Young EGM

MISSION

To preach the gospel where Christ Jesus was not known,so that they that know Him may understand and make them His disciples(Romans 15:20-21)
To preach the Gospel of the Kingdom of God,to the whole nation to every creature(Mathew 24:14)
To preach repentance and remission of sin in the name of Jesus Christ among all Nations(Luke 24:47)
To preach commitment to walk in holiness,righteousness,pure worship and sound doctrines to the body of Christ(The Church)(Hebrews 12:14)
To restore the Biblical worship in truth and spirit and rise a Godly generation(Jeremiah 10:20)

Y.E.G.M CHRONICLES

CORE:BELIEFS

THE HOLY WORD: The Bible as the true word of God, inspirational infallible and

2 .REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SIN: Removal of sins in Jesus Christ’s name comes when one becomes sorry of his/her sins, denounce them, turns away from such and asks forgiveness from Redeemer and Lord, Jesus Christ. Repentance occurs when one acknowledges his sins (that he deserves punishment for them), is moved by godly sorrow to change his life, and sincerely asks God to forgive him of breaking His holy law. True repentance must be granted by God and is the first step in following His way of life which is the way of salvation.

PRAYER: Prayers according to God’s will always Seeking, Asking and knocking with instant and fervent prayers, presenting unceasing petitions and supplications in all manners of fasting.
TRUE WORSHIP: Worshiping the Father in Truth and Spirit. In thanksgiving songs, praise songs, worship songs, giving unadulterated, wholesome and chaste devotion always.

5 .RIGHTEOUSNESS: Walking in total purity, holiness and living a life that pleases and gives God glory. Putting Christianity in action.

6.GRACE AND FAITH: Justification comes purely by the Grace of God to us through Faith  (us believing) in Jesus Christ.

7 .HUMILITY AND HONESTY: Giving ourselves away to the service of God, esteeming others and their needs above ourselves and always putting God’s purpose above all our interests. Speaking and dealing with others with utter sincerity and honesty.

LOVE AND UNITY. Working together with other ministries, denominations or congregations, or fellowships to strengthen the body of Christ.
MIRACLES AND WONDERS: We deeply understand God’s unlimited ability to do supernatural/ extraordinary things in our times and lives. His unfailing Love to give inexplicable breakthroughs to His creation, at any time free of charge.
TITHING. Tithing is a biblical method of supporting the work of God and those who serve. Although the church teaches the responsibility of the individual to give back a tithe (tenth) to God, tithing is a private act of worship between the individual believer and God
LAYING OF HANDS. The laying on of hands is an act for which we have biblical examples. The church recognizes that laying on of hands is appropriate for special occasions and purposes such as receiving God's spirit at baptism, ordaining individuals for spiritual office in the church, anointing of the sick, and the blessing of little children.

CORE MINISTRIES

OUT REACH MINISTRY:  GOSPEL PREACHING.
MUSIC MINISTRY: CHOIR, PRAISE AND WORSHIP.
BED OF ROSES MINISTRY: MARRIAGE LIFE MINISTRY.
SMART LOVE MINISTRY: DATING AND COURTSHIP WING.
VESSELS OF HONOR MINISTRY: HIGH SCHOOL OUTREACH WING AND COLLAGES
PATHFINDERS MINISTRY: CHILDREN MINISTRY.

Come let us return unto the LORD”

THEME COLOURS

1.BLUE: the colour of sky to symbolize God’s work.

2.RED: to symbolize the blood of the Lamb, this symbolizes redemption.

3.WHITE: colour for purity, spotlessness, holiness, symbolizing Holy Spirit

Other colours:

Purple, green, orange, yellow.

TENETS OF FAITH

As members of Young Evagelistic Generation Mission, we believe in the following;

THE TRINITY: The unity of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in the Holy

Trinity. We believe in one God, eternally existing in three Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

2.THE BIB LE: The Bible as the True word of God, as originally given, Divine Inspiration, Infallible and Inerrant; As a supreme authority in nature, permanently binding in all matters of Faith and conduct and that cannot be revised, edited nor broken. Trustworthy, accurate and without error in all its teachings.

3.THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD: Jehovah God has absolute power and authority over the whole earth and heaven, in creation, redemption, revelation and final judgments. He is Eternal, Free, Infinite and Holy.

4.REDEMPTION BY THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST: The sinfulness and guilt of all men, falling short of the glory of God. Man can only be redeemed by the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, the incarnate Son of God, redeeming us from sin and all its consequences.

5.JESUS CHRIST AS LORD AND KING: The existence of Jesus Christ before creation, His incarnation, His atoning death, His bodily resurrection, His ascension to the right hand of God the Father, hence our High Priest, Saviour, Lord, and King.

EXISTENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT: The indwelling and working of the Holy Spirit in every believer, guiding, counseling and teaching, giving diverse gifts to believers. The working of the Holy Spirit in making the death of Jesus Christ effective to individual sinner granting him/her repentance towards God and Faith in Jesus Christ.
JUSTIFICATION BY GOD’S GRACE: Justification of the sinner by the Grace of God through Faith alone and not by one’s work or effort.
THE RAPTURE: The earnest expectation of the personal return of Jesus Christ to take the mature Church (bride), the 1000 years reign with Christ and the final, judgment and destruction of sin, death and Satan.
BAPTISM: The original baptism in many waters by immersion, signifying the death to sin and life to righteousness as death and resurrection of Christ, and also the baptism with Holy Spirit. We believe that the baptism and the Lord's Supper is a memorial to His suffering and death on the cross. These are ordinances to be observed by the church in its present age. They are, however, not to be regarded as means for man's salvation
THE BODY OF CHRIST: The existence of a universal Church of God, which is the body of Christ, where all true believers belong, (before God), not defined by congregation or location, but by action and conviction they that do the will of God.
SOUND DOCTRINE: The true teachings of Faith as taught in the original Scripts, handed down to us in the original texts and teachings of the Holy Bible, that which goes not contrary to the way of the early Church, in matters pertaining to conduct, dress, songs, giving’s, foods, marriage, worship and all other activities.
FAMILY AND MARRIAGE: The institution, placed, started and defined by God alone, as a union between man (male Adam) and woman (female Eve), as complete, good with children as blessings, and man as the head.
THE HOLY SABBATH: The Sabbath of the LORD as set aside by God during creation on the seventh day which in our time is on Saturday, that the whole creation should rest as the Creator did rest, from all their labour.
SALVATION. God offers mankind an opportunity to be saved from the consequence of his sinful life - death. This is possible because Jesus Christ already paid the penalty for mankind's sin by his sacrificial death. The process of salvation includes an individual's calling, repentance, baptism, justification, receiving of the Holy Spirit, life of faith and obedience, and finally being born into God's family as His child. Salvation is a freely given gift of God, through His unmerited pardon (grace).

HISTORY

Young Evangelistic Generation Mission is a Christian organization which is a non-profit making, non-denominational, non-political with a main mission to preach the gospel of turning back to God through repentance, preparing the Church for the second coming of Messiah. Y.E.G.M is engaged in several activities to reach many souls such as campus evangelism, conferences, workshops, retreats, high school evangelism, music worship nights and concerts, gospel campaigns, child sponsorship, children support centers, and Bible study support. These are done through many ministries within it such as bed of roses, smart love, music, vessels of honor ministries, and in partnership with other Christian organizations, ministries and congregations.

Organization can be dated back to 2016 as a Christian student organization in Kenya, when it started as Young Evangelistic Generation Evangelistic Ministry by Pastor Joseph Onono and Sharon Odhiambo. In 2020 Y.E.G.M was actively engaged in high school evangelism, primary school evangelism, door to door outreach, and interdenominational prayers.

In 2019 Dec Y.E.G.M and Jesus walk ministry partner together. The Y.E.G.M ministered to many high schools, colleges, university colleges, and universities. At the end of his secondary study, Pastor Joseph Onono saw the need to reach children, high school students, university students, and adults and making children’s home. Y.E.G.M boundaries it involves total all round worship, actively involved in praise and worship nights and choirs, smart love sermons, and vessel of Honor sermons. It is also involved in open air crusades a gospel campaigns. In community evangelism Y.E.G.M, is actively involved in rehabilitation of abandoned children and giving a new or better leaf of life to many destitute, orphans and vulnerable children Y.E.G.M is involved in improving living standards among the poor,

widows and those undergoing difficulties of various kinds.

Y.E,G.M will partner with any congregation in gospel outreach, other than Y.E.G.M but must be a congregation in good standing with the Word.

As members were won to Christ from dark ways, there was a need to shepherd them in the right doctrines of truth. This lead to the formation of Y.E.G.M

Ministry of Christ is a ministry shepherds the believers who are unchurched, but won to repentance by the Jesus Walk Ministry also accommodates those ready to restore the true Biblical worship even from other congregations. Y.E..G.M is committed to revival and reformation in the Worship that which has been diluted with secular influence.

Y.E.G.M is an organization that works without borders, and boundaries. It involves total all round

worship, actively involved in praise and worship nights and choirs, smart love sermons,

bed of roses and vessel of honor sermons. It is also involved in open air crusades and

gospel campaigns. In community evangelism Y.E.G.M, is actively involved in the

rehabilitation and giving a new or better leaf of life to many destitute, orphans and

vulnerable children. Y.E.G.M is involved in improving living standards among the poor,

widows and those undergoing difficulties of various kinds.

Y.E.G.M will partner with any congregation in gospel outreachin any congregation in good standing with the Word.

As members were won to Christ from dark ways, there was a need to shepherd them in the right doctrines of truth.

Young Evangelistic Generation Mission is a ministry that the believers who are unreached, but won to repentance by the Y.E.G.M and also accommodates those ready to restore the true Biblical worship even from other congregations. Y.E.G.M is committed to revival and reformation in the Worship that which has been diluted with secular influence.

Y.E.G.M has the following ministries for fulfilling her mission;

1.Oversee leadership system in all his ministries, as per for appointment and relieving of duties and responsibilities.

2.Identify areas and regions of all kinds of missions of any Y.E.G.M ministry, within a

given spiritual year in collaboration with the individual ministry.

3.Advises Y.E.G.M on conduct and action of all members, and officials of the ministry.

4.To mentor and develop leadership among the people in the ministry , and members.

5.Strengthen local Churches in areas of operations, after a careful scrutiny of their

activities, statement of faith and constitution. This is done through missions, open air forums, conventions, conferences and training.

6.To organize Bible Study at local level in collaboration with local Church leadership, disciple believers on matters of Faith and train and equip Bible study personnel.

7.To organize primary, secondary and tertiary education ministration through C.B.D

weekend challenges, conventions and worship nights

MINISTRIES OF Y.E.G.M

OUT REACH MINISTRY:

The wing that deals with: active evangelism, mission work, and gospel campaigns. This ministry is under the immediate leadership of the pastor. The ministry develope and implement a strategy for effective programs of community evangelism outreach such as visitation; Bible studies in homes, offices, places of works; special evangelistic meetings inside and outside of the church; and other needed programs to reach people with the gospel. This committee is also responsible for planning training events for soul-winning, as well as the production or securing evangelistic printed materials to be used by the church.

1.BED OF ROSES MINISTRY:

The wing that deals entirely with family life, marriage life, counseling and wedding issues. .

2.SMART LOVE MINISTRY:

A teaching wing that deals with: senior youth on sexual purity, relationship, dating and courtship.

OUTLINES

CORE MINISTRIES

CORE DEPARTMENTS

THEME COLOURS

Other colours

TENETS OF FAITH

OUTREACH MINISTRY:

BED OF ROSES MINISTRY:

SMART LOVE MINISTRY:

VESSELS OF HONOR MINISTRY:

LITTLE ANGELS MINISTRY:

MUSIC MINISTRY:

ASSET AND FINANCE OFFICE

LIFE SAVING AGENCY (L.I.S.A)

EDUCATION BOARD (E.B)

Y.E.G.M EVANGELISTIC MISSION CONSTITUTION

ARTICLE I: NAME

Young Evangelistic Generation Mission

ARTICLE II: PURPOSE STATEMENT

ARTICLE III: ASSOCIATION

ARTICLE IV: DOCTRINAL BASIS / STATEMENT OF FAITH

Section A. Qualifications:

Section B. Reception:

Section D. Orientation of New Members:

ARTICLE VI: Y.E.G.M OFFICERS

EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

NATIONAL Y.E.G.M. PASTORAL COMMITTEE

NATIONAL GOVERNING COMMITTEE

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE TEAM

NATIONAL BOARD MEMBERS

PARISH Y.E.G.M COMMITTEE

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Call:

III : MISSION COORDINATOR.

call

IV: PRAYER SECRETARY

Qualifications
Terms of Office.

V. CHIEF MUSICIAN

Call

CHIEF FINANCE OFFICER

Strategic Planning

Call

Terms of Office

Responsibilities

Call

Terms of Office

VIII : ESTATE MANAGER

Responsibilities

Terms of Office

IX: EDUCATION SECRETARY

Call
Terms of Office

X: SECRETARY WELFARE

Qualification

Responsibilities

Call
Terms of Office

B.VACCANCIES;

misconduct

ARTICLE VII : WORSHIP SERVICES:

Call

commitment

ARTICLE VIII : MEETINGS

Being responsible

ARTICLE IX. LICENSING AND ORDAINING

B. ORDINATION

ARTICLE X: Y.E.G.M

Y.E.G.M-GO: GOSPEL OUTREACH

MANDATE OF Y.E.G.M -GO.

OUTREACH MINISTRY:
BED OF ROSES MINISTRY:
SMART LOVE MINISTRY:
VESSELS OF HONOR MINISTRY:
LITTLE ANGELS MINISTRY:
MUSIC MINISTRY:

ASSET AND FINANCE

ASSET AND FINANCE OFFICE

Y.E.G.MM CO AGENCIES
LIFE SAVING AGENCY (L.I.S.A)
EDUCATION BOARD (E.B)
AGRICULTURE AND FOOD AGENCY (A.G.A.F.A)

ARTICLE XI. CHURCH DISCIPLINE

Church Charter

HOPE IN CHRIST

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

It has not been easy on my side when I started preaching the word. Brothers and sisters were away from me and being that my parents were not around to give me support I realize that God had a purpose for me being alive. We were even mocked by relatives, when one day I was walking towards the valley of death one of the people I went to stay with was my grandmother that was in 2010. I stayed for 3 years still it was not enough .My grandmother sent me away to go back to our land what I can remember is how I picked my cloths and put them in black polythene I started to walk back home .Without settling home one of my elder sister died while she was to join university she died on first 2011 where people were celebrating about it we fled home because of the enmity which a rises .We made our way away while carrying our cloths again on polythene so that we could make our life safe we did not know how much about God. Though it was not easy for me. The first book I produced when my brother died it could not bring any change to us in a family but in a spiritual growth in us. People did not relax to talk bad or oppose me even when I started by writing a gospel truck some students threw them a way .In High school it was not easy when I was spending my time to type the books it reduced my performance which other people could not understand rather to laugh about it. Due me being a Christian union leader and also a school captain life was so cruel on me but no one could understand due to that others tried to copy what I was doing I love how other Christian union leaders used to encourage me that even if it is very difficult I did not give up but just continue with the work of God “friends loving Jesus has made me what I am today even if you are not comfortable one day you will be .When you are thinking that all hopes are gone just rust in the lord. all .The books have written is through visions of the lord where I could see a very big board full of writing so my work was to listen to what God could give me others have been thinking in a negative way due to their attitude towards the word of God. Allow me to thank my friends who have been advising me not to give up in life even if we not on the right side of God. Have good heart to read the book despise the writer amen.

Table of Contents

ABOUT THE AUTHOR. i

Chapter 1. 1

THE TRIUMPH OF FAITH.. 1

THE COURAGE OF FAITH – GIDEON.. 4

THE COURAGE OF FAITH.. 7

THE COLLAPSE OF FAITH.. 10

THE COMMITMENT OF FAITH.. 14

THE STATEMENT OF FAITH.. 17

THE PRAYER OF FAITH.. 20

THE EXERCISE OF FAITH.. 23

THE AUDACITY OF FAITH.. 27

THE PERFECTER OF FAITH.. 30

Chapter 2. 34

THE SUBMISSION OF FAITH.. 34

THE GLORY OF HIS PERSON.. 37

THE MIRACLE OF HIS BIRTH.. 40

THE MEANING OF HIS BAPTISM... 44

THE REALITY OF HIS TEMPTATION.. 47

THE SPLENDOUR OF HIS TRANSFIGURATION.. 50

THE AUTHORITY OF HIS TEACHING.. 53

THE MESSAGE OF HIS MIRACLES. 56

Chapter 3. 60

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HIS DEATH.. 60

THE TRIUMPH OF HIS RESURRECTION.. 63

THE NECESSITY OF HIS ASCENSION.. 66

THE GIFT OF HIS SPIRIT. 69

THE CERTAINTY OF HIS RETURN.. 72

THE BRIDEGROOM AND HIS BRIDE. 75

PERSONAL COMMUNION WITH THE LORD.. 78

THE NEGLECTED VINEYARD.. 82

SITTING DOWN IN HIS SHADE. 85

THE LITTLE FOXES THAT SPOIL THE VINES. 88

THE WORK OF FAITH – NOAH.. 94

THE PERIL OF SPIRITUAL APATHY. 96

LEANING ON OUR BELOVED.. 99

FATHER’S LETTER TO HIS SON.. 105

Chapter4. 109

AN AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL PEN-PICTURE. 109

THE GOSPEL IN MINIATURE. 112

PAUL’S CONVERSION: 115

HYMENAEUS AND ALEXANDER. 118

Chapter5. 122

HOW, WHEN AND WHERE TO PRAY. 122

TEN QUALIFICATIONS FOR LEADERSHIP. 125

THE CREED OF THE EARLY CHURCH.. 128

A GOOD MINISTER OF CHRIST JESUS. 131

A CHRISTIAN’S SPIRITUAL EXERCISE. 134

A WORD TO THE WOMEN! 137

Chapter6. 141

ADVICE TO A MAN OF GOD.. 141

TIMOTHY, PAUL’S DEAR SON.. 144

GOD’S GIFT TO EVERY BELIEVER. 147

SALVATION.. 148

HOW TO GAIN GOD’S APPROVAL. 155

GOD’S SOLID FOUNDATION STANDS FIRM... 158

THE PARABLE OF THE LARGE HOUSE. 161

THE OBEDIENCE OF FAITH – ABRAHAM... 167

THE TRIAL OF FAITH – ABRAHAM... 173

Chapter7. 176

A SOLEMN CHARGE TO MINISTERS. 176

A GREAT CHRISTIAN’S DYING TESTIMONY. 179

GOD’S WAY OF DELIVERANCE. 185

THE PRAYER FOR A WICKED CITY. 188

THE PRAYER FOR SPECIAL GUIDANCE. 192

THE PRAYER FOR TRUE PROSPERITY. 195

THE PRAYER FOR DIVINE QUICKENING.. 198

THE PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL ILLUMINATION.. 201

Chapter8. 204

THE PRAYER FOR SEARCHING OF HEART. 204

THE PRAYER FOR GOD TO REND THE HEAVENS. 209

THE PRAYER FOR DELIVERANCE FROM TROUBLE. 212

SIMEON’S PRAYER FOR RELEASE. 215

THE FAMILY PRAYER, OR “THE LORD’S PRAYER”. 218

THE LORD’S GREAT PRAYER OF INTERCESSION.. 221

Chapter9. 225

THE SAVIOUR’S PRAYER IN GETHSEMANE. 225

THE DYING THIEF’S PRAYER FOR SALVATION.. 228

THE DISCIPLES’ PRAYER IN THE UPPER ROOM... 230

THE SOUL-WINNER’S PRAYER FOR ISRAEL’S SALVATION.. 234

PAUL’S PRAYER FOR HIS FRIENDS. 237

STEPHEN’S PRAYER FOR HIS ENEMIES. 239

THE BRIDE’S PRAYER FOR THE BRIDEGROOM’S RETURN 242

Chapter 1 THE TRIUMPH OF FAITH

(Hebrews 11:30; Joshua 3:1-17; 5:1-13,-15; 6:1-21)

In Christian life faith is so much important I was revealing the book of Hebrews 11:30, where we read that “By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days.” We notice in Joshua 6:20 that the walls of the city “collapsed”; and it is well to remember that modern archaeological and geological research have established the fact that there was an ancient city called Jericho and that the walls of this city did fall down.

Forty years elapsed between the crossing of the Red Sea and the capture of Jericho, during which the Children of Israel were in the “vast and dreadful desert” (Deuteronomy 8:15). Why was this? From their standpoint it was because of failure and unbelief – look up Hebrews 3:8 and 12. From God’s standpoint it was because of His purpose in chastening His children – look up Deuteronomy 8:2-5, and compare Hebrews 12:5-11. We would have thought that after the Red Sea deliverance the Israelites would have said, ‘We will never doubt God again!’ Probably they did say that, but they had evil and unbelieving hearts, as we all have – look p Hebrews 3:19. How frail we are, and how faithful He is!

After the Israelites had passed over Jordan “on dry ground”, the effect upon the surrounding nations was very great, and Jericho was a ‘closed city’ – compare Joshua 5:1 and 6:1; but, by faith, they were to capture Jericho. God promised to give it to them (see this in Joshua 6:2); and they had to trust Him to fulfil His word – read Joshua 6:3-5. It may be that you are seeking victory over sin, self and Satan and you want to learn the secret of the triumphant life – look up 2 Corinthians 2:14. If so, read Joshua 6:1-21 and notice from this graphic incident the characteristics of a faith which triumphs over every obstacle and difficulty.

It is simple in its activity.

We sometimes imagine that faith is a difficult and a mysterious thing. Is it? Just think for a moment. Jericho was to be captured. It was a walled city, and it would be impossible, even with a gigantic army, to overthrow the walls of that city – and yet that is exactly what the Israelites were to do, not with an army but by faith; they were simply to trust God to do it for them. Could anything be simpler than that? All they had to do was to “stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the Lord” – look up Exodus 14:13. This is faith’s way of victory over all our enemies, whether our enemy is the world (1 John 2:15-16); the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21); or the Devil (1 Peter 5:8). Human resources are quite insufficient, and the arm of flesh is altogether inadequate – look up Philippians 3:3. The way of victory, for life and for service, is to take the victory which God gives – look up and compare Joshua 6:2, 16 and 1 Corinthians 15:57. Victory is not achieved by struggle and by effort, it is received and experienced and enjoyed by faith – look up 2 Corinthians 3:5-6.

It is foolish in its explanation.

Ask Joshua how this great victory is to be achieved, and what does he reply? – Look up Joshua 6:15-16. ‘But Joshua, that is foolish!’ ‘Yes, but the wisdom of God is foolishness with men. This is how God is going to accomplish the victory. We have His word for it!’ – look up Joshua 6:2-5 and compare 1 Corinthians 1:25-29. How foolish to compass a city seven times! How foolish for the people to shout! How foolish for the priests to blow the trumpets! – Look up Joshua 6:20. But foolish though it may have seemed, “the wall collapsed.” God’s way is the best way, and the only way, however foolish it may seem. “It is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the prudence of the prudent will I reject. For consider, what have the philosopher, the writer and the critic of this world to show for all their wisdom? Has not God made the wisdom of this world look foolish? For it was after the world in its wisdom had failed to know God that He in His wisdom chose to save all who would believe by the ‘simple-mindedness’ of the gospel message” (1 Corinthians 1:19-21]

It is complete in its obedience.

A careful reading of Joshua 6 reveals that God’s instructions were carried out. Joshua, the priests and the people did what God commanded them, and this is an important mark of the faith that triumphs. How often we are slow to obey the Lord! And even when we intend to obey Him our obedience is sometimes only partial. He wants our full unquestioning obedience, and how pleasing this is to Him, and how profitable it is to us! For an Old Testament illustration of this kind of obedience, see 2 Samuel 15:15; and for a New Testament illustration, see Acts 8:26-30.

It is perfected in its testing.

It must have been a tremendous test of faith for Joshua and the Children of Israel to wait seven days before they saw the victory. Think how fatigued the men of war and the priests would be after compassing the city seven times on the seventh day – read Joshua 6:15-16. Their strength was at a very low ebb and their human resources were nil – and these are the conditions necessary before God can give His victories. Why? – The answer is in 1 Corinthians 1:29. How hard it must have been for the people to remain silent and to leave the whole situation to the Lord! But ‘waiting time is never wasted time’ when faith is operating and when it is God’s will that we are waiting for – compare Joshua 6:15-16 and 20-21 with Isaiah 28:16.

It is terrible (and wonderful) in its achievement.

It is terrible for the ungodly, but it is wonderful for the people of God. God’s deliverances are always accompanied by His judgments – carefully read Joshua 6:15, 16, 20, and 21. It was so in the case of the ark and the flood (Genesis 7:23); it was so in the case of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:28-30); and it was so in this case in the destruction of Jericho and the salvation of those who trusted Him. It will be so when God’s next victory is given; it will mean glory and triumph for His people (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17); but it will mean terrible sorrow and tears and eternal separation from the Lord for those who, like Jericho, are under condemnation – look up John 3:18; 3:36 and 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10.How grateful we should feel to the Lord if we have been led, through grace, to trust Him as our triumphant Savior and our God

THE COURAGE OF FAITH – GIDEON

Hebrews 11:32, Judges Chapters 6, 7 and 8:24-27)

Friend I was checking the life of prominent people of God those who had faith in the bible like Gideon in Hebrews 11:32-34 reminds us of the concluding verse in John’s Gospel (John 21:25). Gideon was the fifth judge of Israel, and when we are first introduced to him he presents a very pathetic picture – look up Judges 6:11. Fearing the Midianites and the Amalekites, who were all the time plundering Israel’s flocks, herds ad produce (Judges 6:4), Gideon was at this time engaged in threshing wheat in a place which was hidden from public view. Suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared to him and revealed the fact that he was to be the deliverer of God’s people – read Judges 6:12-16. The great trouble and distress which had fallen upon God’s people had come because they had forsaken Him and had done evil in His sight – we learn this from verses 1 and 13. In their distress they “cried out to the Lord” (verse 6), and He graciously commissioned Gideon to act in His Name, and He did this in answer to the cry of His people. If we disobey the Lord we must always suffer for our disobedience, but if we confess our sin, return to the Lord and seek to please Him, He will not fail to undertake for us and bless us – look up Proverbs 28:13. In order to appreciate the courage which Gideon displayed in trusting God it is necessary to read the whole of Judges Chapters 6, 7 and 8:24-27. Notice the following:-

It takes a courageous faith to hear and obey the call of God.

Think about this for a moment. Here was a timid, unknown young man threshing wheat, and suddenly the Lord called him to a very great service (Judges 6:11-12). Gideon felt utterly unfitted, unready and unworthy for such a task (see verse 15), and he told the Lord so; but the Lord only confirmed his call (see verse 16). From this moment on this timid young man had the courage and the faith to take God at His word and to go forth in His might – verse 14. There have been many more recent examples of this very thing. Carey was engaged in mending shoes when God laid the burden of the un evangelized in India upon his heart and called him to take the gospel to them; Moody was a salesman in a shoe store when God called him to a world-shaking task of evangelism; and Livingstone was only a mill worker in the little village of Blantyre in Scotland, when God called him to open up a highway for the gospel in Africa. To answer God’s call demands a courageous faith. Is He calling you to some special task?

It takes a courageous faith to throw down the altars of Baal.

In Judges 6:25 we learn of the special commission which God gave to Gideon, and what a challenge this was to his faith!

“Israel’s religious leaders were ‘Modernists’! They had turned away from the good old gospel of salvation by faith in the God who had brought Israel out of Egypt. They had said: ‘How do we know that Jehovah is the only real God? Or that He is even the greatest of the gods? After all, we have never seen Him; nor has anybody else ever seen Him. How do we really know that our forefathers were right in what they said about Him? We have only their word for it. They were probably mistaken. Look at the magnificent temples and impressive gods of the surrounding nations. No wonder they despise our own inferior-looking religion. Their gods can be seen. There can be no doubting their reality. Why should we cling to the worn-old faith of yesterday? Give us modern gods and an up-to-date religion!’” (J. Sid low Baxter).

It certainly takes courage to break down the modern altars of Baal. It means being unpopular when we denounce apostasy, but fearless, courageous believers are needed who will say with Paul – look up Philippians 1:17 and 20.

It takes a courageous faith to build up the altars of the Lord.

Gideon was not only told to break down the altars of Baal, but he was also commissioned to rebuild the altars of the Lord – see Judges 6:26. It takes faith to do that in days of apostasy. To cast worldliness, carnal methods and liberalism out of a church and to bring in an emphasis on prayer, the preaching of the gospel and the sovereignty of the Holy Spirit – this demands a courageous faith. To go to some of our schools, colleges and theological seminaries where the authority of the Bible is denied, and to do what Jude exhorts us to do, demands a courageous faith – look up Jude 3.

It takes a courageous faith to ask God for a sign.

Judges 6:36-40 are exciting verses. Was this evidence of Gideon’s lack of faith? No, for it required great faith to make such a proposal to the Lord, confident that He would perform the miracle. Gideon believed in miracles!

It takes a courageous faith to despise not the day of small things.

The enemy was very powerful, and numerically it was far greater than Gideon’s army (Judges 6:5). Gideon had 32,000 men (Judges 7:3); but what a shock when God told him to reduce his forces (Judges 7:2-3); and then to reduce them still further! (Judges 7:4-7). What a drastic subtraction this was! Why was it necessary? Verse 2 gives the answer, and so does Zechariah 4:6 and 1 Corinthians 1:27. Lest Israel should be tempted afterwards to say, ‘We gained the victory!’ God had to show manifestly that it was His victory and not theirs. He works in the same way today!

It takes a courageous faith to wield God’s weapons of warfare.

Gideon’s army had very strange weapons – trumpets, jars and torches! – read Judges 7:16 and 19-22. But to gain the significance of this read 2 Corinthians 4:7 and 10:4 and Revelation 12:11. It is hard to lay down our arms and to trust only in the Lord! – But this is the thing that He is calling us to do, as we live for Him and as we serve Him

It takes a courageous faith to go on with God after a great victory.

It is a pity that we have to conclude our study with this point, but it is necessary that we do so – look up Judges 8:24-27. It is always a dangerous time for the child of God after a time of victory, success or achievement. If God has given you a mighty deliverance, look out and be on your guard, and take heed to the counsel of Ephesians 6:13-18. The place of great blessing is always the place of great danger, but it can also be the place where we step on to greater victories.

THE COURAGE OF FAITH

Hebrews 11:32, Judges Chapters 6, 7 and 8:24-27)

I was looking at Gideon in the bible I realize that he was a man of faith lets Hebrews 11:32-34 reminds us of the concluding verse in John’s Gospel (John 21:25). Gideon was the fifth judge of Israel, and when we are first introduced to him he presents a very pathetic picture – look up Judges 6:11. Fearing the Midianites and the Amalekites, who were all the time plundering Israel’s flocks, herds and produce (Judges 6:4), Gideon was at this time engaged in threshing wheat in a place which was hidden from public view. Suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared to him and revealed the fact that he was to be the deliverer of God’s people – read Judges 6:12-16. The great trouble and distress which had fallen upon God’s people had come because they had forsaken Him and had done evil in His sight – we learn this from verses 1 and 13. In their distress they “cried out to the Lord” (verse 6), and He graciously commissioned Gideon to act in His Name, and He did this in answer to the cry of His people. If we disobey the Lord we must always suffer for our disobedience, but if we confess our sin, return to the Lord and seek to please Him, He will not fail to undertake for us and bless us – look up Proverbs 28:13. In order to appreciate the courage which Gideon displayed in trusting God it is necessary to read the whole of Judges Chapters 6, 7 and 8:24-27. Notice the following:-

It takes a courageous faith to hear and obey the call of God.

Think about this for a moment. Here was a timid, unknown young man threshing wheat, and suddenly the Lord called him to a very great service (Judges 6:11-12). Gideon felt utterly unfitted, unready and unworthy for such a task (see verse 15), and he told the Lord so; but the Lord only confirmed his call (see verse 16). From this moment on this timid young man had the courage and the faith to take God at His word and to go forth in His might – verse 14. There have been many more recent examples of this very thing. Carey was engaged in mending shoes when God laid the burden of the unevangelised in India upon his heart and called him to take the gospel to them; Moody was a salesman in a shoe store when God called him to a world-shaking task of evangelism; and Livingstone was only a mill worker in the little village of Blantyre in Scotland, when God called him to open up a highway for the gospel in Africa. To answer God’s call demands a courageous faith. Is He calling you to some special task?

It takes a courageous faith to throw down the altars of Baal.

In Judges 6:25 we learn of the special commission which God gave to Gideon, and what a challenge this was to his faith!

It takes a courageous faith to build up the altars of the Lord.

It takes a courageous faith to ask God for a sign.

It takes a courageous faith to despise not the day of small things.

It takes a courageous faith to wield God’s weapons of warfare.

It takes a courageous faith to go on with God after a great victory.

THE COLLAPSE OF FAITH

Hebrews 11:32; Judges 13:24-25; chapters 14 - 16

Did you ever realize that a Christian can collapse in faith??? Let’s check - 1 Corinthians 10:12. Did you ever know a Christian who at one time was on fire for the Lord but whose faith collapsed so that he became a backslider? – look up Galatians 5:7; and a castaway? – Look up 1 Corinthians 9:27, AV. There are many who were once keen for the Lord but who were afterwards drawn away from Him, and there is no more tragic example of this than that of Samson. His counterpart in the New Testament is Peter, and yet surely the case of Samson is more tragic, because it was after he had judged Israel for twenty years and had on many occasions demonstrated his faith in God that his collapse and downfall came. Samson, like Peter, was impetuous and impulsive, and he went down into ignominious defeat; and this is a solemn warning of the pitfalls into which any of us, but for the grace of God, may fall.

Samson was an unusual child, and he had wonderful parents (Judges 13:2-3). He was brought up as a Nazarite (Numbers 6:1-21 and Judges 13:7), which means that he had taken a vow to lead a life of separation unto the Lord. He was also a man of prayer (Judges 15:18 and 16:28), but he failed so terribly because he had not learned, as Paul did, to bring his body into subjection (1 Corinthians 9:27). Therefore, he became a castaway (that is, God had to put him on one side, for He could not use him for a time, though He restored him in the end).

What a solemn warning we have here against playing with sin in any form! Fancy a judge of Israel in the lap of a Delilah, lulled by the Devil, defeated and defiled, with his strength depleted and his sight gone! – And yet Judge Samson, with all his failings, is mentioned in Hebrews Eleven. Only grace can do this for a man. Notice the following lessons:-

Satan’s chief aim is to cause the faith of the child of God to collapse.

Satan masses all his forces to attack our faith. His one objective is to prevent faith – look up 2 Corinthians 4:4, and compare Luke 8:12. His one objective is to cause the believer’s faith to fail – (Luke 22:31-32); and often he attacks the believer’s faith in the most subtle ways (Judges 16:5). He sometimes comes as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8); but more often he comes as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Always remember that the Devil is out to rob you of your faith.

There is no position from which a collapse of faith is impossible.

Read through Judges 16 and notice every detail of Samson’s tragic entanglement with Delilah and of his downfall into sin, and remember that such is the power of the world, the flesh and the Devil that no believer can ever claim absolute immunity from a similar downfall. God’s grace and provision are quite sufficient to keep us, but it is terribly easy for us to take our eyes off the Lord and for our faith to collapse. See how this happened in a different way in the case of Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-18).

The collapse of faith does not take place suddenly but gradually.

The actual moment of collapse may be sudden to all appearances, but this is always preceded by an inward process of heart backsliding (Proverbs 14:14). Spiritual decline usually begins very gradually, but prayerlessness, lack of Bible study, or the permission of ‘small’ sins in the life is quite enough to start a spiritual landslide. This is what happened with Samson. He married a Philistine (Judges 14:1-7); then we see him gripped by a vindictive spirit (Judges 15:7-20); and then he relapsed into sin with Delilah (Judges 16:1-20). Romans 13:14 is admirable advice, and so is 1 Peter 2:11.

The collapse of faith is almost inevitable where there is much outward profession and little inward possession.

Samson was a Nazarite in outward appearance, but he knew little of inward heart-separation to the Lord. It is so easy for us to profess much with our lips and to possess little with our hearts, and to have a religion which is a form but not a force – look up and compare Matthew 15:8 and 2 Timothy 3:5. If Samson had been living in close touch with the Lord his faith would not have collapsed; on the contrary, he would have challenged the temptress and proved the power of the Lord to overcome the desires of the flesh – look up Galatians 5:16.

The collapse of faith follows the breaking of God’s commandments.

There was one particular way in which Samson disobeyed the Lord, and that was in his marriage to a Philistine wife (Judges 14:1-20). To disobey the clear commands of God is to court disaster (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). How solemn for a Christian to marry an unconverted partner! – look up Deuteronomy 7:3-4, and compare 1 Corinthians 7:39; how wrong for a Christian to go into partnership with an unconverted colleague! – look up 2 Chronicles 20:35-37; how dishonoring for a Christian to link together with unbelievers in a secret society or oath-bound lodge! – look up Matthew 6:19-24 and 2 Corinthians 4:1-3; how questionable it is whether or not a Christian should join a Church where the Bible is not believed, the gospel is not proclaimed and the Holy Spirit is not honored! – Look up Ephesians 4:30.

The collapse of faith carries with it a complete loss of testimony.

Think of it! Samson, the judge, the servant of God, in the lap of Delilah, his power gone, blind, and the laughing-stock of the ungodly! – read Judges Chapter 16 again. How important it is to abstain from all appearance of evil! (1 Thessalonians 5:22). Joseph was tempted to sin against the Lord but he overcame (Genesis 39:1-23). There is no situation from which the Lord is not able to save us if only we will cry to Him for help (Matthew 14:30-31).

When faith has collapsed it may be restored.

Thank God for that! The end of the story of Samson is very tragic, but it does tell us that he was restored to the Lord before his death; and such restoration may be yours and mine by the grace of God. In concluding this study look up Proverbs 28:13, for this tells us the way back, and be sure to compare 1 John 1:9, and then take heed to Ephesians 6:10. God still loves us, even when we stumble and fall always grieves Him, and when we turn away from Him, He waits for us to turn back – look up Luke 15:18-2

THE COMMITMENT OF FAITH

Hebrews 11:32; Judges 11:1-40

I love what Jephthah did when he was approached with his elders, mentioned next in Hebrews Eleven, and presented to us in Judges 11:1-40, is a strange character. His life was full of paradoxes, a mixture of vice and virtue, good and bad, triumph and disaster, the shedding of blood and the shedding of tears; but the principle of faith was at work in his life, and it is for this reason that he is mentioned in Hebrews Eleven. He was “a mighty warrior” (Judges 11:1), but he was an illegitimate child. This, of course, was not his fault, but in his case it proved to be a great handicap, for his family cast him out and disinherited him (verse 2). ‘His was not the sin, but his was the shame’. Here is a picture of social injustice, and it is still very prevalent today.

Branded as an outcast, there seemed only one thing for Jephthah to do – see verse 3; but unfortunately in taking this course he found himself associating with, and surrounded by, the wrong sort of ‘friends’, and he became a leader in vice – look up and compare Psalm 1:1 and Luke 15:13. What a testing time it is for young people when they leave home and go out into the world, and how essential it is that they go, not alone, but in the safe companionship of the Lord Jesus – look up Hebrews 13:5-6! Then, we are told, war threatened Israel and Jephthah (of all people) was sent for and commanded to lead the Israelites into battle – look up Judges 11:4-8. Jephthah agreed to be their captain (verses 8-11), and the closing phrase in verse 11 is the first indication we have of his faith in God. Please read on through the chapter, and particularly notice verses 30-31 and 34-40. The vow which Jephthah made was a definite act of commitment before the Lord, and it is about this that we are to think now.

Jephthah’s vow was a commitment of faith.

See what we read in verses 30 and 31 – “If you give…I will sacrifice…” It was certainly a very strange vow for a man to make, but surely in it we see an indication of Jephthah’s faith in God. It is as though he said, ‘Lord, I must have your help, and if you will help me and give victory over our enemies, then I promise you I will…’ Jephthah cast himself upon the providence of God. Maybe it was a rash vow that he made, but the point is he was willing to trust God, and it is this which was so precious to the Lord. The one thing that the Lord wants of His children is that they learn to trust Him, to “live by faith, not by sight” – look up 2 Corinthians 5:7.

Jephthah’s vow was solemn and binding.

It was made, as verse 30 tells us, “to the Lord”, and it is significant that in the previous verse we are told that “the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah” (verse 29). Did you ever realize that while we are not compelled to make vows, if we do so the Lord will hold us to our word? – Look up Deuteronomy 23:21-23. We sometimes forget the vows we have made before the Lord, but God never forgets them, and it is for this reason that having made the vow we cannot go back! – see what verse 35 says.

Jephthah’s vow was made voluntarily.

There was no obligation for him to make the vow, for God had not demanded it. But having made it, it was now binding – look up Numbers 30:2. If we make a solemn promise before the Lord, unless our promise involves something which is altogether contrary to His will, we cannot go back. If we have committed ourselves to the Lord in some specific way, concerning some specific matter, we must seek grace to keep our word. Is the Holy Spirit reminding you of some vow you made to the Lord which still awaits fulfilment? There is a good bit of advice in John 2:5!

Jephthah’s vow was made at a time of crisis.

It was made on the eve of battle, as we learn from Judges 11:30-31. Most vows are made in a time when we are hard pressed and feel our desperate need of God’s help and deliverance. Look up the following references, and be sure to make the necessary spiritual application to your own life – Genesis 28:20-22; 1 Samuel 1:10-11; Psalm 66:13-14; Jonah 1:16 and 2:9. Did you make some vow when you were seriously ill, or when you were unemployed, or when you were in some other trouble? Have you fulfilled your vow?

Jephthah’s vow was shattering in its demands.

Read Judges 11:34-35 again and try to take in the whole situation. Surely this man must have been tempted to break his vow! We are not told that he was thus tempted, but could it have been otherwise? Do you think that Matthew 10:37-38 fits in rather appropriately just here? It may be that you have been tested along this line? If so, seek grace to honor the Lord, and He will surely honor you – look up 1 Samuel 2:30.

Jephthah’s vow involved another life.

Yes, and what a truly noble life it was! How wonderfully Jephthah’s daughter responded to this new and terrible situation, as we learn from verse 36! Another beautiful illustration of perfect submission is found in Luke 1:38, and yet another outstanding example is found in 1 Samuel 3:18!

Jephthah’s vow was fully performed.

We do not know whether his daughter was actually offered as a burnt offering or whether she was simply devoted to a life of perpetual virginity, which was a tragic fate, for every Jewish girl hoped she would be the mother of the Messiah. What we do know is that whatever Jephthah intended when he made the vow, he performed it to the very letter.

We cannot conclude this study in a better way than by joining Judges 11:35 with Luke 9:62 –

“I have made a vow to the Lord that I cannot break”; for, “No-one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.

THE STATEMENT OF FAITH

Hebrews 11:32; 2 Samuel 24:10-25

There are many passages of scripture in which we have evidence of David’s great faith in God. The one I have chosen is 2 Samuel 24:10-25, and in verse 24 we find David’s great statement of faith: “I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” These statements of faith are often made when people are “in deep distress” (verse 14). Notice the people who made statements of faith when they were hard pressed – Hannah (1 Samuel 1:27-28); the psalmist (Psalm 55:15-16); Jeremiah (Lamentations 3:24); Jonah (Jonah 2:2-9); Habakkuk (Habakkuk 3:17-19). If we are really trusting God there will be many times in our experience when we shall be led to make such heart-felt declarations of our faith in Him and of our intention to take some action which will be for His glory. Turn now to 2 Samuel 24:10-25 and notice some of these times.

When should a statement of faith be made?

When we are conscious of sin and have repented of it. From verse 10 we learn that David’s sin had been the sin of numbering the people. Why was this sinful? It was a sin because evidently it was an indication of his pride. David was glorying in numbers, and this is always grievous to the Lord – look up Psalm 33:16-22. Pride has been the downfall of many a servant of God. When God revealed this sin David was quick to acknowledge his wrong and to seek God’s forgiveness (Isaiah 42:8 and 48:11).

When God asks us for this statement. In the case of David the Lord spoke to him through Gad, who is described as “David’s seer” – see verses 11-13 and compare 1 Samuel 9:9. So the word of the Lord came to David through one of God’s servants. His word often comes to us in the same way, through the preacher, through a loved one, through a friend, or sometimes through an enemy. God speaks to us and then waits for us to make a statement of faith.

When we have acted out of a wrong motive. From verses 11-13 we learn that the Lord forgave David, but He had to humble him, and what a choice David had to make! David was determined not to do the wrong thing again and thus displease the Lord, and so he said – verse 14! Here David’s faith shone out brightly – look up and compare 1 Samuel 3:18. What David really said was, ‘Let God make the choice, in case I do the wrong thing!’ So, his trust was completely in the Lord, in His sovereignty and in His overruling purposes; and God did make the choice – see verse 15. How often we act out of a wrong motive! We need to search our hearts to make sure that our motives for the words we speak and for our actions are pure before God – look up Acts 24:16.

How should a statement of faith be made?

A statement should be made in God’s way. What was God’s way for David? From verses 21-22 we learn that all that David was doing and contemplating for the Lord was on the basis of a sacrifice; and whether we come to God to worship Him or to serve Him, there is only one way of approach, and that way is by the offering that has been made by our great Sacrifice (Hebrews 10:19-22). Any promise that we make, any declaration of desire and intention to serve the Lord or to give our all to the Lord, is only acceptable on the grounds of Calvary.

A statement should be made in a personal way. We learn this from verses 23-24. Arana would have given the threshing-floor and the oxen to David for David to offer a sacrifice to the Lord, but this was not good enough. David must buy them, at a cost, so that he could give sacrificially to the Lord. No-one else could do this for him. It is our offering that the Lord wants, not what someone else gives for us; it is our voluntary act of sacrifice that is pleasing to the Lord.

A statement should be made in a sacrificial way. For David, as verse 24 tells us, it had to be a costly offering. We are not to give because we are under law or because it is a matter of commandment; but we are to give because of love for the Lord Jesus who gave His all for us. Do we give to the Lord in a costly way, or do we only give what costs us nothing? For example: take the question of the giving of money to the Lord and to His work. Is it not true that many of God’s people pay all their bills, buy their necessities and enjoy their luxuries, and then, if there is anything left over, they give something to the Lord? There is no sacrifice in this kind of giving. The Lord would have us give in a sacrificial way, and any promise that we make to Him must be characterized by sacrifice.

Who should make a statement of faith?

The answer to this question is – the believer, the Christian, the child of God, the servant of God; and how much we have to offer Him! There is a sense in which the unbeliever has nothing acceptable to offer to Him – look up and see what Proverbs 15:8 tells us! Before an unbeliever can offer anything to the Lord he must receive salvation from the Lord – look up Psalm 116:12-14; then, having taken the gift of salvation, as a believer he has much to offer to the Lord Jesus; and in each offering that he makes, a statement of faith is also made in the presentation of the offering. What does this involve for the Christian? It involves:-

The sacrifice of praise and of thanksgiving (Psalm 116:17; Jeremiah 33:11; Jonah 2:9 and Hebrews 13:15).

The sacrifice of obedience (1 Samuel 15:22).

The sacrifice of our bodies (Romans 12:1 and 2 Corinthians 8:5).

The sacrifice of time and talents (Ephesians 5:16).

The sacrifice of possessions (Mark 10:21-22 and Acts 4:34-37).

The sacrifice of friendships (1 Corinthians 7:39 and 2 Corinthians 6:17).

The sacrifice of loved ones (1 Samuel 1:11 and Mark 10:29-30).

These are costly offerings to bring before the Lord, but is He not worthy of the very best? What offering is He calling you to make, what promise? Go through the list above again. Does He ask you to make the promise of faith suggested by: (1)…? (2)… (3)… (4)… (5)… (6)…or (7)… (Above)? In concluding this study please ponder the great testimony of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:4-1

THE PRAYER OF FAITH

(Scripture References: Hebrews 11:32; 1 Samuel 7:1-14)

Let’s check what and how mentioning of Samuel’s name in Hebrews 11:32 is an indication to us to turn to the Old Testament scriptures in order to find out how the principle of faith operated through this man’s life and ministry – but to which portion shall we turn? In this study we shall follow the suggestion made by the marginal reference in the Scofield Bible which directs us to 1 Samuel 7:1-14, and in particular to verses 5 and 9. These verses introduce our theme: the prayer of faith. They read as follows – “Then Samuel said, Assemble all Israel at Mishap and I will intercede with the LORD for you” (verse 5). “He cried out to the LORD on Israel’s behalf, and the LORD answered him” (verse 9). It is the privilege of every Christian to pray, and to pray not only for himself but for others; in other words, to exercise a ministry of intercession. One of the conditions for successful prayer is that such prayer must be offered in faith; it must be the prayer of faith. The one who prays must be a man or a woman of faith – for two clear statements regarding this look up and compare Mark 11:22-24 and James 5:15. What, then, are the characteristics of the prayer of faith? In 1 Samuel 7:1-14 we shall find the answer to this question. Verses 1 and 2 of the chapter tell us that God’s people were in a sorry state spiritually, religiously, and from the last part of verse 2 it would seem that they longed that things might be different; so Samuel called the people together, and because they were in great danger from their enemies, the Philistines, he prayed the prayer of faith, which was wonderfully answered. Now notice:-

1, The Prayer of Faith must be accompanied by penitence, confession of sin and amendment of life.

We learn this from verses 3-6. Please notice the following words, their significance and the order in which they occur, in verse 3 – “Whole…if…returning…all…rid yourselves…commit yourselves…serve him only…” What lessons there are for us in these four verses! Verse 4 tells us of the response and obedience of God’s people; verse 5 of Samuel’s readiness and willingness to pray for them; and verse 6 of their humility, confession of sin and deep desire for God’s blessing. Only as hindrances are removed can we pray the prayer of faith – look up and compare Psalm 66:18 and Isaiah 59:1-2.

The Prayer of Faith will be challenged by doubts and fears, but it will persist in spite of every discouragement.

We learn this from verses 7 and 8, verses which, incidentally, are full of encouragement for ourselves. The reason the people became fearful was that they looked at their enemies, their circumstances, their problems, their difficulties, and whenever we do that we become fearful. What they needed to do was to turn their eyes away to the Lord. This, as verse 8 tells us, is exactly what they did. When Peter “saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out…” If only Peter had kept his eye on the Lord! No wonder the Lord Jesus said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” – Look up Matthew 14:25-33. But faith is always beset by doubts and fears. Noah must have had doubts when he was building the ark (Genesis 6:14 and 22); Abraham must have had doubts as he moved out of Ur (Genesis 12:1 and 4); Moses must have had doubts as he crossed the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21, 22 and 29); Joshua must have had doubts concerning the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:1-5 and 20); but when their doubts came they went on praying and trusting. They turned away from their circumstances to the Lord, as in verse 8.

The Prayer of Faith is specific, and is directed to the Lord.

Look again at verse 8 and notice the words “crying out to the Lord…for us, that he may rescue us from the hand of the Philistines”. This was not a nebulous kind of prayer. Samuel did not generalize when he prayed. He directed his prayer to the Lord because He is always the object of our faith, and the One to whom we look and in whom we are trusting, and he asked for exactly what was needed. He was specific in his request – look up and compare 1 Samuel 10, 11 and 20; and Luke 11:9-13. The Lord invites us and wants us to be specific and definite in our prayers. He encourages us to tell Him exactly what we need, and He promises to meet our need – look up Philippians 4:19, and compare Psalm 62:5. What is your need just now? Look to Him and ask Him to meet your need – see His promise in Psalm 50:14-15!

The Prayer of Faith must be offered on the grounds of a blood sacrifice.

We learn this from verse 9, and here we see ‘the cross in the Old Testament’. There is only one way for a guilty sinner to approach and enter the presence of a holy God; it is by the “new and living way” which is sprinkled with atoning blood. All other ways of access will fail. Thus, Cain’s way failed but Abel’s succeeded (Genesis 4:3-5); the Pharisee’s way failed but the publican’s way succeeded (Luke 18:9-14). In Hebrews 10:19-22 we have a clear statement of this glorious truth.

The Prayer of Faith will always be challenged by the powers of darkness.

It is significant that we read in verse 10 that it was while the people were gathered together and Samuel was offering up the burnt offering that their enemies drew near to attack them. This surely reminds us of the fact that when we pray, at once we enter into a great spiritual conflict. We learn this from Ephesians 6:10-18, and in particular in verse 12 of this portion; and we have an illustration of this very thing happening in the life of Daniel, in Daniel 10:10-21. How Satan hates any reference to the blood of Christ! – For this is the sinner’s only access into the presence of a holy God, and he fiercely challenges us as we seek to draw near to the Lord in worship and in prayer.

The Prayer of Faith is a prayer that is always answered.

We learn this from verse 10, and also from verses 13 and 14. God gave His people a mighty victory, and in answer to their prayers there was a miraculous intervention – a wonderful illustration of Jeremiah 33:3! Every prayer that is offered in faith, in the Name of Jesus and for the glory of God, is always answered abundantly – look up and compare John 14:13-14 and Ephesians 3:20-21.

The Prayer of Faith is a prayer that gives God all the glory.

We learn this from verses 11 and 12 – “Ebenezer”! God has done it! His is the victory! – Look up Psalm 126:3

THE EXERCISE OF FAITH

(Scripture Portions: Hebrews 11:1-4; Genesis 4:1-8; Luke 18:10-14)

A Christian how often do you practice faith? Hebrews 11 contains the most complete treatise on faith to be found in the Bible, and its biographical illustrations show us faith at work in the lives of a variety of people. We shall see the presence, the principle, the power and the possibilities of faith. They were all ordinary, sinful people; but they are mentioned because they believed God. Faith is the indispensable quality for which God looks – look up Hebrews 11:6 and 1 John 5:10. The difference between the Christian and the non-Christian is that in the life of the former the principle of faith is operative, whereas in the life of the latter faith is not present – look up Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38.

The first man of faith is Abel – read Hebrews 11:1-4, and compare Genesis 4:1-8. As we look at Abel we see that it was his faith which enabled him to approach God and to worship Him acceptably. Notice that in Hebrews 11:5 we read of Enoch, who walked with God; and in Hebrews 11:7 we read of Noah, who worked for God; but, we first read of Abel, who worshipped God. Worship is the highest function of the human soul, and only as we are able to worship can we effectively walk with and work for God.

How can a man approach God and be accepted by Him? There are two ways – the true way and the false way, and these are represented by Cain and Abel and the offerings they brought to the Lord. Cain was rejected because his offering was not acceptable to God. Abel was accepted because the offering he brought was acceptable to God. We are all like Abel or Cain – believers or unbelievers. How did Abel exercise faith in the Lord?

ABEL EXERCISED FAITH BY DISCOUNTING HUMAN SCHEMES, METHODS AND REASONING AND BY OBEYING GOD.

Picture these two men, Cain and Abel. Before they could come into the presence of God they must bring an offering, because they were sinners. How do we know they were sinners? – Romans 5:12 tells us. So both men built an altar, and Cain brought his offering – ‘the fruits of the soil’; and Abel brought his offering from ‘fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock’ – a sacrificial lamb. Cain’s offering was far more attractive than Abel’s, but Abel’s offering was what God wanted, because He had evidently revealed His way of salvation to his parents, Adam and Eve. We learn this from Genesis 3:15, and from Genesis 3:21. Before the skins could be provided for a covering for Adam and Eve, an animal had to be killed and blood had to be shed. So, while Cain placed upon the altar the fruits of his own labor – grain, vegetables, which he had raised by his own efforts – Abel, his brother, took a perfect lamb, killed it, poured the blood at the side of the altar and placed the lamb upon the altar. Abel’s offering anticipated the coming of the Lamb of God – look up Exodus 12:3; Leviticus 9:3; John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:19; Revelation 13:8 – it typified the sacrifice of Calvary. There is only one way for a sinner to approach a holy God, and that is through the shed blood of the Lamb; and to exercise faith in God means to recognize this fact and to approach Him in this way.

ABEL EXERCISED FAITH BY ACKNOWLEDGING HIS SIN AND HIS NEED OF GOD’S FORGIVENESS.

There is no hint that Cain made any acknowledgment of sin; but Abel’s sacrifice and offering spoke not only of man’s sin, but also of God’s remedy for sin – look up Hebrews 9:22. Cain and Abel are the O.T. counterparts of the Pharisee and the publican – look up Luke 18:10-14. One was proud, and he was rejected; the other was humble, and he was accepted; one was blind in his sin, and full of self-righteousness; the other acknowledged his need of God’s forgiveness.

ABEL EXERCISED FAITH BY RECOGNISING THAT NO WORK OR EFFORT OF HIS OWN COULD GAIN HIS ACCEPTANCE BEFORE GOD.

The language of Abel was, ‘Not the labor of my hands can fulfil Thy law’s demands…Nothing in my hand I bring; simply to Thy cross I cling’. But the language of Cain was, ‘All the labor of my hands can fulfil Thy law’s demands. Something in my hand I bring…’ Cain brought his best, but it was not acceptable – look up Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:20; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5.

ABEL EXERCISED FAITH BY PROVIDING AN OFFERING THAT FORESHADOWED THE GREAT OFFERING FOR SIN.

As Abel brought his offering him, in effect, prayed like this: ‘O God, I am a sinner. I have broken your holy law, and I deserve to die for my sins. But You gave my father and mother a promise of the Coming One who is to take away our sin, and I come to You in the way which You have commanded me, to show You that I believe Your promise and trust the Coming One. Accept the life of this little lamb in the place of my life, and forgive my sins for the sake of the Lamb who is to come’ – now look up Isaiah 53:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 1:7.

ABEL EXERCISED FAITH BY ACCEPTING GOD’S TESTIMONY THAT HE WAS RIGHTEOUS.

In Hebrews 11:4 we read that ‘By faith he was commended as a righteous man.’ This means that Abel believed that through his offering God had accepted him and had justified him. Abel’s faith, therefore, brought him the assurance of salvation. So should ours – look up Romans 8:1, and compare Hebrews 10:19-22.

In concluding this study, notice two more references to Abel.

In Hebrews 12:24 we read that the blood of Jesus ‘speaks a better word than that of the blood of Abel’. While the blood of Abel was prophetic and pointed forward to that which was to be, the blood of Jesus, on the other hand, declares that the whole work of salvation is finished. His offering was, and is, historic.

In Hebrews 11:4 we read that Abel, by his faith, ‘still speaks even though he is dead’. This means that Abel continues to proclaim from age to age that there is only one way for a guilty sinner to be saved; there is only one acceptable way for a man to approach a holy God, and that way is through faith in the precious blood of Christ – look again at Hebrews 9:22

THE AUDACITY OF FAITH

(Scripture References: Hebrews 11:35; 2 Kings 4:8-37)

I don’t know if you are understanding what I meant by the word audacity??In Hebrews 11:35 we read “women received back their dead, raised to life again”. These miracles were wrought by God through faith. One of these was the woman of Zarephath whose son died and was raised to life in answer to the prayer of Elijah (1 Kings 17:17-24). The other was the woman of Shumen whose son died and was raised to life in answer to the prayer of Elisha (2 Kings 4:8-37). In each case it is the faith of the prophet which is referred to. The women may have had some faith, but they received the blessing that came in response to the faith of Elijah and Elisha. In this study we consider Elisha and the woman of Shumen. Please read 2 Kings 4:8-17. Elisha had been a great blessing to the woman of Shumen and to her husband, and it was through his prayer to the Lord that the child had been born to them; but when the child grew up tragedy came to that family, for verses 18-20 tell us that the child died. Immediately, the boy’s mother went into action (verses 21-26). Notice that the woman of Shumen had no confidence in Ghazi. This is the meaning of her words, “Everything is all right” in verse 26. In actual fact it was not well. What she meant was that she wanted to see Elisha, whose faith shines out here as an audacious and a bold faith. What does it really mean to trust in God?

It needs great faith to trust God when we cannot trace His working.

If God had given this boy in answer to Elisha’s prayer, why had He allowed him to die? This was the big question which must have faced the boy’s mother and Elisha also – read verses 15 to 20. What a puzzling and challenging situation it was as the poor mother stood before Elisha! – see verses 27 and 28. What could Elisha say? Could he tell her why God had permitted this thing to happen? No, he could not! And you cannot say why God permits similar things to happen in your experience. There are times when we have to trust God in the dark. It needs an audacious, bold faith to trust God when we cannot trace Him. Perhaps you have to do that just now? Turn to John 11:1-25, and in particular notice verses 1, 3,4,5,6 and 15! What a test of faith it is when Jesus keeps us waiting for the answer to our prayers!

It needs great faith to trust God when those who serve Him and profess to know Him have failed to secure the desired result.

We learn this from verses 29-31. Ghazi was Elisha’s servant, but he was out of touch with the Lord, and even though he had Elisha’s staff in his hand and had been commissioned by Elisha, when he laid the staff on the child nothing happened. Ghazi was a mere formalist – look up 2 Timothy 3:5; he had the form but not the force – look up Matthew 17:14-21 for a parallel illustration from the New Testament. So Ghazi’s failure was an added challenge to Elisha’s faith. The situation was rather like that described in Mark 5:25-26.

It needs great faith to trust God when the situation is desperate.

What was the real condition of the boy? How desperate was his case? The answer is in verse 32. Could anything be more desperate than this? The boy was not only dead, but he had been dead some while – look up and compare John 11:38-44. How impossible the situation must have seemed! Humanly speaking it was. Elisha knew that, and Ghazi proved it, and the broken-hearted mother knew it also; but – look up Genesis 18:14, and compare Matthew 19:26. Is your case a desperate one? God asks you to trust Him. Will you not do so? Stop! And at this moment lift up your heart in prayer and tell the Lord that you do trust Him with your life and your circumstances, then look up Psalm 37:5!

It needs great faith to discern God’s will and to pray the prayer of faith.

Please give attention to verses 32 and 33. Elisha needed faith to discover God’s will in this situation, for it is not always God’s will to heal the sick or to raise the dead. He can do it, but very often He does not do it because it is not His will; and faith does not alter God’s will. To claim that God will do something that is contrary to His will is not faith but presumption. What Elisha had to do was to find out what God’s will was and then to pray the prayer of faith. In this case the prophet discerned that God wanted to raise the child from the dead, and so he asked Him to do it. It needs faith to accept sickness or death from the Lord, just as it needs faith to ask for and receive healing from His hand; faith to “escape the edge of the sword” and faith to be “sawn in two” – compare Hebrews 11:34 and 37.

It needs great faith to identify ourselves in a practical way with the one whose need is so great.

From verse 34 we learn that in answer to Elisha’s prayer God performed a miracle. What faith was needed on Elisha’s part! What audacity to shut the door and to have everybody waiting outside while he, on the inside, asked God to raise up the boy! – look up and compare Acts 9:36-43.

It needs great faith to persevere until prayer is fully answered.

In this case prayer was answered in a most wonderful way, as we learn from verse 35; but before the answer came, “Elisha turned away and walked back and forth in the room”. Surely he was waiting upon God, making quite sure of His will, strengthening his faith, talking to the Lord and wrestling in prayer. Then, fortified and full of faith, he went back to the child and again went through the process of identification with the boy – and suddenly the answer came. Prayer was answered and Elisha’s faith was vindicated, for God had raised the boy up. God does not always at once say “Yes” to our prayers. Sometimes He says “Wait”, but His delays are not denials, so bring your need to Him and keep on praying!

It needs great faith to secure a testimony for the glory of God.

The story ends in a very quiet way, as we learn from verses 36-37. But how beautifully it ends! – look up and compare 1 Kings 17:21-24.

In conclusion notice Romans 10:11, which may literally read: ‘No-one who believes on Him, adheres to Him, relies on Him and trusts in Him, will ever be disappointed.

THE PERFECTER OF FAITH

(Scripture References: Hebrews 11:35-40; 12:1-2)

Hebrews 12:1-2! In these two verses the summed up his great discourse in which he expounds the principle, the power and the possibilities of faith. Although we have taken many studies on this theme and section of scripture, we have omitted many important references to those who lived and worked by faith and “of whom the world was not worthy” (Hebrews 11:38). I begin by emphasizing the fact that all the ‘heroes of faith’ who appear in Hebrews Eleven were imperfect. Because of this we are not to take any one of them as our example of a life of faith. We are to receive encouragement and inspiration from them, but faith was not perfected in them. Where can we see the principle of faith perfectly portrayed? The answer is – Jesus. He is the supreme example of faith. Hebrews 12:2 tells us that we are to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfected of our faith" for He alone, as the perfect Man, had perfect faith. In order to make this final study practical in its application to ourselves, notice the following sequence of truth in Hebrews 12:1-2.

As believers we are all running a race.

This is what we are told in Hebrews 12:1. Paul spoke of the Christian life as a race – look up 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, and compare the last phrase in Hebrews 12:1. We as believers are running a race. Notice that:-

The course for the race is already set (end of verse 1). The Lord has set the course and He leads us in it and along it (Psalm 16:11 and Psalm 37:23).

Running the race is a strenuous business. It is a race, not a walk, and certainly not’ dwells! The writer says, “Let us run…”

It requires courage and perseverance. There are difficulties, obstacles and enemies in our path, and thus perseverance and endurance are needed.

If we are to win the race there must be sacrifice. It is important to notice that all do not win – look up 1 Corinthians 9:24. To win, “everything that hinders” must be thrown off and “sin” must be judged and put away. Weights are lawful things but they are not beneficial (1 Corinthians 6:12); and sin is s-I-n, which must not be tolerated in any shape or form – look up 2 Timothy 2:19.

As we run the race we are surrounded by a great crowd of witnesses, all of whom have run the race before us.

Notice in verse 1 that the word is “witnesses” and not “spectators”. The popular idea is that those who have gone to Heaven are now watching us run the race down here. The real point made here is that the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews Eleven, and all others who have lived by faith, witness to us of the power of faith – as Abel, for example, who “still speaks, even though he is dead.” (Hebrews 11:4).

Though these witnesses encourage us in the race they all failed in the race, and they are not perfect examples of faith.

We emphasize this again because it is so important in view of what follows. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Gideon and Samson all failed. Where, then, is there an example of faith which is perfect? Is there one in whom faith has been supremely revealed in its working? Yes, there is!

The perfect example of faith is Jesus.

Notice that it was Jesus, as man and as our representative, who perfectly demonstrated the power and principle of faith. We think of Abel worshipping by faith, of Enoch walking by faith, of Noah working by faith, of Abraham obeying by faith – but the Lord Jesus is the supreme illustration of faith. Think of Him worshipping, walking, working, obeying…! As the perfect man He perfectly trusted God. He is the Author of faith, the One who takes precedence over all others.

The faith of Jesus was operative throughout the whole of His life, in all His ministry, and in His death.

In verse 2 the writer tells us four things which cover our Lord’s life, ministry and death, and which reveal His faith.

“For the joy set before Him…” This is what faith is (Hebrews 11:1). He showed His great faith as a boy in the temple – look up Luke 2:49; and when He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem – look up Luke 9:51.

“Endured the cross…” By faith Abraham offered Isaac, and “reasoned that God could raise the dead” (Hebrews 11:19); but by faith Jesus offered Himself, believing that He would rise again – look up Matthew 16:21.

“Scorning its shame…” He not only endured it but He despised it, because He knew that after the cross would be the crown – look up Matthew 16:21 and 27.

“And sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” This could not be said of Abel, Enoch, Noah etc. …only of Him. Jesus is there now (Hebrews 2:9).

Therefore, as we run the race we are to look to Jesus, the supreme Example, the Leader and Vindicator of faith.

How great the words are in Hebrews 12:2! – “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus”; but the Greek word literally reads, “Looking off unto Jesus”. Do you see? – Not looking to Abel, or to Enoch, or to Noah, but looking off from these to Jesus, for only with Him will the vision be satisfied. Here is the secret of the life of faith, of running the race with patience, without weights and sin to encumber us, and of being a victorious, holy and useful Christian – “looking off unto Jesus” – away from sin, away from self, away from failure, away from people, and away from circumstances – to Jesus.

As we contemplate Jesus as the Perfected of faith we must remember that He is the One who perfects faith in us.

He is “the author and perfected of our faith”, and although the word “our” should be omitted it is nevertheless true that He does initiate faith in the believer, bestow faith upon the believer and maintain faith in the believer, because faith is the gift of God (Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:8-10 and Philippians 1:6). The faith we possess is His gift to us, and He perfects it in us. One meaning of the word “Perfected” is this: He is the One who brings us safely through to the end. Therefore, let us look off unto Jesus, to Jesus only, always and forever. He will never change, He will never fail, and He will never let us go – look up Hebrews 13:5-6! Thus, we conclude this series of studies by “Looking off unto JESUS

Chapter 2 THE SUBMISSION OF FAITH

(Hebrews 11:34; Daniel 3:17-27)

In this chapter we are going to check many thing lets focuses upon the three men in Daniel chapter three, who glorified the Lord in the fires – look up Isaiah 43:2. It is probable that the writer to the Hebrews had Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in mind when he wrote – Hebrews 11:34. While many of us may never be faced with the necessity of entering a literal fiery furnace it is nevertheless true if we are determined to be faithful to the Lord we shall know the significance of Peter’s words in 1 Peter 4:12-16. There is no immunity from trials by virtue of the fact that we belong to the Lord. We are to expect testing and trial as part of our heritage in Christ – look up John 16:33 and Philippians 1:29. If you are a dedicated Christian, determined to be loyal to the Lord at all costs, do not be surprised when the fires of Satan’s and the world’s hatred are heaped upon you. All around the world God’s people are in the fires today. Those of us who are spared this terrible ordeal should equip and arm ourselves so that if the trial should come to us we too would glorify the Lord, as did Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Indeed, this story in Daniel 3 is a pictorial forecast of events still future. There is prophecy here as well as authentic history. Every day we are tempted to deny the Lord whom we love and serve, just as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were tempted to deny Him. May we be encouraged as we consider these three brave men who exercised faith in their time of fierce testing?

If you trust in God your faith will be challenged.

Read Daniel 3:1-7. The proud, despotic king had set up a golden image on the plain of Dura (verse 1). It was a huge monument, ninety feet high and nine feet wide, and probably it was a replica of the image the king had seen in his dream in chapter 2. Everyone was commanded to be present at the dedication of the image (verses 2-5). It was a spectacular occasion, but a terrible penalty was imposed on any who refused to bow down to worship the golden image. We read in verse 12 that the three government officials refused to bow down, to follow the crowd or to renounce their God and His commands. They were determined to stand out against this evil thing and to be faithful to their Lord at all costs. It is so easy to go with the crowd and to let the herd instinct dominate us, and thus to fail the Lord, but these three men were victorious in the hour of their supreme testing. Their trust was in God, but, as is always the case, their faith was challenged.

If you trust in God you will be tempted to compromise.

Read verses 8-18. The Chaldeans reported to the king that Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego had not obeyed his command (verse 12). The king was furious and sent for them and invited them to reconsider their decision (verses 13-15). Here was the temptation to compromise. ‘Just do this one thing…Nobody will see you…Do it to please me…It won’t harm you…It will soon be over…’ – but steadfastly they refused (verses 16-18). They refused to save their lives at the expense of their conscience and to bring dishonor upon the Name of their Lord, so they defied the king. They said, “We will not…” (Verse 18). Are you loyal enough to stand out with the minority, to be one of three against three hundred thousand? Moses was faced with this temptation and he resisted it (Hebrews 11:24-27); so was Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11); so was Stephen, and he refused it and was stoned to death (Acts 7:54-60). God gives us a wonderful promise that no temptation need ever prove too strong for any of His children – look up 1 Corinthians 10:13.

If you trust in God you will confidently submit to His will.

Read verses 17-18. In spite of the dreadful alternative facing them, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego steadfastly refused to worship the golden image, because their whole trust was in God. They had confidence in: (1) the power of God. They said, “The God we serve is able…” Well, of course He is! Nothing is too hard for Him (Genesis 18:14). All things are possible to Him (Matthew 19:26). He is the God of miracles. They also had confidence in: (2) the purpose of God. They said, “But even if he does not…” In other words, ‘God can deliver us, and if it is HIS WILL He will deliver us – but He may not. It may be His will to let us suffer and die. We do not know what His will is, and we do not mind, for His will is best anyway.’ Faith is ready to trust God to fulfil His purpose, whatever that may be, and to say – Job 13:15 and Romans 14:8. The steadfast refusal of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego made the king furious, and he commanded the furnace to be heated again and again, and the three men to be cast into the fire (verses 19-23). What a terrible experience! What a wonderful experience! – But no more wonderful than the experience that we may have if we are faithful to the Lord.

If you trust in God you will never be alone.

Read verses 24-27. They were in the fire, but they were not alone, for the Lord was there with them, just as He is with His people when they suffer in His Name – look up Isaiah 43:2; Psalm 23:4 and 2 Timothy 4:16-17. The presence of the Lord with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fire was the guarantee of their protection. Even the fire could not touch them, because it was God’s will that the fire should not touch them; and in being tried and tested and cast out by these men these three were now brought into sweeter communion with their Lord. God never calls us to enter the furnace alone. He is always with us, and He blesses us in the furnace in a way that we never could be blessed had we not experienced it – look up 1 Peter 1:7. But this is not the end of the story. One reason why the Lord allows us to be tested is that by our confidence in Him in the trial, and by the manifestation of His power and glory, others may be blessed and His kingdom may be extended.

If you trust in God others will be blessed.

We see this in verses 28-30. What a testimony from a pagan king! But suppose these three had compromised, how different the whole outcome would have been! Often we are placed in a situation of difficulty where it means that if we trust God and seek His grace to glorify Him in the trial, others will be wonderfully blessed and helped by our testimony. Consider Psalm 66:10-12 as we conclude this study!

THE GLORY OF HIS PERSON

(Scripture Portion: Hebrews 1:1-14; 2:9-18)

I have carefully chosen themes which will concentrate our attention upon the Person and Work of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we approach each study let our prayer be – look up John 12:21. Because of the greatness and the majesty of the Person we are to consider, and because of the nature, scope, perfection and eternal significance of His work, it is impossible to over-emphasize the importance of this series of studies. The greatest question which can force itself upon us is Matthew 22:42 – and that question faces us now. It is the question of supreme importance, because what we think of Him will determine what we do with Him – look up Matthew 27:22, and what we do with Him will determine what He does with us – look up Revelation 20:11-15.

We begin, then, with a consideration of the unique nature of the Lord Jesus Christ. The question we ask is: Who is Jesus Christ, and what is His nature? With the Word of God in your hands, look up John 5:39; and with the Spirit of God in your heart, look up John 16:14-15; we shall seek to answer this question of questions. There are, of course, many ways of approaching the study of the Person of Christ. For instance, to study any one of the following would reveal something of the glory of His Person and the greatness of His Work:

He is glorious as the eternal, unchanging One – look up Hebrews 13:8 and Revelation 22:13.

He is glorious in the names and titles which are ascribed to Him – look up Isaiah 9:6.

He is glorious in His relationship in the Godhead – look up John 1:18 and 15:26.

He is glorious in the claims which He made for Himself – look up John 4:25-26; 5:22; 10:9 and 14:6.

He is glorious in the experience of His people – He is their Savior, Shepherd, Friend and Lord.

He is glorious in the perfection of His redeeming work – look up John 19:30 and Jude 24.

He is glorious in the place of glory which He now occupies, and ever will occupy – look up Hebrews 1:3; Jude 25 and Revelation 19:16.

But in the limited scope of this study let us ask: What is the essential and unique characteristic of the Person of our Lord Jesus Christ? It is this – He is at the same time perfectly human and absolutely divine. “He holds within Himself the two natures in perfect poise and balance, and each in full completeness.” He is very God and very man. This is a great mystery – look up 1 Timothy 3:16; but the doctrines of the perfect humanity of Christ and the absolute deity of Christ are clearly stated in the divine revelation. Let us consider these.

THE PERFECT HUMANITY OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

Two thousand years ago, He who had ever been with the Father, one with Him in essence and nature, came to earth – look up John 1:1,14, and compare Galatians 4:4 and Philippians 2:6-8. When He came here He was born just as other babies are born – look up Luke 2:4-7; He grew in wisdom and stature – look up Luke 2:40, 52; and was subject to the laws of human development in body and soul – look up Luke 2:46. As He moved among men He spoke like a man and looked like a man – look up Mark 15:34; Luke 24:32; John 4:9; John 20:15 and John 21:4-5. He was subject to the frailties of human nature (apart from sin): hunger – look up Matthew 4:2; Mark 11:12 and John 19:28; weariness – look up Mark 4:38 and John 4:6; pain – look up John 19:3 and 28-30; temptation – look up Luke 4:13; and death – look up John 19:30. But He was the perfect Man – altogether without sin: look up Luke 23:41, 47; John 8:46 and 19:4; Hebrews 4:15 and 7:26; and 1 Peter 2:21-22. Yes, He was, and is, truly Man; for although He has been down into death, He has risen again in a perfect human body – look up Matthew 28:6; Luke 24:13-34; John 20:14-16 and John 21:1-14, and He has taken His humanity up to the throne of God – look up Acts 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 2:5 and Hebrews 9:24. So we see that He is indeed ‘the man Christ Jesus.’ The scriptures declare, however, that this Man is in very truth God.

THE ABSOLUTE DEITY OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

Jesus did not become God. In the fullness of time, and in order to become our Redeemer, He became man – look up Galatians 4:4; but He always was God, one with the Father and the Spirit. See what Colossians 2:9 says of Him.

Turn again to John 1:1, and compare Matthew 1:23, and see again in Isaiah 9:6 that while the ‘child’ was born, the ‘Son’ was given. The Son ever was the Son, but at Bethlehem the Son was given in the form of a child – look up Luke 1:35. Repeatedly in the New Testament He is spoken of (by Himself and by others) as the Son of God – look up Matthew 3:17; 27:40-43; Mark 14:61-62; Luke 22:70; John 5:25; 10:36 and 11:4; and five times as ‘the only begotten Son’ – look up John 1:14, 18 and 3:16. See the wonderful description of Him in Micah 5:2, and compare also John 8:57-58 and Revelation 1:18.

At Caesarea Philippi, Peter made his great confession, which our Lord stated had been given by divine inspiration – He allowed Peter to acknowledge Him as ‘the Christ, the Son of the living God’ – look up Matthew 16:13-17.

Think of His ‘I AM’s’ in John’s Gospel; look them up – 6:35; 8:12; 10:9; 10:14; 11:25; 14:6 and 15:1. What do these mean if He is not God?

Think of His miracles – signs that attested His deity. He turned the water into wine – look up John 2:1-11; healed a son – look up John 4:46-54; made a man whole – look up John 5:1-16; fed a multitude – look up John 6:1-14; stilled a storm – look up Mark 4:35-41; gave sight to the blind – look up John 9:1-38; and raised the dead – John 11:1-46 – all of which demonstrate that He was Lord over time, distance, disease, growth, gravitation, nature’s defects and death. Now look up John 20:30-31. Do you not want to say – John 20:28? He is Creator – look up John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16; the Upholder of all things – look up Colossians 1:17; the Forgiver of sin – look up Mark 2:5-10. Surely you will agree that all this testimony to His deity is overwhelming?

THE MIRACLE OF HIS BIRTH

(Scripture Portion: Luke 1:26-38)

If Jesus is God (and He is), and if He became man (and He did), how did He become man? John 1:14 says that “the Word became flesh…” and Galatians 4:4 says that the Son of God was “born of a woman”. But His was no ordinary birth. There has never been another like it before or since, for His was a virgin birth. In this study we are to state our belief in the supernatural character of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. In some quarters the doctrine of the Virgin Birth is openly treated as a fable; but those who discard the truth of the virgin birth also, more or less, disbelieve the other great Christian doctrines. Any such denial of Christian doctrine involves the Person of Jesus Christ - His sinless life, the authority of His teaching, the wonder of His miracles, the vicarious nature of His atonement, His bodily resurrection and ascension, the personality of His Holy Spirit and the triumph of His second coming.

By the Virgin Birth we mean that when the Lord Jesus was born He had a human mother but no human father. This is very clearly stated in Matthew 1:20. God has five ways of making a human body:

Without the agency of either man or woman, as He made Adam – Genesis 2:7.

By the law of natural generation, as He made you and me.

As He made Eve – look up Genesis 2:21-22.

Through a man and a woman both past child-bearing age, as He made Isaac – look up Genesis 18:11-15 and 21:1-2.

As He ‘made’ a human body for His Son, the Lord Jesus – look up Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:20; Galatians 4:4 and Hebrews 10:5.

In view of the Person who was born of the Virgin, the manner of His birth is only what we should expect

Consider this in connection with the first study and you will have no difficulty in agreeing with this statement. When we remember who Jesus is we understand why such a birth was necessary. “The how of the birth is easily received when the Who of the birth is taken into account?” If Jesus was just a man then the Virgin Birth will seem inexplicable; but if He was (and is) God, then His virgin birth at once became necessary.

The Virgin Birth was necessary to make possible the Incarnation

It was necessary to the mysterious and wonderful union of the divine and the human, of God and man. This took place when Jesus (who was God) was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary (who was human). The Lord Jesus needed to have a real body, so He was “born of a woman” – look up Galatians 4:4; and in order to be sinless His had to be a virgin birth.

The Virgin Birth is the only explanation of His sinless life

That He was sinless we have seen – look up John 8:46; Hebrews 4:15; Hebrews 7:26 and 1 Peter 2:21-22. That He needed to be sinless in order to be the Redeemer of mankind we have also seen – look up Exodus 12:5 and John 1:29. Had He been born according to the natural process He would have inherited a sinful nature – look up John 3:6. The virgin life demanded a virgin birth, and it proved it!

The Virgin Birth is indispensable to the integrity of the Scriptures

As we shall see, the Bible states that Jesus was virgin-born. If we could possibly prove that the Bible is wrong in these statements we would have to cast the whole Bible aside as being unreliable. If we accept the prophecies relating to His coming, to the place and nature of His birth, and the historical accounts in the Gospels of that birth and of His life and redeeming work, we must accept them fully. To question one part is to question the whole.

The doctrine of the Virgin Birth is clearly stated in the Scriptures

Let us begin with the Book of Genesis. Is there any reference to the Virgin Birth? Yes – in Genesis 3:15, where we are told about the seed of the woman. Nowhere in scripture is the seed ever connected with a woman, for the simple reason that the “seed” is always resident in the male – look up and compare Genesis 12:7; 15:18; 17:8; 24:7; 26:3. (KJV)

Now turn to the Messianic Psalms – Psalms 86:16 and 116:16 – and compare Luke 1:38.

Then turn to Isaiah 7:14. What a clear prophecy of the Virgin Birth!

Notice also Jeremiah 31:22.

Now look up Matthew chapter 1, verses 16, 18,19,20,22 and 23. Notice that in Matthew 1:2-16 we read that “So-and-so was the father of So-and-so…” but in verse 16 it does not say, “Joseph was the father of Jesus…” Then notice in verse 17 that there are mentioned three groups of fourteen generations. But in the last group of ‘fourteen’ you will find only thirteen names. The fourteenth is the Holy Spirit, through whose agency the Lord Jesus was conceived.

In the Gospel of Luke we find that two supernatural births are announced – that of John the Baptist, announced by the angel to Zachariah (the father), and that of the Lord Jesus, announced by the angel to Mary (the mother). Why this change? It was because Jesus had no human father. Notice also that Mary (the mother) sang the Magnificent in anticipation of the Savior’s birth – look up Luke 1:46-55; but Zachariah (the father) sang the Benedictus when John was born – look up Luke 1:67-79. Read Luke chapter 1, and specially notice verses 26-38; and look up Luke 2:33 and 2:48-49 (“your father and I…my Father…”); and Luke 3:23!

While the Apostle Paul makes no direct references to the Virgin Birth, nothing in his letters questions or casts any doubt upon this vital Christian doctrine – look up Romans 5:12; Romans 8:3 and Philippians 2:7.

We believe in the Virgin Birth because of the practical bearing of this doctrine upon the matter of our salvation

The whole principle of the Virgin Birth, of the Incarnation, of divine and human blending in one Personality, is involved in the experience of conversion, or the new birth. The Lord Jesus was “born to give us second birth”, and every real Christian is one in whom Christ has been born – look up and compare Luke 1:34-35 with John 3:6. Have you been born again – John 3:3?

THE MEANING OF HIS BAPTISM

(Scripture Portion: Mark 1:1-11)

I did not know what it meant about what was there in life but we are being told that it is important to be born again .Lets check.

In the life of our Lord Jesus Christ there were several great landmarks. The first was His birth at Bethlehem – look up Luke 2:1-7; the next was when He was baptized in the River Jordan by John the Baptist. In this study we are to consider the manner and the significance of His baptism. First we need to read Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-23 and John 1:29-34.

We wonder what happened during those ‘hidden years’ at Nazareth! We know that the perfect and holy babe who was born in Bethlehem grew into childhood and then into manhood – look up Luke 2:40 and 52; we cannot understand the full significance of these words, but we know that He “grew” and experienced all that we experience (apart from sin) in babyhood, childhood and manhood. Notice that Luke 2:40 and 52 tell us that He grew: (1) mentally – “in wisdom…” (2) Physically – “in stature…” (3) Spiritually – “in favor with God…” and (4) socially – “in favor with man…” How wonderful that the Eternal Son of God should voluntarily become a man and subject Himself to all the limitations of a human body! Why? – In order that we might become sons of God and heirs of God – look up Galatians 4:4-7.

As we have noticed, the baptism of Jesus is in all four Gospels, and this fact emphasizes the importance of this step in the Savior’s earthly life. John the Baptist was our Lord’s forerunner, who had been sent by God to “prepare the way of the Lord”. John preached and baptized his converts in the River Jordan, and one day the Lord Jesus came to be baptized – look up Matthew 3:13-15. What a great moment this was for John! He baptized Jesus, and three wonderful things happened – look up Matthew 3:16-17. What was (and is) the meaning, the significance of His baptism? Let us notice the following:

At His baptism the Lord Jesus was declared by the highest authority to be the Second Person of the Trinity, God’s Beloved Son

God Himself gave testimony to the absolute deity of the Lord Jesus – look up Matthew 3:17, and compare Matthew 17:5 and John 12:28. Long before, the Prophet Isaiah had written – look up Isaiah 9:6; and at the annunciation to Mary, the Angel had said – look up Luke 1:35. After His baptism, John said – look up John 1:34. Notice also that the Trinity is revealed in this baptismal scene – the Son is being baptized, the Spirit is descending as a dove, and the Father is speaking from the Glory! How the greatness of our Lord’s Person shines out as we see Him in Jordan’s waters!

At His baptism the Lord Jesus demonstrated the truth of that saying of His, “I am gentle and humble in heart…” (Matthew 11:29)

He was God’s beloved Son, yet He voluntarily submitted to this ordinance of baptism. He asked John to baptize Him – look up Matthew 3:13 and 15. Now read very carefully Matthew 20:27-28; Philippians 2:5-8 and 1 Peter 3:4. Do we possess this quality of meekness, of humility? – look up 1 Peter 5:5. One of the most impressive passages in the Gospels is John 13:1-17.

At His baptism the Lord Jesus signified His willingness and His intention to be the sin-bearer and Savior of His people

This was His public inauguration to the great and essential work He had come to do, His redeeming work. In one sense He certainly did not need to be baptized, for He had no sins to repent of or to confess, but in order that He might identify Himself with sinful man and lay His spotless life at the disposal of the Father for the purposes of redemption, He submitted to this rite – look up John 1:29 and Matthew 20:28.

At His baptism the Lord Jesus portrayed the manner in which His redemptive work was to be accomplished

Think of it! He was baptized, immersed. (1) The Greek word signifies this.

(2) Matthew 3:16 and Mark 1:9-10 surely imply immersion (notice, “out of the water…” “In – not ‘at’ or ‘by’ – Jordan”). (3) Look up John 3:23. (4) Compare Romans 6:4. Baptism is therefore a picture of death, burial and resurrection. Now compare Paul’s description of the Gospel – look up 1 Corinthians 15:1-4.

At His baptism the Lord Jesus, as the Son of Man, was definitely anointed with the Holy Spirit for His earthly ministry

Read Luke 3:21-22, and then compare Luke 4:18 and Acts 10:38. But what about ourselves? Before we are fitted for service we must have the same empowering – look up and compare Luke 11:13; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:4 and Ephesians 5:18. If the Lord Jesus needed this holy anointing before He began His public ministry, how much more do we!

At His baptism the Lord Jesus left us an example, that we should follow His steps (1 Peter 2:21)

He was baptized in order “to fulfil all righteousness”; or, in order to do that which was right and pleasing in God’s eyes, and His word to us is, “Follow Me!” – Look up John 21:22 and compare Matthew 28:19 and Mark 16:15-16. Trace out the references to believers being baptized in the Book of Acts, and notice that baptism is not a denominational matter but a New Testament command – look up John 14:15. Here are the references: Acts 2:37-41; Acts 8:12; Acts 8:36-39; Acts 9:17-18; Acts 10:44-48; Acts 16:14-15; Acts 16:30-34; Acts 18:8; Acts 19:1-7.

At His baptism the Lord Jesus taught us the most important and the deepest lesson of all

That lesson is this: the full blessing of God can only be experienced when we are ready and willing to obey Him absolutely – look up Matthew 3:17; and compare Acts 9:6 and John 2:5

THE REALITY OF HIS TEMPTATION

(Scripture Portion: Matthew 4:1-11)

Lord’s baptism marked the commencement of His public ministry, and it is important to notice that after His baptism, “at once the Spirit sent him into the desert” to be tempted of the Devil – look up Mark 1:12. “After the approval of Heaven comes the assault of Hell; after the dove, the Devil.” This subject of our Lord’s temptation is difficult for us to understand, but we know that it took place for a purpose; and though we cannot expect to fathom the deep mystery of these 40 days which He spent in the wilderness, we can reverently and profitably study the inspired accounts of the event.

Our Lord entered the conflict under the constraint and leading of the Holy Spirit

It is important to notice this – look up Matthew 4:1; Mark 1:12 and Luke 4:1-2. It was not at the instigation of the Devil that our Lord was led into the desert to be tempted, but on His own initiative. Satan was not challenging Christ; Christ was challenging Satan. Our Lord was dragging the Evil One out into the open in order to expose him and defeat him – look up Matthew 12:29. In doing so He, as the servant of Jehovah, was to be tested. Oswald Chambers has said:

‘Temptation is the testing by an alien power of the possessions held by a personality. Jesus held within His unique personality His own unspotted sanctity and the fact that He was to be the King of men and the Savior of the world, and Satan was the alien power that came to test Him on these lines!’

