation or snarky remark would escape from the shepherd’s mouth because nothing like that was in his heart (Matt. 12.34).
The third giant David would conquer would be the towering giant of indignity.
He didn’t shame his brother and he didn’t let his brothers shaming keep him from shining.
Shepherds put up with a lot, don’t they? Good shepherds really put up with a lot. Faithful god-fearing elders within the Lord’s church all over the world are faced with giants more often than they should. Sometimes the giants they face are their own sheep. How easy it is to make confident accusations against them, to question their intentions, hearts, and capabilities. That unpaid servant of God is more often than not the first one to come running when the bleating of a wayward member is heard. When we find ourselves in the clutches of our various trials, they attempt to pry us out. At times they earnestly pray over and take on burdens that aren’t theirs to carry. Faithful elders will find themselves in a position where they could make the sheep feel shame, but choose to save the feelings of others because that’s what a good shepherd does. It’s not their height, it’s their heart. The sheep need to love their shepherds, because the shepherds love their sheep!
In the lead up to the College Football Playoff National Championship, I have read a few articles about tonight’s game. More than once, the players and coaches have talked about the need to “trust the process.” That idea applies to the entire program, to the season, to preparing for every game including this last one, to both sides of the ball, down to the individual player’s preparation for this game. “The process” is comprised of every fundamental principle intended to bring about the highest success. There will be trying moments and setbacks, even failures. But when the tendency to doubt is the greatest, it is then that you most need to “trust the process.”
They say that athletics are a metaphor for life. The inspired apostle Paul thought so. Long before Nick Saban or Kirby Smart and their players used the mantra, the first-century native of Tarsus was teaching the idea in the Bible. Here is how he put it, “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops” (2 Tim. 2:3-6). No, he does not say, “Trust the process.” He gives it instead: Endure, focus, follow the rules, and work hard. Just as coaches use metaphors, making comparisons to chopping wood, flying the plane, rowing the boat, etc., Paul refers to the soldier, the athlete, and the farmer to illustrate principles in the process of living the Christian life.
Our goal is the enjoy ultimate success. The Bible defines that as overcoming the world (Jn. 16:33; 1 Jn. 4:4; 5:4; Re. 2:7,11,17, etc.). There are times this is very difficult, but at all times we must “trust the process.” Trust the process…
When you are encountering various trials (Js. 1:2ff).
When you are aiming at church growth (Acts 2:42-47).
When you are combatting temptation (Js. 4:7-8).
When you are offended or have offended (Mt. 5:23-24; 18:15-17).
When you are trying to win back a fallen brother (Gal. 6:1-2).
When you are seeking to follow Jesus (Lk. 9:23-26).
When you are working on your marriage (Eph. 5:22-33).
When you are running the marathon of childrearing (Eph. 6:1-4; Dt. 6:4-9).
When you are building your relationship with God (Ps. 1; Col. 3:1ff).
When you are shepherding the flock (1 Pt. 5:1-4; Acts 20:28).
When you are dealing with prosperity (1 Ti. 6:17-19) or poverty (Js. 1:9-12).
When you are struggling with sins of the tongue (Js. 3:1-12).
When you are wondering if it’s worth it to keep going (2 Tim. 4:1-8).
When you are being persecuted for your faith or for no good reason at all (Mt. 5:38-48).
In other words, whatever our specific struggle, problem, difficulty, or trial, God has given us a proven process. How many, through the ages, have overcome and won simply because they trusted it? As a loyal, long-suffering fan of the guys in red and black, I am hoping their overall process ends a 41-year drought. If it doesn’t, life will go on. As you follow Jesus, I am hoping that by trusting the process found throughout Scripture you win the crown of eternal life (Js. 1:12). When all is said and done, that is all that matters!
One of the most intriguing people in all the gospels, to me, is the beggar sitting by the road near Jericho. Mark 10:46 tells us that the man’s name is Bartimaeus. Matthew tells us that there is another man sitting with him, and that man’s name is not given (20:30). This man was shameless in a good way, persistent despite the crowd sternly discouraging him (39). I wonder if there is a more pathetic person disclosed to us in the Bible (maybe Lazarus back in Luke 16). He is needy in at least five ways, according to Luke 18:35-43:
He’s physically impaired (35)–“a blind man”
He’s economically disadvantaged (35)–“by the road begging”
He’s socially outcast (39)–He’s not depicted as a respected member of society, but one to be corrected by the others
He’s emotionally distraught (38-41)–Begging for mercy and longing for sight
He’s spiritually incomplete (42)–When Jesus heals him, He tells the man, “Your faith has saved you.”