In the desert our Lord began to fulfil the Genesis 3:15 prophecy which will one day receive complete fulfilment according to Revelation 20:10 and 14.

The time of our Lord’s temptation is significant

This, of course, was not the first or the last time that He was tempted. “To think of the tempting of Jesus as beginning and being exhausted in that special season in the desert is to misunderstand utterly the years at Nazareth, and the full meaning of the desert experience.” During the 30 silent years He had triumphed over all the temptations incidental to private life; now, He was to triumph over the temptations relative to His public ministry and redeeming work. Then again, notice that the three special temptations recorded in the Gospels only came at the end of forty days of testing. Concerning the time factor, notice that His time of special temptation came: (1) immediately after His baptism. Our fiercest temptations come after our greatest times of blessing. (2) When He was alone. It is frequently the same with us! (3) When He was hungry, that is, physically weakened. Satan takes advantage of our weak moments, our tiredness, and our sickness

It was a conflict with a real and powerful Enemy

The Devil! Yes, a real, highly intelligent and powerful personality! To deny he exists is to deny the Bible. As created by God, the Devil was an angelic being of great power and intelligence – look up Ezekiel 28:12-19 and Isaiah 14:12-14; but through pride he fell, and he became God’s greatest enemy – look up and compare Luke 10:18; John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 11:14; 2 Peter 2:4 and Jude 6. To deny the personality of Satan is to imply that all the wickedness, all the vileness, all the dreadful corruption that have characterized the human race have come from men’s own hearts, from within. In the final analysis, this makes God the author of sin! To say that Jesus did not meet a personal Devil in the desert is also to imply that He was tempted by His own evil thoughts, by the wickedness of His own heart. This would be blasphemy – look up John 14:30.

The Enemy chose three lines of attack

Read Luke 4:1-13, and carefully note these. There are only three ways in which anyone can be tempted, and these are indicated in 1 John 2:16. Eve was tempted in these three ways (and capitulated in each case – look up Genesis 3:1-7), and so was our Lord. The first temptation was an appeal to “the lust of the flesh” – look up Luke 4:2-3; the second was an appeal to “the lust of the eyes” – look up Luke 4:5-7; and the third was an appeal to pride – “the pride of life” – look up Luke 4:9-11. The first temptation was fleshly, the second was aesthetic, and the third was an intellectual temptation. The threefold attack of Satan was on the place of the physical, mental and spiritual. In each case the temptation was to mistrust God.

The weapon with which our Lord silenced and overcame the Enemy was the Word of God

Notice in Luke 4:4, 8 and 12 – “It is written…” His immediate use of scripture shows us how familiar He was with the scriptures, and also that He fully accepted the authority of the Old Testament scriptures. Do you know the secret of victory in temptation? – read Ephesians 6:10-17, and particularly notice verses 16 and 17. There is no other way of victory over our great adversary.

The purpose of the temptation was not to see if our Lord would or could sin, but to prove that He was the Sinless One

This is important. By resisting temptation at every point He openly demonstrated the fact that He, “the last Adam” – look up 1 Corinthians 15:45 – was not only innocent (like “the first Adam” before the fall), but He was sinless, holy. In the desert He repulsed the Devil and emerged victorious, and “when the devil had finished all this temptation…Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit” – look up Luke 4:13-14.

The value of our Lord’s temptation for ourselves

Through Him, our victorious Lord who has conquered Satan, we may be “more than conquerors” – look up Romans 8:37. Now meditate upon and rejoice in the following: 1 Corinthians 10:13; Hebrews 2:17-18 and Hebrews 4:14-16.

THE SPLENDOUR OF HIS TRANSFIGURATION

(Matthew 17:1-9)

Perhaps one reason why the subject of the transfiguration of our Lord has been so neglected is the fact that we feel that there is something unpractical, or even mystical, about the event. We do not doubt for a moment that it took place exactly as recorded by the three Evangelists, and we stand in awe as we gaze upon “the sacred mountain” – look up 2 Peter 1:18; but are there any practical lessons in this event in our Lord’s life for us? Please be sure to read the accounts in the three Gospels – Matthew 17:1-9; Mark 9:2-10 and Luke 9:28-36; and notice the fact that the transfiguration marked a division in the ministry of our Lord. So far this had been, to a certain extent, popular and public, but now it was to become private until He reached Jerusalem and died upon the Cross. But for whose benefit did this event take place?

Moses and Elijah appeared on the scene and conversed with our Lord, but surely He was not transfigured for their benefit!

Some have suggested that this experience on the mount took place in order to strengthen our Lord for the great redemptive task which He would so soon undertake, and that this experience was given in order to confirm Him in His intention to be the Sin-bearer of His people. If there is any truth in this suggestion it is certainly not the primary reason for the transfiguration.

Our Lord took Peter, James and John on to the mount and “was transfigured before them” – look up Matthew 17:1-2. Surely it was primarily for their benefit that He was transfigured – and for ours too?

What lessons are there for us to learn on “the sacred mountain”? Let us join Peter, James and John in imagination – and what do we see?

We see what a glorious Person our Lord Jesus Christ is

Read Matthew 17:2; Mark 9:3 and Luke 9:29. What actually happened? They saw the Lord Jesus in all the splendor of His own perfect character. The majesty of His own inherent glory shone forth upon His countenance and through the very garments He wore. Moses and Stephen reflected the glory of the Lord – look up Exodus 34:29 and Acts 6:15; but this was different. This was not reflected glory resting upon Him; it was His own inherent glory shining forth from Him. This is the vision we need – a vision of the splendor and majesty of the One who is the brightness of His Father’s glory and “the exact representation of his being” – look up Hebrews 1:3. He is the “altogether lovely” One – look up Song of Solomon 5:16! Have you found Him to be so?

We see that our Lord Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God and that He is the Pre-eminent One

While they were on the mount, Moses and Elijah appeared before them – look up Matthew 17:3. Impetuous Peter suggested making three shelters, so that they could all stay on the mount – look up Matthew 17:4-5. What happened? Immediately a cloud overshadowed them – look up Matthew 17:5-8; and the voice of the Father said: “This is my Son…listen to him!” Then what happened? “They saw no-one except Jesus.” God will never allow anyone to be placed on the same level as His Son. Jesus stands alone – look up Luke 9:36; and see Philippians 2:9-11 and Colossians 1:18.

Listen to the conversation between Moses, Elijah and Jesus!

What are they talking about? Luke 9:30-31 tells us – it was Calvary! Moses (and Elijah) spoke of His exodus (as the word really is). That is very significant. Yes, the ‘exodus’ in Egypt was but a prelude and a type of this great ‘exodus’ which Jesus was to accomplish at Jerusalem. What a mighty deliverance was wrought by Him there! But this conversation tells us that the one great theme of the ages is the Cross of Calvary and the Christ of the Cross. The death of the Lord Jesus is the recurring theme in Scripture.

Is the death of our Savior the constant theme of our conversation and of our preaching? – Look up Luke 24:13-27 and Acts 8:27-35.

The sacrifices of the Mosaic economy and the hopes aroused by the prophets all found their fulfilment in the Lord Jesus

Yes, Moses represented the sacrifices and types of the old Jewish economy. Elijah represented the prophets. All the Mosaic types and the prophetic ministries of the old dispensation pointed forward to the Lord Jesus. It is as though Moses said to the Lord Jesus, “When we slew the lamb…we thought of you”; and as though Elijah said, “When we prophesied, we did so in anticipation of your coming”.

Our saved loved ones are safe in God’s keeping and are happy, conscious and recognizable

Moses and Elijah were still alive – and Peter, James and John recognized them! Identity of personality is therefore maintained in Heaven. We shall see and recognize our departed loved ones who die in the Lord. We shall know them. The grave is not the end; beyond the valley lies the glorious palace of the King.

Here on the Mount is a foretaste of our Lord’s coming again, of the rapture of the saints, and of His glory

Moses and Elijah are representative men. Moses had died 1500 years before and had been buried by God – look up Deuteronomy 34:5-6. Elijah had not died at all, but had been translated – look up 2 Kings 2:11. When the Lord Jesus returns there will be two classes of saints for whom He will come – “the dead in Christ” and “we who are still alive” – look up 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18, and compare 1 Corinthians 15:51-57.

We too may be transfigured now, and we certainly shall be transfigured then!

2 Corinthians 3:18 tells us the secret of our transformation now; and 1 John 3:2 assures us of the fact of our glorious transformation then!

THE AUTHORITY OF HIS TEACHING

(Matthew 7:24-29; John 8:38; 12:47-50)

There is no power whose attraction is greater than an authoritative word. Of the Lord Jesus it was said, “The crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law”. This is the key verse of the present study. When we consider the large amount of space given in the Gospels to the recorded sayings and teachings of our Lord, it makes it imperative that we study the characteristics and the scope of His teaching. The Lord Jesus Christ is the Teacher supreme! Unlike every other teacher, not only does His teaching still live, but He (the Teacher) lives. He is the incarnation of the truth He came to teach. All that He ever taught is perfectly summed up in Him. He not only spoke the truth, not only was all His teaching true, but He is the Truth – look up John 14:6. His words are the expression of Himself. Our first need is to know the Lord as our Savior, and therefore His first word to us is, “Come to me…” (Matthew 11:28); but having come to Him and trusted Him as our Savior, our second need is to know Him as our teacher. His word to us therefore is also, “Learn from Me…” (Matthew 11:29). Now notice the following characteristics of our Lord’s teaching:

The AUTHORITY with which He spoke. In Mark 1:22 our Lord’s teaching is contrasted with that of the scribes, who had no message, preached about trivialities and never spoke with any conviction. Jesus spoke as an Authority! This is the way in which we are to teach and preach Him - with authority.

He spoke with BOLDNESS. He was not afraid of anyone – look up Matthew 23:27 and compare John 7:26. We need this boldness in our preaching today, the boldness the apostles had – look up Acts 4:13.

How GRACIOUS His words were! He was “full of grace and truth”, as we learn from John 1:14, 17, and all His words were the expression of Himself – look up Luke 4:22. No wonder the people came to listen to such gracious words.

The SIMPLICITY of His teaching. It was profound, and yet – look up Mark 12:37. It must have been simple and easy to understand in order to attract the common people. Frequently He taught by parables, illustrating great and sublime truths with very ordinary things – seed, silver etc. Is our preaching simple, or is it above the heads of the people?

He was the UNIQUE Teacher. He was unique not only in what He taught but in the way He did it – look up John 7:46. We too have a unique message – look up Romans 1:16, and compare Acts 4:12.

His words were DIVINE and life-giving. Inherent in His words were life and power – look up Luke 4:32 and compare John 6:63; see life in His words in the following: Matthew 8:26; Mark 1:40-42; Mark 5:41-42; Luke 7:14-15; John 5:8-9 – and compare John 8:31-32 and John 15:3.

The PERMANENCY of His words. The words of other great teachers have long been forgotten; His words will abide for ever – Matthew 24:35; 1 Peter 1:24-25.

It is not possible, within the compass of this study, to consider the substance and the scope of our Lord’s teaching. Indeed, here is a life-long course of study for each one of us. Think of the variety of themes upon which He spoke (and speaks) with authority. Upon every subject He is the Authority, for there is no other – look up 1 Corinthians 1:24; Colossians 2:3. It is important to remember that the authority with which our Lord taught in the days of His earthly ministry is the authority with which He teaches us today, through His Word (the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments). In this connection notice these three vital truths:

The Lord Jesus taught with authority because He only taught those things He received from the Father

Jesus is God, but during His earthly life He was dependent upon the Father for all that He did and all that He said – look up and compare John 8:26,28 and 38; John 12:48-50 and John 14:24. He claimed that all His teaching was not from Himself, but that both what He should say (the matter), and what He should speak (the words), were given Him of the Father. Where else is there such an Authority?

The Lord Jesus taught the absolute authority of the Old Testament Scriptures

This is tremendously important in view of the fact that many today who profess to be His followers deny the authority of the Old Testament. The scriptures which Jesus had were exactly the same as the Old Testament in our Bible; all are agreed about this. He regarded the Old Testament scriptures as authentic in their entirety.

For example, He endorsed the opening chapters of Genesis – look up Matthew 24:37-39; Mark 10:6-7 and Luke 11:51. Also refer to Matthew 15:4; Matthew 19:18; Luke 24:27 and John 8:56-58; and if you want a few more confirming scriptures turn to and compare 1 Samuel 21:6 with Matthew 12:3-4. If that is not enough, compare 1 Kings 17:9 with Luke 4:26; and 2 Kings 5:1 with Luke 4:27. Our Lord quoted from Isaiah 61:1; Jeremiah 7:11; Daniel 11:31; Hosea 6:6; Jonah 1:17; Zechariah 13:7; and Malachi 3:1 etc. He honored the whole of the Scriptures as the authoritative oracles of God – look up Luke 24:27. He constantly referred to and quoted from the scriptures saying, “This scripture must be fulfilled…” thereby attesting their absolute authority – look up and compare Mark 14:49; John 13:18; John 17:12.

Our Lord never questioned the accuracy of any part of the Old Testament. How solemn for anyone to do so today! – Look up Revelation 22:18-19.

The Lord Jesus taught the authority of the New Testament Scriptures

Before our Lord died, He made provision for the writing of the New Testament by promising that the Holy Spirit, who had inspired the writers of the Old Testament scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16 and 2 Peter 1:21), would also inspire the writers of the New Testament scriptures – John 14:26; John 16:7 and John 16:12-13, and compare 1 Corinthians 2:13. We learn from this study that the Lord is our Teacher. He is the living Word – (John 1:1); and He speaks with authority through the written Word – (Psalm 119:160)

THE MESSAGE OF HIS MIRACLES

(Matthew 11:1-6)

There are two special reasons why it is important term of the Person and Work of our Lord that time should be given to the miracles which He performed. The first reason is that He so frequently worked miracles; and the second reason is that the four Evangelists – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John – gave such a large amount of space in giving detailed accounts of these miracles. The writers are emphatic that He did perform miracles, and by a comparison of the four Gospels it appears that we have the authentic record of at least thirty-three different specific miracles. How true it is that ‘the miracles are the warp and woof of the gospel’! We must remember, however, that the subject of miracles has always given rise to discussion and argument. There are many today who tell us that they cannot accept the miraculous element in our Christian Faith. Often the miracles are ‘explained away’, and we are told that they are only parabolic of our Lord’s power to change the attitude of men to situations. But if Christianity is not supernatural it is not anything very worthwhile at all, except as a very good system of ethics with no dynamic; a set of commands with no divine enabling; a pattern with no power; and an example with no energy. If the Christian life is not a supernatural life it is a failure, because it is not a new life. The seriousness of denying the miracles, however, lies in the fact that if we cannot rely upon the biblical accounts the very foundation of our Faith has gone – look up Psalm 11:3. If there are errors in the scriptures mixed up with truth, how can we discern or determine which things are true and which things are untrue? The denial of the miraculous is heresy and those who deny the miraculous are enemies of the gospel who preach and teach “a different gospel” – look up Galatians 1:6-7. They are indeed “blind leaders of the blind”, caught up with the inadequacies of human philosophy and “cleverly invented stories” – look up Matthew 15:14 and 2 Peter 1:16. What, then, is a miracle?

A miracle, in the Bible sense of the word, is an extraordinary work of God transcending the ordinary powers of nature, wrought in connection with the ends of revelation…’ i.e., wrought in order to reveal God to man and to achieve the purposes of God.

Many miracles are recorded in the Old Testament, and in the New Testament we read of the apostles performing miracles. It is also true to say that miracles happen today. It is a simple matter for God to set aside or to transcend the laws of nature if it suits His purpose to do so. After all, He is Lord of nature. The greatest miracle of all is the Person of Christ, and anyone who believes on Him and accepts Him in all the glory and dignity of His Person will have no difficulty in accepting the miraculous element in His life and ministry. ‘When we accept Him, miracles at once become credible’. Indeed, when we remember who He is, ‘the miraculous works in His life seem only becoming and natural’. What, then, is the message of His miracles? What do they tell us?

The miracles were fulfilments of prophecy

If you read Matthew 8:16-17 and compare Isaiah 53:4, you will see at once that this is made clear. The great value of this observation is that just as Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled literally in the ministry of our Lord, and just as every other fulfilled prophecy has been fulfilled literally, so every unfulfilled prophecy will be fulfilled literally. When Jesus sent a message back to John the Baptist, was He not saying to him, “Are not these things a fulfilment of prophecy, and therefore an indication that I am the Messiah?” – Look up Matthew 11:2-6.

The miracles were proof of His power, His lordship and His deity

The fact that He performed miracles did not prove that He was the Son of God or that He had come to earth on a divine mission. Satan can perform miracles; he does it today through the promoters of false systems of religion, and he will do it on a far larger scale before long – look up and compare Matthew 24:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:9 and Revelation 13:3. But when we look at our Savior and observe His manner and His humility, and when we listen to His words and then see His miracles, we have to say with Nicodemus – John 3:2! The miracles of our Lord show forth who He is – look up John 2:11; and they are recorded that we may know who He is and that we may believe on Him – look up John 20:30-31. Did not our Lord also have this in mind in His reply to John the Baptist? – look up Matthew 11:2-6 again, and compare Matthew 8:27.

The miracles were demonstrations of His great heart of compassion

Suppose we ask the question: ‘What is the Lord Jesus like?’ We can answer this by quoting some of His sayings. For example, look up Matthew 11:28-30, which surely tells us that He has a heart of love and tender compassion. But what more convincing proof of His love and compassion could we find than the fact of His miracles? He cleansed the leper (Mark 1:40-45); He raised the dead (John 11:43-44). How wonderful He must be then! Yes, He is!

The miracles were illustrations of His saving work

Every miracle was a parable. When we see Him cleansing the leper we are reminded that He can cleanse the sinner from all sin – look up and compare Matthew 8:2-3 and 1 John 1:7; when He raised the dead we are reminded that He gives everlasting life to all who trust in Him – look up and compare Luke 8:49-56; Ephesians 2:1 and 1 John 5:11-12; when He stilled the storm and spoke to His disciples we are reminded that He can give peace to troubled souls – look up and compare Mark 4:35-41 and Philippians 4:7. All that He did in the bodies of suffering humanity shows what He is able to do in men’s souls.

The miracles were proof of His spoken word and of His promises

Our Savior made some tremendous claims. For example, look up John 6:35; John 8:12 and John 11:25. Anyone could make these claims, but the difference is that having made them He proved that He was indeed all that He claimed to be – notice this as you look up John 6:5-14; John 9:1-41 and John 11:1-45.

Our Lord’s miracles assure us that He is our Sovereign Lord and our Savior.

Chapter 3 THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HIS DEATH

(Scripture Portion: John 19:16-37)

I don’t know what you are thinking about loving, born again, saved person is the most precious of all themes – the death of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; and we are to pay particular attention to the unique nature and the special significance of His death. That He died is an historic fact; but there are many views, ideas, interpretations and theories as to why He died, and yet how wonderfully explicit the scriptures are! We cannot pretend to comprehend fully the deep significance of the death of the Lord Jesus upon Calvary’s cross, but we can believe that He died for us and we can rejoice in the blessings which are ours by virtue of that unique and saving death.

This is deep theology that the lord God gave me not because am good but his grace is sufficient and yet it is so simple and clear that even a child can understand the fact that our Lord Jesus Christ died and shed His precious blood to save us all. Look up and prayerfully study the following references:

(1) Isaiah 53:5-6. (6) 1 Corinthians 15:3.

(2) John 1:29. (7) 2 Corinthians 5:21.

(3) John 3:14. (8) Galatians 3:13.

(4) John 10:18. (9) Hebrews 9:26.

(5) Romans 5:6, 10 (10) 1 Peter 3:18.

These scriptures (and many others) summaries the teaching of the Word of God concerning the death of the Lord Jesus; and it is clear from these references that His death was unique and that it was deeply significant. Now notice the following:

The death of the Lord Jesus was: (1) Predetermined in eternity – look up Acts 4:26-28; 1 Peter 1:19-20 and Revelation 13:8. (2) Predicted in the Old Testament – look up Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 53; Luke 24:25-27 and Acts 10:43. (3) Pictured in the types – look up Genesis 22 and Exodus 12. (4) Prominent in the Gospels – look up Matthew 27:45-50; Mark 15:33-41; Luke 23:44-49 and John 19:30-37. (5) Predominant in the Epistles – look up Romans 5:6; 1 Corinthians 1:23; Galatians 1:4; Hebrews 9:26 and 1 Peter 2:21-24. (6) The Principal Theme in Heaven – look up Revelation 1:5-7 and Revelation 5:6-12. (7) The Permanent Theme-song of the ages – look up Revelation 5:9-12.

But let us ask the all-important question: Why did the Lord Jesus die? This must be answered negatively and positively.

Negatively:

He did not die a suicide’s death – look up Isaiah 53:8.

He did not die of old age, accident or disease – look up John 10:18.

He did not die as a political hero – look up Luke 24:21.

He did not die simply as an example – look up John 15:13.

He did not die simply as a martyr – look up Acts 7:54-60.

He did not die simply to show God’s love – look up Romans 5:8.

He did not die because He was a criminal – look up Luke 23:4.

Positively:

Here are five very important truths in connection with our Savior’s death:

The Lord Jesus came into the world to die

His death was a necessity (Hebrews 9:22). Moreover, He knew He had come to die (Matthew 16:21; Matthew 17:12; Luke 9:51; John 3:14 and John 10:11). These scriptures make this quite clear. He was not, as has been blasphemously suggested, ‘surprised and disappointed when He found He must die!’ It was planned in eternity past that He should come into the world to die for us – look up Revelation 13:8 again!

The Lord Jesus died willingly, voluntarily

As the sinless One, there was no cause of death in Himself. See what John 10:18 and Matthew 26:53 say. See also Psalm 40:8; Mark 14:41; Luke 22:53; John 7:30 and John 8:20. He voluntarily laid down His life for us because it was the will of His Father that He should do so and because He loved us so much!

The Lord Jesus died as a sacrifice for sin, to put away sin

How clear the scriptures are! Look up and meditate upon Isaiah 53:5-6; John 1:29; 1 Corinthians 15:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 9:26 and 1 Peter 2:24. Why did He die? He died to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.

The Lord Jesus died as our Substitute, bearing our penalty

Yes, “we believe it was for us He hung and suffered there”. He died instead of us, in our place, and He bore the punishment which was due to us – look up Isaiah 53:5; John 10:11 and 1 Peter 3:18. Thus we see why God has ‘not dealt with us after our sins’ (Psalm 103:10). He has fully, finally and justly dealt with our sin (and our sins) in the Person and through the sacrificial death of His Son.

So the innocent victim took the place of the guilty sinner and bore away his sin in His body on the tree (1 Peter 2:24). It is by believing this great fact – look up Acts 16:30-31; and accepting this loving Savior – look up John 1:12; that I am saved and able to say, ‘He loved me, and gave Himself for me’ – look up Galatians 2:20.

The Death of the Lord Jesus was victorious

At Calvary He provided salvation for all mankind – look up John 3:16 and 1 John 2:2. His death is sufficient for all, but it is efficient only for those who believe. His death was victorious in that He rose again, and thereby demonstrated that all the claims of divine justice had been met by His death and that salvation had been procured for all who would believe – look up John 9:35.

Do you believe? Can you say, ‘It is enough that Jesus died, and that he died for me’

THE TRIUMPH OF HIS RESURRECTION

(Scripture Portion: 1 Corinthians Chapter 15)

One of the most wonderful chapters in the Bible is 1 Corinthians chapter 15. It is the great Resurrection chapter, and in the opening Paul plainly declares the gospel – look up verses 1-4. Here is the ‘good news’! The Lord Jesus “died for our sins…was buried, and…raised”. Deeply significant as was the Savior’s death, had He not risen from the tomb His death would have meant very little to us. The resurrection of the Lord Jesus was unique. Others have died and God raised them to life again; but they have died again sooner or later – look up 2 Kings 4:32-35; 2 Kings 13:21; Matthew 9:25; Luke 7:12-15; John 11:43-44 and Acts 9:36-41. Jesus died, but “he was raised on the third day…” in the power of an endless life – look up 1 Corinthians 15:4 and Revelation 1:18.

The resurrection of the Lord Jesus was a literal, bodily resurrection. His body was hung upon the cross, and after He voluntarily “gave up his spirit”, they took His body down from the cross, and Joseph and Nicodemus laid that body in the garden tomb, a body of flesh and bones (Luke 24:39); a body that could be fed and handled (John 20:27 and Acts 10:41); and yet it was a body that obeyed other laws – look up John 20:14, 15, 19. It is foolish to speak of His spiritual resurrection: His ‘spirit’ did not die, and therefore did not rise – compare Luke 24:36-43; John 19:33-34 and John 20:27.

Let us consider evidence that Jesus Christ really did rise again from the dead.

There is the word of the Lord Jesus Himself

Before He died, Jesus said that on the third day after His death He would rise again – look up Matthew 12:39-40; Matthew 16:21 and John 2:18-22; and after His resurrection He declared that He had risen from the dead – look up John 20:19-29 and Revelation 1:18. If, in fact, He did not rise, then He was a deceiver and a liar. To disbelieve the bodily resurrection of Christ is to reject His own testimony. On the other hand, if He is the Son of God (and we believe and know that He is!), we know that He rose again because we have His own word for it – look up 1 John 5:9-10.

There is the historic account in the four Gospels

In spite of the fact that every attempt has been made to discredit the accuracy of these records, no-one has ever succeeded! In the Gospels we have four independent accounts of the resurrection, written without collaboration on the part of the writers, and these four eye-witness accounts manifest a wonderful harmony. It is easy to agree that the resurrection of the Lord Jesus is ‘the best attested fact of history’ when one reads the historical account of the resurrection in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. See (4) for some of the references.

There is the significance of the empty tomb

In the Gospels there is no indication that anyone questioned the fact that the tomb really was empty. How did it become empty?

The disciples removed the body? Why should they? How did they get past the soldiers? Were they all deceivers?

Joseph removed the body? Why – and where? Was he also a deceiver – look up Mark 15:43.

The Jews removed the body? Had they done so they would have been the first to say so?

The Roman soldiers removed the body? Why should they risk their lives by doing so?

He did not really die? He only lapsed into unconsciousness? This is another of the unreasonable and stupid explanations given by infidels, but the truth is – He rose again!

There is the evidence of those who saw Him, touched Him, ate with Him and spoke with Him

There were at least fourteen groups or persons who saw Him alive after His death. Look up and compare the following references:

John 20:14-18. (8) 1 Corinthians 15:6.

Matthew 28:8-10. (9) 1 Corinthians 15:7.

Luke 24:34; 1 Corinthians 15:5. (10) Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:14-20;

(4) Luke 24:13-31. Luke 24:33-53; Acts 1:3-12.

(5) Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-24 (11) Acts 9:3-6; 1 Corinthians 15:8.

(6) John 20:24-29. (12) Acts 22:17-21; Acts 23:11.

(7) John 21:1-23. (13) Acts 7:55.

(14) Revelation 1:18.

Some have tried to make out that the disciples did not really see the Lord Jesus and speak with Him – they only imagined they saw Him! What a foolish suggestion this is!

There is the bold and certain testimony of the Apostles

Before His death these men had not grasped the fact that He would rise again, and when He was arrested and later crucified they were timid, cowardly and full of fear (Matthew 26:56 and John 20:19); but after His resurrection they became bold and courageous (Acts 4:13); and the only message that they had to proclaim was that “this Jesus has God raised up…” – look up Acts 1:21-22; Acts 2:36; Acts 3:15; Acts 4:2 and 33; Acts 17:18; Acts 23:6; Romans 10:9 and Philippians 3:8-10. Rather than deny their risen Lord they were willing to be persecuted, imprisoned and even martyred -–look up Acts 5:41; Acts 7:54-60 and Acts 12:2.

There is the existence of the Church and the Lord’s Day

These two permanent ‘institutions’ both testify to the reality of the resurrection. Look up Acts 2:47…it is still going on! See also Acts 20:7.

The whole scheme of Redemption necessitated the Resurrection

The mighty work that He accomplished when He died for us could only be accomplished in us if He rose again; only thus could the salvation He made possible become actual and experimental.

In concluding this study, meditate upon Romans 10:9 and Hebrews 7:25.

THE NECESSITY OF HIS ASCENSION

(Scripture Portion: Acts 1:1-9)

There are three main scriptures which give us the historical record of the ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ. These are Mark 16:19; Luke 24:51 and Acts 1:9; and it is clear from these statements that our Savior, who was crucified, who died and was buried and who rose again – ascended! This He did forty days after He rose again from the dead. We are apt to neglect the doctrine of the ascension of our Lord. We give far too little attention to this epoch in His earthly life than we do, for instance, to His birth, temptation, baptism, transfiguration, miracles and death. Yet it is true to say that all these earlier events in the life of our Lord would lose their significance without the fact of His ascension.

Every real Christian is a living proof of an ascended Lord! We are saved by an ascended Lord (Hebrews 7:25); we are kept, moment by moment, by an ascended Lord (Jude 24); we live in constant fellowship with an ascended Lord (1 John 1:3); we are represented before the Father by our Great Advocate, an ascended Lord (1 John 2:1); and the fact that our ascended Lord is with the Father is the guarantee of our life (John 14:19-20). How important the truth and the reality of His ascension are!

This triumphant event in the life and ministry of our Lord was not without previous intimations, and it will help in studying this theme to note that the ascension of our Lord was:

Represented in the Types of the Old Testament. Just as the High Priest entered into the ‘holiest of all’ with the blood of atonement, so our Lord has entered into the ‘holy place’ for us – look up Hebrews 9:11-12.

Declared by Old Testament Prophecy. Look up Psalm 68:18 and Ephesians 4:8-10.

Anticipated by our Lord Himself. He anticipated His ascension in three ways: in Prayer (John 17:11-13); in Parable (Luke 19:11-27), and especially notice verse 12; and in Promise (John 7:33; John 14:12; John 14:28; John 16:5; John 16:9-10 and John 20:17).

Recorded in History. His birth, His life and His death are recorded in history, and so is His ascension. Each historic fact is necessary to the integrity of the whole record.

Confirmed by the Angels. Just as angels announced His birth (Luke 2:9-10); and His resurrection (Mark 16:6-7); so His ascension was confirmed by angelic beings – look up Acts 1:9-11.

There are seven reasons why our Lord’s ascension was necessary.

The Ascension of the Lord Jesus was necessary because His earthly mission was completed

He came to do His Father’s will – look up Psalm 40:8, and this was to die upon Calvary’s Cross for the sins of men (John 1:29; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 9:26 and 1 Peter 2:24). In anticipation of this He prayed – John 17:4. In the process of doing this He said – John 19:30! When the work was actually finished, He ascended and “sat down…” – look up Hebrews 1:3 and 10:11-12.

The Ascension of the Lord Jesus was necessary in order that He might take up His priestly office

It was only His earthly work that was finished – His heavenly work had not yet started. It was necessary for Him to ascend in order that He might begin this work – His priestly work. As our great High Priest He now stands in the presence of God as our Advocate (1 John 2:1); and our Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). By Him alone we have access to the Father (John 14:6). He intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:25). Because He is our living ascended Lord, He keeps us from falling (Hebrews 4:14-16 and Jude 24).

The Ascension of the Lord Jesus was necessary in order that He might prepare our Heavenly Home

Look up John 14:2. Yes, at His ascension the Bridegroom went to prepare a place for His Bride. He has been engaged in that work of preparation for 2000 years. Heaven is a wonderful place! Where Christ our Forerunner has gone, His people may and will also go! – Look up Hebrews 6:20. Is this your joyful prospect?

The Ascension of the Lord Jesus was necessary before He could send the Holy Spirit

See what John the Baptist said – Matthew 3:11. But this promise could not be fulfilled until the Lord Jesus ascended (John 7:39 and John 16:7). The Christian life is the life of the Lord Jesus in us by the power of the Holy Spirit, and this could only be made possible by the ascension of the Lord.

The Ascension of the Lord Jesus was necessary in order that “greater things” might be done

Look up the wonderful promise in John 14:12. His earthly body was local; His mystical body, the Church, is universal. While He walked the earth He ministered in only one place at a time – He was localized by an earthly body; but because He ascended and poured out His Spirit and gave gifts to men, He is now able to work through millions of human bodies – see Mark 16:19-20.

The Ascension of the Lord Jesus was necessary in order that every Christian, everywhere, might enjoy His continual Presence

Matthew 18:20; Matthew 28:20 and Hebrews 13:5-6 could only be possible if He ascended. How wonderful! He is with me…now! – In my joys (John 2:1-11); in my sorrows (Isaiah 43:2); in my testing’s (Matthew 14:27); and in my departing (Psalm 23:4).

The Ascension of the Lord Jesus is necessary in order that we might have a pledge of His sure and certain return

He said, “If I go…I will come back” – look up John 14:2-3, and compare Acts 1:9-11. He has gone…and we can be quite sure that He will come again

THE GIFT OF HIS SPIRIT

(Scripture Portions: John 14:16-17; 15:26-27; 16:7-15)

Many has been in willing of knowing about the Holy Spirit I saw it in a vision when GOD gave it to me. Let’s check.

The Holy Spirit is a Person. We can know Him, just as we can know God the Father and God the Son – compare John 14:7, 9 and 17, and notice the word ‘know’ in each reference. To be convinced of the personality of the Holy Spirit read John 14:16-17; 16:7-9, and underline the personal pronouns which are used in reference to Him. He is said to do things which are only possible for a person to do, and things may be done to the Holy Spirit which can only be done to a person. For example, He convicts (John 16:8); He teaches (John 14:26 and 1 John 2:27); He speaks (Acts 8:29 and Galatians 4:6); He leads (Acts 10:19; Acts 13:2; Acts 16:6-7; Acts 20:23; Romans 8:14 and Galatians 5:18); He appoints to service (Acts 13:2 and Acts 20:28); He regenerates and fills (John 3:6 and Ephesians 5:18); He may be grieved (Ephesians 4:30); He may be resisted (1 Thessalonians 5:19).

But the Holy Spirit is not only a Person; He is a Divine Person. In the scriptures He is called God (Acts 5:3-4); He possesses the attributes of deity (Genesis 1:2; Job 26:13; 1 Corinthians 2:9-11 and Hebrews 9:14); and He performs the works of God (Job 33:4; Psalm 104:30; Luke 12:11-12; Acts 1:5; Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 Corinthians 12:8-11 and 2 Peter 1:21). So the Holy Spirit is a Divine Person, the third Person of the Trinity. Notice that the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are all mentioned in Matthew 3:15-17; John 14:16; John 15:26 and John 16:15.

Towards the close of His ministry our Lord said – look up John 16:7-11. This refers to the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the unbeliever. But, He also said – look up John 14:16-17. This refers to the Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Something new was to happen. The Holy Spirit was to come and indwell every believer and to abide forever! In the old Dispensation He had come upon men for the accomplishment of special tasks, but now He was to take up residence within the life of every believer. Before He ascended, the Savior said – look up Luke 24:49 and Acts 1:4; and on the Day of Pentecost the Holy Spirit came and indwelt every believer, as we learn from Acts 2:4.

Now, what was the purpose of His coming into the hearts of God’s children to abide forever? Why did the Lord Jesus promise the gift of the Holy Spirit? Why was that promise fulfilled at Pentecost? Why is it fulfilled at the very moment anyone becomes a Christian? Among the many answers that could be given to these questions, consider the following:

The Holy Spirit communicates the Divine Life to the Believer

A Christian is one who is alive from the dead – look up Ephesians 2:1; one who has not merely turned over a ‘new leaf’ or made a ‘decision’, but he has been born again (John 3:3); and he has been made a partaker of the divine nature and of the life of Christ Himself (Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 1:27; 1 Peter 1:23-25; 2 Peter 1:4 and 1 John 5:10-12). There is only one Christian life in the world, and every believer is a partaker of that life – His life! But Christ is in Heaven, so how can I partake of His life? By the Holy Spirit who dwells within me – look up Romans 8:9 and 1 Corinthians 6:19.

The Holy Spirit unites the Believer to Christ and makes him a member of His Body

Study 1 Corinthians 12:13 very carefully, for it refers to every Christian. When we are born again, not only do we receive a new life, but as believers we are vitally joined to the Lord and to one another. All this is accomplished by the baptism with the Holy Spirit. Before conversion we were “in Adam” (1 Corinthians 15:22); but on believing, by the baptism of the Spirit, we were placed eternally in the new Creation, “in Christ” – look up 2 Corinthians 5:17. As a branch is grafted into the vine, so every believer has been grafted into Christ, united to Him, made a member of His Body – by the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit seals the Believer with the assurance of salvation

This truth is emphasized in Romans 8:14-16 and Ephesians 1:13-14.

The Holy Spirit reproduces the character of Christ in the Believer

Every real Christian longs to be like the Lord Jesus. But how can this transformation be accomplished? Not by effort, trying or struggling. Not by imitation, but by impartation, by letting the Holy Spirit produce the fruit of the Spirit within and through the life (Galatians 5:22-23). The fruit of the Spirit is produced in us as and when we abide in Christ (John 15:4-5); and this means letting His Word abide in us (1 John 3:24). The Holy Spirit has been given to make us like the Lord Jesus – look up 2 Corinthians 3:18.

The Holy Spirit accomplishes the work of the Risen Lord through the Believer

Real Christian service is not our working for Christ; it is Christ working through us. For three wonderful years the Lord Jesus worked through a perfect human body, and all He did was in the power of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 4:1; Acts 1:1-2; Acts 10:38 and Hebrews 9:14); then, after He had died, risen and ascended, He sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and work through thousands (and since then, millions) of human bodies. An effective Christian servant is one who lets the Lord work with him (Mark 16:20); and through him (John 7:37-39). Now look up John 14:12, and compare Acts 1:1.

The Holy Spirit reveals the things of Christ to the Believer

He guides us into the truth (John 16:13); and He reveals the things of Christ to us (John 16:14). He opens the scriptures to us (Psalm 119:18). Now read 1 Corinthians 2:9-14.

The Holy Spirit makes the presence of Christ real in the experience of the Believer

Read John 16:7. It is by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that the Savior’s promise in Matthew 28:20 is realized in the experience of God’s people.

THE CERTAINTY OF HIS RETURN

(Scripture Portion: Matthew 24:1-44)

There are at least five types of people who represent five different attitudes towards the Lord’s return.

The scoffers – look up 2 Peter 3:3.

The prejudiced, and those who have been turned away from this truth by unwise teachers, date-fixers etc. – look up Matthew 24:42 and Acts 1:7.

Those who are ignorant of this truth – look up Matthew 22:29.

Those who accept false views of the Second Advent.

Those who believe that He is coming again!

Yes, there are many Christians who believe that the same Lord Jesus, who was born at Bethlehem, who lived and died, rose again and ascended, and who is now exalted in Heaven, will come again the second time – literally, personally, bodily, visibly and triumphantly; and among the reasons for believing in the second coming of our Savior the following are most satisfying.

The Scriptures give constant testimony that our Lord Jesus Christ will come again

If you take your Bible and read through from the beginning you will be amazed at the emphasis on the second coming. By the time you get to Genesis 3:15 you will be face to face with the first wonderful Bible promise of a Savior who would come to earth twice – first to suffer and die, and then to reign and triumph for ever. If we were to take out of our Bible every reference to the second coming of the Lord, we would have a terribly mutilated Book. This is no ‘pet theory’ accepted by a few ‘cranks’; it is a major doctrine of the Word of God. It has been said by scholars that the second coming of Christ is mentioned no less than 1200 times in the Old Testament and 300 times in the New Testament. If we read our Bible and believe it, we cannot do other than be certain that our Savior is coming again. The fact of His return is clearly and emphatically stated in prediction, in type, in parable and in promise.

In the Old Testament the prophecies relating to the Lord Jesus Christ link together His two comings

In the Old Testament we find a double prophetic picture of Christ – as the Suffering One and as the Kingly One. For instance, in Psalms 22 and 69 and in Isaiah 53, He is revealed as the Suffering One; but in Psalms 2, 45 and 72 and in Isaiah 11, He is revealed as the Kingly One. It is impossible to harmonies these two prophetic pictures by trying to make them both refer to His first advent, for they do not both refer to His first coming. Only the first aspect of these prophecies has thus far been fulfilled, and the prophecies which speak of Him as Lord of lords and King of kings await fulfilment. Scripture knows no first coming without a second coming. The two comings are inseparable in the prophetic Word. Notice that both advents are proclaimed in the following scriptures: Genesis 3:15; Psalms 22 and 24; Isaiah 61:1-2; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 and Hebrews 9:24-28.

The Lord Jesus clearly stated that He would come again

The best loved verses in the whole Bible are in John 14:1-3, where we find our Lord’s promise that He will come again for His blood-bought ones. Turn to 1 John 5:9 – we receive the witness of men, but here we have the witness of the Lord Himself, and He cannot lie! Here also are His own words – look up Matthew 16:27; Matthew 24:37; Mark 13:26 and Luke 12:40. Read the parables of our Lord and see how full they are of His second coming. We believe He is coming again because He said He would.

At His Ascension the angels said that He would come a second time

Read Acts 1:9-11, and you will agree that these words are so clear that they cannot permit any other interpretation being given to them. The testimony of the angels is of great value, for the angelic testimonies concerning His birth and His resurrection were literally fulfilled – look up Luke 1:26 and Luke 24:4.

The Apostolic testimony in the New Testament letters is emphatic that the Lord will come again

Twenty-two out of the twenty-seven New Testament books speak of the second coming. Paul constantly teaches this great doctrine (1 and 2 Thessalonians); so does James (James 5:7-8); so does Peter (2 Peter 3:3-4); so does John (1 John 3:2 and Revelation 1:7; and so does Jude (Jude 14). Now look up 2 Timothy 3:16 and compare 2 Peter 1:21.

Since the closing of the canon of Scripture there has been continuous testimony to the second coming of Christ

For over 2000 years God has had His witnesses to this truth. The writings of the Early Fathers (Clement of Rome, Polycarp, Ignatius of Antioch, Justyn Martyn etc.) reveal their belief that Christ would return. The Reformers (John Wycliffe, John Calvin and Martin Luther) also believed and preached the second coming. Also all of the great evangelists and preachers whom God has signally used have believed in and proclaimed our Lord’s second coming. It is also deeply significant that all the well-known Protestant ‘Statements of Belief’ include the second coming as an important doctrine.

The Second Advent of Christ is a dispensational and a logical necessity

God is working to a plan, and His ultimate act will be the enthronement of His Son as King of kings and Lord of lords – look up Philippians 2:5-11. Before this final victory can be accomplished, Christ Himself must come back again to this earth.

THE BRIDEGROOM AND HIS BRIDE

Key-verse and Theme of the Book: “My lover is mine and I am his”

(Song of Songs 2:16)

I don’t know what is wrong with you the believers because you have been miss interpreting this bible and turn it to remain like a love book in between a man and a woman not knowing the meaning of it or any other inter- ration part of it. In this book we have the best of the one thousand and five songs written by King Solomon (1 Kings 4:32), and it has been incorporated into our Bible – look up 2 Timothy 3:16. There are difficulties in connection with this book; for example, the name of God is not mentioned and it is not quoted by our Lord or by any of the writers in the New Testament; also, sometimes the language is obscure and it is not always easy to be sure who the speaker is. However, it has been a source of endless delight to the saintliest men and women all down the ages. It is a beautiful love story presented in

Poetic form. All through the book the love of the bridegroom for his bride, and of the bride for her bridegroom, is emphasized, and this pictures the wonderful union which exists between Christ, the Heavenly Bridegroom, and His Church, the Bride of Christ – and thus, between Christ and the individual believer. Throughout scripture, metaphors based on the marriage relationship are used of Israel’s relationship with God and the Church’s relationship with Christ – look up Psalm 45; Isaiah 54:5-6; Jeremiah 2:2; Hosea 2:14-23; Matthew 9:15; John 3:29 and Ephesians 5:23-27; and this is beautifully summed up for us in the key-verse of this first study, in which we hear the bride joyfully exclaiming, “My lover is mine and I am his.” Let us consider these words and see something of the nature and significance of this holy union which has been effected between Christ and the believer.

It is a divinely accomplished union. When the bride says, “My lover is mine and I am his”, it is the initiative of the bridegroom that is emphasized. How wonderful it is that as believers we are “married to another”, even to the Lord Jesus the Lover of our soul (Romans 7:4); and we are made with Him “one flesh” (Ephesians 5:30-32).

It is a gracious union. The hymn is right – “Loved with everlasting love, led by grace that love to know.” The bride was unworthy of her bridegroom’s love – as we are unworthy of the great love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – look up and compare Romans 5:8.

It is an Eternal union. We are eternally united with Christ, our Heavenly Bridegroom. Not even death will part us – look up and compare Malachi 3:17; Romans 8:35-39 and Colossians 3:3. “I am His, and His forever!”

Let us consider this union a little more closely and see exactly what it means to those who can truly say of the Lord, “My lover is mine, and I am His.”

He is my bridegroom and I am his bride

There is no closer, more intimate or more sacred union than that of husband and wife, and we have this emphasized in Ephesians 5:23-33. Just think of it! The Lord Jesus is my Bridegroom, the Lover of my soul, and I am His bride! What does this mean? It means two things in particular:-

It means that I share His love. Over and over again in the Song of Songs the bride calls her bridegroom her “lover”. This is a beautiful title; no-one can compare with Him, and again and again she speaks of his love for her and also of her love for him. This is something they share together – just as we, as believers, share the love of the Lord Jesus for us and our love for Him – look up Song of Songs (his love for her) 1:2; 2:4; 2:10 and 13; 4:7 and 7:10; and (her love for him) 1:7; 2:5; 3:1,2,3 and 4; 4:10; 5:8 and 7:12.

It means that I bear His Name. In a marriage the bride takes the name of the bridegroom; and the same is true with the believer who becomes united by faith to Christ – look up Song of Songs 1:3. We as believers are called ‘saints’, because of our union with Christ – look up Romans 1:7; we are also called ‘Christians’ for the same reason – look up Acts 11:26.

He is my friend and I am his companion

In speaking of the beautiful character of her bridegroom, the bride (in Song of Songs 5:16) says, “This is my lover, this my friend”; and Jesus, to the believer, is the Friend of friends, and we are His chosen companions – look up John 15:15. This means two things in particular:-

It means that He tells me His secrets. This is something distinctive about friendship. Friends share secrets. Abraham was “the Friend of God” (James 2:23); and compare John 15:15 and Psalm 25:14. What a wonderful thing it is to share the Lord’s secrets! – Look up Proverbs 3:32. See also the special promise recorded in John 7:17.

He understands my weakness. There are at least two instances in the Song of Songs where the bride, through carelessness, neglect, laziness and indifference, grieves her bridegroom, but he does not abandon her – compare Song of Songs 3:1-3 and 5:2-8. He is not only her bridegroom, but he is her friend, and he understands her through and through – look up Proverbs 18:24. How wonderful it is that our Lord Jesus Christ bears this relationship to us, and that we can claim Him as our Friend! – Look up John 15:14.

HE IS MY KING AND I AM HIS SUBJECT

Solomon, who in all his earthly glory and prowess represents the heavenly Bridegroom, was a king in his own right, and he therefore correctly portrays the Lord Jesus, who is our King. Remember this: He is not only our Bridegroom and our Friend, but He is our King (Song of Songs 1:4; 1:12; 3:9 and 11; and compare Revelation 19:6). This means two things in particular:-

As my King, I own His authority. In other words, if He is my King, I must be His loyal subject. This is beautifully brought out for us in Ephesians 5:23-33, where we are told that “the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ is the head of the church” (verse 23); that “the church submits to Christ” (verse 24); and that the wife is to “respect (be in subjection to and live in obedience to) her husband” (verse 33).

As my King, I rely upon His wisdom. How wise King Solomon was! – look up 1 Kings 4:29 and 34; Matthew 12:42 and Luke 11:31. But how wise our King is! – Look up Colossians 2:3 and 1 Corinthians 4:10. He who is our “Wisdom” waits to bestow wisdom upon us – look up James 1:5.

We have only taken a brief look at this holy union, the glorious relationship that has been effected between Christ and the believer. How do you stand with regard to all this? Is He your Bridegroom, and are you His bride? Is He your Friend, and are you His companion? Is He your King, and are you His loyal subject?

PERSONAL COMMUNION WITH THE LORD

“Take me away with you – let us hurry! Let the king bring me into his chambers. We rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine” (Song of Songs 1:4)

In this verse the bride (the believer) is speaking to her bridegroom (Christ) about her personal communion with him. What do we know of personal, day by day communion with the Lord? It is possible to know about Him and yet not to know Him; and it is also possible to know Him just a little or to know Him really well – look up and compare John 14:9 and Philippians 3:10. This study emphasizes the importance of these matters and leads us to consider the following points:-

THE ONE WITH WHOM WE ENJOY COMMUNION IS THE KING

See how the verse reads: “Take me away with you: let the king bring me into his chambers…” Pause for a moment and think of the wonder of this. In this love story, Solomon is the king, and here we are told that he went forth in royal splendor to meet his bride. But we have a greater king than Solomon (Matthew 12:42). Our king is the Lord Jesus, the royal king of eternity, who was born king and was majestic in His life and death. He is king now in Heaven, and one day He will manifest Himself as King of kings and Lord of lords – look up Revelation 19:16. What a privilege it is for us to enjoy holy and intimate communion with Him! Are we doing this, or are we too busy? Are we on speaking terms with Him? How well do we know Him? (Luke 10:38-42).

THE DESIRE FOR COMMUNION IS STIMULATED WITHIN US AS WE MEDITATE UPON THE KING’S LOVE AND AFFECTION FOR US

Notice the words: “Take me, let us hurry…” The king, who is the bridegroom, is coming out to meet his bride, the one he loves so much. He is resplendent in his royal robes. The bride looks at him and she longs for him and cries out, "Take me away with you..." - look also at verses 2 and 3 and the first part of verse 4. It is as we think of Him and meditate upon the Lord’s love for us that we long to be with Him and to be alone with Him, and that we find ourselves saying to Him, “Take me…” (“Draw me…” KJV) This drawing is the work of the Holy Spirit (Psalm 104:34), and compare John 16:14. There is nothing magical or mystical about this, for the Holy Spirit draws us to Christ when we read His Word and when we seek His face.

THIS COMMUNION WITH THE KING HAS TO BE SOUGHT AND CULTIVATED

When we see the King in His beauty and the desire for Him wells up within us, it is then that we cry out: “Draw me…” However, we not only express this desire, but the desire is translated into action, and we go on to run after Him. Notice that it does not say, “Draw me, and we will run to the meetings…we will go to church…” All these may be included, and may be good, but it is the Lord Himself we want, it is communion with Him; and this is something that has to be sought and cultivated and planned for. We must “take time to be holy”. That may sound old-fashioned, but it is the heart of the matter.

THIS COMMUNION IS A VERY SACRED, SECRET AND INTIMATE EXPERIENCE

Notice the words: “Let the king bring me into his chambers.” Do you see the picture? The road is crowded, the king is coming to meet his bride and there are people everywhere. The bride sees him and she longs for him, so she runs to him, and then what? Do they stay together in the crowd? No, they get away from the crowd and go into a secret place – “Let the king bring me into his chambers” – the place of personal and private communion with the Lord Himself – look up and compare Matthew 6:6; 14:22-23; Mark 1:35; 3:13-14. What the Lord wants most of all is to have us just for Himself. It is not our service that He first wants, it is ourselves – look up Mark 6:30-32.

ONLY IN SECRET COMMUNION WITH CHRIST DO WE EXPERIENCE TRUE JOY

“Let the king bring me into his chambers. We rejoice and delight in you…” or, as one translation puts it, “we will thrill with delight!” This is “an inexpressible and glorious joy…” (1 Peter 1:8). This is the joy of the Lord, His joy, bestowed by Him and received from Him (John 15:11; 16:22 and 24).

COMMUNION WITH CHRIST SURPASSES THE HIGHEST FORMS OF EARTHLY JOY

Notice that the verse goes on: “We will praise your love more than wine…” Wine is often used in scripture to represent the chief of earthly luxuries. The love of Jesus, communion with Him, is more wonderful than anything that earth can offer. Of course, this does not make sense to one who is not yet a Christian; the words of the hymn are right – “The love of Jesus, what it is, none but His loved ones know.” Do you find your chief delight in the Lord Himself? – Not in the world, not in things, not even in the Lord’s people, but in Him? – Look up Psalm 16:11 and Habakkuk 3:17-18.

COMMUNION WITH THE LORD LEADS TO TRUE SPIRITUALITY AND HOLINESS OF LIFE

The words “How right they are to adore you!” may be literally rendered, “they love you uprightly.” In other words, when we really come to know the Lord our love is purified and our lives are sanctified because of our intimate fellowship with Him – look up 2 Corinthians 3:18 for the scripture teaching with regard to this. What it really means is: if we spend much time with the Lord we shall become like the Lord. This will be the reflex result of our communion and fellowship with Him.

In the Amplified Bible the variant reading of the last part of our key-verse is most helpful: “The upright (are not offended at your choice, but they sincerely) love you.” In other words, to come into real communion with the Lord Jesus means to love His will, to accept His will and to believe that it is always, as we are told in Romans 12:2, “his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

THE NEGLECTED VINEYARD

: “They made me take care of the vineyards; my own vineyard I have neglected” (Song of Songs 1:6)

These haunting words are most challenging to all who are engaged in the service of the Lord, and they should be read in conjunction with Proverbs 24:30-31 – “I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of the man who lacks judgment; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins.” The warning which comes to us in this study may be summed up in the statement, “Beware of the barrenness of a busy life!” Too often public profession and activity are accompanied by inward neglect and spiritual declension. The one who confesses her neglect in this passage was not neglectful of her duties. She had been made black by the sun as she had labored among the vines in the heat of the day; she was the keeper of the vineyards – but she had neglected her own vineyard. Notice that three things are indicated in the words upon which this study is based.

THE PRIVILEGE WE ENJOY

What is it? It is this: that we as Christians, as servants of the Lord, are keepers of the Lord’s vineyards. We have been saved by His wonderful grace and He has set us in a sphere of service where we are to labor for Him. We are in that place by Divine appointment. Notice the force of the words, “They made me…” The speaker had been made, compelled, to keep the vineyards. The same is true of us. We did not choose to serve the Lord, He chose us (John 15:16). All we did was to obey His call (Matthew 21:28), and allow His love to constrain us to be His servants (2 Corinthians 5:14). What are the vineyards in which we are serving the Lord? In a word, our vineyard is just where the Lord has placed us. If you are a mother, your vineyard is the home; if you are in business, your vineyard is in the office; if you are a soldier, your vineyard is in the army; and if you are a preacher, your vineyard is amongst the people to whom the Lord has commissioned you to minister His Word. The manager of a large company once asked his minister to present the claims of Christ to the members of his staff. Why did he do this? He did it because he recognized that his vineyard was his business, where God had placed him. What a privilege it is to be a keeper of one of the Lord’s vineyards! But immense dangers face us. “My mother’s sons were angry with me and made me take care of the vineyards;” – and then follows a confession, “my own vineyard I have neglected.” Consider this quietly, and search your own heart about it.

THE DANGER WE FACE

How very easy it is to serve the Lord zealously, to be on the job all the time, and yet to neglect our own inner life, our personal communion with the Lord Himself, our study of His Word and our fellowship in the secret place! How easily possible it is for the shoemaker’s boy to be the poorest shod, and for the tailor’s son to wear the shabbiest clothes! How sadly possible it is for the preacher to proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ, but to fail to adorn the doctrine in his own personal and private life! – Look up Titus 2:10. This is the danger which is faced by every servant of the Lord. It is the possibility of neglecting the cultivation of one’s own inner life of communion with the Lord Himself. We can never lift others above the level of our own spiritual experience; it is, therefore, a very sad, as well as a very solemn thing, to neglect our own spiritual life. Maybe you have failed the Lord in this respect? You have been so zealous in serving the Lord in your church, in your home, or as you have sought to witness for Him in the office or in the open-air meeting. What about your inner life? Do you need to make the confession: “My own vineyard I have neglected!”? Could it be that in your private and personal life thorns have come up everywhere and the ground is covered with weeds…? How can we avoid the danger of neglecting our own vineyard? One thing is certain; we must take action and apply the remedy, and we must do it immediately and frequently.

THE REMEDY WE APPLY

How must we keep our own vineyards? It would seem that there are four simple requirements and these are indicated by the following four words:-

Pruning. There must be some pruning; that is, the lopping off of fruitless branches which would hinder the living branches from bearing fruit. Our Lord spoke about this in John 15:2 – “He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit.” This surely refers to the things which need to be pruned away from our lives, the dead branches which will never bear any fruit. We cannot cut them off or take them away, but He will do it – “He takes them away.” Perhaps you have a dead branch in your life? Ask the Lord to take it away, to lop it off, and to cut it off! - Look up Matthew 5:29-30.

Purging. The Lord Jesus also said, in John 15:2, “Every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes it so that it will be even more fruitful.” The word “purge” means “to cleanse”. This does not refer to dead branches, but to the living branches which need to be cut back in order that the fruit may be prolific and luscious. Maybe the reference here is to those things which may be quite lawful to us but are not expedient (1 Corinthians 6:12 and 10:23). The purging, or cleansing, certainly refers to all that is sinful and displeasing to the Lord (2 Corinthians 7:1 and 2 Timothy 2:19-22). This purging must take place if we are to be useful to the Lord – “meet for the Master’s use.”

Provision. If the vineyard is to be kept in good order, nourishment and fertilization will be needed for the soil. The same is true for our souls. We can only keep spiritually fit as we know what it is to go into the secret place regularly (Matthew 6:6), and to dwell deeply in the Word of God for the nourishment of our souls (2 Timothy 2:15).

Protection. If we are to take care of our inner life we need to be constantly on the look-out for the “little foxes” which invade the vineyard and spoil the vines (Song of Songs 2:15). It is not always the big foxes; it is so often the little foxes which rob us of power and spoil our testimony! – Look up Psalm 139:23-24.

Let us rejoice in the privilege of being commissioned to serve God; let us beware of the danger of neglecting our own inner life; and let us live in holy and happy fellowship with the Lord from day to day, and thus become more and more fruitful in His service.

SITTING DOWN IN HIS SHADE

“I delight to sit in his shade, and his fruit is sweet to my taste. He has taken me to the banquet hall, and his banner over me is love” (Song of Songs 2:3-4)

The Song of Songs set forth in tender symbolism the love of Christ for the Church (His Bride); and the love of the Bride (His Church), for Christ (the Bridegroom). In this small section of scripture the bride is speaking about her bridegroom, and in what she says we have a glimpse of the sufficiency of our Lord. The bride speaks of her estimate of her loved one and tells us what she possesses in him. She describes him (in verses 3, 8, 9, 10, 16) as her “lover”, and she concludes by saying, “My lover is mine, and I am his.” It is exactly like this with the Lord and His people. We are married to Christ (Romans 7:3-4). How rich and how blessed we are! – Look up Romans 8:16-17; Ephesians 1:3 and 1:11; Colossians 2:9-10. Do you wonder that David could say – look up Psalm 87:7 (last phrase)? Or that Wesley could say, “Thou, O Christ, art all I want; more than all in Thee I find”? What are the rich blessings which are ours in Christ, our Lover?

IN CHRIST WE HAVE PERFECT REST

We learn this from the words in verse 3: “I delight to sit in his shade.” In the first part of this verse the Lord is spoken of as a beautiful citron tree, rich in fragrance, abundant in foliage and fruitfulness. This was by far the best among the trees; thus, our Lord excels all others, and here the bride says, “I delight to sit in his shade”, indicating the perfect rest she found in his presence (Matthew 11:28-30). After His work on Calvary, Jesus “sat down”, because His work was done (Hebrews 10:12); and because He has finished the work of our redemption we may "sit down" and enter into a two-fold rest; peace with God (Romans 5:1), and the peace of God (Philippians 4:7). Do you know rest from the burden of sin, from a guilty conscience, from the dominion of sin and from the demands of the Law? This can only be found in His “shade” or “shadow” - look up Psalm 91:1, and compare Psalm 27:5; 31:10 and 32:7.

IN CHRIST WE HAVE COMPLETE PROTECTION

We learn this from the words in verse 3: “in his shade” – that is to say, under the shade of the citron tree, protected from the fierce rays of the sun. The word “shade” in scripture denotes protection, as in Judges 9:15; Job 40:22 and Psalm 63:7. What is the protection which we have in Christ? It is two-fold: spiritual protection for the soul for time and for eternity (John 10:28-29); and physical protection as long as God wills it (Romans 8:28). Our protection is summed up beautifully in Colossians 3:3!

IN CHRIST WE HAVE ABOUNDING JOY

We learn this from the words in verse 3: “I delight”. How does the bride feel as she sits with her lover? Surely she is filled with joy and delight – look up 1 Peter 1:8, and compare Psalm 16:11. Thus we, as believers, enter into and experience the Lord’s own joy (John 15:11), a joy which was full even on the eve of His death, a joy which is supernatural and which is experienced even in the midst of trials and testing’s – look up Acts 5:41 and Acts 16:25. Do you know His abounding joy?

IN CHRIST WE HAVE BOUNTIFUL SUPPLY

We learn this from the words in verse 3: “His fruit is sweet to my taste.” The reference is to the fruit of the tree under which the bride was sitting with her lover. She found complete sufficiency and absolute satisfaction in his gracious provision for her. What is this sweet satisfying fruit that we, as Christians, experience and that is only ours because of our union with the Lord Jesus? It is mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. We cannot produce this fruit; it is “the fruit of the Holy Spirit, the work which His presence within accomplishes” (Amplified Bible) – look up and compare Hosea 14:8 (last phrase). How satisfying His fruit is! – “His fruit is sweet to my taste”!

IN CHRIST WE HAVE PERSONAL GUIDANCE

We learn this from the words in verse 4: “He has taken me to the banquet hall” – notice the ‘he’ and the ‘me’. The bridegroom puts his arm around his bride and leads her lovingly into the banquet hall, and this is exactly what the Lord is doing, or wants to do, for us – look up and compare Psalm 32:8 and Proverbs 3:5-6. His guidance is personal. His leading is gentle, and His direction is accurate, certain and purposeful – look up Psalm 37:23-24 and see what David was able to say in Psalm 78:72.

IN CHRIST WE HAVE SWEET FELLOWSHIP

We learn this from the words in verse 4: “He has taken me to the banquet hall” – literally, ‘the house of delights’. This is a picture of His Church and of the fellowship we enjoy as members one of another – fellowship around His Table (1 Corinthians 11:23-26); around His Word (Acts 17:11-12); in prayer (Acts 12:5); in service (2 Corinthians 6:1); in our joys and in our sorrows. What a wonderful thing it is that through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ we are “all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

IN CHRIST WE HAVE CONSTANT VICTORY

We learn this from the words in verse 4: “His banner over me is love”. Through faith in Him, and because of His victory, we are “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37). It is His banner that is over us, not ours; it is His victory we share, not something which is the result of our trying or effort. The banner is the symbol of victory, and His banner is over us and over all God’s children.

If we really do have all this in Christ, our Lover, what more can we want, in time or in eternity?

THE LITTLE FOXES THAT SPOIL THE VINES

“Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom” (Song of Songs 2:15)

There is one verse in the Gospel of John which tells us of the Lord’s purpose for every one of His children. That verse is John 15:16, which contains the word of Jesus Himself – “You did not choose me, but I have chosen you and appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last”, and it would seem most appropriate to set the key-verse of this study against this one great declaration of our Lord. To do this will enable us to learn some lessons about fruitfulness in Christian living and in Christian service. Consider the following sequence of teaching:-

TO BEGIN WITH, WE SEE THAT JESUS HIMSELF IS “THE TRUE VINE”

We are sure of this because we are told in John 15:1 that He said of Himself, “I am the true vine”. He said this in connection with the institution of the Lord’s Supper, when the bread and wine were employed by Him as symbols of His sacrifice and offering upon Calvary. He was therefore saying to His disciples, “I am the real, genuine vine”, and of course the vine is the source of the fruit. Any fruit which appears on the vine does not derive its life from the branches or from the leaves, but from the vine itself; nor is any fruit that appears on the vine the result of any ‘effort’ on the part of the branches or the leaves! This leads us to the second truth, which is clearly emphasized in John 15.

BELIEVERS, CHRISTIANS, ARE BRANCHES IN THE VINE

We are also told in John 15:1 that our Lord said, “My Father is the gardener” – that is, He is the One who tends the vine and busies Himself with the branches, as verses 2-6 indicate. But who are the branches? We have the answer in verse 5 – “I am the vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me and me in him he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." The branches, then, are believers, Christians, and incidentally this verse shows us exactly what a Christian is. A Christian is a branch in the vine, one who is joined to Christ, united to Him and deriving life from Him, and he is a participant of His very nature (2 Peter 1:4). A branch is not a dead stick, it is a living thing. This leads us to the third truth.

AS BRANCHES IN THE VINE, WE ARE TO BEAR FRUIT

It is the function of the branch to bear fruit. Thus we read in John 15 verse 2, “Every branch in me that bears not fruit…”; in verse 4, “No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must…”; in verse 5, “He will bear much fruit…”; and in verse 16 we read that we are “chosen…appointed…” – for what? To “go and bear fruit”! The Lord is looking for fruit in our lives, and as He looks He says – look up Hosea 14:8. The source of this fruit is the Lord Himself; the manifestation of this fruit is seen in the branches of the vine. What kind of fruit are we, as Christians, to bear? What is the fruit that appears on the branches which are united to the true vine?

THE FRUIT WE ARE TO BEAR IS “THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT”

This is not “the fruit of the spirit” (small ‘’), but “the fruit of the Spirit” (large ‘S’) – Galatians 5:22-23 which, in the Amplified Bible, reads –

“But the fruit of the (Holy) Spirit, [the work which His presence within accomplishes] – is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness; (Meekness, humility) gentleness, self-control (self-restraint, continence).”

These verses give us a vivid picture of the Christian life as our Lord intended it should be. We should be loving, joyful, restful, patient, kind, good, trustworthy, and humble and disciplined. This is the fruit we should be bearing. These are the graces which should characterize us as Christians. Now notice the next point.

THE “LITTLE FOXES THAT RUIN THE VINEYARDS”, THAT HINDER THE GROWTH AND TAKE AWAY THE TENDER FRUIT, ARE THE SINS OF THE SPIRIT

This time the word ‘spirit’ is spelt with a small ‘’ (2 Corinthians 7:1). The “sins of the flesh” are the gross sins of adultery, murder, blasphemy, drunkenness etc. The “sins of the spirit” are “the little foxes” that creep in almost unnoticed and spoil the vines and take away the fruit. What are these “little foxes”, these “sins of the spirit”? There are three kinds: there are the wrong things we think, the wrong things we say and the wrong things we do. These may be described as heart sins, lip sins and behavior sins.

Think of the heart sins, the secret sins. David had something to say about these in Psalm 51:10. What are they? They are sins such as jealousy, pride and impurity. These are “the little foxes that spoil the vineyards”, the sins of the spirit that hinder the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. God can see these ‘secret’ sins – look up Psalm 90:8.

There are the lip sins. Do you ever pray the prayer recorded in Psalm 141:3? Or did you ever notice the testimony of the psalmist in Psalm 120:1-3? What a lot of harm this “little fox” of an unruly, undisciplined tongue can do, especially when it is a lying tongue, a critical tongue or a tale-bearing tongue!

There are the behavior sins. These are sins that we commit when we act in such a way that it is obvious to an onlooker that we have an unclean heart and a wrong spirit – when we are unkind, thoughtless or harsh in our treatment of others, or when we are wrong in our relationship with another person.

How these “little foxes” spoil the vines! How they rob our lives of the fruit that the Holy Spirit is waiting and wanting to produce in and through us! What can we do with these “little foxes”?

THE WAY TO DEAL WITH “THE LITTLE FOXES” IS TO KILL THEM

They must be rounded up and put to death (Galatians 5:24); they must be mortified (Romans 6:11). If the little foxes are not put to death they will grow into big foxes! For an illustration of the way to kill the little foxes read Judges 15:4-5, and turn to Romans 13:14. But how can we do this? We cannot do it in our own strength.

THE WAY TO KILL “THE LITTLE FOXES” IS TO RELY UPON THE HOLY SPIRIT

We learn this from Galatians 5:16 – “Live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” Yield to the Holy Spirit, trust Him and rely upon Him to give you the victory. Then there will appear in your life an abundance of fruit – “the fruit of the Spirit”.

D to Enoch, ‘the seventh from Adam’, who walked with God and lived each day in holy fellowship with Him. Adam and Eve walked with God until sin came in and broke that fellowship between the Creator and His creatures. When unbelief has robbed man of fellowship with God, faith is the link by which he is restored into fellowship with Him. Enoch’s faith enabled him to enjoy this fellowship. Notice, this is the only thing we are told about Enoch – that he ‘walked with God’; but that is the greatest achievement for anyone, to live on this earth and be in fellowship with God Himself! All down the centuries men and women have known what it is to walk with God; in our own day millions of ordinary people enjoy the same blessed fellowship with the Lord Himself. Let us ask and answer the questions: What is this fellowship like? When does it begin? How does it go on? How does it end, so far as this life is concerned?

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FELLOWSHIP OF FAITH

What were the distinguishing marks of Enoch’s walk?

First, it was a walk with God. The word to emphasize is the word ‘with’, for this word denotes fellowship. Enoch did not walk independently but in dependence upon God. He walked with God, which implies that he went in the same direction, at the same speed, and that his life was lived in harmony with the Lord, in step with Him – look up Amos 3:3. Enoch lived in the conscious presence of God and in the center of His will.

Second, it was a walk that was pleasing to God. We are told this in Hebrews 11:5. Is it possible for us to know that we are living day by day in a way which is pleasing to the Lord? Yes, it is – for in His Word God has told us some of the things which are pleasing to Him. For example: (I) we can only please Him if we are born again – look up Romans 8:8; (ii) we can only please Him if we are living lives which are separate from sinful and doubtful things – look up 2 Timothy 2:4; (iii) we can only please Him by giving ourselves wholly to Him – look up Romans 12:1; and (iv) we can only please Him by obeying Him – look up Colossians 3:20, and compare John 8:29; Romans 15:3.

Enoch, then, was like any other man in that he lived on earth; but he had faith in God, and this brought him into fellowship with God and made him well-pleasing to God. When did Enoch begin this walk, this fellowship with God? 7

THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE FELLOWSHIP OF FAITH.

Was Enoch always a believer? Did he always walk with God? It seems fairly clear from Genesis 5:21 and 22 that he began to live a life of faith at the age of 65, when Methuselah was born. What is the answer to the question that is asked in John 3:4? The answer is – yes! A man can be born when he is old – that is, he can be born again! Very often the joys and the pleasures of life lead to a man’s conversion, as possibly the birth of Methuselah led Enoch to commence a walk with God – look up Romans 2:4; but sometimes it is not the joys but the sorrows and afflictions of life which lead to a man’s conversion. Many, like the Prodigal Son, have to come to the end of their tether or into straitened circumstances before they are ready to seek the Lord and turn to Him – look up Luke 15:17-18. It may be you are in a place of great difficulty now, and that God has brought you there in order that you may turn to Him for help and deliverance. If this is so, it is only because He loves you, and wants you to seek Him and find Him and enjoy fellowship with Him – look up Isaiah 55:6-7. Why not turn to Him now and start today to walk with Him? Your name may not be Enoch, but you can do what Enoch did!

THE CONTINUATION OF THE FELLOWSHIP OF FAITH.

How long did Enoch walk with God? Enoch’s walk with God continued just as long as his earthly life lasted; then he stepped from earth to Heaven and faith was lost in sight. Perhaps some of Enoch’s relatives or friends who noticed that he was now walking with the Lord said, ‘It won’t last! It’s only a nine-day’ wonder!’ But Enoch’s walk with God did last; he went on and on in the fellowship of faith until, as Genesis 5:24 dramatically states, ‘he was no more; because God took him away.’ Think of it! Enoch walked with God for 300 years, for 109,500 days, for 2,628,000 hours! Did he live in a monastery? No, he had a home, a wife, children, business, pleasures, joys and sorrows, just as we have; but he had an anointed ear to hear God’s voice – look up Psalm 27:8; a heart full of love for Him – look up John 21:15-17; a will ready to obey Him – look up Acts 9:6; and he had the enabling of the Holy Spirit, just as every believer has – look up John 14:16.

THE CONSUMMATION OF THE FELLOWSHIP OF FAITH.

How did Enoch’s walk of faith end? As we have noticed, Genesis 5:24 tells us, ‘he was no more; because God took him away’; and in Hebrews 11:5 we are told that he ‘could not be found, because God had taken him away.’ Thus, it was only the faith aspect of Enoch’s fellowship which came to an end; the fellowship did not finish because the fellowship went on in Heaven directly it came to an end on earth! And if we walk with God down here, by faith in Him, this will be our experience also. We may have to pass through the value of death – look up 2 Corinthians 5:8; on the other hand we may, like Enoch, go to be with the Lord without dying. But whether our bodies are in the grave or are still upon the earth, at His coming we shall be taken from this life! – look up and compare 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 and

1 Corinthians 15:51-52.

THE WORK OF FAITH – NOAH

(Hebrews 11:7; Genesis chapters 6, 7 and 8)

Let’s check Noah and see in him an illustration of the work of faith; for as believers it is not only our privilege to come into fellowship with God and to walk in fellowship with Him, but also to be His co-workers – look up 2 Corinthians 6:1, and compare Ephesians 2:10. In James 2:17 we see that wherever there is true faith in God, there is always an outward evidence of that faith. Belief affects behavior; faith shows itself in works. It is vain to say that we have faith in God if there are no works in our lives resulting from such faith. Noah had faith, which made him well-pleasing to the Lord, and which was seen in the amazing work he did in building the ark, in proclaiming God’s Word and in obeying the Lord.

Read Hebrews 11:7, and compare Genesis, chapters 6, 7 and 8 with 1 Peter 3:20; 2 Peter 2:5; then notice the following three reasons why this study of Noah is so up to date in its teaching:

Noah lived in a day of grace – and so do we! In Noah’s case, the door of salvation was open for 120 years – look up 1 Peter 3:20. We live in a day of grace, when God’s offer of salvation is still being made to men and women – look up 2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:7-8; Revelation 22:17.

Noah lived and worked in a day of terrible apostasy – and so do we! Read Genesis 6:1-7 and see what dark days they were – and look up 1 Timothy 4:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:1-9. As Noah lived and labored for the Lord in a time of great spiritual and moral darkness and wickedness, so do us.

Noah lived and worked at the end of an age or dispensation – and so do we! Noah worked for God in the last days of the antediluvian dispensation; we live in the last days of the dispensation of grace – look up Matthew 24:37-39. Noah lived in a world which was under condemnation; so do we – look up and compare Genesis 6:7 with John 3:18-19; Romans 3:19; 2 Thessalonians 2:7-9.

Let us now look at Noah and see how faith works. What is the work of faith?

THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO HEAR THE VOICE OF GOD AMID THE CLAMOUR OF OTHER VOICES.

What a confusion of voices there is today! Amid the babble of voices, Noah, by faith, heard God speaking to him -–see Genesis 6:13 and Hebrews 11:7; and the first work of faith for us is to do the same. It’s not easy, for like Noah we are surrounded by so many confusing voices – even ‘religious’ ones – but the work of faith is to catch God’s voice amid all the other voices of earth and from Hell – look up and compare Hebrews 3:7; 1 Kings 19:11-12.

THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO OBEY THE VOICE OF GOD HOWEVER CONTRARY TO HUMAN REASON IT MAY SEEM TO BE.

Look at Genesis 6:14 – but who had ever heard of an ark, or a flood! Surely there must be some mistake? No – God had said it, and the work of faith is to accept and act upon God’s revelation, however contrary to human reason it may appear to be – look up Genesis 6:22. God’s people have often been called mad when they have done His bidding – look up John 10:20; Acts 26:24.

THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO DO THE WILL OF GOD EVEN THOUGH YOU APPEAR TO BE THE ONLY ONE DOING IT.

Are you the only Christian in your home, at college or at work? Noah was the only one, at first. God’s people have always been in the minority – look up 1 Kings 19:14; Matthew 7:13-14. When the Devil suggests to you that you are mistaken in being a Christian because so few are Christians, then remember it is the work of faith to call him a liar – look up John 8:44 – and to go on living and working for the Lord even though you appear to be the only one in your sphere who is doing so – look up Matthew 11:2-6.

THE PERIL OF SPIRITUAL APATHY

“I slept but my heart was awake: I opened for my lover, but my lover had left; he was gone…” (Song of Songs 5:2-8)

This section in the Song of Songs tells us how the bride, on account of apathy and neglect, lost fellowship with her bridegroom. The bride loved, and certainly belonged to, her bridegroom. That relationship could never change, but for the time being she was out of touch with him. This was due to her apathy, to her neglect of him, to her lazy carelessness. She reached a point where she sought him, “but my lover had left, he was gone”. It was not his fault that fellowship was broken, but hers, and yet she had not intended it. She had just been careless and neglectful, she had perhaps taken his love for granted, and she had become self-occupied. It was not that she had been unfaithful and had lived as a prostitute (Jeremiah 3:1); it was not due to any willful sin (Hebrews 10:26); it was not any secret sin (Psalm 90:8); she had not acted as Peter did (Luke 22:54); as Demas did (2 Timothy 4:10); or as Jonah did (Jonah 1:1-3). She had not, in fact, committed any deliberate act of sin; she had just been neglectful and careless. And how easily we can be guilty of the same folly; to be occupied with the Lord’s service and to love Him, and yet not to be living in close fellowship with Him! Let us see how the bride got into this sad condition and what she did about it.

The folly she confessed

We get this in verse 2 – “I slept, but my heart was awake.” It is foolish for a Christian to sleep when he should be awake, but here we are told that while the bride was asleep her heart was in fact awake. She still loved her lover, but her body was overcome with sleep, and she was completely inactive. This could be said to be the condition of the Church, the Bride of Christ, today. We as believers certainly love Him, but how often we are asleep! We sleep when Jesus, our Bridegroom, waits for us to join Him in the work of evangelism, in the strengthening of the churches or in active, personal witnessing for Him.

THE APPEAL SHE HEARD

We get this in verse 2. While she was asleep, with her heart awake, her lover came seeking her. He sought her and tried to restore the fellowship which had been broken. This is how the Lord comes to us when we are neglectful of Him. He appeals to us, and begs us to come back into fellowship with Himself. It was like this in Laodicea (Revelation 3:20). Notice concerning the appeal of the bridegroom to his bride, in verse 2:-

It was urgent – “knocking”.

It was affectionate – “Open to me, my sister, my darling, my dove…”

It was persuasive – “my head is drenched with dew, my hair with the dampness of the night”.

He hoped his love would constrain her. Our Heavenly Bridegroom comes to us in this way – knocking through the voice of the preacher, through His Word, through circumstances; speaking to us in so many ways, with His loving appeal to us to come back into close communion and fellowship with Himself. What did the bride do? Did she get up to greet her bridegroom? No!

THE EXCUSE SHE GAVE

We get this in verse 3. It seems as though she was so drowsy that she said in effect, ‘I’ve retired to rest. I can’t get up – even for you!’ What a sad condition to get into, and yet it is so easy to get like this and to make excuses – look up Luke 14:18. So the bride stayed there asleep? Yes, but not for long!

THE RECOVERY SHE SOUGHT

We get this in verses 4 and 5. A marvelous thing happened. Notice what the bridegroom did, in verse 4. In his endeavors and longing to be united with his bride he tried the door, only to find it was locked; so he put his hand through the keyhole. She saw this, but she did not at once rise to unbolt the door and let him in, and while she delayed, and because he would not force an entrance, he left. She was then overcome with contrition and sorrow, and she rose up to open the door. It seems from verse 5 that she hesitated because she wanted to anoint herself with ointments, and while she ministered to herself instead of to him, he withdrew and left. Has God ever spoken to you so clearly that you have known His voice and His will, but you have delayed? And then the impression left you completely. Delays can be dangerous.

THE MISERY SHE ENDURED

We get this in verse 6, where we have the picture of a soul out of touch with the Lord. Notice the marks of such a person:-

Her fellowship was broken – “I opened…but my lover had left…” What a sad, sad experience! Is it yours?

Her prayer was unanswered – “I called him, but he did not answer…” Look up and compare Psalm 66:18.

Her testimony was lost – look at verse 7. When she went out of doors, the watchmen thought she was a sinful woman because she was out on the streets at night. They took away her veil, the greatest indignity that could be afforded to an oriental lady.

Thus, the “sister”, the “darling”, the “dove”, the “flawless” one in verse 2 had completely lost her testimony before men. This must always be so when we are out of touch with the Lord. So what did she do?

THE APPEAL SHE MADE

We get this in verse 8. She loved her lover so much that she felt sick on account of his absence. She could not live without him, so she turned to the daughters of Jerusalem and asked their help, and this help was given, for although the passage ends here it is evident that full fellowship was quickly restored. We can therefore conclude our study by thinking of this last point.

THE BLISS SHE KNEW

Her lover came to her, and she and he were together in the closest bonds of love and fellowship, without a shadow between them. And that is how it should be; that is the only happy place, the place of lasting satisfaction and joy – joy not only for us, but joy for our Bridegroom also.

LEANING ON OUR BELOVED

Key-verse: “Who is this coming up from the desert leaning on her lover?” (Song of Songs 8:5-7)

The section of scripture we are to study begins with an arresting question, which was evidently asked by the daughters of Jerusalem as they saw the radiant and happy bride passing by and leaning on the arm of her beloved bridegroom. The question presents to us, with the words that follow, a beautiful picture of the present position of the believer in relation to the Lord and of some of the great blessings which the believer possesses in the Lord. Let us unfold the passage in the following way:-

“WHO IS THIS?” – She is the Bride.

It is the bride who is referred to, and she represents the Bride of Christ, the Church, and the individual believer. In the New Testament the Church is spoken of as a Building (Ephesians 2:22); as the Body of Christ (Ephesians 1:23); as the Brotherhood of believers (Ephesians 2:19); and as the Bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:23-27). The daughters of Jerusalem said, “Who is this?” – As if to suggest that the bride was something of a mystery to them. That is exactly what the Church is to the uninitiated – a ‘mystery’ which had been hidden from the ages but which was revealed to Paul, and through Paul to the saints – look up and compare Ephesians 1:9; 3:3,4,9; and Colossians 1:26-27. What a mystery, what an enigma, the Christian is to the unbeliever (1 Corinthians 2:14). The unconverted certainly cannot understand the converted (2 Corinthians 5:17). What strange people Christians are! – they love singing hymns rather than the empty songs of the world – look up Psalm 40:1-3; they love a prayer meeting more than a dance -–look up Acts 4:23-24; and they are living more for the world to come than for this present world (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).

“WHO IS THIS?” – She is the Bride who is coming up from the wilderness.

From Deuteronomy 32:10-11 we learn that the Jewish ‘church’ came up out of the wilderness in a very literal sense: from a “barren and howling waste” (Deuteronomy 32:10); from a “desert waste” (Joel 2:3 and 3:19); from a wilderness in which they found grace (Jeremiah 31:2). But, the Church of Christ was also raised up from a desolate wilderness condition by divine grace (Galatians 4:27). As individual believers, as members of Christ’s Church, we have been brought out of the wilderness of sin, shame and separation and into a place of deliverance, honor and security in the arms of our Lover – look up Ephesians 2:1-6 and 12-22. Moreover, we are still coming ‘up from the wilderness’ as we travel towards our heavenly Home in the safe care and keeping of our Lover.

“WHO IS THIS?” – She is the Bride coming up from the wilderness, leaning (on her Lover).

She comes up leaning! And how significant is this indication of the bride’s posture, for in the process and experience of salvation, of sanctification and of service our attitude as the Bride, as individual believers, must ever be one of leaning upon our Lover, our heavenly Bridegroom. Why did she lean, and what did her leaning indicate?

She was weak in herself – look up 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

She believed he could and would support her – look up Jude 24.

The journey was long and arduous – look up Acts 21:1-16!

She needed his wisdom – (James 1:5); she needed him to guide her (Proverbs 3:6); she needed his provision (Philippians 4:19); and she needed his protection (Deuteronomy 33:27).

In the Old Testament we are told to trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5); in the New Testament to believe on the Lord (Acts 16:31); in both cases the meaning is to “lean upon” Him.

“WHO IS THIS?” – She is the Bride coming up from the wilderness, leaning upon her Lover, because he loves her so much.

The whole message of the Song of Songs is the intense mutual love between the bridegroom and his bride. The bride mentions three indications of her bridegroom’s love:-

He had answered her cry for help (verse 5): “Under the apple tree I roused you…” When he was reclining restfully, she roused him with her cry and appeal; just as the Lord “listened” to us when we called upon Him – look up Psalm 34:4,6,15,17 and 18, and Psalm 116:1-2.

He had sealed her as his own (verse 6): “Place me like a seal over your heart”; just as our Bridegroom has sealed us for Himself (Ephesians 1:11-14).

He had upheld her with his strong arm (verse 6): “like a seal on your arm.” In Christ we are absolutely secure (John 10:27-29 and Romans 8:35-39).

“WHO IS THIS?” – She is the Bride coming up from the wilderness, leaning upon her Lover whom she loves so very much.

Why did she love him? Because he first loved her; and this is why we love our heavenly Bridegroom so much (1 John 4:19). In verses 6 and 7 the bride tells us three things about the wonderful love of the Lord which has been shed abroad in our heart (Romans 5:5); and about our love for Him:-

It is a love which cannot die (verse 6): it is “as strong as death”.

It is a jealous love (verse 6): it is jealous for the honor and glory of the one who is loved.

It is a victorious love (verse 7): it cannot be quenched by “many waters”, nor can it be drowned by “the floods”.

It is a love which cannot be bought, for to give all we have is not sufficient for us to purchase it – this is the meaning of the last part of verse 7.

Have you started the journey out of the wilderness by putting your trust in Christ? Are you coming up more and more out of the wilderness, and as you come up do you lean upon Him for your every need to be supplied? Is He really your Lover– not only because He loves you, but because you love Him so much? As you conclude this study, meditate upon the words recorded in John 21:15-17.

LOOKING FOR THE BRIDEGROOM’S RETURN

Key-verse: “Come away, my lover, and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the spice-laden mountains” (Song of Songs 8:14)

It is surely a very significant thing that in the Song of Songs, which portrays Christ as the heavenly Bridegroom and the Church as His Bride, the closing verse links up with the glorious truth of the Second Advent. The Bible ends in exactly the same way (Revelation 22:20) – “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” This is the cry of the waiting Bride for her Bridegroom. This is what the bride of old said, “Come away, my lover, and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the spice-laden mountains.” The rendering of this in the Amplified Bible reads like this:-

“(Joyfully the radiant bride turned to him, the one altogether lovely, the chief among ten thousand to her soul, and with unconcealed eagerness to begin her life of sweet companionship with him, she answered), Make haste, my beloved, and come quickly, like a gazelle or a young hart (and take me to our waiting home) upon the mountains of spices!”

In this beautiful rendering we have a picture of the Bridegroom, the One who promised that He would come and receive us to Himself (John 14:1-3); whose coming the angels confirmed (Acts 1:9-11); and whose coming the apostle described (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18); and we have also a picture of the Bride, the Church, composed as it is of each individual believer. Let us look at these two pictures

HOW THE BRIDEGROOM IS DESCRIBED

What are we told about the One to whom we belong?

He is Altogether Lovely. He is described as “the One altogether lovely”, and of course these words can only refer to the Lord Jesus. Upon every human life there are the stains of sin, but He is “holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners” (Hebrews 7:26), and how altogether lovely He, our Blessed Lord, is! This is the One who is coming for us.

He is Outstanding among ten thousand. The bride joyfully acclaims Him as “outstanding among ten thousand” to her soul. This is a figurative way of saying that if you compare Jesus with ten thousand others, or any number of others, He comes first (Colossians 1:18). Actually we should not compare Him with others, for He stands alone. He is unique. He is “both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36).

He is the Lover. The bride describes him as “my lover”, and repeatedly she speaks of him in this way in this Book. But this is not only the Church’s estimate of her Lord, it is what our Father in Heaven thinks of His well-beloved Son (Matthew 3:17, at His baptism; and Matthew 17:5, at His transfiguration). Do we really love our Lord Jesus like this? Is He our “Lover”?

He is preparing a Home for His Bride. She cries, ‘Make haste…and come away…and take me to our waiting home.’ So there is a Home over there! Of course there is, for Jesus spoke about it (John 14:2). Our Lord is now on the “spice-laden mountains”, and He is preparing the home for His beloved ones. He is there as our Advocate (1 John 2:1); as our Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16); as our Intercessor (Hebrews 7:25); and all the time He is preparing our Heavenly Home.

He is soon coming to take us to His Home and ours. The bride cries, ‘Make haste…and take me to our waiting home on the spice-laden mountains!’ In John 14:3 we have our Lord’s promise that having prepared our home He will come again and receive us unto Himself, that we may dwell there with Him, and this coming may take place quite soon. Just think of it! – ‘A moment more, and I may be caught up in glory, Lord, with you!’

Here, then, is the picture of the Bridegroom. He is altogether lovely, He is the outstanding one among ten thousand, He is the Beloved One, He is preparing a home for all who love and belong to Him, and He is soon coming to take them to that heavenly Home. Now see the picture of the waiting bride.

HOW THE BRIDE IS DESCRIBED

What are we told about the bride? (And remember the Bride is the Church, which is composed of individual believers).

Her overflowing joy. First, we are told that as she waited for her lord she waited “joyfully”, and this should be the experience of each one who is waiting for the Lord Jesus to come again. We should be filled with the joy that comes through sins forgiven (1 John 2:12); through humble obedience to our Lord (Acts 13:52); and through the knowledge that our names are written in Heaven (Luke 10:20). Are we joyful as we anticipate His return? – look up 1 Peter 1:8, and compare the prophetic word in Isaiah 35:10!

Her radiant character. We read, “Joyfully the radiant bride turned to him…” This radiance refers to the beauty of holiness which characterized her. Through faith in Christ, righteousness has been imputed to us, but it has also been imparted to us (Ephesians 5:25-27). As we wait for our Lord to come we should be living separated and holy lives (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).

Her deep longing. We are told that she waited for her bridegroom “with unconcealed eagerness to begin her life of sweet companionship with him.” How she longed for him to return! How eager she was, and therefore how ready she made herself to meet with him! If we are filled with such eagerness we shall seek to be ready to meet our Bridegroom without shame (1 John 2:28).

Her personal testimony. She speaks of her bridegroom as “my lover”, and literally this should read “my best beloved”, for no-one else at all comes into the picture. He alone fills her heart. Do we acknowledge our Lord thus and speak of Him in this way? Is His name upon our lips as we go to others to testify? (Acts 8:4, and compare Acts 20:18-21).

Her earnest prayer. Her cry is, “Come away, my lover, and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the spice-laden mountains.” She prayed for him to come quickly in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye; and that is how the Lord will come (Matthew 24:27, 36 and 44 and Hebrews 10:35-37). As she thought of the young gazelles swiftly moving across the hills, she prayed that her lord would come in the same way to claim his waiting bride.

What a tremendous moment that will be when He, our best Lover, comes and receives us to Himself! “Even so, come, Lord Jesus!”

FATHER’S LETTER TO HIS SON

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 1:1-7)

I love the writer Paul let’s check what Paul’s first letter to Timothy. It is quite literally “a father’s letter to his son”, for the father is Paul the Apostle and his son (in the faith) is Timothy. Notice four things about this letter which was written about AD 63:-

THE WRITER

Notice how the writer describes himself in verse 1:-

He gives his name – “Paul”. In the first century the writer of a letter began with his own name and then followed it with the name of the recipient and with some form of greeting. Thus Paul, who wrote this letter, began it with his name. “Saul” was his Hebrew name (Philippians 3:5), but “Paul” (Latin: Paulus) was his Gentile name (Acts 13:9).

He states his office – “an apostle of Christ Jesus”. Here, by the use of the word “apostle” (Greek: Apostol’s), Paul tells us that he was one who had been sent forth, for an apostle is a “sent one”, an envoy, an ambassador. But Paul was not alone in this, for every Christian is sent (2 Corinthians 5:20). Paul was available to the Lord for whatever He wanted. Are we? But what was Paul’s authority for saying that he was an apostle?

He declares his authority – “by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus”. Paul was authorized by the Lord Himself. He was an apostle by royal command. Note: he was not an apostle because he chose, or wanted, or felt qualified to be one, but because God had chosen him (Acts 9:15), and had given him a command which he had obeyed – look up Acts 26:19.

Notice, however, that in verse 1 Paul not only describes himself but he also describes his Lord, the One who had commanded him to be an apostle:-

He gives His titles. What are they? – “Christ…Jesus.” These are significant for they tell us what our Lord is to His own. What is He? He is Jesus, the Savior who died for His people (Matthew 1:21); He is Christ, the Sanctifier who lives in His people (Colossians 1:27); and He is also Lord, the Sovereign who reigns over His people (Acts 10:36). Does He bear these relationships to you?

He states His mission. The apostle speaks of the Lord Jesus as “our Savior”, and this emphasizes the supreme reason for His coming into this world – compare 1 Timothy 1:15 with Luke 1:46-47 and Acts 4:12.

He declares His victory. He describes Him as “our hope”, and this declares the final victory of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. No unbeliever has any hope (Ephesians 2:12); but because Christ has conquered sin, death and Hell and has opened the kingdom of Heaven, He becomes the “hope” of every believer.

THE RECIPIENT

Verse 2 tells us that Timothy was the recipient of this letter. Notice how Paul describes him:-

He gives his name – “Timothy”. Timothy was Paul’s greatest friend and companion in his labors, and wherever the apostle speaks of him it is with affection. Paul was about thirty years older than Timothy. What would account for this special affection? See how Paul goes on to speak of him:-

He states his relationship – “my true son in the faith”. Timothy was Paul’s spiritual son, for he had been converted as a lad when Paul had visited Lustra, his home town (Acts 16:1-3); and later on Timothy accompanied Paul on his visits to Ephesus, Athens, Antioch, Philippi and Rome – what an experience he had! Now Paul refers to a special work he had to do:-

He declares his task – “stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines.” The Church at Ephesus was in great danger. Error was creeping in, and thus Paul wrote to Timothy and told him to stay on the job and to guard the work of God.

THE GREETING

This is contained in the last part of verse 2. Paul always began his letters with a word of affectionate greeting, and here he desired and prayed that young Timothy might enjoy three great blessings:-

Grace. Grace is “the undeserved favor of God to the guilty sinner, removing the guilt of his past sins and relieving him of deserved punishment” – look up Ephesians 2:8-10 and Titus 2:11. Here, however, Paul is wishing for Timothy that God will give him all necessary aid for every situation of need – look up 2 Corinthians 12:9 and 2 Corinthians 9:8.

Mercy. Mercy is “the spontaneous compassion of God for the miserable and distressed, freeing the sinner from the consequent misery of his sins.” Here, however, Paul is praying for Timothy and wishing him that God will secure and protect him in every situation of attack (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Peace. Peace is “the state of salvation which results from God’s grace and mercy, speaking of the harmony which results from the removal of discord which sin has produced” (Romans 5:1). Here, however, Paul is wanting Timothy to experience Isaiah 26:3; John 14:27; and Philippians 4:7.

THE PURPOSE

Why did Paul write to Timothy? The letter was intended to help Timothy to discharge his responsibility to the Lord in his work in the Church at Ephesus. Paul gives him three exhortations, mentioned in verses 3, 4, 18, 19 and 20. These are:-

To Stand Firm. We get this in verse 3, where the apostle says to Timothy, “Stay in Ephesus”. What he means is – stay put! When the way is difficult it is the easiest thing for the servant of God to run away from doing the will of God – as Jonah did (Jonah 1:1-3). Have you ever felt like giving up? – look up Galatians 6:9, and compare 1 Corinthians 15:58.

To Speak Up. We get this in verse 3, where Paul says, “Command certain men not to teach false doctrines.” This was a most difficult thing for young Timothy to do. It is never easy to expose error or to warn against heresy. When we do so today we are told to be tolerant and not to be critical – but look up Jude 3.

To Take Care. Verse 4 contains the warning that Timothy needed, for how easy it is for the minister of Christ to get taken up with side issues and dubious teachings – cults, isms, and strange theories – they are endless! We need to preserve the balance of truth, and to take care that we do not substitute the opinions of men for the clear revelation of God.

We conclude this first study with a word of warning – look up 1 Corinthians 10:12; and a gracious word of encouragement - 1 Corinthians 10:13.

Chapter4

AN AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL PEN-PICTURE

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 1:8-17)

In 1 Timothy 1:12-17 the Apostle Paul gives us a piece of spiritual biography. What he says is in the form of a personal testimony, and the key to the passage is Paul’s thanksgiving which he begins in verse 12. Literally the words might read, ‘I am deeply grateful to Christ Jesus our Lord…’ Whenever Paul thought of all that the Lord had done for him he was overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and deep thanksgiving. He never forgot the wonder of it all. Whenever he thought of the saving miracle that God wrought in him, his heart was thrilled. The trouble with many Christians today is that they have lost the wonder of all that the Lord has done for them. They have grown used to the idea of being saved, and in consequence they have grown cold and careless. Why was it that Paul was so thankful to his Lord? What does the apostle say by way of personal testimony in his expression of thanksgiving? Notice these five things:-

“I thank the Lord Jesus that He saved me, although I was a wretched sinner.”

In verse 13 we have a vivid description of Paul’s past life before he became a Christian. Here he tells us of three outstanding ways in which he sinned against the Lord. Before God saved him:-

He was a blasphemer. This is a very strong word. It means that he was a profane person and that he simply delighted in ridiculing the Name of Christ.

He was a persecutor. He not only blasphemed the Name of Christ but he rounded up Christ’s people and persecuted them “mercilessly” – compare Acts 9:1, 4 and 5; 22:4 and 7; 26:10; Galatians 1:13; 1 Thessalonians 2:14; and 2 Thessalonians 1:4. In persecuting the Christians he also persecuted Christ.

He was violent. This means that he was a ringleader among the enemies of Christ and he actually damaged the cause of Christ.

This was the man who was saved by the Lord, a man who describes himself as “the chief of sinners” (verse 15, KJV). The thing that filled Paul with deep thanksgiving was the fact that in spite of his wickedness the Lord had had mercy on him and had saved him (verse 13). And does not this same glorious truth fill our hearts with gratitude? If we think we are less sinful than Paul was we had better look up Jeremiah 17:9. How wonderful that the Savior should save us, in spite of our sin! Thank God for it!

“I thank the Lord Jesus Christ that He saved me completely, without my own efforts and trying.”

How was Paul saved? What made him a Christian? How did he become a converted man? Was it by turning over a new leaf or by resolving to be better? No! – Look at verse 13, where he tells us that he was shown mercy. The word here in the Greek is passive, and quite literally it reads, “I was mercies”. The mercy given was not bestowed in response to any act of his own. He was altogether undeserving and unworthy, but God had mercy upon him. The same truth is stated in verse 14, and of course this is the only way of salvation (Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5). Christ does the saving from start to finish – see verse 15. How grateful we should be that our salvation is not by works, by human merit, by prayers, nor by pilgrimages! We are saved by Christ Himself, quite apart from any effort or supposed merit that we might have.

“I thank the Lord Jesus Christ that He entrusted me with the preaching of the Gospel.”

Paul tells us this in verse 11, where he speaks of having had the Gospel entrusted to him, and in verse 12, which literally means, “He trusted me enough to appoint me His minister.” Not only had the Lord forgiven and saved Paul, but He had actually made him His servant, His minister, His representative, His ambassador; and of course the personal application of this great truth is that the same Lord has put us in trust with the Gospel. We have been trusted by Christ with the holy task of making Him known to others. Are we discharging our responsibility? Are we seeking to make Christ known? Think of it: He represents us in Heaven, but we are to represent Him down here on the earth! He has entrusted us with the preaching of the gospel of redeeming grace.

“I thank the Lord Jesus Christ that He enables me, strengthens me and sustains me for and in every holy task.”

Look at verse 12, and notice the words, “Who has given me strength”. This truth is illustrated throughout the Bible. He called Moses to do a task, but He promised to be with him to strengthen and enable him (Exodus 3:7-12); He called Joshua to work for Him, but He also promised to be with him, to enable him and empower him (Joshua 1:1-7); the same was true of Gideon (Judges 6:11-14); and compare Matthew 28:19,20 where He not only says, “Go…” but “Surely…”; and Acts 1:8, where He tells us we are to be His witnesses, but only after the Holy Spirit has come upon us. Thus, the Apostle Paul thanked God that he was equal for any and every task. What he really says in verse 12 is – Philippians 4:13; 2 Corinthians 12:9; and what was true for Paul is true for us, for our preaching, praying, teaching, visiting, testifying and daily living. This is what Paul meant when he said in another place – look up Acts 26:22. Thank God, He not only commissions us but He empowers us!

“I thank the Lord Jesus Christ that He can do for others what He has done for me.”

Paul tells us this in verse 16, where he says he was an ‘example’ of what Christ can do in saving people. If we ask the question, ‘How does Christ’s salvation save us?’ we answer, ‘Look at Paul and see for yourself.’ The word “example” in verse 16 has the idea of ‘an artist’s outline sketch, an example of what’s to follow.’ It was just like that with Paul. When we look at him we see what God can do with a man when He saves him by His grace; so, as C. H. Spurgeon once said, ‘The idea that Paul’s conversion was exceptional is flatly contradicted here.’ Paul’s conversion was not exceptional; his was only the first of many similar conversions. What God did for Paul He can do for you, for all; so do not despair, and above all recapture and keep fresh the wonder of God’s saving grace in your life.

THE GOSPEL IN MINIATURE

(Scripture Portion: Luke 2:1-15)

1 Timothy 1:15 as containing “the very soul of the Gospel.” This is the theme of this study, and here is God’s message for all people; and it is God’s message for the days in which we are living. No-one will question that they are days of need. In every direction it is apparent – internationally, nationally, morally, spiritually and individually. What wonderful but terrible days they are! Has God anything to say to this age and generation? Is there any word from the Lord? Yes, God’s word for this age and time is that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” The message is 2000 years old and yet it is up-to-date, appropriate and applicable, and it does not need changing; it is the very message that we all need. Notice that the apostle tells us three things about God’s message:-

What God says is Authentic. He says, “Here is a trustworthy saying…” It is a reliable saying, it is absolutely true and you can depend upon it. Now here is something really worth knowing – that God has given us a word which we can rely upon. We need have no doubts about it. There are many ‘sayings’ that are false, but here is something that is reliable.

What God says is Acceptable. Paul says it “deserves full acceptance”. Why is this? There are two main reasons: first of all, because it is Divine in its origin. This is what God says. This is a message that God declares. But, second, because it is Good News, and good news is always acceptable. The Devil has tried to blind the minds of men and women to believe that the Gospel is bad news, but he is a liar.

What God says is Adaptable. Paul says, it “deserves full acceptance”. We are reminded of the message of the angels at the birth of Christ – look up Luke 2:10. This message of God will meet the needs of all people. Although the people of the nations are running after other gods there is only one true God and Lord; Jesus is “the desired of all nations” – look up Haggai 2:7.

These are the three things we are told about God’s message; but what is God’s message, and what does He say to us? He says that, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” What God says is that 2000 years ago He sent His own Son into this world for the express purpose of saving sinful men and women (1 Timothy 1:15). Notice, then, what we are told about the coming of Christ to save sinners:-

THE CERTAINTY OF HIS COMING

This is indicated in the words “Christ Jesus came…” That is, He did actually come. Is there any need to emphasize this fact? Not really, because there are four conclusive proofs that Christ came: (1) there are all the prophecies of the Old Testament which pointed forward to His coming, all of which were literally fulfilled when He came; (2) there is the testimony of both secular and religious history; (3) our calendars bear the date which testifies to the coming of Christ; and (4) millions of people have been able to say, “We know also that the Son of God has come” (1 John 5:20). Two thousand years ago He really came. The fact of His coming is absolutely certain. But how did He come?

THE CHARACTER OF HIS COMING

He “came into the world…” – but how? Most of us know the story very well: the story of the annunciation (Luke 1:26-35); and the story of the birth at Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-14). John tells us how He came in language that is theological but explicit (John 1:14); and Paul tells us also (Galatians 4:4). These words of scripture refer to the incarnation of our Lord, to that great act of God when Christ Jesus, the eternal Son of God, stepped down from the throne of His glory and became man and lived among us. This is the character of His coming.

THE COST OF HIS COMING

Did it cost Him anything to come into this world? The following words in 1 Timothy 1:15 tell us how much it cost Him:-

The word “came”. Where did He come from? He came from the glory of Heaven, from the bosom of the Father – look up 2 Corinthians 8:9.

He came “into the world”. He was God’s first missionary. He came “out of the ivory palaces into this world of sin”. Think of it – the Creator came into the world He had created, and He came as a little baby! Think of the physical limitation of this. God…in a human body. And think of the fearful humiliation of it. Think of the reception He received (John 1:11). Think of His trial…and of Calvary…

He came and bore the names “Christ Jesus”. This means that He who came to be the Savior of the world was the One whom God anointed to undertake this holy task.

THE CONSTRAINT OF HIS COMING

Why did He come? What made Him come? What was His purpose in coming from Heaven to earth? The answer is – “to save sinners”. Jesus came and died upon the Cross of Calvary and He rose again in order to save us from sin, death and Hell, and to take us ultimately to Heaven and to present us faultless… (Jude 24). He did not come primarily to educate or reform us, to put before us a code of ethics or simply to be our hero or our leader, but He came to save us, because the one thing above all else that sinners need is to be saved. He came to save all kinds of sinners (Matthew 9:13); sinners like Paul (the end of 1 Timothy 1:15), and compare verse 13 with verses 9 and 10; sinners like John Newton and John Bunyan; sinners like you and me, for none are too bad to come to Him. How glorious are the words – look up Luke 15:1-2! He still receives sinners!

THE CHALLENGE OF HIS COMING

Has He saved you? The certainty, the character, the cost and the constraint of His coming constitute a challenge. Jesus came to save sinners. Are you saved? Have you accepted Him as your personal Savior? If not, will you do so, and will you rejoice in the glorious truth of 1 Timothy 1:15, which Dry R. F. Weymouth renders, “True is the saying, and deserving of universal acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; among whom I am foremost.”

PAUL’S CONVERSION:

(Scripture Portion: Acts 9:1-22)

“What God can do with a man”, for in 1 Timothy 1:16 Paul speaks of his conversion as “an example for those who would believe on him…” The word ‘example’ is a very interesting one. The Greek word conveys the idea of a pencil sketch which an artist will draw before he settles down to produce his masterpiece, or a ‘first proof’ which a printer will produce before he prints in quantity. Thus we see that Paul’s conversion was an example of what God accomplishes in the lives of all who are saved by His grace, and therefore all conversions are similar to his conversion. Consider, then, seven respects in which Paul was a model convert.

Paul’s was a model conversion in the factors that led up to it.

In the beginning of Acts 9 we have the record of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, and immediately we discover that something was going on in Saul’s conscience before the Lord met him on the Damascus road. We know this by our Lord’s words to Saul, “It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks” (AV). The late Dry Campbell Morgan has suggested that these words mean, ‘Saul, there are forces playing about you that would drive you in one direction, and you are kicking against them.’ What were these forces? One was the testimony of Stephen, who became the first Christian martyr and was radiant in his life and mighty in his words – compare Acts 6:15 and Acts 7:58-60. Saul was undoubtedly challenged and convicted by the life and witness of Stephen; and in every conversion there are such factors at work which God uses in preparation for the moment when He will break into the soul of the one whom He saves by His grace.

Paul’s was a model conversion in its suddenness.

To say that Paul’s conversion was sudden is not to contradict the thought expounded under our first heading. If we read the record we cannot fail to be convinced that Paul’s conversion was sudden. The actual moment when the Lord apprehended him and when he was brought as a humble penitent to the feet of the Savior took place in a moment of time. One moment he was an enemy, and the next he was an enquirer with a broken and a contrite heart and a longing to do the will of the Risen Lord. In this sense every conversion is sudden. There is an actual, specific, precise moment when we are born again (John 3:5); when we pass from death to life (John 5:24); when we are translated out of Satan’s kingdom into the kingdom of God’s dear Son (Colossians 1:13); and when we enter into an experience of the salvation that is in Christ Jesus. We do not always know the exact moment of our conversion, any more than we remember when we were born into this world, but if we are converted there must have been such a moment. Our conversion took place suddenly.

Paul’s was a model conversion in that it was all the work of God.

This truth is well illustrated in Acts 9. God did the work of saving Paul from start to finish, and God is always the Author and the Finisher of salvation. The sovereignty of God in the conversion of sinners is clearly taught throughout Scripture. This is what Jonah meant when he said – Jonah 2:9 (last five words); what Paul meant when he wrote – Ephesians 2:8-10. If we have been saved by the grace of God it is all the Lord’s work. The Father in love planned our salvation; the Lord Jesus in His death purchased our salvation; and the Holy Spirit in His present ministry conveyed this salvation (Philippians 1:6).

Paul’s was a model conversion in that it was part of a Divine plan.

This truth is emphasized in Acts 9:10-16, and especially in verses 15-16. The Lord had a plan for this man’s life, and with his conversion that plan began to unfold. God had chosen him (verse 15); but when did God choose him? We find the answer in Ephesians 1:3-4, and all this is true in relation to every conversion. God’s plan for Paul was that he should become the apostle to the Gentiles; and God has a plan for your life and mine. It should therefore be our chief concern to discover and to do the will of God.

Paul’s was a model conversion in that it related to others being saved.

This was true not only in a general sense but in a particular sense and the truth is clearly brought out in our key verse (1 Timothy 1:16), where the apostle says that he was converted “as an example for those who would believe on him…” Paul’s conversion had an immediate relation to the conversion of many more. What a challenging thought this is, for it is also true of every Christian! When God saved us it was with a view to the salvation of others, others in our family, with whom you work, others whose lives we touch, to whom we would minister the Word of God. What relation has your conversion already had to the conversion of other people?

Paul’s was a model conversion in its thoroughness.

Did you ever see a more radical change wrought in any man? Read again Acts 9:1-18 and marvel at the fact that this persecutor and enemy and leader of the anti-Christian group was suddenly and completely changed into a humble, enquiring, penitent follower and an obedient servant of the Lord. He was completely transformed – a very good illustration of 2 Corinthians 5:17. This is God’s pattern for all conversions. Are you completely different since you were converted?

Paul’s was a model conversion in the evidences of its reality.

When a man is truly converted certain things always happen. There are certain marks which show the reality of his conversion. This was true of Saul of Tarsus. What were these marks? Notice a few of them:-

He met with the Lord and heard His voice (Acts 9:4-6)...

He was filled with a longing to obey the Lord and to do His will (Acts 9:6).

He began to pray (Acts 9:11).

He was baptized (Acts 9:18).

He united in fellowship with God’s people (Acts 9:19).

He began to testify powerfully (Acts 9:20).

He grew in grace (Acts 9:22).

HYMENAEUS AND ALEXANDER

(Scripture Portions: 1 Timothy 1:18-20; 2 Timothy 2:15-19)

The verses upon which this study is based are very solemn – 1 Timothy 1:18-20. Hymeneals and Alexander were two prominent men in the Church at Ephesus, who undoubtedly were Christians but who had become seriously sidetracked by the Enemy. They had taken in and propagated false teaching, and as the result of this the apostle had to hand them over to Satan in order to teach them not to blaspheme. The purpose was to restore them; it was that they might be taught, that they might be disciplined, and this seems to indicate that they were Christians who had been led astray and who needed to be disciplined by the Lord. When Christians willfully persist in disobeying the Lord there is need for discipline, and sometimes this discipline is very severe. This reference to Hymeneals and Alexander brings a warning to us all. What are the lessons that we should learn from these two men?

THE TERRIBLE DANGER OF SPIRITUAL RELAPSE THAT FACES EVERY CHRISTIAN

We assume that these two men, and the others whom they had led astray (note the word ‘some’ in verse 19), were once devoted Christians, regularly attending Church and witnessing to the grace of the Lord. Gradually they became slack, their consciences became blunted, and they grew careless and lost out spiritually. Then they embraced false teaching, with what the New Testament calls heresy. This could happen to any one of us, for the Devil is still active and he is constantly seeking to trip up Christians and to upset God’s work. We know this because as we look around in the Church today we see many casualties. The Apostle Paul had this in mind when he wrote 1 Corinthians 9:27. The reference here, however, is not to the dangers of false teaching but to the danger of false living – and can the two be separated? Paul was not afraid of being lost, but he was afraid of being rendered useless to the Lord for further service. All this should make us give earnest heed to 1 Corinthians 10:12 – but never read verse 12 without also reading verse 13. There is no need for any one of us to fall or to fail – look up Jude 24.

THE DREADFUL INFLUENCE OF ONE DISOBEDIENT CHRISTIAN

We note two things here: firstly Hymeneals and Alexander were not the only false teachers in the Church. Why, then, were they judged for their grievous sin? Surely because they were the leaders in this evil work. Secondly, Hymeneals’ name is placed first. Why? Because he was the ringleader in this false teaching. This comes out in 2 Timothy 2:17-18. How solemn it was that Hymeneals was not only guilty of false teaching but he was responsible for destroying “the faith of some”. No wonder stern measures were taken to remove these men from the Church. It is often better for a Church when some people leave – look up Romans 16:17.

THE SERIOUS NATURE AND DAMAGING EFFECT OF FALSE TEACHING IN THE CHURCH

In 1 Timothy 1:20 Paul calls it “blasphemy”. Why did he use such a strong word? Because their false teaching was a reproach upon the Divine character and the revealed truth of God. But notice in 2 Timothy 2:17-18 that the apostle says that false teaching spreads “like gangrene”. J.B. Phillips very expressively transliterates this by saying that these false teachers “are as dangerous as blood poisoning to the blood and spread like sepsis from a wound”. False teaching in the Church is like a gangrene or a malignant tumor in the body. It eats away the healthy tissue, it spreads and it eventually kills. We need to be awake to this danger in our day; but most of us are not awake, we are asleep.

THE CLOSE CONNECTION THERE IS BETWEEN WHAT WE BELIEVE AND HOW WE BEHAVE

The case of Hymeneals and Alexander shows us that there is an inseparable connection between faith and morals. In 1 Timothy 1:18-20 there is a striking sequence. First, these men “put away a good conscience”; then, they “shipwrecked their faith”; then, they lived lives that were careless and undisciplined. If we stifle conscience our faith will be affected; and then our lives will be affected. Every moral breakdown leads from a breakdown of faith; and every breakdown of faith leads from a conscience that has been dulled. How very important it is to keep a clear conscience – look up Acts 24:16.

THE JUDGMENT OF THE LORD MUST COME UPON CHRISTIANS WHO LIVE CARELESSLY AND WHO REFUSE CORRECTION

The judgment that came upon these two men is mentioned in 1 Timothy 1:20. They were “handed over to Satan”. What do these words mean?

They may refer to the Jewish practice of excommunication. According to synagogue practice, if a man was an evildoer he was first rebuked. If that proved ineffective he was banished from the synagogue for thirty days. If that failed to produce repentance he was then put outside for good.

Paul may have meant that he had handed them over to Satan’s territory – the world, as distinct from the Church.

Perhaps it means that Paul had the power to call down physical chastisement upon these two, as suggested by 1 Corinthians 5:5. Satan was held to be responsible for human suffering – compare 2 Corinthians 12:7.

Does such a thing happen today? Do Christians ever suffer physically because of sin? – Look up 1 Corinthians 11:29-30. Christians in the Church at Corinth had been coming to the Lord’s Table with sin in their lives that had not been judged. Because of this some of them had suffered physical sickness and others had died. This was the Lord’s judgment upon them. It was His chastening – look up Hebrews 12:6-11; and why did He chasten them? – The last phrase in 1 Corinthians 5:5 gives us the answer. Hymeneals and Alexander were chastened of the Lord “to be taught not to blaspheme” (1 Timothy 1:20), and that their spirits might “be saved on the day of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 5:5). Paul hoped and prayed that as a result of the severe discipline imposed upon these two men they might both be brought back into full fellowship with the Lord and with His people.

Let us cultivate a tender conscience, a sensitivity to the voice of the Holy Spirit, a firm and a growing faith, a deep understanding of God’s Word and a daily walk that in all respects is well-pleasing to Him.

Chapter5

HOW, WHEN AND WHERE TO PRAY

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 2:1-8)

In this study we are to have a lesson on prayer and our teacher is to be the great Apostle Paul himself. Probably there is no-one more qualified to be our teacher, for Paul was a man of prayer, he knew the power of prayer and he constantly exhorted others to pray. Here in this brief passage of scripture we are given some very valuable guidance on the teaching of how, when and where to pray, and there are five main lines of teaching embodied in these verses.

THE PRIORITY OF PRAYER

This is brought before us in verse 1 – “I urge then, first of all, that requests, intercession, prayers…be made…” Here is something which must be done first. Paul is telling Timothy that prayer is a priority and that it should always come first. It is the most important spiritual exercise in which we can engage. We often fail in that we put prayer second or third. Instead of making prayer fundamental we make it supplemental; we add it on if there is time left, and when we do this we are foolish and wrong. It is easy to crowd prayer out of our lives, and when we do this we suffer. It is also easy to crowd prayer out of our Church life and to put activities and service first – look up Acts 6:4.

THE PROCEDURE OF PRAYER

This is brought before us in verses 1 and 2. If we ask the question, how are we to pray? The apostle answers by emphasizing two things:-

The different ways in which we are to pray. Four ways are mentioned in verse 1 – “requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving” – and to these we might add others, such as adoration, confession, etc. Paul’s use of these four synonyms shows us that there are many aspects of prayer and many ways in which we can express ourselves in prayer. The word “requests” would seem to suggest specific petitions, as for example in Acts 12:5; the word “prayers” would suggest general petitions; the word “intercession” has in it the idea of praying for others; and we are always to come before the Lord with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6). We need not be anxious as to which particular way we should pray on any special occasion, for we have a wonderful Helper – look up Romans 8:26.

The different people for whom we are to pray. Verse 1 tells us we are to pray for “everyone”, and verse 2 instructs us to pray “for kings and all those in authority”. Verse 3 tells us that this is good and pleases God. These are given as examples or suggestions. We are, of course, to pray for all kinds of people, friends and enemies, rich and poor, good and bad, Christians and non-Christians, because the Gospel is for all – notice the repetition of the little word “all” in verses 2,4 and 6. Think how praying Christians can influence the course of history (Daniel 6:10). Do we pray for our Queen and for the leaders of the nations of the world?

THE PURPOSE OF PRAYER

This is brought before us in verse 2 – “that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” This is the result of right praying and a reason, therefore, why we should especially pray for those in authority over us. The two adjectives “peaceful” and “quiet” may be rendered “tranquil”, which refers to freedom from outward hostility, war, riots; and “calm”, which refers to inward peace (Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:7). It is not a selfish motive to pray that God will keep our land free from war, rebellion, terrorism and strife. These things can hinder the progress of the Gospel, though it is true that when He permits them He can use them for the spread of His Word.

THE PLACE OF PRAYER

One word in verse 8 indicates this – “everywhere”. The primary reference that Paul is making in this passage is that of the place of prayer in the services of the Church. The apostle is giving instructions regarding public worship, and he says that prayer is to be offered in every place where Christians gather together to worship God. But there is a larger application of this word “everywhere”, for a Christian can pray everywhere, and that means anywhere – by the river side (Acts 16:13), on the mountain top (Luke 6:12), or in a solitary place (Mark 1:35) – look up 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

THE PREREQUISITES OF PRAYER

What are the conditions of successful, effective prayer? They are indicated in verse 8, and there are three:-

There must be a reverent posture – “lift up holy hands”. These words refer to the custom that was prevalent among the Jews and among Christians to pray with hands uplifted and with the palms of the hands open towards Heaven (1 Kings 8:22; Psalm 134:2). Dry Maclaren says that this attitude meant, “I need. I desire. I expect.” The posture in prayer is important as it indicates the attitude of the soul. Other postures mentioned in scripture are standing (Genesis 18:22), hands lifted up (Luke 24:50), bowing down (Exodus 12:27), lifting the eyes towards Heaven (Acts 7:55), kneeling (Ephesians 3:14), face to the ground (Genesis 17:3) – and compare 1 Kings 18:42 with Luke 18:13.

There must be clean hands – “lift up holy hands”. This means hands that are not engaged in unholy practices. If a Christian filled in an Income Tax Return falsely he could not then pray with holy hands. When the hands are stained with unholy deeds they are not clean hands – compare Psalm 24:3-5 and Psalm 26:6.

There must be a pure heart – “lifting up holy hands...without anger…” This means “without resentment”. We must not pray with a wrong spirit (Psalm 51:10); and compare Matthew 5:23-24 and Mark 11:25 with Psalm 66:18.

How wonderfully explicit is this teaching that the apostle gives us on the way in which to pray effectively! May the Lord Himself be our teacher and may we be quick to learn His lessons – look up Luke 11:

TEN QUALIFICATIONS FOR LEADERSHIP

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 3:1-13)

It is not surprising that in this letter specific instructions are given concerning the kind of men who may hold positions of responsibility in the local Church. Paul was writing about Church leadership, as 1 Timothy 3:15 makes clear, and it is important that we secure the right leadership for God’s work. If the leaders are right the work will be blessed, but if the leaders are wrong the work will be hindered. God’s work is weak or strong according to the quality of those who are in positions of responsibility. If these things are true then not everyone is qualified to be in a position of leadership in spiritual work. What are the qualifications for leadership? What is God’s standard in this matter? In 1 Timothy 3:1-13 we are told about the qualifications for an “overseer” – verse 1, and a deacon – verses 8,10 and 12:-

A MAN WHO IS ABOVE REPROACH

Verse 2 says “An overseer…must be above reproach”. This does not mean ‘perfect’, otherwise there would be no overseers! Verse 7 explains that “he must have a good reputation with outsiders”. How important it is for a minister, a deacon, or any Church leader to have a clear testimony before the Church and the world – look up Romans 14:7!

A MAN OF UNQUESTIONED MORAL INTEGRITY

Verse 2 says, “An overseer…must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife…” Does this mean that a leader must be married only once? No. That he must not be a widower? No. That he must not be a polygamist? Yes. But it means more than this. It means that he must be a man of unquestioned morality, especially in regard to his relations with the opposite sex. There must be no immoral relationships of any kind. No-one whose marriage relationship is questionable, or whose attitude towards the opposite sex is careless should ever be given a position of responsibility in any part of God’s work.

A MAN OF CHRISTIAN GRACE AND SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE

Here we note the seven virtues or graces mentioned in verses 2 and 3:-

The word “temperate” (verse 2) means “disciplined”. Compare Ephesians 5:15.

The word “self-controlled” (verse 2) means living an orderly life.

The word “respectable” (verse 2) means “modest”.

The words “not given to drunkenness” (verse 3) mean literally “not one who lingers by the wine”. Paul does not say a leader must be a total abstainer, because wine was extensively used in those days, but he must be temperate. Today it is essential for all leaders to be men of firm convictions and of Christ-glorifying habits with regard to the matter of alcohol.

The words “not violent” (verse 3) mean “not quarrelsome or contentious”, a person who is very easily upset and who easily loses his temper.

The word “gentle” (verse 3) means “kind”, “peaceful”.

The words “not quarrelsome” (verse 3) mean “not contentious”, “not a controversialist”.

A MAN WHO IS GENEROUS-HEARTED AND HOSPITABLE

Verse 2 – “hospitable”. In the early Church this had a very special significance (Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2). In those days Christians had to keep together, for they lived in a very hostile world. How necessary was the gift of hospitality! But a leader should not only have an open house but an open heart. He should be large-hearted, generous-hearted, like – look up 2 Timothy 1:16; and like Barnabas – look up Acts 9:26-27.

A MAN WHO IS ABLE TO TEACH

Verse 2 - “able to teach” – that is, an overseer or a pastor must have a gift in preaching and teaching and be able to feed the flock!

A MAN WITH A RIGHT ATTITUDE TO MONEY

Verse 3 says, “Not a lover of money”. A man’s character can often be judged by his attitude towards money and earthly possessions. Is he irrepressibly acquisitive? Has he a Judas-like attitude (look up John 12:6)? Is there any suspicion of sharp practice or dishonesty in his business affairs? – Then do not even consider him for a position of responsibility in the Church.

A MAN WHO MANAGES HIS OWN FAMILY WELL

Verses 4 and 5 make this very clear, and what a powerful argument the apostle gives in verse 5! If a man is unable to manage his own domestic affairs how can he be expected to manage the affairs of the Church? (Galatians 6:1).

A MAN WHO IS SPIRITUALLY TAUGHT AND MATURE

Notice verses 6, 9 and 10. In verse 6 we are told that a recent convert should not be given a position of responsibility. This could do harm to the convert and to the work of God. Leaders need to be spiritually strong and not too young. Verse 9 indicates that a leader must have a firm hold on the truths of the faith. Verse 10 says that leaders should first be tested so that their gifts and qualities may be assessed. Only spiritually mature men are qualified for leadership.

A MAN OF OBVIOUS HUMILITY

We underline the words in verse 6, “or he may become conceited”, as a separate qualification because of its importance. The leader must not become proud. The Devil fell through pride, and how easy it is for any one of us to fall in the same way! – Look up Micah 6:8; Matthew 18:4; Philippians 2:8; and 1 Peter 3:4 and 5:5-6.

A MAN WHO HAS THE RIGHT KIND OF WIFE

Notice carefully verse 11. A man’s wife can make him ineligible as an overseer or deacon. What kind of wife must a leader have? She must be: “worthy of respect, not a malicious talker, but temperate and trustworthy in everything.”

These are the ten qualifications for leadership, and this is not our standard, nor that of Paul, but it is God’s. What an incentive there is to faithfulness in verse 13! – Every faithful leader will be rewarded at the Judgment Seat of Christ.

THE CREED OF THE EARLY CHURCH

(Scripture Portions: 1 Timothy 3:14-16; Philippians 2:6-11)

The creed of the Church – 1 Timothy 3:16. It emphasizes some of the main doctrines of our faith, and it is not surprising that when Paul was warning Timothy of false teachings he inserted this basis of belief. It is helpful to us in a day when many Christians are untaught and are therefore not sure what they believe. Look at our key-verse and notice these preliminary truths:-

All Christian truth is a Divine revelation. The word ‘mystery’ tells us this. It does not mean that God’s truth is mysterious, but that it was hidden, or concealed, and that it has now been revealed – for a mystery is a revealed secret. (Look up and compare the six mysteries mentioned in the New Testament – Romans 11:25-26; 1 Corinthians 15:51-54; Ephesians 3:4-6 and 5:31-32; 2 Thessalonians 2:7; and 1 Timothy 3:16).

This Divine revelation is only understood by the initiated. In other words, the mystery only becomes revealed to us by the ministry of the Holy Spirit – compare Matthew 11:25 and 1 Corinthians 2:14.

This Divine revelation is the declaration of great historical facts concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. It is important to notice that our faith does not rest upon tradition or theories but upon the great acts of God declared in our key-verse.

This Divine revelation is a matter of certainty. When the apostle says, “beyond all question…” he means there is absolutely no doubt about it! J.B. Phillips renders it, “No-one can deny it.” It is solemn that some deny the great truths of our faith and certain portions of Scripture! – Look up Revelation 22:18-19.

This Divine revelation leads to godly living on the part of those who receive it. C.H. Spurgeon writes, “It is called the mystery of godliness because it leads to a godly life.” Sometimes we hear people say, “We do not need doctrine; we do not need creeds.” This results in Christians who are untaught and unsure of their faith, and they fail to live victorious Christian lives.

Now let us study the six articles of this Christian creed:-

The Lord Jesus Christ was God and He “appeared in a body”

No statement could be clearer than this, for in these words is the great mystery of the Incarnation, declaring the eternal existence of Christ. Jesus did not begin His life at Bethlehem (compare John 1:1 and 14, and Galatians 4:4). In these verses we are told that the eternal God came and entered a human body in order that He might secure our salvation, and in order that we might know what He is like and be brought back into fellowship with Him. This is the first article of the Christian faith. A man must believe that Jesus is the Son of God to be a Christian at all – look up Acts 8:37; Romans 10:9-10; and compare John 1:12.

The Lord Jesus Christ was “vindicated by the Spirit”

The word ‘Spirit’ is spelt with a capital ‘S’, for the reference is to the Person of the Holy Spirit. The meaning is that Jesus, from the moment He appeared on earth and all through His earthly life and ministry, was vindicated by the Holy Spirit in all His claims to be the Son of God. When He came there were many reasons why men should not believe His claim to be God’s Son, for He came in such poverty, weakness and disrepute, but all the way through our Lord’s earthly life the Holy Spirit gave this proof. Look up the references to the activity of the Holy Spirit in the earthly life of Jesus:- He was (1) born of the Spirit (Matthew 1:18-20; Luke 1:34-35); (2) anointed with the Spirit (Matthew 3:13-17; Luke 4:18); (3) led by the Spirit (Matthew 4:1; Luke 4:1); (4) He served in the power of the Spirit (Luke 10:21 and 11:20; Acts 1:2 and 10:38); (5) His Calvary-work was done in the power of the Spirit (Hebrews 7:27 and 9:14); - but it was especially by His resurrection that the Holy Spirit fully and finally vindicated our Lord’s claim to be the Son of God -–look up Romans 1:4.

The Lord Jesus Christ was “seen by angels”

Angels always attended our Lord. For instance: (1) they announced His birth (Luke 2:9-14); (2) they attended His life and ministry (Matthew 4:11); (3) they observed His passion (1 Peter 1:12); (4) they proclaimed His resurrection (Matthew 28:1-7)); (5) they confirmed His ascension and coming again (Acts 1:10-11). The angels were the first to see Him rise from the grave, and T.A. Gurney says that the words “seen by angels” have special reference to the post-resurrection of our Lord – to the forty days between His resurrection and ascension, “for”, he points out, “the word ‘seen’ implies self-exhibition”. Our Lord showed Himself alive to the angels (Ephesians 3:10 and 1 Peter 1:12).

The Lord Jesus Christ has been “preached among the nations”

All the clauses in this creed are statements of historical facts, and the fourth great fact is that the Gospel of Christ has been proclaimed worldwide. Our Lord commanded that the Gospel be preached in the whole world (Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:8) – for He is everyone’s Savior – compare 1 Timothy 2:3-5.

The Lord Jesus Christ is the Savior of all who believe on Him

Think of it –at first only a few believed on Him; later on three thousand believed (Acts 2:41); and as we go through the story of the early Church more and more heard the Gospel and believed on Him and were saved. This part of the creed is important because it declares God’s plan and method of salvation. He has given His Son – “appeared in a body, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations…” – but how are people saved? Simply by believing and trusting in Christ as Savior and Lord (John 3:16 and 5:24; Acts 16:30-31; Romans 10:9-10; and Ephesians 2:8-10).

The Lord Jesus Christ is now exalted in Heaven

Yes, He was “taken up in glory”. He came to purchase our salvation, and having finished the work He went back to Heaven (Acts 1:8-9). This Christian creed declares the victory of our Savior, who has been here in the flesh, who has been down into death and has conquered sin and death and Hell, and is now exalted at the right hand of God in glory (Philippians 2:6-11). He is there now – look up Hebrews 1:3 and Revelation 1:12-18.

In conclusion, notice that the whole creed centers on the Person and the Work of Christ. Christianity is Christ!

A GOOD MINISTER OF CHRIST JESUS

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 4:1-6; 5:17-25)

One of Paul’s reasons for writing his letters to Timothy was to show him how he might become “a good minister of Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 4:6). This study is primarily for ministers and the word ‘minister’ is the Greek word ‘daikon’s’, which means “one who serves”. The phrase “a good minister of Christ Jesus” is arresting because of the qualifying word ‘good’. What are the qualities or marks of “a good minister of Christ Jesus?

“A good minister of Christ Jesus” will teach sound doctrine.

This is the first thing Paul mentions (1 Timothy 1:3), and compare 1 Timothy 4:1 and 4:6. Serious heresy was endangering the Church at Ephesus, and Paul told Timothy to stay at his place of duty and warn and instruct the members of the Church in the pure doctrine of the gospel. “A good minister” will do this, especially when he recognizes that he is living and laboring for the Lord “in later times”, when many have departed from the faith and when there are “deceiving spirits” on every hand and many are teaching “things taught by demons”. “A good minister” will nourish his soul in the truth of God’s Word, so that he is able to instruct others. We must recognize that we are living in the times of great apostasy of which the Apostle wrote, of which Jesus spoke in Mark 13:22, and to which we have references in 1 John 4:6 and Revelation 13:11. On every hand today we are faced with liberalism and teaching that is not true to God’s Word. “A good minister” will study the scriptures; he will become immersed in the great doctrines of the faith, to which he will hold tenaciously and which he will teach constantly, as Paul did (Acts 20:26-31).

“A good minister of Christ Jesus” is engaged in spiritual warfare.

Read 1 Timothy 1:18-19, and compare 1 Timothy 6:12 and 2 Timothy 4:7. Paul speaks to Timothy as a commanding officer would speak to one of his officers. Timothy must be prepared to fight. A minister in particular is involved in a spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:10-20), and he needs the qualities of a soldier if he is to be victorious. To get to know all the schemes and tactics of the Devil one has only to take a position of leadership in a local Church or on a mission board. Why is this? Satan is a powerful foe and he is doing his utmost to disrupt the work of God. If a minister is to combat the Enemy successfully, two weapons are needed – see verse 19 of 1 Timothy 1. They are: (1) faith, which means a firm, deep trust in God and in what He is doing, that He will have the last word, and that ultimately He will overthrow all the power of the Devil; and (2) a good conscience, that is, a conscience void of offence (Acts 24:16). A good minister must practice what he preaches.

“A good minister of Christ Jesus” will set an example to others.

This is mentioned in 1 Timothy 4:12. Some people might think that Timothy was too young to be a minister, but Timothy could silence all criticism by his Christ-like conduct. The first duty of a minister is not to preach, to teach, to visit or to comfort, but it is to display in his own life the truth he believes and teaches. This is what Paul meant in 1 Timothy 4:12 and he mentions five areas where a minister is to be an example to others.

“A good minister of Christ Jesus” will devote himself to study.

In 1 Timothy 4:13-16 the reference is to the public reading of Scripture and to preaching and teaching – compare Luke 4:16; Acts 13:15; 2 Corinthians 3:14; and also Nehemiah 8:3-4. A minister, however, must be faithful in his private reading and devotions before ever he appears in public. He must be diligent (verse 13); he must not be neglectful (verse 14); he must be wholehearted (verse 15); and above all he must watch himself (verse 16), which means that he must take great care of his inner life. How important it is for ministers to be conscientious in their study and preparation for their work, in the discharge of all their responsibilities, and above all in the matter of prayer and the cultivation of a close walk with God!

“A good minister of Christ Jesus” will be careful about his relationships with the opposite sex.

This is a delicate matter, but it is brought before us in 1 Timothy 5:11-13. Sadly, for want of care in this area many of God’s servants have ruined their ministry! In this chapter the Apostle speaks most graciously of the women-folk – the young, the old and the widows; but he warns Timothy about some women who are a great danger, not only to a Church as a whole, but to the minister in particular. However, it is not always the fault of the women when a minister gets involved in some situation that dishonors the Lord, for some Christian men are careless and even reckless. Let us remember that in all our relationships we are to act and speak as Christ Himself would act and speak.

“A good minister of Christ Jesus” will take care of his body.

We see this in 1 Timothy 5:23. It is important to notice that the Apostle recommends a “little” wine, and he also says, “use a little”. He is obviously speaking of wine as a medicine, and, as one commentator says, “Paul gives Timothy a dietetic prescription for a weak digestion.” Every minister and every Christian should have very settled views and habits with regard to strong drink, but the point we are stressing here is that Paul was very concerned that Timothy should take care of his body. It is a solemn duty for Christians to do this (1 Corinthians 6:19). We cannot do our best work if we are overtired and nervy. We must have regular habits of eating, sleeping and of taking exercise and recreation, and we must try to take time off, or we shall break one of God’s commandments. Resist the temptation to burn the candle at both ends.

“A good minister of Christ Jesus” will live and work in the light of the Judgment Seat of Christ.

We see this in 1 Timothy 6:13-14. As he lives and serves, he will remember that one day he must give an account to his Lord of the way he has lived, and he will then “receive his reward”, or he will “suffer loss” – look up 1 Corinthians 3:12-15, and compare 2 Timothy 4:8.

A CHRISTIAN’S SPIRITUAL EXERCISE

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 4:7-16)

The key verses to this study are 1 Timothy 4:7-9. The Apostle Paul frequently borrowed metaphors from the athletics track – see 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Galatians 5:7; Philippians 2:16. The picture here is the Greek gymnasium, with grounds for exercise, running, wrestling etc. It was a place for bodily exercise and competition. Now see what Paul says to Timothy: “You, as a Christian, must exercise your soul as carefully, regularly and rigorously as the worldly Greeks exercise their bodies. Their motto is body-culture. Yours must be soul-culture. Theirs is a physical exercise. Yours is a spiritual exercise. Theirs makes the body well and develops it. Your objective must be to keep your soul fit and to develop it into godliness” – in order that you may become a godly person, growing in spiritual maturity and Christ-likeness.

It is very important to notice that the apostle does not despise or dismiss bodily exercise and physical health. No Christian should neglect his body. On the contrary, every Christian should by wise living, sensible eating, and taking the right amount of rest, fresh air and exercise, maintain a body that is fit and well (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). But having said this, notice Paul’s emphasis. He says, “physical training is of some value” – that is, for this life only. After all, the body is only the body, however much you exercise it. The body is not the man; it is only the house in which the man lives. Spiritual exercise, however, profits and benefits the soul, the person who lives in the body. Thus, Hendrickson renders 1 Timothy 4:7, “Train yourself for godly living”; and J.B. Phillips makes it read, “Take time and trouble to keep yourself spiritually fit.” Notice three things about this taking time and trouble to become and to keep fit:-

It is a Personal matter – the apostle says, “Train yourself.” This is something we must do for ourselves – compare 1 Timothy 4:16.

It is a Profitable matter – for it is, as verse 7 shows, “to be godly.” In verse 8 we are told that this exercise “has value for all things”, that is, in every way! Verse 8 also tells us that spiritual exercise is profitable in two special ways: (1) in “the present life”, and: (2) the “life to come”. How profitable it is to live a godly life! We receive the benefit in this life and in the life to come.

It is a Progressive matter – “Train yourself to be godly.” It takes patience, hard work and discipline to achieve godliness – look up 2 Peter 3:18.

All this leads us to ask the question: How are we to train ourselves for godly living? What are the exercises in which we are to engage in order to produce and maintain spiritual fitness? We are to exercise ourselves privately and corporately, that is, alone and in fellowship with others. Both are equally important, though some Christians can only exercise themselves privately because they are denied the privilege of corporate exercise, due perhaps to infirmity or age or circumstances.

WAYS IN WHICH WE ARE TO EXERCISE OURSELVES PRIVATELY

By entering the secret place of prayer. Look up Matthew 6:6, and notice that the emphasis is upon being alone. This should be the Christian’s first exercise, to be often alone in the presence of his Heavenly Father, communing with Him (Psalm 4:4); receiving His pardon (John 8:10-11); His cleansing (1 John 1:9); His rest (Matthew 11:28-30); and listening to His voice (Luke 10:39). Do you have a regular private prayer time?

By the devotional reading of God’s Word. If the athlete is to get strong, grow muscles and produce tone, he must have the right food – and so must we if we are going to become strong Christians. This is strikingly brought out in 1 Timothy 4:6 – notice the words “brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching.” Are you a well-nourished Christian, feeding on God’s Word? See what we read about the Berea’s in Acts 17:11! Alone with God’s Word we hear Him speak to us (Psalm 85:8); we receive His guidance (Isaiah 30:21); His wisdom (James 1:5); His comfort (Psalm 23:4); His illumination (Psalm 119:18) – and all we need for godly living.

By practicing the presence of God. How are we to obey 1 Thessalonians 5:17? – By living in fellowship with the Lord, as Brother Lawrence did when he “practiced the presence of God”. This is the way to true godliness.

WAYS IN WHICH WE ARE TO EXERCISE OURSELVES CORPORATELY

By attending Public Worship. According to Luke 4:16 it was the custom of the Lord Jesus to attend the house of God, and there is a danger of getting out of this good habit (Hebrews 10:25). Many Christians forsake the house of God. They attend infrequently and they do not recognize the privilege and benefit of meeting together with other Christians to worship the Lord (Matthew 18:20). We easily stay away for a variety of reasons or distractions. Little wonder that our spiritual life suffers! – Look up Psalm 122:1.

By partaking of the Lord’s Supper. Look up 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. When we take the bread and the wine we exercise ourselves spiritually as we look back to Calvary and forward to the return of our Lord Jesus. If we neglect His Table we neglect the culture of our souls – look up John 6:50-51.

By engaging in specific service. According to Ephesians 2:8-10 we are saved to serve, and we are to serve in accordance with the specific plan that God has for us. Are we exercising ourselves by doing that service? – Look up the solemn verse in Judges 5:23. Many Christians are lazy, and in consequence their spiritual lives suffer.

In conclusion, notice that if we are to exercise ourselves regularly and sufficiently three things are necessary:-

A holy resolve. Look up Philippians 3:13-14. Resolve that the spiritual exercises mentioned above will be the habits of a lifetime.

A willing sacrifice. Look up 2 Samuel 24:24 and Hebrews 12:1. To engage in these exercises will involve the sacrifice of time, pleasures and harmful things.

A continual discipline. Look up 1 Corinthians 9:25-27.

Will you “train yourself to be godly”? Will you really take time and trouble to keep you

Yourself spiritually fit?

A WORD TO THE WOMEN!

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 2:9-15; 5:5-15)

The place of women is important in the sight of God and in the Church, and it is apparent from the many references to them in this letter. Women play a very important part in the life of a church. They have a special ministry. The right kind of women can be the strength of the Church, and in seven different places in this Letter the apostle refers to their ministry. Notice the following:

THE WAY THEY SHOULD DRESS

In 1 Timothy 2:9-10 three important words or phrases guide us: “dress modestly”, “decency” and “appropriate”. What are the principles that should guide a woman in her dress, her jeweler and her choice of hairstyle, especially when she is coming to the house of God? There are three simple tests: (1) is it modest? This is important because much dress today is not modest. (2) Is it decent? Much clothing or lack of it today simply isn’t! (3) Is it appropriate? – That is, is it suitable and in good taste? Women are certainly not to be dowdy in their dress nor careless and untidy in their appearance. On the other hand, they should not give too much thought or spend too much money on these outward things. Look up and compare 1 Peter 3:3-4.

THE POSITION THEY SHOULD OCCUPY

1 Timothy 2:11-14 tells us about this, and the reference is to the position that women should occupy in the church, in the public Assembly of God’s people. What should be a woman’s position and attitude?

She should be a learner and she should keep silence (verses 11-12). It is not primarily her job to preach or teach, for this is the responsibility of the men. Incidentally, the word ‘silence’ does not refer to chattering – compare 1 Corinthians 14:33-35.

She is to be in full submission (verses 11-12). She must not exercise authority over the men to whom God has given the responsibility of leadership and ministry.

THE VIRTUES THEY SHOULD POSSESS

In the last part of 1 Timothy 2:15 four virtues are mentioned that every Christian woman should display. These are (1) Faith, which means faithfulness. (2) Love. (3) Holiness, which means Christ-likeness. (4) Propriety, which means modesty.

What a blessing it is to any church when there are women of this caliber in membership!

THE RESPONSIBILITY THEY SHOULD SHARE.

This is indicated in 1 Timothy 3:11 and is a word for the wives of deacons, or for the wife of any man who holds responsibility in the church. Four qualifications are necessary for the wife of a leader:-

She must share the serious outlook of her husband. A Christian wife may greatly help or seriously hinder her husband’s usefulness (Proverbs 31:30).

She must be a woman of discretion. She must not be a slanderer or a gossip.

She must be self-controlled – compare Galatians 5:22.

(4) She must be absolutely trustworthy and reliable.

THE TESTINGS THEY SHOULD EXPECT

These are referred to in 1 Timothy 5:5, where the particular reference is to being “left all alone”, the loneliness of widowhood; but it is not only the testing of widowhood that Christian women have to face. Some are forsaken by their husbands, some are deprived of the privilege of marriage, some long to have children but they are unable to, some have children who cause them much sorrow, and some have to face all kinds of problems and perplexities that impose a heavy burden upon them. What is the Christian woman’s refuge when such testing’s and trials come? Her refuge is God Himself (verse 5)! She has no-one to look to but God (Psalm 62:5; 123:1-2 and Luke 2:36-37). Does God fail His people when they trust in Him and pray to Him day and night? Never!

THE SERVICE THEY SHOULD PROVIDE

This is referred to in 1 Timothy 5:10. We have already noticed that in the public assembly the women are to keep silence and to take a position of quiet submission, but that does not mean that they cannot undertake any useful work for the Lord. On the contrary, look at the useful ministries listed in this verse and see what scope they offer to every Christian woman who would serve her Lord:-

She can bring up children. If the Lord has entrusted you with children you cannot exercise any greater ministry than to bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).

She can show hospitality. For examples of this, compare the cases of Judas (Acts 9:11); Simon the Tanner (Acts 9:43); and Lydia (Acts 16:40).

She can wash the feet of the saints. There is no suggestion here that feet-washing was a Christian ordinance. The thought is of a willingness to do lowly tasks and to bring comfort to those who are in need – compare John 13:1-10.

She can relieve the distressed. What a gracious word this is! – compare Galatians 6:2; 1 Thessalonians 2:7; and 2 Thessalonians 1:3.

She can be a spiritual support to other women. We need such women in the church today. There are many already, but there is room for many more.

THE DANGERS THEY SHOULD AVOID

These are brought before us in words that are solemn and full of warning in 1 Timothy 5:11-15, where we are told about women with “sensual desires”, which means restless; about women who had “broken their first pledge”, which means that they had grown slack spiritually; about women who had become gossips and busybodies, gadding about from house to house. Such women lower the reputation of the church and give “the enemy opportunity for slander”. Such women simply play into the hands of the Enemy. What dangers these are for every Christian woman to avoid!

In concluding this study, we should point out that all that Paul wrote about Christian grace and character for the women, refers also to the men!

Chapter6

ADVICE TO A MAN OF GOD

(Scripture Portion: 1 Timothy 6:1-21)

All the teaching in this section of scripture centers around the advice Paul gives to Timothy in verses 11 and 12, where he says, “But you, man of God, flee…pursue…fight…” The title “man of God” is one that is frequently used in the Old Testament, and it was applied to Moses (Deuteronomy 33:1); Samuel (1 Samuel 9:6); David (2 Chronicles 8:14); Elijah (1 Kings 17:24); and Elisha (2 Kings 4:9), but it is a description that fits every Christian, for as Christians we are God’s men and God’s women.

The command to FLEE: or, the Vices from which we must flee.

The Apostle speaks of this in the first part of verse 11, and what he means is that there are certain things from which we, as Christians, must run. The word ‘flee’ literally means ‘be ever fleeing’; we must never be caught by these things. What things? They are indicated in verses 4-10, and for the purpose of this study we shall simply lift out a few phrases and center our thoughts upon them.

Conceit. Notice the words in verse 4, “he is conceited”. This means, quite literally, ‘he is wrapped up in smoke’; that is, he is inflated with his own importance. Men of God must flee from these things.

Impurity. Verse 5 speaks of “men of corrupt mind”; or, as the word really means, ‘debased minds’, or ‘wicked hearts’ – look up Jeremiah 17:9. What does God desire above everything else? – look up Psalm 51:6 and see – and for the most terrible and vivid illustration of the way in which we are to run from impurity turn to Genesis 39: 7-13, and prayerfully read it. Any entertaining of impurity is sure to bring a downfall – therefore flee from it!

A discontented spirit. Verses 6-8 warn us about this, and if it is questioned as to whether this is a vice let us say that it is certainly not a virtue. Some Christians are always complaining; things are never right! How dishonoring this is to the Lord! – But it is possible to learn the way of deliverance and to come to the place of complete victory in and over our circumstances – look up Philippians 4:11-12.

Foolish and harmful desires. This phrase in verse 9 refers to any uncontrolled desire or passion, or any ambition that is not subjected to the control of the Holy Spirit. In this case it refers to the lust for riches – but people lust after other things as well. Notice the dreadful result of constantly entertaining desires that are not yielded to the Lord and in accordance with His will (end of verse 9).

The love of money. Money is not wrong in itself, but it is the inordinate love of it that is wrong. These are days in which there is a craze for getting, especially for getting something for nothing.

These are some of the things from which we must run – Proverbs 18:10!

The call to PURSUE: or, the Virtues we must pursue.

These are all contained in verse 11; look at them carefully:-

Righteousness. This means being right in our relationships with men. Moffat translates the word ‘integrity’ – a great word indeed! It is a tragic thing that often the world sees a lack of honesty in Christians. We are to be men and women who at all costs follow after integrity.

Godliness. J.B. Phillips says that the meaning of this word is “to be Christ-like”. Could we have a greater desire than to be like Jesus?

Faith. The meaning of this word is ‘fidelity’, ‘reliability’ or ‘dependability’. Earthly employers are always looking for men upon whom they can depend. God also is looking for men and women in whom He can trust – see how the second part of Isaiah 66:2 reads.

Love. The Apostle says “Make it your all-out ambition to be loving at all times.” Why is it that Christians are often unloving and unkind? Think about the words of the Lord Jesus recorded in John 13:34-35.

Endurance. The thought here is of endurance in trials. Often when the testing’s and trials of life come we ‘go under’, but we are to seek at all costs to ‘endure’ at such times. Why? Because of Romans 8:28. All trials are for a purpose, and we may endure in the fiercest testing’s because of 2 Corinthians 9:8 and 12:9.

Gentleness. The Apostle says, “Be gentle, gracious and kind.”

The challenge to FIGHT: or, the Victories for which we must fight.

The Apostle brings this before us in verse 12. Christians are to be fighters; they are engaged in a stern warfare against a powerful enemy, but they have a wonderful and a victorious Captain (Hebrews 2:10). What are the victories for which we are to fight? Three are indicated here:-

For the advancement of the Gospel. This is mentioned in verse 12, which reads, “Fight the good fight of the faith”; it refers to a disciplined struggle. All the enemies of the Lord are fighting to advance their causes. Is it not time that we who are serving under such a great Captain should fight for “the faith”, in this “good” fight? What a privilege to be His soldier, but what a responsibility!

For the gaining of the reward. Undoubtedly, when the Apostle says in verse 12, “Take hold of the eternal life”, he is thinking of the Grecian games, where the runner is on the stretch to gain the prize. We shall all come to stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ, and this should be constantly in our thoughts as we serve and as we fight, so that we may gain…and not lose…(1 Corinthians 3:9-16).

For the honoring of the Savior. Look at verses 12-14. Jesus, in the face of tremendous odds at His trial, fought victoriously and brought glory to God; and in the same way, as we fight for that which is right, seeking the advancement of His kingdom, we shall bring honor to Him.

Here, then, is the Apostle’s advice to a man of God – to you and to me; but it is not only good advice, it is good news, for what we are strongly urged to do here is made possible through Christ – look up Philippians 4:13, and by the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ – look up Philippians 1:19.

TIMOTHY, PAUL’S DEAR SON

(Scripture Portion: Acts 16: 1-12. Key verse: 2 Timothy 1:2)

The title for this first study comes from 1:2, “To Timothy, my dear son.” Paul was a spiritual father to young Timothy, a Pastor in the Church in Ephesus. This letter contains the last recorded words written by Paul. He wrote from a Roman prison, certain his earthly life would soon be over. Timothy was not very strong bodily and he was timid and inclined to be dependent upon others, and especially upon Paul – “Paul was his prop as well as his hero.” Paul felt concerned for Timothy as he thought of his own approaching death, and it was to encourage his son in the faith that he wrote this great letter. Let us notice, to begin with:-

PAUL’S AFFECTIONATE REGARD FOR TIMOTHY

This is brought before us in the first five words in verse 2, where Paul emphasizes his great love for Timothy. He speaks of him as his “son”; but not only so, he speaks of him as “my dear son.” Timothy had a Greek father and his mother was a Jewess (Acts 16:1). His home was at Lustra, and in all probability his grandmother lived with them - compare 2 Timothy 1:5. When he was in his teens, Paul visited Lustra, when he and Barnabas were on their first missionary journey (Acts 14:6-7); and this seems to have been the occasion of Timothy’s conversion. Six years later, when Paul revisited Lustra, “the brothers spoke well of him” (Acts 16:2) – look up and compare 1 Timothy 3:7 and 3 John 4. During this second visit, Paul invited Timothy to join forces with him (Acts 16:3); and Timothy did so and accompanied Paul in his labors at Corinth, Ephesus, Athens, Antioch, Philippi and Rome, but all the time Paul looked upon young Timothy as his son in the faith, as his spiritual child whom he loved very much. His tender affection for Timothy comes out again and again in his writings. It reminds us of David and Jonathan – look up 2 Samuel 1:26.

PAUL’S INTIMATE FELLOWSHIP WITH TIMOTHY

Although Paul was in prison at Rome and Timothy was at Ephesus, these two had wonderful fellowship together, “partnership in the Gospel” (Philippians 1:5). This fellowship was expressed by the apostle in five ways:-

He thanked God for him. Verse 3 tells us this. Whenever Paul thought of Timothy he thanked God for him – for his conversion, his growth in grace, his assistance, his love, his encouragement and his prayers. Do we cause others to thank God for us?

He prayed for him. We see this at the end of verse 3. Over and over again we discover what a great pray-err Paul was, and here he tells us that he prayed for Timothy “as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers” – look up and compare 1 Thessalonians 5:23. Paul was in prison, but he could pray for Timothy who was in the front line of the battle. What a lesson this is for every prisoner, for every “shut in” saint!

He longed to see him. Notice what Paul says in verse 4: “I long to see you.” There is something sad about this, but it helps us to enter into the apostle’s feelings of tender regard for his son in the faith.

He remembered his tears. Verse 4 should read literally, “I revive in my memory your tears.” This is probably a reference to the fact that when Paul last said good-bye to Timothy, Timothy wept. Yes, and Paul wept also!

He rejoiced over him. Verse 4 tells us this. Whenever Paul thought of Timothy he was filled with joy.

In all these ways the Apostle Paul, from his dungeon in Rome, was able to express his very real fellowship with Timothy who was engaged in the Lord’s work in Ephesus. Now, finally, notice:-

PAUL’S WISE COUNSEL TO TIMOTHY

This counsel is scattered throughout the Letter, and the following are six selected exhortations that Paul gave to Timothy, each of which is introduced by a key word:-

“FAN” – 1:6-7. The gift that Timothy was to “fan into flame” was evidently the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is as though Paul said to Timothy, “Let the Holy Spirit blaze up and set your whole being on fire” – in other words, Ephesians 5:18! We need this exhortation, and notice in verse 7 that if we will “fan into flame the gift of God”, we shall experience emancipation, endowment, enrichment, and enlightenment.

“KEEP” – 1:13. Compare 1 Timothy 6:3, which explains what is meant. Paul encouraged Timothy to keep hold of the truth because he lived in a day of apostasy, as we do – look up 1 Timothy 1:3-10; 4:6; 4:16; 6:20. Notice how we are to keep hold of the truth – in faith (God-ward), and in love (man-ward) – look up Ephesians 4:15.

“ENDURE” – 2:3-4. Timothy was a soldier of Christ, and as such needed to prepare to endure hardships. The Christian life is no ‘beds of roses. Grace is needed (verse 1), but grit is needed also (verse 3) – look up Luke 9:23. Because there is a war on (verse 4), we are to free ourselves from every entanglement – and notice the reason we are to do this (verse 4).

“STUDY” – 2:15 (AV). Timothy was to be diligent, and his great ambition was to be that of gaining God’s approval. The way to achieve this ambition is to give the Word of God its rightful place in our lives, and this will safeguard us against – verses 16,17,18 and 23 – compare 1 Timothy 6:20-21.

“FLEE” – 2:22. This simply means ‘to run away from’ – compare 1 Timothy 6:9-11. From what was he to run away? – “The evil desires of youth” – compare 1 Timothy 4:12, i.e. those temptations to impurity that are especially perilous in the time of youth. In these days of dreadful moral laxity we are to “flee” from every suggestion of impurity, and then we are to “pursue” four things (verse 22) – look up Genesis 39:7-12 and compare Proverbs 18:10.

“CONTINUE” – 3:14. So many start but do not go on – look up John 8:31 and 15:9, and compare Acts 1:14; 2:42; 13:43; 14:22; Colossians 4:2; and Hebrews 13:1. Now look up Luke 9:62 and compare 2 Timothy 4:10.

These exhortations were all addressed to Timothy, but they all apply to us!

GOD’S GIFT TO EVERY BELIEVER

(Scripture Portion: 2 Timothy 1:1-18. Key verse: verse 7)

In this second study we consider God’s gift to every believer, His gift of the Holy Spirit – look up the words of Jesus in John 14:16-17. The Apostle Paul refers to this great gift in 2 Timothy 1:7, the key verse of this study. When Paul wrote this letter he was in prison, and it would appear that Timothy was in some kind of spiritual danger. Paul does not tell us exactly what the danger was, but possibly Timothy was not as ready for soldiery as he was for sainthood; for the Lord’s call to us is that we should not only be saints but soldiers. When we come to Him we receive the blessing of rest (Matthew 11:28); but the Lord at once challenges us with a proclamation of battle (2 Timothy 2:3). A careful study of 2 Timothy 1:6 suggests that possibly Timothy had lost some of his former zeal for the Lord. Therefore Paul needed to write to him and to exhort him to “fan into flame the gift of God”. We need to notice two things in our key-verse: first that the reference here is to the Holy Spirit. The word “Spirit” should be spelt with a capital ‘S’ for it refers to the third Person of the Trinity, as verse 6 indicates. In early apostolic times it was customary for the Holy Spirit to be imparted through the laying on of hands. But it is also important to notice: second that God has given the Holy Spirit to all who believe. This is a fundamental truth which we need to understand. The Holy Spirit indwells every child of God – notice the last phrase in 2 Timothy 1:14. If this is so, what is He there to do? What is His ministry in the life of the Christian? In this one verse we are told of four of His ministries. Notice to begin with that:-

HE INDWELLS US TO DELIVER US FROM FEAR

He is within us to set us free from fear, for “God did not give us a spirit of timidity…” Of course, there is a sense in which the Holy Spirit makes us more fearful than we were before we became Christians. That is, He plants within us the fear of the Lord, which is a holy, godly fear. But the thought in this verse is that the Holy Spirit is within us to free us from all binding and destructive fear, and Paul mentions three specific fears from which the Holy Spirit frees us:-

SALVATION

(Scripture Portion: Ephesians: 2:1-10. Key verse: 2 Timothy 1:9)

Concentrated in 2 Timothy 1:9 is the truth that is constantly repeated in the Bible, that we are saved by grace alone. Salvation from start to finish is altogether the work of God, and man can add nothing to it. It is “not of works” – look up Ephesians 2:8-10; for God’s salvation is freely given “to the man who does not work” – look up Romans 4:5, and compare Titus 3:5. Man says that we must work in order to be saved, but this is unscriptural and untrue. God’s salvation is all of grace, which means that it is not of works. This truth is very simply declared in the verse before us. What is the first thing we are told?

GOD IS THE AUTHOR OF OUR SALVATION

The verse begins with the words, “God, who has saved us…” Are we saved? Then God has done it. Here is the truth Jonah declared when he was inside the whale (Jonah 2:9). When we turn to other scriptures for an exposition of this truth that “God…has saved us”, we learn that God the Father planned our salvation (John 3:16); God the Son purchased our salvation (1 Timothy 1:15); and God the Holy Spirit perfects this salvation in the heart of the sinner who is saved by grace – look up Romans 8:15-16. Man’s efforts are excluded altogether. Now notice how the verse goes on:-

BELIEVERS ARE ALREADY SAVED HERE AND NOW

Our salvation is already accomplished, for “God has saved us…” – He has already done it! This simple statement that “God has saved us” tells us that every believer may have assurance concerning his salvation. It is alarming to discover how many Christians lack the assurance of salvation. They ‘hope’ they are saved, but they are not sure. Why do they lack assurance? The reason in most cases is because of a defective view of salvation. Once we see that salvation is all of grace and the work of God, we soon enter into the joy of full assurance – look up 1 John 5:13. Now notice the next important phase of truth:-

GOD SAVED US BEFORE HE CALLED US

That is how the verse reads – “Who has saved us, and called us…” In the purpose of God we were saved before we ever knew about it, so how could we have contributed to our salvation? We were saved when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31); when we came to Him (John 6:37); and when we welcomed Him (Revelation 3:20); but in the plan and purpose of God we were saved in eternity past – look up and compare Romans 5:8; Ephesians 1:4 and 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14. Now notice the next thing:-

WE ARE SAVED TO BE HOLY, AND NOT BECAUSE WE ARE HOLY

Our verse reads, “Who has saved us and called us to a holy life.” There was not a spark of goodness in us when the Lord saved us. He did not save us because there was anything good in us. He saved us when we were sinners, and His purpose in saving us was in order that we might be holy, and any holiness we shall ever know will be given us by God’s grace. Do not think that the Lord saved you because of any of your own merit. He saved you that you might become holy - compare 1 Thessalonians 4:3 and 7, and 1 Peter 1:15-16. The apostle then goes on to say:-

OUR SALVATION HAS NOTHING AT ALL TO DO WITH WORKS

We are saved, “not because of anything we have done…” What a contrast between the truth of this verse and much preaching today! So many say, “Do your best, and God will save you.” But this is not the Gospel. It is not even good advice, because it is not true. The Gospel is this – “You are a lost, guilty and Hell-deserving sinner. You deserve nothing from God but His displeasure. The best there is about you is filthy in His sight. You have no rights at all, except to be cast into Hell. But God, in His sovereign love has reached down and saved you, and He has done this through His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.” God has excluded our works from every tense of salvation – past, present and future. We are not saved from the penalty of sin by our own works, nor are we saved from the power of sin by our own works, nor shall we be saved from the very presence of sin by our own works. Justification, sanctification, glorification – are all of God (Romans 8:30). Now, why does God save us?

GOD SAVES US “BECAUSE OF HIS OWN PURPOSE”

We are saved through believing on the Savior (Acts 16:31), through coming to Him (John 6:37), through welcoming Him (Revelation 3:20), and through believing on Him (Acts 16:31), but primarily we are saved because it was His merciful purpose to save us – look up and compare John 15:16; Romans 8:28-29; Romans 9:16; and Ephesians 3:11. The apostle goes still further and says:-

GOD’S SALVATION IS ALL OF GRACE

It seems that Paul could not find words or expressions enough to emphasize that the whole of man’s salvation from start to finish is all of God’s grace. God saves us all in the same way. He saves us quite apart from our ‘goodness’ or any supposed merit of our own. Paul gives another death-blow to works:-

GOD’S SALVATION IS A GIFT

This salvation “was given us” – look up Romans 6:23. You cannot work for a gift. You can only receive it. It is impossible to buy God’s salvation, for it is a gift (2 Corinthians 9:15). Now notice what Paul says:-

THIS SALVATION IS “IN CHRIST JESUS”

Look up and compare Acts 4:12 and 2 Timothy 2:10. How, then, could we earn this salvation? It is altogether in Christ. Notice one last thing Paul gives us:-

GOD SAVED US “BEFORE THE BEGINNING OF TIME”

Link up the opening and closing words in our verse like this – “God has saved us…before the beginning of time”. If this is true, how could I contribute anything towards my salvation?

A CALL FOR CONSTANCY AND PERSEVERANCE

(Scripture Portion: 2 Timothy 2:1-26. Key verse: verse 3)

Paul knew that Timothy needed two things: constancy and perseverance. In this second chapter of the letter Paul exhorts Timothy to be constant and to press on in the service to which God has called him. Every servant of the Lord needs to obey this exhortation. We tend to be inconsistent, to fluctuate and to be unstable. Let us note the appeal that Paul makes to Timothy, and indeed to us. In this chapter he gives us a seven-fold description of believers.

As SONS, we are to be strong in the grace of Christ - verse 1.

When Paul called Timothy “my son” he meant that Timothy was converted through his ministry. Every Christian, however, is a child of God (John 1:12); and as sons of God, we are to grow up in a spiritual sense – compare 2 Peter 3:18. Growing does not take place automatically. A baby grows by drinking milk, and later on solid food, and also by exercise, the right amount of fresh air and rest and sleep. Without these a baby will not grow up into a healthy adult. The same is true in the Christian life. We must have the right food – the Word of God; the right amount of air – prayer; the right amount of sleep – rest and communion with the Lord; and the right amount of exercise – Christian service. Growth is not automatic. We have to do something if we are to grow.

As SOLDIERS, we are to be steadfast and disciplined – verses 3-4.

Paul spoke from experience when he exhorted Timothy to endure hardship like a good soldier…for the apostle certainly experienced a great deal of affliction and suffering (2 Corinthians 11:23-29). Every soldier has to make sacrifices and be prepared for suffering. Soldiers have to leave home, family and friends, they must be prepared for a different climate, they have to live on army rations, and they do this all for the sake of their country. Christians should live like this for the Lord. But notice what Paul then says in verse 4, that a soldier must not get involved in civilian affairs. It is easy for us to be taken up with worldly things, to adopt the world’s standards and to fall in with its mind-set. The Christian soldier’s great desire must be to “please his commanding officer” (verse 4).

As ATHLETES, we are to compete according to the rules – verse 5.

Dry Weymouth renders this verse: “A competitor in any game is not crowned unless he observes the rules of the game.” Paul had in mind the Grecian games, and in those contests anyone who broke the rules not only failed to win the prize but he was sometimes disgraced and punished. This brings us face to face with the fact that one day we shall have to appear at the Judgment Seat of Christ, to be rewarded or to suffer loss (1 Corinthians 3:12-15), and compare 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. The rules that relate to the race in which we are running are all contained in the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit waits to interpret that Word to us in order that we may keep the rules and obtain the prize.

As LABOURERS, we are to work for a harvest – verse 6.

Before a farmer can expect to reap a harvest he must work very hard. He must plough, prepare, fertilize and then sow the seed. This is what Paul is saying to his friend. Labor must precede reward. If we would reap then we must sow. we cannot hope for a harvest if we have not labored for it. All this is true with regard to the work of the Church. Look up a very solemn verse – Judges 5:23. Could it be true of you that you do not come “to help the Lord against the mighty”? When there is such need for dedicated workers are we lazy and idle? Remember, there will never be a harvest unless there has first been some really hard labor in the Lord’s vineyard.

As WORKMEN, we are to be skilled in using our tools – verse 15.

Our tool is the Word of Truth, and in order to be “approved” we must be able to handle the Word of God correctly. The all-important thing is our right attitude to the Bible. There are three rules that we should adopt with regard to our Bible reading and Bible study. We must always:-

Look it up – search the Scriptures – see John 5:39.

Let it in – let the Word into our hearts and lives – look up Colossians 3:16.

Live it out – put into practice the truth we receive – look up Titus 2:10.

If we are to be workmen who do not “need to be ashamed”, we must do this regularly and diligently. Only then will we be qualified to serve God effectively.

As VESSELS, we must be clean and ready to be used – verses 20-21.

In a large house there are many kinds of vessels – some for drinking, some for cooking, and some for more noble uses than others, some made of gold, some of silver and some of clay. All this is true in the Church, but all of the articles, whether they are of gold or only of clay, must be clean and available for the Master to use. This is what Paul is saying here, and it is these two things that he is stressing about the articles: first, they must be available; second, they must be clean. If God is going to use us we must be at His disposal, but more than that, we must be clean, for the Lord never uses unclean articles. Notice in verse 21 that we have to do this cleansing ourselves – “If a man cleanses himself…” This is what 2 Corinthians 7:1 tells us. From what must we cleanse ourselves? One answer to this is given in verse 22.

As SERVANTS, we must be kind, patient and helpful – verses 24-25.

The Lord’s servant must not quarrel. He must be a man of peace and not a contentious man. The wise Christian worker will certainly do all in his power to avoid controversies (verse 23) which only breed quarrels. The Lord’s servant must learn the Lord’s way, which was to be gentle – look up 2 Corinthians 10:1.

Here, then, is the apostle’s seven-fold exhortation to constancy and to perseverance. Who is sufficient for these things? Only the man who is “strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (verse 1).

HOW TO GAIN GOD’S APPROVAL

(Scripture Portion: Psalm 119:89-105. 2 Timothy 2:15)

Our key verse contains a summary of Paul’s advice to Timothy in this second letter, but it is also God’s word to us today. Notice the following truths:-

As Christians and as God’s servants, our chief concern should be to gain God’s approval. We should not seek the approval of men, even of our family and friends, but of God Himself. Sometimes, in order to gain God’s approval we have to lose men’s approval. John the Baptist discovered this (Matthew 14:8) and so did the man in John 9 (verse 34). Stephen also lost the approval of men but gained God’s approval (Acts 7:59). The same was true of Paul and Silas – look up Acts 16:23-24.

Whether we gain God’s approval depends upon how diligent we are. The words “do your best” or “study” (AV) are very important. They mean ‘be diligent’. There is a tendency for us to remain content with the fact that God has saved us from wrath (John 3:36); and has given us eternal life (Romans 6:23). Are we content with the fact that we have escaped Hell? Are we satisfied to have a saved soul even though our life is lost? No success can be achieved in any sphere without hard work and diligence.

Whether we gain God’s approval or not is an individual matter. Notice how careful Paul is to say “yourself” – and compare Romans 14:12. So many Christians are careless and lack spiritual discipline. It is so easy for us to ‘go with the crowd’; to be worldly rather than spiritual (1 Corinthians 3:1-4); to live “for ourselves” instead of “for Him” (2 Corinthians 5:15).

Not to gain God’s approval means to be ashamed before Him. There is a day coming when the Lord will review our life and service. This truth is brought before us in 1 Corinthians 3:13-15, and it will be most solemn if we have to ‘blush with shame’ at this review – look up 1 John 2:28.

We can now ask the all-important question: How do we present ourselves to God as one approved? Notice the answer to this question: It depends upon our faithful handling of God’s Word in relation to ourselves and our service. The Word of God is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice, and if we “correctly handle” Scripture then we shall live to His glory and serve to His praise. What does it mean to correctly handle the word of truth?

IT MEANS TO ACCEPT THE BIBLE AS THE WORD OF TRUTH.

We cannot “correctly handle” the Bible unless we accept the Bible entirely. There are those who think that they can accept and believe parts of the Bible (the parts they choose) and reject other parts; but if we do this we can never correctly handle the Word, because we must accept it as a whole. Confusion arises immediately if parts of the Bible are not considered reliable. Which parts? Who is to decide? And if some of the book is not to be relied upon who is to say that any of it is authentic? Thank God for a Bible that is wholly inspired and trustworthy! – Look up 2 Timothy 3:16.

IT MEANS TO APPLY EVERY PART OF THE BIBLE TO LIFE AND CONDUCT.

There are those who say they believe the Bible, but their lives deny the fact. Theoretically they boast that they are fundamentalists, but experimentally they are very inconsistent. We cannot have the Bible in the head and not also in the heart. Let us accept the full inspiration and authority of the whole Bible as the Word of God, and live accordingly. It is tragic to believe the Bible “from cover to cover” and to be dishonest, disobedient, careless and perhaps even consciously living in sin. The Word of God is a sword (Ephesians 6:17 and Hebrews 4:12) – and a sword pierces and cuts. Do we allow the Sword of the Spirit to do its work when we read and study it? Do we seek to bring our lives into subjection to it? Do we allow the Word to criticize us and to adjust us to the will of God? – Look up 2 Timothy 3:17. This is the way to gain God’s approval.

IT MEANS TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THINGS THAT DIFFER.

Our key verse contains a picture of the priest cutting up the sacrifice upon the altar. It was not easy to cut up a lamb correctly – to find out where the joints were and to dissect the different parts of the body. The Word of God is like the body of the animal, and it requires some skill to handle it correctly into its different parts. For example we must always distinguish between the following:-

LAW and GRACE (John 1:17; Romans 6:14).

SALVATION and REWARDS (Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 Corinthians 9:23-24).

HIS work and OUR work (John 19:30; Hebrews 10:12; Ephesians 2:10).

BIRTH and GROWTH (John 1:12; 2 Peter 3:18).

The OLD nature and the NEW nature (John 3:6; 1 John 5:18).

Our STANDING and our STATE (1 Corinthians 1:2 and 5:1).

JUSTIFICATION and SANCTIFICATION (Romans 5:1; 2 Corinthians 7:1).

IT MEANS TO DECLARE THE BIBLE WITHOUT DISTORTION.

This expression “correctly handling” contains the idea of cutting a straight road or path. To correctly handle the Word means – look up Acts 20:27! Those who preach and teach must see that we do not speak of Heaven without Hell, repentance without faith, faith without works, or the first coming without the second. It is so easy for the preacher to select ‘pet themes’ and to neglect to proclaim the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:19-21 and 26-27).

IT MEANS TO GIVE TO EACH WHAT IS NEEDED.

Here is the head of the household carving the joint. What does he do? He knows what each needs – a tender piece of meat for the children, not too much for mother, a small portion for grandma and plenty for the boys! To correctly handle the Word is to know how to select the right portions for those we are seeking to help – this portion for the dying, this for the bereaved and this for the backslider. So the apostle would say to us:-

“Earnestly seek to commend yourself to God as a workman who, because of his straightforward dealing with the Word of Truth, has no reason to feel any shame” (2 Timothy 2:15 – Weymouth).

GOD’S SOLID FOUNDATION STANDS FIRM

(Scripture Portion: Psalm 87:1-7. Key verse: 2 Timothy 2:19)

In both of Paul’s letters to Timothy there are strong warnings against the dangers of the apostasy which was appearing in the Church, and which would increase, especially in the last days – look up and compare 1 Timothy 1:3-4; 4:1; and 2 Timothy 4:3-4. When Paul wrote this letter there were plenty of false teachers in the professing Church, and today the same condition still exists. It is an alarming situation and it threatens to bring discouragement to God’s people. The work of the Church is difficult and the progress of the Gospel is slow, but in spite of this we can be very optimistic, for the key verse assures us that there is no need for alarm or discouragement. In this verse Paul brings us the picture of the foundation of a building. This foundation is absolutely secure; it cannot be moved, and on either side of it there is a seal or inscription. One of these seals is on the God-ward side and the other on the man-ward side. In this verse there are three words to which we should give careful heed:-

A WORD OF CONFIDENCE

What is it? That despite the great forces that are opposing the Church – the apostasy that is apparent on every hand, the worldliness that is in the Church, the shallowness that is in the spiritual experience of God’s people, and the apathy there is in His service – despite all these things the firm foundation of God stands. This is the force of the word ‘nevertheless’ in verse 19. The tense of the Greek verb here suggests that the foundation has stood and yet stands; and, in that it was laid by God, the firm and enduring constancy of it is not to be questioned. Now, what is this foundation? It is the whole number of God’s elect – the true Church of Jesus Christ – joined to Him in a vital union effected by the Holy Spirit. It is called a foundation in order to express better its immobility – now compare Psalm 11:3-4; Matthew 7:24-25; Matthew 16:13-19 and Ephesians 2:19-22. What a word of confidence this is! We need not fear for the safety of the Church, or of God’s people. The foundation of God will never be destroyed, so all will be well! This is our confidence. But notice that our key verse also contains:-

A WORD OF COMFORT

What is it? The comfort is found in the inscription, “The Lord knows those who are his!” Notice that it does not only say that the Lord knows about all who belong to Him, but that He actually knows them and He has a tender regard for them because they are His. The Bible teaches the absolute security of God’s people, of those whom He has made His own by election, by His holy calling, by the miracle of the new birth, by the blood-washing of the Lord Jesus and by the operation of the Holy Spirit by whom they have been built into the building of God, the body of Christ. But what about those who fall away? Surely these must be professors and not possessors; they are in Christendom but not in the true Church; they have faith in their heads but not saving faith in their hearts; they hold the lamp of testimony but there is no oil in their lamps; they are tares and not wheat (2 Timothy 3:5). All who ‘fall away’ were never really of the true ‘foundation’; they were never born again and never really saved – look up Romans 9:6, and compare 1 John 2:19. As the Lord looks at the professing Church He knows those in that Church who are His. There is great comfort in this truth for the following reasons:-

Here is the guarantee of His protection. Notice the word ‘his’ – “the Lord knows those who are his”. He looks at each member of His Church and says, ‘You are mine’ – compare John 10:14 and 28-29.

Here is the guarantee of His purpose. “The Lord knows those…” – compare Job 23:10; Psalm 37:23-24; Romans 8:28-30 and Hebrews 7:25. God is working out His gracious purpose in the lives of His people – look up Philippians 1:6.

Here is the guarantee of His provision. When Jesus was speaking of food, clothing, shelter, etc., see what He went on to say – Matthew 6:31-32. Our Heavenly Father knows us and knows all our needs, and He guarantees to provide all our needs – look up Philippians 4:19.

A WORD OF CAUTION

Yes, the word of confidence and the word of comfort is followed by a word of caution, brought out in the other inscription on the foundation – “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.” The thought here is that if a professing Christian gives no evidence of turning away from wickedness, there is no evidence that he is a real Christian at all – look up the solemn words of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 7:22-23. If we are really the Lord’s people we shall turn away from wickedness; if we are not doing this – or ‘standing aloof from it’, as the word really means – there is no evidence that we really are the Lord’s people. Jesus came to save us from our sins (Matthew 1:21). The ‘wickedness’ referred to her includes any transgression of the commands of Christ. It includes all forms of lawlessness. We are to depart from every thought, word and deed which is contrary to the moral law of God, and in particular we are to depart from worldliness, impurity and pride. These three sins are mentioned in this chapter:-

We are to depart from worldliness. Verse 4 tells us this. What a word this is for us today! – look up and compare 1 John 2:15-17.

We are to depart from impurity. Verse 22 tells us this, and what a word this is for today! – look up and compare 2 Corinthians 7:1 and Jude 23.

We are to depart from pride. Verses 24 and 25 tell us this. The first mark of a real Christian is that he is “gentle and humble” (Matthew 11:29).

Let us rest on the word of confidence, rejoice in the word of comfort and respond to the word of caution.

THE PARABLE OF THE LARGE HOUSE

(Scripture Portion: 2 Timothy 2:20-26. Key verses: verses 20-21)

Have you ever hear this before?? These verses in 2 Timothy 2:20-21 present to us a parable in the form of a word-picture. The picture is of a large house in which there are many articles or utensils, and of the master of the house who uses these. The “large house” represents the professing Church, and the Master of the house is the Lord Himself. What are the utensils? They are Christians whom the Lord wants to use in His service. In the New Testament Christians are represented as ‘saints’, denoting their union with Christ; ‘believers’, denoting their faith in Christ; ‘lights’, denoting their influence for Christ; ‘soldiers’, denoting their warfare for Christ; ‘disciples’ denoting their discipline for Christ; and, Christians are also represented as ‘vessels’ (AV), emphasizing the truth that the Lord of the house wants to use them for His purposes (Acts 9:15, and compare 2 Corinthians 4:7). The emphasis of this parable is usefulness in the service of God. Let us look at these vessels whom God would use:-

THE VESSELS ARE THERE IN ORDER THAT THEY MAY BE USED

The utensils in a large house, whether they belong in the kitchen or the dining-room, whether they are vessels of gold, silver, wood or clay, are there to be used. Christians are in the Church for the same purpose; we are saved to serve (Ephesians 2:10). The Lord calls us not only to come to Him (Matthew 11:28), but also to go for Him (Matthew 28:19). God wants to use us. Sometimes when we are about to start some form of Christian service we pray, ‘Lord, help me!’ – But we should really pray ‘Lord, use me!’ – Because it is not we who are doing the work with the Lord’s help but the Lord who is doing the work through us.