I love how the man is so stripped of his dignity, power, and resources that he boldly pleads for Jesus’ help. It may seem strange, but all of us need to get to that place if we will receive what only He can give. He wanted His mercy. When he received it, look at the response. He “began following Him, glorifying God; and when all the people saw it, they gave praise to God” (43). Don’t you want your submissive, obedient life to be a drawing card for others to see their need of God and to glorify Him? God really shows His power when He takes the lowliest and transforms them by what He does with and through them. That’s why I love this account.
A researcher at the Royal Society of Medicine in the UK published a paper called “The Spoilt Generation.” He ties the alarming rates of child depression, teenage pregnancy, obesity, violent crimes by adolescents, and more to a basic lack of respect for authority (Daily Mail). The Cato Institute published a study simply entitled, “Respect For Authority.” One of its most basic findings is that the public believes social instability follows disrespect for authority (Cato).
What do you think? Have you noticed a decline of respect in society for parents, teachers,the police, employers, and others in a position of authority? Most of us would agree it’s happening, and that it is not good. Peter warns about it in the most sobering of terms, speaking of the unrighteous who face eternal punishment as those who, in part, “despise authority (2 Pt 2:10). Jude offers a very similar warning, describing those who turn God’sgrace into permission to do whatever they please (4), and this includes their “rejecting authority” (8). So why do we often have a problem with authority?
We have a problem with rebelliousness. Saul, the earthly king, had a problem with rebellion (1 Sam. 15:23). Paul writes Timothy, discussing why the Law of Moses existed. It was for unrighteous people, and at the top of that list were the lawless and rebellious (1 Tim. 1:9). Rebellion is insubordination. It characterized the period of the Judges, when everyone did what they thought was right to them (17:6; 21:25). As we look at crime in our current society, we see the fruit of rebellion. CNN reports a 33% increase in homicides in major U.S. cities from 2019 to 2020, and now it is up another 24% since the beginning of 2021 (CNN). Yet, cities like Baltimore no longer prosecute drug possession, prostitution, and other low-level offenses. In California, shoplifting has in some places ceased to have any legal ramifications. How many looters in major U.S. cities have never served a day in jail or paid a penny in fines? Romans 13 clearly condemns this. Paul says “whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves” (2). Most of us would condemn this nationally, but do we struggle with rebellion against authority closer to home? Do we struggle with it against employers, elders, and parents? Rebelliousness can be milder than murder and more limited than against government. Do we only submit if we accept what they lead us to do? Do we maintain meekness and gentleness only if we agree with them? Rebellion is not the mark of a disciple of Christ; such have a different master.
We have a problem with respect. Paul says, “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves” (1 Th. 5:12-13). Esteem, as a verb, is found 28 times and means to think, consider, or regard. Paul is telling the church how to regard their leaders (“very highly in love”) and why (“because of their work”). Interestingly, the noun form of this verbs is often tied to various types of leadership–“Ruler” (Mt. 2:6), “leader” (Lk. 22:26), “governor” (Acts 7:10), “chief” (Acts 14:12) and “leading men” (Acts 15:22). But in 1 Thessalonians 5:13, it is a verb and means to engage in the intellectual process of thinking of them with the highest respect. The word “esteem” deals with our character generally and not just how we treat elders and any other leaders. Philippians 2:3 says, “With humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves.” But Peter speaks of some who “count it a pleasure to revel in doing wrong” (2 Pet. 2:13). Respect is a matter of how you set your mind. If we don’t have it in our hearts to respect those in authority, it can’t help but show in the way we speak to them or about them. Our children learn how to treat authority figures by watching and listening to us. What are we teaching them?
We have a problem with our religion. “Religion” is only found four times in the New Testament. It means appropriate beliefs and the devout practice of our obligations (Louw-Nida, 530). How do we properly express our religion? It is not just about worshipping the way God commands. That’s a vital part, but only one way. Paul tells us what his pre-Christian religion looked like (Acts 26:5). He tells us about the false religion of some, ruled by their fleshly minds (Col. 2:18). James uses the word “religion” twice, in James 1:26-27. He teaches that pure, untainted religion is proven or disproven by your thoughts, words, and deeds. When I show disdain toward those in authority in or out of the church context, I’m telling everyone who witnesses it about my religion. I am making an impression on them that will either lead them closer to God or farther away from Him. Whatever I tell them about the one(s) in authority, I am telling them far more about me. If they follow my lead, will they stumble (cf. Lk. 17:1-2)?
Our problem with authority is ultimately a problem with God. When Paul tells Rome that those who resist authority oppose God’s will, he was talking about a government ruled by wicked Caesars who murdered Christians. When I disapprove of or disagree with those in positions of authority, in the nation, church, workplace or home, I must respond how God says respond. I must leave the rest to Him.