THE VESSELS ARE REALLY NEEDED BY THE MASTER

Can you imagine any large household without the equivalent of vessels of gold, silver, wood and clay – without utensils for washing and cooking, eating and drinking? Such vessels are absolutely necessary, and it is the same in the Church where the Lord is Master. He needs vessels to perform His great purposes in the Church and in the world, and how He needs vessels into which He can put the treasure of His grace and love, men and women whom He can use for spreading the Gospel of His grace! In 2 Kings 4:1-7 we read the story of a bankrupt woman who was told by Elisha to borrow vessels from all her neighbors. She did so, and then a miracle was performed. The world around us is bankrupt but we are the vessels in which and through which God is wanting to pour the miracle of His grace so that the needs of men and women may be met. So the Lord has a very real need for you. He wants to use you just where He has placed you – in the home, the office, the factory, wherever it may be. He cannot do His work in the place where you are unless He can use you as a vessel, a channel, of His grace. Now see that:-

THE VESSELS ARE FOR DIFFERENT PURPOSES

Some are of gold or silver or wood or clay. They are all different because they are for different purposes. This applies in any household, and He has need of each kind in the Church. He needs Peters and Paul’s, Andrews and Lydia’s, men like Matthew and men like Barnabas. It is an encouragement to notice that the Lord uses a great many ordinary vessels (1 Corinthians 1:26-30); but he does not only use ordinary vessels. Some are extra-ordinary, for 1 Corinthians 1:26 does not say, “Not any of you were wise by human standards, not any were influential; not any were of noble birth”, but the word is “not many…” which implies that He does call some wise, influential and noble people into His service. We rejoice that the Lord uses a great variety of people (1 Corinthians 12:1-25 and Ephesians 4:10-13)! Now notice the next important truth:-

THE VESSELS THAT GOD USES MUST BE AVAILABLE

There are three words or phrases to notice here in verse 21:-

(1) Notice the words ‘made holy’. What do they mean? – “set apart for a holy purpose” or, available for the Lord to use. Could that be said of you? Have you made your life available to the Lord for Him to use you? Are you at His disposal? (2 Samuel 15:15).

(2) Notice the phrase “useful to the Master”, meaning – “ready for the Lord to use”. Could that be said of you? – look up and compare 2 Timothy 4:11 and Philemon 11.

(3) Notice the phrase “prepared to do any good work”, meaning – “ready for anything” – look up and compare the case of Philip who was ready to preach to the crowd in Samaria (Acts 8:5), and just as ready to leave the crowd and go to preach to one man in the desert (Acts 8:26). Are you ready for anything?

But it is very important to notice that there is one special condition that must be met before God can use us:-

THE VESSELS THAT GOD USES MUST BE CLEAN

Notice how verse 21 begins. After all, we would not use dirty utensils in the dining-room or the kitchen. God can use anyone or anything, but Scripture states that those whom God uses must be clean. We must have clean hearts to worship Him (Psalm 51:10); clean hands to work for Him (Psalm 24:4); clean feet to walk for Him (Psalm 119:9); and clean lips to speak for Him (Isaiah 6:5) – look up Isaiah 52:11. So before God can use us we must be cleansed from everything that is contrary to His will – wrong associations (2 Corinthians 6:14-18); unclean habits (compare verse 22); and from doubtful things. Notice the words – “If a man cleanses himself…” We are to do the cleansing; the action is ours, not God’s – look up 2 Chronicles 29:15-16 and 2 Corinthians 7:1.

In conclusion, notice that in verse 21 we read, “If a man cleanses himself…he will be an instrument for noble purposes.” What does this mean? The late Canon Guy King suggests that the vessel is not to be honored, but the vessel is to bring honor to the Lord. This is a very challenging thought with which to close this study.

S 29:25; and compare the words of the Lord Jesus – Matthew 5:10-12. The Holy Spirit has been given to us in order that we may be freed completely from the fear of man, the fear of reproach, and the fear of persecution and of suffering – look up 1 Peter 4:14-19.

The fear of death. This is mentioned in verses 9-10. What a mystery death is, and what an enemy! All of us by nature are afraid of death; but the Holy Spirit has been given to us that we may be freed from all fear of death, because -–see what it says in verse 10. Are you afraid of death? Ask the Holy Spirit, who dwells within you, to drive out your fear.

The fear of judgment. This is mentioned in verses 12 and 18, and in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 – compare Hebrews 10:27. Notice the last three words in 2 Timothy 1:12 – “for that day”. These words refer to the day when Christians will be present at the Judgment Seat of Christ. We need have no fear that we shall be judged for our sins, for Christ has borne our judgment in His death upon the Cross – look up John 5:24 and compare Romans 8:1.

The Holy Spirit dwells within us to deliver us from fear: the fear of reproach and persecution, the fear of death and the fear of judgment.

HE INDWELLS US TO EMPOWER US

“God has given us the Spirit of power” – compare Luke 24:49 and Acts 1:8. What is the power which the Holy Spirit gives to us? It is Himself. In what way is He our power? How does His power within us manifest itself? The answer is – in Christ-like living and witnessing. Timothy was timid about witnessing, as verse 8 makes quite clear, so Paul tells him that God has given him the Spirit of power to make him a living, vital, powerful witness – and surely that is our great need! We need the power of the Holy Spirit to make us effective witnesses for the Lord just where He has placed us, in the home, the business, the workshop etc. We need power to be holy – (1 Thessalonians 4:7-8); power to be courageous (Acts 4:29); power to pray (Acts 4:31); power to suffer (Acts 5:41); and maybe, power to die for the Lord (Acts 7:54-60). Do you feel far too weak to live and to labor for the Lord? Rely upon the Holy Spirit, who dwells within you, to give you power.

HE INDWELLS US TO ENRICH US WITH LOVE

This is the first mark of a Spirit-filled life; the one quality that should characterize us as Christians. The Lord Jesus said to His disciples – look up John 13:34-35, and compare Galatians 5:22. How we need to be filled with love! – Compare Romans 5:1-5. But it is not enough, when we are conscious of our need of love, to screw ourselves up and say, ‘I am going to be more loving.’ Such resolution will not make us more loving. This love, which is the sum of holiness (for in Romans 13:10 we read that “Love is the fulfilment of the law”), is reproduced in us by the Holy Spirit. Read through 1 Corinthians chapter 13 and thank God that the Holy Spirit dwells in you to enrich your whole life with love.

HE INDWELLS US TO GIVE US SELF-DISCIPLINE

The Holy Spirit, who dwells within us, is wonderfully described in Isaiah 11:2. The Holy Spirit living in us promotes self-discipline which is revealed in wisdom, understanding, knowledge and right living. We have all these in the Person of the Holy Spirit. He gives to us discernment and understanding and knowledge of the will of God, so that we may live lives that are pleasing to God and useful in His service.

In this study we have considered the Holy Spirit’s work in the believer. There is one thing to add in conclusion. The measure in which we shall experience His working in us will depend on our full surrender to Him and to His will.

EVERY OPPOSITION AND DISCOURAGEMENT.

There is no doubt that Noah suffered opposition and must have been discouraged. How many times he must have been tempted to ask, ‘Is it worthwhile?’ or ‘Am I mistaken after all?’ What cruel taunts he would have borne from the godless crowd around him! – ‘Surely you are mad!’ they would say. How does the opposition we have to bear compare with that of Noah? – Look up 1 Corinthians 10:13;

2 Corinthians 4:8-9; Galatians 6:9.

THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO ACCEPT GOD’S JUDGMENT WITHOUT QUESTIONING HIS JUSTICE.

One day God revealed to Noah that He was planning to send a flood and to destroy every living thing upon the earth – look up Genesis 6:7; and Noah said, in effect – Genesis 18:25! You see, Psalm 19:9 is always true. We must remember the severity of God as well as His goodness – look up Romans 11:22. Elijah prayed for a drought, – look up James 5:17; Noah took sides with God in His intention to send a flood, – look up Genesis 6:22. There is another judgment coming to the earth – look up 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9;

2 Peter 3:9-14. The work of faith is to live and work in the light of this solemn fact.

THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO PROCLAIM THE MESSAGE OF GOD HOWEVER SOLEMN AND UNACCEPTABLE IT IS.

There are two sides to Noah’s message: (I) ‘There is salvation for all who will enter the ark; (ii) there is judgment for all who will not enter the ark.’ In New Testament language, and in the words of our Lord, Noah’s message was – look up Mark 16:16. We should be continually crying out like John the Baptist – look up Matthew 3:7; only by doing so can we ‘condemn the world’ – look up Hebrews 11:7, which means to ‘leave the world without excuse’ – compare Ezekiel 33:6 with 2 Corinthians 5:20.

THE WORK OF FAITH SECURES THE REWARD OF FAITH.

In Hebrews 11:7 we read that Noah ‘in holy fear built an ark to save his family’, and that he ‘became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.’ So, not only was Noah accepted by the Lord because of his faith, but also Noah’s loved ones were saved as the result of Noah’s work of faith. What a reward! – look up 2 Chronicles 15:7. Are you exercising faith in the Lord for the salvation of your loved ones? Are you doing something for their salvation? – Look up Mark 9:23, and compare Acts 16:31. Is your faith working? – Look up James 2:20 and 26.

THE OBEDIENCE OF FAITH – ABRAHAM

(Scripture Portions: Hebrews 11:8-10; Genesis 12:1-9)

THE INSPIRATION OF THE BIBLE

(Scripture Portion: 2 Timothy 3:1-17. Key verses: verses 15-17)

Paul firmly believed in the inspiration and the authority of the Scriptures, and he reminded Timothy that he had known these from his infancy – verse 15. The number of people with a Christian background is decreasing, and consequently there is much ignorance of spiritual things today. In this time of increasing unbelief, we must have no doubts about the Divine inspiration and authority of the Scriptures! Notice three vital things in our verses:-

THE HOLY SCRIPTURES ARE INSPIRED

When Paul wrote the word ‘all’ he referred only to the thirty-nine Old Testament books, for the New Testament was then in the process of being written; but the same Holy Spirit who inspired the Old Testament also inspired the writing of the twenty-seven books of the New Testament. Verse 16 tells us that “all Scripture is God-breathed”, or “given by inspiration of God” (KJV). In a broad sense everyone believes in the inspiration of the Bible – but not everyone means the same thing when they use the word ‘inspiration’ in reference to the Bible. What do we mean when we speak of the inspiration of the Bible? Notice some of the things we do not mean:-

We do not mean Natural Inspiration, the inspiration which is purely human genius. Poets and musicians are inspired, but only by a natural inspiration.

We do not mean merely that the Bible is an Inspiring Book. Of course it is, but so is “Pilgrim’s Progress” and so are hundreds of other books.

We do not mean Partial Inspiration. There are those who say that parts of the Bible are inspired and parts are not; or, to put it another way, that the Bible contains the Word of God. This, however, is quite illogical. Who is qualified to decide which parts are inspired and which are not? Where can you find two people anywhere who will agree on this?

We do not mean Progressive Inspiration. Those who accept this theory say that the later books included in Scripture are more inspired than the earlier books. Genesis (they say) is not fully inspired and therefore it is not authoritative and reliable; on the other hand (they say) the Gospels are inspired!

We do not mean the Inspiration of the Thoughts only, or the ideas that are expressed. Thoughts can only be accurately expressed by the very careful choice and use of words. Inspired thoughts might be imperfectly expressed if the inspiration did not extend to the words as well as the thoughts.

The above makes it clear that when people say they believe in the inspiration of the Bible we need to clarify what they mean. What does the Bible teach about this? It declares that the whole Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, was God-given; as verse 16 tells us – “All scripture is God-breathed” – or literally, ‘out of God’. Therefore we believe that the Bible is absolutely reliable, trustworthy and authoritative. In 2 Peter 1:21 we read of the way in which God inspired the writers of the books of the Bible by overseeing their work so that what they wrote was absolutely correct in every detail in the original documents. This means that:- “The Bible as we now have it, in its various translations, when freed from all errors and mistakes of translators, copyists and printers, is the very Word of God, and consequently is wholly reliable and without error.”

THE HOLY SCRIPTURES ARE INSTRUCTIVE

In verse 16 Paul tells us that the scriptures are profitable in four ways – for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. Notice that he is careful to say that all scripture is profitable in one or other or all of these ways. This means that every part of the inspired Word is adapted to our needs. Consider the four particular ways that are mentioned:-

For TEACHING. Is there anything we need more than this – to become fully acquainted with the great teaching and doctrines of the Bible? We must study the Word of God, where we have a statement of true doctrine.

For REBUKING. This tells us that the Word of God is the instrument that the Holy Spirit uses in order to rebuke us and to produce conviction of sin (John 16:8 and Acts 2:37).

For CORRECTING. This word tells us that the scriptures not only show us where we are wrong but they also show us how to get back on to the right path. They are the instrument the Holy Spirit uses to ‘convert’, or turn us – look up Psalm 19:7.

For Training in RIGHTEOUSNESS. The scriptures give us God’s standards of holiness and right living and they tell us how we may attain to these standards. They are the only instrument that the Holy Spirit uses to accomplish the will of God in the child of God.

Now we shall only gain the ‘profit’ that the scriptures can give us if we read them (Acts 17:11); if we study the Bible (2 Timothy 2:15); and if we apply what we read to our lives (Hebrews 4:2) – and compare Joshua 1:8.

THE HOLY SCRIPTURES ARE INSTRUMENTAL

Notice here that the Lord does two things through the scriptures: First: to make us “wise for salvation…” (Verse 15); and second: to make us “thoroughly equipped for every good work…” (Verse 17). In other words:-

The Holy Scriptures are the instrument God uses to affect our Salvation. How does God convey His message of love and grace to sinful men? – Verse 15 tells us. There is only one book in the world that contains the specific and the authoritative message of John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 Timothy 1:15; and Revelation 22:17. God’s plan of salvation is only made in the Scriptures, and therefore these alone can make us “wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” – look up Acts 4:12.

The Holy Scriptures are the instrument that God uses to affect our Sanctification. Verse 17 tells us that when God saves us (verse 15) His plan and purpose is that we should become complete, mature and fully-equipped. As we read, study, receive and apply the Word of God to our lives the Holy Spirit does His sanctifying work in us – look up and compare Psalm 119:9; John 17:17 and 2 Peter 1:4.

Let us treasure this wonderful, inspired Word of God.

Idolaters, unbelievers, and that they worshipped many false gods, including the sun, the moon and the stars; and as is always the case where God is not known and loved, they lived lives which were degraded and morally bad.

One day, Abraham, who lived in the city of Ur, heard God speaking to him – look up Genesis 12:1; and immediately He had finished speaking to him, Abraham obeyed God – as we learn from Genesis 12:4; Hebrews 11:8-10. Abraham knew quite definitely that God had spoken to him, – ‘even though he did not know where he was going.’ This was the obedience of faith.

Let us notice five aspects of the obedience of faith as illustrated in this particular period of Abraham’s life.

ABRAHAM’S OBEDIENCE WAS PROMPT.

This is clearly brought out by a comparison of Genesis 12:1 and 4; Hebrews 11:8. How God spoke we do not know, but that He did speak we are quite sure, and directly Abraham heard His command, in faith he obeyed. His obedience was prompt. When God speaks to us it is sometimes very difficult to explain the ‘how’ of it. That He has spoken we are sure, and all that we have to do is promptly to obey His voice. For three New Testament illustrations of the obedience of faith and of obedience with liveliness, read Acts 8:26-30; 9:10-17; 10:9-33. Is God speaking to you? – look up and compare

1 Samuel 15:22 and John 2:5.

ABRAHAM’S OBEDIENCE WAS PRACTICAL.

We are told in Genesis 12:4 that when God spoke to him, ‘Abraham left as the Lord had told him.’ Abraham’s faith was not a hazy, nebulous belief; it was active – read Hebrews 11:8-10 again! Faith obeys God by launching out upon His promises and by doing His bidding without question. If faith does not work it is dead – look up James 2:17, 20. Abraham’s faith did work, and what an upheaval this meant in his life – with the packing up of all his goods, saying goodbye to all his friends and moving out to do God’s will! Has God spoken to you? If so, some very practical action must demonstrate your faith in Him; you must obey Him.

ABRAHAM’S OBEDIENCE WAS PROGRESSIVE.

When Abraham left Ur, this was only the first step of faith. But one step of faith will always lead on to another, and another – look up Psalm 37:23. Turn to Genesis 12, and notice the progressiveness of Abraham’s faith in this first stage of his experience:

Verse 4 – ‘Abraham left…’

Verse 5 – ‘Abraham set out…’

Verse 6 – ‘Abraham travelled through…’

Verse 8 – ‘Abraham went on…’

Verse 9 – ‘Abraham set out and continued…’

God’s desire is that the principle of faith should operate throughout every part of our lives. He wants us to trust Him, not only for spiritual needs but also for temporal needs – look up and compare Matthew 7:11; Luke 11:13.

ABRAHAM’S OBEDIENCE WAS PECULIAR.

By all human standards, it was a very strange thing that Abraham did – suddenly to pick up all his belongings, gather his family together, leave his home, his family and friends, and go off to an unknown destination. The non-Christian says, ‘Why has that fellow given up his job?’ ‘Why has that girl, who has just become a Christian, given up her unconverted fiancé?’ ‘Why is that fellow going to waste his life as a missionary? I call it foolish!’ But is it foolish? No, not if God has spoken and if faith is obeying. It may be peculiar in the eyes of the world, but it is very pleasing in the eyes of God – look up Matthew 5:10-12, and compare Exodus 19:5.

ABRAHAM’S OBEDIENCE WAS PRODUCTIVE.

By simply hearing God’s voice and doing His will, Abraham produced something for the glory of God and for the blessing of millions – look up and compare Genesis 12:2 and 22:18. Here we learn that God wonderfully multiplies our simple acts of faith and obedience. Turn to Genesis 26:2-5, where God is explaining this to Isaac: and as you conclude this study, look up Deuteronomy 11:26-28.

Let us pray that we may have grace to hear God’s voice and always to do His will, promptly and in a practical way; and that we may not mind if others think our actions are peculiar. Let us also believe that God will make our obedience productive, to His glory and to the blessing of many.

THE TRIAL OF FAITH – ABRAHAM

(Scripture Portions: Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-19)

Verses 17-19. Here we have brought before us what was surely Abraham’s supreme act of faith, in which he offered up Isaac his son as a burnt offering to the Lord. Notice that Abraham and Sarah are also mentioned in Hebrews 11:11-12 in connection with the birth of Isaac, and what a very wonderful illustration of faith this is! – read the verses carefully and then turn to Romans 4:18-21. Contrary to all human hopes and to the laws of nature, Abraham trusted God to perform His word and fulfil His promise. That is what faith is, and in Genesis 21:1-3 we see how safe it is to trust God and how perfect His timing is. When we compare Hebrews 11:17-19 with Genesis 22:1-19, we have a historical record which perfectly illustrates the very heart of the gospel.

ABRAHAM is a type of God the Father – look up John 3:16; Romans 8:32; 1 John 4:14.

ISAAC is a type of the Lord Jesus – look up Psalm 40:6-8; Philippians 2:5-8.

THE RAM is a type of Substitution, of the fact that the Lord Jesus took our place when He died upon the cross – look up Isaiah 53:5; Hebrews 10:5-10; 1 Peter 2:24.

HEBREWS 11:19 tells us that Abraham believed that God would raise up Isaac – look up 1 Corinthians 15:1-4.

The two statements which pinpoint the emphasis of this study are Genesis 22:1 – ‘Some time later God tested Abraham’; and Hebrews 11:17 – ‘By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac.’ Where there is true faith in God, that faith will always be tried and tested. It is impossible to be a believer and not be tested – look up Hebrews 12:5-11; 1 Peter 1:7. Not only is it true that faith will be tested, but it is the Lord who does the testing. He may use many agencies, but He is the one who directs the testing’s of our faith – notice in Genesis 22:1 that ‘God tested Abraham…’ – or look up 1 Kings 12:24. So precious is the testing of faith to God, and so profitable is it to the child of God, that we should not only expect it but rejoice in it – look up James 1:2; knowing that it is our living and sovereign Lord who is directing the testing of our faith, and that His hand will never cause His child a needless tear. Let us notice three aspects of the trial, or the testing, of faith.

THE MEASURE OF FAITH’S TESTING.

How much is faith tested? It is clear that some are, or appear to be, tested more than others. For example, not all are tested to the same extent as Abraham, Job or Paul. Is there any ruling principle which will give us an explanation of the degree of testing? Yes, there is: faith is tested according to the measure of faith. There are degrees of faith, which fact we quickly learn by a comparison of Mark 4:40; Matthew 6:30; 17:20; Luke 17:5; 7:9 (the references should be looked up in that order). To offer Isaac was not Abraham’s first test of faith, it was nearly his last! He would not have been ready for this great trial at the beginning of his experience of faith in God. This is all true in our experience. We begin by trusting God simply for pardon, but as we go on we learn to trust Him in ten thousand other ways and for ten thousand other matters. As faith grows it is tried and tested according to its measure; but have no fear – look up 1 Corinthians 10:13.

THE MANNER OF FAITH’S TESTING

In other words, how is faith tested? The Bible is packed full of illustrations of men and women whose faith was tested. Sometimes in the testing of faith our affections are touched, as was the case with Abraham in the portion we are considering, and we hear the Lord saying to us, ‘My child, put back into My hands what I have given you.’ Sometimes the test comes in the realms of our bodies, as was the case with Paul – look up 2 Corinthians 12:7-9. Sometimes the trial of faith involves the loss of position, the upsetting of our carefully laid plans, the seemingly mysterious intervention of God’s hand; but faith’s testing is always for God’s glory and for our good, and our part is to rejoice in the truth of Job 23:10; Romans 8:28.

THE MEANING OF FAITH’S TESTING

Why does God test our faith? There is a sense in which faith must never ask ‘Why?’ because faith trusts the Lord and leaves the ‘Why’s’ to Him; and yet it is true to say that God has told us in His Word some reasons why He tests our faith:

God tries our faith to prove the genuineness of it. Only when faith is tested is the reality of faith proved and demonstrated – compare Genesis 22:1 and 12; it was as if God said, ‘Abraham, do you trust me? All right! Prove it!’

God tries our faith to increase the measure of it. How strong Abraham’s faith was after he had trusted God for the gift of Isaac! – As Romans 4:20 tells us; but how much stronger it would have been after the experience of Genesis 22! He would then be able to say with Job – look up Job 13:15. A little tree is strengthened by the wind; that is, by adversity.

God tries our faith to secure the preciousness of it. 1 Peter 1:7 is a great verse, and it should always be read in conjunction with Malachi 3:3. The gold of our life is to His ‘praise, glory and honor’ when it is separated from the dross, and the trial of our faith is so precious because it brings about this separation.

God tries our faith to produce the fruit of it. This is what we learn from John 15:2, particularly in the last part of the verse. Our heavenly gardener is looking for fruit (verse 2), more fruit (verse 2), and much fruit (verses 5 and 8); and one method He employs for producing this increasing amount of fruit in the lives of His children is that of trial and testing. ‘Faith blossoms when the winds of trial blow the fiercest.’

God tries our faith to use the testimony of it. Read 2 Corinthians 11:23-28; Philippians 1:12, and then compare Acts 16:22-25, particularly noticing the last eight words in verse 25.

Here is a closing thought! God will always give back to us far more than He asks us to give up for Him. He may do the giving back in this life, but if not, He will most certainly grant us an abundant reward in the life to come – look up and carefully read

1 Peter 4:12-19.

Chapter7

A SOLEMN CHARGE TO MINISTERS

(Scripture Portions: 2 Timothy 3:1-12; 4:1-5. Key verses: 2 Timothy 4:1-5)

In our key verses we have Paul’s charge to Timothy to be a true and faithful minister of Christ. There is a very real sense in which every Christian is to be a minister, a servant of the Lord. This charge has therefore a message for every believer. Notice how the charge begins and ends. In the Authorized Version it reads: “I charge thee…to make full proof of thy ministry.” The New International Version renders it: “I give you this charge…discharge all the duties of your ministry.” Here Paul charges Timothy and every servant of Christ the responsibility to do – what? What is Paul’s solemn charge to ministers and to every Christian worker everywhere? There are three things in particular that are brought before us. They may be stated as follows:-

A MINISTER MUST HAVE A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF THE TIMES IN WHICH HE IS LIVING AND WORKING FOR THE LORD

The times in which we are living are described in verses 3 and 4. The Apostle was speaking prophetically, but his prophetic words have certainly come true. These are days of apostasy, when men are turning away from the truth (verse 4), and days of false teaching and unsound doctrine, “myths” (verses 3-4), are found on every hand. The roots of apostasy and heresy were already beginning to appear in the early Church, and the fruit of all this is around today, not only in the world among unbelievers but in the professing Church. There is a blatant denial of the truth of God’s Word; in place of the Divine revelation men have substituted “myths”, their own opinions which are in fact heresies. The “terrible times”, predicted by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:1, have come upon us; times in which many who profess to be ministers of Christ are in fact Satan’s ministers – look up 2 Corinthians 11:13-15. These “false apostles” do not preach the revealed truth of God, the saving Gospel of His Son; they preach “another gospel” – look up Galatians 1:6-8, and compare Jeremiah 5:31. Yes, verses 3 and 4 describe the times in which we are living, and every minister of Christ must be aware of them if he is to be effective in his responsibilities as a minister. Do please read these verses carefully and prayerfully, and recognize that we are living in the days of which Paul wrote. But we must not only be aware of the times in which we are living and working; we must do something positive, and this is the second thing that the Apostle mentions.

A MINISTER’S FIRST RESPONSIBILITY MUST BE TO PREACH THE WORD

Paul says this in verses 2 and 5. This is our first responsibility as ministers of Christ. We are, of course, to live consistent Christian lives and to adorn the doctrine that we preach (Titus 2:10, AV); we are to be careful and disciplined in our pastoral duties and our visitation; but first and foremost we are to preach the Word. Paul gives this commission to Timothy following his words in chapter 2, verses 16-17. We are to preach the Word because we have been commissioned to do this very thing – look up Matthew 28:19; and because this is the surest way to deal with the false teaching that is so evident today. The great need of our times is that men and women should hear the Word of God and that they should be confronted with the true teaching of the Gospel of the grace of God. Therefore Paul says in verse 2: “Be prepared in season and out of season” – or, as we might render this: “Be urgent and be on hand, available, always ready…” We are to preach:

The word of CONVICTION. This is indicated in the word ‘correct’ in verse 2, and it speaks of an appeal to the conscience. Hendrickson writes, “Sin must be brought home to the sinner’s consciousness in order that he may repent.” See John 16:8.

The word of REBUKE. This word in verse 2 speaks of an appeal to the reason. When we preach we must reprimand those who are living in sin and out of fellowship with God and we must reason with them in the Name of the Lord – look up Isaiah 1:18.

The word of ENCOURAGEMENT. The word ‘encourage’ in verse 2 speaks of an appeal to the will. What a ministry is open to the true pastor to bring real encouragement to the flock! The minister who preaches the word of encouragement will never lack a congregation.

The word of SALVATION. This is indicated in verse 5, in the injunction, “Do the work of an evangelist”, and it speaks of an appeal to the soul. This supremely is the minister’s task. He is to bring good news (John 3:16 and 1 Timothy 1:15).

Notice that the Apostle goes on to tell us how we are to engage in the work of preaching the Word. We are to do it: (1) “with great patience” (verse 2) – this speaks of the Manner in which we are to preach the Word; (2) with “careful instruction” (verse 2) – this speaks of the Method by which we are to preach the Word; and (3) with “endurance” (verse 5) – this suggests the Motive that should fill us as we engage in this holy task – compare 2 Corinthians 5:14. All this leads us to notice one more important point:-

A MINISTER MUST BE MOTIVATED BY THE SHORTNESS OF THE TIME AND THE SOLEMNITY OF THE JUDGMENT

Paul emphasized in verse 1 the solemnity of his charge to Timothy and to us. He tells us that the minister lives and works as in the very presence of God and of Jesus Christ; he lives and works in the light of the Judgment Seat of Christ, when he will be judged (1 Corinthians 3:11-15), and the judgment of the Great White Throne when the unsaved will be judged (Revelation 20:11-15); and he lives and works in the light of the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (Hebrews 9:28). These great facts all give him a sense of the solemnity of his task and the shortness of time that is available for service, and they motivate him to faithfulness and to true devotion to the Lord Himself.

A GREAT CHRISTIAN’S DYING TESTIMONY

(Scripture Portion: Romans 8:28-39. Key verses: 2 Timothy 4:6-8)

These three verses contain one of the greatest testimonies to Christian faith and victory in the midst of adverse circumstances and in the face of death. Paul was in a Roman prison when he wrote these words to Timothy. He was weak physically, and he knew that his death would probably be an agonizing one. What were his reactions in the face of this, and what kind of a testimony did Paul give? Verse 7 speaks of a victorious past, verse 6 of a peaceful present, and verse 8 of a blissful future.

THE BACKWARD LOOK: PAUL’S TESTIMONY WITH REGARD TO THE PAST

In verse 7 Paul described his past experiences by employing three pictures from different spheres.

As a FIGHTER. Paul pictures the Olympic Games and a wrestler engaged in a fierce contest in the public arena. With this in mind he said, “I have been in the arena for God, fighting desperately, and I have done my best!” This was a tremendous thing to say! Few people can look back and say truthfully through life they have done their best for the Lord; and notice that Paul described the fight as “the good fight” – now look up 2 Corinthians 11:23-30. However much we may be called upon to suffer for the Lord the fight is a good one because we have such a great Captain and we are fighting on the winning side.

As a RUNNER. Paul was still thinking of the Olympic Games, but he now uses the picture of the sprinter, and concerning the race he could say, “I have finished it!” – look up and compare John 17:4. The course which Paul ran was very carefully marked out, as Acts 9:15-16 assures us, and what a rough and difficult course it was! Many runners drop out before the end of the race, but Paul had grit as well as grace and kept going right to the end.

As a BELIEVER. What did Paul mean when he said, “I have kept the faith”? He meant: (1) ‘I have stood firm on the holy deposit of truth that was committed to my charge’ – look up 2 Timothy 1:13-14 and compare Jude 3. He also meant: (2) ‘I have kept the rules, I have played the game!’ As a fighter and a runner he had kept the rules of the contest. He also meant: (3) ‘I have kept my faith, my confidence. My trust in God has not wavered.’ What a tremendous testimony Paul was able to give as he looked back over his past life in the service of the Lord! But now notice he had something also to say about the present:-

THE UPWARD LOOK: PAUL’S TESTIMONY WITH REGARD TO THE PRESENT

We have this in verse 6. Paul was always ready – ready to preach and to suffer, to teach and to travel, and even ready to die. Literally the words of verse 6 should read: “I am being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has arrived.” These words tell us two things:-

Paul’s view of LIFE. Every Roman meal ended with a kind of sacrifice. A cup of wine was poured out to the gods as an offering. “Now,” says Paul, “my life is being poured out in continual sacrifice to my God.” This view of life transforms trouble and imparts endurance. Paul’s whole life had been given to God as an offering, and it had been poured out in His service. Whatever suffering He had permitted was for his sanctification and for the spread of the Gospel -–and that was all that mattered! Is your life a living sacrifice (look up Romans 12:1), and are you content that it should be poured out in service and perhaps in suffering for the Lord?

Paul’s view of DEATH. What is death for the Christian? It is a departure – not a departure into the dark but into the light; not a departure to Purgatory, for there is no Purgatory for the believer; not a departure to an unknown destination, but a departure to Heaven to be with the Lord – look up 2 Corinthians 5:8 and compare Philippians 1:21-24. The word ‘departure’ means ‘unloosing’. In 2 Corinthians 5:1-2 we read that we are in this earthly body longing for the time when we shall be released, or unloosed, and clothed upon with our new body.

Canon G.H. King has pointed out that this word ‘departure’ is (1) a prisoner’s word, indicating release from bondage; (2) a farmer’s word, suggesting the unyoking of an ox when the day’s work is done; (3) a warrior’s word, signifying the pulling up of the tent pegs so the victorious army may march home; (4) a seaman’s word, picturing the unmooring of a ship after it has been tied up in harbor; and (5) a philosopher’s word, suggesting the unravelling of knotty problems.

With this in mind, do you wonder that Paul said – look up Philippians 1:21? And that the Apostle John said – look up Revelation 14:12? And that the Lord says – look up Psalm 116:15?

Have you this upward look of quiet confidence in the Lord? Finally notice:-

THE FORWARD LOOK: PAUL’S TESTIMONY WITH REGARD TO THE FUTURE

In verse 8 Paul confidently looked ahead, and if you are a believer in our Lord Jesus Christ you can do the same. But if you say that you are not as great as Paul was, then notice how verse 8 ends, and in particular the little word ‘all’. Every believer may have this three-fold confidence:-

Absolute confidence in THE LIFE TO COME. Read verse 8 again. For the Christian, death does not end all, for there is a glorious assurance!

Absolute confidence in THE RETURN OF CHRIST. The last two words in verse 8 declare this, and the hope of Christ’s return was the constant inspiration of Paul. It was to him a purifying hope (1 John 3:3) and a sustaining hope (1 Thessalonians 4:18).

Absolute confidence in THE DAY OF REWARD. The reference here is to the laurel wreath which was given to the winner of the Grecian Games, and although Paul suffered tremendously in the service of the Lord, one day he would be rewarded – look up 1 Peter 5:4 and Revelation 22:14.

Will you seek grace from God to make Paul’s testimony your testimony?

BODILY SICKNESS AND DIVINE HEALING

(Scripture Portion: 2 Timothy 4:9-22. Key verse: 2 Timothy 4:20)

In our key verse Paul writes, “I left Trophimus sick in Miletus.” This man was from Ephesus and he was undoubtedly a fine Christian, a servant of God and a co-worker with Paul. The important thing for us to notice is that he was so ill that Paul had to leave him at Miletus. Why it was that Trophimus was not healed? He was God's child and God’s servant, and on a number of occasions Paul had exercised a healing ministry, but not on this occasion. With this little historic note about Trophimus and his sickness, let us ask and answer some pertinent questions concerning the whole subject of Divine Healing.

DO THE LORD’S PEOPLE SUFFER WITH ILLNESS?

By “the Lord’s people” we mean born again Christians. Do Christians suffer? Are they subject to illness and incapacity of body and mind? The answer is yes, and in some cases they are called upon to suffer from serious diseases, from which they die, sometimes at an early age. There are many Christians who are to a greater or lesser degree experiencing bodily suffering. This leads to a second question:

DOES THE LORD EVER HEAL HIS PEOPLE?

The answer to this question is also – yes. In Philippians 2:25-30 Paul writes about Epaphroditus, who was so ill that he “almost died”, but God had mercy on him. This means that God raised him up, no doubt in answer to Paul’s prayers. In Acts 9:36-43 we read of Dorcas, a sister in the church at Joppa, who died. When Peter came and had prayed, God raised her up and brought her back to life. All through the history of the Church there have been similar instances of God’s power in healing. Does God heal the sick today? Yes, He does. But this leads to a third question, and notice its exact phrasing:-

DOES THE LORD ALWAYS HEAL HIS CHILDREN?

The answer to this question is – no, He does not! Even though there has been much prayer and the sick person is a committed Christian, in many cases healing does not come. The illness remains, it persists – “I left Trophimus sick in Miletus.” We may be certain that Paul prayed for his friend. Now, please note this very carefully: there are those who teach that it is always God’s will to heal the sick and that no Christian has any right to endure sickness. The Bible, however, does not teach that it is always God’s will to heal the body, and the experience of tens of thousands of godly, dedicated Christians who are sick and suffering in body confirms the truth that God simply does not always heal His children, even in answer to earnest and persistent prayer. This leads us to ask and answer another question:-

WHY DO GOD’S PEOPLE EXPERIENCE BODILY SICKNESS?

One reason is that often sickness comes upon God’s children because they have broken the laws of healthy living. There is a promise at the end of Exodus 15:26, “I am the Lord who heals you”; but it is important to notice that it is given within the context of God’s laws relating to diet, cleanliness, work and relaxation, and here He promises that if His people will keep these laws they will remain healthy in body and mind. If a Christian ‘burns the candle at both ends’ he will suffer for it. If we neglect our diet and get insufficient rest and sleep, if we overwork and abuse our bodies, we must suffer in consequence – even though we are Christians and are God’s servants. This is one reason why Christians become ill.

Sometimes sickness comes upon Christians as the direct result of willful sin. We emphasize that this is not always the case, but sometimes it is, as 1 Corinthians 11:29-32 tells us. There were those in the church at Corinth who were undisciplined and careless, and because of this the Lord’s hand came upon them in judgment. Some of them were “weak and sick” – that is, they became ill; others went to “sleep”, that is, they died. This is very solemn, but it is clear teaching from the scriptures, and it is as applicable to us today as it was to the Christians in the first century.

When God permits sickness and suffering and withholds healing, He always has a loving purpose in view. Nothing happens by chance in the life of a Christian; nothing happens without God’s permission – look up Romans 8:28. God is our loving Heavenly Father, and yet He permits many of His children, as He permitted Trophimus, to remain sick.

WHAT IS GOD’S PURPOSE IN PERMITTING BODILY SICKNESS AND SUFFERING?

In order that He may draw us nearer to Himself. So often we do not feel our need of Him when we are strong in body and when all is going well with us, and so we experience what David wrote about in Psalm 23:2.

In order that we may be sanctified; that is, in order that He may do something in us that otherwise He could not do. Read Hebrews 12:5-11 and you will see that this truth is clearly stated, and do remember that the word “discipline” means “child training”. It is the ministry of a loving Heavenly Father in the life of His child. When we become ill we do not know what God’s purpose is, but we do know that He has a gracious purpose in it – look up John 13:7.

In order that our testimony may bless others. Paul longed for healing and prayed for it, and what tremendous blessing has been released into the lives of Christian people down the centuries through the answer that God gave the apostle when he prayed for healing! – look up 2 Corinthians 12:9.

We do believe that God is able to heal when it is His perfect will to do so, but we also recognize that there is a ministry of suffering as well as a ministry of healing. Are we able to rejoice in the fact that God’s will is best, whatever it is, and to say, “Whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord?” (Romans 14:8).

GOD’S WAY OF DELIVERANCE

(Scripture Portion: Romans 6:1-18. Key verse: 2 Timothy 4:18)

God’s purpose and provision for every Christian is a life of victory. This truth is emphasized in our key verse, which contains Paul’s dying confidence. Paul was an old man when he wrote and he was in prison awaiting his final trial before Nero. For thirty years he had known and served the Lord, and now, at the end of his earthly life and service, awaiting martyrdom, what were his reactions? Was he filled with self-pity and overwhelmed with discouragement and a sense of defeat? No – read 2 Timothy 4:18! What confidence this man had in the face of martyrdom! But Paul’s dying confidence should be the confidence of every living Christian. Perhaps you are defeated and overcome, you are in trouble and in distress; but you are God’s child and He is your God, and He wants you to have this holy confidence in Him and in His purpose. He wants you to know deliverance and glorious victory. Linked together in this verse are several victory secrets, as follows:-

A LIFE OF GLORIOUS VICTORY IS PROMISED BY THE LORD AND IS AVAILABLE TO EVERY BELIEVER

This is the message of our key verse, and how it challenges us, for is it not true that we are often defeated by sin, living on a low level of Christian experience and overcome when tempted? We worry and become anxious, we are fearful and apprehensive, we constantly become insecure and we often sin against the Lord. Is this the best that God has for us? Should this be the normal experience of a Christian or has God provided for victory? Yes, He has, and our verse tells us this. The Lord Jesus came to be our Savior (Matthew 1:21) and compare Hebrews 7:25. The great declaration of the letter to the Romans concerning the sanctification of the believer is – look up Romans 6:14. God’s plan is that we should be – Romans 8:37! It is God’s will that we should live a victorious life, enjoying victory over sin and self and victory in the middle of life’s trials.

THE VICTORY WHICH THE LORD PROMISES, AND WHICH IS POSSIBLE FOR EVERY BELIEVER, IS COMPLETE

It is not a partial victory. The deliverance is from “every evil attack” – that is, everything that is contrary to God’s will for us. Does this include victory in the midst of sorrow, loss, bereavement and trouble? It certainly does. It does not mean that we shall not have these things, but it means that when they come we shall be victorious in the midst of them. Paul was deserted by his friends, but the Lord delivered him from bitterness; he was imprisoned, but he was delivered from self-pity; he was lonely, but he was delivered from the sense of loneliness by the consciousness of the Lord’s own presence (2 Timothy 4:17); and he was waiting to be martyred, but he was delivered from fear. God’s plan and purpose is that we should be delivered from everything that is contrary to His will for us, and this includes the deadly work of the Devil, the subtle work of the world, and the insidious work of the flesh. It includes deliverance from fear, doubt, anxiety and worry; it includes the gift and enjoyment of His peace, His calm and His quiet confidence.

THIS LIFE OF VICTORY, WHICH THE LORD PROMISES TO AND PROVIDES FOR EVERY BELIEVER, IS NOT ONLY COMPLETE BUT IT IS CONTINUOUS

Paul knew that he did not have long to live – perhaps only a few weeks or months – but he was confident that the Lord would preserve Him to the end of the journey. Consider this for a moment: the Lord can keep us for one second, or for many years until He calls us into His immediate presence. He does not promise to bring us to any position in which we are unable to sin, but rather to bring us into a position of union with Himself and a sharing in His victory so that we are able not to sin. This is victory indeed!

THIS LIFE OF VICTORY IS THE ONLY LIFE THAT GLORIFIES GOD

Paul finished his great statement with the words, “To him be glory for ever and ever.” Does our sin and our failure glorify Him? When we are gripped by fear and overcome by doubts, does that glorify Him? No! These things do not glorify Him. The only life that glorifies the Lord is one which is being delivered from “every evil attack”.

THIS LIFE OF VICTORY IS NOT THE RESULT OF OUR TRYING, OUR EFFORT, OUR STRUGGLING OR OF OUR WORKING, BUT IT IS ALTOGETHER OF HIS DOING

Notice how careful Paul is to say, “The Lord will rescue me…” Why have we failed so often when we have been tempted to sin, or when we have been overwhelmed with troubles and trials? If we have failed, then each time it has been due to the fact that we have not let the Lord give us the victory. There are three secrets of entrance into this victorious Christian life. They are:-

Acknowledge. We must acknowledge our need, that we have failed and that we need the Lord Himself to give us deliverance and victory. We must recognize that the life of victory that God wants us to enjoy is impossible of human attainment.

Abandon. We must stop trying in our own strength to gain the victory, for we can never do it; it is beyond our powers – look up 1 Corinthians 15:57.

Appropriate. We must take the victory that God offers us, and as we acknowledge our desperate need we must abandon ourselves to the Lord and then appropriate the enabling that He gives us.

Notice how our key verse finishes: it finishes with the word ‘Amen’, which means ‘So let it be!’ Because it is the Lord’s plan and purpose for us to live a life of victory, because this is possible for each one of us and it is the only life that will glorify Him – ‘So let it be!’

THE PRAYER FOR A WICKED CITY

(Scripture Portion: Genesis 18:23-33)

There is little doubt that our first parents must have prayed, especially before the fall. In Genesis 4:26 we read that in the year of the birth of Enoch “men began to call on the Name of the Lord”. Probably this refers to some form of united prayer. In this first study we are to consider Abraham’s great prayer for the people who lived in the city of Sodom. Our study is based upon three facts: (1) Sodom was a very wicked city (Genesis 13:13; 18:20; Isaiah 1:9 and 3:9; and Lamentations 4:6. (2) God said that His judgment must fall upon Sodom (Genesis 18:20-21). (3) Abraham, moved with the desire for God’s glory and a love for the people of Sodom, prayed to the Lord and pleaded with Him to spare the people. We live in a city like Sodom, in a world that is full of sinners, and just as Abraham interceded for the people of Sodom so we are to plead for the multitudes of lost souls in our own city or in the world. Consider Abraham’s intercessory prayer, then, as a prayer for the salvation of souls. What are the characteristics of such a prayer?

It must be offered on the ground of a covenant relationship.

This is important (Genesis 15:18). Abraham was a believer. He was one of God’s people, he was “God’s friend” (James 2:23), and compare James 5:16. In Genesis 18:22 we read that Abraham “remained standing before the Lord” and in verse 23 that “Abraham approached him.” This man not only knew the Lord but he knew Him intimately; he was on close terms with Him. This is also brought out in Genesis 18:17-19. Are you God’s friend? – Look up John 15:15.

It must be offered in a spirit of true humility.

Notice that Abraham came in fear and trembling, with great reverence and with a sense of his own personal unworthiness – read Genesis 18:27 carefully! In addition to confessing his unworthiness, we read also that Abraham dreaded God’s displeasure. This is brought out in verses 30 and 32. One of the great statements in this connection is found in Isaiah 66:2, which should be compared with Daniel 9:3. Are you the kind of ‘servant’ God is looking for?

It must be offered with a deep conviction concerning the desperate need of men and women and with a deep

Compassion for their salvation.

Abraham believed that the people in Sodom were in great danger, and this moved him deeply to pray for their salvation. What did Abraham fear for the people? (Genesis 19:24-25). What is the immediate spiritual need of people around us who are not Christians? Consider the following:-

According to Luke 19:10, they are LOST.

According to John 3:16, they are PERISHING.

According to John 3:18, they are CONDEMNED.

According to John 3:36, they are UNDER WRATH.

According to 2 Corinthians 4:4, they are BLIND.

According to Ephesians 2:1, they are DEAD.

According to Ephesians 2:12, they have NO HOPE.

But more, their future prospect is a terrifying one (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9), and compare Matthew 8:12; 13:42; 22:13; 24:51; 25:10-12 and Luke 13:25-28. As you consider the need of those who are without Christ do you not feel as the queen felt, of whom we read in Esther 8:6? – look up and compare Exodus 32:32; Luke 19:41 and Romans 9:3.

It must be offered with a firm belief in God’s willingness to hear and answer prayer for their salvation.

It is moving to read Genesis 18:23-26 and to realize how willing God was to hear and to answer Abraham’s prayer! Each time Abraham made the request God said, ‘Yes…’, until Abraham stopped making a request. Why did he not go on praying? There is an element of mystery here and yet there were less than ten in Sodom who loved and belonged to the Lord. God’s judgment must fall upon sin and upon the sinner if he will not turn from his sin (Isaiah 55:6-7). But does God love sinners very much? Yes, He does (John 3:16 and Romans 5:8). Does He want men and women to perish? He does not (1 Timothy 2:4 and 2 Peter 3:9). Abraham had absolute trust in the justice of God. He said, “Such and such a thing is right; therefore God must do it” – this is the meaning of Genesis 18:25. But all this shows us something more:-

It must be offered with a sincere desire for God’s glory.

Was Abraham’s motive in praying for Sodom simply that Lot might be spared? After all, Lot was his own nephew, and it would be quite natural to desire that the city might be spared in order that Lot should be delivered. Genesis 19:29 tells us that Lot was spared for Abraham’s sake, but Abraham’s motive was the glory of God, and this is brought out in Genesis 18:23. For God to destroy the righteous with the wicked would be inconsistent with His character and His promises. When we pray for the salvation of loved ones and friends our motive must be the glory of God, otherwise we shall fall into the error of James 4:3 – look up Psalm 106:7-8 and Ephesians 1:3-6.

It must be offered with persistence.

“With strong, great wrestling souls are won” – and this truth is clearly brought out here. Abraham didn’t pray once, but six times. It was a prolonged and a persevering prayer. We quickly read the prayer in Genesis 18:23-33, but these prayers may have taken Abraham hours or days. Each time he prayed his faith grew, and this tells us how we should pray for souls.

It must be offered in the light of several other vital considerations.

The solemn responsibility of such prayer (1 Samuel 12:23).

The reflex blessing of such prayer (Job 42:10).

The hidden nature of such prayer (Matthew 6:6).

The essential condition of such prayer (John 15:7).

The certain result of such prayer (Jeremiah 33:3).

THE PRAYER FOR SPECIAL GUIDANCE

(Scripture Portion: Genesis 24:10-27)

In this chapter we have the account of Abraham’s commission to his chief servant to go in search of a bride for Isaac. Abraham was getting very old (Genesis 24:1) and Isaac at this time was over forty years of age and still unmarried. Please read verses 2-9 carefully. In verses 9 and 10 we have the record of the way this chief servant prepared for his journey and then set out to go to the city of Anchor in Mesopotamia, to look for a bride for Isaac. Abraham was much in prayer about this, as is suggested by the words at the end of verse 7; but so was Abraham’s servant, as verse 12 tells us. How could he possibly choose the right girl unless he received some special guidance in the matter? He not only needed guidance in a general sense, but he needed it in a very special sense, and here it is important to notice that the guidance that God gives to His children may be general or special.

THE PRAYER FOR GOD TO SPEAK

(Scripture Portion: 1 Samuel 3:3-10)

It was a tremendous experience for Samuel when the Lord spoke to him and when he was led humbly to pray, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (verse 9). It is also a tremendous experience for us when we meet together with other Christians for worship, or when we come alone before God at the Throne of Grace. At such times there is a two-way traffic of words: first, we speak to the Lord and our hearts go out to Him in adoration, praise and thanksgiving. This worshipping of the Lord is the quiet and humble expression of our hearts as we sit in His presence and meditate upon His love and goodness. But not only do we speak to the Lord, the wonderful thing is that He speaks to us! – Look up Acts 10:33. Whenever we draw near to God He speaks to us. To place the whole matter in right perspective, it is God who first speaks to us. He takes the initiative, and then we speak to Him. Look at this simple prayer of Samuel’s, “Speak, Lord; for your servant is listening”, and see what we learn from it:-

This prayer reveals a belief in the fact and an evidence of the fact that God does speak to His people.

Old Eli believed this, and Samuel proved this in his own experience. Three times Samuel thought Eli was calling him; then, at the old man’s word, he went back and prayed this wonderful prayer that God would speak to him, a prayer which is implicit with faith; Samuel believed that God did speak to people and would in fact speak to him. We are far removed from Samuel today but, thank God, He still speaks to His people! He does this by the Holy Spirit and through the Word of God. The important thing is – are we listening for His voice?

This prayer indicates a strong desire for God to speak.

When Samuel went before the Lord he said, “Speak, Lord…” He longed to hear God’s voice. What a great thing it is to hear what God has to say to us! We hear the voice of man so much. Have you a desire to hear God’s voice, to hear about His love for you (Romans 5:8); about His wondrous gift to you (Romans 6:23); about His salvation (Acts 4:12); about your acceptance before Him through faith in Christ (Ephesians 1:6); about your work and sport, leisure and home, about your future and His plan for your life, about Heaven and about eternity…? Have you a longing to hear His voice?

In this prayer we see the expectation that God will speak.

When Samuel lay down he expected that the Lord would say something to him. When you go to the House of God do you expect to hear the Lord’s voice? Do you say, in the words of David – look up Psalm 85:8? If you are expecting God to speak to you, you can be quite sure that He will not disappoint you. If you need guidance He will give it (Proverbs 3:5-6); if you need comfort, He will supply it (Isaiah 41:10); and if you require provision, He will provide for you (Philippians 4:19). Are you expecting Him to speak to you?

Samuel not only believed that God would speak, and desired and expected that He would do so, but he prayed that He would.

He prayed, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” He said, “I am waiting, Lord, waiting to hear your voice. Please speak to me!”

A friend once said to me, ‘Pray that you may never get into any place where God is not able to speak to you, and where you are not able to hear His voice.’ What sort of a place is this, where God cannot speak and we cannot hear His voice? It is any place of disobedience, of conscious rebellion, of willful sin, of refusal to do the will of God or to go in the way of God – look up Hebrews 12:25 and compare John 2:5.

This prayer contains the right attitude for one who wants to hear God’s voice.

What is the right attitude? It is one of humility. Samuel described himself as God’s “servant”. This indicates his submission to the Lord. It tells us that he had a lowly heart. He had a child-like spirit (Matthew 11:25-26). It is possible to be too big, too important, and too proud, to hear the voice of the Lord. It is when we get down low at Jesus’ feet in humility that we hear Him speak to us – look up

Luke 10:39.

This prayer teaches us the importance of a recognition of the lordship of the One who speaks.

Samuel addressed God as the Lord. He said “Speak, Lord…” He recognized the sovereignty, the lordship of the One to whom he was praying. This shows us that Samuel was ready to obey God, and he did obey God. He waited for the Lord to speak; and when He spoke, because it was the Lord who spoke, he obeyed Him – compare 2 Samuel 15:15 and Acts 9:6. In Samuel’s case, submitting to the Lord meant conveying a message of judgment to Eli – see 1 Samuel 3:17-18.

What are the benefits, the results, of hearing God’s voice and doing His will?

In 1 Samuel 3:19 we find a three-fold answer:-

Growth in grace – “Samuel grew…” How did he grow? By hearing God speak through His Word. This is the way we grow (2 Peter 3:18).

The conscious presence of the Lord. We are told that “the Lord was with Samuel”. If you are with someone and you never speak to that person or hear his voice, there is something wrong. But everything was right with Samuel, the Lord was with him – refer to 1 Samuel 3:21.

Usefulness in service. The Lord “let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground”.

THE PRAYER FOR TRUE PROSPERITY

(Scripture Portion: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10)

In 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 we read of Jibes who was a man of prayer. There is no doubt at all that he prayed for others, but the particular emphasis that is made in these two verses is that he prayed for himself. It is not selfish to pray for ourselves, for it is only as we are blessed that we can be made a blessing to others. It was when Jibes prayed for true prosperity, and the Lord answered that prayer, that he could be made a great blessing to other people. A careful study of the prayer of Jibes shows us that it contained four characteristics.

Jibes prayed intelligently. We are told that he “cried out to the God of Israel” – that is to say, the Covenant God, the true and living God. It is quite evident that Jibes had been instructed in the school of prayer, and therefore his prayer was informed and intelligent. Very much prayer is unintelligent and is therefore unprofitable (example in Luke 18:11-12). The fundamental condition of prayer is that we must know God as our loving Heavenly Father – look up Matthew 6, and compare verses 6 and 9.

Jibes prayed earnestly. Notice the intensity of his prayer. This is evident as he cried out to the Lord. He did not simply say, “Lord, bless me!” but “Oh, that you would bless me…!” We cannot fail to sense the reality and the passion that are present in this earnest cry to God. This must surely challenge us, for often we pray passionless, half-hearted prayers, and is it any wonder that such prayers do not reach the Throne of Grace? – Look up Genesis 32:26, and compare Luke 11:5-10 and Luke 18:1-8.

Jibes prayed definitely. He knew what he wanted and he asked for what he wanted; there was nothing haphazard about his praying. His prayer was preceded by careful thought and meditation, and when he came to the moment of presenting his petition he was able to make his request in clearly defined terms. How important it is to be definite when we pray! – Look up 1 Samuel 1:10-11.

Jibes prayed effectually. When Jibes prayed, “God granted his request”. There is tremendous encouragement in these words, for the God of Jibes is our God, and just as God answered this man’s prayer so He has pledged His word to do the same for us – look up and compare Jeremiah 33:3; Mark 11:24; John 15:7 and James 4:2.

These, then, are the four characteristics of this amazing prayer that Jibes offered for himself. Now notice from this prayer of jibes how to pray that God will give you true prosperity. In verse 10 we are told that Jibes prayed for four things. They are clearly mentioned, and we cannot do better than follow this man’s example and pray as he prayed:-

We should pray for Grace. Jibes prayed, “Oh, that you would bless me…!” What did he mean by this request? Every believer is already wonderfully blessed (Ephesians 1:3); but surely Jibes was praying for God’s blessing that he might be the man God wanted him to be – see what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:10. We can only be what God wants us to be by His grace; therefore let us pray for grace, and there is plenty of grace available (2 Corinthians 9:8). In 1 Chronicles 4:9 there is the hint of a possible reason why Jibes needed special grace, for his name means ‘Sorrowful’. Perhaps there was some secret tragedy concerning his birth, but whatever it was he needed grace, and of course he received it, just as we will receive the grace we need (2 Corinthians 12:9).

We should pray for Growth. How beautiful it is to hear Jibes saying to the Lord, “Oh, that you would…enlarge my territory!” – compare 2 Peter 3:18. Many Christians are content to remain in a state of spiritual babyhood (1 Corinthians 3:1-2). We need to pray that the Lord will enlarge our territory, increase our capacity, deepen our faith, inflame our love, give us more opportunities, make us more usable and conform us more to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). It is a very costly thing to ask the Lord to enlarge your territory as undoubtedly it will mean testing, for it is by testing that we grow. Without testing we remain dwarfs, we remain flabby and ineffective, but if the Lord is to make us strong for Him we must be tested (1 Peter 1:7).

We should pray for Guidance. Jibes prayed…“Let your hand be with me.” The hand of God is an expression that denotes the power of the living God in action (Ezra 7:9), and compare Psalm 139:5. God wants us to live a guided life (Psalm 37:23). He has made provision for our lives to be ‘ordered’, as Whittier has expressed it so beautifully:-

“Drop Thy still dews of quietness,

Till all our strivings cease;

Take from our souls the strain and stress:

And let our ordered lives confess

The beauty of Thy peace.”

How glorious it is when striving, strain and stress are taken out of our lives and when, because the hand of the Lord is with us and upon us, we are able to live ordered lives and experience the beauty of His peace!

We should pray for Godliness. Jibes prayed that God would keep him from evil, “that it may not grieve me” (KJV), or, “that it might not spoil my life.” What a prayer to pray! It reminds us of 2 Timothy 4:18 and, thank God, the Lord is able to deliver us from evil and to enable us to live a life that is glorifying to Him, a life that is pure, holy and Christ-like!

In verse 9 Jibes is described as God’s “honorable” man. Why is this? What is the secret of becoming one of God’s honorable ones? The secret is – prayer, much prayer and more prayer – look up 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

THE PRAYER FOR DIVINE QUICKENING

(Scripture Reference: Psalm 80:18)

The word we shall consider in this study is the word “quicken” (or “quickening”). It means “to give life and to preserve life” and “to be made alive”. This covers our basic needs, because we need to receive life and to be preserved by life; we need to receive life initially, which takes place at the time of conversion, but we also need to be preserved by life continually, which refers to God’s work of sanctification From the scriptures we learn two things:-

The HOLY SPIRIT is the one who GIVES LIFE (quickens) – look up and compare John 6:63 and 2 Peter 3:18.

The WORD OF GOD is the INSTRUMENT the Holy Spirit uses to accomplish this work – we learn this from many references in the Scriptures and Romans 4:17 and Romans 8:11 illustrate this.

1. It is through God’s Word that the Holy Spirit quickens us with new life, so that we become partakers of the Divine nature.

Ephesians 2:1 tells us that we are by nature spiritually dead, and that when the miracle of the New Birth takes place we are born again by the quickening work of the Holy Spirit. We also learn from 1 Peter 1:23 and 2 Peter 1:4 that the Word of God is the instrument used by the Holy Spirit “so that through them you may participate in the divine nature…”; it is the “seed” of the new life which is dropped into our souls and which makes us “alive to God” (Romans 6:11). A Christian is one who is born again (John 3:3, 6, 8), and who receives the new life of the Risen Lord (John 1:12-13).

It is through God’s Word that the Holy Spirit quickens us in our desires to pray and guides our praying.

It is the indwelling Holy Spirit who prompts us to pray, and for an illustration of this turn to Acts 9:9-11. Immediately after his conversion, and as an evidence that he really had been converted, Saul of Tarsus prayed (verse 11)! This is the first exercise of the new life – look up Luke 18:13. As Christians we are frequently conscious of the Holy Spirit within us urging us to pray. He leads us to the place of prayer and then He shows us how to pray (Romans 8:26-27). Think how the disciples needed this quickening when they were in Gethsemane – look up Matthew 26:36-44.

It is through God’s Word that the Holy Spirit quickens us when we are in danger of getting slack, dull and careless.

See what Psalm 71:20 says, where the operative word is “again”. The psalmist had fallen and he needed to be lifted up and revived. It is easy for us to get spiritually out of touch with the Lord and to become disobedient (Jonah 1:1-3); to deny the Lord (Luke 22:54-62); to turn away from Him (John 6:66); to become carnal (1 Corinthians 3:1-4); to walk in the flesh (Galatians 5:16,25); to allow wrong attitudes (Philippians 4:2); and to become lukewarm (Revelation 3:15-16). At such times we need the quickening work of the Holy Spirit to renew our love for the Lord and our determination to please Him.

It is through God’s Word that the Holy Spirit quickens us when we are in bondage and sets us free.

How easy it is to get into bondage to sin (Romans 6:12); to self (Romans 6:16); and to Satan (Luke 22:31)! In Psalm 119:153 the Psalmist prayed, “Look upon my suffering and deliver me, for I have not forgotten your law.” The Lord Jesus Himself, from the Throne, is the great Liberator, as we learn from John 8:36; but He liberates us by the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, as we learn from Romans 8:2, and the medium through which He works is the Word of God.

5. It is through God’s Word that the Holy Spirit instructs us in the way of righteousness and enables us to please God.

Many times in Psalm 119 the psalmist prays that God would show him the right way and enable him to walk in that way. This is exactly what the Holy Spirit does as we turn to God’s Word with the desire to hear Him speaking to us (Psalm 119:18); as we meditate upon what we read (verse 15); as we compare scripture with scripture (Acts 17:11). This is the only way to discover the kind of life God wants us to live and to receive His enabling to live it.

It is through God’s Word that the Holy Spirit draws us away from worldly living and sets our minds and affections on things above.

How can we be weaned away from worldly living and become absorbed with those things which are glorifying to the Lord? Colossians 3:1-2 will help us. How easy it is for us to live only for this world, and what a tragedy it is when this happens! See 1 John 2:15-17.

7. It is through God’s Word that the Holy Spirit comforts and sustains us in times of trial and affliction.

Turn to Psalm 119:92-93, where the writer is saying in effect, ‘If God hadn’t quickened me when I was in trouble I would have perished. But God did quicken me, and He did it through His Holy Word.’ At such times we should always turn to the Word of God.

In conclusion, notice again that the Holy Spirit is the one who quickens, but we must do two things: (1) “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18); (2) “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” (Colossians 3:16).

THE PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL ILLUMINATION

(Scripture Reference: Psalm 119:18)

The prayer of David: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.” Our object will be to see exactly what it tells us and then to suggest ways in which we should pray this prayer, for it is a prayer which should arise from our hearts every time we read God’s Word. If we consider Psalm 119:18 carefully we shall see that this one petition embodies five truths. First of all we learn that:-

The Bible is a unique book. In this section of the psalm it is described as “your word” (verse 17); “your law” (verse 18); “your commands” (verse 19); “your laws” (verse 20); “your statutes” (verses 22 and 24); “your decrees” (verse 23), and the emphasis in each case is upon the word ‘your’. The Bible is unique because it is God’s Book; He is the Author. David’s Bible was much smaller than ours, but now we have in the completed canon of Scripture 66 books, all of which are unique as they are inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21).

The Bible contains wonderful things. David says this in his prayer, and when we think of the scope of the Bible’s contents – its histories, types, poetry, doctrines and its prophecies – we at once begin to realize how wonderful it is. It tells us about God, man, sin, death, heaven, hell and eternity, and above all about the amazing salvation that is in the Lord Jesus Christ – look up 2 Timothy 3:15.

Before we can see the wonderful things our eyes must be opened. It was this that David prayed for – that he might “see” these things hidden in God’s Word. We are just like the two who were walking on the Emmaus road (Luke 24:13-35). As we pray the prayer of Psalm 119:18 the Lord Himself comes near, revealing Himself to us and opening our eyes, so that our hearts burn within us and we hold fast to His statutes (verses 31-35). Compare 1 Corinthians 2:14.

Only God can open our eyes to see the wonderful things in His Word. What we need is spiritual illumination, like that given to Peter at Caesarea Philippi (Matthew 16:13-18; compare Matthew 11:25 and Psalm 16:11).

To gain this illumination we must pray David’s prayer every time we come to God’s Word.

How should we pray? What things should we pray to see? There are three ways in which we, as individuals, should pray.

“Open my eyes that I may…” see myself and the sinfulness of sin.

We should begin here when we pray, for we were born in sin (Psalm 51:5); we have committed sin (Isaiah 53:6); and we only ever see ourselves and our sin as we look into God’s Word and He opens our eyes! In these days we are inclined to think that because of the progress man has made in so many areas, that our hearts are not so bad after all. Scripture teaches us the sinfulness of the human heart – Genesis 6:5; Isaiah 1:5-6; Isaiah 64:6-7; Jeremiah 17:9; Matthew 15:19; Ephesians 2:1-3. Now read about Lot’s backsliding (Genesis 19:1-38), Achkan’s deceitfulness (Joshua 7:19-23), David’s impurity (2 Samuel 11:1-27), Peter’s denial (Luke 22:54-62) and Diotrephes’ pride (3 John 9). Are we any better by nature? When God shows us ourselves the revelation is very humbling. It was for Job (Job 40:4); for Isaiah (Isaiah 6:5); for the bride (Song of Songs 1:5-6); for David (Psalm 22:6); for Peter (Luke 5:8); for the Prodigal (Luke 15:21); and for Paul (Romans 7:14).

“Open my eyes that I may…” see the love of God and His mercy and grace in the Lord Jesus Christ.

We know the story of the grace of God so well, which is declared in John 3:16. How all-embracing is the love of God! Read again Luke 15:11-24 and revel in verses 20-24! The great proof of God’s love is seen at Calvary, and when my eyes are opened to see the Lord Jesus dying there for me I cry out, “the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20), and humbly say, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Have you had this view of Christ crucified for you and Christ raised and exalted as your Savior at the right hand of God? Read Philippians 2:5-11 and say to yourself, ‘All this was for me!’

“Open my eyes that I may…” see the kind of Christian God wants me to be.

Do you ever read your Bible with this prayer on your lips and in your heart? If you do and if you read Psalm 1:1-3 you will see at once the kind of Christian God wants you to be. You will see this in Romans 6:12-14, Romans 8:37-39, Ephesians 4:31-32 and 2 Timothy 4:18. God wants every one of His children to be victorious in Christian living and fruitful in Christian service, and He has made every provision for us to live for Him and to serve Him in this way. The Lord Jesus has died and risen again to give us His own victorious life, and this life is imparted to us in the Person of the Holy Spirit.

These, then, are the three special prayers that we should always pray when we take up our Bible to read it. Many other things will be revealed to us as well – so let us pray this prayer and cultivate the habit of doing this often, remembering that the Holy Spirit is with us and in us, waiting to answer our prayer and to give the illumination we need.

Chapter8

THE PRAYER FOR SEARCHING OF HEART

(Scripture Portion: Psalm 139:23-24)

Have you ever prayed the prayer which forms the theme of this study – “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts? See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting”? Notice four things about David’s prayer:-

He addresses God. God is the only one who really knows our hearts (Psalm 139:1-4). No psychiatrist knows our hearts or our minds, but the Lord Himself is the searcher of hearts and knows us intimately and accurately.

He asks God to search him through and through. He prays for searching of his heart, his thoughts and for such an intimate inspection that if there is any “offensive way” this will be revealed. The word ‘search’ means ‘to ransack’; it reminds us of a policeman with a search warrant, the searching look of a loved one, or of the searchlight which penetrates the darkness and reveals the enemy. David prays that God will ransack him and search him to see if there is any hidden sin, anything that grieves Him.

He shows courage, sincerity and humility. No-one can pray this prayer lightly, insincerely or with a proud heart. It would be mockery to do so.

He prays as one who is hungry for God and who wants to go on with God. This prayer reminds us of Matthew 5:6. Do you desire to go on with the Lord? Are you hungry for His best?

Why we should pray this prayer

There is one answer: because our hearts and lives quickly get cluttered up with dirt, dust and rubbish. It is so easy for us to let wrong things in and to harbor them. Look up Nehemiah 4:10 and Lamentations 3:40. How easy it is for us to become slack and careless and spiritually insensitive! How easy it is to become guilty of wrong attitudes towards others, to become prayer less, to become careless about the desperate need of men and women around us who are without God and without hope for this life and for the life to come (Ephesians 2:12)! How easy it is to become formal in our worship (Matthew 15:8); to become lukewarm in our love for the Lord Jesus (Revelation 3:15-16). These are the reasons why we should pray David’s prayer, that God will reveal to us our sin and our failure and that He will be unsparing and faithful in doing so.

When we should pray this prayer

When we come to the Lord’s Table. Turn to 1 Corinthians 11:28.

When we are experiencing prosperity. Why? Because at such a time we are likely to become spiritually slack – read Psalm 62:10 and Psalm 119:67.

When we are experiencing adversity. Why? Because it could be the Lord’s loving chastening in order to bring us back into the line of His will – look up Hebrews 12:6-11.

When our service seems fruitless and barren. The Lord’s will is that we should bring forth fruit – look up John 15:16.

When revival is needed in the Church. Read the whole of Psalm 85.

When our prayers do not seem to gain the ear of God. Often we pray and our prayers do not seem to be answered – read Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:1-2.

When we find ourselves getting critical and careless and when we are very conscious that all is not well with our Christian life.

How we should pray this prayer

We should pray it in relation to ourselves. Notice how personal David’s prayer was – “Search me…” Look up 2 Samuel 12:7 and Matthew 26:21-22, and then compare Matthew 7:3.

We should pray this prayer in private and in the light of God’s Word. This is serious business and it is important to get alone with the Lord and with the open Bible. Then such a prayer will glorify God and bring blessings to us.

We should pray this prayer with determination. It will show itself in three ways: First, we shall admit what God reveals. If we are sincere we will immediately recognize anything He reveals in our lives which is grieving to Him. Second, we shall confess and renounce what God reveals. If He shows us that we have a critical spirit, that we have been slandering some other Christian, or that we have taken something that does not belong to us, we shall be willing at once to confess the thing that is wrong and to renounce it and to rejoice in the truth of 1 John 1:9! Third, we shall make restitution where this is required. If we have slandered someone we shall apologies to them; if our careless speaking has misrepresented them before others, we shall confess this; if we have taken something that does not belong to us we shall restore the stolen thing.

Notice how the prayer concludes – “Lead me in the way everlasting.” This is the way of peace, joy, power and usefulness. Will you pray this prayer, not only now but frequently?

THE PRAYER FOR GOD’S WILL TO BE DONE

(Scripture Reference: Psalm 143:10)

What a beautiful prayer this is – “Teach me to do your will”! It occurs in the last of the seven penitential psalms and it is the heart-cry of the psalmist for grace to know and to do God’s will. The late Dry G. Campbell Morgan says in his book “God’s Perfect Will”, that “there is no phrase more often in use among Christians than that of the will of God”, and he closes the same book with the words, “There is but one thing that matters, knowing and doing God’s will.” This was the important thing in the life of the Lord Jesus – look up and compare Psalm 40:7-8; Matthew 26:39; John 4:34; John 17:4. What does David’s prayer – “Teach me to do your will” – tell us?

It states the first heart-cry and longing of the truly born again soul.

Before we become a Christian we are not particularly interested in God’s will because we’re concerned only to go our own way (Isaiah 53:6). But what happens when God steps into our life and when we can say, “You are my God” (Psalm 143:10)? Then we find ourselves praying the prayer, “Teach me to do your will”. This was so in the case of Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:6). When we pray in this way it is a sure sign that there has been a real work of grace in our hearts. If we do not pray this prayer we ought to ask: Are we, in fact, the Lord’s?

It declares that God has a purpose and plan for our lives.

The fact that God has a plan for each one of us is declared throughout the Bible, and it is proved in the individual experience of God’s people. Read through the Book of Psalms with this thought in mind, and look up Colossians 1:9 and Colossians 4:12, and then read the biographies of people such as Wesley, Whitefield, F. B. Meyer, Mary Slessor and Amy Carmichael. Who can doubt that these Christians moved along in the plan and purpose of God?

It affirms that God is ready and willing to reveal His will to us.

Christians are often perplexed and say, ‘How can I know God’s will?’ Let us always remember that God is far more willing to guide us than we are to be guided. He wants the very best for us. It is important for us to distinguish between the directive and the permissive will of God. His directive will means that which is His highest and most gracious purpose; but His permissive will indicates what He may allow and yet not really approve. He may permit that which He may not desire. We may choose the will of God for our life, and that choosing will bring great pleasure to Him, great blessing to us, but on the other hand it is possible for us to make our own plans and insist on our own choice. God will still love us, but we must be the losers – look up Psalm 106:15.

It indicates the conditions to be met if we are to know and do His will.

What are these conditions? Are they complicated? Notice three things:-

We must have a teachable attitude. Notice how David prays, “Teach me to do your will”. He obviously had a child-like spirit and acknowledges his need to be taught (Jeremiah 10:23; Matthew 18:3-4).

We must have an intense desire to know God’s will. David’s prayer reveals this, and the Bible is full of specific promises to stimulate our desire – look up Psalm 37:5; Proverbs 3:6; Proverbs 16:3 and James 1:5. Have you an intense desire to know God’s will?

We must have a willingness to do His will whatever it involves. David prayed, “Teach me to do your will”, not only to know it but to do it; and when we pray this prayer we must have that willingness, whether it seems to us pleasing or painful and whether it harmonizes with what we would like or with something that we had not expected at all – look up John 7:17.

It provokes the question: How does the Lord teach us His will?

The answer to this practical question is very clear. He does it in three ways:-

By the teaching of His Word. In the Bible we have a declaration of God’s will in general terms. Most of the guidance God gives in His Word is through certain clearly stated principles, and we can learn immediately from the Bible the answer to the following questions: Will it glorify God? Will it honor the Holy Spirit? Does it conflict with any clear command? We must be careful not to use the Bible as a magic book. God guides us by the teaching of His Word, where He reveals His will in general terms. But there are some occasions when we need not general guidance but particular guidance. How does He guide then?

By the promptings of His Spirit. In Psalm 143 the work of the Holy Spirit is especially referred to in verse 10 – look up and compare Romans 8:14. When God requires us to take a certain step He leads us according to the principles of His Word and the burden which the Holy Spirit places on our hearts. No ‘supposed’ guidance of the Holy Spirit is really the Holy Spirit’s guidance if it is contrary to the clear teaching of the Word of God.

By the overruling of His providence. This means that God guides us through what we call “the circumstances of life”. He opens and closes doors – look up Revelation 3:8. He leads us by the wise counsel of Christian friends and loved ones.

When it is God’s will for us to take a certain step He will lead us by the teaching of His Word, by the prompting of His Spirit and by the overruling of His providence, and the three ways will harmonies to confirm to us that the step we are about to take is God’s will for us. Notice the promise in 1 John 2:17.

“LORD, TEACH ME TO DO YOUR WILL.

THE PRAYER FOR GOD TO REND THE HEAVENS

(Scripture Portion: Isaiah 64:1-3)

The great need on every hand is for spiritual revival, for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Church, for God to come in power; and in this study we are to consider whether such a reviving is possible and what we must do on our side to open the channels through which God may pour out such a blessing.

Of course revival is always the sovereign act of God. Scripture and experience prove that He can give it or withhold it, but it is also true that revival comes in response to certain human conditions. The Bible teaches this, and so does experience, and the words on which this study is based help us to see this truth. What do they tell us about revival?

The meaning of Revival is explained.

What is spiritual revival, revival in a Church? – It is the Lord God rending the heavens and coming down among His people (Isaiah 64:1). In other words, revival is a mighty manifestation of the presence and power of God. There was such a manifestation on the Day of Pentecost, when the early Christians were met in Jerusalem and suddenly they were all filled with the Holy Spirit – the heavens were opened and the Lord Himself came to His temple. What a change took place! – And the distinctive thing was that they were all conscious of a new and wonderful sense of the presence and power of God (Acts 2:1-21). If you had asked Peter, James, John or Mary, ‘What happened? What did you feel? How would you describe the experience?’ – They would have said, ‘The Lord came down among us and we were overwhelmed with the sense of His presence and power!’ This is what happened in Acts 4:31; on many occasions when Wesley and Whitefield preached; in the revival of 1859; in the valleys of Wales in 1904; this is what always happens when God’s people pray for revival, and God in His sovereign will is pleased to answer their prayers and rend the heavens and come down.

The need of Revival is declared.

Why is revival needed? Why do we need it in all the work in which we are engaged? What are the evidences that we need revival? The answer is that we must look in two places: (1) in God’s Word; and (2) in God’s Church.

When we look in God’s Word (Isaiah 64:1-11), we see the need that existed in BC 700, and it is similar to our need today: (1) Great mountains, obstacles, were hindering God’s blessing (verse 1). (2) There was a great deal of open sin – this is indicated by the words at the end of verse 5 and in verse 6. (3) There was prayerlessness (verse 7). (4) God’s judgment was resting on His people (verse 9). (5) The Holy City was in a state of desolation (verses 10-11).

When we look into our Churches we recognize the desperate need for revival. The situation here is descriptive of our need today, for in the Church there are those who profess to know the Lord but who do not in fact know Him (2 Timothy 3:5). Congregations are small, conversions are rare, prayer meetings are neglected and there is much coldness, deadness and worldliness; frequently the message of the gospel is not clearly proclaimed and the authority of the Bible is questioned; in many cases there are divisions, Christians not loving one another, and few seem to have a vision to save souls and fewer still are ready to go out to evangelize. How much we need revival, to sweep away sin and to remove the mountains of pride, jealousy, complacency and laziness!

The secret of Revival is revealed.

Notice in this chapter some of the conditions which must be met if revival is to come. We are not forgetting that God is sovereign and that He can send revival or withhold it, but we are emphasizing that because the need is great, the responsibility rests on us to do all we possibly can to make it possible. Revival cannot be worked up; the language of our verse makes this so clear. Revival is the presence and power of God coming down. How can we secure this?

There must be intense desire – “Oh, that…” (Isaiah 64:1). They are words that convey passion, longing, a burden, tears and concern. Have you any real concern for God to come into His work in reviving power, or are you satisfied with things as they are?

There must be amendment of life. Surely this is inferred in this chapter – a confession and putting away of sin; there must be a drastic dealing with anything that would hinder God’s blessing, which would grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30); there must be a willingness on the part of God’s people to pray the prayer in Psalm 139:23-24.

There must be the prayer of intercession. This is such a prayer – it is definite and urgent. It is not simply, “Lord, bless us!” but it is, “Oh that you would rend the heavens and come down…!” What would happen in your Church if the members really prayed for revival like this? The people of God cannot really pray and go on praying without failing to experience some measure of true revival. So will you begin to pray until the answer comes?

There must be the exercise of faith. We must believe that revival is possible and that God longs to send it. Isaiah’s prayer was certainly one of faith (Isaiah 64:8-9) and what he really asked was this, “Lord, come down and move these mountains…!” – compare Mark 11:22-24.

To these four conditions may be added another: the prayer for revival must be offered with a pure motive. Isaiah asked for God’s glory – that is the true motive in prayer; and the result of praying along these lines is – revival!

The result of revival is stated.

We have this in Isaiah 64:1-2. Revival results in a mighty quickening work of the Holy Spirit in the Church and a movement of the Holy Spirit through the Church and in the world. When true revival comes the people are on fire for God’s glory, filled with a love for His Name, for His Word and for His work, and they go out to a needy world and proclaim the gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit which causes the nations to “tremble before Him

THE PRAYER FOR DELIVERANCE FROM TROUBLE

(Scripture Portion: Jonah 2:1-9)

Jonah’s great trouble

Read through chapter 1 carefully and notice how Jonah’s trouble increased with mounting intensity, until in chapter 2 we find him giving his testimony about his trouble and the Lord’s gracious deliverance. Concerning his trouble notice:-

The nature of it. We read about this in Jonah 1:15 and 17. This man was cast into the sea and was then swallowed by a fish. He was surely in great trouble, and notice this in three ways: First, he was in trouble physically – his body was affected (Jonah 2:2); second, he was in trouble mentally – his mind must have reeled at the very thought of his predicament (Jonah 2:6); and third, he was in trouble spiritually – for he was out of touch with God (Jonah 2:4). How does your trouble compare with Jonah’s?

The intensity of it. It was very severe indeed, as we learn from verse 2, “my distress”; and in verse 2 again, “from the depths of the grave”; verse 3, “the currents swirled about me…swept over me…” and in verse 7, “my life was ebbing away”. This was no ordinary trial. It was an overwhelming one. How does your trouble compare with this in its severity? But what was the reason for Jonah’s trouble?

The reason for it. Jonah had disobeyed and distrusted God, and in this he had committed a grievous sin against the Lord. This was the reason for and the cause of Jonah’s trouble. God’s sovereignty and activity are very clearly brought out in this prophecy. Notice what “the Lord” did – in Jonah 1:1-3, and 4 and 17. Notice also that in Jonah 2:3 he attributes the storm, the waves and the trial to the Lord. God had brought about this great trial as a chastening, as His loving and sanctifying purpose to break His servant’s self-will and stubborn disobedience. The Lord has done this in love.

If you are in trouble, it does not follow that this is due to deliberate disobedience or distrust; but it could be so, and only you know whether it is so. Is God’s hand heavy upon you because of some willful disobedience? If so, what should you or any other Christian do in a time of trouble? We should do what Jonah did.

Jonah’s urgent prayer

It is important to compare Jonah 1:17 with Jonah 2:1. How urgent this man’s prayer was! – And he only made his prayer to the Lord when he was really in a tight fix. Look up and read Psalm 107 and particularly notice verses 6,13,19,20, and then the closing verse, verse 43. Concerning Jonah’s prayer notice:-

The place of his praying. We get this in Jonah 2:1. What a strange prayer-chamber! Daniel prayed in his house (Daniel 6:10); Peter prayed on the rooftop (Acts 10:9); Lydia prayed by the riverside (Acts 16:13); Paul prayed in prison (Philippians 1:4); Jesus prayed on the mountain top (Luke 6:12); but Jonah – he prayed from the inside of a fish! This reminds us that we can pray anywhere and in any time of trouble.

The faith in his praying. Here is something important. Jonah was God’s servant, in spite of the fact that he was disobedient. He knew that the Lord would hear his prayer if it was offered sincerely, penitently, with confession and in faith. His prayer was God-directed (Jonah 2:1); it was offered in faith (Jonah 2:4); it was offered in the light of what God was going to do for him (Jonah 2:9). When Jonah prayed he rejoiced in the fact that “Salvation comes from the Lord”. He had faith to believe that He could and would save him from his trouble. All appearances were against him and he was still in the fish, but God would get him out!

The answer to his praying. We get this in Jonah 2:10. What a great answer it was! – Immediate, dramatic and miraculous! God is very gracious, in spite of our disobedience (Jonah 4:2), and compare Psalm 145:8-9. But most of all God’s grace and graciousness are seen in the next point.

Jonah’s second chance

What wonderful words are recorded in Jonah 3:1! He was given a second chance after his disobedience; so was Peter after his denial (John 21:15-17); Thomas after his doubt (John 20:24-29); John Mark after his desertion (2 Timothy 4:11). There is a second chance for you if you will come back to the Lord in penitence and faith. What do we see about Jonah’s second chance?

It was unexpected. It was certainly more than he could have hoped for. He believed God would deliver him but he could not have expected that God would recommission him.

It was undeserved. How completely undeserved it was for Jonah; and how completely undeserving we are of the Lord’s gracious dealings with us!

It was unequivocal. There was no doubt about it. It seemed too good to be true, but it was true!

So Jonah got out of his trouble; and if your trouble has come upon you because of disobedience and distrust you may get out of your trouble and back into the plan and purpose of God for your life if you will turn to Him with all your heart – look up and compare 2 Chronicles 30:9 and Joel 2:12-13.

SIMEON’S PRAYER FOR RELEASE

(Scripture Portion: Luke 2:29-32)

To gain the full significance of Simeon’s prayer it is necessary to read Luke 2:21-35. Simeon’s prayer for release is contained in verses 29-32 and it is important to notice that this was not a prayer like Elijah’s when he was depressed and discouraged (1 Kings 19:4). Simeon was joyful and filled with thanksgiving because God had fulfilled His word, the Messiah had actually come, and he had seen Him and embraced Him; for this tiny baby which he held in his arms was the Son of God Himself, the Savior of the world – “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (verse 32). Recognizing that God had fulfilled His promise, Simeon prayed his remarkable prayer. To understand the beauty of it we must first look at the man Simeon

SIMEON’S PERSONAL PIETY

What kind of man was he? The answer is in Luke 2:25-27 where we are told four things which mark him as a pious and a godly man:-

He was a righteous man. We see this in verse 25 and it refers to his testimony before others. He was known as a man who was honest, upright, sincere, reliable, and truthful, a man of integrity. How well qualified he was to pray effectively! – look up and compare James 5:16.

He was a devout man. The word ‘righteous’ is the human aspect of his life; the word ‘devout’ is the God-ward aspect, because it speaks of his relationship with the Lord. His life was pleasing to Him because he was living in fellowship, on speaking terms, and in submission to Him.

He was a Spirit-controlled man. In this short section of Scripture three references are made to Simeon’s personal experience of the Holy Spirit (verses 25-27). He was Spirit-filled, Spirit-enlightened and Spirit-led. This should be true of every Christian and our lives should be under the control and the immediate direction of the Holy Spirit. This is what Ephesians 5:18 means and is a necessary qualification if we are to pray effectively.

He was living in anticipation of the Lord’s coming. Simeon waited for the Savior’s first coming (verse 25); and you and I should be doing the same thing in relation to His second coming. Simeon knew that the Lord would come because it had been revealed to him (verse 26). And it has been revealed to us throughout the Bible, in prophecies, in promises, in predictions and in parables. All these clearly state that Jesus is coming again and we should be in the attitude of waiting for His return – look up John 14:3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 John 3:1-3.

SIMEON’S REMARKABLE PRAYER

Look at verses 28-32 where there is such wealth of detail that we should consider each word or phrase. What do we learn about Simeon’s prayer?

It commenced with worship (verses 27-28). Simeon “praised God”. He did not begin with petition or confession but with adoration. This is how we should begin to pray – look up and compare Exodus 3:5.

It acknowledged God’s sovereignty; verse 29 tells us that Simeon began his prayer with the words “Sovereign Lord”, recognizing God’s greatness and authority and that he was only His servant, a slave.

It recognized God’s working; in verse 29 Simeon said, “As you have promised” – ‘At last the thing I’ve been waiting for has happened! Jesus has come, so now give me release from the body!’ There’s no hint of any fear of death – but why should there be? Look up 1 Corinthians 15:53-57.

It included the element of submission; in verse 29 again Simeon prayed, “Sovereign Lord…you now dismiss your servant…” He could not go just when he decided he would – and nor can we, for our times are in God’s hands – look up Psalm 31:15 and compare Luke 23:46.

It was a humble prayer; in verse 29 Simeon acknowledged he was God’s ‘servant’, one who waited to do the will of his master, but weak, unworthy and indeed unprofitable – look up Luke 17:10.

It was a prayer for peaceful dismissal. Before we are ready to be with Christ we must know what it is to have peace with God (Romans 5:1); then we will experience God’s peace filling our hearts (Philippians 4:7).

It rested on God’s promise; in effect he prayed, ‘Lord, you promised I would not depart until I had seen the Savior. Now I have seen Him. Let me go, as you promised!’ This is the way to pray, in faith and with assurance. See Genesis 21:1; 50:24; Joshua 21:45; Hebrews 10:23.

It explains why he was ready to die (verses 28 and 30). He had received Christ, embraced Him, seen Him and confessed Him – and He was ready.

It declares the true nature of salvation. First, that salvation is not a creed, system or denomination; it’s a Person. Christ is the embodiment of God’s salvation (Acts 4:12). Second, that it is a long-prepared salvation (verse 31) – compare Revelation 13:8; Galatians 4:4. Third, that it is for everybody (verse 31) – look up John 3:16. Fourth, that Christ has to be personally appropriated – verse 30 makes this clear.

It reveals remarkable discernment. Verse 32 tells us Simeon was discerning, because Jesus came first to the Jews and not to the Gentiles; and yet in the purpose of God the Jews rejected Him, and He became first of all “a light for revelation to the Gentiles”, and we now await the time when He will be “for glory to your people Israel” (verse 32).

SIMEON’S SOLEMN PROPHECY

Look at verses 33-35. Simeon blessed them and said two things:-

He gave a prophecy about Christ Himself (verse 34), that He would be the One who would divide men and nations according to their attitude towards Him. (Matthew 12:30; John 7:43).

He gave a prophecy about the anguish of Calvary (verse 35; John 19:25).

In conclution notice that, having begun his great prayer with blessing God (verse 28), Simeon finished his prayer by blessing others (verse 34)

THE FAMILY PRAYER, OR “THE LORD’S PRAYER”

(Scripture Portion: Matthew 6:9-13)

The simplest and most comprehensive example of prayer came from the lips of our Lord at the request of His disciples (Luke 11:1). In studying this prayer it will help us to consider the following points:-

The title of this prayer. We call it “The Lord’s Prayer” because our Lord gave it, but “The Disciples’ Prayer” or “The Family Prayer” are better terms; for our Lord did not pray this prayer, nor could He, for He had no sins to confess. It is His prayer only because He composed it.

It is a universal prayer. It is meant for all Christians, everywhere and at any time. All who love the Lord may pray this prayer.

It is a model, or pattern, prayer. It is meant to be a sample of the kind of prayer we should pray. It tells us how to pray and what to pray for. Spurgeon describes it as “a model on which to fashion our prayers”, and Jesus said we are to pray in this way (Matthew 6:9).

In this study let’s sit at His feet and learn how to pray and what to pray for.

THE ADORATION OF GOD THE FATHER

Prayer begins when we approach God and we must come before Him with adoration and worship. Before we begin asking for things, we are to pray “Our Father in heaven”. Two truths are emphasized here:-

Relationship. The upward relationship is indicated by the word ‘Father’. This prayer is only for children of God, for those who are believers and have become members of His family (John 1:12-13; Galatians 3:26). The outward relationship is indicated by the words ‘Our Father’. We are not only children of God but brothers and sisters in His family – Ephesians 3:15.

Reverence. This is indicated in the words, ‘Our Father in Heaven’. He is no earthly father, but our Father who is in heaven, and while it is wonderful that we have been brought into a holy and intimate relationship with Him, we must always come before Him with due reverence, and not in a careless or casual fashion.

THE PETITIONS OF GOD’S CHILDREN

The first three petitions are prayers for God’s glory and for the progress of His kingdom, and the last four are prayers for ourselves: in the first three the repetition of the word ‘your’, referring to God, and in the last four the repetition of the words ‘us’ and ‘our’, referring to ourselves.

The petition respecting God’s name – “hallowed be your name”. The name of God stands for His person and includes all His attributes – His power, wisdom, holiness, justice, mercy and truth. To pray that God’s name may be hallowed is to pray that He may be made known and glorified. Our first petition should be for the glory of God (John 12:28; 1 Peter 4:11).

The petition concerning God’s kingdom – “your kingdom come”. There are two aspects of God’s kingdom. There is the present aspect. His kingdom, which is spiritual, is being set up now in the hearts and lives of men and women, and entrance to it is through the new birth (John 3:3). Our Lord is at present receiving this kingdom to Himself, and when it is complete He will return (Luke 19:12). There is also a future aspect of His kingdom: we pray for the King to come again and for the setting up of His kingdom on earth, for His rule when all will know Him (Hebrews 8:11).

The petition for God’s will to be done – “your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”. God’s ultimate purpose is that His will, which is done perfectly in heaven, will be done perfectly on earth, and as we approach Him we pray for His will to be done. This petition teaches us what true prayer is – it is not a way of getting God to do something we want, but is a means of enabling Him to do what He wants, that is, His will!

The petition for our daily needs – “Give us today our daily bread”. We are dependent on the Lord for everything we need here on earth – life itself, food, shelter, clothing and strength; and this is a prayer which God will graciously answer (Philippians 4:19). He tells us not to be worried about our needs (Matthew 6:8, 25-34). The words, “Give us today” also remind us that we are to learn to live a day at a time.

The petition for pardon – “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors”. We are sinners needing forgiveness and we can pray this with assurance (1 John 1:9). But notice that this prayer for forgiveness is conditional on our forgiving others, for we are asking God to forgive us “as we have forgiven…” Failure to forgive is to forfeit the joy of fellowship with our Heavenly Father which we should be experiencing all the time. Our salvation will not be affected, but our fellowship with God will be affected.

The petition for strength –“lead us not into temptation”. The word ‘temptation’ may refer to the enticement of sin which is the Devil’s work, or the testing which God plans or permits in the lives of His children and which is always for their good as well as for His glory (Hebrews 12:6-11). The prayer, “Lead us not into temptation” is the prayer that God will not allow us to be overcome by Satan’s evil enticements or by God’s purposeful testing’s (1 Corinthians 10:13).

The petition for deliverance – “deliver us from the evil one”. While we are in the body we are constantly struggling with our evil nature. Jesus believed in the Devil and He told us to pray that we might be delivered from his powerful attacks – look up 2 Timothy 4:18.

THE CLOSING DOXOLOGY

This is in praise to God, indicated in the words, “Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen”. When we finish our prayer in this way we are affirming our belief that the kingdoms of this world are in fact the rightful property of our Father, that to Him alone belong all authority and power, that He alone deserves to receive all glory and honor and that He is the eternal King. We conclude with a hearty “Amen”, which means “So let it be!”

THE LORD’S GREAT PRAYER OF INTERCESSION

(Scripture Portion: John 17:1-26)

In John chapter 17 we have the record of what really is the Lord’s Prayer. The prayer in Matthew 6 is the prayer given by our Lord as a sample, or outline, for His followers. In John 17 we are on very holy ground (Exodus 3:2-5); and it will help us in studying this chapter to keep in mind two important verses – Hebrews 7:24-25 and John 11:42. Compare Matthew 14:23-33 and Luke 22:31-32. This then is our Lord’s Prayer for His disciples throughout all time. What does He pray for His own? How does He pray for them? This prayer can be divided into three parts:

In verses 1-5, where the Lord prays for Himself, His Person is revealed.

Who is Jesus? See the answer to this important question:-

He is the Son of God (verse 1) –“Father…Son…” This is a unique relationship, for He was and is the eternal, one and only, Son of God (John 3:16) – one with the Father and the Holy Spirit in the unity of God .He is the Savior of the world (verse 1) – “the time has come”. The reference to ‘the time’ relates to the period of time marked off in God’s calendar when the Savior would die on the cross of Calvary for our sins (John 2:4; 7:30; 8:20 and 12:23 and 27).

He is the Giver of eternal life (verses 2 and 3). He came to give life to dead people – look up John 10:10, and compare John 5:24; Ephesians 2:1 and 1 John 5:11-12. He had authority to give this life to all who believe on Him (Matthew 28:18). Only as we know Christ can we know God (verse 3; and compare John 14:6).

He is the Finisher of redemption (verse 4). The time came, the work was completed, He lived a perfect life and died as a sacrifice for sin, and so He glorified God in His life and by His death. He finished the work that He had come to do (John 19:30) – compare Hebrews 9:26.

He is the pre-incarnate and eternal One. Verse 5 states this, for He was none other than the eternal Son – look up Psalm 90:2, and compare Micah 5:2; John 1:1-3 and John 8:56-58.

In verses 6-19, where our Lord prays for His first friends and followers, we have a description of some of the blessings which we as believers possess through faith in Him.

We are the Father’s love-gift to the Son. Notice in verse 6, “you gave them to me”; and in this chapter there are six other occasions where we are told this. We belong to the Lord Jesus by creation (Colossians 1:16); by redemption (1 Corinthians 6:20); and by donation, for we were given to Him by the Father.

We are the recipients of His words. Verse 8 is a very important verse, for implicit in the fact of His giving us His word is also the fact of our having received that word. The natural man cannot do this (1 Corinthians 2:14); but we, who have been born again, have received the word – compare verse 17 and also Ephesians 5:25-26.

We are secure in His keeping. Will the prayer of verse 9 be answered? Is verse 10 true? Will He keep us according to verse 11? Here the truth of the security of the believer is most emphatically stated – look up and compare John 10:28-29; 2 Timothy 1:12; 1 Peter 1:5 and Jude 24. In verse 15 the word ‘protect’ refers to our being kept from the Evil One (2 Timothy 4:18).

We share His own joy. The words ‘the full measure of my joy’ in verse 13 gives the idea of a complete joy! – compare John 15:11. His joy was fullness of joy, and His joy becomes our joy – look up Nehemiah 8:10, Philippians 4:4.

We are consecrated to the Lord. Verse 19 is marvelous, for it tells us that our Lord voluntarily set Himself apart for the work of redemption so that we might be set apart for His possession and use. Having been set apart to the Lord in this way, we are no longer “of the world”, any more than Christ Himself is “of the world” –as verse 16 makes clear.

In verses 20-26, where our Lord prays for all who in every age would believe on Him, we have a clear statement of His desires for His people.

He prays that we may be spiritually united. Read verses 20-23. Our Lord does not pray for uniformity but for an organic unity of all believers. This is brought about by the miracle of 1 Corinthians 12:13. We do not have to organize unity or join any ecumenical movement to get it. We have this unity, and we must maintain it (Ephesians 4:3-6).

He prays that we may be channels of blessing to others. Notice this in verse 23, which should be linked with verse 21 and verse 18. All who know Him as Savior and Lord are commissioned by Him to carry on His work and to be available to Him that He may carry on His work through them – look up John 14:12.

He prays that we may share the glory of Heaven with Him. Verse 24 should be read in connection with John 12:26; John 14:2-3; Luke 23:42-43; 1 Thessalonians 4:17 and Revelation 22:3.

He prays that His love may fill our lives. We see this in verses 25-26 – look up and compare Romans 5:8 and Ephesians 3:16-19.

He prays that we may know the power of His indwelling. As you conclude this study, meditate quietly on the last three words in verse 26 – and compare Galatians 2:20 and Colossians 1:29.Chapter9

THE SAVIOUR’S PRAYER IN GETHSEMANE

(Scripture Portion: Matthew 26:36-46)

There are two places which we should frequently visit in thought and prayer – first, “the place called The Skull” (Luke 23:33), and then “a place called Gethsemane” (Matthew 26:36). When we visit Gethsemane we will be ready to appreciate the significance of Calvary. Gethsemane (which means ‘the oil presses) was a garden situated on the Mount of Olives. As we come here we see the Savior with His disciples, but let us first center our thoughts on the Savior and notice in particular seven of His attributes in Matthew 26:36-46 and in the parallel passages in Mark 14:32-42 and Luke 22:39-46.

THE SAVIOUR’S TRUE HUMANITY

This is brought before us in Matthew 26:36, 37, 38 and in Luke 22:43. The fact that our Lord was “sorrowful and troubled”, and that “an angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him”, emphasizes the fact that He really was man. Our Lord was and is God, but it was as “the man Christ Jesus”, the representative man, that He entered Gethsemane and suffered on the cross as our substitute. His favorite title for Himself was “the Son of Man”, and this emphasizes His true humanity. He was the perfect man, having a human ancestry, a human appearance, a human constitution and human infirmities. He was tempted, He needed to pray, and He knew human suffering.

THE SAVIOUR’S UTTER HUMILITY

In Matthew 26:39 we are told that when Jesus prayed He “fell with his face to the ground”; Luke 22:41 says, He “knelt down and prayed”. There is no contradiction here, for these statements must be taken together, but how this attitude of the Savior rebukes our casual irreverence! Our Lord, though He was God made flesh, the Son of His Father in a unique sense, got down low at His Father’s feet – look up Matthew 6:9. We must not be careless or irreverent in the way we approach or address God. Let us be like Jesus and learn of Him – look up Matthew 11:29, and compare Exodus 3:3-5.

THE SAVIOUR’S COMPLETE DEPENDENCE

Although He was so great and so glorious, yet while He was here as man He never once acted independently of the Father, and Matthew 26:39 emphasizes this fact – look up and compare Luke 22:42, and look up and study carefully John 5:17-20; 5:30-31 and 7:15-16.

THE SAVIOUR’S GREAT FAITH

This is brought out in Matthew 26:39 and Mark 14:36, where we hear the Savior saying, “Abba, Father, everything is possible for you.” Here we see our Lord’s absolute confidence in the power of God. Some have dared to suggest that here in the garden the Savior’s faith wavered, but this is not true. He was completely aware of the purpose for which He had come into the world, and He was ready to complete and finish the work He had come to do (Matthew 26:46 and Hebrews 5:7).

THE SAVIOUR’S TENDER COMPASSION

Notice this in Matthew 26:40-41. Was our Lord rebuking the disciples? It is possible, and there was certainly an element of disappointment in His words; but most of all there is the evidence of His love and understanding of the agony and suffering which lay ahead of them. We notice that in the midst of His own awful ordeal He showed such loving care for the needs of His friends (Mark 14:38), and that He was not asking prayer for Himself; He was asking His disciples to pray for themselves, as if He said to them, “I know what you will have to suffer, and I want to prepare you.”

THE SAVIOUR’S AWFUL AGONY

How moving it is to read Matthew 26:37,38 and 39, then to read Mark 14:33,34 and 36; compare Luke 22:44 and Hebrews 5:7! The Savior’s agony was intense, even to the point of physical exhaustion (Luke 22:43-44). Why did He experience such anguish at the thought of His approaching death? It was because of the ingredients of the “cup” which He had to drink if sinners were to be saved (Matthew 26:39). The “cup” was a metaphor used in reference to the judgment of God which was to fall on the sinless Savior as He bore our sin (Isaiah 53:6); as He took away our sin (John 1:29); as He became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21). And as the Savior anticipated this and the rejection which He would experience (Matthew 27:46), He was overcome with the anguish of it.

THE SAVIOUR’S PERFECT SUBMISSION

There was no conflict between the Savior’s will and the Father’s will (Matthew 26:39, 42 and 44; Matthew 26:45-46). After Jesus had said, “Yet not as I will, but as you will”, He turned to His disciples and said, “Rise, let us go!” (Verse 46) – Where to? To Calvary, for you and for me (Psalm 40:7-8; Isaiah 50:5-6). This is a very humbling study. Are there any further lessons or encouragements for us as we view the Savior in dark Gethsemane? Consider the following:-

Prayer is the best practical remedy which we can use in times of trouble (Matthew 26:36).

Some prayers we can only offer alone (Matthew 6:6; Matthew 26:38-39).

We too can come to God on the ground of an intimate relationship (Matthew 26:39; Mark 14:36).

The supreme object in prayer and in all service is the will of God (Matthew 26:39; Acts 9:6).

We are weak at the best of times and must therefore continually watch and pray (Matthew 26:41).

The Lord Jesus will always gently rebuke our pride and self-confidence Matthew 26:40; Mark 14:27 (our Lord was addressing Peter who had been so boastful and self-confident – look up Matthew 26:33-35).

We too enjoy the ministry of angels and the sufficiency of God’s grace (Luke 22:43; Hebrews 1:13-14; Psalm 91:11-12; 2 Corinthians 9:8; 12:9).

THE DYING THIEF’S PRAYER FOR SALVATION

(Scripture Portion: Luke 23:32-43)

This study is on the prayer of the dying thief, recorded in Luke 23:42, and our Lord’s immediate and gracious answer in verse 43. The prayer is for salvation, so that in these two brief verses we have the Request of the Man and the Reply of the Lord. The story is a sublime one. We are reminded at once of the fact that our Lord was not alone in His death, for on either side of Him was a transgressor – look up Isaiah 53:12 or compare Luke 23:32. Our Lord’s purpose in coming into this world was to save sinners (Matthew 1:21; Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 1:15); and we see Him doing that here. There are three reasons why this incident makes a special appeal to us:-

It is the story of the salvation of a sinner. Whatever we appear to be on the outside, or whatever we like to think about ourselves, we are in fact sinners in the sight of God (Romans 3:20 and 23); compare Isaiah 53:6 and Isaiah 64:6. This dying robber was an evil man; he had broken the law of the land and had been condemned to death for that reason. We may therefore feel encouraged to know that salvation is available to sinners, like ourselves.

It is the story of a man who was saved in the eleventh hour. He was saved within a matter of minutes before dying. Thank God, as long as there is life there is hope! As long as a man can repent he can be saved, and a man can be saved while he is dying (Isaiah 55:6-7). The promise of John 6:37 holds out until the moment of death.

It happened so simply, so quickly and so definitely. To begin with, this dying thief joined his friend in reviling Jesus – compare Matthew 27:44 and Mark 15:32 – then suddenly a change took place; he recognized who Jesus was, turned to Him in repentance and in faith, and received salvation. How quickly the Lord can reveal Himself, and how quickly anyone can call upon Him for salvation!

These are three reasons, among others, why the incident before us makes such an appeal to us. Now notice three things about the prayer of the man, and three things about the answer of the Lord:-

THE MAN’S PRAYER

We have this recorded in verse 42, and what does it tell us?

His prayer shows us that he believed in life after death. Quite obviously, as verse 42 shows us, this man believed that Jesus had a kingdom; he did not believe in the theory of annihilation – which we go out like the snuff of a candle when we die! How foolish to think of such a thing! Life would not make sense if it only held out hope of just a few short years of struggling and suffering down here.

His prayer shows us that he recognized and acknowledged Jesus Christ as Lord. It is a remarkable thing that this man acknowledged Jesus as Lord at the time of His death. How did this come about? – By spiritual revelation (1 Corinthians 12:3). Evidently he saw the glory of God in the face of Christ (2 Corinthians 4:4-6).

His prayer shows us that he believed Christ had the power to save him, so he asked Him to do it. He said, “Lord, remember me…” – that is all, because that is all that is necessary. How wonderfully simple the way of salvation is! How easy it is for anybody, at any time and in any place, to lift up his heart to the Lord and say, “Jesus, remember me!” – look up Romans 10:13 again.

But now notice how this man’s prayer for salvation was answered:-

THE LORD’S ANSWER

Jesus said three very definite things to the dying thief:-

The first part of our Lord’s answer was, “You will be…in paradise”. It is important for us to notice that our Lord did not promise that the man would first of all be in Purgatory. There are no grounds at all for believing in Purgatory as an intermediate place between earth and Heaven, where the soul is purged. Purgatory is past tense – look up Hebrews 1:3. When we die we either go to Heaven or Hell, either to Paradise or to Perdition. Jesus gave this man the absolute assurance that he would go to Paradise. How wonderful to know this!

The second part of our Lord’s answer was, “You will be WITH ME in Paradise”. One writer has said that this man had breakfast on earth with the Devil and supper in Heaven with the Lord. So great is the grace of God that a guilty sinner can come back into fellowship with the Lord Himself. It was not simply that Jesus promised this man that he would go to Paradise, but that He said that he would be with Him in Paradise – “You will be with me in Paradise” What a wonderful salvation ours is! – Look up 1 Thessalonians 4:17.

The third part of our Lord’s answer was, “TODAY you will be with me in Paradise” – so our Lord promised him immediate salvation – look up and compare Luke 19:5 (“today”) and Luke 19:9 (“Today salvation has come”).

Thank God, you can be saved now, at this very moment – not only today, but here and now! – look up Hebrews 3:7 and compare 2 Corinthians 6:2.

THE DISCIPLES’ PRAYER IN THE UPPER ROOM

(Scripture Portions: Acts 1:13-14; 24-25)

Just as in the life of every Christian there must be the shut door, so in the life of every Church there must be the upper room. The Christian must know how to pray privately; the Church must know how to pray together. The Church was born in the upper room. The baptism of the Holy Spirit was to mark the birth of the infant Church; and for ten days this company were gathered in the place of united prayer, until the heavens were opened and they were all “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:4). It is in such upper rooms that the greatest business in the world is transacted by the Church, under the presidency of the Holy Spirit, where humble believers meet and bow before the Lord ready to do His will. In many respects, this eve-of-Pentecost prayer meeting was a model one, and it will help us to note some of its characteristics mentioned in Acts 1:14.

Notice the word “all”. The reference is to the eleven apostles, the women, Mary and our Lord’s brethren – and verse 15 tells us that altogether there were about 120 present. The lesson is simple: it is the privilege and the responsibility of all to attend the prayer meeting. Here were men, women, young people and older people – leaders in the work of God and new converts – all were present together in the upper room.

They “all joined…constantly in prayer”. Their praying was persevering and steadfast. There was no suggestion that they all lived in the upper room, but the Holy Spirit does record the fact that they were constantly in prayer. We have a great illustration of this in Acts 12:5-17!

They prayed “together”. They prayed with one mind and one heart. There was unanimity about the matters for which they prayed, and there was perfect harmony between them. Love filled their hearts, and they enjoyed the unity of the Spirit - see Ephesians 4:3, and compare Matthew 5:23-24 and Psalm 133.

They “joined together … in prayer”. The use of the word ‘prayer’ here reminds us of its comprehensive nature, for it includes praise, worship, thanksgiving, adoration, confession and intercession. Frequently in our praying the note of confession is missing, or maybe the note of thanksgiving.

History is full of illustrations of the results of such prayers, all of which show the willingness of God to hear His Church’s prayers and to answer. What is the result of such meetings of the Church for united prayer?

The first result is true fellowship with and in the Lord.

This is emphasized in Acts 1:14 by the repetition of the word ‘with’ (the word denoting fellowship) – look up and compare 1 John 1:7 and Revelation 3:20. What ‘togetherness’ Christians experience when they meet in the upper room!

The second result is guidance in the administration of the Church.

Some think that Peter and the others acted in the energy of the flesh in appointing Matthias to take the place of Judas (verses 14-26); but verse 24 suggests otherwise, and it is significant that in Acts 6:2 we read of “the Twelve”. Evidently the Holy Spirit recognized the presence of Matthias with “the eleven”. The lesson for us is obvious: only where there is united prayer on the part of the members can there be the accomplishing of God’s will in and through the Church. Without such praying, wrong decisions will be made, man’s wisdom will be exalted and God’s work will be hindered. With such praying the work of God will go forward and the will of God will be accomplished.

The third result will be the release of the power of the Holy Spirit.

After this prayer meeting came Pentecost, and the result of every prayer meeting should be the outpouring of the Spirit of God (Acts 2:4; Acts 4:23-31). More prayer on the part of the whole fellowship of God’s people means more of the convicting and converting power of the Holy Spirit in the personal and public preaching of the gospel, and more power in the lives of God’s people, enabling them to show forth the beauty of the Lord Jesus in their daily walk and witness. Historically there will never be another Day of Pentecost, but experimentally all God’s children need to know His filling and empowering. This is the greatest need in the Church, and in all the work of evangelism at home and abroad.

The fourth result will be the special activity of Satan.

As soon as the Spirit of God began to work in the Church the Adversary began also. A prosperous prayer meeting is the guarantee of the presence of two great personalities: the Holy Spirit and Satan. Thank God for the truth in 1 John 4:4! The Devil is a defeated foe, and when a Church knows how to “pray through”, the Spirit of the Lord will soon put him to flight (Isaiah 59:19 AV). There are some Churches which the Devil leaves alone. He certainly does not attack the kind of Church which is filled with worldliness or which places no great value on the preaching of the Word, the ministry of prayer and the desperate need of sinners. The Church he attacks is the one in which the Holy Spirit is at work. The fact that Satan is on the warpath is not necessarily, therefore, a cause for discouragement; and where the people of God know how to pray through, the powers of darkness will not only be held back but Satan’s devices will be used by God for the furtherance of His purposes.

The fifth result will be the mighty spread of the Gospel.

Within a few days of the conclusion of this prayer meeting the whole of Heaven’s machinery was set in motion for the spreading of the gospel (Matthew 9:38; Acts 1:8; Acts 8:4; Acts 17:6). Every great missionary outreach began in an upper room! Think of Paul’s great missionary journeys or the work God did through Zinzendorf, Wesley, Whitefield and Moody, and of the work He is doing through a great host of His servants today. When we pray, it is not long before we hear the cry, “Come over and help us” – look up Acts 16:9-10; and see how many souls want and need to be saved – look up Acts 18:9-11.

THE SOUL-WINNER’S PRAYER FOR ISRAEL’S SALVATION

(Scripture Reference: Romans 10:1)

The burden of the Apostle Paul’s heart was his intense longing that sinners might be saved. He was an outstanding man, not physically, but as a Christian (Acts 11:26); as a true disciple of Christ (John 8:31); as the Lord’s ambassador (2 Corinthians 5:20); as a pastor (Philippians 1:3-5); as a preacher (Ephesians 3:8); as a writer (Philemon 19); and as a martyr (2 Timothy 4:6-8). But most of all he was a soul-winner. His whole life was dedicated to this. With Romans 10:1 we should link Romans 9:1-3. Although Paul could be joyful, he carried with him this constant burden for the souls of others, and in this study we shall center our thoughts on Romans 10:1, where there is a clear sequence of truth.

Paul viewed all men as being lost by nature.

The use of the word “saved” in Romans 10:1 implies that those for whom Paul longed were lost. No-one needs to be saved who is not already lost. Paul was thinking primarily of Israel, of his fellow-countrymen, for he was a Jew; but it is not only Jews who are lost. All who are living apart from Christ are lost. If we are to be soul-winners we must begin by being firmly convinced that those who are not Christians are lost – lost to God, to Christ, to salvation, to Heaven, and lost forever unless they are brought to Him. What is it to be lost?

It refers to the soul and to eternity (Mark 8:36).

It is to be living apart from Christ (Luke 19:10).

It is to be perishing (John 3:16).

It is to miss out on any opportunities for usefulness, and to be out of fellowship with the Father (Luke 15:3-24).

It is to be under condemnation (John 3:18).

It is to be under God’s wrath (John 3:36).

It is to be bound for Hell and a Christ-less eternity (Luke 13:27).

What a solemn and terrible thing it is to be lost, and how very many are lost, and how few are trying to save the lost!

Paul believed that good men, as well as bad men, were lost: that religious people as well as irreligious people were lost.

There’s an idea around that so long as people are religious, moral and trying to live a good life they are not so bad, in fact they are or will be saved. But this is not the case. Paul speaks of his Jewish brethren and of their zeal to make themselves acceptable to God (Romans 10:2-3). How religious the Jews were! – but in spite of this they were lost, because no-one is saved by law-keeping, by good works or by morality, but only by believing in Christ. We are not saved by our self-righteousness, for this is unacceptable to God (Isaiah 64:6); we are only saved by submitting ourselves to Christ’s righteousness (Romans 10:3); and this righteousness is imputed to us when we believe (Romans 10:9-10). So, the religious, moral Pharisee is lost, while the sinful publican is saved – why? Because the Pharisee trusted in his own righteousness which can never save him, and the publican trusted in Christ’s righteousness (Luke 18:9-14), and compare Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8-10 and Titus 3:5-7.

Paul longed with a deep longing for men to be saved.

He tells us that this was his “heart’s desire”. Paul had a passion for souls, like the Lord Jesus (Matthew 9:36), and compare Matthew 14:14. Paul’s longing was so intense – see again Romans 9:1-3. He longed for Jews to be saved because he was a Jew; just as the Chinese or Romanian Christians will long for their own people to be saved, or a converted drug addict will long for other addicts to be saved. Read Exodus 32, particularly noticing verses 31 and 32.

Paul’s longing for the salvation of men expressed itself in prayer.

Romans 10:1 tells us this – and such a true burden for souls will always be expressed in prayer. Notice five things about Paul's prayer:-

It was a shared prayer. He begins by calling upon his “brothers” to share this burden with him. We are all responsible to pray for the salvation of others, and all of us can do this (Acts 28:30-31).

It was a heart-felt prayer. His heart was in it, for ‘the heart of prayer is the prayer of the heart’. There were tears in Paul’s prayer – look up Acts 20:31.

It was a rightly directed prayer. It was directed “to God”, as all prayers should be, and what wonderful things God can do in answer to the prayers of His people when they come to Him – look up Jeremiah 33:3.

It was a definite prayer. It was for the salvation of Israel.

It was a specific prayer. He did not pray for people to be blessed, or helped, or guided; but he prayed that the heart of their need might be met – that they might be “saved” (James 5:20).

Paul’s longing which expressed itself in prayer was also accompanied by works.

He not only prayed but he went into action in some very practical ways. His longing and prayer for men and women to be brought to Christ showed itself in three special ways:-

By the life he lived. Paul won souls by the life that Christ lived in him and lived out through him (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:29). This was possible because Paul was available to the Holy Spirit – look up Romans 12:1.

By the words he spoke. Paul won souls by his preaching, his testifying to Jews and Gentiles, to many or too few, in prison or in the palace, in the street or in the synagogue, by day or by night. This was possible because his lips were available to the Holy Spirit – look up Psalm 50:23.

By the letters he wrote. Thirteen of these letters are in our New Testament. Did you ever think of writing to your loved ones and friends and testifying to them concerning your faith in Christ? Paul’s pen was available to the Holy Spirit – look up Galatians 6:11.

Here, then, is the soul-winner’s prayer for Israel’s salvation, or for anybody’s salvation. Let us make it our prayer.

PAUL’S PRAYER FOR HIS FRIENDS

(Scripture Portion: Colossians 1:9-14)

Some of the richest portions of Paul’s letters are those containing his prayers for the saints. Paul was a man of prayer; he not only believed in prayer, but he prayed. His Christian life began in prayer (Acts 9:10-11); he prayed for himself (2 Corinthians 12:7-9); and he asked others to pray for him (Ephesians 6:18-20). But in addition to this he practiced intercession, praying for others, like his Lord (John 17:9). The prayer which we are considering is a combination of praise and prayer, and all our prayers should be mixed with much praise (Philippians 4:6). Paul was filled with praise (Colossians 1:3 and 12); and with prayer (verses 3 and 9). Verses 9-14 tell us what he prayed for.

The Characteristics of Paul’s prayer for his friends.

What was Paul’s prayer like? Verse 9 tells us three things about it:-

It was marked by Persistency. The words in verse 9, “We have not stopped praying for you…” tell us that Paul knew something about unceasing prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and compare Luke 18:1. Prayer is a warfare (Ephesians 6:12); and if we give up when we are praying the battle goes to the enemy. We need the grace of continuance (compare Acts 2:42 with 1 Samuel 12:23).

It was marked by Intensity. Paul was passionate in his praying – he was filled with a deep longing. Look up Matthew 17:21 and read the story in 1 Kings 17:17-24. Do we know anything about prayer which is accompanied by fasting? - Read Nehemiah 1:1-11!

It was marked by Unity. In verse 9 Paul also says, “We have not stopped praying for you.” We may pray alone (Matthew 6:6 and James 5:17); but there is special power in united, corporate prayer (Matthew 18:19 and Acts 12:5).

The Content of Paul’s prayer for his friends.

In Colossians 1:9-14 we are told that Paul prayed for seven things:-

That they might be given Perception. In verse 9 Paul prayed that God would fill the Colossians “with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” We have no greater need than for spiritual enlightenment in order that we might know the will of God and do it. By nature we cannot understand the things of the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 2:14 and John 3:2-3). How many Christians lack spiritual understanding (1 John 2:20)!

That they might lead lives Pleasing to the Lord. This is mentioned in verse 10: “that you may.…please him in every way” Our greatest ambition should be to please the Lord in all things – look up and compare Romans 15:3 and Galatians 1:10.

That they might engage in Profitable service. Verse 10 says, “…bearing fruit in every good work…” Until we become Christians our lives are unprofitable, and it is only when we are converted that they are made profitable (Philemon verses 10-11). God’s will is that our lives should be fruitful, that they should show the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Compare 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and 2 Peter 1:5-7. Also compare Acts 13:13 with 2 Timothy 4:11.

That they might make Progress in the Christian life. Verse 10 continues – “…growing in the knowledge of God”, and the operative word is “growing”. Paul longed that these Christians at Colossi should grow. So many Christians do not, and it is only as we know the Lord that we grow spiritually and morally (Daniel 11:32). See the beautiful picture contained in Hosea 14:5-7. The Christian life is in three stages – “children”, “fathers”, “young men” – look up 1 John 2:12-14.

That they might be endued with Power. Verse 11 goes on – “being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might…” Here Paul prays that these Colossian Christians might have the experience of Pentecost (Acts 2:4), because none of these things are possible in our own strength (Ephesians 3:16 and Philippians 2:13). Potentially, the power of the Holy Spirit has been given to us – but what about experimentally? – Look up Acts 1:8.

That they might have Patience. In verse 11 there are three vital words – endurance, patience and joy, and the apostle prays that these Christians might endure in the face of fierce testing, that they might do so with a gentle and loving spirit, and that they might be filled with joy, even though called upon to suffer for their Lord (Acts 5:41, and compare 1 Peter 4:13).

That they might be filled with Praise. It is very important to notice the difference between praise and prayer. There are some things for which we are to pray, which we have noticed; but there are other great blessings to thank God for, because He has already given them to us – notice the word “have” in verse 14. What are they?

Thank God for His Provision (verse 12). He has given us an “inheritance” – compare 1 Peter 1:4.

Thank God for His Power (verse 13). He has rescued us from and brought us into – compare Exodus 14:13-31.

Thank God for His Pardon (verse 14). How we should thank God that all our sins have been removed from us, swept away, hurled into the depths of the sea, and that God will remember them against us no more! – Look up Psalm 103:12; Isaiah 44:22; Micah 7:19 and Hebrews 10:17.

STEPHEN’S PRAYER FOR HIS ENEMIES

(Scripture Portion: Acts 7:59-60)

In order to gain the significance of Stephen’s prayer for his enemies and for himself, which he offered during his martyrdom, it is necessary to make a careful study of Acts 7:54-60. Stephen is the first known Christian martyr, and down the centuries many others have followed him and have died out of faithfulness to their Lord. Stephen was a very remarkable character, and in Acts chapter 6 we have an account of this and of his ministry. In Acts chapter 7 we can read of his address before the Council, of the fury of his hearers, and of the subsequent suffering that he endured. Stephen was a man habitually ‘full’ of the Holy Spirit, and this was the secret of his life and testimony in the hour of death – compare Acts 6:3 and 5, and Acts 7:55. Stephen was so intent on being faithful to his Lord that when he saw Him in His glory he declared the fact, and this only roused the greater fury of his enemies (verses 55,56,57); for we read in verses 57 and 58 that they rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and stoned him. We will now consider Stephen’s prayer, and there are four questions which we need to ask and answer:-

HOW DID HE PRAY?

He prayed to the Lord. He addressed his prayer, not to the Saints, or to the Virgin Mary, but to the Lord – as verses 59 and 60 show us. This tells us about the direction of Stephen’s prayer, and it shows us to whom we should pray. It is not wrong to pray to the Lord Jesus, for He is God – look up and compare Acts 12:5, noticing the words “to God”.

He prayed through the Spirit. In Jude 20 we find the expression “pray in the Holy Spirit”. How is it possible to pray in this way? – Only by being filled with the Holy Spirit – compare Acts 7:55. Because Stephen was full of the Spirit he was able to pray in the Spirit – compare Romans 8:26-27 and James 5:16. The Holy Spirit is the Inspirer of all true prayer.

He prayed in faith. Stephen’s quiet confidence, even in the midst of such terrible suffering, is an evidence of his complete trust in the Lord to sustain him and to see him through, and so in faith he lifted up his eyes to Heaven, saw the Lord Himself and spoke to Him – see verse 59. Faith is a condition for successful praying – look up Mark 11:24.

WHAT DID HE PRAY FOR?

He prayed that the Lord might be glorified. We cannot escape the fact that this was the whole intent and emphasis of his prayer when we read verses 55 and 56. The desire and passion of this man’s heart was the glory of God; his prayer was a heart-longing for the glory of God, and that should be the motive in all prayer.

He prayed that his enemies might be forgiven. We are told this in verse 60, which reminds us of Luke 23:34. We are also reminded of the words of the Lord Jesus in Matthew 5:38-44 and Matthew 6:14-15. An unforgiving spirit will always be a hindrance to answered prayer.

He prayed that he might be released. That is, released from the body, as verse 59 tells us. Here again he prayed like his Master (Luke 23:46); and his prayer tells us that he was confident about death. He had no doubts or fears; he knew the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:8 and Philippians 1:21, so he prayed like Simeon – look up Luke 2:29-32.

WHEN DID HE PRAY?

He prayed while he served the Lord. We can be quite sure about this. His whole life was a prayer, and it is certain that while he preached and pressed home the truth he prayed; he prayed continually – look up Hebrews 5:7; and he prayed effectually – look up James 5:16.

He prayed as he suffered for the Lord. While he was being stoned and while the blood was flowing he prayed, and this was surely the secret of his radiant testimony and of the fact that he was so marvelously sustained in the hour of trial. There is a special promise given to us for the “day of trouble” – look it up in Psalm 50:15.

He prayed as he was dying for the Lord. Verse 60 tells us this, and his spirit went to be with Christ, as verse 59 tells us – look again at 2 Corinthians 5:8.

THE RESULTS OF HIS PRAYING

He was faithful to death. How absolutely true and unflinchingly loyal to his Lord this man was, even in the face of such provocation and suffering, even when he was being stoned to death! How many have suffered, and how many more will suffer even to death out of love and loyalty to the Lord! Look up Revelation 2:10 and 7:9-17!

He was fearless in the face of death. Please notice this carefully. There is no need to have any fear about death if we know the Lord as our Savior, our great High Priest and our Mediator (Hebrews 7:25; 4:14-16 and 1 Timothy 2:5); and if we know Him as the one who is there at the right hand of God in the place of power and authority (Hebrews 2:9-10).

He was fruitful in his death. God used his death in a wonderful way. “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church” – compare Acts 7:58 (last part) and Acts 8:1 (first part) with Acts 22:20, and then look at Acts 8:2 – what a funeral service! But God used it all, for, as Augustine said, “If Stephen had not prayed, the Church would not have had Paul!”

THE BRIDE’S PRAYER FOR THE BRIDEGROOM’S RETURN

(Scripture Reference: Revelation: 22:20)

We check last-but-one verse in the Bible – Revelation 22:20, and it introduces the glorious theme of the personal, visible and bodily return of our Lord Jesus Christ. This verse contains:

(1) The Promise of the Bridegroom – “Yes, I am coming soon.”

(2) The Prayer of the Bride – “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”

The Lord Jesus is the Bridegroom (Matthew 9:14-15; Matthew 25:1-13; John 3:29). The Church, which is constituted of all who are called out (Acts 15:14), baptized into His Body (1 Corinthians 12:13), born again of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5), and washed in His precious blood (1 John 1:7), is the Bride – look up Revelation 22:17. While it is our main object to center our thoughts upon the Prayer of the Bride, we must consider first of all:-

THE PROMISE OF THE BRIDEGROOM

This is clearly and emphatically stated in Revelation 22:20 – “Yes, I am coming soon”. We may say three things here:-

It is an ancient promise. It was first made in Genesis 3:14-15.

It is an often-repeated promise. Throughout the Bible there are many references to the coming again of our Lord Jesus Christ.

It is a certain promise. All the promises of God are certain – “Yes, I am coming soon” – look up 2 Corinthians 1:20.

Our key-verse tells us that when the Bridegroom announces His return the Bride cries out with holy joy, and with an ardent desire prays, “Come, Lord Jesus!” How should we pray this prayer?

THE PRAYER OF THE BRIDE

(1) “Come, Lord Jesus, and see the light of life and be satisfied.” This prayer is prompted by a careful reading of Isaiah 53:10-12 and Hebrews 12:2. There is a reference here to the Calvary work of the Lord Jesus and that while He was on the Cross He anticipated the joy that would be His when many sinners would be saved. What a wonderful day it will be for our Lord when every saved sinner has been gathered into His presence, when after the suffering of His soul, He will see the light of life and be satisfied! The Bride longs for the Bridegroom to be filled with joy and satisfaction.

(2) “Come, Lord Jesus, and fulfil your gracious promise to me to receive me to yourself.” Our Lord made many promises about His return, but one in particular is recorded in John 14:3. How clear this promise is! Our Lord was not referring to death, or to the coming of the Holy Spirit, or to any historical event on earth, but to His personal coming again to receive believers to Himself so that He might take them to be with Him in Heaven.

(3) “Come, Lord Jesus, for every time I take the bread and the wine I anticipate you’re coming again.” In 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 we have the order for remembering the Lord in His death. Note the words in verse 26 – “until he comes”. Here is the Bride sitting at the table of her Bridegroom, and on the table are the emblems of His love for her; she remembers Him with gratitude and her heart goes out to Him as she anticipates His return. The Bride joyfully anticipates the coming of the Bridegroom, when there will be the marriage supper of the Lamb – look up Revelation 19:6-9.

(4) “Come, Lord Jesus, for I long to see again the loved ones who will come with you.” Many Christians have loved ones who died ‘in Christ’ and they long to meet them again. When will that be? When the Lord Jesus comes! (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Notice five aspects in relation to the Lord’s coming – Return, Resurrection, Rapture, Reunion, and Reign. We shall meet our loved ones again and recognize them – what a comforting word this is (verse 18)! The Bride longs for the Bridegroom to return because He will not come alone.

(5) “Come, Lord Jesus, and help me to live for you as I wait, watch and work, so that I shall not be ashamed at your coming.” John reminds us in 1 John 2:28 that a loving Bride will keep herself pure for her Bridegroom. She will want to please Him. Look up and compare 2 Peter 3:11, 14; Mark 13:35, where we learn that we are to work for Him, and 1 Thessalonians 1:10, where we learn that we are to wait for Him. The Bride’s greatest desire will be to bring joy to the heart of the Bridegroom.

(6) “Come, Lord Jesus, for I am waiting to see you as you are, and to be changed into your likeness.” 1 John 3:1-3 should be read carefully, and particular note should be taken of the words in the second part of verse 2. We are actually going to be like the Lord! Every day we should be being changed into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18), and God’s ultimate purpose is that we should be conformed to His image (Romans 8:29). Because the Bridegroom is perfect in His character the Bride longs to be like Him.

(7) “Come, Lord Jesus, for only then will my union with you and my vision be one of sight and not just one of faith.” As believers, we are now joined to the Lord, but we are waiting to see Him (Revelation 1:7), and it is only when we see Him that faith will be lost in sight. This is what Peter had in mind when he said – 2 Peter 1:8! Every loving Bride longs to see and be with her Bridegroom.

These are seven suggested prayers, the Bride’s prayers for the Bridegroom’s return. As the Lord says to you, “Yes, I am coming soon”, will you not cry out with great joy, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”?

Jesus is on the way prepare together with others I pray for guide from the lord God bless y

Jesus Is Lord And He Is Coming Soon!!!!!!!!!!

THE PROMISE

CHAPTER 1

THE WORD.

introduction.

The Bible was written by about 40 men over a period of about 1600 years dating from about 1500 BC to about 100 AD. These men wrote Scripture as they were inspired of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Bible has 66 books, divided into 1,189 chapters consisting of 31,173 verses. The word “Bible” comes from Latin “biblia” meaning books. The word “testament” means “covenant”. The longest book in the Bible is Psalms of which there are 150 chapters or Psalms. The shortest book in the Bible is 2 John with 13 verses. The longest chapter in the Bible with the most verses is Psalms 119 with 176 verses. The longest verse in the Bible is Esther 8:9 with 83 words. The shortest verse in the Bible is John 11:35, “Jesus wept”.

The Bible is the most translated book in the world. It has been translated into more different languages and dialects than any other book that has been written, more than 1700. The first translation of the English Bible was initiated by John Wycliffe and was completed by John Purvey in 1388. The Bible was divided into chapters by Stephen Langton in 1228. The Old Testament was divided into verses by R. Nathan in 1488 and the New Testament by Robert Stephanus in 1551. The Bible was the first book to be printed in 1454. The Bible continues to be the best seller in the world. It is the only book that reveals the origin, mission, and destiny of man. It answers some crucial questions. Who am I? Where did I come from? Where am I going? Nowhere else can we find these answers. It is our only textbook on how to get to Heaven. There are now in existence about 4000 known manuscripts of the Bible or parts of the Bible made between the 2nd and 15th centuries. This if far more than the manuscripts of any other ancient writing.

The backgrounds of the 40 inspired writers were very diverse. They include Samuel the judge; Amos the sheep herder and farmer; Ezra the priest; Nehemiah the statesman; David & Solomon were kings; prophets; Peter and John were fishermen; Matthew a tax collector; Luke a physician; Paul a tentmaker; and a host of other backgrounds. Its chapters were written in palaces and prisons, in cities and in wildernesses, in times of war and in times of peace, and many other circumstances. It was written in three languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek; and on three continents: Europe, Asia, and Africa. The prophesies stand alone in their graphic detail, accuracy, and exacting fulfillment. Yet with the 40 different writers over a 1600-year span of time in three different continents, there are no contradictions because they were all inspired by an all-knowing all-wise God. Many of the inspired writers were unaware of one another’s writings and sometimes in the dark as to the meaning of their own words. 1 Peter 1:10-11 says, “Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that should follow."

It is better to speak the truth in love that hurts than falsehood that comforts and then kills. It is not love or friendship if we fail to declare the whole counsel of God. It is much better to be disliked for telling the truth than to be loved for telling a lie. Any teaching that is without Bible authority and integrity is false teaching and will cause both the teacher and those being taught to be eternally lost. Any teaching that is more than what the Bible teaches is false teaching. Any teaching that is less than what the Bible teaches is false teaching. Anyone who teaches that which is different from the Bible will be held accountable by the Lord on Judgment Day. Down through the ages the Bible has come under attack with criticism, perversion, and abuse in Satan’s effort to cast doubt on the truthfulness of God’s word. Many have sought to ban and destroy the Bible, but their efforts have been futile. In spite of all this the Bible has survived completely intact. There is no conflict between the Bible and the facts of science. But there are conflicts between the Bible and the theories of so-called scientists.

The Word is a Tool, and Cristian Guide.

Discuss 2 Tim 3:15-17

The Bible is not a collection of stories, fables and myths, or merely a human idea about who God ought to be, or an imagination or a fiction of what heaven looks like. Bible is not a human book. It is not generated by men, nor its foundation found with men. Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed His person and plan to certain people, who wrote down His Message to His people. (2 Pet 1:20, 21). This is what is called inspiration. The writers, though human, never wrote from their minds nor understanding. For example, David under the influence of the Holy Spirit Writes Psalm 110:1, which is fulfilled and explained in Matt22:24. The writers wrote from their own personal, historical, and cultural contexts. This means the circumstances were not the same under which the Bible books were written. They used different styles and language in writing, but they only wrote what God Himself wanted them to write. Scripture is completely trustworthy, because God was in control. Read the Bible and let it guide your conduct. The Bible is our standard for testing everything else that claims to be true. It is our safeguard against false teachings, doctrines and our source of guidance on how we should live. It is our only source of knowledge on how we should be saved. Read the Word regularly to discover God’s truth, and to be confident in your life and faith. It equips us to do good. We should not study God’s Word basically to gain knowledge or to prepare us to win arguments. Our Biblical knowledge is not useful unless it strengthens our faith and leads us to do good.

The Word is Complete

Discuss Revelation 22:18 – 17, Deuteronomy 4:1 – 4

Besieged by false teachers and inevitable pressure to conform to worldly standards, most Christians have abandoned their true faith to follow after the seducing spirits of the devils or have added to themselves teachings that would cushion them from reality, at least while on earth. Some have modified the true doctrines to at least accommodate their apostate ways. To modify doctrine, they have either ignored (removed) or included (added) some writings of the Word. Just as the first generation or second-generation Christians were faced with such, today we are faced with similar case but we must not allow our society to distort or crowd out the true Word of God. People have purposefully distorted the Bible, to suit their lustful teachings and songs. We must handle the Bible with great respect, so that we don’t distort its message, even unintentionally. No human explanation or interpretation supersedes the Word or to be elevated to the same authority as the text itself. (2 Tim 4:2,3)

The Word of God is complete. How can mortal man with limited knowledge edit what the perfect God has done? To presume to make changes in God’s law is to assume a position of authority over God who gave the laws. The Word is thus complete and is to remain unchanged. (Matt 5:17 – 19; 15:3 – 9). In Jesus time the religious leader did elevate their teachings above or at the same level to God’s Word. Jesus rebuked them for this. (Matt 23:1 – 4)

THE INERRANCY OF THE BIBLE.

The word inerrancy means “freedom from error or untruths.” Synonyms include “certainty, assuredness, objective certainty, infallibility.” The Bible is thus free of error. It is important to bear in mind that belief in inerrancy is in keeping with the character of God. If God is true and He is (Rom. 3:4), and if God breathed out the Scripture, then the Scripture, being the product of God, must also be true. This is why the Psalmist affirms, “All your words are true” (Ps. 119:160a).

Clarifications regarding inerrancy

Inerrancy demands the account, does not teach error or contradiction.In the statements of Scripture, whatever is written is in accord with things as they are. Details may vary but it may still reflect things as they are. For example, in Matthew 8:5-13 it is noted that the centurion came to Jesus and said, “I am not qualified.” In the parallel passage in Luke 7:1-10 it is noted that the elders came and said concerning the centurion, “He is worthy.” It appears the elders first came and spoke to Jesus, and later the centurion himself came. Both accounts are in accord with things as they are.
Inerrancy allows for departure from standard forms of grammar.Obviously it is wrong to force English rules of grammar upon the Scriptures. For example, in John 10:9 Jesus declares, “I am the door,” whereas in verse 11 He states, “I am the Good Shepherd.” In English this is considered mixing metaphors, but this is not a problem to Greek grammar or Hebrew language. In John 14:26 Jesus refers to the Spirit (pneuma = neuter) and then refers to the Spirit as “He” (ekeinos = masculine). This may raise an English grammarian’s eyebrows, but it is not a problem of Greek grammar.

Do you accept the Bible as the true Word of God?

What Happens If Inerrancy Is Denied?

If the Bible teaches inerrancy, then to deny it is to deny that which the Scripture claims is true. Further, if the Bible contains some errors, how can we be sure that its claims concerning Christ, salvation, man, etc., are true? Also, the chronology, geography, and history of the Bible are often woven together like strands of a basket with vital spiritual truths. As you cannot start pulling strands out of a woven basket without doing damage to the whole, so it is with the Bible.For instance, is the history of Adam and Eve important? Absolutely, for Paul developed a theological analogy between Adam and Christ which essentially breaks down if it is historically not true. The Old Testament has dozens of prophecies of the coming Messiah that detail his lineage. If the genealogy of Matthew 1 and Luke 3 are historically inaccurate, then this raises questions about whether Jesus is the one anticipated as well as about the rest of His life.

A denial of inerrancy is a serious matter and will lead to the following kinds of problems doctrinally and practically:

When inerrancy is denied one may expect some serious fallout in both doctrinal and practical areas.

Some doctrinal matters which may be affected by denying inerrancy include the following.

(1) A denial of the historical fall of Adam.

(2) A denial of the facts of the experiences of the Prophet Jonah.

(3) An explaining away of some of the miracles of both the Old and New Testaments.

(4) A denial of the Mosaic authorship of the Pentateuch.

(5) A belief in two or more authors of the Book of Isaiah.

(6) A flirting with or embracing of liberation theology with its redefining of sin (as societal rather than individual) and salvation (as political and temporal rather than spiritual and eternal).

Some lifestyle errors that may follow a denial of inerrancy include the following.

(1) A loose view of the seriousness of adultery.

(2) A loose view of the seriousness of homosexuality.

(3) A loose view of divorce and remarriage.

(4) “Cultural” reinterpretation of some of the teachings of the Bible (e.g., teaching on women, teaching on civil obedience).

(5) A tendency to view the Bible through a modern psychological grid.

Inerrancy is an important doctrine, the denial or even diluting of which may result in serious doctrinal and life errors.59

Support for Inerrancy
from the Teachings of Christ

A study of what Jesus said about the Bible reveals not only His belief in its verbal, plenary inspiration, but that He also believed it was inerrant. In fact, the greatest testimony to the authenticity of the Bible as God’s inspired and inerrant Word is the Lord Jesus. Why is His testimony so important? Because God authenticated and proved Him to be His own divine Son by the resurrection (cf. Acts 2:22-36; 4:8-12; 17:30-31; Rom. 1:4). Christ not only clearly confirmed the authority of the Old Testament, but He specifically promised the New Testament.

Note what Christ taught about the inspiration of the Old Testament:

(1) Its entirety; the whole of the Bible is inspired (Matt. 4:4; 5:17-18). In Matthew 4:4, Jesus responded to Satan’s temptation by affirming verbal plenary inspiration when He said, man is to live by every word (plenary) that proceeds out of the mouth of God (inspiration). In Matthew 5:17-18, Christ promised that the entire Old Testament, the Law and the Prophets, would be fulfilled, not abolished. In fact, He declared that not even the smallest Hebrew letter, the yodh, which looks like an apostrophe (‘), or stroke of a letter, a small distinguishing extension or protrusion of several Hebrews letters (cf. the extension on the letter R with it absence on the letter P), would pass away until all is fulfilled. Christ’s point is that it is all inspired and true and will be fulfilled.

(2) Its historicity; He spoke of the Old Testament in terms of actual history. Adam and Eve were two human beings, created by God in the beginning, who lived and acted in certain ways (Matt. 19:3-5; Mark 10:6-8). He spoke of Jonah and his experience in the belly of the great fish as an historical event (Matt. 12:40). He also verified the events of the flood in Noah’s day along with the ark (Matt. 24:38-39; Luke 17:26-27). He verified God’s destruction of Sodom and the historicity of Lot and his wife (Matt. 10:15; Luke 17:28-29). These are only a few illustrations; many others exist.

(3) Its reliability; because it is God’s word, the Scripture must be fulfilled (Matt. 26:54).

(4) Its sufficiency; it is sufficient to witness to the truth of God and His salvation (Luke 16:31).

(5) Its indestructibility; heaven and earth will not pass away until it is all fulfilled. Nothing can stop its fulfillment (Matt. 5:17-18).

(6) Its unity; the whole of the Bible speaks and witnesses to the person and work of Christ (Luke 24:27, 44).

(7) Its inerrancy; men are often in error, but the Bible is not; it is truth (Matt. 22:29; John 17:17).

(8) Its infallibility; the Bible cannot be broken, it always stands the test (John 10:3

SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS IN CHRIST

(Ephesians l: 1 - 14)

The apostle Paul spent three years in Ephesus (Acts 19; and 20: 17-38), and as a result of his ministry a church was established in that city. Ten years later, from his prison in Rome, Paul wrote this Letter and sent it by Tychicus to the Christians there. Ephesians is a thrilling book because it tells us how we (or anyone) can become a Christian and how God wants us to live the Christian life. Chapters l – 3 tell us of our Wealth in Christ; and chapters 4 – 6 tell us of our Walk in Christ.

The Key Verse to the first three chapters is 1: 3, which introduces the theme of this first study. In the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ, God has made over to the believer His whole estate of spiritual wealth. Without Christ, and apart from Him, we have nothing, we are nothing and we can do nothing (John 15: 5); but, as believers, God says to us – Luke l5: 3l. How rich we are – yet how few of us realise our true wealth and “possess our inheritance” (Obadiah 17)! God has made His Son the source of all spiritual blessing, and the moment we receive Him as Saviour and Lord all the blessings which are in Him become ours. What are these blessings which are ours in Christ and which we need to appropriate and enjoy? Verses 4 -14 mention seven.

We have been CHOSEN in Christ before the Creation of the World (verse 4).

This is the great truth of Election. How wonderful that God should select us to be His very own! Notice when He chose us and why He chose us – compare John 15: 16 and l Peter 1:15-16. What a marvel of sovereign grace this is! Our salvation was certainly no after-thought in the mind of God; the whole plan was conceived in eternity past. Believer, do you ever wonder whether after all you will be saved? Read and rest upon verse 4, cast away your doubts forever – and look up John 6: 37-39.

We have been PREDESTINED unto the Adoption of Children (verses 4/5).

This word “predestine” means “to mark out beforehand”. In eternity God not only chose us but He planned what He would do with us. Election looks backward and tells us we were chosen (verse 4); predestination looks forward and tells us why we were chosen (verse 5). God’s purpose in choosing us is that we should be brought into His family and given the full status and privileges of sonship. Think of it – we who were lost and enemies have been chosen to be sons, members of the Royal Family of Heaven! – look up 1 John 3: 1-3, and compare Romans 8: l8, l9 and 23.

We have been ACCEPTED in the Beloved (verse 6).

This means that whereas God could never accept us in our sinful, unregenerate condition, yet once we trust Christ as our Saviour He does accept us in Him – compare Isaiah 64: 6 with Ephesians l: 6. This should banish all my doubts. If I look at my sinful self I doubt at once, but if I fix my eyes on Jesus (Hebrews l2: 2), in whom I am accepted, my doubts vanish, because God has accepted the perfect life and the finished work of His Son, and it is in Him that I find my acceptance.

We have been REDEEMED and all our sins have been forgiven (verse 7).

To redeem is to buy back, to release by ransom – look up 1 Peter 1: 18-19. We were “sold as a slave to sin” (Romans 7: 14), and we have been “bought at a price” (1 Corinthians 6: 20); and not only this, we have been forgiven - look up Isaiah 44: 22-23; Psalm l03: 12 and Luke 7: 47. God has not only made us His own, but He has made us fit to live with Him for ever. How has He done this? - “by His blood”; that is, by the sacrifice and atoning work of the Lord Jesus - look up Matthew 20: 28, and compare 2 Corinthians 5: 2l with Hebrews 9: 12; 1 Peter 1: 18 and 2: 24 and Revelation 1: 5-6.

We have been INITIATED into the Divine Mystery (verses 8 to 10).

This word “mystery” refers to truth which was once undisclosed but which God has now revealed. The particular “disclosure” referred to in verse 10 is that everything is moving towards the glorious consummation of all things, when Philippians 2: 10-11 will be a reality. Where has God made known unto us the mystery of His will (verse 9)? In His Word, which is “the word of the prophets made more certain” (2 Peter 1: 19). There we have God’s glorious plan for the future, until time is no more and the saved are with Him for all eternity.

We have obtained an INHERITANCE (verse 11).

In Christ we have everything we need for time and for eternity (verse 11) - look up 1 Peter 1: 4, and compare Romans 8: 17 and 32; 1 Corinthians 3: 21-23; 2 Timothy 2: 12 and Revelation 5: 10. Inheritance speaks of riches, wealth, possessions - and how rich we are in Him! Verse 14 tells us that we already have the guarantee of our inheritance. The Holy Spirit within us is the pledge that one day we shall enter into all that which already belongs to us in Christ - look up Ephesians 4: 30 and compare John 14: 16-17.

We have been SEALED with the Holy Spirit of Promise (verses 13 and 14).

This divine sealing denotes ownership and security; we belong to Him and we shall always belong to Him! – we have been sealed “unto the journey’s end” (Ephesians 4: 30).

These spiritual blessings belong to every Christian. They are only ours if we are “in Christ” (verse 3); if, having heard the gospel (verse 13), we have believed (verse 13).

GOD’S PICTURE OF THE NATURAL MAN

( Ephesians 2: 1-12)

The Bible, God’s inspired Word (2 Timothy 3: 16), is a picture book, a kind of family album of the human race. The pictures in God’s album are true to life; they are not touched-up, and therefore they are sometimes very uncomplimentary. By “the natural man” we mean the man who is not a Christian, who has never been born again, and who is described in Ephesians 2: 3 by the words “by nature…” - compare 1 Corinthians 2: 14. In this study we are to look at God’s photograph of fallen humanity, of every man and woman who is not a Christian, and of ourselves, apart from the grace of God and the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit. But before looking at God’s life-sized portrait of ourselves in Ephesians 2, notice the following pictures of the “natural man” in Genesis 6: 5; Psalm 14: 2-3; Isaiah 1: 5-6 and Isaiah 64: 6; Jeremiah 17: 9; Matthew 15: 18-20 and Romans 1: 21-32. When we turn to Ephesians 2: 1-12, we see what we were like before we were saved and what we are like now apart from the Lord Jesus.

The Natural Man is “dead in transgressions and sins” (verse 1). Compare Genesis 3: 15-17 with Romans 5: 12; then look up John 5: 24 and 40; 1 John 3: 14 and 5: 11-12; and compare Ephesians 4: 18. Physical death is the separation of the body from the soul; spiritual death is the separation of the soul from God, and by nature we are all spiritually dead.
The Natural Man walks “according to the ways of this world” (verse 2). That is, his conduct is according to the trend of the age in which he lives. The unregenerate person lives according to the standards of this world – with regard, for example, to his attitude towards sin, pleasures, dress, desires - look up Matthew 7: 13-14, and compare Psalm 1.
The Natural Man follows “the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient” (verse 2). In other words, by nature he is controlled by Satan. Our first parents listened to the lie of Satan, and when they yielded to him they became dominated by him - look up Genesis 3: 1-13; and we are likewise under the control of the Enemy of souls. Satan is a real person whose domain is the air, and he is tremendously active - look up 1 John 5: 19.
The Natural Man is a child “of disobedience” (verse 2). Our first parents disobeyed God, and we have inherited their fallen nature; consequently our natural tendency is to disobey the Lord - look up Psalm 51 :5, which tells us that by nature our tendency is to commit sin.
The Natural Man wants to gratify the cravings of his sinful nature and to follow its desires and thoughts (verse 3). The word “craving” does not necessarily refer to that which is revolting and impure, but to that which we naturally desire, and because we are spiritually dead and controlled by Satan our desires are fleshly, perverted, often sensual. Notice the words “sinful nature” ” in verse 3, and look up Romans 7: 18 and 8:8.
The Natural Man is a child “of wrath” (verse 3). This means that by nature men and women are condemned and are under sentence of death. Look up the following references and notice how forcibly this truth is brought out: - John 3: 18-19 and 3: 36; and Romans 1: 18-20. How solemn this is! Everyone who is not a Christian is condemned already and is under the wrath of God.
The Natural Man is “separate from Christ” (verse 12). See what the Lord Jesus said in John 14: 6. What a solemn thing it is to be “separate from Christ”! Millions around the world today are without Christ, the only Saviour of men - look up Acts 4: 12 and 1 Timothy 2: 5-6.

The Natural Man is “excluded from citizenship” (verse 12). To be unregenerate is to be a poor wandering outcast, a spiritually displaced person; it is to have no country, no Heavenly Home (John 14: 1-30) and this is the position of everyone who is not a Christian.

The Natural Man is a “foreigner” (verse 12). A foreigner has no claim whatsoever upon God. Only those who are related to God through faith in Christ Jesus and who are therefore members of His family have any claim on Him at all - compare Matthew 22: 11-13 and Luke 13: 25-26.
The Natural Man is “without hope” (verse 12). He is helpless, and apart from Christ his state is hopeless. Sometimes a doctor has to tell his patient that his case is hopeless – physically hopeless; but God tells us that apart from Christ our condition is spiritually hopeless - look up John 8: 21 and 24.
The Natural Man is “without God” (verse 12). He is a God-less man, like the rich farmer of whom we read in Luke 12:16-21 - look up and compare Luke 12: 24, where we read of the ravens who had no barns but they had God; and Luke 12: 18, where we read of the farmer who had barns but who had no God.

The Natural Man is an “enemy” of God (verses 15-16). By nature we

hate God – Psalm 14: 1 (lit.) – “No God for me!”

Here, then, is God’s picture of the Natural Man. According to God’s estimate man by nature is lost, helpless, completely ruined by sin, under the domination of Satan, and is therefore in need of a Saviour and of the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit. How very wonderful it is that in spite of all that we are by nature, God loves us and wants us – look at and revel in the glorious truth of Ephesians 2: 4-7.

BROUGHT NEAR BY THE BLOOD OF CHRIST

(Ephesians 2: 13-22)

In Ephesians 2: 1-3, and in verse 12, we are given God’s terrible but true description of fallen humanity. Apart from Christ we are: Dead in sin (verse 1); Deceived by the world (verse 2); Dominated by Satan (verse 2); Degenerate in our living (verse 3), and Doomed to punishment (verse 3). Left to ourselves we are utterly lost, helpless and hopeless. The world does not accept this description, but God declares it - look up Romans 3: 10-18. What is God’s attitude towards fallen humanity? We certainly have no claim on God and our completely bankrupt, destitute and disobedient state would justify Him in having nothing more to do with us. What is His attitude towards us? Notice in the second chapter of Ephesians that there are two wonderful “buts” which reveal to us the amazing love of God in Christ Jesus: the first of these is in verse 4, and the second is in verse l3. The Lord Jesus, by His death on Calvary’s cross, has brought us back into full fellowship with God. All that was lost by sin and the Fall has been regained and fully restored, and we (who believe) have been “brought near…” What exactly does this mean? It means at least seven wonderful things.

We have been Born Again and have Received Eternal Life (verses l and 5).

We who were spiritually dead because of sin have been made alive, by the miracle of the new birth (John 3: 3 and 5). The moment we believed on Christ and received Him as our Saviour (John 1: 12), we were born of God (John 1:13). Having received the Lord Jesus Christ we became possessors of eternal life (1 John 5: 11-12), and partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1: 4).

We have been Raised to Sit in Heavenly Places in Christ (verse 6).

And what does that mean? It does not mean that we are seated with Christ in heavenly places; the verse does not say that. We are seated in heavenly places “in Christ Jesus”; and this means that through faith we are united to and with Christ who has been raised and exalted to the highest heights in glory. We who were down in the lowest depths have been raised up to the highest heights in Christ! That is our new position through grace. We are now “citizens of heaven” (Philippians 3: 20).

We have been Saved by His Grace (verses 8 to 10).

What a great word is this word “saved”! It includes all the blessings which become ours through faith in Christ. Notice in verses 8 to 10 that: (1) Salvation is a present possession; (2) It is altogether by grace; (3) It is a gift received by faith alone; (4) It is “to do good works”.

We have been Reconciled and are now at Peace with God (verses 14 – 17).

We, who were enemies, have been reconciled to God through the blood-shedding of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is blessedly true that through Christ all racial and social barriers have been broken down, but the greatest barrier of all is that which existed between ourselves and God which has been completely swept away in the Person and through the finished work of the Lord Jesus. Meditate upon the words in verse 14: “He is our peace”, and compare Romans 5:1.

We have been Brought into a New Relationship with God (verse 18).

Each word in this verse is worth pondering. “….through Him” refers to our Lord Jesus Christ; “both…” means Jew and Gentile; “access…” means an entrance and a welcome; “one Spirit…” refers to the Holy Spirit; and now notice the important ending of the verse, “to the Father”. The moment we are “brought near”, we know God not only as the holy and just God and the powerful Creator, but as our gracious, loving heavenly Father.

We have been Made Members of the Household of God (verse 19).

The “household of God” is the Church. How do we become members of the Church? By the baptism of the Spirit - look up 1 Corinthians 12: 13. The Lord Jesus is the foundation of the Church (1 Corinthians 3: 11), but Paul tells us here that the apostles and the New Testament prophets are foundation members, for it was through their ministry that the Church was “joined together” and started to grow into “a holy temple in the Lord” (verse 21).

We have been Made Fit Dwelling Places for God (verse 22).

The Church is God’s holy temple, built by the Holy Spirit, and believers are living stones by which the temple has been built through the years. Soon God’s temple will be complete. Then will end the day of grace and we shall be raptured into his presence to be forever with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4: 15-17). But notice that the Church is “a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit”; and this is true of each individual member - see 1 Corinthians 6: 19.

By nature and by practice far -So nigh, so very nigh to God

How very far from God! I cannot nearer be;

Yet now by grace brought nigh to Him, For in the Person of His Son

Through faith in Jesus’ blood. I am as near as He.

So dear, so very dear to God,

More dear I cannot be;

The love wherewith He loves the Son –

Such is His love to me!

CHASEVEN TRUTHS ABOUT THE CHURCH

(Ephesians 3: 1-12)

In these verses we are told seven truths about the Church, and it is very important for us to understand these.

The MYSTERY of the Church.

The word “mystery” occurs in verses 3, 4 and 9. It does not mean that which is obscure or unintelligible, but it means a divine secret which is known only to those to whom it is revealed – note verse 3, and compare 1 Corinthians 2: 7-12. The special revelation of the truth of the Church was first made to Paul, but he would not have understood the dispensational significance of the “mystery” of the Church apart from the revelation given to him by God; and likewise we cannot understand the significance of the “mystery” without the help and illumination of the Holy Spirit. For further study look up Romans 11: 25; 1 Corinthians 15: 51; Ephesians 3: 3-4 and 6: 19; 1 Timothy 3:l6.

The MEANING of the Church.

What do we mean when we speak of the Church? What does God mean? We are not thinking about a church, that is, a building; we are thinking about the Church – verse 10, and in verse 6 we are told what the Church is and how it is composed. The key word here is the word “Body”. The Church, then, is the Body of Christ – compare Ephesians 4: 12, 15 and 16 and Colossians 1: 18. If the Church is the Body of Christ and He is the Head of the Body, who are the members of the Church and how do they become members?

The MEMBERSHIP of the Church.

Verse 6 tells us that the Church, which is the Body of Christ, is composed of Jews and Gentiles. This is the “mystery” - that Jew and Gentile were to be united in one body was an entirely new thing. But how is the “Body”, the Church, formed? It is formed “through the gospel” (verse 6); that is, by the preaching of the gospel. When the gospel is preached the Holy Spirit convicts and converts, souls are born again – Jews and Gentiles – and are baptized into the Body of Christ - 1 Corinthians 12: 13. This is what the Holy Spirit is doing today (Acts 15: 13-14), and only those who have been born again and washed in the precious blood of Christ are true members of the Church, which is His Body.

The MISSION of the Church.

What is the function of the Church in the world? It is a two-fold function, as verses 8 and 10 make clear. The purpose and ministry of the Church in the world is that men may hear the gospel, and that to the angels and unseen hosts may be made known “the manifold wisdom of God.” Note the Church’s message - “the unsearchable riches of Christ”, and “the manifold wisdom of God” - not merely ethics, morality, philosophy or politics! The mission of the Church is not just to gather people together for “religious” purposes; it is not to compete with the world in worldly things, nor is it to convert the world. The mission of the Church is to evangelize the world – look up Matthew 28: 19.

The MINISTERS of the Church.

Verse 7 tells us that Paul was a minister, or servant, of the Church, and therefore of the gospel, but the word here is not used in any official sense. All true members of the Church are ministers of the Church and are responsible to take their share in proclaiming the gospel. Notice how we become ministers or servants. Paul writes, “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace” (verse 7). If the question is asked, “How are ministers made?”, the answer is that God makes them! – compare Ephesians 4: 11.

The MARKS of the Church.

This portion of scripture tells us also some of the characteristics of those men and women, Jews and Gentiles, who are members of the Church. What are they like, or what should they be like? Notice the following five marks which should characterise every member of the Body of Christ: (1) Captivity. Are we bond-slaves of the Lord Jesus? (verse 1); (2) Fellowship. The words “heirs” and “sharers together” remind us of that which we share in Christ (verse 6); (3) Humility. (verse 8); (4) Testimony. (verse 8); (5) Acceptance. (verses 11 – l2). Underline the words “approach”, “freedom”, “confidence” and “in Him”.

But who is sufficient for these things? Can we fulfil this high calling in our own strength? No! Note finally:-

The MIGHT of the Church.

This is indicated in verse 7 in the words, “the gift of God’s grace given me”; and also in the words, “through the working of His power.”

There are those who think that because the witness of the Church today is often weak and ineffective, and many Christians are half-hearted, the Church will decline until she fades away altogether! – but the Church will never fail, because the Lord Jesus Christ is her Founder, her Foundation, her Builder, and He has guaranteed that no power on earth or in Hell will prevail against His Church - look up Matthew l6: 13-18 and 1 Corinthians 3: 11.

LIVING WORTHILY!

(Ephesians 4: 1-3 and 17-26)

We now come to the second half of this letter. Chapters l – 3 are Doctrinal, and they emphasise our standing “in Christ”; chapters 4 – 6 are Practical, and they emphasise our state down here in the world. What we are “in Christ” must be related to what we are in the world. Doctrine must always issue in duty; our creed must be seen in our conduct. There are two dangers which we must always seek to avoid: (1) Teaching doctrine without relating it to duty – this will make for a mere intellectualism and a dead formalism; (2) Teaching duty which does not issue forth from doctrine – this will make for error, superficiality and spurious growth.

Notice in verse 1 how the apostle commences this second half of the letter: “…I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” - for the first mark of a saved person is that his life is different. It used to be like Ephesians 2: 2-3 and 4: 17-19, but now – what a change has taken place!

The CONSTRAINT of a Worthy Life.

What is it that constrains us to live a worthy life? We are constrained by a tender, loving appeal, as verse 1 indicates. Paul had led these Ephesians to Christ, and now from the prison in which he languishes he writes to his spiritual children and says, “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received”; that is, that your conduct corresponds with your high calling in Christ Jesus. Behind this written appeal from Paul we hear the voice of our loving Lord beseeching us to “live worthily”. Are we going to respond to His appeal? – or are we going to live a life which is dishonouring to Christ? The choice is left with us. He has loved us and given Himself for us (Galatians 2: 20). Does His love compel us to do as He commands and to live a life which pleases Him? - look up 2 Corinthians 5: 14.

The CHARACTERISTICS of a Worthy Life.

We read of Enoch (Genesis 5: 22-24); of Abraham (Genesis 24: 40); and in the Old Testament we find many other references to those who “walked with God.” In the New Testament the same idea is conveyed in the words “behave decently” (Romans 13: 13); “live” ( 2 Corinthians 5: 7; Galatians 5: 16; Ephesians 5: 15; Colossians 2: 6); and “walk” (1 John 1: 7; and 3 John 3). All these references tell us of the marks or characteristics of the Worthy Life; but if we confine ourselves to the verses in our portion we see that:-

(1) A Worthy Life is a HEAVENLY Life (verse 1). “…the calling you have received.” Our calling is a heavenly calling (Hebrews 3:1); a high calling (Philippians 3:14) and a holy calling (2 Timothy 1:9). We are a heavenly people living upon the earth, and to live worthily means just that - to live the heavenly life on earth!

(2) A Worthy Life is a HUMBLE Life (verse 2) The word “humble” means to be selfless, utterly lacking in self-assertiveness. Look up Matthew 11: 29; Philippians 2:3; Titus 3: 2; and James 1: 21. The root meaning of the word is “a spirit that never takes offence” - that is, humility. Therefore – 1 Peter 5: 6.

(3) A Worthy Life is a HELPFUL Life (verse 2). The word “patient” means “to endure with an unruffled temper”; yes, to do that instead of being intolerant, impatient and critical! The word “bearing” is explained in Colossians 3: 13, and it means “lovingly putting up with what we don’t like in other people!” And, for all this, “love” is the motive power – as Ephesians 5: 2 makes plain.

(4) A Worthy Life is a HARD Life (verse 3). The words “make every effort…” mean “to strive with great earnestness and unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Paul speaks here of ‘effort’, and that means toil, striving and perseverance. It can be hard work, but we must “make every effort”. God has wonderfully united all believers in the Body of Christ (verses 4 – 6), and the Holy Spirit dwells within us to make that unity real. Our responsibility as members of the Body is to maintain that unity - look up Romans 12: 18!

(5) A Worthy Life is a HOLY Life (verse 3). The word “Spirit” refers to the Holy Spirit who indwells us and who is very easily grieved (Ephesians 4: 30), and with whom we are to be constantly filled (Ephesians 5: 18).

In verses 17 – 26 we are given five injunctions which must be obeyed if we are to behave ourselves in a holy way (1 Thessalonians 2: 10):- (i) in verses 17 – 19 we must “NO LONGER…”; (ii) in verse 22 we are to “PUT OFF…”; (iii) in verse 24 we are to “PUT ON…”; (iv) in verse 25 we are to “PUT OFF…”; (v) in verse 26 we MUST NOT…

The CONSUMMATION of a Worthy Life.

How long does this earthly life go on, and where and how does it end? Verse 13 tells us. That will be Glory!

When He comes, our glorious King,

All His ransomed home to bring,

Then anew this song we’ll sing:Hallelujah! What a Saviour!

GIFTS FROM THE ASCENDED LORD

(Ephesians 4: 4-16)

In Ephesians 4: 4-6, emphasis is given to those great fundamental facts of the Christian faith which are at once its unifying features. In verses 7 – 16, the apostle writes of the diversity of gifts which characterise those who are members of Christ’s Body, the Church. This is an intriguing theme, and we need also to refer to three other New Testament passages which deal with the subject of spiritual gifts - look up Romans 12: 3-8; 1 Corinthians l2: 4-11 (indeed, chapters 12, 13 and 14); and 1 Peter 4: 10-11. Let us confine our study to the teaching embodied in Ephesians 4: 4-16, and notice the following:-

The GIVER of the Gifts.

This is brought out in verses 7, 8 and 11, where we are told that Christ Himself gives spiritual gifts to the members of His Church; but especially notice verse 8, which is a quotation from Psalm 68: 18. The Lord Jesus went down into death, was raised and then ascended to Heaven. When He ascended, having conquered sin, death and Hell, He “led captives in his train” – (these were the Old Testament saints who up until the Ascension dwelt in Paradise), and then He received gifts from the Father in order that He might bestow these gifts upon the Church. But who does He give these gifts to?

The RECIPIENTS of the Gifts.

Are spiritual gifts only for a few members of the Body, the Church? - look at verse 7, and underline the words, “to each one of us”. That refers to every true believer. Every Christian, without exception, has received some gift from the risen and exalted Lord – see Romans 12: 4, where we are told that we all have some “function”; also 1 Corinthians 12:4-5 and 1 Peter 4: 10. It is wrong for any Christian to say, “There’s nothing I can do”, or, “My days of service are over now!” But note this wonderful fact: to every Christian has been given grace as Christ apportioned it (verse 7). You see, the nature of the gift determines the measure of grace that is supplied in order that we may exercise the gift. Grace is given to the preacher to preach, to the pray-er to pray, to the teacher to teach, to the helper to help (1 Corinthians 12: 28), and so on! But do all have the same gifts?

The DIVERSITY of the Gifts

Look at verse 11. Here Paul mentions five special gifts which the Lord has given to His Church, (or, five kinds of men to whom are given these special gifts):-

Apostles:} These were given for the purpose of laying the foundations of
Prophets :} the Church, as Ephesians 2: 20 tells us.
Evangelists: An evangelist’s ministry is especially directed towards the unconverted - look up 2 Timothy 4: 5.
Pastors: The word means “shepherds” – compare John 21: 15-17 and Acts 20:28. This is a caring ministry for the sheep in Christ’s fold.
Teachers: The work of the teacher is to instruct the Church in the things of God, to give milk to the babes (1 Peter 2: 2), and meat to those who are more mature (Hebrews 5: 14) in order that there may be growth and stability.

In 1 Corinthians 12: 8-11, and also in verses 14-25, we read of other gifts besides those mentioned above. Perhaps yours is mentioned there? Study this whole portion carefully, and then notice the little word "help" in 1 Corinthians 12: 28. Each gift is important and necessary. What is your gift? But what are the gifts for?

The PURPOSE of the Gifts.

In verses 12 and 14, we are told of a three-fold purpose that the Lord has in giving these gifts to His Church.

(1) To Prepare us for Service. This is what verse 12 tells us. The meaning is this: The Lord has given evangelists, pastors, teachers, etc…” to prepare God’s people for works of service.” The evangelists, pastors and teachers are not to do all the ministry, but their chief task is that of getting the saints to function actively as members of the Body.

(2) To Help us to Grow. Verse 12 goes on to say, “so that the body of Christ may be built up” God does not want us to remain as babies spiritually (1 Corinthians 3: 1-3), but He wants us to grow up (2 Peter 3: 18); therefore, He has given gifts to the Church, in order that the members may grow – look at verse 15!

(3) To Protect us from Harm. The Enemy is always ready to deceive even the “elect” (Matthew 24: 24), and in order that we may be protected against his “false prophets” (Mark 13: 22), and their “destructive heresies” (2 Peter 2:1), the Lord has placed teachers in the Church so that we may be instructed in the truth and know how to detect the Devil’s deadly counterfeits and lies!

The ultimate purpose that the Lord has in giving gifts to His Church is indicated in verse 13 – which tells us also about:

The DURATION of the Gifts.

How long will the gifts be needed in the Church? Only until – verse 13! When we are with Christ, who is the Head of the Body, the Church, then He will be “all in all” (Ephesians 1: 23), and there will be no room for, or need of, gifts! He will be ALL!

SPIRITUAL INTOXICATION!

(Ephesians 5: 1 – 21)

In Ephesians 5: 18 a contrast is made between the person who is under the influence of alcohol and the person who is under the controlling influence of the Holy Spirit. We as Christians are not to be drunk with the wine that comes from any earthly vineyard but with the new wine of the Kingdom which comes from the heavenly vineyard, from Him who is the True Vine (John 15: 1). There is a purpose in setting these two commands in contrast. It was a pagan belief that God dwelt in the blood of the grape, so that in drinking wine man was drinking God into himself. Drunkenness was therefore held to be a sacrament in which a man was supposed to be under the control of the god who filled him. Paul reminded the Christians at Ephesus of this pagan belief, and then he pointed them to the true way of being God-possessed. Concerning the Spirit-filled life, let us notice the following truths:

The Spirit-filled life is a command. In Ephesians 5: 18 there are two commands, both of which require obedience; they are not optional, they are imperative.
The Spirit-filled life is a command to every Christian. The experience of the Holy Spirit’s fulness is not for a select company of believers, but for every born again person. Notice the word “all” in Acts 2: 4 and 4: 31.
To be filled with the Spirit is more than being indwelt by the Spirit. The Christians at Ephesus were “sealed” by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1: 13; 4:30), and thus they were indwelt by the Holy Spirit, as every Christian is (1 Corinthians 6:19), but we may be indwelt and not filled by Him; we may possess Him without His possessing us.
To be filled with the Spirit is not a matter of excess, but of sanity. The word “excess” means “riot”. The most spiritually sane people in the world are those who are filled with God’s Spirit. The Lord Jesus is our example.
The Spirit-filled life is to be the normal experience of God’s children. Ephesians 5: 18 means “Go on being filled…” God’s plan for every one of His children is that they may be filled with the Holy Spirit so that they may live lives that are glorifying to Him in all their personal (Ephesians 5: 15-21), domestic (Ephesians 5: 22-33 and 6: 1-4), and business (Ephesians 6: 5-9) relationships.
Being filled with the Spirit is not our getting more of Him; it is His getting more of us. The Holy Spirit is a Person, and to be filled with Him means to allow Him to take full possession of our personalities.
The Spirit-filled life is marked by certain definite and easily discernible characteristics. Just as a drunken man can easily be recognised, so can a Spirit-filled Christian be recognised; the same characteristics are true of both. What are they? - look up those that are mentioned in Ephesians 5: 14-21, and then consider the following.

A Drunkard is possessed by an Immense Sense of Well-being.

So is a Spirit-filled Christian! He is exhilarated, exuberant. The Greeks have a word for it – “Euphoria”, which means “an immense sense of well-being”. The first Christians were accused of being drunk (Acts 2: 15); the early disciples were noted for their intense joy - look up Acts 13:52.

A Drunkard is recognized by his Face.

So is a Spirit-filled Christian! Many of our faces are shadowed instead of shining! There should be a radiance about us, as there was with Moses (Exodus 34: 29); with Stephen (Acts 6: 15); with the Lord Jesus (Luke 9: 29) - and look up Psalm 34: 5, and compare Psalm 40: 3 with Ephesians 5: 19-20.

A Drunkard has a Characteristic Savor about him.

So does a Christian! You can smell a drunkard! – Now look at Ephesians 5: 2. Our Lord Jesus Christ was as holy incense before the Father and before the world; Christians, by being filled with His Spirit are to be, and may be, the same. The Spirit-filled life is God’s provision for making our lives beautiful, graceful and gentle.

A Drunkard can be detected by the Way he walks.

So can a Spirit-filled Christian! Our walk is our manner of life, and according to Ephesians 5: 15 a drunkard’s walk is careless, whereas the walk of the Spirit-filled man is very circumspect – that is, disciplined and consistent. The drunkard cannot walk straight, but the Spirit-filled Christian is enabled to live before God and the world in a way that is upright and honest in every respect.

A Drunkard is betrayed by the Way he speaks.

So is a Spirit-filled Christian! Many a drunkard has a stammering tongue, and often his speech is impure and foul. A Spirit-filled Christian will be very careful in the words he uses and in the matters of which he speaks, and, of course, a Spirit-filled Christian will be a testifying Christian - look up Acts 4: 20!

A Drunkard is not responsible for his Actions.

Nor is a Christian! A drunkard does many foolish things because he cannot help it, and a Christian, if he is filled with the Holy Spirit, will produce from his life fruit which is supernatural (Galatians 5: 22-23), and works which are, humanly speaking, impossible – see what Peter said in Acts 3: 12.

A Drunkard is Known by the Company he Keeps.

So is a Spirit-filled Christian! A drunkard will make his way quickly to the bar; the Spirit-filled Christian will seek the fellowship of God’s people - look up Acts 4: 23.

How can we become Spirit-filled - possessed and controlled by the Holy Spirit? Think of the drunkard again. How does he become a drunkard? By drinking, and drinking and drinking again – and this drinking for us involves three things: (l) A Real Thirst (Isaiah 44: 3; Matthew 5: 6; John 7: 37-39); (2) A Great Capacity (Psalm 8l: 10); and (3) A Simple Faith (Luke 11:13; 1 John 5: 14-15).

THE CHRISTIAN’S RELATIONSHIPS

(Ephesians 5: 22-33 and 6: 1-19)

The importance of this subject is seen by the fact that the Holy Spirit has devoted such a large proportion of this letter to the relationships which should exist between Christian husbands and wives, parents and children, and masters and servants.

There is nothing more beautiful on earth than a Christian home. In this portion of scripture we have an inspired picture of what God intends a Christian home to be, and of what it is possible for it to be with His enabling.
The Christian life must be lived effectively first and foremost in the home. We are to carry our Christian experience into every relationship of life - personal, social, business, professional, recreational, etc., but first it must operate in the domestic sphere - look up and compare Mark 5: 19 and Luke 8: 39. Our lives must tell and our lips must tell first in the home - look up also 1 Timothy 5: 4 and Titus 2: 5.
The hardest place to live a really consistent life is in the home. This is because it is here that we most easily cast off restraint, and unless we have learned God’s way of victory and God’s plan for harmonious living, there is bound to be discord and friction.

The greatest testimony we can offer to the world is a happy, harmonious and peaceful Christian home. In the home Christianity is seen in action - look up 2 Kings 4: 8-10.
God has made provision for every one of His children to live a consistent Christian life in the home. That provision is the infilling of the Holy Spirit - Ephesians 5: 18. God’s ideal for a home is only possible of attainment by the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

How, then, should believers behave in the exacting relationships of domestic life? The answer is in verse 21. In other words, the secret of a happy and a harmonious home is mutual submission; not proud resistance, not striving to stand up for one’s “rights”, but a loving consideration of the other person, a mutual respect and loyalty, a Christ-like spirit. Consider in detail the relationships mentioned.

WIVES, submit to your husbands (5: 22-24 and 33).

These are not man’s ideas, they are God’s instructions. Wives are to submit themselves to their husbands “as to the Lord…in everything.” The Lord is the Head of the Body, the Church, and thus He cares for the Church, provides for it and protects it. The husband is to do this for his wife, and thus the wife is to submit herself to him as her head. “It is not a question of the superiority of the husband and the inferiority of the wife, but of the respective positions God, in His sovereign wisdom, has assigned to each.” From Creation this has been God’s order - see Genesis 2: 21-23 - and if the order is reversed there will always be trouble.

HUSBANDS, love your wives (5: 25-33).

The husband is to love his wife “just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” – that is, with a love that is unselfish and sacrificial. How often there is lack of thoughtful consideration and of understanding on the part of the husband, and how frequently this causes unhappiness in the home! A husband’s love for his wife must operate in every phase of the matrimonial, domestic and social life, which includes the more intimate relationships as well as those that are observed by others.

CHILDREN, obey your parents (6: 1-3)

These verses give us God’s order for a Christian home, and it is the only kind of home that He recognises. What a need there is today for children to give heed to verse 2! - look up 2 Timothy 3: 1-3, and notice that disobedience to parents is one of the signs of the apostasy of “the last days”. In our Lord Jesus Christ we have the perfect example of obedience - look up Luke 2: 51.

PARENTS, bring your children up for the Lord (6: 4)

Notice that this verse begins with a note of warning: “Do not exasperate your children” - look up Deuteronomy 6: 6-9. What a sacred ministry is entrusted to those who have children to “bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” - compare Proverbs 22: 6.

SERVANTS, be obedient to your masters (6: 5-6)

In Ephesus there were slaves in most households, and that is why the Holy Spirit has included this master-servant relationship here. What a high standard is expected from servants! We are to work for our earthly master just as if he were our heavenly Master (verses 5 and 7). This means that we shall not watch the clock, we shall not be late, lazy or disloyal – and God will surely reward us (verse 8).

MASTERS, consider the welfare of your servants (6: 9)

This means that employers are to give the same consideration as they expect and to which they are entitled from their employees. Here is food for thought for all employers!

These are God’s rules for happy, holy and harmonious human relationships, and they are only possible as we live in obedience to Ephesians 5: 18 - that is, as wives and husbands, children and parents, servants and masters seek to live their lives under the control of and in obedience to the Holy Spirit.

OUR ENEMY AND OUR WARFARE

(Ephesians 6: l0-19)

In his Letters the apostle Paul speaks of the Christian life under a number of suggestive metaphors. For example, in this letter to the Ephesians his favourite designation of the Christian is how he should LIVE - compare 2: 2; 4: 1 and 17; 5:2, 8 and 15. In chapters 5 and 6, wives (5: 22-24), husbands (5: 25-3l), children (6: 1-3), fathers (6: 4), servants (6: 5-8) and masters (6: 9), are told how to live and how to behave. But suddenly the apostle changes the metaphor, and in chapter 6, verse 10, he introduces us to something of the stern side of the Christian life; he tells us that there is a fight to be fought, that we have a powerful enemy to face, and that we can only be “more than conquerors” (Romans 8: 37) as we “put on the full armour of God.” As Christians, we are saints (Ephesians 1: 1), children (1: 5), believers (1: 13), servants (6: 5) - but we are also soldiers (6: 11), and compare 2 Timothy 2: 3-4, and as soldiers we are in a great conflict and have to fight (1 Timothy 6: 12; 2 Timothy 4: 7). We, as believers, are engaged in a WARFARE. In order that we may appreciate the necessity of putting on the whole armour of God if we are to be victorious soldiers in God’s army, let us first consider the nature of the conflict, then the character of the enemy, and finally, the secret of victory.

THE NATURE OF THE CONFLICT
It is a real warfare. It is a literal fight against a literal enemy. Notice the word “against” occurs six times in verses 11 and 12.
It is a conflict between real antagonists. Who are they? “The Lord” (6: 10), and “the Devil” (6: 11). The soldiers, or allies, of the Lord are the believers in Christ. Notice the word ‘our’ in verse 12, which refers to the saints. The allies of Satan are also mentioned in verse 12.
It is a fierce conflict. Ponder verse 12, and see how deadly a fight it is!
It is a hand-to-hand conflict. It is as literal as any battle against “flesh and blood”, but it is ten thousand times more deadly (verse 12), for it is a conflict not with the human and visible, but with the superhuman and invisible (Luke 12: 4-5).

This is not far-fetched or fanciful, but it is God’s revealed truth. Let us accept it, for only by so doing shall we be fortified for the fray and spurred on to “put on the full armour of God” (verse 11).

THE CHARACTER OF THE ENEMY

He is a real person. The names given to Satan indicate personality, and the actions attributed to him imply personality: deceiver, liar, murderer, accuser, tempter, prince, etc. Look up the following: Job 1: 6; Isaiah 14: 12; Matthew 4: 10; 6: 13; 9: 34; 10:25; 25:41; Luke 4: 12; John 8: 44 and 12: 31; 2 Corinthians 2: 11; 1 Thessalonians 2: 18 and 3: 5; and 2 Thessalonians 2: 9-11.
He occupies an exalted position. He is “the ruler of the kingdom of the air” (Ephesians 2: 2), indicating his control over evil spirits; and he is “the prince of this world” (John 12: 31; 14:30; 16: 11), showing his domination in the lives of “those who are disobedient” (Ephesians 2: 2). He has a “kingdom” (Matthew 12: 26); he is “the god of this age” (2 Corinthians 4: 4); and he counterfeits true Christianity (1 Corinthians 10: 20-21; 2 Corinthians 11: 14; 1 Timothy 4: 1 and Revelation 2: 9).
He is very powerful. His power is subtle (2 Corinthians 11: 14); sinister (Colossians 1: 13); supernatural (2 Thessalonians 2:9) and destructive (Hebrews 2: 14) - and compare Acts 26:18.

THE SECRET OF VICTORY

We must recognise our Standing in Christ. Study verse 10, and notice that we are only strong “in the Lord”. There is no strength or ability to wage this warfare apart from the strength which is ours in Him. We are to stand and withstand, not in our own strength, but in His (verses 11, 13 and 14).
We must accept our Protection from Christ. This protection, provided by Him for our use, is “the full armour of God” (verses 11 and 13), five pieces being for defensive warfare, and one only for offensive warfare. There is no protection for the back because (to change the figure) – Luke 9: 62! Our part is to “put on” these pieces – verse 11.

The belt of truth (14). As the belt encompassed the waist of the soldier, so truth must encompass our whole life (Psalm 51: 6; John 8: 32; 3 John 4). There must be no hypocrisy, unreality, insincerity or compromise.
The breastplate of righteousness (14). This covers very vital organs. We must stand firm in Christ who is our righteousness, and we must be righteous in our life (i.e. right).
The shoes of preparation (15). When tempted and tried, we are sustained by the experience of Philippians 4: 7 and Isaiah 26: 3.
The shield of faith (16). Just as a shield can protect each part of the body, so faith must operate in respect to each part of our life.
The helmet of salvation (17). An unprotected mind is a ready prey to Satan’s deceptions, delusions and defilements.
The sword of the Spirit (17). Compare Matthew 4: 4, 7 and 10 - “It is written…” – and Hebrews 4: 12.