Every home has some kind of system in place to keep order. Maybe you were told to take your shoes off at the door, keep your elbows off the table, make your bed in the morning, or brush your teeth more than twice a month. Every home is different and the expectations for conduct and cleanliness vary accordingly. However your home was structured, you were at least bound to a set of rules in some form.
God’s house is no different. I’m not just talking about the building we meet in for worship, but that anytime His family offers up worship to Him we are expected to follow His rules. I Timothy 1.4 talks about God’s “house-law” (often mistranslated “stewardship” or “godly edification”). The word is οικονομία (oikonomia), combining οίκος (house) with νόμος (law). What does this mean in context? In I Timothy Paul publicly berates two members who were teaching “myths and endless genealogies which do not promote the house law of God in faith” (1.3, 4; 20).
If any teaching goes against what God has told us He wants, it’s a violation of His house-law. We understand this when it comes to daily life outside of religious activities. If we break the law we are held accountable to it. We understand that violating the laws our governments put in place to maintain order and promote justice carries consequences. Some, though, do not act as if the same applies to God’s people in a religious context.
God’s house-law is more specifically defined in I Timothy 2.1-8. Anytime and anywhere Christian men and women offer worship together, God expects qualified Christian men to lead. This is made clear with the phrase, “…in every place” (2.8). God’s house, God’s rules.
Not just any man can lead, though! He must be someone who is able to lift holy hands (that is, he is pure in life and can offer worship without the stain of sin), he must be cool-headed, and he can’t be unstable in his faith (2.8). God’s house, God’s rules.
God expects women to avoid drawing undue attention to themselves (2.9, 10) and are to allow godly men to lead them in worship (2.11-14). His house, his rules.
In all of my vast wisdom and experience as a child, I didn’t always agree with or like all of my family’s house rules. Probably every teen and their unfortunate parents experience this. My feelings about a house rule did not alter its validity in any way. It was not my house so I was not in a position to change or violate the rules. Trying to do so was not only futile but often carried consequences.
God’s design for His church is not acceptable to the secular world. In their disagreement or downright hostility toward it they have pushed many churches into changing God’s house-laws. This doesn’t fly in the legal world, the home, or in any setting where rules were set in place by those most qualified to make them. Why would it work with God?
We may not always understand why God made the laws that He did, but this is where the faith aspect of 1 Timothy 1.4 comes into play. We have to ask ourselves, “Do we trust that God knew what He was doing when He made these laws, and do I really want to challenge Him on the rules He made for His own family?” At the end of the day we must remember that in God’s house we follow God’s laws. Many of the problems facing the church in 2020 can be solved simply by accepting this fact! If we do – as in any family – we will not only have harmony in the church, but a permanent, peaceful home with God after this life.
When it comes to sports, there are certain ways of playing. There are rules to follow, specific plays to make, and mistakes to avoid if a team wants to succeed. This same idea applies to our Christianity. In Joshua 1:5-9, we read of certain aspects needed in order to live life God’s way. By following these things we will reap the benefits that are found inside of Christ.
Joshua says that God’s way is conditional. In Joshua 1:7, we read, “Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.” God gave Israel conditions to His being their God: be strong and courageous, do all according to the law of Moses, and do not turn from the right or to the left.
Thinking about our personal relationship with God we can still apply these same commands to our spiritual lives today. For example, the blessings we are promised are received by being strong and courageous in the work place, doing all according to the law we are under (the new covenant), and not wavering in our faith. If we want to live our lives according to God’s will we must understand that our relationship to Him is conditional. Our relationship is based on our willingness to listen to His word.
We must also understand that God’s way is a command, not a suggestion (1:7-8). He is the creator. He has the authority to create the way, He has the authority to make what He says a command. If we want the blessings of following His way, we must practice the commands He has given each one of us.
Just as the Israelites were given certain commands, we also are commanded to follow certain laws. Love the Lord our God with ALL of our heart, soul, mind and strength. We are commanded to love God with every aspect of our lives (Matt. 22:36-40). When we think about our lives, every decision should be based on the will of God. We must recognize that God’s way of living is a command.
If we want to live our lives God’s way we must recognize that the blessings we are promised are conditional, and the things we read in scripture are a command. But we should find joy in knowing that God’s way is comforting. Joshua 1:9 reads, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
There is absolutely no reason for us to tremble when the Creator is on our side. There is never a reason to be dismayed when the defeater of sin is with us. We have a loving God with us wherever we go in life. God’s way of living is best, and if we will let Him control our everyday lives we can find comfort, hope, and joy in Him.
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