We must maintain our Communion with Christ (verse 18). This is essential for victory - “All prayer, at all seasons, with all perseverance

PRAYING ALWAYS WITH ALL PRAYER

(Ephesians 6: 18-2

Paul was a man of prayer. Prayer was the secret of his life, of his amazing influence, of his suffering and endurance, of his burning passion for the souls of men, and consequently he is the one man, apart from the Lord Jesus Himself, who is most qualified to instruct us in the holy art of praying. In the verses before us there are seven vital truths about prayer.

Prayer is the Great Essential.

Paul speaks of the armour we are to put on, and then he goes straight on without a break – “Praying at all times…” It is tremendously important for a soldier to have on the right armour and to be equipped with a sword, but what is equally important is that the soldier should keep in constant communication with his Commander-in-chief (Hebrews 2: 10). The Christian, while he is on the field of battle, is in direct touch with the throne of God, and the prayer-line of communication with our risen Lord must never be broken. Prayer is the great essential: it is certainly not optional; it is fundamental.

We must Pray at All Times.

Paul not only exhorts us to pray, but to pray “on all occasions”, and this reminds us of 1 Thessalonians 5: 17, which means that we are to seek to live in the very atmosphere and attitude of prayer. It is most important that we should have set times for prayer – like Daniel who prayed three times a day (Daniel 6: 10); like David who prayed three times a day (Psalm 55: 17), and later told us that he prayed seven times a day (Psalm 119: 164); and like the Saviour who constantly withdrew into the place of prayer (Luke 6: 12). Then, we may pray at special times: for instance, when in trouble (Psalm 55: 16); when needing guidance (James 1: 5); when tempted (Psalm 69: 1); when persecuted (Psalm 7: 1); when disturbing letters arrive (Isaiah 37: 14); when sickness threatens (James 5: 14); and whenever there is a need of any kind (Philippians 4: 6).

We Must Employ All Kinds of Prayer.

“All kinds of prayers and requests” suggests that prayer may consist of Adoration, Praise, Thanksgiving, Petition, Supplication or Intercession. But consider the following three “kinds” of prayer - individual prayer (Matthew 6: 6); the prayer of agreement (Matthew 18: 19); and corporate prayer (Acts 12: 5).

We Must Keep on Praying.

We are always to keep on praying and to remain alert (verse 18) – look up Luke 18: 1, and compare Luke 11: 5-8. We need persistence - look up 1 Kings 18: 43. The words “be alert” indicate that there are perils in prayer, and so there are! There is the peril of: (l) Distraction. How often other things crowd in and prevent us from praying! (2) Disinclination. This may be due to tiredness or to preoccupation with worldly things; (3) Discouragement. Perhaps we have prayed once, or even twice, and then we have become impatient because the answer has not come! (4) Despair. The situation sometimes seems so impossible – even for God! – so instead of trusting Him we are overwhelmed with a sense of frustration and even of futility of prayer; (5) Defeat. Yes, overwhelming defeat! – look up Judges 16: 20.

We Must Pray for All Saints.

It is, of course, impossible to pray individually for all saints, and yet in a general sense, and certainly in a systematic sense, we may do so. We may pray, for example, regularly and systematically for: (1) God’s suffering saints; (2) God’s sinning saints. Do you ever pray for these? – for Christians who are tempted and overcome by the world, the flesh and the Devil – backsliders who have been tripped up by the wiles of the Enemy? (3) God’s shut-in saints. So many who love the Lord are laid on one side by sickness, and such sickness has been permitted for the furtherance of the gospel (Philippians 1: 12). These afflicted ones need prayer that they may receive grace to testify to the power and sufficiency of Christ. Pray for the new converts (Acts 9: 17); for workers to be thrust forth (Matthew 9:38); for the printing of Christian literature (Psalm 43: 3); for open doors for the gospel (1 Corinthians 16: 9); for Satan’s power to be broken (Luke 13: 12-16)…

We Must Pray for Workers in the Forefront of the Battle.

Verses 19 and 20 teach us that those who are in prominent positions in Christian service are in special need of the prayers of God’s people – look up Acts 4:29. How should we pray for preachers, evangelists, teachers and leaders in God’s harvest field? That they may have utterance, boldness and grace to preach the gospel.

All Our Praying to be Effective Must Be “In the Spirit”.

Here is the secret of it all – “in the Spirit” (verse 18) – compare Romans 8: 26-27.

It is gloriously true that, as William Cowper wrote, “Satan trembles when he sees the weakest saint upon his knees”; and Alfred Lord Tennyson was right when he wrote:

“More things are wrought by prayer

Than this world dreams of, wherefore, let thy voice

Rise like a fountain before me night and day.

For what are men better than sheep and goats

That nourish a blind life within the brain,

If, knowing God, they lift not hands of prayer,

Both for themselves and those who call them friend?…

CONVICTION

(John 16: 1-11)

The salvation of a soul is always preceded and accompanied by the convicting work of the Holy Spirit. No one is ever truly saved without experiencing this conviction of which Jesus spoke in John 16:7-11. People often think that they can be saved “at will”; that is, just when they decide they would like to be saved, and very often those who preach the gospel fail to realise how imperative it is to secure the convicting work of the Holy Spirit if ever spiritual results are to be produced. In the salvation of a soul it is always God who takes the initiative – look up Genesis 3:9 and John 15:16. If God did not seek man, man would never seek after God – look up Romans 3:11, and compare John 5:6 and 6:44. This raises the question: How does the Father draw men and women to Christ? The answer is – by the Holy Spirit, and the first great work that the Holy Spirit accomplishes is the work of conviction; this means, in simple terms, that He convinces us of our desperate need of a Saviour – look up Genesis 6:3 and Hebrews 3:7-8. His “striving” and His “speaking” are all with a view to His great work of conviction.

OF WHAT DOES THE HOLY SPIRIT CONVICT THE SINNER?

He convicts the sinner of SIN. Not simply “of sins”, the fruit, but “of sin”, the root, and of the paramount sin of unbelief – the sin of rejecting Christ (John 16:9). Our consciences, if they are not too seared (1 Timothy 4:2), will convict us of sins, such as theft, untruthfulness or jealousy, but it is only when the Holy Spirit opens our eyes that we see the enormity of the sin of rejecting the Saviour whom God has provided. The greatest sin anyone can commit, and the one sin by which we are condemned, is the sin of rejecting Christ – look up John 3:18 and 3:36.
He convicts the sinner of RIGHTEOUSNESS. He convicts of a righteousness which is required (Isaiah 64:6); of a righteousness which is provided by God and offered to man in the Person of His Son (2 Corinthians 5:21), and which is receivable by faith (Romans 3:21-22). Apart from the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, man has no true conception of his own unrighteousness or of God’s righteousness (John 16:10).
He convicts the sinner of JUDGMENT. The Holy Spirit convinces man that Satan, and all who belong to him, are already doomed – see verse 11, and look up Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 12:7-9 and 20:10.

What great need there is today for this three-fold convicting work of the Holy Spirit! There is no substitute for it. Organisation, the personality of the preacher, etc., all fail. Only the Holy Spirit can convince men of their desperate need of the Saviour.

HOW DOES THE HOLY SPIRIT BRING THIS CONVICTION?

He does His work of conviction through the preaching of the Gospel. The Word of God, the gospel, the “sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17), is the powerful instrument which He uses (Hebrews 4:12) to effect the salvation of all who believe (Romans 1:16). We shall only see conviction resulting from our preaching if we are faithfully preaching “the gospel” (1 Corinthians 15:1-4), and “the whole will of God” (Acts 20:27). When Peter preached the gospel on the Day of Pentecost his hearers were convicted of sin (Acts 2:23), of righteousness (Acts 2:24 and 33), and of judgment (Acts 2:19-20) – as verse 37 tells us.
He does His work of conviction through the personal witnessing of Christians. He does it not only by public preaching, but by personal witnessing, as was the case when Philip preached Christ (Acts 8:26-39); when Paul reasoned with Felix (Acts 24:24-25), and when Paul testified before Agrippa (Acts 26:26-29).
He does His work of conviction by special providences and interventions. Saul was brought under conviction by a sudden revelation of the Lord Himself as he travelled down the Damascus road (Acts 9:1-6); the people of Joppa were brought under conviction by the death and miraculous resurrection of Dorcas (Acts 9:36-42 – and note verse 42); the jailer was brought under conviction, not only by the testimony of Paul and Silas (Acts 16:25), but by the earthquake which God sent (Acts 16:26 – note verse 30).
He does His work of conviction in answer to the prayers of God’s people. Here is scope, not only for the preacher, but for the Christians who are present in a gospel meeting, to pray with the preacher for the convicting work of the Holy Spirit to accompany the message as it goes forth – look up Matthew 18:19.
He does His work of conviction through cleansed, yielded and Spirit-filled lives. Stephen was stoned to death (Acts 7:54-60), and Saul witnessed his death (verse 58); he heard his testimony and he saw his Christ-like spirit (verse 59). Was it not at this point that Saul first became convicted?

In closing, note John 16:7-8: “I will send him to you. When he comes (to you), he will convict…” The measure in which He can convict is the measure in which He has come “to you.”

REPENTANCE

(Luke 15: 3-24)

Anyone who has any doubts as to the importance of the doctrine of repentance needs only to read the solemn words of our Lord Jesus Christ recorded in Luke 13:3. The Bible is full of this subject, and the word is used over one hundred times – fifty-eight times in the New Testament alone. Yet, someone has rightly said of repentance that it is “the missing note in modern evangelism.” It was the key-note of New Testament preaching: John the Baptist began his ministry with a call to repentance (Matthew 3:2); our Lord’s first word was “Repent…” (Matthew 4:17); those whom He commissioned were commanded to preach repentance (Mark 6:12 and Luke 24:47); there is joy in Heaven over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10); Peter preached repentance (Acts 2:37-38); Paul preached repentance (Acts 17:30-31); and repentance leading to faith is everywhere laid down in the Bible as the condition of salvation (Acts 20:21).

WHAT REPENTANCE IS NOT

Conviction of sin is not repentance. Repentance includes conviction, but a sinner can be deeply convicted and still not repent. Felix is an illustration of this – Acts 24:24-25.
Sorrow for sin is not repentance. Repentance includes sorrow and remorse, but it is more than this, for it is possible to be sorry for sin and yet not to repent of sin – look up 2 Corinthians 7:9, and notice that the sorrowing is “to repentance”.
Hatred of sin is not repentance. Repentance includes this, but it is possible to loathe sin and yet not to turn from it. Is it not true in a sense that every sinner hates sin? Nobody can repent without hating sin, but hating sin alone is not repentance.
Promising to be better is not repentance. Many people make a life-long habit of doing this. The Prodigal determined that he would return (Luke 15:18), but repentance was not indicated by his determination merely. “The way to Hell is paved with good intentions.”
Turning from one sin is not repentance. It is not giving up sins, the fruit; it has to do with sin, the root.

WHAT REPENTANCE IS

Repentance is a change of mind – an intellectual experience; it is a change of feeling -–an emotional experience; it is a change of purpose – a volitional experience; and it is a change of conduct – a moral experience. Repentance is not one of these, but all of them together.

Repentance is a change of MIND. The Greek word “metonia” means “after-thought”. The change of mind involved in true repentance is so radical that the sinner takes up an entirely new attitude towards God, towards the Lord Jesus Christ, towards sin and towards himself – look up Matthew 21:28-29 for our Lord’s illustration of this aspect of repentance.
Repentance is a change of FEELING. After his conversion, Saul of Tarsus was overwhelmed with a sense of remorse when he thought of the way he had treated the Lord Jesus – compare Psalm 38:18. The Publican expressed deep emotion when in penitence and confession he “beat his breast” (Luke 18:13); and so did the Prodigal when he returned and said: “Father, I am no longer worthy…” (Luke 15:21).
Repentance is a change of PURPOSE. The will is involved. The Prodigal said, “I will set out…” (Luke 15:18) – “…so he got up” (Luke 15:20). See what Jesus said to the man in John 5:6, and compare Psalm 119:59; Isaiah 55:7 and Ezekiel 18:30.
Repentance is a change of CONDUCT. This is illustrated in the conversion of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10); Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:1-6), and the jailer (Acts 16:30-34).

Repentance is to leave

The sins I loved before;

And show that I in earnest grieve

By doing so no more.

HOW REPENTANCE IS BROUGHT ABOUT

Repentance is a Divine gift. Look up Acts 5:30-31; 11:18 and 2 Timothy 2:25.
The gift of repentance is bestowed through the preaching of the Gospel – look up Matthew 12:41; Acts 2:38-41 and 19:8, 10 and 19, and compare 1 Thessalonians 1:5-10.
The goodness of God leads to repentance. Romans 2:4 tells us this. When we consider the love of God, especially in the gift of His Son (John 3:16), who went to the cross for us (1 Peter 2:24), then we are brought to repentance.
The sorrows of life bring people to repentance. Trials and bereavements are all instruments in the hands of God for bringing men and women to repentance – look up Psalm 78:34, and compare Genesis 42:21; Exodus 9:27; Job 42:5-6; Psalm 119:67 and Revelation 3:19.
The emptiness of life makes some repent. This was surely so in the case of the Prodigal Son – see Luke 15:17.

WHEN IS THE TIME TO REPENT?

NOW - Acts 17:30-31. Look up what is one of the best verses in the Bible – 2 Peter 3:9 –

“The Lord is…patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish,

but everyone to come to repentance.

SAVING FAITH

(Mark 5: 25-34)

The human race is divided into two classes of people – believers and unbelievers. God’s people are believers; they are characterised by faith and they live by faith (Romans 1:17); faith is the operative principle of the new life, the Christian life. There are many aspects of faith, as Hebrews 11 so illustrates, but in this study we shall confine ourselves to what is called saving faith – the faith which brings us into the experience of God’s salvation.

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED? (Acts 16:30)

This is the question of questions, and it asks: What is the human responsibility in the matter of salvation? At infinite cost, salvation has been provided for every sinner (1 John 2:2). God’s only-begotten Son came down from Heaven and procured salvation by dying for us upon the cross (Isaiah 53:5-6; John 1:29; 2 Corinthians 5:21). God the Father accepted His finished work and raised Him up from the dead and exalted Him to His right hand in Heaven (Acts 2:32-33). Salvation is now offered to all men (Isaiah 45:22). On what terms? Acts 16:31 gives us the answer. “Salvation in all its limitless magnitude is secured, so far as human responsibility is concerned, by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour." In the New Testament there are at least 150 different passages which condition salvation on believing and faith, (the one word here is the exact synonym of the other): e.g. John 3:16; Acts 13:38-39; Romans 1:16; 3:26; 4:5; 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8; 1 John 5:1.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BELIEVE ON THE LORD JESUS CHRIST?

It means to place my whole confidence and trust in Him as my own personal Saviour.

FAITH IN CHRIST AS PERSONAL SAVIOUR INVOLVES THREE STEPS:-

The first step is to HEAR. Look up Romans 10:17. Before I can believe the gospel I must hear it. Before I can believe that Christ is able and willing to save me, I must hear that He is able and willing to do so – look up John 5:24.
The second step is to BELIEVE. Having heard who He is and what He is able to do for me, I believe what I hear – I assent. I believe about Him – that He died for me (Isaiah 53:5); that He is able to save me (Hebrews 7:25); and that He wants to save me (John 5:40). Notice that this intellectual assent is not saving faith, though it is an essential step towards saving faith.
The third step is to TRUST. I hear…I believe…but now I must trust! That is, I place confidence in Him to do for me what I have heard and believe He can do. I commit myself to Him and trust Him to save me. Trusting excludes all effort and relies wholly upon the One being trusted.

NOW LOOK UP THREE INCIDENTS WHICH ILLUSTRATE SAVING FAITH:-

Mark 5:25-34. Notice that the Woman heard (verse 27), and she came because she believed what she had heard (verse 28), and she touched (trusted) Him (verses 27 and 29).
Acts 8:29-37. Notice that the Eunuch heard about Christ (verses 30-35), he believed on Him (verse 36), and he trusted Him as his own Saviour (verse 37).
Acts 16:30-31. Notice that the Jailer took these three steps. He must have heard, in order to ask – verse 30; then he believed, and his immediate confession by baptism and his changed life proved that he trusted Christ to save him.

NOW CONSIDER TWO SIMPLE ILLUSTRATIONS OF SAVING FAITH.

Faith in the BANK. Suppose you are left a fortune and you do not know where to place it for safety. Then a friend tells you about the “Absolutely Safe Bank”. You hear what he says, you believe his testimony, and you commit your fortune to the Bank.
Faith in the DOCTOR. Suppose you suddenly collapse with appendicitis. Your friend tells you of a good surgeon who operated on her for appendicitis, relieved her of pain and made her perfectly well. You hear what your friend says, you believe her testimony, and you commit yourself to the surgeon and trust him completely to bring you through the oper

CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING PROMISES OF CHRIST, ALL OF WHICH SHOW, UNDER DIFFERENT FIGURES, WHAT IT MEANS TO BELIEVE ON HIM, AND NOTICE THAT IN EACH CASE THE SAME THREE STEPS – HEARING, BELIEVING AND TRUSTING – ARE INVOLVED.

To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ is to ACCEPT Him as God’s Gift. Look up John 3:16; 1:12 (where to “believe” = to “receive”), and compare Acts 16:14 and Revelation 3:20.
To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ is to COME TO HIM. Look up Matthew 11:28, and compare John 5:40 and 6:37.
To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ is to ENTER into the fold by Him. Look up John 10:9 and compare Luke 13:24-27.
To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ is to come to Him and DRINK. Look up John 4:13-14 and 7:37.
To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ is to CALL upon Him for salvation. Look up Romans 10:13. Then see how the Thief did it (Luke 23:42-43); how Peter did it (Matthew 14:30-31); how the Publican did it (Luke 18:13-14); how the Leper did it (Luke 5:12-13), and how the Gentile Woman did it (Matthew 15:22 and 28). Have you done it?

Thus, to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ is to rely only upon Him for salvation. Do you believe like that? Are you saved?

REGENERATION

(John 3: 1-16)

By regeneration, or the new birth, we mean that act of the Holy Spirit whereby He communicates the divine life to the sinner, thus making him a child of God. The new birth is the key doctrine to every other truth revealed in the Word of God. To understand this doctrine is to open the door to an understanding of every other Bible doctrine. In the professing Church today, in every denomination, there are two classes of members – those who have been born again and who are therefore members of the true Church, and those who have never been born again.

WHAT THE NEW BIRTH IS NOT

It is not a natural birth (John 3:4 and 6), though it is characteristically the same as a natural birth. We did not see the light of day until we were born; before we can begin to live spiritually we must be born again.
It is not a psychological experience. Modern Theology has taught that “the new birth is a God complex…” The Bible does not teach this.
It is not being religious. Nicodemus was very religious, but he was not born again (verse 10). He was the Master in Israel, yet he was blind concerning his need of, and the nature of, the second birth.
It is not head knowledge (verses 2 and 10). Nicodemus had much intellectual belief; he began his conversation with the Lord Jesus by saying, “We know…” (verse 2); but knowledge is no substitute for the new birth. Even the demons believe (James 2:19)!
It is not mere external reformation. Who could be more correct outwardly than Nicodemus? – yet he was not born again – look up 2 Timothy 3:5.
It is not self-effort or good works. Look up Ephesians 2:8-10. No amount of good works will produce the new birth. We are only to work out our salvation after God has worked it in (Philippians 2:12-13).
It is not rites and ceremonies, such as baptism, confirmation or church membership. Look up Titus 3:5. The word “water” in John 3:5 does not refer to the ordinance of baptism or to “baptismal regeneration”; baptism and church membership come after we have been born again – not before, or as a means of producing the new birth – look up Acts 2:37-41. Titus 3:5 explains the significance of “water”.

WHAT THE NEW BIRTH IS

It is a new birth, a second birth, a birth from above. Note “again” in verses 3 and 7 – “from above” (margin).
It is being made alive from the dead; passing from death to life. By nature man is spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1), but by the miracle of the new birth he is raised to newness of life (Romans 6:4).
It is being made a partaker of the divine nature. The new birth is the commencement of the life of God within the human personality – look up 2 Peter 1:4. God does not alter or patch up the old nature; He gives us an entirely new one!
It is the human side of regeneration. Look up John 1:11-13, and note the last four words in verse 13.
It is a very great change. Look up 2 Corinthians 5:17, and compare Romans 6:4 and Galatians 6:15.

WHY THE NEW BIRTH IS NECESSARY

Because our Lord said so. Look up John 3:3 – how imperative this word is!
Because we all possess a fallen nature. However well educated and cultured we may be, Ephesians 2:2-3 describes our condition in God’s sight.
Because by nature we are spiritually dead. Look up John 5:40; Ephesians 2:1 and 1 John 5:12.
Because in our fallen state we cannot please God. God is holy and we are sinful, and we can never have fellowship with Him as we are – look up John 3:6, and compare Romans 8:8.
Because we can never enter the Kingdom of God until we possess a nature capable of enjoying the things of that kingdom. The stars are astronomically understood; a piano concerto is musically understood; flowers are botanically understood – and Heaven and spiritual things are spiritually understood -–therefore John 3:3!

HOW AND WHEN THE NEW BIRTH IS EXPERIENCED

How does the new birth take place? It is accomplished:-

By the Holy Spirit. Look again at John 3:5-6 and Titus 3:5, and notice the words “of God” in John 1:13. Thus, we see that the new birth is not the work of man; it is the operation of God the Holy Spirit.
Through the Word of God. The instrument the Holy Spirit uses is the Word of God – look up 1 Corinthians 4:15; James 1:18 and 1 Peter 1:23. The Holy Spirit sows the seed of the Word in the human heart, and He thereby imparts the new life.
In response to Faith. Study John 1:11-13 and 3:14-15, and compare Numbers 21:1-9. Also, look up Galatians 3:26. Have you believed? Have you received the Lord Jesus Christ and are you looking to Him alone for salvation?

JUSTIFICATION

(Luke 18: 9-14; Romans 5: 1-11)

The question asked in Job 25:4 is still being asked today, and the glorious message of the gospel is that God has provided a perfect and an entirely satisfactory way of justifying the ungodly (Romans 3:26; 4:5).

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF JUSTIFICATION?

Look up Acts 13:38-39, and notice that through believing we receive “forgiveness of sins” (verse 38), and we are “justified” (verse 39). Justification is more than forgiveness; it is to be cleared of all blame and to be free from every charge. In an earthly court, a judge cannot both forgive a man and justify him at the same time, for if he forgives him then the man must be guilty and therefore he cannot be justified; on the other hand, if he justifies him, he does not need forgiveness. God undertakes both to forgive the sin and to justify the sinner; that is, to forgive the guilty and condemned sinner and to place him in a new position where there is no charge against him at all (Romans 8:1).

HOW ARE WE JUSTIFIED?

The Word of God makes it clear that no one is justified by his own effort or works – look up Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16 and 3:11. This was the fatal error made by the Pharisee in our Lord’s parable – Luke 18:11-12. No works of ours, no good resolutions or reformation can justify us or contribute one little bit to our justification. It is as though a murderer, feeling sorry for his crime, would do all the good deeds possible and would imagine that by thus doing he would be justified in the eyes of the law and saved from the executioner. All the good deeds in the world could do nothing to justify him. Likewise, all the good deeds of a sinner can do nothing towards his justification. In the New Testament, justification is presented to us in seven aspects.

We are justified by GOD: the AUTHOR of Justification. Look up Romans 3:26; 4:5 and 8:33, where we are told that God is the giver of justification.
We are justified by GRACE; the PRINCIPLE of Justification. This means that we are justified without any merit on our part – look up Titus 3:7 and Romans 3:24. The word “freely” denotes that there is nothing in us to deserve it, and no means whereby we can earn it.
We are justified by BLOOD: the GROUND of Justification. A holy God must have a righteous basis on which to justify ungodly sinners, and this is found in the blood of the cross. Man, as a condemned sinner, can only atone for his sin by paying the death penalty (Romans 6:23). As “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23), God’s law demands that all must die. God so loves us, however, that through the death of His Son, who took our place upon the cross, all the righteous demands of the law against the sinner have been fully met, and all the claims of God’s holiness have been satisfied.
We are justified by FAITH: the CONDITION of Justification. The one human condition for being justified is believing on the Lord Jesus Christ – look up Romans 3:22-28, and compare Romans 5:1; 4:5 and Galatians 2:16.
We are justified by RESURRECTION: the GUARANTEE of Justification. In Romans 4:25 we are told that the resurrection of the Lord Jesus was the visible proof that God was satisfied with His finished work, that justification is available for all men, and that all believers are justified.
We are justified by WORKS: the EVIDENCE of Justification. If we compare Romans 3:20 and James 2:24, we are faced with what appears to be a contradiction, but there is no contradiction – see what James 2:20 says. Works are the evidence of faith. Wherever there is real faith it will be followed by works – see James 2:18.
We are justified by EXPERIENCE: the RESULTS of Justification. In other words, certain wonderful things take place as the result of our justification. What are these?

WHAT ARE THE RESULTS OF JUSTIFICATION?

There are seven of them enumerated in Romans 5:1-11. The chapter begins, “Therefore since we have been justified (having been counted righteous)” …what?

“We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (verse 1). “We were God’s enemies” (verse 10), but at Calvary our Lord Jesus Christ reconciled us to God (Romans 5:10), and made peace (Colossians 1:20).
“We have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand” (verse 2). This means that being justified we have an entrance, or a welcome, into the presence of God -–compare John 10:9 and Hebrews 10:19.
“And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God” (verse 2). The word “hope” does not imply uncertainty; it refers to the assurance which we have that God will consummate His purpose in and for all whom He justifies. It means – Colossians 3:4 and Titus 3:7!
“We rejoice in our sufferings” (verse 3). Four reasons are given in verses 4 and 5. This means that when trials and testings come we are able to say – 2 Corinthians 4:17! – look up Acts 14:22; 2 Corinthians 4:8-10; 6:4-10 and 1 Thessalonians 3:3.
“God has poured out his love into our hearts” (verse 5). This is His love in four dimensions – Ephesians 3:17-18; and with His love in our hearts, we love each other (1 John 3:14).
“The Holy Spirit…whom he has given us” (verse 5). The moment God justifies us we become indwelt by the Holy Spirit – compare John 14:16-17; Romans 8:9 and 1 Corinthians 6:19.
“We also rejoice in God” (verse 11). Literally, “we exult in God.” How wonderful this is! We, who were condemned, lost sinners, now by His grace, being justified, rejoice in Him!

CHAPTER 3 ADOPTION

(Romans 8: 1-17)

In Exodus 2:10 (compare Hebrews 11:24), Esther 2:7, and in Luke 15:11-24, we have three illustrations of adoption, and these will help us to answer the question: What does Adoption mean? It means – the placing of a son. When we are born again we become children in God’s family (John 1:12-13), and God becomes our loving Heavenly Father (John 6:32). But, we not only become children of God; we become sons of God and legally recognised heirs – look up Romans 8:14-17. Thus, by adoption, God gives us a new status, and this new status, or position, at once brings us into the place of new Privilege and of new Responsibility.

THE PRIVILEGES OF THE ADOPTED

According to Ephesians 1:4-5, we, as believers, were adopted in the purpose of God “before the creation of the world.” What are the privileges and blessings which are ours as the result of our adoption?

We have received His SPIRIT. Look up Romans 8:15 and Galatians 4:6. Every son of God has already received the Holy Spirit of adoption whereby he comes to God and calls Him “Father”.
We have been given His NAME. When a child is adopted by earthly parents, and is legally registered as their son, he usually takes the name of the parents. God has brought us into His family and has given us the status of sons and the privilege of bearing His name – look up Ephesians 3:14-15. And what is the Name of names which we bear? – compare Acts 11:26; 26:28; and 1 Peter 4:16.
We are being conformed to His IMAGE. Look up Romans 8:29, and notice that when we become sons of God, the Holy Spirit, who enters our heart, begins to conform us, or change us, into the likeness of the Lord Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:18). God’s plan is that we should be like Him, and when we see Him we shall be like Him (1 John 3:2).
We must expect His CHASTENING. Make no mistake about it – this is a blessing, a privilege to be enjoyed by those who are the sons of God! Study Hebrews 12:6-11 carefully. When God’s chastening hand is upon us, we should rejoice, because – Philippians 1:6.
We may experience His COMFORT. Look up 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 and Isaiah 66:13. Notice the wonderful picture our Lord gives us in Matthew 23:37. This changes the metaphor, but it emphasises the same truth, namely, that the Lord protects and comforts us just as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings.
We should enjoy His LIBERTY. In Romans 8:19-23, Paul speaks of the liberty from sin, and all that has resulted from sin, which will one day be experienced by the whole creation, and he likens this to the liberty which every son of God may enjoy. Servants do not have the liberty which sons have – and we are sons! – compare John 15:13-15.
We are going to share His GLORY. Look up Romans 8:17. We shall sit with Him on His throne and enjoy Him through all eternity!

These, then, are some of the Privileges of the Adopted. But every privilege carries with it a responsibility, as Peter says – 2 Peter 3:11.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ADOPTED

Let us place the Privileges and the Responsibilities side by side:-

We have received His Spirit: let us be careful not to grieve Him. Look up Ephesians 4:30, and read verses 17 to 32 and notice some of the things which grieve Him. There is no greater incentive to holy living than the constant reminder that the Holy Spirit dwells within.
We have been given His Name: let us see that we bring no dishonour upon Him. Look up Acts 9:15 and 2 Timothy 2:19, and in contrast, notice Acts 5:41. Nothing hinders the work of God more than when Christians bring dishonour upon His name.
We are being conformed to His image: let us be submissive to the hands of the Potter. Look up Jeremiah 18:1-6 and Isaiah 64:8. Sometimes His dealings with us may be painful, and often they will be perplexing – but always they are for our good (Romans 8:28).
We must expect His chastening: let us be exercised by it. Look up Hebrews 12:11, and 1 Corinthians 11:27-32. In every time of testing we should ask, “What new lesson is the Lord seeking to teach me?”
We may experience His comfort: let us do so, and let us share it with others. Look up 2 Corinthians 1:4. The margin reads “encourages” – compare Hebrews 10:25 (margin). How wonderful it is that we can experience His comfort! – but let us be careful that we do not become selfish and self-centred in our enjoyment of his blessings.
We should enjoy His liberty: let us be victorious over every form of carnal or legal bondage. Look up John 8:36, and compare Romans 8:2. Lazarus was raised from the dead, but he had “his hands and feet wrapped around with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face” (John 11:44) – work, walk and witness!
We are going to share His glory: let us be humbled by this rapturous prospect. Look up Revelation 1:17. Now be sure to read 1 John 3:1-2!

INDWELLING

(John 14: 16-18 and 26; 15: 26; 16: 7-11 and 13 - 14)

It may be helpful to compare the following relationships which God is pleased to sustain towards His children:-

He is ABOVE us – Deuteronomy 4:39; Ephesians 1:20-21.
He is BENEATH us – Deuteronomy 33:27.
He is BEFORE us – Exodus 13:21-22; John 10:4.
He is BEHIND us – Exodus 14:19.
He is AROUND us – Psalm 34:7; 125:2.
He is WITH us – Isaiah 41:10; Hebrews 13:5-6.
He is WITHIN us – Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27.

Of all the associations short of Glory itself, the last (above) is the greatest – that the Lord Himself should come and live within the human personality. In Ezekiel 36:27, we find the fact of His indwelling anticipated, but it was our Lord Himself who spoke fully about this – in John 14:16-18 and 26; 15:26; 16:7-11 and 13-14. Notice the following important truths in John 14:16-18:

The Holy Spirit is a Person

Notice the four persons referred to in John 14:16: “I”… “He”… “You”… “He”. Read chapters 14, 15 and 16 and note all the pronouns used in reference to the Holy Spirit. Also notice, in the five references given above, the actions which are ascribed to Him which could only be ascribed to a person.

The Holy Spirit is a Divine Person

In John 14:16, the three Persons of the Godhead are mentioned – “I”… “Father”… “Comforter”. He is God, one with the Father and the Son.

The Holy Spirit Indwells Every Believer

Note the last two words in John 14:17. He indwells every Christian; there is no such thing as a believer who is not indwelt by the Holy Spirit – look up John 7:37-39; Acts 2:38-39; Romans 5:5 and 8:9; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Galatians 3:2 and 4:6.

The Holy Spirit Abides in Every Believer

That is, He has come in to stay – see John 14:16. In Old Testament times He came – and went – look up Judges 6:34 and 16:20; 1 Samuel 10:6 and 16:14 – and compare Psalm 51:11; but now He comes in to abide with us for ever.

The Holy Spirit indwells to Supply Christ’s Presence

As to His bodily presence, the Lord Jesus is in Heaven (Hebrews 9:24); but by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit He is also within every believer (John 14:17-18). This is “the mystery” – see Colossians 1:27, and compare John 14:23.

In John chapters 14,15 and 16 we learn from the lips of our Lord Himself of the seven-fold ministry which the Holy Spirit exercises in the life of every believer. In other words, He indwells us to supply a seven-fold need in our lives:-

“He will teach you all things…” (14:26)

He is the Divine Tutor within us, and He is there to teach us all He wants us to know and all we need to know concerning spiritual things. Please read 1 Corinthians 2: 9-14. The youngest and humblest believer has the Heavenly Instructor within. What a rebuke this is to our ignorance of spiritual things! – look up 1 John 2:27.

“He will remind you of everything I have said…” (14:26)

This had a special reference to the Apostles who were to write the books of the New Testament; for this important task, the Holy Spirit was to be their sufficiency. They were not to rely upon their memory but upon Him. On John 14:26 rests the credibility and ultimate Divine Authority of the New Testament writings (2 Timothy 3:16). But what of ourselves? Well, He brings the word of comfort, of guidance, of wisdom or of rebuke to us, according to our need – compare Matthew 10:18-19.

“He will testify about Me…” (15:26 – and verse 27!)

The Holy Spirit is the power within us for effective testimony – look up Acts 1:8, and notice that He always testifies to the Lord Jesus, and not to ourselves, our work, our church or our denomination; “unto me…” He is within us to convict us and to show us when we turn aside from His way.

“He will convict the world…” (16:7-11)

He alone can convince unbelievers of their need of the Saviour, and He does it through us (“to you” – Lit. – verse 8). We cannot convince them of their need and of His love for them, but the Holy Spirit can. And, He is within us to convict us and to show us when we turn aside from His way.

“He will guide you into all truth…” (16:13)

The Lord guided Israel – look up Exodus 13:21; but we have the Guide within, to go with us all the journey through – compare Romans 8:14. He indwells to guide us in the paths of truth.

“He will tell you what is yet to come…” (16:13)

This reference is to the prophetic gift which the disciples would need in order to write the New Testament. You and I have Him that we may interpret and understand those prophecies.

“He will bring glory to Me…” (16:14)

He is within us to make the Lord Jesus real and precious to us, and through us to others.

In conclusion: Because the Holy Spirit is dwelling within to exercise this seven-fold ministry, we mus

RECOGNISE His Presence within us (1 Corinthians 6:19)
RESPOND to His Presence within us (Ephesians 5:18)
RELY upon His Presence within us (2 Corinthians 3:5-6).

ASSURANCE

(1 John 5: 1-13)

The key word of this study is the word KNOW. Look up 1 John 5:13, and compare the following references in the Epistle of John where the word know occurs:- 2: 3-5,11,21,29; 3: 2,5,14,15,19,24; 4: 2,6,13; 5: 2,13,15,18-20. How clear it is that God wants us to know, to be absolutely sure that for those of us who are His children all is well for time and eternity!

If there is one word which describes the times we live in, surely that word is uncertainty. Everything around us, everything temporal, is uncertain, and consequently men’s hearts are filled with fear, anxiety and depression – look up Luke 21:26. Is uncertainty the best that God can give us? No! God wants His people to be sure. The one word which should characterise and describe the child of God, the Christian, is the word certainty. He wants us to know, to be certain, to be sure! But how can we be sure? What is the ground of our assurance? The Word of God is the ground of our confidence. God has spoken, and His Word is sure and cannot fail (Matthew 24:35; 1 Peter 1:23,25). His Word, the Bible, has been written that we may know – what?

He wants us to KNOW that the Lord Jesus is our own personal Saviour.

The first assurance God wants us to have concerns a Person, His Son the Lord Jesus Christ – turn up 2 Timothy 1:12, and notice the words: “I know whom…” i.e. “I know Him…”! This is the privilege of every child of God – to know Him personally as Saviour and Lord. How wonderful it is that when the whole world is filled with uncertainty I can know Him for myself – the One who sits upon the throne (Hebrews 8:1; 12:2)! How can I be certain that I really do know Him and that He is in my heart and life? Make quite sure that you have welcomed Him (Revelation 3:20), and having done so, take Him at His word – “I will come in!”

He wants us to KNOW that all our sins are blotted out and forgiven.

If we are Christians our sins are forgiven – not may be, but are! (1 John 2:12). It is not a presumption to believe the Word of the Lord Jesus, and He says to every Christian – Mark 2:5. When the Lord Jesus died upon the cross of Calvary He died to put away our sin (Isaiah 53:5-6; John 1:29 and 1 Peter 2:24), and when we believe that fact and receive Him into our life, we have His pardon – look up Acts 13:38-39, and compare Psalm 32:1 and 103:12! Are you sure that your sins are forgiven?

He wants us to KNOW that we have passed from death to life.

By nature we are spiritually dead (John 5:40; Romans 5:12; Ephesians 2:1); but when we become Christians we are born again (John 1:11-14); and we receive a new life, His life (John 10:10); eternal life (John 10:27-29; 1 John 5:11-12). Now look up the great word of assurance in 1 John 3:14. Do you know that you have been born again and have passed from death to life (John 5:24)? In the First Epistle of John there are five marks, or evidences, of the new birth, the new life. Look them up and see if you really have been born again:-

1 John 2:29 – i.e. Have you a desire to please God?
1 John 3:9 – i.e. Do you no longer enjoy sinning?
1 John 3:14 – i.e. Do you love other Christians?
1 John 5:1 – i.e. Do you acknowledge His sovereignty?
1 John 5:4 – i.e. Have you power to overcome?

He wants us to KNOW of His loving plan and purpose for our life.

The unbeliever just drifts through life, hoping for the best, and he has no answer or assurance when he is faced with life’s problems and perplexities. But the believer has a very wonderful assurance – look it up in Romans 8:28-30. In the intention and purpose of God, every believer is already foreknown, predestinated, called, justified and glorified! What assurance this fact gives! But in particular notice verse 28; when we become Christians we do not become immune from trial, trouble, sorrow, loss, disappointments, etc., but in and through all these experiences we know -–what? That – “In all things God works for the good of those who love him…” We cannot understand all God’s ways now, but our assurance is that all is well and that we shall understand one day (John 13:7).

He wants us to KNOW that all that is happening in the world today is moving towards the fulfilment of His will, when the Lord Jesus shall be King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

This should be our blessed assurance – look up Job 19:25-27. We know that “God is working His purpose out, as year succeeds to year”, and that in the end –

Jesus shall reign where’er the sun

Doth his successive journeys run;

His kingdom stretch from shore to shore,

Till moons shall wax and wane no more –

and that we shall see Him (Revelation 1:7), and be with Him in His victory (Revelation 3:21). How great it is to know this!

All my doubts I give to Jesus; All I am: I give to Jesus

I’ve His gracious promise heard: All my body, all my soul;

I shall never be confounded, All I have, and all I hope for,

I am trusting in that word. While eternal ages roll.

I am trusting, fully trusting,

Sweetly trusting in His word;

I am trusting, fully trusting,

Sweetly trusting in His word.

SANCTIFICATION

(1 Thessalonians 4: 1-12)

The prominence given in scripture to the doctrine of sanctification emphasises its importance, and in this study we need to begin by making two things clear. First, we must understand the meaning of the word; second, we must understand how the word is used, particularly in relation to believers.

THE TWO-FOLD MEANING OF THE WORD

The first and the root meaning of the word sanctify (and ‘holy’ and ‘saint’, for they all come from the same words in the Hebrew and the Greek), is to set apart to and for a sacred purpose. Thus, in Leviticus 21:8 we read that, because He is unique in His person and alone qualified for the whole work of redemption, Jesus sanctified Himself. In the Old Testament we read of days, places and things being sanctified – that is, set apart for a holy and a sacred purpose – look up Genesis 2:3; Exodus 29:43; 40:10-11.

But there is a further meaning in the use of the word sanctify. Because of the presence of sin, of evil, in man and in the world, the word also, when it refers to man, means not only separation TO a sacred and holy purpose, but separation FROM that which is evil, sinful and unclean. An illustration of this is found in 2 Chronicles 29:5, and in the New Testament in 2 Corinthians 7:1.

The word sanctification therefore has in it a two-fold meaning: separation FROM sin and defilement, and dedication TO God – from and to! This brings us to the place where we must consider the use of the word sanctification in relation to believers.

THE TWO-FOLD MEANING OF THE WORD IN RELATION TO BELIEVERS

The two ways in which scripture uses the word in reference to every believer is: first, that every believer is already fully and eternally sanctified because of his faith in and his union with the Lord Jesus Christ – look up Hebrews 10:10 and 14; and second, that every believer is to be sanctified – look up 1 Thessalonians 4:3 (and verses 1-12). To put it another way: every believer is already positionally sanctified, and nothing can be added to or taken away from this glorious fact. As Christians, saints, we are sanctified. But, experimentally we are not fully sanctified; this is a progressive work of God in our lives which will, or should go on changing us more and more into the likeness of Christ until we see Him and are then (and only then) “conformed” to His image (Romans 8:29); and ”to present you before his glorious presence without fault’ (Jude 24); “without stain or wrinkle, or any other blemish” (Ephesians 5:27).

HOW WE ARE PROGRESSIVELY SANCTIFIED

How is this experimental and progressive sanctification brought about? It is God’s work, but what are the means He uses? To answer these questions with different scriptural terminology, turn to Philippians 2:12 and 13: God works “in” us, but we have to work “out” what He works “in”! How?

He sanctifies us as we deliberately cleanse ourselves from sinful and doubtful things. The ground of all cleansing is the blood of Christ – look up 1 John 1:7; but in the matter of practical and experimental cleansing (or sanctification) we are called upon to act – as illustrated in 2 Chronicles 29:5,12,15-17; 2 Corinthians 6:14,15,17 and 7:1; Colossians 3:5-10 and 2 Timothy 2:19-22.

He sanctifies us as we unreservedly yield ourselves to Him. Compare Romans 12:1 and Romans 6:13 – our “bodies” are made up of many “members” – see 1 Corinthians 12:12.

He sanctifies us as we cultivate a life of communion with God in prayer. Look up Luke 11:1; Philippians 4:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and 2 Peter 3:18.

He sanctifies us as we live in daily obedience to His Word and to His Spirit. Compare John 15:3; 17:17; Ephesians 5:18; Colossians 3:16; 1 Peter 1:22; 2 Corinthians 3:18.

He sanctifies us as we keep short accounts with God. That is, as we confess all sin immediately we are conscious of having committed it – look up Proverbs 28:13 and 1 John 1:9.

He sanctifies us as we trust Him in life’s disciplines. Look up Hebrews 12:10, and compare Job 23:10; James 1:2-4 and 1 Peter 1:7 – and Romans 8:28-29.

He sanctifies us as we live in the light of His coming. Look up James 5:7-9; 2 Peter 3:11-14; 1 John 2:28 and 3:1-3.

So – believer:

You are already sanctified positionally due to your union with the Lord Jesus as your Saviour – Hebrews 10:10 and 14.
You are to be sanctified experimentally and progressively, and this gracious transformation will take place as you give heed to the “means” mentioned in (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6) and (7) above! Now read 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24.

Jesus, Master, whose I am,

Purchased Thine alone to be

By Thy blood, O spotless Lamb,

Shed so willingly for me;

Let my heart be all Thine own,

Let me live to Thee alon

GLORIFICATION

(Romans 8: 28-39)

In Romans 8:29-30 we read of the unfolding of God’s purpose, or intention, for every one of His children in the words “foreknew”, “predestined”, “called”, “justified” and “glorified”. In the purpose of God (2 Timothy 1:9), all the redeemed are already foreknown, predestinated, called, justified and glorified. Here is the guarantee of our eternal security – of the fact that if we are now truly the Lord’s then our certain and ultimate experience will be one of glorification. The following references also bear directly upon the biblical doctrine of glorification – Psalms 73:24; 84:11; 1 Corinthians 15:43; Colossians 3:4; Hebrews 2:10 and 1 Peter 5:10. What is meant by all these references to our glorification? Of what does the future glory and blessings of the saved consist?

The Glory and Blessings of Being Forever with the Lord.

The chief attraction of future glory will be that we shall be with Him, our beloved Lord and Saviour – look up John 14:3 and 1 Thessalonians 4:17. Now the Lord is with us (Isaiah 43:2; Psalm 23:4; Hebrews 13:5-6), but then we shall be with Him! The unbeliever cannot enter into this at all, and only those who want Him with them now will desire to be with Him in His glory.

The Glory and Blessings of Being Conformed to the Lord’s Likeness.

We shall not only be with Him, but we shall be like Him – look up 1 John 3:2. God’s programme for every believer is ultimate conformity to the image of His Son – Romans 8:29; thus the psalmist says – Psalm 17:15. Every believer will have a body like His body – 1 Corinthians 15:20 and 43 – also look up Philippians 3:21, and compare Ephesians 5:27. We shall not be angels or disembodied spirits, but we shall live in new, glorified bodies, and we shall be like Him!

The Glory and Blessings of Living in Perfect Surroundings.

Our first parents lived in a perfect environment in the Garden of Eden, but through the “first man”, Adam, sin entered (Romans 5:12), and thus also the curse – and Paradise was lost. Then, in the fulness of time (Galatians 4:4), “a second Adam to the fight and to the rescue came”, and through His work upon the cross, and by virtue of all that He is in His glorious Person, Paradise has been regained and will be the eternal dwelling place of all believers. Glory for the believer will mean living in a world of perfect order and complete harmony – Matthew 6:10 – and read Revelation chapters 21 and 22 for a prophetic preview of the glories of the Heaven.

The Glory and Blessings of Freedom from Earth’s Limitations.

While we are in the body we groan to be freed from it and to enjoy the blessings of the “unlimited expanses of eternity”. Down here sin limits us; we are freed from its guilt and penalty, but we possess a fallen nature and we live in a fallen body which is subject to sin’s power and Satan’s attacks. Down here our bodies give us a great deal of trouble, and we experience weakness, sickness, pain and the infirmities of age, and ultimately death itself - Romans 8:23 tells us this. Meditate upon the things which will be missing in Heaven, such as tears, death, sorrow, crying, pain, etc.! (Revelation 21 and 22).

The Glory and Blessings of Fellowship with all the Redeemed.

Often when we meet for fellowship down here we say afterwards, “It has been a foretaste of Glory!” This is true, for when we are glorified we shall meet with the saints of all ages (Luke 13:29) – the Old Testament saints, the New Testament saints, the early Christian martyrs, the Reformers, all our Christian friends and loved ones, and multitudes of children (Matthew 18:10). What a glorious reunion this will be – and, of course, we shall recognise one another! This recognition is implied (1 Corinthians 13:12); illustrated (Luke 9:30-31); affirmed (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18); confirmed (1 Thessalonians 2:19); and guaranteed (1 Corinthians 15:6).

The Glory and Blessings of Engaging in the King’s Service.

Revelation 22:3 tells us this, and Matthew 25:21 tells us that all our service here and now is a preparation for service there and then. Compare also Matthew 19:28; Luke 19:17 and 1 Corinthians 6:2-3. It is difficult to conceive in what ways we shall serve Him there, but we shall serve Him – and how glad and how glorious such service will be! Remember, however, that faithfulness here qualifies for authority and responsibility there.

The Glory and Blessings of True and Unhindered Worship

This study ends where it began, for we emphasise again that the supreme joy and wonder of our glorification will be experienced when we join with “the countless multitudes on high that tune their song to Jesus’ Name, (and) all merit of their own deny and Jesus’ worth alone proclaim.” Do you belong to Him? If so, “those he justified, he also glorified.” Look up Jude, verses 24-25.

I cannot tell how all the lands shall worship,

When, at His bidding, every storm is stilled,

Or who can say how great the jubilation

When all the hearts of men with love are filled.

But this I know, the skies will thrill with rapture,

And myriad, myriad human voices sing,

And earth to heaven, and heaven to earth, will answer:

At last the Saviour, Saviour of the world, is King!

CHAPTER 4

THE APOSTLE AND HIS LETTER

(Colossians 1: 1-18)

Paul’s letter to the Colossians was written about AD 62 to the church at Colosse, a city in Asia Minor, situated on the Aegean Sea. It is generally supposed that Epaphras founded and afterwards ministered to this church and that Paul never visited the city, as Colossians 1:4,9 and 2:1 seem to indicate. Paul’s object in writing was to send help and guidance in connection with serious heresy which had come into the Colossian church, a false doctrine which was a mixture of speculative oriental mysticism and Judaistic legalism. The former denigrates the Person and Work of Christ, and the latter propagates the false notion that salvation is obtainable by works. How up-to-date Colossians is! –- for you can trace these heresies in practically every modern false system. In Colossians 1:1-8 the apostle gives us a five-fold description:-

PAUL’S DESCRIPTION OF THE LORD

The false teaching which had come into the church at Colosse was derogatory to the Person of Christ, so Paul speaks of Him in a three-fold way:-

He gives Him His full title.See the end of verse 2 (KJV) and verse 3. Let us give our Lord Jesus His full title and acknowledge His lordship –- look up 1 Corinthians 12:3.
He emphasises His deity.In verse 3 we read, “God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” –- and compare verse 2 –- “God our Father”. God is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ in an unique sense.
He designates Him as the Second Person in the Godhead.The Trinity is mentioned in these few verses: the Father (in 2 and 3); the Son (in 1,2,3,4 and 7); and the Spirit (in 8).

PAUL’S DESCRIPTION OF HIMSELF

He is “an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God” (verse 1) –- and again the description is three-fold:-

“An apostle”.The word means “a sent one” –- compare Luke 6:13. An apostle was one who had seen the Lord and had been a witness of His resurrection –- look up Acts 1:21-22 and 9:3-6.
“An apostle of Christ Jesus”.How wonderful to be the special messenger of the King of kings! –- and we are to be just that –- look up 2 Corinthians 5:20.
“By the will of God”.Paul’s call and authority were derived from God Himself –- compare Galatians 1:1 and John 15:16.
PAUL’S DESCRIPTION OF TIMOTHY

This is also in verse 1: “Paul, an apostle……and Timothy our brother……” Notice:-

The apostle’s affection.He describes young Timothy as his brother. Timothy was, of course, his “own son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2), and fellow-labourer in the gospel –- look up Acts 16:1-3.
The apostle’s humility.Paul was the great apostle and Timothy the young assistant; the one man was much older than the other, so it is a mark of Paul’s humility that he mentions Timothy.
The apostle’s diplomacy.This is very beautiful. Timothy was a native of the region where these Christians lived, and many would be thrilled to hear his name mentioned. Paul was always very tactful when it came to the matter of bettering human relationships.
PAUL’S DESCRIPTION OF THE COLOSSIANS

This seven-fold description is contained in verses 2, 4, 5 and 6:-

He addresses them as “saints”(verse 2 KJV). Every Christian is a saint. God places us “in Christ” (verse 2), and immediately we become saints –- look up Ephesians 3:18 and Philippians 4:21.
He speaks of their steadfastness.That is the meaning of the word “faithful”. There were some in the church who were not faithful –- but look up 1 Corinthians 15:58.
He refers to their new relationship in Christ.In verse 2 he describes them as “brothers”; this is the true brotherhood –- look up Romans 8:29; Hebrews 2:11.
He speaks of them as believers(verse 4). He refers to their “faith in Christ Jesus”. Faith must not only be initial, trusting Christ for salvation, but it must be comprehensive –- look up the last phrase in Romans 1:17.
He especially mentions their love.In verse 4 he speaks of their love “for all the saints”, and in verse 8 he tells us that this love was “in the Spirit”. Look up Galatians 5:6; if we have faith we shall love! –- compare Galatians 6:10; 1 Thessalonians 3:12 and 2 Peter 1:7.
He says these Christians were filled with hope(verse 5). To rejoice in our inheritance in Christ will fill us with hope, and will banish doubt and fear –- look up 1 Peter 1:4.
He describes them as fruitful Christians(verse 6). This is God’s will for each one of us –- look up John 15:4-5 and 8.
PAUL’S DESCRIPTION OF EPAPHRAS

This three-fold description is in verses 7 and 8.

He was Paul’s dear fellow-servant.Paul looked upon every other true servant of the Lord as a partner, a co-labourer –- see 1 Corinthians 3:5-9.
He was a faithful minister of Christ.This, above all, is what God requires of us –- look up Matthew 25:21 and 1 Corinthians 4:2.
He was a proclaimer of love.Let us speak well of others; let us declare their “love in the Spirit”.

PRAYING AND GIVING THANKS

(Colossians 1: 9-14)

Paul was a man of prayer. He was a great Christian, an outstanding scholar, a model missionary, a giant among men, spiritually, morally and intellectually, but above all he was a man of prayer. His Christian life began in prayer (Acts 9:10-11); he prayed for himself (2 Corinthians 12:7-9), he asked others to pray for him (Ephesians 6:18-20), and he practised the holy art of intercession, praying for others, like his Lord (John 17:9).
It is significant to notice that Paul’s prayers were full of praises. In this study we are to notice his praises in Colossians 1:3 and 12; his prayers in Colossians 1:3 and 9; then in Colossians 1:9-14 we are told for what he prayed.

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF PAUL’S PRAYER

Verse 9 tells us that:-

It was marked by “……we have not stopped praying for you……” Paul knew something about unceasing prayer –- look up 1 Thessalonians 5:17, and compare Luke 18:1! Prayer is a warfare –- look up Ephesians 6:12, and if we give up when we are praying the battle goes to the enemy –- look up Acts 2:42 and 46.
It was marked by Notice the word “asking” in this verse. The KJV has the word “desire”. It indicates that Paul was passionate in his praying; his prayers were filled with a deep longing. There was an intensity about them –- compare Matthew 17:21.
It was marked by Paul says, “We have not stopped praying for you……” We may pray alone (Matthew 6:6; James 5:17), but there is special power in united, corporate prayer –- look up Acts 16:25, and compare Matthew 18:19.
THE CONTENT OF PAUL’S PRAYER

In Colossians 1:9-14 we are told that Paul prayed for seven things:-

That they might be given We have this in verse 9. He prayed that these Colossians might be filled “with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding……” We need spiritual enlightenment in order that we might know the will of God and do it. By nature we cannot understand the things of the Spirit of God –- look up 1 Corinthians 2:14, and compare John 3:2-7.
That they might lead livesPLEASING to the Lord. This is mentioned in verse 10 –- “that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way” –- look up and compare Romans 15:3 and Galatians 1:10.
That they might engage inPROFITABLE Verse 10 says – – “bearing fruit in every good work……” Until we become Christians our lives are unprofitable, and it is only when we are converted that they are made profitable –- look up Philemon 10-11. The will of God is that our lives should manifest the fruit of the Spirit – – look up Galatians 5:22-23, and compare 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and 2 Peter 1:5-7
That they mightPROGRESS in the Christian life. Verse 10 continues –- “……growing in the knowledge of God”, and the operative word is the word “growing”. Paul longed that these Christians should grow. See the beautiful picture in Hosea 14:5-7. The Christian life is in three stages: “dear children”, “young men” and “fathers” –- 1 John 2:12-14.
That they might be endued with Verse 11 goes on –- “strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might……” Paul is praying that they might have the experience of Pentecost (Acts 2:4), for none of the things of which we have been thinking are possible in our own strength –- look up and compare Ephesians 3:16 and Philippians 2:13. Potentially, the power of the Holy Spirit has been given to us; but what about experimentally? –- look up Acts 1:8, and compare Luke 11:13.
That they might have Notice how Paul continues in verse 11 – – “so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks….” Notice the words “patience” and “endurance” and compare with James 5:11. The apostle prays that these Christians might endure in the face of fierce testing, that they might do so with a gentle and loving spirit, and that they might be filled with joy, even though called upon to suffer for their Lord -– look up Acts 5:41, and compare 1 Peter 4:13.
That they might be filled with It is important to notice the difference between praise and prayer. There are some things for which we are to pray; but there are blessings for which we are to thank God because He has already given them to us – notice the word “has” twice in verses 12 and 13, and the word “have” in verse 14. We do not need to pray, nor should we pray for these things which we have. What are they?
1. HisPROVISION (verse 12). He has given us an “inheritance” –- look up and compare Romans 8:16-17. Thank God!
2. HisPOWER (verse 13). See what He has delivered us from and translated us to! –- and compare Exodus 14:13-31! Thank God!
3. HisPARDON (verse 14). How we should thank God that all our sins have been removed from us (Psalm 103:12); blotted out (Isaiah 44:22); cast into the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19); and that God will remember them against us no more (Hebrews 10:17). Thank God!

THE SUPREMACY OF CHRIST

(Colossians 1: 15-29)

There is coming a day in which the Lord Jesus Christ will have the supremacy, a day when He will be Lord, and when “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow” (Philippians 2:10). What a glorious prospect this is for Him –- and for us!

Jesus shall reign where’er the sun
Doth his successive journeys run;
His kingdom stretch from shore to shore,
Till moons shall wax and wane no more.

But important as is the prophetic application of these words, there is an equally important present, personal application, and that is our theme here. The word “supremacy” means “holding the first place”. We are not thinking of the supremacy of one doctrine over another, one creed over another or one denomination over another, but of one personality over another. The one personality is the Lord Jesus Christ –- and the other is you and me. So, when we speak of the supremacy of Christ we mean Christ occupying the first place in our life. Is He first in our life, home, business, friendships, pleasures……? –- look up and compare Ecclesiastes 3:19 and 3 John 9.

THE LORD JESUS CHRIST ALONE HAS THE RIGHT TO BE SUPREME IN OUR LIVES

Only one person in the whole of God’s universe has the absolute right to occupy the first place in your life and mine; others may seek to have the first place, but it is not their right to seek or to obtain it. The Devil seeks the first place in your life and mine, but it is not his right to have it. There are three reasons why the Lord Jesus Christ alone has the right of being first in our life:-

Because He made us.Look up Colossians 1:16, and particularly notice that we were not only created “by Him” but “for Him”. Compare Proverbs 16:4 and Isaiah 43:7. He made us in order that He might be first in our hearts and lives.
Because He has redeemed us.Look up Colossians 1:13-14. We belong to Him by legal right, for He has purchased us with His own life’s blood –- look up 1 Corinthians 6:20, and compare 1 Peter 1:18-19. Through His infinite sacrifice upon Calvary’s cross, and by the mighty power of His resurrection, God has “rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves.” A kingdom must have a king. Once we were in Satan’s kingdom and he was our king; now we are in Christ’s kingdom and it is His right to reign over us. Is He King of your life?
Because God has given Him the supremacy.Colossians 1:18 tells us this. Compare John 5:23; then notice in Colossians 1:15-20 that God has given Him the supremacy:- (1) in likeness (verse 15); (2) in power (verse 15); (3) in creation (verse 16); (4) in eternity (verse 17); (5) in authority (verse 17); (6) in the church (verse 18); (7) in the new creation (verse 18); (8) in riches (verse 19); (9) in final victory (verse 20).

Now look up Matthew 12 and see that our Lord declares His supremacy by saying that He is greater than the temple (verse 6), the Sabbath (verse 8), the Devil (verse 29), Jonah (verse 41) and Solomon (verse 42). He is greater than all of them!

THOUGH IT IS THE RIGHT OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST TO OCCUPY FIRST PLACE IN OUR LIVES, HE DOES NOT ALWAYS DO SO

He is not always free to exercise His right, for in your life and mine very often self is first –- look up Luke 9:59 and 61, and notice the words “……first let me” –- and compare 3 John 9. Sometimes other things come first: another life (Matthew 10:37); personal ambition, pleasure or possessions (Luke 18:23).

THE LORD JESUS MAY BE PRESENT IN OUR LIFE, YET NOT SUPREME

If you are a Christian, He is truly present –- but is He supreme? It is true to say today that in measure He is present in our national life, our political life, our commercial life and our religious life, but He is not by any means supreme! The same may be true of us; He may be in, but not king; resident, but not president.

HE MAY BE PROMINENT BUT NOT SUPREME

He may hold an important place in our life and yet not hold the first place. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you if He is truly supreme or only prominent.

WHEN THE LORD JESUS IS SUPREME IN OUR LIVES THE FOLLOWING THREE THINGS ARE TRUE
There is supreme love to His Person.We love Him more than any other person or thing, more than His service, more than ourselves –- “……more than these” (John 21:15).
There is unquestioning obedience to His commands.Look up John 14:15, and compare John 2:5 and Acts 9:6.
There is complete submission to His will.When the Lord Jesus occupies the foremost place in my life I shall be willing to serve Him in the sphere of His choice, to suffer should He will it, and if necessary to die for Him. Indeed, my attitude will be, “Yes, Father: for this was your good pleasure” (Matthew 11:26).

THE PASTOR’S CONFLICT

(Acts 11: 19-26; Colossians 2: 1-5)

Paul had never seen the Christians at Laodicea or Colosse face to face, yet he writes to them of his deep concern for their spiritual welfare and of the burden upon his heart for their spiritual and eternal well-being –- Colossians 2:1. What an unveiling of the apostle’s heart! He is a model for every minister, pastor, leader and worker in the Lord’s vineyard; an example we can never hope to equal but should seek by grace to follow. In Colossians 2:1-5 we are told seven things about this conflict of which Paul speaks in verse 1:-

THE NATURE OF THE CONFLICT

It was not primarily physical; it was spiritual, mental and emotional. His great heart yearned over the Christians at Laodicea and Colosse, and this issued in a volume of intercessory prayer on their behalf. Paul’s conflict was a burden of spiritual desire for the blessing of the Lord to rest upon those who had been converted through his ministry or who had been entrusted to his spiritual care. Such conflict, of course, does affect the body. Doubtless the guards in Paul’s “rented house” (Acts 28:30) not only heard the apostle pray –- they saw him pray, and as he lifted his arms towards Heaven his whole being seemed to tremble as he poured forth his petitions. Do we know anything of such a conflict in our prayers for others?

THE INTENSITY OF THE CONFLICT

Paul calls it a “great conflict…” (verse 1 KJV). This suggests the idea of intensity. The prayer which filled his heart and mind was an intensely heavy burden. Indeed, the Greek word suggests that it was an agony –- look up and compare 1 Corinthians 9:24-26; 1 Timothy 6:12; Hebrews 12:1. How intense is the effort put forth by the sprinter or the wrestler – –and how intense must be the conflict in which Christians engage if they are to win through in prayer for blessing upon those for whom they have a spiritual concern! The word “conflict” (“struggling” NIV) suggests that there are obstacles in the way, as there are –- look up and meditate upon Ephesians 6:12, and compare Colossians 1:29.

THE SUBJECTS OF THE CONFLICT

Look again at verse 1. It is important to notice that Paul is not here speaking of a concern for the unsaved, but for the saved, for the babes in Christ who needed to grow to maturity –- compare Colossians 1:28. Paul undoubtedly had a passion for the salvation of sinners –- look up Romans 10:2; but his concern here was for the sanctification of the saints and the spiritual welfare of those who had been converted and needed to go on –- see Ephesians 4:14. Are we concerned for the welfare of the babes in Christ?

THE NECESSITY OF THE CONFLICT

In verse 4 the apostle tells us why he felt it such an urgent matter to wage a prayer warfare for his fellow-believers. It was that they were in danger of being turned aside by false doctrine; indeed, some of them had already been turned aside, and Paul was burdened that this undermining work of the Enemy should be arrested –- compare Colossians 2:8. Do such dangers exist today? They certainly do! Christians all over the world are faced with the subtle dangers of humanistic philosophies which discount the power and the wisdom of God. Often such philosophies are put out in the name of so-called “scholarship”. But in addition to the unbelief of many professing Christian teachers and leaders there is the presence on every hand of false cults. Paul felt that, in view of this situation which existed in his day, if someone did not engage in a conflict for the deliverance and protection of these babes in Christ they would be beguiled and moved away from their firm standing in Christ.

THE PURPOSE OF THE CONFLICT

Paul’s concern found expression in the prayer of intercession. Verses 2 and 3 tell us that he prayed that they might be blessed in five ways:-

That they might be Discouragement is the first enemy which attacks the new convert.
That they might beUNITED IN LOVE. There is safety for us in loving and in being loved.
That they might be Paul prayed that they might be “united in love, so that they might have the full riches……” –- look up Ephesians 1:3 and Colossians 2:9-10; 2 Peter 1:3.
That they might be Paul prayed that they might have “complete understanding……” Compare 1 Thessalonians 1:5; Hebrews 6:11 and 10:22.
That they might be Paul prayed that they might “know the mystery of God, namely Christ; in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge……” Compare Ephesians 1:17-18.

THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE CONFLICT

This is indicated in verse 5. The apostle tells us that though geographically he was separated from these Christians by a long distance, he was actually with them in spirit; as one translator renders it: “I am by your side, watching you like a proud father.” What joy it brought to Paul to see his prayers answered in the lives of those for whom he prayed!

THE SECRET OF THE CONFLICT

We may well ask: Who is sufficient for these things? How can we be faithful in exercising this ministry of intercession and of loving concern for others? The answer is in Colossians 1:29 and 2 Corinthians 3:5.

RECEIVING AND WALKING IN CHRIST

(Psalm 1 and Colossians 2: 6-10)

In Colossians 2:6-10 the apostle Paul appeals to Christians to go on in the same way as they started (verse 6). Just as we receive the Lord Jesus Christ by faith, so we must go on living and labouring –- walking by faith. This passage of scripture, the key-verse of which is verse 6, contains three vital truths about the Christian life:-

WE ARE TOLD WHAT IT REALLY MEANS TO BE A CHRISTIAN

What is a Christian? Some people believe that to be born in a “Christian” country, to have received a Christian education, or to accept and apply Christian principles makes a person a Christian. Or, they believe that being christened, baptised or becoming a member of a church makes anyone a Christian. No! It is possible to do all these things and still not be a Christian. According to verse 6, and other scriptures to which we shall refer, a Christian is one who has “received Christ Jesus as Lord”. He is not simply one who believes about “Christ Jesus as Lord”, or who receives the doctrines of Christ, but he is one who receives Him, the Lord Jesus Himself. Look up these four illustrations of this simple and glorious truth:-

John 1:11-12.Christians are those who have received the Lord Jesus; to believe on Him means to receive Him.
2 Corinthians 13:5.The proof that we are Christians is that the Lord Jesus Christ is dwelling in our hearts.
Galatians 2:20.A Christian is one in whom Christ dwells.
Colossians 1:27.The experience of the indwelling Christ is a “mystery” to the uninitiated, but it is a glorious reality to those who receive Him as Saviour and Lord.

WE ARE TOLD WHO IT IS THAT THE CHRISTIAN HAS RECEIVED

The Christian has received “Christ Jesus as Lord” (verse 6).

Take the first of these names: This is His human name given to Him by God at His birth (Matthew 1:21), and it refers to the historical man Jesus. But it has a much deeper significance, for it means “Saviour”. This was the great purpose for which our Lord Jesus Christ came into the world (1 Timothy 1:15).
Take the second of these names: This is His official title. He is the divinely appointed and anointed Messiah, the commissioned One; it is as “Christ” that He dwells within us (Colossians 1:27); in “Christ” that we are hidden (Colossians 3:3); and “Christ” who is our life (Colossians 3:4).
Take the third of these names: This indicates His sovereignty. The One whom we have received is the Master who is upon the throne in Heaven and who is to be enthroned in our hearts.

Every Christian has therefore received: (1) JESUS –- the Saviour who died for him – – look up Isaiah 53:5-6, and compare 2 Corinthians 5:21 and 1 Peter 2:24; (2) CHRIST – –the living One who dwells within him –- look again at Colossians 1:27 and Galatians 2:20; (3) the LORD –- the Sovereign and Master who rules over him –- look up Philippians 2:11, and compare 1 Peter 3:15. All this is very wonderful, for see what it actually means for the Christian:

All his sins are forgiven.The same Jesus who has been received is the One who bore his sins away on Calvary’s cross.
He has received a new life.The Christ whom he has received now lives within him as his life.
He recognises a new sovereignty.The One whom he has received is not only “Jesus” and “the Christ”, but He is “the Lord”, his Master and King.

WE ARE TOLD HOW WE ARE TO CONTINUE IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

Notice the words “as” and “continue” in verse 6. We become Christians in a moment by receiving “Christ Jesus as Lord”, but to live the Christian life takes a lifetime, and as we began so we must go on (verses 6 and 7). Verse 7 contains four instructive metaphors, describing four characteristics of a Christian who is going on with the Lord:-

The first characteristic is We are “rooted” –- rooted in “Christ Jesus the Lord”; and if this is so then we are secure, for our roots go right down into His glorious Person and into the fullness of His purpose in grace concerning us.
The second characteristic is We are being “built up in him”. We are not only secure, but our great need is to grow (2 Peter 3:18), and to be built up in the faith (Jude 20). When we receive the Lord we are only spiritual babes (1 Peter 2:2), but we must not remain in a state of spiritual infancy.
The third characteristic is We must become “strengthened in the faith”. Paul warns about the danger of being turned aside from the faith (Colossians 2:8); we may be turned aside by worldliness (1 John 2:15-17) or error (Ephesians 4:14-15).
The fourth characteristic is This is indicated by the word “overflowing”. Our lives are to be fruitful and a blessing to others –- look up and compare Psalm 1:3; John 7:38-39; 1 Corinthians 15:58.

Thus, we see the four directions of the Christian life:

Downward – “rooted”
Upward – “built up”
Inward – “strengthened”
Outward – “overflowing”

In conclusion, read Colossians 2:9-10, where the apostle reminds us that we “have been given fulness in Christ”!

A CHAPTER ON HOLY LIVING

(Colossians 3: 1-25)

The whole thrust of Paul’s argument and appeal in this chapter may be summed up thus: “Christian, because of your union with the Lord Jesus Christ in His death, burial, resurrection, ascension and exaltation, your life must be different!” The first two chapters of this letter are doctrinal, but now, with chapter three, we move into the practical and experimental teaching of the epistle. Our belief must behave; our creed must be translated into conduct; what we are “in Christ” (our standing) must be influenced by and must affect what we are (our state), wherever we are. The doctrine is vitally important, but we must make it attractive (Titus 2:10), and because of all that we are by virtue of our union with Christ, our whole life must be different.

WHAT ARE WE BY VIRTUE OF OUR UNION WITH CHRIST?

The expression “with Christ”, which occurs three times, (in verses 1, 3 and 4), gives us the answer.

The first speaks of our POSITION with (or in) Christ.“Raised with Christ……” (verse 1), and “died……with Christ” (verse 3). Through faith in Him we have died and have risen again –- look up Colossians 2:12 and Galatians 2:20. In God’s reckoning every Christian has been crucified with Christ and raised with Him.
The second speaks of our PROTECTION with (or in) Christ.“Hidden with Christ……” (verse 3) – and where is He? How wonderful this is: we are hidden with Christ in God! We are as safe as the Lord Jesus is. Could we be safer? This is true now and it will be true through all eternity.
The third speaks of our PROSPECT with (or in) Christ.We are to be glorified (verse 4), and in the purpose of God this glorification of the saints is already an accomplished fact –- look up Romans 8:30.

Thus, we see that by faith in Christ, through our union with Him, we have a new position, a new protection and a new prospect, and because of this our lives are to be different; our standing must influence our state; what we are “in Christ” must be seen in what we are in the world.

IN WHAT WAYS ARE OUR LIVES TO BE DIFFERENT?

We must PUT OFF certain things.“Therefore put to death your earthward inclinations –- fornication, impurity, sensual passion, unholy desire, and all greed, for that is a form of idolatry. It is on account of these very sins that God’s wrath is coming, and you also were once addicted to them, while you were living under their power. But now you must rid yourselves of every kind of sin –- angry and passionate outbreaks, ill-will, evil speaking, foul-mouthed abuse –- so that these may never soil your lips. Do not lie to one another, for you have stripped off the old self with its doings……” (verses 5-9 – – Weymouth). All these vices we are to put off. We are to put off, to reckon as dead (verse 5) all those things which pertain to the old life (verse 9).
We must PUT ON certain things.“And you have clothed yourselves with the new self, which is being remoulded into full knowledge so as to become like Him who created it. In that new creation there can be neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision, nor uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free man, but Christ is all and in all……Clothe yourselves therefore, as saints holy and dearly loved, with tender-heartedness, kindness, lowliness of mind, meekness and long-suffering; bearing with one another, and readily forgiving each other, if any one has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, you also must forgive. And over all these put on love, which is the perfect bond of union…” (verses 10-14 – Weymouth). Like the Prodigal, we came back to the Father in rags and tatters, but we do not stay like that –- we “put on” – – look up Luke 15:22-24.
We must LET IN certain things(verses 15 and 16)
- “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts……”We have peace with God (Romans 5:1), so now we must let the peace of God fill and flood our being (Philippians 4:7). This means a state of perfect harmony within, even though there is discord and distraction without –- look up Isaiah 26:3. How we need this peace, this freedom from fear and anxiety, this inner poise and power! We may have it – how?
- Let the word of Christ dwell in you……”If our minds are filled with His Word, our hearts will be filled with His peace! See Psalm 119:165 – and compare Colossians 3:16 with Ephesians 3:16 and 17.
We must LET OUT certain things.The word “do” occurs three times in verses 17 and 23:-
- Everything we do is to be done as service for the Lord.Note “whatever” in verse 23. This refers to preaching, praying, playing, working, our secular job, etc.
- We are to serve thankfully-– not groaning, grousing and complaining; but –- look up Philippians 4:6.
- We are to serve heartily.How can we serve in any other way when we serve such a glorious Master?
We must LOOK UP all the time(verse 24). Here is the secret of the first four! Our faith is in and our eyes are upon “the Lord” –- to whom one day every one of us must give account –- look up 2 Corinthians 5:10
.

TURNED BACK!

(Acts 13: 1-13; 15: 36-41)

We all need the solemn warning of Luke 9:62, and this particular study is specially designed to warn us from taking any course which will bring dishonour upon the Name of the Lord and unhappiness into our lives. John Mark stands out on the pages of the New Testament as a great character –- but he did “turn back”; however, from that position of spiritual relapse he “turned again” and was a most useful servant of the Lord and one whose ministry the apostle Paul valued tremendously (2 Timothy 4:11). In addition, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he wrote the Gospel which bears his name (2 Timothy 3:16). Let us gather up the scripture allusions to this man, whose Hebrew name was John and whose Roman name was Mark (or Marcus).

JOHN MARK WAS GREATLY FAVOURED IN HIS YOUTH
His mother was a Christian.We read in Acts 12:12 that the saints met for prayer in her home. He must have had constant contact with many of God’s servants. Picture that prayer meeting and those who would have attended it (Acts 12:12) –- Peter, in particular, and later on, Paul.
He was brought up in a godly home.He had been brought up according to Ephesians 6:4, and 2 Timothy 3:15 was true of him –- look up Proverbs 22:6.
There was evidently a measure of affluence in his home.We know that this must have been so, for Acts 12:12 tells us that “many” were gathered together in Mrs Mark’s home, and therefore it must have been a fairly large house, a house where servants were kept and guests were entertained. It is not always a blessing for young people to have been “born with a silver spoon in their mouths”, but it can be so!
Mark had consecrated relatives.We have already commented upon his mother; notice also that evidently Barnabas was his uncle or cousin –- look up Colossians 4:10. What a blessing a Barnabas-like relative can be!
Above all, John Mark was converted when he was quite young.1 Peter 5:13 suggests that he was converted through Peter’s ministry –- perhaps at the very prayer meeting recorded in Acts 12:12? How great to come to Christ when one is young, before the ravages of the world, the flesh and the devil have had time to spoil that life, and while that one has a whole life to lay at the feet of the Lord!
JOHN MARK ACCOMPANIED BARNABAS AND PAUL ON THEIR FIRST MISSION TO THE GENTILES – BUT, ALAS, HE TURNED BACK!

When we remember his background, his home, the influence of his mother, of Peter and of the many saints he must have known, it is small wonder that John Mark had a burning desire to serve the Lord in some special way and enter what we call “full-time service”. So it was that the opportunity came to accompany Barnabas and Paul –- read Acts 13:1-5. But read also Acts 13:13, where we find that he suffered a spiritual lapse. To any young people who are contemplating entering “full-time service” for the Lord we would say:-

Count the cost.Mark may have failed just here. Perhaps he felt the great “thrill” of being a missionary but did not sufficiently face up to the hardships and problems and testings of a missionary’s life –- read Luke 14:27-33.
Do not be in too much of a hurry.1 Corinthians 7:29 is true, and so is John 9:4 – and so is Isaiah 28:16. God never hurries when He is making and preparing His workmen –- look up Deuteronomy 8:2. Discipline is necessary and the lessons of humility, obedience and trust have to be well learned.
Be absolutely sure that your motive is pure.Why do you want to be a preacher, an evangelist, a missionary? Oswald Chambers once said, “It may be harder to face God with your motive than to face congregations with your message” –- look up Psalm 139:23.
Remember that you will have no greater success “on the field” than you are having here and now.“As now, so then”. Have you begun at home (Mark 5:19), at Jerusalem first(Acts 1:8)?
If you become a missionary or a preacher you will have to begin by serving an apprenticeship, by being an “assistant”.Acts 13:5 tells us that Paul and Barnabas had Mark as their “helper”, but “assistant” is the word. Are you willing for that? –- just to carry the “big” preachers’ equipment?
Be absolutely sure of your call.In Acts 13:2 and 4 we read that the Holy Ghost called twomen –- but three Was this third (Mark) of man’s appointing and not of God’s? The desire, the opportunity, the need, the ability and even the invitation –- these are not God’s call (though they may be present in the call) –- the call of God is indicated in Acts 13:2 and 4.
How solemn and sad it is to get out of the will of God!It brings trouble to ourselves, trouble to others, and it lets the Lord down (Acts 15:36-40).
THE LAST THING WE ARE TOLD ABOUT JOHN MARK INDICATES A COMPLETE RESTORATION AND REINSTATEMENT AND A FULL DEDICATION TO THE LORD AND TO HIS SERVICE

Compare Colossians 4:10 and 2 Timothy 4:11 –- and if you have got away from the Lord confess it to Him (1 John 1:9), and come back to Him quickly!

EPAPHRAS: AN EXAMPLE TO FOLLOW

(2 Corinthians 4: 1-12)

In Colossians 4:12 the apostle Paul describes Epaphras as “a servant of Christ Jesus”. He is mentioned only three times in the New Testament –- in Colossians 1:7-8; 4:12-13 and Philemon 23. He was a native of Colosse and a zealous worker for the Lord; through his ministry many of his fellow-countrymen had been converted, and thus the church at Colosse had been founded. In this church, as well as in the assemblies at Laodicea and Hierapolis, Epaphras exercised a pastoral and a teaching ministry (Colossians 4:12-13).

EPAPHRAS WAS A BELOVED FELLOW-WORKER

In Colossians 1:7 the apostle describes Epaphras as his “dear fellow-servant”. There was a special reason for referring to him in this way. At the time this epistle was written Epaphras was with Paul in prison, and he had visited Paul to seek his advice and counsel concerning errors which were creeping into the church at Colosse. But he did not only seek help, for without doubt he gave much help to Paul, comforting him and ministering to him in a number of different ways. What a great privilege it was for Epaphras to minister to God’s honoured, suffering apostle, and how natural that Paul should feel a deep affection for Epaphras!

EPAPHRAS WAS A FAITHFUL MINISTER OF CHRIST

He was undoubtedly a successful servant of the Lord –- but Paul emphasises that he was “a faithful minister of Christ” (Colossians 1:7). Can there be a greater commendation than this? Epaphras was the minister of the church at Colosse, but more important than that, he was a minister of Christ –- he was directly responsible to the Lord Himself. It was from the One who sat upon the throne that he received his orders, and to Him he was faithful. Look up the following references in the order given, and check up on this important question of being faithful to the Lord:- (1) Matthew 25:21; (2) Luke 16:10-12; (3) Luke 19:17; (4) 1 Corinthians 4:2; (5) 1 Timothy 1:12; (6) 2 Timothy 2:2; (7) Revelation 2:10.

EPAPHRAS WAS A BEARER OF GOOD NEWS

Look at Colossians 1:7-8: “Epaphras…who also told us of your love in the Spirit.” Nobody knew the church members at Colosse better than Epaphras, yet he said all the good things he could about them. He extolled their virtues and kept silent about their shortcomings. Be careful that you are never guilty of criticising your church or assembly; your careless criticism may breed disaffection among the members and bring dishonour upon the Name of the Lord. Notice that Epaphras was not only “of” the church at Colosse; he was “for” the church at Colosse. If you are “of” a church (belong to one), be sure you are always “for” it as well, for the Lord’s sake and for the sake of your fellow-believers –- look up James 1:27.

In his book, “The Sins of the Saints”, Dr Herbert Lockyer has this searching paragraph under the heading, “The Bitterness of Criticism”. “Bitter, unworthy and un-Christ-like criticism is the dead fly causing the ointment of many a good life to send forth a stinking savour. Whether in church or assembly, believe in it, and serve it with your utmost loyalty. Yes, and shield the faulty ones in the flock, exposing no-one’s dirty linen to the gaze of the public. If you do not altogether agree with a preacher, be silent about him before the godless. Do not tear him or any of your fellow Church members to pieces before children. To be guilty of dragging the failure of a church, preacher or Christian before the world is to act as a traitor in the camp. This is a sin of which we are all more or less guilty.”

EPAPHRAS WAS A MAN OF PRAYER

Colossians 4:12 tells us this. We should all be men and women of prayer, though some may be specially called to a ministry of prayer, as Epaphras evidently was. Notice the three characteristics of Epaphras’ praying:-

It wasPERSISTENT prayer –- “always…” Is not this where we so frequently fail? We give up, instead of holding on –- look up Genesis 32:26, and compare Luke 18:1 and 1 Thessalonians 5:17.
It wasAGONISING prayer –- “wrestling…” or, quite literally, “striving in an agony……” Here is the idea of intensity in prayer –- look up Acts 20:31.
It wasINTELLIGENT prayer –- “that you may stand firm, in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.” What need there is for such Spirit-taught praying –- look up Romans 8:26.
EPAPHRAS WAS A TRUE MISSIONARY

This is clear from Colossians 4:13. This man had a deep concern, not only for the Christians at Colosse, but also for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis. Have we any concern for the millions who have never heard the gospel? Do we pray for their salvation? Do we give of our own substance for missionary work? Could we go to the foreign field? May God give us all a true missionary vis.

CHAPTER 5

THE SNARE OF WORLDLINESS

(1 John 2: 15-29)

Almost every character of whom we read in the Word of God is known for something; each is associated with some deed of glory and honour, or of shame and dishonour. The subject of this study is Demas, who is mentioned in Colossians 4:14. Here was a man who lived and worked with the apostle Paul but who afterwards, like John Mark, deserted him (Luke 9:62). When Paul wrote this Colossian letter all was well (Colossians 4:14), but things had tragically changed when, some four years later, he wrote to Timothy –- see 2 Timothy 4:10. Demas had been a man of great privilege. He had been converted at Thessalonica, most likely through the ministry of Paul. Added to this, he actually worked with the great apostle. But though he was so privileged, he suffered a serious spiritual breakdown; and we must remember that his backsliding started in his heart before it became manifest in his life –- look up Proverbs 14:14, and compare 2 Timothy 4:10. What was the cause of his going back? In Demas’ case the cause was worldliness, but there are other scriptural reasons why people go back:-

A LOVE FOR THE WORLD

2 Timothy 4:10 warns us of the snare of worldliness. This does not necessarily mean that he attended places of worldliness, for it is possible to be a worldly Christian without ever participating in the world’s pleasures. Worldliness is everything around us which excludes the Lord Jesus Christ. Demas probably began to adopt the world’s standards; possibly he began to view missionary endeavour from the world’s standpoint and found himself asking, “Is it worth it?”, and consequently he lost the heavenly vision (Acts 26:19). It is sad when the world’s icy grip begins to affect a Christian. Consider the serious words in 1 John 2:15-17.

SEVERE PERSECUTION AND TESTING

Look up Matthew 24:9-10; compare Matthew 5:10-12 and 1 Peter 4:12-19 –- and then look up Luke 8:13. Is this a commentary upon the experience of Demas? It frequently happens that those who have trusted Christ and have confessed their faith in Him “falter” when the fires of persecution begin to burn. Many young believers who have been nurtured in a Christian home and church discover, when they leave home to go to college or to work out “in the world”, that their faith is very severely tested. Some, like Demas, turn back! All such tested ones need our prayers, (not our criticisms), and all the encouragement we can give them.

FALSE TEACHERS

It is improbable that this was true in the case of Demas, though there were many in his day, as in ours, who were side tracked by false teachers –- look up Matthew 24:11, and compare 2 Timothy 4:3-4. Be on your guard lest the subtle endeavour of some of the cults turn you from your hope and from the simplicity that is in Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3) – – look up Acts 20:29-30; 1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Peter 2:1-3.

FORSAKING THE HOUSE OF GOD

When those who have at one time loved the Lord begin to “cool off” in their love and zeal, it is usually detected by their less frequent attendance at the services of their church – –look up Hebrews 10:24-25. How many folk used to go to church, be at the prayer meeting, attend the Bible study, or used to be a keen worker for the Lord! Their spiritual experience is now all in the past tense; like Demas, they have gone back –- look up Acts 2:42, and compare Colossians 1:9-11.

INDULGING IN SOME SIN

There is a solemn warning about this in 1 Timothy 1:19-20. One “little” sin harboured and indulged in (Psalm 66:18) is enough to precipitate a headlong spiritual downfall. Give no ground to the enemy! (Ephesians 4:27); “keep short accounts with God”, and confess all sin to Him immediately! –- look up 1 John 1:9, and compare Proverbs 28:13.

FAILURE TO RECEIVE THE WORD OF GOD

Look up John 6:66. It was when the Lord Jesus began to reveal some of the deeper truths concerning Himself and His mission that many turned back. The only way to go on in the Christian life is to receive the Word of truth as the Holy Spirit reveals it to us; not to do so is to go back, for there is no standing still. To live in disobedience is to do what Demas did –- to experience a spiritual lapse (1 John 2:5) – – compare Hebrews 4:2 with James 1:22.

DEFECTIVE KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST

Look up 1 John 2:19, which suggests that some who turn back like Demas do so because they have never been truly born again; they have only professed to be Christians (2 Timothy 3:5); they have never possessed Christ (John 1:12; Galatians 2:20). What about doing a little of 2 Corinthians 13:5?

What are the safeguards against spiritual relapse? –- for we must give heed to the injunction in 1 Corinthians 10:11-12. Turn to 2 Timothy 4:6-10 and 17-18, and see how Paul himself stood firm against any kind of relapse:

Paul was fully yielded to the will of God(verses 6 and 7). Are we fully yielded to His will?
Paul lived in the light of the Second Advent(verse 8, and compare 1 John 2:28 and 3:1-3). Do we live in the light of His near return?
Paul had absolute confidence in the Lord to deliver and to preserve him(verses 17 and 18). This can and should be our confidence also.

By God’s grace, let us press on –- until Jesus comes!

ARCHIPPUS: FULFILLING OUR MINISTRY

(2 Timothy 2: 1-15)

This concluding study in our series is based upon one of Paul’s requests at the end of his Letter to the Colossians:-

“Tell Archippus: ‘See to it that you complete the
work you have received in the Lord.’ ” (Colossians 4:17)

It almost seems as if this personal note was added as a postscript at the end of his letter. Let us look at the four very important thoughts contained in this one verse –- verse 17:-

THE REQUEST THAT PAUL MAKES

It is very simple indeed: “Say something to Archippus!” Who was he? He is only mentioned here and in Paul’s letter to Philemon. It is very likely that he was the son of Philemon, in which case he lived in a fine Christian home in Colosse; and he was a minister, a leader, a pastor having the charge of an assembly of believers. Was he the pastor of the church at nearby Laodicea –- Colossians 4:16? In Philemon 2 he is spoken of as Paul’s “fellow-worker”. Thus, we see that Archippus was a man of special privilege: son of Christian parents, member of a Christian household, in special service for the Lord –- and it was to this man that Paul felt compelled to send a special message, indeed, a word of warning. “Say something to……” this man of special privilege. Has the Lord something to say to those of us who are pastors, evangelists, teachers, Christian workers?

THE PRIVILEGE THAT PAUL HIGHLIGHTS

Archippus was privileged for each of the reasons mentioned above, but there was one special reason. Paul focused on this when he exhorted Archippus to “complete the work you have received in the Lord.” What a solemn and wonderful thing it was for Archippus, for he had received a ministry in the Lord! But every Christian has received a special ministry in the Lord –- look up 1 Corinthians 12:7, and compare Ephesians 4:7. The Lord has given a special task to every child of His. What is the ministry you have received in the Lord? –- not the ministry that you have assumed or undertaken just because it appeals to you, but the ministry you have received in the Lord, your God-appointed, God-given task? Name it –- or perhaps you have not discovered what it is?

Maybe yours is the task of bringing up your own children “in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). What a privileged ministry yours is!
Maybe yours is the task of bringing up or caring for someone else’s children. This indeed is an honour which offers great scope for really fruitful service.
Maybe yours is the task of serving your local church as an office-bearer: deacon, treasurer, secretary, teacher, steward, organist. You are a privileged person.
Maybe yours is the task of engaging in all kinds of loving ministries behind the scenes. You may be far too timid to appear in public, but what a privilege you have to “do your bit” behind the scenes!
Maybe yours is the task of bringing encouragement to those who are in the forefront of the battle. Mr. Encourager –- is that your name?
Maybe yours is the task of exercising a ministry of correction. Yes, you are a privileged person, but what grace, tenderness, wisdom and care you need!
Maybe yours is the task of praying for the Lord’s work and workers. You say, “There’s not much I can do –- only pray!” Is that all?

You see, as members of His Body we all have a function to fulfil, a job to do –- read 1 Corinthians 12:14-17 and Romans 12:3-8 carefully and thankfully.

THE FAITHFULNESS THAT PAUL DEMANDS

“Archippus……the work you have received in the Lord……complete it!” There is a beautiful illustration of its meaning in John 2:7. So Paul exhorted Archippus to fill his service for the Lord up to the brim –- fully. This is what God requires of all His servants –- unhesitating, unquestioning and unconditional obedience, plus diligence and whole-heartedness. See what the Lord Jesus was able to say –- John 17:4, and compare Paul’s own words –- 2 Timothy 4:7. Towards the end of his life Paul could say that he had fulfilled the purpose that God had for his life –- and he urged Archippus to see to it that he could say the same. Had Archippus been unfaithful? Dr Ironside says that it seems likely that he “had a tendency, not uncommon among some young preachers, to settle down comfortably and take things easily.” Was this Archippus’ failing? Is it ours? Are we lazy, careless, undisciplined? Perhaps the word we should use is lukewarm. Are we lukewarm? Why use this word? Because it would most aptly fit the case if it is true that Archippus was pastor of the church at Laodicea –- look up Revelation 3:14-22. There is no doubt about the fact that every Archippus, every preacher, pastor and leader is beset by special temptations, and for this reason Paul gives a warning to Archippus.

THE WARNING THAT PAUL GIVES

“See to it……”! Be watchful, on the alert! Give attention to this divine task. Compare these words with what Paul says to Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:5b, “……do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry“. May God give us the grace to be careful and always diligent to complete the work we have received from the Lord

MARY: MOTHER OF THE LORD JESUS

(Luke 1: 26-55; John 2: 1-11)

It concerns the Virgin Mary. She was the one whom God chose to be the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 4:4); the one who was to bear the seed (Genesis 3:15); the one who was a virgin (Isaiah 7:14); the one in whom the Saviour was miraculously conceived by the Holy Ghost, without the co-operation of a man (Matthew 1:20).
The scripture narrative has a good deal to say about Mary. Like John the Baptist (John 3:30), who introduced the Lord, Mary fades out of the picture, except for a few brief references and the fact that she was present in the upper room (Acts 1:14). In the Apocrypha there are stories about Mary, and later, tradition invented other stories, but these are unproven and are therefore rejected as being unreliable.
Her character was very beautiful. The scriptures reveal this (Luke 1:28,30), and we know it must have been so for God to set such a great honour upon her.
Romish errors and exaggerations abound. In her teaching, this church has raised Mary to the position of a female deity in holding to the dogmas of her Immaculate Conception, her Perpetual Virginity, her Bodily Assumption, that she is a Mediator between God and men and a hearer of prayer, etc.
In Protestant thought, Mary has been neglected. In this study we want to centre our thoughts upon this highly privileged woman, and in order to do so we shall trace the scripture references to Mary which show her chief characteristics.

We first read of Mary in connection with the announcement made to her by the Angel Gabriel that she was to become the mother of Jesus.

Read this wonderful portion of scripture – Luke 1:26-37. Mary lived in Nazareth, a small town which was a notoriously wicked place – look up John 1:46. She was a virgin and was engaged to be married (Matthew 1:18). In Luke 1:26-37, we read of the announcement which the Angel Gabriel made to Mary, and verse 38 tells us of Mary’s faith in God and her submission to His will. Notice the six “wills” in verses 31-33. Some of these prophecies have been literally fulfilled, and others await literal fulfilment. Notice also Mary’s very natural question in verse 34, and the angel’s answer in verse 35. There is a great spiritual truth enshrined here. How can we be born again? …sanctified?…or how can we effectively serve God? Only by the power of the Holy Spirit – look up John 3:3; 1 Corinthians 12:3 and Zechariah 4:6. A great honour was bestowed upon Mary, but think of the misunderstanding and suspicion which would surround her! To do the will of God often involves this – look up 1 Corinthians 2:14. Notice how wonderfully the angel concluded his announcement – see Luke 1:37.

After the Annunciation, Mary left Nazareth and went to the hill country to be with her cousin Elizabeth.

Read about this in Luke 1:39. Poor Joseph! One cannot help feeling sorry for him – but the Lord graciously undertook for him, as we learn from Matthew 1:18-25. Elizabeth rejoiced at Mary’s news and said a very significant thing – look up Luke 1:45. (There is great encouragement here for those of us to whom the Lord has spoken concerning something He is going to do in or for us.) Not only did Elizabeth burst into a song of praise, but so did Mary – see Luke 1:46-56, and particularly notice the last two words of verse 47, which indicate that Mary was a sinner needing a Saviour.

The next reference to Mary is in connection with the birth of Jesus.

Read Luke 2:6-7. After the birth of the Lord Jesus He was visited by the shepherds (Luke 2:8-20), and in due course by the Wise Men (Matthew 2:1-12); and concerning all that Mary saw and heard we are told that she “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19). Then came the naming of the child and the performance of the Jewish rite (Luke 2:21); then the flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15); and at last there was the return to Nazareth where for twelve years Mary devoted herself to training and nurturing her child, who “grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him” (Luke 2:40). Parents, please turn to Proverbs 22:6.

Mary and Joseph took Jesus, at the age of twelve, to present Him at the Temple at Jerusalem.

Read Luke 2:41-52. When they lost Him, they found Him “sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions” (Luke 2:46). Notice the interesting wording of Luke 2:48 and 49: “Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you…” Didn’t you know that I had to be in my Father’s house?” Here is the full recognition that God was His Father in a unique sense, and that He was His Son also in a unique sense.

Mary was present at the wedding of Cana, when Jesus turned the water into wine.

Read John 2:1-11. It was Mary who announced that the wine had run short. Our Lord’s reply to His mother seems to us abrupt, but it was a term of respect and it indicated a change in relationship and that He was now no longer subject to her (Luke 2:51). Mary’s faith and obedience shine out very beautifully in her statement recorded in verse 5.

Mary was present at the Cross of Calvary.

Read John 19:25-27. There she stood and watched her first-born crucified as a common criminal, (and here was the fulfilment of Simeon’s prophecy – Luke 2:35). Suddenly Jesus looked at her and spoke to her (verse 26)…and then he looked at John and spoke to him (verse 27). We are exhorted to honour our parents (Ephesians 6:2). What was the significance of our Lord’s words? His work on earth was completed, and John was to have the immense privilege of caring for Mary for the rest of her days on earth.

The last mention of Mary is in Acts 1:14.

Only at Pentecost did she fully understand the Person and the Work of the Lord Jesus. It is only there, when we are enlightened by the Spirit of Truth, that we too can understand these deepest of mysteries.

Let us ever be grateful for the honour which was bestowed upon Mary when she was chosen to be the mother of our Lord. Truly, all generations of the Lord’s people will call her blessed – look up Luke 1:45 and 48.

SIMEON: WAITING FOR THE LORD

(Luke 2: 25-35)

Simeon lived in Jerusalem. He was in all probability an old man, though we are not told this, and no indication is given of his position in life, nor as to whether he was rich or poor. However, there is one very important thing which we are told about him, and that is that day by day, as he lived and worked, he was “waiting for the consolation of Israel” (Luke 2:25); that is, he was waiting for and living in the expectation of the coming of the Messiah. It is surely significant that his name means “Hearing with alacrity”. He was doing just that – listening day by day, hour by hour, and moment by moment for the sound of the footsteps of the Son of God whose coming was drawing near.

Now, as Simeon lived just prior to the first advent and anticipated the first coming of the Lord Jesus, so you and I today live just prior to His second advent and should be anticipating His return. Simeon waited and watched for the Babe of Bethlehem, and you and I are to wait and watch for the Lord who said, “I will come back, and take you to be with me” (John 14:3). The glorious hope of the Saviour’s first advent powerfully influenced Simeon’s life, and the “blessed hope” of the Lord’s return should be a powerful incentive to us for holy living and sacrificial service – look up Titus 2:11-13.

Notice, in Luke 2:25-35, some of the characteristics of this man who waited for the coming of Christ

Simeon was absolutely sure that the Lord Jesus was coming.

He had no doubt about this, as we learn from verse 26. There were many details concerning the incarnation about which he was not at all clear, but of the fact that the Lord would come he was positive. Scoffers might pour ridicule upon him for his belief, but they could not rob him of his hope, for the grounds of his confidence were sure. You and I, who live in the light of the second coming of Christ, have the same glorious word of assurance. The Holy Ghost is the author of all scripture (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21), and the great message of the scriptures concerning the future is that Jesus is coming again – look up John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 John 3:1-3). Like Simeon, let us believe the word of the Lord and rejoice in this as our ground of confidence.

Simeon expected the Lord Jesus to come at any moment.

Verse 26 makes this clear! The older he grew the surer Simeon became that the birth of the Saviour was near. He did not know just when He would come, but as his hair whitened and his limbs became enfeebled, these were signs to him that the Lord’s coming was very near. And God has graciously given us signs by which we may know that the second coming of His Son is very near. The religious signs, moral signs, commercial signs, political signs, Jewish signs…these all proclaim the truth declared in James 5:8! Let us begin each day, as Simeon must have begun each day, by saying, “I wonder if my Lord will come today!”

Simeon was a just man.

We are told this in verse 25, and it means that his life was honest and upright in the eyes of men. He was sincere and he was known to be, as we say today, “above reproach”. As Christians, we should be known for our absolute honesty, our truthfulness, our dependability and our moral integrity. We shall never be perfect while we are in the flesh, but the Lord has made provision for us to be blameless (verse 25), which means that our lives should be such that they bring glory to His name and show forth His praise to those amongst whom we are living.

Simeon was a devout man.

Verse 25 tells us this, and it means that while he was honest and upright in the sight of men, he was holy (as the word really means) in the sight of God. God’s command to us is that we should be holy (Leviticus 20:7), and His provision is the gift of the Holy Ghost who reproduces within us the holiness of the Lord Jesus Himself. There is no great incentive to holy living than to believe, to live and to labour in the conviction that the Lord Jesus is coming again -–look up 1 John 3:3.

Simeon was a Spirit-controlled man.

The secret of a life that is pleasing in the sight of men and well-pleasing to God is the filling of the Holy Ghost – look up Ephesians 5:18. There were three characteristics of Simeon’s Spirit-controlled life:

Verse 25 tells us “the Holy Spirit was upon him.”
Verse 26 tells us “it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit.”
Verse 27 tells us “Moved by the Spirit he went into the temple courts.”

The Spirit-controlled life is a life which is endued with the Spirit, taught of the Spirit and led by the Spirit. Simeon had an insight into dispensational truth, as verses 30-32 indicate. In verse 32 he stated that the Lord Jesus was to be, first, “a light for revelation to the Gentiles”; and second “for glory to your people Israel”. He knew that although He had come to His own people they would reject Him, and the gospel would be preached to the Gentiles (John 1:11; Acts 28:28). Notice also that the Holy Spirit always leads to and glorifies the Lord Jesus – compare verse 27 with John 16:13-14.

Simeon was a surrendered man.

We must make this observation, for in verse 29 there are three words which indicate this. The word “Lord” means “Over-lord”; the word “servant” means “bond-servant”; and the phrase, “as you have promised” indicates complete submission to the promises of the Lord. Here is the picture of a surrendered life – a life which recognises Jesus as the Lord, which takes the place of a bond-servant under His authority and which is completely submissive to His word.

Thus – Simeon was ready to welcome the Lord Jesus when He came.

Verse 28 gives us a beautiful picture. When Simeon saw Him for whom his soul had been longing, he took Him in his arms. May we be as ready to welcome the Lord Jesus when He comes the second time as Simeon was to welcome Him when He came the first time – look up Revelation 22:20! PETER: HIS TRAGIC DOWNFALL

(Luke 22: 31-62)

It seems too bad that of all the wonderful things we are told about the apostle Peter we should choose for our study the one incident which shows him up in his worst light! However we have chosen this particular study in order that it may prove to be a warning to us, for we are all in danger of failing as Peter did. No-one is immune from the possibility of a spiritual downfall.

If Peter is the best loved apostle, (as he is to many), surely the reason is that he was intensely human, as we are! He was impulsive and impetuous, as we are! He made mistakes and spoke unwisely, as we do! These very things about Peter, the unlearned, rather rough, clumsy fisherman, are the very things which attract us to him.

What sad reading Luke 22:31-62 makes, for it tells of Peter’s downfall. Read it carefully and remember two things:

Peter did not expect to deny his Lord. In spite of the Saviour’s warning (verses 31 and 34), to deny his Lord was the last thing that he thought he would do. We do not intend or expect to deny our Lord, do we? – and yet by His grace, we need never do so – but let us be careful and take heed to the words of 1 Corinthians 10:12.
Peter’s fall was gradual. No-one falls suddenly; that is to say, backsliding is a process; it takes place in stages, a step at a time, gradually. What were the steps downward which led Peter to his final three-fold denial of the Lord?

The First Step: SELF-CONFIDENCE

Does not verse 33 suggest over-confidence? And Peter said this in spite of our Lord’s warning to him – see verse 31. It is always very dangerous to be too arrogant, and it is always fatal for a Christian to boast of what he is going to do. We see this same characteristic of impetuous self-confidence in Peter when he tried to walk on the water to go to the Lord (Matthew 14:28-31). Let us beware of self-reliance in every shape and form, for it always leads to failure. Look up Proverbs 28:26, and ask yourself if you are trusting in yourself and in your own wisdom and strength, in any way.

The Second Step: PRAYERLESSNESS

Read verses 40 and 45. Self-confidence and prayerlessness usually go together. What need is there to pray if we think ourselves to be strong enough already? Prayer is an admission of weakness and insufficiency, and probably the reason for 90% of spiritual breakdowns is prayerlessness. If you are following the Lord “afar off”, ask yourself now if the main reason for the declension in your Christian life is not due to a neglect of prayer and Bible-reading.

The Third Step: CARNALITY

Read verse 50, and compare John 18:10. To be carnal is to live and act in the energy of the flesh instead of in the power of the Spirit. It is always an indication that we are out of touch with the Lord when we say and do rash and unspiritual things. A carnal Christian so quickly brings dishonour upon the name of the Lord. Read 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, and notice that the chief mark of carnality is a state of protracted infancy! Peter acted like an undisciplined child when he struck off Malchus’ ear. Christian, do you ever speak or act in this way?

The Fourth Step: PETER FOLLOWED AFAR OFF

Read verse 33 again – and then verse 54. What a contrast! How sad to be missing just at the time when the Lord was needing his moral support! These are days in which the Lord needs His people to be living in close touch with Him. Are you following afar off? – look up Luke 9:62. You used to go regularly to the prayer meeting, but now you are following afar off! You used to seek the lost, but now you are following afar off! Is that true of you?

The Fifth Step: WORLDLINESS

Read verse 55 – and compare Psalm 1:1. When our Lord was being tried, Peter, who had promised Him so much, was identified with the world which was rejecting Him. Are we like that? Worldliness is anything and everything that leaves the Lord Jesus out. Peter “sat down” with the world. Do you? Alas, many Christians do! Are you warming up by the world’s fire? If so, it is a sure sign that you have lost something of the fire of the love of the Lord Jesus in your life – look up 2 Timothy 1:6, which literally reads, “Stir up, fan the flame, rekindle the embers and keep burning…”

The Sixth Step: INCREASING INSENSITIVITY

As things went from bad to worse, it seems that Peter became more and more insensitive to the Lord and to what He had said to him in warning him of the terrible denial which was to follow – look up and prayerfully read verses 31-33, and 40. This is what happens when we backslide; we literally slide more and more down the slippery slope from self-confidence to prayerlessness, to carnality, to following afar off, to worldliness – and then we become so insensitive that we can actually end up by denying the Lord. There is no prayer that we need to pray more frequently than the prayer that God will graciously prevent us from ever getting into a position or a place where we become insensitive to His voice and the knowledge of His will for our lives.

The Final Step: OPEN DENIAL

Read verses 56-60. Not once or twice, but three times Peter denied his Lord. Oh, how solemn, that a Christian can fall so far! Thank God we can conclude this study by pointing out the wonderful way in which Peter was led to repent of his backsliding and to return to the Lord. Read verses 61 and 62. What a “look” that was! How sad, how loving, how forgiving, how melting! It seemed to say to Peter – “Peter, come back!” Read John 21:15-17, and look up Psalm 139:23-24

CHAPTER 6

JUDAS ISCARIOT: HIS TERRIBLE BETRAYAL

(Acts 1: 15-26)

The story of Judas is one of the sad stories in the Bible. We think of Cain, who slew his brother (Genesis 4:1-10); of David, who committed the two-fold sin of adultery and murder (2 Samuel 11:1-27); of the Rich Young Ruler and his refusal (Luke 18:18-25); of Ananias and Sapphira, who committed the sin of deception (Acts 5:1-11) – but the saddest story of all is that of Judas Iscariot, for his story and his end are full of ignominy and shame. The history of this man is told in the four gospels, and it is gathered up in the first chapter of Acts, verses 15-26. We shall confine our study to a consideration of this latter portion.

Judas never was a converted man.

Always remember that the story of Judas is not the story of a backslider. Acts 1:25 tells us that Judas “left” – but he did not leave being a Christian, for he never was one. He left his privileged office and position among the apostles. To be safe in the “hand” of the Father and of the Saviour is to be safe, secure for ever! – look up John 10:28-29. Judas never knew this security which belongs only to those who are saved – look up John 6:70 and 17:12.

Jesus knew all about Judas when He chose him.

As a matter of fact, the choice of Judas and also the betrayal were prophesied in the Old Testament (Acts 1:16, and compare Psalm 41:9 and Psalm 109:1-8). What a mystery it is that our Lord chose Judas – John 2:25; 6:64 and 70! But then, it surely is a mystery that He should have chosen us! There are many things we do not understand, and this is surely one of them. The truth enshrined in John 13:7 helps us in this connection.

Judas was chosen as one of the Twelve.

Acts 1:17 tells us this, and it indicates that Judas was a man of special privilege. He was one of the inner circle who knew the Lord most intimately and who listened most frequently to His teaching. He was the treasurer in the apostolic band (John 13:29), and he was evidently fully respected and completely trusted until the time of his terrible betrayal.

Judas sold the Lord for a paltry sum of money.

Read Acts 1:18, and compare Matthew 26:15 and 24; 27:5, 9-10. All this was a fulfilment of Zechariah 11:12-13. Many have sold our Lord Jesus Christ for far less. It is most important that we get our priorities right. If we put Christ first, then all will be well – look up Matthew 6:33.

Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss.

Read Acts 1:16 and compare Matthew 26:47-49. Here we see how sin gains momentum and reveals the depths of wretchedness that lurk in the human heart – look up Jeremiah 17:9.

Filled with remorse, Judas hanged himself.

Read Acts 1:18, and compare Matthew 27:3-5. What a dreadful thing to happen to one who had enjoyed close friendship and fellowship with the Lord Jesus!

Judas went “to where he belonged”.

That is a solemn expression in Acts 1:25, and it can only refer to Hell, the end of a Christless life, the final destiny of all who reject the Saviour. Judas was not lost because he committed suicide, but because of his rejection of the Lord Jesus – look up John 5:40.

That is a brief account of the story of Judas. What lessons are we to learn from it?

Right environment and spiritual privileges alone do not produce changed hearts. No-one could have been more privileged than Judas, yet after over three years of opportunity his heart was unchanged. There are many who have had the environment of a Christian home and a keen evangelical church who are nevertheless still unsaved – look up Jeremiah 8:20. It is sadly possible to be associated with the Lord Jesus, to hear His words and see His power and yet to be ultimately lost.
There is no salvation in moral living. Outwardly Judas was a good living man. Even his colleagues did not suspect that he would betray the Lord, as we learn from Mark 14:18-19; in fact, they chose him to be their treasurer! – look up Titus 3:5. Good people need to be saved every bit as much as bad people – look up Luke 18:9-14.
What a small value men put upon the Lord Jesus! In today’s sterling currency the equivalent would be just a few pounds. Many have sold Him for less than that!
One sin unrepented of may lead to a Christ-less eternity. Judas was covetous and he was a hypocrite, but beyond that he was not known as a notorious sinner. One sin may keep a person out of Heaven (Proverbs 28:13).
Opportunities and warnings persistently spurned lead to final disaster. Could anyone have had more opportunities of believing upon the Lord Jesus and trusting Him as Saviour than Judas? Yet he refused them, and committed the sin for which there is no forgiveness – wilful, persistent and final rejection of Christ – look up Proverbs 29:1.
When we die we shall all go to the place prepared for us. Compare John 14:1-3 with Acts 1:25 – and look up Matthew 25:41. It must be Heaven or Hell for everyone.
All of us are known for something. What a terrible verse Acts 1:19 is! It refers to a permanent memorial of Judas’ inglorious act. In contrast with this read Mark 14:3-9. How patient the Lord was with Judas! He knew all along that Judas would betray Him. How patient and loving He is towards us! Have we responded to His love?

STEPHEN: FIRST CHRISTIAN MARTYR

(Acts 6: 5-15; 7: 1-60)

All that is recorded in the New Testament about Stephen is contained in Acts 6:5-15; 7:1-60; 8:2; 11:19 and 22:20. He was certainly one of God’s “spiritual giants”, and his gracious ministry was suddenly cut short by martyrdom. We think of him, quite rightly, as the first of the Christian martyrs. Very many have followed in his footsteps; indeed, today many are following in this train by laying down their lives for the sake of the gospel.

Stephen was one of the “seven” (Acts 6:3) selected to “wait on tables” (Acts 6:2); but it is interesting to note that almost immediately after this choice had been made, Stephen did “great wonders and miraculous signs among the people” (Acts 6:8). Like so many whom God used, and of whom we read in the book of Acts, Stephen was a man who was “full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom…and grace…and power…” (Acts 6:3 and 8). There are seven important truths which emerge from the record of his life and ministry:

The Greatest Service for God, and one in which every believer can share, is to shine for Him.

Not all of us can preach, perform miracles and contend for the faith like Stephen, but all of us can shine for the Lord, as he did – look up Acts 6:15. This is a most gracious ministry that is within the reach of every Christian. Moses experienced the blessing of a shining countenance – look up Exodus 34:29,30 and 35; and of our Lord we read that He was transfigured upon the holy mount – look up Matthew 17:2. We have all met Christians whose faces have literally shone with the glory of the Lord – but what is the secret of a shining countenance? It is an open secret – look up 2 Corinthians 3:18!

Spirit-filled workers are always mighty in the scriptures.

Have you noticed this? In Acts chapter 7, Stephen gave a complete survey of Jewish history. What a living illustration he was of 2 Timothy 2:15! Whenever God has a servant whom He is greatly using, you will find that that servant is one who feeds upon and who is filled with the Word. And to be filled with the Word is the way to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and to be filled with the Holy Spirit is to be filled with the Word. It is the privilege of every believer to be filled with the Holy Spirit – look up Ephesians 5:18; but the important thing is our capacity for the Holy Spirit. A “babe in Christ” may be as truly “filled” as a mature believer; both may be filled, but the capacity of the mature believer is infinitely greater than that of the “babe”. The only way to maturity is to feed upon the Word of God, and thus this is also the way to a greater capacity for His fulness – look up Colossians 3:16.

Faithfulness to God and persecution are inseparably linked together.

Read Acts 7:54,58 and 59. Stephen was determined to be faithful to God and to declare all the truth – as we learn from Acts 20:27, and this resulted in his enemies becoming enraged. But Stephen knew that the Lord had said that the pathway of obedience and service would by no means be easy – look up Matthew 5:10-12; John 16:33; Acts 5:41; Philippians 1:29 and 1 Peter 4:12-19, and compare Hebrews 11:34-37. The important thing is to be in God’s will and to be submissive to Him, whether it leads to being “sawn in two” or to “escape”.

True faith endures in trials through seeing Him who is invisible.

Of Moses, we read that by faith he did just that – look up Hebrews 11:27; and Stephen did the same – look up Acts 7:54,58,59, and verses 55 and 56! “When the outlook is bad, try the uplook!” - look up 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Paul and Silas were able to pray and sing praises to God even when they were suffering in prison. They proved the sufficiency of God’s grace to uphold them – look up Acts 16:22-25.

A Christian is one who is like Christ – Christ-like.

Being a Christian is not only a matter of profession (of what we say), but of possession (of what we are). A Christian is one who possesses Christ, and to possess Him is to become like Him – look up Galatians 2:20 and Colossians 1:27. Stephen was like his Lord; he was meek and lowly and he prayed for those who despitefully used him – look up Matthew 5:44 and 11:29. In his death, like Jesus, Stephen called upon God – compare Acts 7:59 and Matthew 27:46; he committed his spirit to God – compare Acts 7:59 and Luke 23:46, and see also 1 Peter 4:19; and he prayed for his enemies – compare Acts 7:60 and Luke 23:34. Are we like Jesus?

The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.

One of those who watched the stoning of Stephen and listened to his testimony and his dying prayer was Saul of Tarsus – look up Acts 7:58 and 22:20; and there is little doubt that the whole incident wrought deep conviction in the heart and conscience of this young enemy of the gospel. Thus the death of Stephen was at once fruitful in Saul’s conversion (Acts 9:1-17). But that was not the only immediate benefit of his death – look up Acts 11:19. The Christians were scattered, and so the gospel was spread! What a great truth is contained in Philippians 1:12!

To the believer, death is but a falling asleep.

Note the last three words in Acts 7:60. He had already committed his spirit to the Lord (verse 59) – but it was his body which fell asleep – look up and compare

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17. Stephen was “away from the body” and “at home with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:6-8). Death = sleep. How beautiful, for sleep means rest after toil, and freedom from fear, sorrow and all the strain of life. In sleep we pass from one day to another, and for the Christian, death is the short passage from earth’s little day of trouble to Heaven’s eternal day of glory! You and I may never sleep the sleep of death, but if we do, there need be no fear, for see 1 Corinthians 15:51-58!

PHILIP: DEACON AND EVANGELIST

(Acts 6: 1-7; 8: 1-40; 21:8)

The title of this study suggests a very healthy combination. Philip was a deacon (Acts 6:1-7) and he was an evangelist (Acts 8:1-40) – indeed, he is referred to by the Holy Spirit as “the evangelist” (Acts 21:8). Now, of course, it does not fall to the lot of every believer to hold “office” or to fill a position of leadership in the Church, but every Christian may be and should be an evangelist. Philip was an evangelist. His business was telling others of Jesus and leading others to Him, and that should be your business and mine, for being an evangelist or a preacher is not a “professional” matter. Evangelism is not a profession, it is a passion. There was nothing professional about Philip; he was a layman. How indebted the Church in every age has been to the laymen, the men and women who engage in all the exacting duties of home, business or profession but whose delight it is to devote their spare time, energies, talents and their very lives to the service of God and of His Church.

In Acts 6:3 we read that the early Church wanted seven men with special qualifications. Philip was elected by the prayerful voting of the Church, and his name appears second in the list (Acts 6:5). Some men are forever hankering after office, position and power, and they can be a great hindrance in any assembly. Other men cannot keep out of office, for their grace and gifts are recognised and the Church needs them. Philip was of this latter type.

Then, in Acts 8 we read of Philip filling the role of an evangelist – first preaching to the crowd in Samaria (Acts 8:5-8), and afterwards preaching to an individual in the desert (Acts 8:26-40). The man with gifts to evangelise the masses will always be ready to speak to the individual soul about Christ. But most of us are not preachers in this larger application of the word; we are “personal evangelists”. Let us look at Philip as he appears before us in Acts 8:26-40, and see in him the pattern of a New Testament evangelist.

Philip lived in close touch with his Lord.

Compare Acts 8, verses 26 and 29 – “The angel said…” “The Spirit told…” and Philip heard! God does not shout His instructions and orders. If we would be used by Him we must be living near enough to Him to hear His voice – like Isaiah when he overheard the Trinity in conference (Isaiah 6:8). We must watch our private devotions. To be regular in these is the greatest possible achievement, and the place of easiest failure.

Philip was absolutely at God’s disposal.

He was R.F.A. – Ready for Anything! Yes, and R.F.N. – Ready For Nothing, if that was the Lord’s will for him. Ready to preach to the crowd in Samaria (verse 5), or ready to seek the dark-skinned Eunuch in the desert (verse 30). Ready to be in the public eye, or ready to leave it. He could sing from the heart:

O, use me, Lord, use even me,

Just as Thou wilt, and when and where.

Can we say that, sincerely? When General Booth was asked the secret of his success in the Lord’s work he replied, “There came a day when God got all there was of William Booth.”

Philip was a man of unquestioning obedience.

Look at verse 26 – “The angel said…Arise…”; and in verse 27 – Philip “started out…” Then look at verse 29 – “The Spirit said, Go to that chariot…”; and in verse 30, “Philip ran…” What a perfect illustration of obedience! There was no argument, there were no “ifs” and “buts” – but just, “All right, Lord, if You say so I’ll do it!” He could have offered many excuses…(think of them)…but he did not suggest one. God told him to go to seek the Eunuch, and he sought him, and in the pathway of obedience he won him for his Master (verse 37).

Philip knew how to handle the Word of God.

In verses 30-35 we have a beautiful illustration of how to lead a soul to Christ. Dr R. A. Torrey used to mention the four things which every Christian worker should know about the Bible:

He should know how to use the Bible to show others the need of a Saviour.
He should know how to use the Bible to show them that Jesus Christ is just the Saviour they need.
He should know how to use the Bible to show them how to make the Saviour their
He should know how to use the Bible to meet all the differences that stand between the enquirer and the Lord.

Philip made much of the Lord Jesus.

Look at verses 5 and 35. His one theme was Christ. Philip knew what would happen if he uplifted Him in his preaching – look up John 12:32; and his message was the same, whether he was speaking to the crowd or to one man. God always and only honours the preaching and the testimony that honours His Son – look up John 5:22-23, and compare 1 Corinthians 2:2.

Philip was able to overcome discouragement.

This is important for anyone who would launch out into the Lord’s harvest field. We meet with many disappointments when we are working for the Lord, and we need to know how to prevent discouragement. Read Acts 8:9-24 – that was a blow for Philip! But the grace of the Lord is our all-sufficient resource in every time of disappointment and threatened discouragement – look up 2 Corinthians 12:9.

Philip was willing to be lost sight of.

We learn this from verse 39 – and look up and compare John 3:30.

And the secret of it all? Philip was a man “full of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:3).

DORCAS: FULL OF GOOD WORKS

(Acts 9: 36-42)

The story of Dorcas, which forms the subject of this study, has been an inspiration to thousands. It is packed full of valuable lessons, all of which are important and some of which need particular emphasis in these days. Dorcas lived in Joppa, a town situated on the shore of the Mediterranean, which at that time was the chief seaport of Palestine – compare Jonah 1:3 and Acts 10:5-8. There was a Christian church at Joppa, and it is possible that the believers met for worship in Dorcas’ home, which in those early days was the custom – look up Acts 12:12 and Romans 16:5.

Notice the significance of her name.

Verse 36 tells us that her name in Aramaic was Tabitha, but in Greek it was Dorcas, which means “antelope” or “gazelle” – a very graceful animal! One writer says that “her name stands in the Bible as the symbol of Naphtali (Genesis 49:21), the giver of goodly words; then as panting after the water brooks, seeking everything in God (Psalm 42:1); and as nimble of foot (2 Samuel 2:18); and so, leaping (Isaiah 35:6); expressive too of tender love (Proverbs 5:19); of beauty of form (Song of Solomon 2:9); and as fruitful through the voice of Jehovah (Psalm 29:9).” Ponder this! Our lives should be gazelle-like – graceful – look up Acts 4:33 and 11:23, and compare John 1:14.

Notice that Dorcas is spoken of as a disciple.

Look at verse 36 – “a disciple”. The name disciple was applied to the early followers of our Lord Jesus Christ, and any concordance will show how frequently it is used in the gospels and the Book of Acts. But what is a disciple? A learner. A disciple of Jesus is one who sits at His feet and learns of Him – look up Luke 10:38-42 and Matthew 11:29. In the way which the word was used, a disciple meant a Christian, as we learn from Acts 11:26 and many other references. But today there are many Christians who are not in the true, practical sense of the word disciples. To be a real disciple means to accept the Lord’s authority, His lordship, His discipline and to do His will. You are a believer – but are you a disciple?

Notice that Dorcas devoted her life to doing good deeds.

Verse 36 tells us that she “was always doing good and helping the poor.” She was a doer, not just a talker! And in verse 39 we are told about the particular ministry which occupied so much of her time – “she made robes and other clothing…” A needle is a very small thing, and the ability to use it is fairly common today, but here is a ministry that is most acceptable to the Lord and that has brought much comfort and relief to His children. Take note that Dorcas was a lady who was full of good works and here is a most needful lesson. No one can ever be saved by works, as we learn from Ephesians 2:8-9 and Titus 3:5; but the obligation of every saved person is to be like Dorcas, to do good works; look up Ephesians 2:10. Compare the following two faithful sayings: the first stresses that salvation is given to us apart from works, but the second emphasises that the result and evidence and the outflow of being saved is doing good works – look up 1 Timothy 1:15 and Titus 3:8. Read James 2:14-26, and especially notice the last verse. And a lady, the best adorning is mentioned in 1 Timothy 2:9-10. We all need to be Titus 2:14!

Notice the variety of ministries in operation in the work of the church.

When Dorcas died we read that:

Some of the women folk ministered by washing her body and laying it in an upper room – verse 37.
Two unnamed men ministered by going on an errand to Lydda to fetch Peter – verse 38.
Peter came and exercised a special ministry of faith and prayer – verses 39-41.
The widows also ministered – verse 39.

There is plenty of scope for willing workers in the church of God. Not all can do (1)…but all can be (2), God’s errand boys; and some of us can exercise more of (3)…and others can do (4). Look up 1 Corinthians 12:4-14 and Ephesians 4:11-12. God’s plan is not a “one man ministry”; it is an “all-at-it ministry” – a ministry in which every believer finds his allotted task and does it

Then Peter prayed the prayer of faith, and Dorcas was raised from the dead.

His approach to this whole situation is most instructive; it provides us with a lesson on how to seek the restoration of dead souls, of those who are “dead in transgressions and sins” – look up Ephesians 2:1.

Peter sent them all out of the room (verse 40). Only God could restore Dorcas, so Peter must be alone with Him.
Peter got down on his knees and prayed (verse 40). Reverence, sincerity, earnestness – the prayer of faith (James 5:13-18).
Peter spoke to Dorcas (verse 40). In seeking the restoration of souls we must testify (Job 22:29; Psalm 107:2).
Peter helped Dorcas and showed sympathy (verse 41). How needful this is if we would nurture the new converts!
Peter presented her alive (verse 41). What joy for Peter, for Dorcas and for the saints in Joppa! What joy for us when God blesses our ministry (Psalm 126:6)! What joy in Heaven over every dead soul raised to life – look up Luke 15:5; 8-10 and 23-24.

All that happened turned out for the glory of God in the extension of His kingdom.

Look at verse 42. Yes, many believed, so it was worthwhile for Dorcas to be ill, to die and to be raised again! The things which happened to her turned out for the furtherance of the gospel – look up Philippians 1:12.

CHAPTER7

APOLLOS: MIGHTY IN THE WORD

(Acts 18: 24 to 19:7)

All that we know of Apollos is recorded in Acts 18:24-28; 19:1; 1 Corinthians 1:11-12; 3:4-6; 16:12 and Titus 3:13. Apollos was a Jew (Acts 18:24). Alexandria was a city in Egypt, situated on the south-eastern shore of the Mediterranean, which was named after Alexander the Great who founded it. All that we are told about Apollos gives us ample material for our study, but there are several special lessons that will emerge.

Apollos was a man who possessed outstanding gifts.

We learn this from Acts 18:24-26, and we should notice the following:

He was a learned man. Evidently Apollos was a great orator, probably even greater than Paul – look up 2 Corinthians 10:10; and whenever he preached great crowds assembled to listen to him. This eloquence was a natural gift, which he had developed by experience and hard work.
He had a thorough knowledge of the scriptures. He was a master of the Old Testament scriptures, and he had a great gift of exposition – he had the knowledge, plus the power to express what he knew. In order to become “mighty in the scriptures” he must have constantly studied the Word, comparing scripture with scripture, as did the Bereans – look up Acts 17:11. The exhortation for ourselves is 2 Timothy 2:15!
He was instructed in the way of the Lord. This is a phrase which links us with John the Baptist – look up Luke 3:4 and 7:27. Apollos had come into contact with John the Baptist, or with some of John’s disciples, and he had been baptised and had also embraced his teaching. Apollos preached what John had preached years before. Are we “instructed in the way of the Lord”?
Apollos spoke with great fervour. His soul was on fire and his enthusiasm overflowed – look up and compare Matthew 12:34 last part! God needs holy enthusiasts. If folk can become so enthusiastic about their football, their music or their political views, should we not be “boiling”, (for that is what the word ‘fervent’ means), about the gospel and the things of the Lord? – look up Romans 12:11. Matthew Henry calls Apollos “a lively, affectionate preacher”. We need to catch his enthusiasm!
He was diligent, “careful” and “accurate”. So transcendent a theme as the gospel demands great diligence, care and accuracy of exposition on the part of its exponents. Beware of being slip-shod in doing God’s work. Always prepare and prosecute His work with prayer and care.
He taught only the things of the Lord. He kept to the Book. He preached the Word – no mere political discourses would fall from Apollos’ lips – look up 2 Timothy 4:2.
He was bold and courageous. He believed his message and he delivered it without fear or favour.

What a fine example of a preacher and worker Apollos was! And yet…

There was a very great lack in Apollos’ experience and in his ministry.

Like the twelve men in Acts 19:1-7, (who were probably his “converts”), and from Acts 18:25, we learn that Apollos knew “only the baptism of John”. John’s baptism was the baptism unto repentance – an act of confession and turning from sin which anticipated the coming of the Messiah. Apollos evidently had not heard that Messiah had come; that the Lord Jesus had lived and died upon Calvary’s cross, and had fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy (Isaiah 53:5-6); had risen, ascended and been exalted; and had poured forth the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. All this means that:

Apollos was not a Christian in the full New Testament sense of the word. A Christian is one who believes that the Lord Jesus Christ has come to earth and has died for him and who receives Him into his heart as his personal Saviour (John 1:12), and confesses Him publicly by word of mouth (Romans 10:9-10).
Apollos did not know the baptism of the Holy Spirit. He was not born again (John 3:3-5); a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17); or a member of His Body, the Church (1 Corinthians 12:13).
Apollos only preached part of the Truth. He had great academic qualities, and all that he said was true, but he lacked spiritual understanding and discernment (1 Corinthians 2:14), and power (Acts 1:8), and he did not preach the gospel. He was like many today! Consequently, his ministry lacked convicting and converting power.

Apollos was led into the full light of the gospel by two humble folk.

Read about it in Acts 18:26. These two dear souls detected a lack in this man’s ministry. They did not criticise him or speak to others about this lack, but they prayerfully sought to help, and God owned and blessed their efforts. How humble the great and eloquent Apollos was to listen and receive instruction from Aquila and Priscilla, who preached the gospel to him and led him into its full blessing!

Apollos was only able to help others up to the level of his own spiritual experience.

That is all any of us can do. How different Apollos’ ministry was after he himself was rejoicing in a present, powerful, living Saviour! Probably the twelve men in Acts 19:1-7 lacked a full understanding of the gospel, and the way of salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus, because they had followed Apollos.

Apollos reminds us of the great diversity of gifts in operation in the Church.

Look up 1 Corinthians 3:4-6 – “Paul planted…Apollos watered…”, and compare 1 Corinthians 12:4-11. We cannot all be planters, but we can all be waterers – watering the Lord’s vineyards with our prayers.

Apollos also reminds us that the servant is nothing and that God is everything.

Look up 1 Corinthians 3:6 – “Paul…Apollos…but God gave the increase” – compare 1 Corinthians 1:26-31.

We must always be careful to respect the decisions made by our fellow-believers.

We must not judge or criticise others if they believe they are in the Lord’s will. They are responsible to the Lord for their own actions, and we must respect their judgment – look up 1 Corinthians 16:12.

Final Note: Martin Luther was of the opinion that Apo

llos wrote the Epistle to the Hebrews!

MNASON: A MATURE DISCIPLE

(Acts 21: 15-16)

Mnason was evidently a native of Cyprus, and he lived near Jerusalem. He was a Hellenistic Jew, which means that he was a Jew by descent but he was born on Gentile soil and spoke the Greek language. The fact that he is described as “an early disciple” indicates that he was one of the early followers of our Lord, and this in turn suggests that he was getting on in years. Notice the following three things about Mnason:

How great a thing it is to be a disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ.

When it says that Mnason was “a disciple” it simply means that he was a Christian, a believer in our Lord. It is Luke’s way of saying that he was a born-again man – and yet we may make a distinction here, for it is possible to be a Christian and yet not (in the strict sense of the word) to be a disciple. A Christian is one who comes to Christ, as we learn from John 6:37; and who believes on Him, as we learn from Acts 16:31. But what is a disciple? A disciple, according to the meaning of the word is one who sits at His feet and learns of Christ, who follows on to know Him and who submits to His discipline. This should lead us to ask the question, not only: Am I a Christian? But: Am I a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ? Have I accepted His discipline, His authority, His lordship over my life, and am I learning of Him from day to day?

How great a thing it is to be a mature disciple, one who has not only come to know the Lord but who has known Him over a period of years.

Some say that getting older is a difficult experience, and certainly when we are young we have a fear of getting old. As the years slip by we are alarmed by the frequency of birthdays, for the years do not just slip by – they fly by! However, we are only as old as we feel, and we may be confident that it is the wrong philosophy for a Christian and a disciple to be afraid of old age. Undoubtedly there are great perils, privations and problems in connection with advancing years, but what are eighty or ninety years in the light of spending all eternity with the Lord, of being “in the house of the Lord for ever” (Psalm 23:6)? Think for a moment of the blessings and compensations of being “a mature disciple”.

A mature disciple has had a wonderful opportunity of getting to know the Lord and of growing in grace. This is a great benefit – look up and compare Daniel 11:32; John 14:9; Philippians 3:10 and 2 Peter 3:18. How great it is if as the years go by our confidence in God becomes stronger and our knowledge of Him becomes more intimate! We need to ask ourselves whether we are feeding on His word and having fellowship with Him, and whether we are growing in grace – look up Daniel 11:32.
A mature disciple has had the opportunity of proving the Lord in the school of experience over many years. Younger Christians have had far fewer such opportunities, but those who have served the Lord over many years can rise up and testify to the way in which He has helped them in times of sorrow and trouble. What testimonies they can give and what comfort they can bring to others! – look up 2 Corinthians 1:3-4. Older Christians are able to say – Psalm 37:25, and they are able to say it not only because God promises to provide for His children, but because they have proved it in their own experience.
A mature disciple is especially qualified to help and encourage others. Many who read these lines will remember with gratitude those who nurtured them in the things of the Lord. We need to say to all our young people today, “Honour the mature disciples in your churches; respect them, love them and go out of your way to help them; get to know them and do all you possibly can to break down any age barrier which exists between the young people and the old or older people”. After all, the children of God are all members of one family – look up Ephesians 3:15. Be kind and considerate, therefore, to the elderly; they can teach you so much, and you too, if the Lord spares you, will one day be “a mature disciple”!
A mature disciple is nearer to the Gloryland than the young disciple. This is not necessarily the case, but according to the law of averages the mature disciple is more likely to go to be with the Lord before the young disciple, unless, of course, the Lord returns first – in which case we shall all go together to be with Him (1 Corinthians 15:51-53 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). However, as we live from day to day, in a state of readiness should the Lord come for us or call us, we may rest upon His promise – look up Isaiah 46:4.

Thus, we see that there are special blessings attendant upon being a mature disciple; but there is one final thing which emerges from this reference to Mnason

What a glorious thing it is to be a mature disciple like this man Mnason.

In several respects he was a model of what an old disciple should be. For example:

He did what he could. As one who had known the Lord for some while and who was getting on in years there were certain things which he could not now do. Perhaps at one time he had been a preacher or an organiser, but possibly now the infirmities of age restricted his activities. However, there was one thing he could do; he had a home and he gave hospitality to God’s servants. Think what this meant to Paul, Luke and the other members of their party. Sometimes mature disciples are heard to say, “All I am able to do now is to pray.” When they say that then we should reply gently, “Is that all?” – for to pray behind the scenes and perhaps from a sick bed is to exercise the greatest ministry of all; or to give of one’s means for the support of missionaries and for the advancement of the gospel is a great ministry.
His mind was open and adaptable to new ideas and methods. Mnason welcomed the apostle Paul, and there is not the slightest doubt that there were those who looked upon Paul as an upstart, and to be associated with him meant that one had to be prepared for trouble. Paul was always “attacking on all fronts”, and Mnason might have said concerning his ministry, “We had no need for this kind of ministry in my young days. I don’t like these changes!” But his mind was flexible, and he could see that God was greatly using Paul, and therefore he was right behind him in prayer and love, and he gave hospitality to him. Is there a parallel to this today? Surely there is. Methods of evangelism have changed in many ways, and this makes it necessary for mature disciples to undergo a considerable amount of adjustment. How glorious it is when mature disciples are able to thank God for all that He is doing and to be enthusiastic in their support of “all means” which He is able to use for the building up of His Church and for the spread of His gospel – so long as the message is undiluted and the method is one which the Holy Ghost can bless – look up 1 Corinthians 9:19-23.

We can be quite sure that when the time came, Mnason was ready to go to be with his Lord and that he received His “Well done!” (Matthew 25:21).

PHOEBE: SHINING FOR JESUS

(Romans 16: 1-2)

This lady is mentioned in Romans chapter 16, which is a fascinating chapter containing some names which are very difficult to pronounce! Her name means, “The shining one”, and she certainly appears to have lived up to it. Not all those of whom Paul wrote were like Phoebe; for example, look up Romans 16:17 and Philippians 4:2! Some people can be a hindrance in the church; but others, like Phoebe – what a blessing they can be! There are two things to notice:

PAUL’S COMMAND TO THE CHURCH

Paul was writing to the church in Rome, and see what he said in verses 1and 2a. Phoebe almost certainly carried with her a letter of commendation from Paul, in which he asked the Christians in Rome to receive her. He mentioned three ways in which they were to do this, for there are different ways of receiving a person!

They were to receive her “in the Lord” (verse 2). This means that they were to receive her because, like them, she was “in the Lord”, that is, a believer. But it may also mean that they were to receive her as they would receive the Lord Himself. If the Lord Jesus came to your church or your home, how would you receive Him? – look up Luke 10:38.
They were to receive her “in a way worthy of the saints” (verse 2). That is, they were to receive her in a worthy manner; as believers should receive one another at all times – into their hearts, into their homes and into their churches.
They were also to “give her any help she may need” (verse 2). She would be a stranger in a strange city, and Paul wanted the believers in Rome to give her all the help she needed; indeed, he put his request very strongly – “.. to give her any help she may need from you.” She would actually need the help, comfort, guidance and support that they could give.

All this is very practical in its application to ourselves. Here is a picture of what is required in our churches, of real Christian friendship and fellowship, of the truth in Ephesians 4:25, that “we are all members of one body”. Paul was very concerned that Phoebe would be well received, loved and cared for, so he gave this lovely lady a special word of commendation, and thus gave the believers in Rome special reasons for receiving her.

PAUL’S COMMENDATION OF PHOEBE

The apostle commended Phoebe by mentioning three important things about her.

He described her as “our sister” (verse 1). This meant that she was in the family of God – look up Galatians 3:28; and that she was just as much the sister of the Christians in Rome as she was Paul’s sister – look up 1 Corinthians 12:12-14.
He described her as “a servant of the church…” (verse 1). She was an active member of the assembly of believers which met at Cenchrea. She was a servant, a deaconess who ministered to the saints; she was willing to do anything to further the gospel. How indebted our churches are to such godly women! God has a special place for them in His work; we should honour them and see that they have scope to exercise their special gifts.
He described Phoebe as “a great help to many people, including me” (verse 2). Someone who is a great help is one who goes to the aid of another to give encouragement and support. This means that she must have been gracious, kind, gentle, sincere and sympathetic. In some special and practical ways she had ministered to Paul, and this qualified her to exercise a similar ministry to the believers in the assembly to which she was going in Rome.

In concluding this study, consider some of the ways in which we may all emulate Phoebe.

By mothering the new converts. These were babes in Christ – look up 1 Peter 2:2; and just think what help new converts would need in Corinth of all places! – look up Acts 11:19-23. And what scope there is today for “Nurture Groups” and for individual believers to “foster” those newly saved.
By comforting the sorrowing. Maybe Phoebe was a widow, or perhaps she had never been married, but whichever way it was she was qualified to help and encourage others in their special circumstances. There are so many in our churches who are carrying heavy burdens – look up Galatians 6:2 and 10.
By helping the aged and the infirm. There are many such in our churches, and what great souls they are! But they are often over-looked and neglected; some need financial assistance, some are lonely, and others just need to be loved.
By the ministry of prayer. Do you have a prayer list? Many who are in the front line of gospel work are dependent upon those who, like Phoebe, pray for them – look up Ephesians 6:18-20. How about making a list right here of your six most wanted loved ones and friends – that is, the six for whose salvation from now on you will pray regularly?

MY MOST WANTED SIX

1.………………………………………

2…………………………….…………

3…………………………….…………

4…………………………….…………

5…………………………….…………

6…………………………….…………

Look up Jeremiah 33:3; John 14:13-14; 1 John 3:18-24 and 1 John 5:14-15.

By opening our home to the lonely and discouraged. Your home may be very small, or it may be large, but it could be a veritable heaven to some who feel lonely and perhaps even unwanted.

Phoebe: The Shining One! – the one who quietly and radiantly reflected the grace and the glory of the Lord – look up 2 Corinthians 3:18, and compare Psalm 34:5 which, literally translated, reads – “They looked unto Him, and became radiant….”

BEING; SURE OF ONE’S SALVATION

(1 John 5:1-21)

The purpose of this series of studies is twofold: First, to give practical help and instruction to young Christians, to those who have only just started in the Christian life; and, second, to offer definite Bible teaching to all Christians, and especially to show how we may “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), and “follow on to know the Lord” (Hosea 6:3, AV). As we proceed with these studies we shall see what a glorious, happy and triumphant experience it is to be a Christian and to be going on with the Lord; abiding in Him (John 15:4); confessing Him before others (Matthew 10:32-33); enjoying fellowship with Him and with His children (1 John 1:7; Hebrews 10:24-25); winning others to Him (John 1:41-42) and looking for His coming again (Hebrews 9:28).

The first essential if we are to progress in the Christian life is that we should be absolutely sure about our own salvation. It is not enough to be saved; we must know that we are saved. God’s will is that we should not only be safe, but that we should be sure that we are safe! He loves everybody (John 3:16; Romans 10:12-14), and He longs for all men to be saved (2 Peter 3:9). He also desires that all who are His should know it – compare John 20:31 and 1 John 5:13. The fact is, however, that many Christians have no assurance of their salvation. This lack of assurance is most unsatisfactory, for the following reasons:-

Unless we are sure of our own salvation: (1) our TESTIMONY will be stifled (Psalm 107:2); (2) our SERVICE will be stunted (Daniel 11:32); (3) we shall not GROW spiritually (Ephesians 4:15); (4) we shall LACK peace, joy, confidence and power with God and with men (2 Timothy 1:12).

The world and the professing Christian think it is a great presumption for anyone to say that they know they are saved! But listen to Job (Job 19:25-27); to Paul (Romans 5:1; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Timothy 1:12); to Peter (1 Peter 1:3-8) and to John (1 John 2:12; 3:14). The early Christians certainly had no doubts about their salvation, and if we are saved we should have no doubts concerning ours.

Now, the one condition of salvation is faith in the Person and the work of the Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Romans 1:16; Acts 16:30-31). It is by believing that we are saved. Here are three reasons why I, as a believer, know for certain that I am saved:-

HIS WORK FOR ME MAKES ME SURE

Our salvation depends entirely upon what the Lord Jesus has done for us. It is not DO, but DONE.

Upon a life I did not live,

Upon a death I did not die,

Another’s life, Another’s death,

I stake my whole eternity.

Our feelings may and will change, but the fact that He in whom we are trusting has once and for all shed His blood to redeem and to save us, is an accomplished fact, and that fact can never alter or change – look up Hebrews 9:28. Upon the cross of Calvary, the Lord Jesus in His death fulfilled all the requirements of the broken law for those who believed on Him, and therefore the law can now have no claim on them whatsoever. As believers, we have already passed out of death into life and we shall never come into condemnation (John 5:24). In Exodus 12:13, the Lord said, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” The same is true today. I know I am saved because the blood has been shed, and my deliverance from God’s righteous judgment is therefore absolutely certain (1 Peter 1:18-19). As I gaze by faith at the wounds of my Saviour (John 20:20-21) and trust in His atoning blood, I know that I am every bit as safe in Christ as the Israelites were in their homes when, by a simple act of faith on their part, the blood had been struck on the door posts – look up Exodus 12:7 and Romans 8:1.

HIS WORD TO ME MAKES ME SURE

The family dwelling in a home in Egypt which was sheltered by the blood would have had absolute assurance that all would be well, because God had said, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” It was not presumption on their part to know that all would be well; they were simply resting in calm assurance upon the promise of God. It would have been a great presumption had they doubted the word that God had spoken! The blood of Christ makes us safe; the Word of God makes us sure. We may be absolutely sure of our salvation because we have God’s word, which cannot be broken. For example: John 3:16; 3:36; 5:24; 10:9; Romans 10:9; 1 John 5:11-12. Which is the greater presumption – to believe what God says, or to doubt what God says

HIS WITNESS IN ME MAKES ME SURE

This witness is two-fold. First, there is the witness of the Holy Spirit. The moment we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and accept Him as our own personal Saviour, the Holy Spirit enters our hearts to abide there for ever – look up Romans 8:16; Galatians 4:6; 1 John 4:13. How wonderful is this inward assurance of the Holy Spirit!

Second, there is the witness of a changed life – look up 2 Corinthians 5:17, and compare John 9:25. When we find that the things we used to hate we now love, and the things we used to love we now hate, we can be quite sure that the miracle of regeneration has taken place.

Are you saved? If so, be sure of it! If not, make sure by receiving the Lord Jesus as your own personal Saviour now (John 1:12).

CONFESSING THE LORD BEFORE OTHERS

(Romans 10:1-17)

There must be many true Christians, who love the Lord Jesus and desire to honour Him, who fail to experience fulness of blessing in the Christian life. Why is this? One reason is because they are not confessing their Saviour and Lord. For example, they confess Him by life and not by lip, at home but not at work, before other Christians but not before the world. It’s easy to be like Joseph of Arimathaea – “a disciple of Jesus, but secretly…”! – look up John 19:38, and compare John 7:13; 12:42 and Proverbs 29:25. Are you a secret disciple?

The key-verse of this study is Matthew 10:32, and it is important to notice that these are the words of the Lord Jesus – “Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven.” The Authorised Version has the words, “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in Heaven.” What a wonderful promise verse 32 is, but it places a responsibility upon us. Surely we should count it the greatest possible privilege to confess Him, our Saviour, Friend and Lord, before men? Notice, we are not to confess ourselves, our particular church, our denominational link, or simply “the Almighty”; we are to confess the Lord Jesus Christ – look up Romans 10:9; 1 Corinthians 12:3. To confess the Lord Jesus before others means:

“To profess faith in Him as my own personal Saviour and Lord, and openly to identify myself with Him, as a believer in Him, as His disciple and as His servant.”

WHY SHOULD WE CONFESS THE LORD JESUS BEFORE OTHERS?

The Plan of Salvation includes open confession. This is made very clear from Romans 10:9-10. Confession is the evidence of true heart belief. When one really believes, and receives the Lord Jesus (John 1:12), then open confession of Him and of one’s faith in Him must and will follow. In God’s plan of salvation, confession with the mouth is linked with believing in the heart.
The Lord of the Harvest expects open confession. The spread of the gospel depends, not upon ministers, evangelists, missionaries, etc., but upon the individual believer, and every believer, openly confessing Christ. This is the divine plan for world evangelisation, as we learn from Acts 8:1. (Notice the words “except the apostles” – and compare Acts 8:4).
The Day of Judgment requires open confession. Study Matthew 10:32-33 carefully. If we would be confessed by Him before the Father, we must, by His grace, confess Him before men. This is solemn, but, as we have noticed, these are the words of the Lord Jesus Himself.
The Sacrifice of Calvary demands open confession. He loved us so much that He was willing to go to the cross of Calvary for us – “bearing shame and scoffing rude” – and in order that He might bear “our sins in his body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24). He died openly for us; are we content, and can we live, secretly for Him? He was not ashamed of us; are we ashamed of Him? – look up Hebrews 2:11.
The example of Jesus evokes open confession. In 1 Timothy 6:13, we are told that the Lord Jesus witnessed a good confession before Pontius Pilate. His whole life was a declaration of His Person and of what He had come to do. We are His disciples, and it is our highest privilege and our responsibility to identify ourselves with Him openly – look up Luke 6:40, AV.

HOW SHOULD WE CONFESS THE LORD JESUS BEFORE OTHERS

Every Christian should start the Christian life by a definitely open confession of the Lord Jesus before others. Immediately after believing there should be a definite open confession of faith in Christ. This should be by word of mouth (Matthew 10:32; Mark 5:19; Romans 10:9-10); by taking an open stand on the Lord’s side (Exodus 32:26); and by a changed life – look up John 9:11 and Acts 4:14.
Every Christian should constantly confess the Lord Jesus before others by word of mouth. That is to say, Christians should not only confess the Lord Jesus at the start of the Christian life, but they should go on doing so – look up Acts 1:8; 5:42 – and Acts 8:4, where the word “preached” means “gossiped”. Alas, how often we are ashamed of Him! How unworthy and how sinful our silence is! Many who worship “false gods” and who are caught up in false systems of religion are ready at all times to speak of their “faith” – and what a challenge this is to those of us who know the true God (John 17:3)!
Every Christian should confess the Lord Jesus before others by baptism. This is a New Testament emphasis which we are making, and not a denominational emphasis. In the Acts, all who believed were baptised. Look up the following references and notice that in every case belief was followed by baptism, and baptism was only administered after believing – Acts 2:38 and 41; 8:12, 35-39; 9:17-18; 10:45 and 48; 16:14-15, 30-34 and 18:8.
Every Christian should confess the Lord Jesus before others by a quiet, consistent Christian life. That is, by what we are and by what we do; and by what we are not and by the things we do not The most powerful confession of Christ and testimony for Him is that of a true, Spirit-filled life – in the home, office, factory, shop, hospital – at work and at play! Look up Matthew 5:16, and notice the word “see”; also 1 Peter 3:1-4.
Every Christian should confess the Lord Jesus before others by definite association with God’s people in worship and in service. Look up Hebrews 10:25! The very fact of going to church is a confession of Christ before men, and there are dozens of ways of serving Him, and thus of confessing Him.

What is our enabling? “No one can say (by life or by lip) that Jesus is Lord, except by the Holy Spirit” – 1 Corinthians 12:3.

EVERY CHRISTIAN’S GREATES NEED

(John 14:15-18 and 25-26; 16:1-15)

Every Christian’s greatest need is to enter into the secret of a victorious life and of power in service. The secret is found in Ephesians 5:18: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead be filled with the Spirit.” When we become Christians and are born again, we receive the Holy Spirit (John 3:3-8; Romans 8:9); we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16); we are baptised with the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13); we are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). But, having received the Holy Spirit, our need is to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Carefully consider the following references in the Book of Acts 2:4; 4:8 and 31; 6:3; 7:55; 9:17; 11:23-24 and 13:9. There are so many angles from which we can approach this study, but here are five progressive truths about the Spirit-filled life.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is to be possessed, controlled and dominated by the Holy Spirit.

Perhaps you have wondered why in Ephesians 5:18 the apostle Paul contrasts drunkenness with being filled with the Spirit; man’s most debasing vice with God’s greatest provision? The Ephesians would know what Paul had in his mind, for it was a pagan belief that God dwelt in the blood of the grape, and that therefore the more wine a man drank and the more he became possessed or intoxicated with that wine, the more he would become possessed of his god. Paul is therefore telling the Ephesians that whereas at one time they thought that by becoming drunk they were becoming god-possessed, now they must become intoxicated and become truly God-possessed – Spirit-filled. They were not to be filled with the wine from some earthly vineyard, but they were to be filled with the Holy Spirit who had been sent from heaven (Acts 2:4). To be filled with the Holy Spirit, then, means to give Him full control of our lives; it means that the human personality becomes controlled by the divine personality. In Luke 5:26, John 2:7, 16:6, Acts 5:3 and Ephesians 3:19, we have examples of the use of the word “filled”. Look up these references and you will see that the word “filled” means to “grip”, “possess”, “control”. The divine personality does not obliterate the human personality, but rather He possesses, controls and energises it that it may fully function to His glory. To be filled with the Holy Spirit, then, means that He takes full possession of our body (Romans 6:13; 12:1), our mind (Philippians 2:5), and our spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is God’s provision for every Christian from the moment of conversion.

Many new converts do not realise this and do not enter into a life of the Holy Spirit’s fulness at the time of their conversion. In some cases, due to lack of instruction, they never understand or enjoy this wonderful provision which God has made for every one of His children. Think of this. The Christian is a reincarnation of Christ - he is one in whom the life of the risen Lord Jesus Christ is being reproduced. How is His life reproduced in us? By the Holy Spirit. His desire for us is not simply life, but abundance, fulness of life – look up John 10:10, and the way to experience John 10:10 is by Ephesians 5:18! We look upon the Spirit-filled life as the abnormal life meant only for a few of God’s children, but God’s plan is that it should be the normal life of every one of His children. It is not a luxury and it is not optional. It is a necessity, and therefore God presents it to us in the terms of a command (Ephesians 5:18).

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is the secret of victorious living and fruitful service.

Will you pause and do a little honest, heart-searching before the Lord? What is the reason for all the weakness, fruitlessness, faithlessness and failure in our spiritual experience? Why are our lives so much less than we expected them to be and that God desires them to be? Why is so much of our service ineffective and producing so little fruit? There is only one answer: we are not filled with the Holy Spirit.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is not a once-and-for-all experience never to be repeated.

It is important for us to be clear about this in order that disappointment and defeat may be avoided. There is an initial infilling with the Holy Spirit, which may take place at conversion but which often takes place subsequently to conversion, but this infilling of the Holy Spirit must be constantly repeated. Some of the same disciples who were filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:4 were again filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 4:31. The tense of Ephesians 5:18 is present continuous, and the literal rendering of the last part of that verse is, “by being filled with the Spirit”. We may grieve the Holy Spirit and lose, not His presence, but His filling – look up Ephesians 4:30, and when this happens we need to be filled again.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit requires the fulfilling of certain definite conditions.

There must be REALITY, sincerity, earnestness, seriousness.
REPENTANCE comes next. This includes confession, turning from all known sin, and cleansing (Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9).
RESTITUTION may be necessary. So far as it is within our power, wrongs must be put right (Luke 19:8).
There must be a RECEIVING of the Holy Spirit, not of His presence, for if we are Christians He is already within us, indwelling us, but of His infilling, to possess us. We may ask for this infilling – look up Luke 11:13.
Having asked that God will graciously fill us with His Spirit, we must dare to believe that our prayer is not only heard, but answered (1 John 5:14-15).

THE KIND OF CHURCH TO JOIN

(Acts 2: 41-47; Hebrews 10: 19-25)

There are many believers who do not link up with a church, and they can lose out spiritually. Some have good reasons for not joining a church; others may have quite feeble excuses. Some Christians experience genuine difficulty in finding a God-honouring ministry – a Bible church where they could feel at home. Can a believer join a liberal or a worldly church (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)? There are Christians who, due to the nature of their work, find it difficult to worship regularly. But it is still wise to join a church and to have a spiritual home. Again, some Christians feel they are not good enough to join a church. But the church is meant for sinners – saved sinners – and if belonging was only given to those who felt good enough, no one would join! Then there are those who are looking for the perfect church! They haven’t yet found anywhere good enough for them. It’s a form of spiritual pride. There are others who once belonged to a church, but through some unfortunate experience they left, whilst a great many do not want to be ‘involved’ or serve in the local church.

It is important to make clear the difference between the Church and a church. The Church is that great invisible, universal living organism consisting of every born again person (Ephesians 1:22-23); a church is the visible, local assembly of people who call themselves Christians (Romans 16:5; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 16:19; Galatians 1:2; Colossians 4:15; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; Revelation 1:11). Every believer belongs to the Church, even if he does not belong to a church, and Acts 2:47 refers to the close bond of believers with whom we should link up. Here are some suggestions as to the kind of church to join.

A church where there is found a true spirit of Christian worship and fellowship and a sphere for Christian service.

These are our three needs: worship – look up John 4:23-24; fellowship – look up Malachi 3:16 and Hebrews 10:25; and service – look up 1 Thessalonians 1:9. Seek an assembly of God’s people where you feel “at home” in worshipping the Lord, in fellowship with His people and in service for Him.

A church where membership is not made too easy.

Not, of course, that there should ever be an exclusive spirit in a church. On the other hand, you will wish to join a church where the minister and the members require to know that you are really born again (John 3:5), and are seeking by the grace of God to live a consistent Christian life (Ephesians 5:15). God is glorified when a church sets a high standard for membership.

A church which makes much of the Bible and stands wholeheartedly for “the whole will of God.”

We are living in days of apostasy (2 Timothy 3:1; Jude 4) – days when there is a great departure from the truth. The true Christian, therefore, will desire to join a church which stands for the full inspiration and authority of the whole Bible (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21), and which honours the Person and the work of our Lord Jesus Christ: His full deity (John 20:28), His perfect humanity (1 Timothy 2:5), His virgin birth (Matthew 1:18), the infallibility of his teaching (John 5: 22-23), the reality of His miracles (John 20: 30-31), the substitutionary nature of His death (Isaiah 53:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21), His bodily resurrection (John 20:27), His glorious ascension (Luke 24:50-51), His present exaltation (Acts 5:31) and His second advent (Acts 1:9-11). Avoid being a heresy hunter; but whatever you do, do not join any church which does not stand for and proclaim the whole will of God (Acts 20:27).

A church which is separate from all secular and worldly methods and movements and organisations which are disloyal to the Bible.

It is not the business of a church to run a big social programme in which place is given, time is spent and money is expended on worldly entertainments. None of these come within the scope of the work of the church. Read the Book of Acts and see for yourself. The programme of the church must be in every respect honouring to the Holy Spirit – look up Acts 15:28.

A church which emphasises the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the vital power of prayer.

Acts 9:31 gives us a picture of a model church, and wherever a church emphasises the need for prayer, you can be certain that that church is out to honour the Holy Spirit. That is the kind of church to join – the prayer-meeting church! – look up and compare Acts 1:13-14; 3:1; 4:23-31 and 12:5.

A church which is not only evangelical but evangelistic.

That is, a church which is not only sound, (because you can be sound yet sound asleep), but sound in belief and at the same time reaching out in its ministry to those who are lost. We must not only hold “firmly to” the faithful Word (Titus 1:9), but we must hold “out” the Word of life (Philippians 2:16). Some churches are evangelically sound, but they are evangelistically dead.

A church which is Christ-centred and not denominationally-centred or ecumenically-associated.

To join a church will mean linking up with one denomination or another, or one assembly or another; but remember, it is the local assembly of God’s people with whom you are linking up, and in that assembly there must never be an over-emphasis on denominationalism, which only leads to the “I am of Paul” or “I am of Apollos” spirit (1 Corinthians 3:4-7), which is carnal, sectarian and sad in the extreme. On the matter of ecumenism, true believers have this already; it does not need to be organised or “joined” – look up Galatians 3:27-28; but there is an organised ecumenism which must at all costs be avoided and denounced – look up 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 and Jude 3.

When you come to think of it, the kind of church which we have outlined above is only a New Testament church after all!

THE SUPREME IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER

(Luke 11: 1-13; 18: 1-8)

To the born again soul, prayer is as essential as breathing, and to neglect it must result in weakness and defeat. It is not only important that Christians should pray, but it is of supreme importance. This fact makes our present study one to which we should give special heed. Christians need instruction about prayer – its meaning, its promises, its method and its value – look up Luke 11:1. How wonderful to be taught to pray by John; how much more wonderful to be taught by the Lord Jesus! – and look up Romans 8:26-27.

What is prayer? C. H. Spurgeon said, “The heart of prayer is the prayer of the heart.” It does not consist simply of words or forms or eloquence. “Prayer is the address of a poor creature on earth to a great Creator and loving Father in Heaven.” Think about this definition; it reveals the wonder of prayer that a poor sinful being can commune with the high and lofty One (Isaiah 57:15).

THE SUPREME IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER IN THE LIFE OF THE CHRISTIAN

Prayer is of supreme importance in the life of the Christian because of the importance it is given in the Word of God. The Bible is full of the subject of prayer. Imagine what a mutilated book we should have if every reference to prayer were taken out of it. The fact of the emphasis on this subject of prayer which is made in the Word of God indicates to us the supreme importance placed upon it by the Holy Spirit who is the Author of the book (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21).
Prayer is of supreme importance in the life of the Christian because of the teaching of our Lord. Here again, imagine the four Gospels with every reference to prayer cut out of them. How mutilated the books would be! Over and over again our blessed Lord stressed the importance of prayer, gave wonderful promises in relation to prayer and encouraged His disciples (and us) to pray – look up Matthew 18:19, 21:22; Mark 11:24 and John 14:13-14. He, in fact, is our great example in prayer – look up Luke 3:21; 5:16; 6:12; 9:18 and 28; 11:1 and 22:41-42.
Prayer is of supreme importance in the life of the Christian because it is the first instinct of the new life. Just as the first instinct of a newly-born babe is to cry, and in so doing to use its lungs, so the first instinct of the newly-converted soul is to cry – look up Romans 8:15, and notice the illustration of this simple truth in Acts 9:11, where we read of Saul, immediately after his vision of the ascended Lord, praying.
Prayer is of supreme importance in the life of the Christian because it is the Christian’s vital breath. The Christian life is a new life – His life, the life of the risen Lord Jesus implanted in us by the Holy Spirit – look up 1 John 5:13-14. This new life can only be sustained by prayer, and only by prayer can we develop into robust, healthy Christians; without prayer we shall be lifeless and ineffective. This means that we should pray privately (Matthew 6:6), frequently (Psalm 55:17), regularly (Daniel 6:10); in times of trouble (Psalm 50:15) – in fact, without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Prayer is of supreme importance in the life of the Christian because it is such a glorious privilege to pray. The Christian life is full of privileges, but can you imagine a greater one than to enter into the holiest of all, into the throne room of the King, and to bow in humble worship at His feet, to speak with Him face to face and as friend with friend? How great is this privilege! – look up Hebrews 4:14-16 and 10:19-22.
Prayer is of supreme importance in the life of the Christian because of all it can accomplish in supplying every need. It is perfectly true that “more things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of”, but think of the wonderful accounts of the power of prayer which have been recorded for us in the Word of God. How many can you enumerate? In the light of these, is it not amazing that we do not pray more? For the believer, prayer is the divine method for supplying every need – look up Philippians 4:19; and the reason we do not have is because we do not ask – look up James 4:2. If only we would ask, we would receive – look up Luke 11:9-10. What is it you need? Money? A house? Food? Employment? The salvation of some loved one? Then ask!
Prayer is of supreme importance in the life of the Christian because only through prayer can God’s will be accomplished. His working depends upon our asking – look up James 5:17. He waits to yield to our pleas – look up Ezekiel 36:37. This is how he has ordained it. The purpose of prayer is not to make God alter His will, but to provide Him with a channel through which He may accomplish His will.

THE SUPREME IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER IN THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH

It is only necessary to read the Book of Acts, which contains the inspired history of the early Church, to become convinced that the ministry of prayer was foremost in the life and the service of the Church. The Church was born in a prayer meeting, as we discover by comparing Acts 1:13-14 and 2:1-4. These early believers also attended the regular prayer meetings in the temple – look up Acts 3:1; moreover, in times of special testings they held special times of prayer – look up Acts 4:23-31; 12:1,5,12 and 17, and 16:25. They believed that prayer was a priority matter – look up Acts 6:4, and they prayed when they longed that Matthew 9:38 should be fulfilled – look up Acts 13:1-4. Yes, and when they said farewell they prayed – look up Acts 20:36. Years ago, Dr Reuben Archer Torrey said,

“Prayer is the key that unlocks all the storehouses of God’s infinite grace and power. All that God is, and all that God has, is at the disposal of the pray-er. But we must use the key. Prayer can do anything that God can do, and as God can do anything, prayer is omnipotent.”

May we prove it in our own lives and in the life of the Church

THE WONDER OF GOD’S GUIDANCE

(Psalm 25: 1-22)

Many times we find the subject of God’s guidance in the Word of God. In the Old and New Testaments we have wonderful promises of guidance and examples of those who sought and found the Lord’s will for their lives. We also have a number of very clear statements which show us our need of guidance; for example, Jeremiah 10:23. In the psalm which we have chosen for the scripture portion you will notice that the psalmist assumes the need for guidance, and none of us would question the fact that God’s people do need guiding. They need to pray. “Show me your ways…Teach me…Guide me…” (Psalm 25:4,5,9). For examples of God’s guidance in the lives of His people we think of Abraham going out of his native country not knowing where he was going, being wholly dependent upon the guidance of God (Genesis 12:1); of Moses and the children of Israel being led by the pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22); and of Joshua (Joshua 1:6-9). In the New Testament, one of the most striking examples is that of Philip, who was guided of the Lord to leave Samaria and to win the eunuch to Christ (Acts 8:5 and 26). These examples establish the fact that God does guide His people. Let us think of the Nature of God’s guidance and of the Method of God’s guidance.

THE NATURE OF GOD’S GUIDANCE

God’s guidance is DIVINE guidance. We need to stress this in order to emphasise its quality. There can be no possibility of a mistake in the guidance which God gives His children. The secret of divine guidance is the Guide (Psalm 16:11).
It is CLEAR guidance. The psalmist prayed to be led in a straight path (Psalm 27:11), and the Lord’s promise to us is Proverbs 3:6 – also look up Isaiah 35:8. The Lord is always more anxious than we are that we should be absolutely clear as to His will (Psalm 25:12).
God’s guidance is CONTINUAL guidance. (Psalm 48:14; 73:24; Isaiah 58:11). His guidance is for the whole life, until the Lord comes or we go to be with Him.
It is GRADUAL guidance. (Psalm 37:23). A step at a time and a stop at a time; a moment by moment experience of His leading of which we may be conscious, but of which we are more often unconscious.
His guidance is sometimes STRANGE to us. An example of this is found in Exodus 13:18. The natural caravan route was along the sea coast to Gaza, a comparatively short distance; by way of Sinai the route was very much longer. God led His children by the long way round, and He often does this for our discipline and training. God’s greatest concern for you and for me is the moulding of our character (Deuteronomy 8:2-3).
It is INDIVIDUAL guidance. It does not come to two people alike. He guided the wise men by a star, but we have no record of His guiding anyone else in this way. He has a specific purpose for each one of His children, and therefore His guidance is adapted to each individual need – look up Acts 9:6.
It is COMPREHENSIVE guidance. That is, He is willing to guide us concerning every detail, great and small, which has to do with our life down here. No matter is too small, and certainly no matter is too great for us to bring to Him in order that we may know His will concerning it – look up Ephesians 5:17.

How wonderful it is that God condescends to guide His children! How frequently we must have missed His guidance! How earnestly He desires us to travel in the pathway of His choosing! What is the Method by which He guides us?

THE METHOD OF GOD’S GUIDANCE

First, by His WORD. The Bible is our guide book for the whole of our earthly life until we are received into glory (Psalm 73:24). It is a lamp and a light (Psalm 119:105). Through His Word the Lord guides us:
By clear directions.g. Should a Christian marry an unbeliever? We have the clear answer to this in 2 Corinthians 6:14.
By general principles. There are some matters concerning which the Word of God has nothing specific in the form of any clear direction to say about these things, but there are very clear principles laid down which show us how the Lord would have us act – look up John 7:17.
By warning us of false ways. All the way through the Bible there are warning notes to which we must at all costs give heed – and remember, He will never guide us to take any step which is contrary to His Word.
He guides us by His SPIRIT. Have a careful look at Nehemiah 9:19-20. How wonderfully God guides us by His Holy Spirit (John 16:13), sometimes by constraining us (Acts 10:19-20), and at other times by restraining us (Acts 16:7), by an inward urge which may be difficult to describe but which is unmistakable when it is experienced!
He guides us by His EYE. We learn this from Psalm 32:8. In the olden days the host at a feast would sit at the head of the table entertaining his guests. His servants would stand nearby, watching his every movement, and the host would direct them with his eye. How necessary it is to keep looking to Him if we are to receive His guidance! – look up Hebrews 12:2.
He guides us by His SERVANTS. He guides us by the wise counsel of trusted friends (Proverbs 11:14), and there are times when it is helpful to confer with wise counsellors (Galatians 1:16).
He guides us by His PROVIDENCES. Suddenly He sets before us an open door (Revelation 3:8), or we hear a voice behind us – look up Isaiah 30:21.

Notice two concluding things: (1) If God guides us in the five ways mentioned above, we must: (a) be familiar with His Word; (b) live in subjection to His Spirit; (c) keep our eye upon Him; (d) cultivate the right kind of friends; (e) watch for His providential workings. (2) We may be sure of God’s guidance when each of these five lines along which He guides harmonise and point in the same direction.

A LESSON IN STEWARDSHIP

(Scripture Portion: 2 Corinthians, Chapters 8 and 9)

The key verses for this study are Proverbs 3:9-10 - “Honour the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” Here we find a precept and a promise placed side by side. As Christians, we are to honour the Lord, not only in our hearts, homes and businesses, but with regard to our money – look up Matthew 6:33. We belong to the Lord by creation (Ezekiel 18:4), and by redemption (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). All that we possess belongs to Him (Deuteronomy 8:18; 1 Chronicles 29:11-14; Hosea 2:8; 1 Corinthians 4:7), so that strictly speaking it is wrong to speak of our possessions as “ours” or “mine”. If we belong to Him, all our possessions belong to Him.

It is very significant that the converts at Pentecost were not only added to the church and baptised, they did not only continue in prayers and in breaking of bread, etc., but the question of their money came under vital consideration – look up Acts 2:44-45. True conversion should touch not only the heart but the pocket. Yet there must be many Christians who are not surrendered to the Lord on the money question. They are robbing God (Malachi 3:8-11), and consequently they are poor spiritually, and in some measure, temporally too, for God always blesses the liberal soul (Proverbs 11:25). Here are two simple propositions upon which we shall base our consideration of this theme.

FIRST PROPOSITION: The Bible teaches that every Christian should give a fixed portion of his or her income to the Lord, and that this should be done as a first claim, regularly, systematically, proportionately and thankfully.

SECOND PROPOSITION: The Bible also teaches that where Christians honour the Lord with their substance, the Lord prospers them both spiritually and temporally because they have thus honoured Him.

Let us consider the first proposition stage by stage.

This is something the Bible teaches. We are not outlining man’s method or idea. As far back as Genesis 14:20 and 28:22 we read of Abraham and of Jacob honouring the Lord with their substance, and we know that God was pleased with their action. In Leviticus 27:30, God commanded the Jew to tithe, and in many references in the Word of God it is made quite clear that it is God’s will that every one of His children should give back to Him a fixed portion of his or her income, to be used as He directs and for His glory – look up Deuteronomy 26:12; Proverbs 3:9; Malachi 3:8-11; 1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; 9:1-15; Philippians 4:10-20.
This matter touches every Christian. It does not refer to just a few Christians, but to all Christians. Notice the first two words in 2 Corinthians 9:7. The rich man is to give of his substance to the Lord, and the poor widow can also give of her substance (Mark 12:42).
We should give a fixed portion of our income (1 Corinthians 16:2). We may decide to give one-twentieth, one-tenth, one-fifth or one-half; and the portion we give should be out of all our income, which includes our regular salary or wage, bonuses, special gifts, etc.
Our giving is to the Lord. This is important. Primarily we do not give to His people or to His work, but to Him. The channel through which we give to Him may be our local church or assembly or a missionary society, but once we realise that our giving is to Him then our giving will be sanctified and each act of giving will become an act of worship. Our giving will also become sacrificial – look up 2 Samuel 24:24.
All this is to be done regularly. Look up 1 Corinthians 16:2, and think what it would mean if every Christian did this. There would be no lack of funds in church work, for the training of missionary candidates, for the supply of copies of the Word of God for free distribution, or for the support of foreign missions, etc.
God wants us to be practical in our giving. It is a good plan to keep a purse, a box or a bag into which the Lord’s portion may be regularly placed; or a bank account can be opened and at regular intervals amounts may be placed into this to be used for His work.

Here is a suggestion. Buy a small cash book and on one side of the page record all that you receive; on the other side record all that is given to the Lord’s work. In this way it will be easy to see whether you are giving to Him the portion that you have decided upon. You are the Lord’s steward, so be a wise, careful steward and be systematic in the matter of your giving (1 Corinthians 4:2)

That is, our giving is to be based upon our receiving. Those who receive less will give less – look up 1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8:12 and 9:7, and you will see that a Christian is to “set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income”…”according to what one has, not according to what he does not have”…”what he has decided in his heart.” The proportion we give is something we must decide before the Lord, but the minimum that the Jew was required to give was one-tenth.
God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7), and in the two chapters which give us the New Testament teaching on giving, strong motives are given for our giving – look up 2 Corinthians 8:9 and 9:15.

Let us conclude by considering the second proposition.

We would expect God to bless His children spiritually in response to their giving to Him, and of course He does this; but in addition, He promises to bless them temporally. We must never give to Him in order to get from Him, but as we give we shall receive, and the measure of our receiving will be in proportion to our giving. Let the following scriptures speak to you – Proverbs 3:9-10; 11:24-25; Malachi 3:10-11; Matthew 6:33; Luke 6:38 and 2 Corinthians 9:6-8.

CHAPTER 8 WINNING THE LOST TO THE SAVIOUR

(Acts 8: 1-8 and 26-40)

The title of this study was not chosen at random. You will notice that it contains three very important words, and it is around these three words that we shall introduce the three divisions of our theme. We shall consider the great matter of soul-winning, its importance and the responsibility of every Christian to be a soul-winner, and the methods we are to adopt.

First of all, let us think of the word “SAVIOUR”

Of all the names given to our blessed Lord, surely this is the most precious. It was given by divine announcement (Matthew 1:21), and Mary, the mother of Jesus, spoke of the One who was to come as “my Saviour” (Luke 1:47). Our Lord Jesus Himself made it perfectly clear that the primary purpose of His advent, crucifixion, resurrection and ascension was the salvation of men and women. Let us be absolutely sure about the fact that the one supreme purpose of His coming from heaven to earth was to save the lost (Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 1:15; Hebrews 7:25). He did not come primarily to be our teacher, our reformer or our example – or even to be our king. He came to win lost sinners to Himself – to save the lost. In the Gospels we have vivid pictures of Him doing this work, and for two thousand years He has not ceased to do it.

He is the UNIVERSAL Saviour; that is, He is the Saviour of all men (John 1:29; 3:16; 10:9 and 16; Romans 10:12-13). He is the Saviour whom everyone, everywhere, needs – look up Acts 16:30-31.
He is the ONLY Saviour; that is, there is none other (Isaiah 45:22; John 10:9; 14:6; Acts 4:12).
He is the PERFECT Saviour; that is, no case is too hard for Him (Hebrews 7:25).

Now let us think of the word “LOST”

Why was it necessary for the Saviour to come? Because apart from Him all men are lost. This solemn word “lost” describes the deep spiritual need of mankind, the need of everyone, everywhere, who has never been saved by Jesus Christ. It is our Lord’s description. In Luke 15 the sheep was lost, the silver was lost and the son was lost – look up and compare Matthew 18:11. To be lost is to be perishing (John 3:16), under condemnation (John 3:18), under the wrath of God (John 3:36), spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1), and bound for a Christ-less eternity (Matthew 13:49-50). How great and how urgent is the need of every lost one!

Finally, let us think of the word “WINNING”

The supreme passion in the heart of the Saviour is the winning of the lost. The supreme need of every lost soul is to be won to the Saviour. Now notice this: the winning of the lost to the Saviour is to be the supreme business of every Christian. Notice, the supreme business of every Christian – look up Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 1:17 and Acts 1:8, and notice that all these references apply to each one of us just as much as to those who originally heard these words. Every Christian is to be a soul-winner. This is the Lord’s purpose, plan and programme for world evangelisation.

Here are seven simple secrets for successful soul-winning.

Recognise that winning the lost to the Saviour is your life work. Think this out carefully and prayerfully. Whoever you are, however young or old, whatever your circumstances, you are to be about your Father’s business (Luke 2:49; John 20:21), constantly following your Saviour so that He may make you a fisher of men.
Place yourself at the disposal of your Lord for this great work. Get alone with Him – not once, but every day – and hear Him saying to you – Mark 1:17; and in response, say to Him, “Here I am, Lord, at your disposal. Make me a fisher of men!” Philip was at the Lord’s disposal, and when he was in the midst of a revival at Samaria and the Lord called him away to go into the desert to win the Ethiopian eunuch, he was ready to go (Acts 8:5 and 26-40). There is absolutely no doubt that if we are fully at the disposal of the Lord He will use us to the salvation of others.
Trust the Lord to use you in His own way and time. Look up and get the significance of Genesis 24:27. We may be unconscious of the fact that He is using us, or of the way in which He is using us, as in the case of Stephen (Acts 7:58); or we may know that He is using us, as in the case of Ananias (Acts 9:10-17).
Ask Him to show you what to do. We must plan to win souls (Acts 9:6). We must set out to win them, as a fisherman sets out to catch fish, as a man sets out to win a girl’s affection, or as an athlete sets out to win a race.
Make a list of those whom you would win.
Pray regularly for them.
Seek contact with them about their need. Write to them, send a helpful book to them, take them to a service, invite them to your home, etc.
Be interested in their interests.
Keep on keeping on until they are won.
Be prepared for the Lord to use you where you are. It may be at home, at school, in business, in hospital, or while you are travelling.
Be willing to be just a link in the chain of God’s purposes. It is rarely that God uses one instrument in the salvation of a soul. In most cases He uses many instruments. Be willing to do your share by prayer, or conversation or gentle persuasion.
Always remember that you are only an instrument in His hands and that you cannot win a soul, but that He can do the work of winning others through you. This great work is His work (1 Corinthians 3: 7-9).

GETTING THE MISSIONARY VISION

(Romans 10: 1-17)

In this study we think of the need for Christians and churches to become missionary-minded and missionary-hearted. Our title implies that there are many who have little or no missionary vision. Unfortunately, this is true. Some Christians are not very concerned for the salvation of souls at home, and they are less concerned for the salvation of the millions of souls abroad. Some say that they “do not believe in missionary work”; others say that, “Charity begins at home”; still others have been overwhelmed with the immensity of the task and have said, “The task is impossible!”; and a few uninstructed Christians have said, “Why interfere with the heathen? They have their own religions, and we should not go and upset their culture!” A missionary vision may be defined as: “A blending of correct INFORMATION and Spirit-begotten INSPIRATION that leads to definite ACTION.”

Now every Christian should be a missionary, though not necessarily a “foreign” missionary. But, are we right in speaking of “foreign” missionaries or the “foreign field”? The Lord Jesus said, “The field is the world” (Matthew 13:38). In this study, however, we are thinking of missionary work overseas, where the need is greatest and where so many have still never heard the gospel. How may a Christian get a missionary vision? Here are some suggestions:-

OUR EYES MUST SEE

There are facts which must be recognised before we can become missionary-minded and missionary-hearted, and we will mention three:-

God’s great redemptive purpose is for the whole of mankind. God loves the whole world (John 3:16); the Lord Jesus died for all men, everywhere (John 1:29; 1 John 2:2). We need Peter’s vision – look up Acts 10:7-16, and compare Romans 10:12-13.
God’s plan for making known the gospel is still Matthew 28:19, and this commission is just as binding upon us today as it was upon the first disciples. Have you ever spent ten minutes alone with your Lord and His Word in Matthew 28:19 – and Romans 10:14-15?
God’s plan in this dispensation is not the conversion of the world, but the evangelisation of the world. The Holy Spirit is engaged in this age in calling out a people who will constitute the Bride – look up Acts 15:14. Our primary task is not to educate, civilise or even Christianise the world, but to evangelise it – look up Acts 1:8.

OUR MIND MUST THINK

That is, we must become intelligently informed about three things:-

As to the size and extent of the world field. This demands a careful study of an up-to-date map of the world, and if possible a scale showing the present population of each continent or country.
As to the relative needs of each continent and country. In England there are churches in every town and in many villages, but India, for example, has more (and larger) people groups with no Christians, churches or workers than any other part of the world.
As to what is being done. This information can be gleaned in some measure from missionary magazines and meetings. Anyone who is available for special missionary service, or who is a missionary candidate, should do everything possible to gain as much information as possible about what is actually happening (or not happening) in the field of missionary endeavour.

OUR EARS MUST HEAR

If our eyes are opened to see, and our mind becomes informed, before long we shall hear a call – look up Acts 16:9. This call comes from millions of souls who are still waiting for “help”. They have never heard of our Saviour – the only One who can really “help” them. Do we hear their earnest, beseeching call?

OUR HEART MUST FEEL

What we see, think and hear will cause us to feel – look up Lamentations 3:51, and compare Matthew 9:36; Luke 19:41-42 and Acts 20:31. Are we “moved with compassion” as we think of the vast multitudes of lost, helpless, hopeless men, women, boys and girls who are bound by fear, superstition and degradation, who are dying and going to a Christless eternity?

OUR LIPS MUST SPEAK

If our heart begins to feel the desperate need of those who are eternally lost, then we shall be burdened to pray for labourers to be thrust forth into the world’s great harvest fields – look up Matthew 9:38. Start compiling a Missionary Prayer List. Start a Missionary prayer meeting in your church or home (Philemon 2). Covenant with others to exercise this vital ministry – look up Matthew 18:19.

OUR HANDS MUST WORK

Yes, by now we shall want to do something in a very practical way – our hands will want to work. How? By corresponding with missionaries, by making and sending clothing and other articles to missionaries; by welcoming a tired missionary on furlough to our home for a rest; by gathering missionary information for our church; by giving our money – look up Galatians 6:10.

OUR FEET MUST GO

All cannot go – but many who could go are not going. Young person, have you placed yourself at your Lord’s disposal for missionary service? If not, will you do so now? - look up Isaiah 6:8.

Closing challenge: Can you say – Acts 26:19?

TRIUMPHING IN TROUBLE

(Psalm 142: 1-7)

It was Joseph Parker, the London preacher of the 19th century, who said, “No preacher would ever lack a congregation if he preached to troubled hearts.” Of course he was right, for when we address our words to troubled hearts we are sure that we are speaking to everyone in the congregation or who reads our words, for everyone, everywhere, sooner or later experiences trouble and trial – look up Psalm 34:19 (first part). In this 142nd psalm we find the writer, David, in great trouble; he speaks in verse 2 of “my trouble”, and the whole psalm teaches us how to be triumphant in trouble – not how to escape trouble, but how to glorify God in the midst of trouble.

WHAT ARE WE TOLD ABOUT DAVID’S TROUBLE?

It is important to see how David reacted to his trouble, but before we can do this, notice what he tells us about the nature of his trouble. David at this time was a fugitive and his fortunes were at their lowest ebb. His reputation had gone and he was an outcast. We do not know exactly what the trouble was to which he referred, and this is helpful because it enables us to fit our own trouble into this picture. We are, however, told three things:-

David tells us that his trouble was very severe. In verse 3 (AV) he tells us that he was “overwhelmed” with it. The word “overwhelmed” really means “wrapped about”, just as the smoke from a bonfire billows up and wraps you about – it engulfs you. Notice also that in verse 6 he tells us that when his trouble came upon him he was “brought very low” (AV). This indicates a process. He went lower and lower until he felt he had touched bottom. Perhaps you are in the midst of an overwhelming experience at this time?
David tells us that other people had contributed to the severity of his trouble. In verse 3 he says that his enemies had set a “snare” for him; they had set a trap for him. And in verse 6, he refers to those who pursued him, who were too strong for him. It is bad enough to be overwhelmed with trouble, but it is doubly bad to have trouble brought upon us through the disloyalty and malice of so-called friends. Is that happening with you?
David tells us that no one seemed to understand or care. This must have been the hardest part of all, for it is a tremendous help if when we are in the midst of trouble we feel and know that our loved ones and friends understand the difficulties of our situation. David felt that no one understood, but he was wrong, of course, because the Lord did – look up 2 Timothy 4:17.

It is important now for us to notice what David did when he was in his great trouble, and how he reacted, because, when trouble comes upon us the important thing is how we react.

HOW DID DAVID REACT TO HIS TROUBLE?

The plain fact is that he triumphed over his trouble, but notice some things that he did not do when he was overwhelmed with trouble:-

He did not brood over his trouble and do nothing at all about it. This is important. Sometimes when we are in the midst of trouble we flop, become inactive and do nothing at all about it – and this is fatal.
He did not indulge in self-pity. He did not feel sorry for himself and wallow in a “poor me” attitude to his situation.
He did not become bitter and rebellious. He did not question God’s love, wisdom and providence; he did not become hard, critical and ill because of his trouble.
He did not overburden others with his trouble. As a matter of fact, he tells us that there did not seem to be any others who could help him.

What did David do when his trouble overwhelmed him? He did three very important things:-

He brought his trouble before the Lord in prayer. Verses 1 and 2 make this very clear. As we study these verses we are impressed with the intensity and the urgency of David’s prayer (in verse 1); the definiteness of his prayer (in verse 2); and the fact that his prayer was so practical (also in verse 2) – for he says, “before him I tell my trouble.” We instinctively think of Hezekiah when he received a threatening letter from an enemy – look up Isaiah 37:14, and see what he did. We think of the Christians in the early Church who were so troubled because Peter was in prison – look up Acts 12:5, and see what they did. This is how to react in a time of trouble – bring the whole matter and bring ourselves before the Lord and ask for His gracious help. What happened when David did this?
His faith and trust in God was deepened. In verse 3 he tells us that he was confident that God knew his “way”. This reminds us of Job 23:10. It seems that David looked up into the face of the Lord and said, “It’s all right, because the Lord knows all about me!” See also what he said in verse 5 – this surely is faith triumphing in the midst of trouble, and it reminds us of Psalm 23:4.
David was filled with hope. He was filled with confidence concerning the future, that everything would plan out satisfactorily. It is one thing to trust God for the present moment, but what about the unknown future? What about tomorrow, and next week, and next month and next year? Shall I come out of my trouble? If we lose hope we become filled with despair – look up Acts 27:20 and see what happens when hope goes. When hope goes we are desolate, but David had hope – see what he says in verse 7, “Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.

Here is the way to be triumphant in trouble:

(1) Engage in prayer;

(2) Prayer will strengthen faith;

(3) Faith will give hope and confidence

concerning the future and God’s loving undertaking and ultimate deliverance. C.H. Spurgeon says, “The gloom of the cave is over the psalm, and yet, as if standing at the mouth of the cave itself, the prophet-poet David sees a bright light a little beyond.” If you are in trouble do not lose hope; put your trust in God Himself, and all will be well.

INTRODUCTION TO THE LETTER

(Galatians 1: 1-5)

Paul’s letter to the churches at Galatia was written in AD 57. He made two missionary journeys to Galatia, and it was during one of these that he founded the churches there. When he preached the gospel, the Holy Spirit blessed the spoken word, souls were saved and churches were formed. But Paul was a pioneer missionary; he was always on the move, preaching in new places and planting new churches. Consequently he did not have time to stay very long with those who were converted under his ministry. After he had laboured in Galatia for a short while he moved on to other fields of service. It was probably while he was in Macedonia (Acts 20:1-3) that some sad news reached him. False teachers had entered the churches in Galatia and they were misleading the believers there with false doctrine, and in order to enforce their erroneous teaching they had set out to attack Paul and were endeavouring to prove that he was not an apostle at all, and therefore all his teaching lacked authority. When Paul heard this news he immediately sat down and wrote this letter.

To Paul, doctrine mattered more than men’s opinions. Revelation was far more important than mere human speculation. What was the false teaching which was being propagated in the Galatian churches? Judaising teachers, claiming authority from Jerusalem, were endeavouring to place the Gentile Christians in Galatia in bondage to the Law. They were telling them that unless they did certain things they could not be saved, and one particular thing they needed to “do” was to be circumcised (Galatians 5:1-6). These false teachers “wanted to substitute external badges for inward faith; legal bondage for Christian freedom; observance of practices for holiness of heart.” One writer has said, “We have most of us been reared and now live under the influence of Galatianism.” True! – for very many professing Christians seem to think that salvation depends upon good works or upon rites and ceremonies.

This is a glorious letter; it is “the most profound, condensed and powerful argument ever expressed in writing.” Martin Luther said, “The Epistle to the Galatians is my Epistle. I have betrothed myself to it. It is my wife!”

Let us notice four things as we study the first five verses of chapter one.

THE WRITER IS DESCRIBED

Please read Galatians 1:1-2 and 6:11, and notice the following:

Paul was the writer. There is no doubt about this, for we have his signature on the letter. It was customary in those days to commence a letter with one’s name. Paul tells us that he wrote the letter with his own hand – look up Galatians 6:11. How this reveals his heart of love and his deep concern for those believers in Galatia!
Paul declares himself to be an Apostle. He is careful to state this because these false teachers were questioning his apostleship. The word “apostle” means “messenger” or “sent one”. How was Paul made an apostle? He tells us in verse
Only God can make messengers – and in Acts 26:15-18 we read of the occasion when God called this man to be His messenger.

Paul associates himself with the brethren who are with him when he sends this Letter. The apostle was always glad to recognise his fellow-labourers in the gospel, and this in itself is an indication of this great man’s real humility.

Paul addresses his Letter to “the churches in Galatia”. There is only one Church, but there are many local assemblies of born again people – “churches”.

THE SAVIOUR IS REVEALED

In Galatians there are over forty references to the Person of Christ, and in these first five verses the Lord Jesus is revealed in a four-fold aspect.

His Names are mentioned. In verse 3, Paul writes of Him as “the Lord Jesus Christ”. “Jesus” = “Saviour”; “Christ” = “Sanctifier”; “Lord” = “Sovereign”. Give Him His full title!
His Nature is indicated. In verse 1 He is linked with God the Father – “Jesus Christ, and God the Father…” In verse 3 the same thing happens again. “God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”. Our Lord Jesus Christ is God the Son in a unique sense. We are “children of God by faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26); but He is the Son of God. He always has been and He always will be “God the Son”.
His Sacrifice is declared. This is stated in verse 4. Notice that His sacrifice was: (1) voluntary – “gave himself”; (2) substitutionary – “for our sins”; (3) redeeming – “to rescue us from the present evil age”; (4) triumphant – “according to the will of our God and Father”.
His Resurrection is emphasised. In verse 1 we read that our Lord Jesus died, but He rose from the dead. He was raised for our justification (Romans 4:25); He is alive (Hebrews 7:25). Why does Paul mention the Lord’s resurrection? Because these false teachers claimed that Paul could not be an apostle because he had not seen Christ alive. But Paul had seen Christ alive – look up Acts 9:3-6.

THE GREETING IS CONVEYED

When we send a letter, if it is a friendly letter we include a greeting, a salutation, and Paul did this – see verse 3. He wished for his friends “grace” and “peace”, and these are the two blessings which you and I need most of all. This is not so much the grace which saves as the grace which keeps – look up 2 Corinthians 9:8 and 12:9; and this is not so much peace with God (Romans 5:1), as the peace of God (Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:6-7). These are the blessings we need: grace and peace!

THE LORD IS PRAISED

The apostle concludes his introduction and his salutation with the words, “…God and Father, to whom be glory for ever and ever.” And then he says, “Amen!” – “So let it be!”-– and surely we say the same

THE PURE DOCTRINE OF THE GOSPEL

(Galatians 1: 6-12)

Martin Luther says that when Paul visited the Christians in Galatia, he taught them “the pure doctrine of the gospel”. The word “gospel” appears many times in the New Testament – look up Mark 1:1; Romans 1:15; 1 Corinthians 1:17; 9:16 and Philippians 1:5 – and compare Acts 20:24; 2 Corinthians 4:3-4; Ephesians 1:13 and Revelation 14:6. This word “gospel” occurs no less than twelve times in Galatians.

The Gospel is Good News from God to Man. The word “gospel” means “good news”. The good news is summarised in John 3:16 – and it is important to include verse 17. The Devil would have us believe that the gospel is bad news, that God sent His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in this he is wrong. The gospel declares a great act of God – something wonderful that God has done for mankind. Read John 3:16 again, and then compare Romans 1:16 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. The gospel is such good news because: (1) it is the news of salvation – pardon, purity, peace, power and Paradise – to all who will receive it; (2) it is a free offer; (3) it is for all; (4) it is undeserved, and (5) it is offered, received and experienced by believing, that is, by faith alone.

There is only one true Gospel though there are many false gospels.

This, of course, was the burden of the apostle’s letter. He had preached the true gospel to these Christians, and then false teachers had come in and had led the young believers astray by teaching “a different gospel” – compare verses 6, 7, 8 and 9. This “different gospel” which had been preached to the Galatians by these false teachers was a counterfeit gospel, and the marks of a counterfeit are similarity without reality or validity. The world today is full of “different gospels”, false gospels. See what Jesus said in Matthew 7:15, and what Paul said in 1 Timothy 4:1-3 and 2 Timothy 3:1-5. These false gospels may be gathered under three headings:

Romanism, which for the Gospel substitutes the Church, Mariolatry (the worship of Mary), angel-worship, the confessional, salvation by merit and by works.
Ritualism, which says that we can only be saved if we conform to certain rites and ceremonies, such as being baptised, confirmed, circumcised, etc.
Rationalism, which substitutes man’s opinions for God’s truth. It denies the authority of the Word of God and it substitutes character and works for the gospel of salvation.

The Gospel is true because it is not man-conceived but God-revealed.

See what the apostle says in Galatians 1:11-12. Where did the gospel come from? If it is of man it is like man, frail, faulty and unreliable; but if it comes from God it is God-like, reliable and authentic – compare Romans 1:1, where the words “gospel of God” literally mean “the gospel out of God”. God is the Author, the Source of the gospel. This means that the gospel is not a religion but a revelation; it is not something which begins with man and endeavours to reach God, but it is something which begins in the heart of God and has been revealed to sinful man. Paul tells us that he received his gospel from God – compare Galatians 1:11 and 1 Corinthians 15:3. The gospel was not Paul’s gospel; it was not a man-made system, but a God-revealed salvation. It is therefore true to say that while every religion is comparative, Christianity is superlative, for it is unique; it stands alone; it is the only true revelation from God and of God. No wonder Paul so ardently defended the true gospel!

Strong censure is brought against those who do not preach the Gospel. In Galatians 1:7 they are described as those who “pervert the

gospel”, and see what the apostle says of them in verses 8 and 9. This is very strong language, but is it too strong? No! What a dreadful thing it is to impart wrong information, especially when this may bring damnation to the soul instead of salvation. Often, when preachers do this, we say, “Yes, but they are very sincere! They are good men. We must be tolerant. We mustn’t be critical!” But there is only one gospel, and it is a very solemn thing to preach and teach any substitute. It is against the law of the land to offer quack medicines to the public. How much more serious it is to offer a quack gospel which has to do not only with the bodies of men but with their eternal well-being! When a “different gospel” is preached we must always denounce it – look up Jude 3.

The Gospel must be preached. Compare Galatians 1:8, 9, 11 and 23;2:2 and 4:13. There are three main reasons why the gospel must be preached:

Because we are commanded to preach the gospel – look up Matthew 28:19.
Because it pleases God by the foolishness of such preaching to save those who believe – look up 1 Corinthians 1:21.
Because if we fail to preach the gospel we are hiding the way of salvation from those who are lost and who can only be saved by hearing and believing the gospel – look up 1 Corinthians 9:23.

The gospel, of course, must be preached not only by lip but by life – look up and compare Matthew 5:16 and Mark 5:19.

The Gospel is for all and must be preached to all. There is one gospel – look up Isaiah 45:22, and compare Luke 2:10-11 and Romans 10:11-15. How urgent the need is to take the gospel to everyone – Mark 16:15!
The Gospel is often preached in much weakness. Paul tells us in

Galatians 4:13 that when he preached the gospel to these Christians in Galatia “it was because of an illness”, and how often God’s servants preach in weakness! It is never easy to preach the gospel, for we have a powerful Enemy and frequently men do not want to hear the gospel – and in addition to this, those who preach often have to overcome physical handicaps. When we preach, however, let us always remember that it is the message that counts.

THE MARKS OF A GOOD TESTIMONY

(Galatians 1: 13-24)

Paul was a great theologian and a great preacher, but he loved to give his testimony because he knew that there is a tremendous power in the word of personal testimony. Testimonies can never take the place of preaching and teaching the Word – look up 1 Corinthians 1:21; but the personal testimony of God’s people empowers the word that is preached. Every converted person should be willing to tell what the Lord has done for him or her – look up Psalm 107:2 and Acts 4:20. What are the marks of a good testimony?

It should be SHORT and to the point. The much-used advice is very good – “Stand up, speak up – and shut up!”
It should ring with ASSURANCE. Read the testimony of the man who had been born blind – John 9:25, and compare 2 Timothy 1:12.
It should be UP-TO-DATE. There is a value in telling what the Lord has done for us in the past, but we must tell that He is our living, day-by-day Saviour.
It should be CHRIST-CENTRED. We must speak about what the Lord has done for us, but let us be careful to give Him all the glory – look up John 3:30.
It should be ABSOLUTELY TRUE. It is easy to add just a little more to our story each time we tell it – and this is wrong!

A sincere, heart-felt, word of testimony will do more to convince people of the power of the gospel than all the arguments and reasoning in the world. It was partly because of this that Paul gave his testimony in this letter. The false teachers who had come into the Church were questioning the apostle’s authority and his right to call himself an apostle, so Paul told them of the Lord’s dealings with him; he gave his testimony, and this is recorded in Galatians 1:13 – 2:14. Let us ask Paul to give us his testimony in everyday language.

“As a young man I was religious, yet I was spiritually lost, blind and dead.” Paul tells us this in verses 13 and 14. Twice he speaks of “Judaism”. Saul of Tarsus had a very strict, religious upbringing, and he was familiar with all the teachings, the rites and ceremonies and the traditions connected with the Hebrew economy – look up Acts 26:5; yet, in spite of all his religious background and his religious convictions, Saul was an unsaved, spiritually dead and blind man. There are many people like that – religious, but lost.
“I was absolutely sincere in thinking that Jesus Christ was an imposter, that Christianity was a false system, and that Christians were deluded, and I did all I could to persecute those who loved and followed the Lord.” We are told this in verse 13, and it must have grieved Paul to have to write this. Wherever he heard of Christians he had turned upon them, made havoc of them and had devastated them with the fury of an invading army. He really thought he was serving God – look up Acts 26:9-12. Is there any hope for a man like this? Yes, there is! – look up 1 Timothy 1:12-15. The grace of God which arrests and transforms a man like this is still the same, is still available and is still operative.
“Suddenly, while I was persecuting God’s children, a miracle took place!” Verses 15 and 16 tell us how the Lord graciously broke into the life of this man, and in Acts 26:13-16 we have a fuller account. Notice four things that God did in accomplishing Paul’s salvation, and that He still does for all those whom He saves by His grace:

“He set me apart” (verse 15). Notice when the Lord set Paul apart, and compare Jeremiah 1:5; Romans 8:29; Ephesians 1:3-4 and 2:10. Those of us who have been saved by God’s grace can rejoice in the wonderful truth that the Lord has loved us and purposed our salvation from eternity past.
“He called me by His grace” (verse 15). Acts 26:14 amplifies this. What wonderful grace it was that wrought the miracle in Paul; but what wonderful grace it is that has wrought a similar miracle in every sinner saved by grace!
“He revealed His Son in me” (verse 16). Notice the preposition “in”. Should it not be “to”? We read in Acts 9:3-5 that the Lord Jesus revealed Himself to Saul of Tarsus; but having revealed Himself to him He also revealed Himself in A Christian is one who has received the Lord Jesus into his life – look up John 1:12; 2 Corinthians 13:5; Galatians 2:20 and Colossians 1:29.
“He commissioned me to my life-work” (verse 16). God wanted Paul to be a foreign missionary. Are we doing the work that God has planned for us?

“Immediately after my conversion I went into the desert to be alonewith God.” This is indicated in verses 16 and 17. Why does Paul tell us this? He is emphasising the fact that after his conversion he did not go up to Jerusalem to meet the other apostles, to be “accredited” by them as an apostle, because he had already received his apostleship from God. We know very little of what actually happened during these three years in Arabia, but it is generally thought that they were years of quiet waiting on God and preparation for his life-work.
“After I left Arabia, I returned to the scene of my conversion.”

We are told this in verse 17. How moved the apostle would have been as doubtless he met again some of those Christians whom in earlier days he had persecuted! It is great when God’s children go back to their friends and give a clear testimony as to what the Lord has done for them.

“Then I had wonderful fellowship with Peter, James, Barnabas, Titus,John and many others.” Compare Galatians 1:18, 19, 22; 2:1 and 9. All these servants of the Lord accepted the fact that Paul was an apostle. Christian fellowship is a most wonderful thing!
“From the moment the Lord saved me, I set out to make Him known to as many people as possible.” If you read through Galatians, and indeed all his other Letters, you will be impressed with the burden which rested upon the heart of this man to make Christ known to as many people as possible in the quickest possible time – look up 1 Corinthians 9:2

JUSTIFICATION: BY FAITH OR BY WORKS?

(Romans 5: 1-11)

The question asked in Job 25:4 is a tremendous one. How can man, who by nature is sinful (Romans 3:10), the enemy of God (Romans 5:10), condemned (John 3:18) and living under God’s wrath (John 3:36), be justified with God? To be justified means to be made righteous, acquitted and cleared from every accusation, and God has provided and offered to man a method whereby He is able to look upon him as if he had never sinned at all.

How can man be justified with God? There is only one way, and that is God’s way. Right through human history man has substituted his own way, a false way, a way that has seemed right but that most certainly leads to disappointment and death – look up Proverbs 14:12. Let us examine:

Man’s way – a false way, the way of human works, of doing, of merit, of law-keeping, of trying. Man says, “If I do the best I can then God will accept me.”
God’s Way – the true way, the divinely-provided way, the way of faith in the Person and the finished work of the Lord Jesus Christ, through whose death and resurrection alone we can be justified. God says, “I will accept you the moment you trust in My Son and in His precious blood.”

Now compare two clear illustrations of man’s way and God’s way of justification.

In Genesis 4:1-7 we read of two men who each brought an offering to the Lord. Cain brought the works of his hands, and his offering was rejected; Abel brought a sacrifice, and his offering was accepted. Cain’s way was the way of human works, which is not acceptable to the Lord – look up Jude 11. Abel’s way was the God-appointed way through the shedding of blood – look up Hebrews 9:22.
In Luke 18:9-14 we read of two men who went into the temple to pray. The Pharisee was resting entirely upon his good works, and he was not justified before God. The publican was deeply conscious of his sin. He asked God to have mercy on him, the sinner, and in praying this prayer he indicated his trust and faith in Another who had shed His blood for him – look up 1 John 4:10. This man was justified because he was not depending upon his own works but upon the finished work of Another.

How up-to-date these two portions of scripture are! People today are either relying upon their own works for justification and acceptance before God, or they are relying upon the Lord Jesus and His finished work; it is either justification by works or by faith. How many rely upon church-going, praying, charity, service, etc., and some upon confession to a priest, doing penance – works, works, works! This is man’s way, and it is not acceptable to God.

Turn to the Letters to the Romans and to the Galatians and see what the apostle Paul says in relation to this matter of justification. Look up and study the references carefully, and notice that in each one it is clearly stated that we are justified by faith, and not by works.

Romans 3:20-22; 3:26 and 28; 4:5 – and compare Acts 13:38-39; Ephesians 2:8-10 and Titus 3:5.
Galatians 2:16; 3:6-8, 11, 13-14, 22, 24 and 26.

THREE REASONS WHY JUSTIFICATION CANNOT BE BY WORKS

Because by nature and by practice we are sinful, and therefore we are incapable of producing any works that are acceptable to a holy God. Look up Isaiah 64:6, and compare Galatians 3:10 and James 2:10. If we are to be saved by works, by keeping the Law, we must give perfect obedience; we must keep the Law fully, in every point. But we are incapable of doing this! “Not the labour of my hands can fulfil Thy law’s demands...” Even if we could keep the Law from now on, what about our past sins -–Ecclesiastes 3:15?
Because if we could be justified by works, then Christ’s coming, His death and blood-shedding were wholly unnecessary. In Galatians 2:20 we read “the Son of God, who loved me… and gave himself for me”. He died upon the cross as our Substitute. But see what it says in verse 21: if we did not need a substitute then “Christ died for nothing”. If I could be saved by Law-keeping and by works, then why was it necessary for the Lord Jesus to die for me at all? – compare Galatians 5:2 and 4.
Because justification by works would be grossly unfair and unjust and inconsistent with the character of God. Imagine two young fellows. One is brought up in an ungodly home and from earliest childhood is taught to do evil. The other is brought up in a godly home and from earliest childhood is trained to love the Lord. Which fellow stands the better chance of being justified – if justification could be obtained by good works? Obviously, the second. But would this be a fair method? No – and it is not God’s method!

THREE REASONS WHY JUSTIFICATION IS BY FAITH ALONE, PLUS NOTHING!

Because this is God’s prescribed plan and method for justifying sinners. All the above scriptures indicate this most clearly, and to them can be added many others such as John 3:16; 5:24; Romans 1:16; 10:9-10, all of which are summed up in Galatians 3:11! If I am to be justified then it must be in God’s way – “it is God who justifies” (Romans 8:33).
Because this method alone is consistent with the grace of God. In Romans 3:24 and Titus 3:7, we read that we are “justified freely by His grace”. But what is grace? Grace is the boundless love and mercy of God which is given freely and fully to undeserving sinners. The very principle of grace is that the gift offered is absolutely free, that it cannot be purchased or worked for – look up Ephesians 2:8-10. If justification were by works, then the grace of God would be rendered void.
Because millions of sinners have proved that the faith method of justification is effective. They have cast away all reliance upon their own works; they have trusted alone in Christ’s atoning blood, and they have been justified. In Romans 5:1-11, the apostle gives us seven results of justification. Please look them up!

Upon what are you trusting for justification, for salvation? Upon yourself? – or, have you put your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus and in Hi

CHAPTER 9 THE CROSS IN GALATIANS

(1 Corinthians 1: 17-25)

What is meant by the expression “the cross”? - look up and compare

1 Corinthians 1:18; Philippians 2:8; 3:18 and Colossians 1:20. “The Cross” is an expression that contains the great fact and significance of the death of our Lord Jesus Christ upon Calvary. Another Bible term is “the blood” – look up Ephesians 2:13; 1 Peter 1:19; 1 John 1:7 and Revelation 12:11; and this expression refers to the unique nature of the sacrifice that Christ Jesus made for us upon the cross. The “cross” and the “blood” are interchangeable terms. Both refer to His death and to the great purpose and significance of that death.

It is historically true that the Lord Jesus died upon the cross, but why did He die? What does His death mean to the believer? The following seven key-words, with the references, will answer that question.

SUBSTITUTION: On the cross the Lord Jesus died for us, bearing away our sin in His own Body. We see this in Galatians 1:4 – and the words to underline are, “who gave Himself for our sins…” Our sins have incurred the penalty of sin which is death – look up Ezekiel 18:4 and Romans 6:23; but in order that we might not die the Lord Jesus took our place and died for us – look up and compare Isaiah 53:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21 and 1 Peter 2:24.

IDENTIFICATION: On the cross, not only did the Lord Jesus die for us,but we died with Him. This truth is contained in Galatians 2:20. The death of Christ upon the cross was God’s judgment upon the old creation. The Lord Jesus died as our Representative, and thus we, who formed a part of that old creation and who now believe in Him, died with Him. This is what the apostle meant when, looking back to the cross, he wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ…My old sinful self was nailed to the cross”. Turn to Romans, chapter 6, and notice how clearly this truth is brought out; in verse 2: “We died to sin…”; verse 3: “baptised into his death”; verse 4: “buried into death…”; verse 5: “united with him like this in his death…”; verse 6: “For we know that our old self was crucified…”; and then in verse 11 we are exhorted, “count yourselves dead to sin…” In other words, we are to believe God’s testimony that when the Lord Jesus died, we died – and we are to reckon upon that fact. We can never put our old nature to death, but we do not have to. What we have to do is to reckon upon His death, for when He died we died.
REDEMPTION: On the cross the Lord Jesus died to redeem us from the curse of the Law. Compare Galatians 3:13 and 4:4-5. What does this mean – “redeemed from the curse of the Law”? Why the curse of the Law? For this reason, that the Law makes a demand upon us which we cannot meet. The Law says to us, “Do this, and you shall live, and if you do not do it you will die” – see Galatians 3:10. Because we have broken the Law we are under the curse of the Law, and so the Lord Jesus died for us in order to deliver us from this curse. Suppose the way of salvation were by Law-keeping; in the first place we never could be saved, for not one of us can ever keep the Law of God; and in the second place, we would never have any assurance of salvation because however much we tried we would be conscious of failure. Even if we thought the Lord would balance up our good deeds against our bad deeds, (which He does not do!), we would all the time be wondering if we had enough good deeds to outweigh the bad ones.
PERSECUTION: On the cross the Lord Jesus died a shameful death,and all who follow Him will suffer persecution. Read Galatians 5:11 and 6:12. Because the Cross is an offence to the natural man, all who love it and preach it will suffer persecution. When the apostle Paul went to Corinth he tells us that he found there that the preaching of the cross was “a stumbling block to the Jews…” (1 Corinthians 1:23). Death by crucifixion was the most degrading form of punishment – see what Galatians 3:13 says! It is therefore obvious that those of us who are identified with the cross must be willing to share the offence of the cross and to suffer persecution.
SEPARATION: On the cross the Lord Jesus died for us that we might have deliverance from the sinful nature. This is brought before us in Galatians 5:24, and it links up with Galatians 2:20, though there is a significant emphasis which we must not fail to notice. In 2:20 we are told of an accomplished fact – that when the Lord Jesus died we died, and in the purpose of God nothing can alter this. But in 5:24 we are told that we have to assent to this fact; we have to act upon it, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires” – look up Colossians 3:5. Have you ever held a funeral service for yourself? Have you reckoned yourself dead, buried with Christ and raised with Him too – Romans 6:3-4?
EMANCIPATION: On the cross the Lord Jesus died to deliver us from this present evil world. Here we bring together Galatians 1:4 and 6:14. The Lord Jesus died to deliver us from this present evil world in order that we might be a separated people. This being the case, can we adopt the world’s standards, wear the world’s dress, go to the world’s pleasures and make bosom friends of worldly people when the Lord Jesus died to deliver us from the world? You see, “the world” is society with God left out, the society which crucified the Lord Jesus and which has no place for Him. We are living in the world, but we are not to be of the world, and the power which can separate us and emancipate us from the world is the cross of Christ – look up 1 John 2:15-18.
Finally, EXULTATION: Let us glory in the crossGod forbid that we should do otherwise – Galatians 6:14

THE HOLY SPIRIT IN GALATIANS

(Galatians 3: 1-29)

In Galatians, the Holy Spirit is mentioned at least thirteen times – look up Galatians 3: 2,3,5,14; 4: 6,29; 5: 5,16,17,18,22,25; and 6:8. The Holy Spirit is a real Person. It is important to emphasise this as many think of Him only as a great power or influence. In the Bible He is spoken of as “He”, “Him”, “His”, and His name is always given a capital S; moreover, we read of Him doing things which only a person could do. Read the references to the Holy Spirit in the Gospel of John, chapters 14, 15 and 16, and notice the indications of personality which are shown in the things that He does. But the Holy Spirit is not only a real Person; He is a divine Person, He is God, the third Person in the Godhead. This does not mean that He is of lesser importance than God the Father and God the Son, but He is third in order, or in succession. A reference to Matthew 3:16-17; 28:19; Acts 5:3-4; 2 Corinthians 3:17 and 13:14; and a comparison between Exodus 17:2-7and Hebrews 3:7-9, make it clear that the Holy Spirit is God.

What is the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer?

The Holy Spirit performs the miracle of the new birth in the believer.

We learn this from Galatians 4:29. Notice the two contrasting phrases – “born in the ordinary way…” and “born by the power of the Spirit”; and compare John 3:3-7, particularly noticing verses 5 and 6. The miracle of the new birth is the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit. We can never place ourselves in the family of God and make ourselves Christians, but when we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and receive Him as our Saviour, then we are born of God, born again, and we become members of God’s family – look up John 1:12-13.

The Holy Spirit communicates the Divine life to the believer.

In Galatians 5:25, we have the expression, “we live by the Spirit”, and this reminds us of the fact that when we are born again and are constituted members of God’s family, the very life of God is communicated to us, imparted to us, by the Holy Spirit. By our natural birth we received physical life; when we were born again we received spiritual life – compare 2 Peter 1:4. A Christian is not just a religious person, not one who tries to follow the example of Christ, but he is one who is alive from the dead! By nature we are spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1), and that is why it is we need to be born again and to receive a new life – look up John 5:39-40; 10:10 and 1 John 5:11-12.

The Holy Spirit personally indwells every believer.

The implication of Paul’s question in Galatians 3:2 is that all the believers in the church at Galatia had received the Holy Spirit – and so they had! How had they received Him – and when? By the hearing of faith. In other words, the moment they believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit came to dwell within them for ever, for the Holy Spirit indwells every believer – look up the following scriptures which make this very clear; (1) John 7:37-39; (2) John 14:16-17; (3) Romans 5:5; (4) Romans 8:9; (5) 1 Corinthians 6:19; (6) 1 Corinthians 12:13 and (7) 1 Thessalonians 4:8.

The Holy Spirit gives the believer the assurance of sonship.

Galatians 4:6 tells us this, and notice that the first part of the verse confirms what we have just been emphasising under the previous heading. But what does the Holy Spirit do for us when He enters into our hearts? According to this verse, and a parallel verse in Romans 8:14, we learn that He creates within us the consciousness of our relationship with God, and He gives us the assurance that we are His children. We cry out to Him, “Abba, Father!” – just as a small child says, “Daddy!”

The Holy Spirit leads the believer into a life of victory over sin and self.Galatians 5:16-17 tells us this. When we are born again, immediately a warfare begins. The apostle Paul also knew it in experience – look up Romans 7:18-25. What is the way of deliverance from the sinful nature? How can the believer be victorious over sin and self? The Holy Spirit gives us the victory when we do three things:

When we walk in fellowship with Him – Galatians 5:16. This means going along in harmony with Him – look up Amos 3:3.
When we submit to His leading – Galatians 5:18. It is when we recognise His lordship and yield ourselves to His control that we experience His victory.
When we exercise discipline in our lives – Galatians 6:7-8. It is possible for us to sow to the sinful nature or sow to the Spirit – look up Romans 13:14.

The Holy Spirit makes the believer like the Lord Jesus.In Galatians 5:22, we have a “cluster” of the fruit of the Spirit, and this fruit can only be produced in our lives by the Holy Spirit. To put it in a very practical way, we can only become like the Lord Jesus - loving, joyful, peaceful, longsuffering, gentle… - as the Holy Spirit makes us like Him. We do not become like Jesus by struggling and striving. Having been born of the Spirit, we are also sanctified by the Spirit - look up Galatians 3:3. How does fruit grow on a tree? Not by struggling and striving. When the branch is in union with the vine and in communion with the vine, then the fruit gradually but certainly appears – look up John 15:1-8.

The Holy Spirit is the inspiration and the power of the believer’s service.

In Galatians 3:5, Paul tells us that when he lived and laboured amongst the Galatians, all his ministry was in the power and energy of the Holy Spirit. We can never serve God effectively in the energy of the flesh, but we can serve Him effectively in the power and might of the Holy Spirit – look up Zechariah 4:6 and compare Acts 1:8.

WHEN, HOW AND WHY GOD SENT HIS SON

(Galatians 4: 1-31)

In Galatians 4:4-7, three facts about the incarnation of our Lord are emphasised. In Matthew 1:25 – 2:1; Luke 2:7 and John 1:1 and 14, we have the historical account of the incarnation. These accounts are not in any way contradictory, but they are supplementary and must be taken together to obtain a complete view of the birth of our Lord. But, whereas the Evangelists present us in the Gospels with the historical account of the incarnation, the apostle Paul in the passage before us gives us the doctrinal explanation of the event. Notice three lines of truth emphasised in this section of scripture:

THE TIME OF THE INCARNATION: WHEN GOD SENT HIS SON

When did this take place? Matthew tells us that it was “during the time of King Herod” (Matthew 2:1). We know, by our calendars, that it is now over 2000 years since God sent His Son into this world; but in Galatians 4:4, we are told that it was “when the time had fully come”. In creation, God worked to a timetable. The first two chapters of Genesis make this clear. There was plan, order and method in God’s work of creation; but this is also true in regard to His work of redemption, which involved the sending forth of His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh. See how Romans 5:6 puts it, and compare a similar expression in Acts 2:1 – and then look up and compare John 2:4; 4:21; 5:25; 7:6 and 13:1. God has appointed the time for each detail concerning the redemptive work of His Son, and this time was appointed in Eternity – look up Revelation 13:8. The exact time was also predicted in antiquity, four thousand years before Jesus came – look up Genesis 3:15; and, speaking from a human point of view, Jesus came just at the right time! – when the world was ready morally, spiritually, socially, politically, religiously and nationally. It is well for us to remember that God is still working to a timetable!

THE NATURE OF THE INCARNATION: HOW GOD SENT HIS SON

This is revealed in three expressions in Galatians 4:4.

“God sent his Son.” God was the prime mover – compare John 3:16. The coming of the Lord Jesus was voluntary – look up Psalm 40:7. Notice here that the pre-existence of Christ is implied, for if “God sent his Son”, He had to come forth from somewhere – look up Isaiah 9:6, and compare John 16:28.
“Born of a woman.” The Lord Jesus was “the offspring of the woman” (Genesis 3:15). When He came to earth, deity was clothed with humanity, for He was the God-man – not the Man who became God, but God who became man. If Jesus had been a mere man it would be foolish to say of Him that “He was born of a woman”, for how else can anybody come into this world except by being made, or born of a woman? The very fact that this expression is used declares that the Lord Jesus was unique in His Person and in the method of His birth.
“Born under law.” In the days of His flesh, our Lord was subject to:
The Ceremonial Law, for He was circumcised and presented at the Temple, He worshipped in the Temple and He attended the Feasts at the Temple (Luke 2:21, 41-42).
The Social Law. He was subject to His parents (Luke 2:51).
The Civil Law (Matthew 17:24-27).
The Moral Law. He kept the Law in every point; He said that He had not come “to abolish the Law and the Prophets … but to fulfil them” – Matthew 5:17. It is in particular the Moral Law to which Paul refers. Our Lord made Himself subject to that Law, He came and kept it as our representative. Think of the self-imposed limitation and the humiliation of all this for our Lord, who was the Eternal Son of God. What a stoop this was – compare Philippians 2:7-8.

THE PURPOSE OF THE INCARNATION: WHY GOD SENT HIS SON

Why did the Lord Jesus need to come from Heaven to earth to be born in Bethlehem’s manger? There was a three-fold purpose, and this is mentioned in Galatians 4:5, 6 and 7.

He came in order that we might be REDEEMED (verse 5). To redeem, in this case, means to deliver from the bondage and the curse of the Law. The curse of the Law is the penalty which comes because we have broken the Law, and we all have broken the Law, and therefore we are under the curse and are in danger of punishment. But Christ came to redeem us from the curse of the Law, and He did this by offering His life and shedding His blood on Calvary’s cross – look up 1 Peter 1:18-19. Thank God, every believer can sing: “Free from the Law, O happy condition, Jesus had bled, and there is remission…”
He came that we might receive the FULL RIGHTS of sons (verse 5). God’s purpose in the incarnation is that we might become sons of God, and this sonship is based upon redemption – “to redeem…that we might receive…”. The Son of God became the Son of man that we, sons of men, might become sons of God. Who, then, are the sons of God? They are those who have the Spirit of adoption in their hearts – compare Galatians 4:6 with 1 John 3:1.
He came that we might become HEIRS of God through Christ (verse 7). Compare Romans 8:16-17, where we are told that we are co-heirs with Christ. Because He shared our humanity, with all the consequent sufferings which this involved, we, by His grace and through faith in Him, are to share His glory. In the parable of Luke 15, the father said to his elder son, “My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours” (Luke 15:31). This is exactly what our Father says to everyone of His children:
“Son…” – Redemption
“you are always with me…” – Full Rights
“all I have is yours.” – an Heir of God.

WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG?

(Galatians 5: 1-15)

How sad it is when one who has been truly converted turns back (Acts 7:39), backslides (Proverbs 14:14), becomes lukewarm (Revelation 3:16), and loses his first love (Revelation 2:4)! What a tragedy this is – to be keen and out-and-out for Christ, and then to turn away from the Lord! There were those in the Galatian Church who had this experience in AD 56; they had been turned aside by false teachers who had succeeded in getting them into bondage again to the Law – see Galatians 5:7. The thought conveyed to us in this verse is that the Christian life is a race. Paul used this metaphor in 1 Corinthians 9:26 – and compare Hebrews 12:1-2; but here, in Galatians 5:7, we are told that we might be hindered in the race.

WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? Were you hindered by the inconsistency of professing Christians? Then you need to take heed to 1 Peter 2:21. You see, your trouble is that you have been looking to other Christians and following their example, and perhaps you have even put them on a pedestal – and then, when you have discovered that they are not as perfect as you had thought, you have been disappointed and discouraged. There is only One whom we can set up as our example, and that is our Lord Jesus Christ Himself – look up Hebrews 12:1-2. It is most essential to look off – away from yourself, your circumstances and from other Christians – to Jesus Himself.

WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? Were you hindered by persecution, misunderstanding or opposition? Then you need to take heed to John 16:33. Many a fellow or girl has accepted Christ in a meeting and has then gone home to face the misunderstanding and opposition of loved ones and friends, and the test has been so severe that after a while they have become discouraged and have “given everything up”. But, “it is hard to be a Christian”, and our Lord expressly told us that it would be so – look up Matthew 5:11-12. The Lord Jesus was threatened with stones (John 8:59), they put a crown of thorns upon His head (John 19:1-3), they mocked Him (Luke 23:33-37) – and then they crucified Him (John 19:18). Is it not a great privilege to suffer with Him? – look up Philippians 1:29, and compare Acts 5:41 and 2 Corinthians 11:23-30.

WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? Were you hindered by some severe trial or sorrow? Then you need to take heed to Hebrews 12:6. Do you know the very first thing the Lord does when we tell Him that we are willing to be wholly His? He tests us out to see if we really mean it! – and all the way through our earthly pilgrimage He disciplines us. But be sure that you understand what this word “discipline” means; it means “training in obedience; correction for our improvement ”. He allows all sorts of testings and trials to beset us in order that we may be cast on Him (Psalm 55:22), that we may be refined (Malachi 3:3), and that our faith may be deepened (1 Peter 1:7). Have you ever noticed Luke 7:23? – and be sure to read verses 19-22 as well – and compare 1 Peter 2:8!
WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? Were you hindered by the pull of the world? Then you need to take heed to 1 John 2:15. It is not possible to love the Lord Jesus and to love the world at the same time – look up Matthew 6:24. That was the trouble with Demas (2 Timothy 4:10) – he was hindered by a love for the world. Many Christians have succumbed to the pull of the world. Indeed, relatively speaking, all of us have. The influence of the media upon us all is very great indeed. Almost without realising it we submit to the world’s standards, which means that we fall short of God’s standards of righteousness, purity and truth – look up Philippians 4:8, and seek to obey the exhortation in this verse – then compare Proverbs 23:7.
WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? Were you hindered by neglect of fellowship with the Lord? Then you need to take heed to John 15:4. To “remain” means to “stay put”. There are many Christians who, instead of abiding in Christ, have backslidden because they have neglected the devotional reading of God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:15-17); and the regular attendance at the house of God (Hebrews 10:25), and in consequence of this neglect they have not grown and progressed spiritually (2 Peter 3:18).
WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? Were you hindered by some wilful act of disobedience? Then you need to take heed to Jeremiah 26:13. It is of little use thinking about it, talking about it or even praying about it unless you actually “reform your ways…and obey the Lord your God.” In other words, there must be some drastic dealing with anything and everything that is wrong in the life. Perhaps there is a wrong friendship (Amos 3:3); an unequal yoke (2 Corinthians 6:14); a secret sin (Joshua 7:18-23); some impurity (Isaiah 52:11); an unforgiving spirit (Matthew 18:21-22), or an unfulfilled vow (Deuteronomy 23:21)? – look up Proverbs 28:13, and compare Psalm 66:18. Notice the reference to obedience in Galatians 5:7.

WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? Was it something else that hindered you? Then you need to take heed to Hebrews 10:25. If you are willing and honest before the Lord and you desire to come back to Him, He will put His finger upon the hindering thing in your life, and when He does so be sure to obey John 2:5 – and get right with God.

WHERE DID YOU GO WRONG? The only life that is glorifying to God, that is pleasing to others and that is really satisfying to ourselves, is the life that is running well, the life that is lived in complete obedience to the truth – to the Lord Jesus who is the truth (John 14:6) – and to His Word, the Word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15)

THE SINFUL NATURE VERSUS THE SPIRIT

(Galatians 5: 16-26)

It was characteristic of the late Canon Guy King to call a sermon on Galatians 5:19-23 – “From the Slum to the Orchard”! (Verses 19-21 describe the slum; verses 22-23 describe the orchard). It is God’s will that we, who by nature are in the slum, should be translated into the orchard; that we should be made new creatures in Christ Jesus and that the fruit of the Spirit should be produced in us. In Galatians 5:16-26, there is a progressive line of teaching concerning the two-fold nature of the believer. Let us consider this very important doctrine.

Before we are born again and become Christians we possess a sinful, fallen, depraved nature. The expression “the sinful nature” occurs in verse 16, twice in verse 17 and in verses 19 and 24, and it is the Bible description for unregenerate human nature. The “sinful nature” is also called “our old man” - look up Romans 6:6; “your old self” - look up Ephesians 4:22; and Colossians 3:9. The “sinful nature” is wholly evil and is incapable of improvement - look up Romans 7:18. See also Genesis 6:5, 11-12; Isaiah 1:5-6; Jeremiah 17:9; Matthew 7:21-23; Romans 1:26-32 and 2 Timothy 3:1-7
When we are born again we receive a new nature, a spiritual nature.

This is imparted by the Holy Spirit and it is described as “the new self” – look up Ephesians 4:24 and Colossians 3:10. How very wonderful this is! When we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ we actually “participate in the divine nature” – look up 2 Peter 1:4; we receive and share the very life of God.

Every Christian, therefore, possesses two natures – the old and the

new. All who have been born again possess the sinful nature, which they inherited from Adam, and the divine nature, which they received when they were born again – look up John 3:6. These two natures are co-resident within every Christian, and it is very important to understand that when we are born again and receive the new nature we do not lose the old nature, nor indeed shall we lose the old nature until we see the Lord and are transformed into His likeness – look up 1 John 3:2. The old nature is incapable of any change or improvement, and it is quite impossible to be rid of it, though we may have victory over it. Thus, it is true that every Christian has within him the old, evil, corrupt Adamic nature, and the new divine nature.

These two natures, which co-exist within every Christian, are exact

opposites and are in constant conflict the one with the other. One is evil, the other is good; one is corrupt, the other is pure; one is inherited from the first Adam, the other is inherited from the “last Adam” – and these two natures are in constant conflict – look at verse 17 and see how clearly this is brought out, and how vividly it describes the experience of every Christian – compare Romans 7:18-24 with Galatians 5:17.

The old sinful nature manifests itself in “acts” which are very

horrible. Verses 19-21 tell us this, and they describe the acts of the sinful nature. Notice:

The word “acts”. It is plural and it describes the striving, the efforts and the endeavours of the sinful nature.
The word “obvious” (verse 19). Paul tells us that the works of the sinful nature are evident – we only have to look in our own heart to see them!
The list that the apostle gives us of the works of the sinful nature is not complete, for having mentioned a number of the manifestations of the sinful nature, Paul adds the words (in verse 21) – “…and the like”.

What Paul is saying is that because we possess the old nature we are capable of any or all of these “works” because they are the works of the sinful nature. Do you wonder that God condemns the old nature? – look at Galatians 5:21.

The Holy Spirit, who imparts the new nature to the Christian,

manifests through the new nature the “fruit of the Spirit”. Notice that the word is “fruit” (singular), and not “fruits”. The Holy Spirit produces in and through the life of the Christian one glorious, harmonious whole. It is worthwhile to notice the word “but” at the beginning of verse 22. It stands between “the acts of the sinful nature” and “the fruit of the Spirit”. What does this “but” tell us? It tells us that the Holy Spirit alone can and does produce in the Christian the fruit of the Spirit, or Christ-likeness. Every real Christian wants to be more like the Lord Jesus. How can this be? Only as the Holy Spirit produces the fruit of the Spirit. (1) The Holy Spirit makes us loving (Romans 5:5); joyful (Acts 13:52; John 15:11); calm and peaceful (Philippians 4:6-7); patient (1 Peter 2:20-23); kind and gentle (Ephesians 4:30-32); good (Acts 11:24); faithful (1 Corinthians 4:2); humble (Matthew 11:29); and masters of ourselves (Romans 8:2). We can never produce this beautiful fruit – this Christ-likeness, this Christian character – in our own strength or by our own effort, any more than we can in our own strength or by our own effort overcome the works of the sinful nature. What is the way of victory?

How may the fruit of the Spirit take the place of the acts of the sinful nature? Within us we have one nature which strives to do evil, and we have the new nature through which the Holy Spirit seeks to produce the beautiful fruit of Christ-likeness. How may we be freed from the power of the sinful nature so that the fruit of the Spirit may be manifest in our lives? A three-fold secret is indicated:

Keep on Reckoning – verse 24, AV. This means that we must obey the injunction in Romans 6:11 and say by faith – Galatians 2:20.
Keep on Relying – verse 18. Recognise that you are not under the Law – that victory over the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit can never be effected by works, by striving, but by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, rely on Him to lead you into victory.
Keep on Receiving – verse 16. To live by the Spirit indicates fellowship. This means negatively – Ephesians 4:30, and positively – Ephesians 5:18

OUR PROGRAMME, PERIL AND PROSPECT

(Galatians 6: 1-9)

In this last study we consider one of the great dangers which faces us as Christians, namely, that of weariness which causes us to give up. The apostle brings this danger before us in Galatians 6:9, and in order that we may see the force of this great danger let us consider the teaching of the whole verse.

OUR PROGRAMME AS SERVANTS OF THE LORD

What is to be our task as Christians and as workers for the Lord? In Galatians 6:9 there are two words which describe Christian service, “doing good” – look up Acts 10:38, and compare John 20:21. In 1 Peter 3:17, “doing good” is contrasted with “doing evil”. In Ephesians 2:10, we read that we are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works”. No one is saved by doing good (Ephesians 2:8 and Titus 3:5), but everyone who is saved should give evidence of that fact by doing good (Titus 3:8). What does it mean to do good? Surely it consists of every act of service, whether great or small, which is done for Jesus’ sake. It may take the form of what we specifically describe as Christian work – for example, preaching, teaching, or visiting, or it may be giving a cup of cold water in the Name of the Lord (Matthew 10:42). What scope there is for doing good! In Galatians 6, several special acts of doing good are mentioned.

Giving spiritual help to others (verse 1). Too often, when our brethren or sisters are in spiritual difficulty, we criticise them or ostracise them. Take heed to the exhortation in this verse, and look up John 13:12-15.
Sharing the burdens of others (verse 2). Do we know anything about this? Here is a great ministry in which all of us may engage – look up Acts 20:35 and 1 Thessalonians 5:14. There should be a mutual sympathy flowing between Christians at all times, and especially in times of trial and testing.
Sharing what we have with others (verse 6). If we have received so much from the Lord, we should be ready to share what we have received, whether they be spiritual or temporal blessings, with those around us who are in need – look up Acts 2:44; 4:32; 2 Corinthians 9:7-15 and 1 Timothy 5:18.
Doing good generally (verse 10 – first part). What opportunities crowd in upon us for exercising this ministry! Incidentally, there is a reflex blessing in seeking to help others. We cannot engage in a ministry like this without being blessed ourselves – look up Proverbs 11:24-25.
Doing special acts of love for members of the Family (verse 10 – last part). It is our special privilege to engage in acts of doing good which will benefit those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ – look up Philippians 4:10, 14-18.

OUR PERIL AS SERVANTS OF THE LORD

What is our peril? It is that while engaged in the programme we become weary and faint. For example, if you are a Sunday School teacher, how easy it is to lose heart! One version renders this, “Let us not grow tired in well-doing”. This is the peculiar peril of every Christian. Even Paul, in writing to the Galatians about it, included himself – "Let us…” Why do we get weary and faint? Consider the following practical reasons why Christians sometimes grow weary in the Lord’s work:

It may be due to overwork. Of course, we cannot overdo our good works, but we might be wiser sometimes to do less work and do it well. It needs much grace to say, “No!” – perhaps more grace than to say “Yes!” There is the danger of “the barrenness of a busy life”.
Lack of air can cause weariness and faintness. To sleep in a room with all the windows tightly shut, with the consequent lack of fresh air, must result in lethargy. The Christian’s “native air” is prayer. It is our “vital breath”, and nearly always the cause of our faintness is failure in our prayer life – look up Luke 18:1.
It may equally be lack of food. Just as lack of material food will cause a physical collapse, so lack of spiritual food will cause a spiritual collapse. Doing good is giving out, and you cannot give out until you have first taken in. We must feed upon the Word of God – look up Job 23:12.
It may be due to insufficient sleep. It is essential that we learn to rest on the promises of God; to fail to do this will certainly bring weariness and faintness – look up Psalm 119:165 and Isaiah 26:3.
One more reason – it may be due to discouragement. This always comes from the Devil. Dr Weymouth renders Galatians 6:9, “Do not lose heart…” If you have lost heart please turn at once to 1 Samuel 30:6!

OUR PROSPECT AS SERVANTS OF THE LORD

What is our prospect? It is that “at the proper time we will reap a harvest…” How absolutely certain this word is! No service rendered to or for the Lord is ever lost or will ever go unrewarded – compare Psalm 126:6. The words “will return … carrying sheaves with him” means just that; and Ecclesiastes 11:1 – (notice the words “you will”); and 1 Corinthians 15:58 – (notice the word “know”).

What is our safeguard against the peril of becoming weary and of fainting? Look up Isaiah 40:28-31 and Hebrews 12:3. May God give us grace to enter whole-heartedly upon our God-given programme, to avoid the perils which constantly face us and to live in the light of the glorious prospect which is ever before us.

“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

CHAPTER 10 LOT: A SAVED SOUL - A LOST LIFE

( Genesis 12: 1-5; 13: 1-13; 14: 1-16; and 19: 1-38)

In this series of studies we shall concentrate our attention upon ten Old Testament characters. There is no better way to encourage ourselves and one another than by studying the lives of men and women who have served God in the past – look up Romans 15: 4. But this line of study will also bring us solemn warnings about the dangers and pitfalls which confront us – look up

1 Corinthians 10: 11-12. This series, therefore, will provide us with a balance of encouragements and warnings.

We begin with a word of warning, as we read and study the character of Lot. The scripture references above make very sad reading. They tell us about a man who was saved, as is made clear when he is referred to as “that righteous man” in 2 Peter 2: 6 – 9. In New Testament language, Lot was a saved man, but he was only just saved; he was a worldly Christian who had a saved soul but a lost life, because he lived for self and was in bondage to the things of time and sense, and he became engulfed in and succumbed to the evils of his time. Notice the following main lines of teaching which we extract from the sad story of Lot.

Lot walked by sight and not by faith. The true hallmark of the believer is that he walks by faith and not by sight – look up 2 Corinthians 5: 7; but the worldly believer reverses the order – look up Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1: 17; Galatians

3: 11 and Hebrews 10: 38. Lot lived by sight, and this is most of all apparent in the selfish, carnal choice he made – read about it in Genesis 13: 1-11, and compare

2 Corinthians 4: 18. The worldly Christian lays up treasure on earth and has little or no treasure in Heaven – look up Matthew 6: 19-20; and the worldly Christian, walking by sight, is governed by the world’s wisdom and standards – look up

1 Corinthians 2: 2-7 and 1 John 2: 15-17.

Lot made his home and reared his children in wicked Sodom. He deliberately chose to do so, as we learn from Genesis 13: 12-13. At first, Lot only pitched his tent towards Sodom, but later we find him living in Sodom (Genesis

14: 12), a prosperous citizen of Sodom and holding a high position in the civic and social life of the city. Lot was a V.I.P. in Sodom – but how sad for a child of God! He called the wicked men of Sodom “friends” (Genesis 19: 7) – so he was one of them. Probably he never intended to drift into the worldly, sensual, God-dishonouring life of Sodom, but what Christian ever intends to get away from God and to dishonour Him? Before long, his wife and children were thoroughly imbued with the worldliness of Sodom – dance-mad, pleasure-mad, drink-mad, fashion-mad, sex-mad. This picture is surely up-to-date, though it happened with Lot and his family 4000 years ago! But God’s call is to separation – look up 2 Corinthians

6: 14 – 18 and also 2 Peter 2: 20.

Lot was out of touch with God.

He lost the consciousness of the presence of God. Look up Genesis 13: 14, and notice the word “after”. How solemn! – look up Job 23: 3.
He lost the experience of the peace of God. In 2 Peter 2: 6 – 9 we are told that the wickedness of the Sodomites “distressed” the soul of Lot. Yes, his conscience was troubled and it “stung” him – look up Isaiah 57: 20-21. How could he know peace in his heart when he was enmeshed by the world and by worldly people?
He lost the power of God – if he had ever had it! Instead of being a power for God he had become a weak, worldly, failing, disobedient man. His case was rather like that of Samson – look up Judges 16: 4-20.

Lot had no influence for God. He did not look, walk or act like a man of God, and nobody ever dreamed that he was one. As a believer he should have exerted a powerful influence for the Lord, but because he was so weak and so worldly his influence for God counted for nothing at all.

He had no influence with the men of Sodom. We learn this from Genesis 19: 1-11, and particularly notice in verses 7 – 9 that they laughed him to scorn. The men of Sodom must have despised Lot – and the world despises a worldly, “make-believe” Christian.
He had no influence with his children. We learn this from Genesis 19: 8; this is a verse to make us shudder, but is there a sadder verse in the whole Bible than Genesis 19: 14?
He had no influence with his own wife. We learn this from Genesis 19: 26, which tells the solemn story of her disobedience and her tragic end.

Lot went from bad to worse and he became hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. In Genesis 19: 15-16, we read that Lot “hesitated” – which tells us that his conscience was seared (1 Timothy 4: 2). How slow he was to obey God, even when God had warned him of impending judgment! – look up

2 Thessalonians 1: 7 – 9. These are some of the most solemn words in the Bible.

Lot lost his honour and was involved in shame with his own daughters. The awful story of debauchery, weakness, deceit, drunkenness and incest is told in Genesis 19: 30-38. Scripture does not gloss over men’s sins. Let us be warned and take heed as we read this sad, sad story. The result was that two illegitimate children were born – Moab and Ammon – from whom came the bitterest enemies of ancient Israel – the Moabites and the Ammonites. Sin, if it is harboured, goes on working in the heart and in the life, and eventually it leads to shame and tragedy – even to members of one’s own family.
Finally, Lot was literally “saved; yet so as by fire.” He was “plucked out of the fire” – look up Zechariah 3: 2, and compare 1 Corinthians 3: 15 and Jude 23.

Every believer will have to appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ – look up Romans 14: 10. There, we shall either be rewarded for faithfulness, or we shall suffer loss because, like Lot, we have lived an easy-going, careless, worldly life. All believers will be saved, but some will be saved “yet so as by fire” – look up and seriously consider 1 Corinthians 3: 11-15.

LOT’S WIFE: A SOLEMN WARNING

(Genesis 19: 1-29; Luke 17: 22-37)

Lot was saved, but only just saved. Lot’s wife, the character we shall consider in this study, was almost saved, but she was lost – look up Genesis 19: 17 and 24-26. The story of this woman was referred to by the Lord Jesus when He was warning of judgment, and He referred to the days of Noah (Luke 17: 26-27) and to the days of Lot (verses 28-29). He was (and is) the Truth (John 14: 6), and He always spoke the truth. He never spoke one word out of place. The events recorded in Genesis were actual historical events, and the stories we read there are not folklore or fables; they are factual historical events, and authenticated by the Lord Himself. “Remember Lot’s wife,” He said, and then warned His hearers of the swift and terrible judgment which overtook her. He said this in connection with His second coming, which leads us to link up some of the most terrible words in the Bible – look up 2 Thessalonians 1: 7 – 9. Do not be tempted to water down or weaken the force and truth of these solemn words. “Remember Lot’s wife” (Luke 17: 32), and who it is who enjoins us to do this, and why. There are five things in particular that we should remember about her.

Remember: Lot’s wife perished, although she was a woman of great privilege. She was the wife of Lot who was “a righteous man”, a believer – yet she perished. All through the years Lot had believed in God, he had prayed to Him and had worshipped Him, yet Mrs Lot remained outside, without a like faith in the Lord. Presumably these two, husband and wife, not only lived together but they slept together; they did everything together – and yet when the crisis-time came Lot was saved and his wife was lost. There is only one judgment for the man or woman who has not repented -–look up Luke 13: 3, and see this awful word “perish” in John 3: 16; 1 Corinthians 1: 18 – and Hebrews 2: 3. In this connection look up and see the significance of Matthew 24: 40-42.
Remember: Lot’s wife perished although she had had a clear warning of her danger. You see, Lot’s wife could never say that she had not heard about God or heard His warning that judgment was about to fall on Sodom – look at Genesis 19: 14-17. There must be people today who have not heard of judgment to come, simply because no one has told or warned them. But that was not the case with Lot’s wife – and that can never be the case with those of us sharing this Bible Study. The danger of every unsaved soul is very terrible. All who have not received Christ as their personal Saviour, all who have not come to Him and placed their faith in Him, are condemned (John 3: 18); the wrath of God abides on them (John 3: 36); they cannot go to be where Jesus is, and if they die in this state they will die in their sins (John 8: 21). Yes, and that means eternal banishment from God’s presence (Revelation 20: 15).
Remember: Lot’s wife perished although she made some effort to be saved. From the record we learn that she rose up early with Lot, and together they set out to leave the city of Sodom – but she did not make it. She needed the security of the city of refuge – Zoar. She never reached Zoar; she perished on the way. It is not enough for men and women today to try their best to leave the bad things behind and to do the good things – such as going to church, reading the Bible, giving up bad habits…He, the Lord Jesus, is the only safe and sure Refuge – look up Hebrews 6: 18. We are not saved by works, but by personal trust in the Lord Jesus – look up Romans 4: 5; Ephesians 2: 8-10 and Titus 3: 5 – 7.

Not the labour of my hands,

Can fulfil Thy law’s demands:

Could my zeal no respite know,

Could my tears for ever flow,

All for sin could not atone;

Thou must save, and Thou alone.

Remember: Lot’s wife perished although she committed only one sin. The command was to “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back” (Genesis 19: 17); but she “looked back…” (verse 26) – and she perished. The sin of unbelief is the one and only sin which is needed to bring total and final spiritual disaster – look up John 16: 7 – 11.
Remember: Lot’s wife perished although she was almost saved. The judgment of God fell upon her not when she was miles or yards away from the place of safety, but when she was at the very gates of Zoar. How true it is to observe that this woman was almost saved – but she was lost! She was almost within the gates of mercy, but she was outside…. How very solemn this is!

“Remember Lot’s wife…” May the solemn truth of this study stir us to a deeper concern to seek those who are perishing, that we may bring them to Jesus. The doom of Lot’s wife was very terrible, but no more terrible than will be the doom of every lost sinner. If we believe this we shall make quite sure of our own salvation, and then we shall seek the enabling of the Holy Spirit to warn those who do not know the Lord Jesus as their Saviour of the danger which awaits them – look up Psalm 51: 14; Ezekiel 3: 18; Matthew 3: 7; Acts 20: 31; 2 Corinthians 5: 11 and Colossians 1: 28.

And Preachers - there is great need to bring this warning note back into our preaching! We must call upon men and women not only to believe – look up Acts 16: 31; but to repent and believe – look up Mark 1: 15. Then, we must warn them of the danger of failing to do so. It is only when we are aware of our terrible danger that we seek deliverance.

RAHAB: THE WONDROUS GRACE OF GOD

( Hebrews 11:31; Joshua 2: 1-24; 6: 17, 20-25)

God never condones or excuses sin, but He has made a way whereby sinful and failing men and women may find deliverance from the penalty and the power of sin, and that way is the way of faith - faith, (as we shall see in this study), in One who shed His blood for us and whose precious blood was so beautifully typified in the “sure sign” of Rahab, “the line of scarlet cord” which guaranteed and secured her safety and the safety of “her family and all who belonged to her” – look up Joshua 2: 12 and l8; 6: 25 – and compare Hebrews 11: 31. Are we surprised when we read that “by faith the harlot (of all people!) Rahab perished not with them that believed not” (Hebrews 11: 31)? Can a sinner be translated from a house of shame into the Hall of Fame? Yes! – look up Colossians 1: 13. Does the grace of God take a prostitute out of the land of Canaan and place her into the line of Christ? Yes! – look up Proverbs 28: 13, and see in it a wonderful illustration of God’s way of salvation. Notice Rahab’s faith – how it began, how it operated, how it was manifested and what it accomplished.

Rahab was a common sinner, yet she was saved by grace, through faith. That of course is the only way for a sinner to be saved – look up Ephesians 2: 8-10, and compare Titus 3: 5. Rahab was a pagan and she lived in spiritual darkness, among people who were given up to idolatry – look up John 3: 19-21. She was a prostitute, (or possibly an innkeeper, as the word may mean) but God loved her – look up John 3: 16, and compare Luke 7:

36-50 and John 8: 3-11 – and also Romans 3: 22-23 and James 2: 10. Our need now is as great as hers was then! She entertained residents and visitors in her house on the wall – look up Joshua 2: 15.

Rahab’s faith began, where all true faith begins, by hearing God’s Word. Twice we are told that she said, “We have heard…” - compare Joshua 2: 10 and 11; and because she had heard, and because she believed what she had heard, she was able to say, “I know…” – look up Joshua 2: 9. Faith takes God at His word and reckons on it – compare Romans 4: 20-2l. We are saved in the same way as Rahab was saved. We hear the gospel – look up John

5: 24; we hear that we are under condemnation, and we tremble – look up Joshua 2: 11; John 3: 18 and 3: 36; and by faith, by taking God at His Word, by trusting Him, we are saved – look up Acts 16: 30-31!

Rahab confessed her faith to the spies. She was not a secret believer. Notice the difference between a mere intellectual faith and a real heart faith. In Joshua 2: 10 she says, “We have heard…” (that presumably included many of the inhabitants of Jericho); but in verse 9, she says, “I know that the Lord…” Many in Jericho heard about the Lord and about His power and they believed about Him, but Rahab believed in Him and she trusted Him. Now turn to Romans 10: 9-10, and particularly notice the word “heart”. It is not enough to believe with our head; we must trust, and this has to do with our heart. Then, after believing in, or with, our heart, we must confess Him with our mouth and in our lives – look up Matthew 10: 32-33.
Rahab’s faith was demonstrated by her works. Works are the evidence of faith – look up James 2: 25, and compare Ephesians 2: 10 and Philippians

2: 12-13. Where faith is real it will be seen. The evidence of Rahab’s faith was that she hid the spies (Joshua 2: 1, 4 and 6); that she confessed to the spies (verses 9–12), and that she sent the spies away (verse 16). But the greatest and most striking evidence of Rahab’s faith was the scarlet cord, mentioned in Joshua 2: 18, for this cord was the “sure sign” (verse 12) that she believed the word of the spies. While the cord was in the window Rahab knew she was safe – compare Joshua 2: 21 with Exodus 12: 12-13. The only safe refuge for a guilty sinner is the blood of Jesus – look up 1 John 1: 7.

Rahab’s faith involved a radical change. Because she believed on the Lord, her life was transformed. For her, a believer, it meant leaving the doomed city, being separated from her people (the Canaanites), and throwing in her lot with the people of God. She certainly turned to God from idols, and everything became new – look up and compare 2 Corinthians 5: 17 and 1 Thessalonians 1: 9. A real work of grace in the heart will always lead to a real change in the life.
Rahab’s faith reached out and encompassed her friends and loved ones. This is made clear in Joshua 2: 12-13. What a lovely thing it is to see this woman showing a great concern for the salvation of her family and friends! She was like Esther – look up Esther 8: 6; she was like Andrew – look up John 1: 40-42; she was like Philip – look up John 1: 43-49; and she was like the woman of Sychar – look up John 4: 28-30. Do we have any real concern for the members of our own family and for our friends who do not know the Saviour, and are we seeking their salvation?
Rahab’s faith brought her into a position of great honour and it made her the special channel of God’s blessing. God’s grace is very wonderful! This woman Rahab, who had now been brought into living relationship with the Lord, was given a godly husband, and as the result of their union she became the mother of Boaz, the great-grandfather of King David – look up Ruth 4: 21-22, and compare Matthew 1: 5-6 and 16; and as you conclude this study be sure to read Joshua 6: verses 21, 22, 23 and 25 – and Isaiah 1: 18 –

“Come now, and let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be as wool.”

CALEB: WHOLEHEARTED FOLLOWING

(Joshua 14: 1-15)

On six separate occasions the Holy Spirit has recorded the fact that Caleb wholly followed the Lord. In a day when some who believed in God were content simply to follow, Caleb followed wholly, whole-heartedly – look up Numbers 14: 24; 32: 11-12; Deuteronomy 1: 36; Joshua 14: 8, 9 and 14. Are you a whole-hearted Christian, or are you only a half-hearted Christian?

There were three witnesses to the fact that Caleb wholeheartedly followed the Lord, and the same will be true of us if we are wholehearted for Him.

Caleb himself was the first witness. See what he was able to say of himself – look up Joshua 14:8. This was not a sinful boast; it was a sincere testimony. Can we say the same concerning the past years, months, days, day or hour?
Moses was the second witness. See what he said of Caleb in Joshua 14: 9. If we are wholly following the Lord we not only know it in our own hearts, but those around us know it also. What do our unconverted friends say about our following?
The Lord was the third witness. See what He said of His servant in Numbers 14: 24. Can the Lord, who knows the hearts of all men, say that of us? This is the supreme test, and the thing which matters most: what does the Lord say about my following?

These three testimonies suggest three great motives or reasons why we should wholeheartedly follow the Lord.

That God may be glorified. There is only one kind of life that really glorifies Him, and that is the life that is wholeheartedly given over to Him. His command to every one of us is that we should be holy (Leviticus 20: 7; Hebrews 12: 14) – whole! – look up John 5: 6 and 1 Peter 1: 15-16.
That others may be edified. Which life is the greater power and influence for the Lord - the life that is wholeheartedly His or the life that is only half His? One reason why the gospel is not making greater progress in the world is that many Christians who are whole-hearted in everything else they do are only half-hearted in their Christian living.
That I may be satisfied. This may sound a selfish motive, but it is not really selfish. We all seek satisfaction, and true satisfaction is only found in wholeheartedly following the Lord Jesus. It was at the end of his life that Caleb said – Joshua 14: 8.

What does it mean to follow the Lord wholeheartedly? What does it imply?

Following the Lord wholeheartedly implies concentration. To follow the Lord wholly means to concentrate all, everything, on doing this one thing. We get a perfect illustration of this in the case of the apostle Paul, who said – look up Philippians 3: 13. Paul was determined to do one thing, and one thing only, and that was to follow the Lord wholeheartedly. To follow the Lord wholeheartedly implies an undivided loyalty – look up the searching words of our Lord in Matthew 6: 24. Here is the whole idea of concentration and absolute allegiance to our one rightful Lord and Master – look up Matthew 23: 10; John 13: 13, and compare the words of Psalm 16: 8.
Following the Lord wholeheartedly implies completeness, i.e., following the Lord completely. To follow Him completely means to follow Him utterly, absolutely, with heart and soul, and without any reservation – compare Luke 9: 61. It means to follow Him in all that we are, in all that we do and in all that we say, and to do this wherever we are and under every circumstance – completely: my heart to love Him, my will to obey Him, my mind to think for Him, my feet to run for Him, my voice to sing for Him, my hands to work for Him, my eyes to see for Him and my lips to speak for Him. It means more than giving Him all that we have; it means yielding to Him all that we are – look up Romans 6: 13. God wants our gifts and talents, but most of all He wants – us!
Following the Lord wholeheartedly implies constancy. Most of us are far too intermittent in our following. We follow wholeheartedly one day, and only half-heartedly the next! – look up Luke 22: 33, where Peter’s intention was undoubtedly to follow the Lord wholly, and Luke 22: 54, where we read that he completely failed to do this. Peter was not constant. To follow the Lord wholly is to follow Him all the time, and to go on following Him all the time. It means to be a Christian of set purpose – look up Luke 9: 51, and compare Psalm 16: 8.

4. What is the secret of wholeheartedly following the Lord? Who is sufficient for these things? We cannot wholly follow the Lord in our own strength. Yet Caleb did wholly follow – so what secret did he learn? It is an open secret, and Numbers 14: 24 reveals it. Caleb wholeheartedly followed the Lord because he had a different spirit with him Now, this is very important; do not fail to look up and compare John 14: 16-17 – “another Comforter…”! Yes, that is the secret: strength and power to follow the Lord wholly is not in ourselves, but it is in the Holy Spirit, and with the Holy Spirit indwelling and infilling us we can then do as Caleb did – wholly, fully, follow Him, our glorious Lord!

SAUL: THE SNARE OF SPIRITISM

(1 Samuel 28: 3 – 25)

As you read this section of scripture you will agree that there is a fearful pathos about the story as well as a solemn warning concerning the perils of this ancient and modern heresy. Why is it that people get involved with witchcraft, sorcery and the occult? Well, why did Saul? Because he was out of touch with God, depressed and troubled. Many people today, in times of bereavement and sorrow, seek comfort by trying to get into communication with their departed loved ones. It is quite evident that the Witch of Endor did not expect Samuel to speak, much less to appear (verse 12). This incident is therefore a strong argument against the theory that the medium actually contacts those who have departed, and it is an argument for what many believe to be the case -–that the voices heard in seances are in reality the voices of evil spirits who impersonate the dead. The fact that Samuel, and not an impersonating spirit, did appear and speak was a great shock to the Witch, and to Saul, and it was due to a direct intervention of God.

There are seven clear statements about Spiritism and every form of the occult which provide us with seven reasons for rejecting it.

Spiritism is one of Satan’s snares. Be sure about this: it is not of God, but of the Devil. The great objective of Satan is to blind the minds of men and women – look up 2 Corinthians 4: 4. This is the explanation of the presence of so many false religions and cults in the world today. It is the Devil’s way of blinding men and women to the truth. He does not mind their being religious and enthusiastic about some doctrine so long as they are kept in the dark as to the truth of God - so beware, be warned, Spiritism is not only a form of bondage to Satan but it is also a kind of Satan-worship. All who dabble in Spiritism, or any other form of the occult, are accepting the lies of the Devil rather than the revelation of God – look up 2 Thessalonians 2: 1-12.
Spiritism, when resorted to, indicates a state of unbelief and backsliding. No soundly converted Christian who is living in touch with the Lord can possibly have recourse to Spiritism. Anybody, anywhere, who is engaged in spiritist practices is either an unbeliever or a believer who has got out of touch with the Lord – as was the case with Saul, as we learn from verse 6. How sad it is when a Christian, through being overwhelmed with bereavement or sorrow, turns aside from the God of all comfort to that which issues from the god of this age – the Devil himself! – look up 2 Corinthians 1: 3 – 4.
Spiritism is on the increase and is one of the signs of the last days. Probably there has never been a time when this heresy has abounded more than it does today, and in a way this encourages us, for it announces the near return of our Lord Jesus Christ – look up 1 Timothy 4: 1 – 2; it indicates that we are living in “the latter” times. Be quite convinced of this, that although there is much fraud in Spiritism, there is also a very great deal of reality. Those who go to seances do hear voices and mutterings, and they do see visions, but they are thoroughly deceived in thinking they are listening to the actual voice of their loved one or are looking upon the actual form of their loved one. It is a simple matter for the Devil, whose knowledge is very great, to send an impersonating spirit to anyone who is breaking the laws of God and who is out of touch with Him.
Spiritism is described in Scripture as one of the works of the flesh. Look up and read Galatians 5: 19-20; it is certainly not one of the fruits of the Spirit – look up Galatians 5: 22-23. Of everyone who professes to be a Christian and at the same time professes to believe in and dabble in Spiritism, the question needs to be asked: Have you crucified the flesh, that “work” of the flesh which is “witchcraft”? – look up Galatians 5: 24–25.
Spiritism is an abomination to the Lord, and therefore it is emphatically and explicitly forbidden in His Word. How can anyone whose eyes have once been opened to the truth of God turn to Spiritism when God in His Word so clearly warns us against this peril? Carefully read the following selected scriptures:- Exodus 22: 18; Leviticus 19: 26, 3l; 20: 6, 27; Deuteronomy 18: 10–12; 2 Chronicles 33: 6; Isaiah

8: 19-20; Acts 16: 16-18 and 19: 19, and add to these the other scripture references included in this study in which we are warned not to have anything to do with Spiritism.

Spiritism is an enemy of the Christian Faith. So-called Christian Spiritualist Churches and professing Christians who are engaging in and advocating the methods of Spiritism are in reality wolves in sheep’s clothing - look up Matthew 7: 15. To be a true Spiritist one must reject the Word of God, and anyone who does this is an enemy of the Christian faith. Notice that: (1) Spiritists reject the inspiration and authority of the Scriptures; (2) have a conception of God, of Christ, of the Holy Spirit and of the Church which is unscriptural and, indeed, blasphemous; (3) do not accept the atoning virtue of the blood of Christ; (4) believe in salvation by works; and (5) deny the existence of evil spirits, of the Devil, of judgment and of Hell, and they minimise sin.
Spiritism can only lead to disappointment, disillusionment, darkness, despair and final destruction. It is damaging physically, mentally, morally, spiritually and eternally – look up and compare Revelation 21: 8 and 22: 15. If you have any connection at all with Spiritism, renounce the whole thing – look up 2 Corinthians 6: 14-18! If you know any Spiritists or any who are becoming ensnared by Spiritism – pray for them! Be sure to read 1 Chronicles 10: 13–14.Of course, what we have said with great care, but also with great certainty, applies equally to every form of the occult. Many years ago, Dr A. T. Pierson issued the following warning:-

“To meddle with this awful realm of spirits may bring us under the sway of malignant supernatural agents and forces. Not only God, but wicked spirits wield weapons which, to us, are superhuman and supernatural…The devil can sway man by powers which belong to a higher realm; and to dare to invade those forbidden precincts is to venture into an unknown territory, and run corresponding risks, risks which are proportionate to the success of our experiment!

This means that we must “believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God…” (1 John 4: 1). How can we test them?

Is what they say in harmony with the Word of God (Isaiah 8: 19-20)?
Do they confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh (1 John 4: 3)?

Study 6

QUEEN OF SHEBA: A ROYAL VISIT

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(1 Kings 10: 1 – 13)

In Matthew 12: 42, the Lord Jesus authenticated the historical accuracy of this beautiful story of the queen’s visit to the king. She was a wealthy woman, and she lived and ruled in what is now Ethiopia. King Solomon reigned in Jerusalem, and he was not only wealthy and powerful, but he was also very wise. Between Jerusalem and Ethiopia were trade routes by sea and by camel caravans. Thus, there was considerable commercial activity in fragrant spices, precious stones and gold, and it was along this caravan route that the queen travelled to visit the king. As we consider this graphic and heart-gripping story, we shall notice the steps by which men and women may come to the One who declared Himself to be greater than Solomon – even Jesus Christ our Lord – and how they may discover in Him all that they need for time and for eternity.

WHAT SHE HEARD. Verse 1 tells us that she heard of the fame, the wisdom and the riches of King Solomon – look up 1 Kings 4: 29–31. We are not told how she heard all this, but presumably someone came down from the north, by land or sea, by camel or ship, and told her of the king. Hearing is the first step towards entering in to any spiritual blessing – look up John 5: 24 and Romans 10: 17. Have you heard of the love of God in Christ and of the fame of our King, the Lord Jesus? What a responsibility rests upon those of us who have heard! – look up Romans 10: 12 –15.
WHAT SHE DID. Verse 2 tells us that “she came to Jerusalem with a very great caravan, with camels…spices…gold…precious stones…” What a sight it must have been, and what a hazardous and long journey it was for a royal personage in those far-off days! But any journey is worthwhile if it brings us into touch with the King! The sad thing is that there are so many today who have heard of Him, but they have not come to Him. His invitation to them is clear (Matthew 11: 28), and His guarantee is certain (John 6: 37), but still they do not come to Him – look up John 5: 40. Is it true that you have heard what a wonderful Saviour and King He is, and you know your need of Him – and yet you have not come to Him? The queen opened her heart to the king (verse 2), and she brought all her problems to him for solution (verse 1). To whom else can we turn in our time of need? – look up John 6: 68.
WHAT SHE FOUND. Verse 3 tells us this. She found that there was nothing she asked Solomon concerning which he was not able and ready to give an entirely satisfactory answer – and this is absolutely true of the Lord Jesus Christ – look up Colossians 2: 3. He is the One who can give an authoritative answer to all our questions and a solution to all our problems.

For example:-

Question: How can I have my sins forgiven? Answer: Acts 13: 38.
Question: What must I do to be saved? Answer: Acts 16: 31.
Question: Is there any other who can save me? Answer: Acts 4: 12.
Question: Can I be sure He will receive me? Answer: John 6: 37.
Question: Can I be cleansed from all sin? Answer: 1 John 1: 7.
Question: Surely I must work to be saved? Answer: Romans 4: 5.
Question: Shall I ask Him now? Answer: Romans 10: 13.

WHAT SHE SAW. Verses 4 and 5 tell us this.

She saw his wisdom. (1 Corinthians 1: 24; Ephesians 1: 8).
She saw his house. Have you recognised the wonderful house that our King is building (Ephesians 2: 19-22)?
She saw his table laden with good things. (Psalm 23: 1; 34: 10).
She saw his servants – his cup-bearers, his ministers and their apparel.
She saw “the burnt offerings he made…” (Compare Hebrews 10: 19-22).

And what happened when the queen saw all this? The end of verse 5 tells us. She was overcome, humbled. Seeing the Lord always results in a deep humbling – compare Job 40: 4; Isaiah 6: 5; Acts 9: 4 and Revelation 1: 17.

WHAT SHE SAID. We get this in verses 6 – 9; and as those who have

come to Christ and have trusted Him as Lord and Saviour, we can say the same.

She said: “The report I heard……is true” – look up John 4: 42.
She said: “I did not believe…until I came and saw”
She said: “Not even half was told me.”

Verse 8 makes us consider whether the Queen of Sheba felt that the king’s servants had something that she did not possess. Do you feel that those who belong to Christ have experienced something that is lacking in your life, for which you long?

WHAT SHE GAVE. Verse 10 tells us this – “gold…spices…precious

stones”, and in what abundance! Most of us can never give the Lord such valuable gifts, but we own something that is of more value than the whole world, and we can give this to Him – look up Mark 8: 36. Have you given your soul, your life, to Him? “Love so amazing…demands my soul, my life, my all” – see also verses 11 and 12, and compare 2 Corinthians 5: 14.

WHAT SHE RECEIVED. After she had given so generously to the king,

see what the king gave to her – verse 13! –

(1) “All she desired” … (compare Psalm 37: 4)

(2) “all she asked for”… (compare John 14: 13-14)

(3) “of his royal bounty” … (compare Philippians 4: 19).

How wonderfully satisfied she was! Are you?

OBADIAH: SERVANT OF JEHOVAH

(1 Kings 18: 1 – 16)

There are no less than thirteen Obadiahs mentioned in the Old Testament, but the man we have chosen for the subject of this study is mentioned in 1 Kings 18: 1–16, and he was governor, or lord chamberlain, in the palace of King Ahab. Some have written most disparagingly about this servant of the Lord, but we read of him not only that he “feared the Lord”, but that from his youth he had “feared the Lord greatly” – verses 3 and 12. This man had his failures, and he was certainly not an Elijah, but we see in him many noble qualities. He feared the Lord in a day of apostasy, idolatry and immorality. When Elijah asked him to seek audience with the wicked King Ahab then Obadiah was very frightened, but he overcame his fear and “went to meet Ahab”, to whom he delivered the message (verse 16). Here are some main lessons to consider:

Obadiah came to know the Lord when he was quite young. We get

this, as we have noticed, in verses 3 and 12. What lies behind these words? Did Obadiah have godly parents? – for it is significant that his name means “a servant of the Lord”. What a heritage! – look up 2 Timothy 3: 15. What a blessing it is when children come to know the Lord! None are too young to come to Jesus – and none too old – look up John 3: 4. But the percentage of those who are saved in later life is very small indeed. An evangelist tested his audience of 4,500, and asked for various age groups to signify when they came to Christ. The result was:-

400 of those present were saved under 10 years of age;

600 were saved between 10 and 14;

1,000 were saved between 16 and 20;

24 only were saved after the age of 36.

The remainder in the audience were unsaved.

How important it is to seek to reach the boys and girls and young people with the gospel message with a view to leading them to Christ! – look up and read Ecclesiastes, chapter 12, and compare Proverbs 22: 6.

Obadiah not only knew the Lord, but he feared Him greatly. He

reverenced God with an intense zeal and enthusiasm and a true dedication. This is God’s desire for all His people – look up Deuteronomy 5: 29, and compare Proverbs 1: 7; 8: 13; 10: 27; 14: 26; 15: 16 and 19: 23. To fear the Lord does not mean to be possessed with a slavish fear; it means to love Him, to have a strong desire to please Him and to be “afraid” of grieving Him. Fear is an emotion which grips us, and to fear the Lord means to be gripped by a disposition to resist everything which would displease and dishonour Him.

Obadiah had continued as a faithful follower of the Lord over many years. Notice the word “since” in verse 12. Obadiah trusted God and began to serve Him when he was a mere boy, but he had continued to do so over many years – look up Acts 26: 22 and compare Luke 9: 62. It is a great thing to start, but it is greater to start and to go on! – look up Psalm 36: 3, and compare John 8: 31; 15: 9; Acts 13: 43; 14: 22; Colossians 1: 23; 1 Timothy 2: 15 and 2 Timothy 3: 14. “It’s not the fellow who starts who succeeds, but the fellow who startsand sticks”.
Obadiah lived for the Lord and served Him in a very difficult sphere and under the most trying conditions. This God-fearing man was chief steward in Ahab’s household, and he was immediately responsible to King Ahab and to his wicked, scheming wife, Jezebel. Would it not have been better for Obadiah to seek other employment? Not necessarily - see what we are told about Joseph (Genesis 41: 41); Daniel (Daniel 2: 48); Mordecai (Esther 2: 19), and the saints in Caesar’s household (Philippians 4: 22). We are to honour the king, or the ruler whoever he is - Ahab or Nero - look up 1 Peter 2: 17.
Obadiah was well known among the Lord’s people for an act which showed deep compassion and great courage. Obadiah was quite naturally fearful – look at verses 4 and 13. He actually showed very great concern for the welfare of the sons of the prophets by hiding them and by feeding them. This was a brave thing to do, and his daring act saved many lives from suffering, starvation and death. Let us remember in our prayers the many who today are showing great courage and compassion as they live for and serve the Lord in a completely alien situation.

Obadiah, although he loved and served the Lord, was very human!

We learn this from verses 5 – 16. But – although Elijah was a man of iron, a strong, brave servant of God, he also was very human – look up 1 Kings 19:

1-3, and compare James 5: 17 – he was “a man just like ourselves.” There is encouragement here for all of us, for when we read in the Bible of those whom God raised up and used in His service we are apt to think that they were men and women of special qualities. They were, when God fashioned them, but in themselves, and apart from what the Lord was to them and made of them, they were just like ourselves. Two good verses to look up and relate to this emphasis are found in 2 Corinthians 3: 5-6, and to compare with these look up 1 Corinthians 1: 26-31.

Obadiah, by his faithfulness, made an unconscious contribution to the great and mighty victory of the Lord. Verses 15 and 16 make great reading!– and they remind us that Obadiah’s service for the Lord was a valuable link in the chain of God’s working. At the end of the day he was able to pray with the psalmist – look up Psalm 71: 17-18.

MANASSEH: OLD TESTAMENT PRODIGAL

(2 Chronicles 33: 1 – 13)

The story of Manasseh appeals to us because it is a perfect illustration of God’s dealings with men and women today. Manasseh had no thought, place or time for God; in fact, he openly defied God. Yet in a wonderful way, like the prodigal in our Lord’s parable, “he came to his senses”, and then he “came to his father” – look up and read Luke 15: 11-24. As we read the first part of the story of Manasseh we find ourselves saying, “Surely there can be no hope for such a wicked man”; but as we read on we discover how wonderful the sovereign grace of God is – that “no one is beyond redemption’s point”, no one is too bad to be saved and transformed – and the grace of God can do just that! Notice how the story of Manasseh divides into three parts.

THE MAN GOD LOVED

Who was Manasseh? He was king of Judah, and he came to the throne at the early age of twelve. He reigned for 55 years and died at the age of 67. His father was Hezekiah, of whom we read that he did right in the sight of the Lord – look up 2 Chronicles 31: 20. So Manasseh had a godly heritage – but there is absolutely no guarantee that because a man’s parents are godly then the man himself will grow up in the fear of the Lord. Hezekiah’s son was Manasseh who turned out to be one of the worst characters in the history of his times. He was a great sinner. He was like the leper who came to Jesus “covered with leprosy” – look up Luke 5: 12. But God loved him! Please read 2 Chronicles 33: 2-9, and see how wicked this man was. In spite of this, however, God loved him and longed for his salvation. Of course, God hated Manasseh’s sin, but He loved Manasseh – look up Matthew 9: 13; Luke 15: 2; 19: 10 and

1 Timothy 1: 15. We are sinners, as we learn from Isaiah 53: 6 and Romans 3: 23, and the penalty for our sin is death - look up Romans 6: 23. But God loves us, and in His mercy He calls upon us to repent and turn back to Him – look up Isaiah 1: 18 and 55: 6 – 7. When Manasseh was right away from God, God spoke to him – look at verse 10. There is the proof that God loved him and was concerned for his welfare. If God had not loved him He would have left him alone. So what did God do?

THE METHOD GOD EMPLOYED

Because God loved Manasseh He did not cast him off, but He did three things:

He let him have his fling so that he would come to the end of himself. This is exactly what happened to the Prodigal. The father did not override his son’s wish to leave home; he let him go so that he could go his own way and find out for himself that sin does not pay – look up Luke 15: 12-13.
He spoke a word of warning to him (as we have seen – look again at verse 10). One of the most solemn warnings in the Bible is found in Proverbs 29: 1; but do you not see that the very fact that God reproves us is the proof that He loves us and is concerned about us? This was true in Manasseh’s case.
He afflicted him. Yes, God did it, for this man’s good – look at verse 11, and compare Luke 15: 14-16. That was drastic action, but it was all with a view to bringing him to his senses. God knew what He was doing, as He did with Saul of Tarsus – look up Acts 9: 5. Today, God allows troubles and trials to fall heavily upon men and women in order that they may see the futility of living day after day without Him.

THE MIRACLE GOD WORKED

Miracle? Yes, a miracle indeed! – read verses 12 and 13. Have you ever seen a miracle? Well, here is one! Think of it: this same man of whom we read earlier in this chapter now sought the Lord, humbled himself before the Lord, prayed to Him and experienced a wonderful restoration and transformation! This is so up-to-date! – look up 2 Corinthians 5: 17, and compare Luke 15:

20-24.

The story of Manasseh reminds us of the testimony of John Bunyan. One day, swearing, blaspheming, godless John Bunyan heard a voice saying: “Wilt thou leave thy sins and go to Heaven, or have thy sins and go to Hell?”

John Bunyan, like Manasseh, left his sins and became a valiant servant of the Lord. But consider this question asked of him by the Lord: what does it tell us about God’s way of saving men and women?

It tells us that God is sovereign in the salvation of a sinner. It was while John Bunyan was away from God, and when he had no thought of God, that God spoke to him. The same was true of Manasseh; God took the initiative and broke into his life – look up 2 Chronicles 33: 10; He said from Heaven, “Wilt thou…?” – look up Genesis 3: 9; Jonah 2: 9; Acts 9: 3 – 5 - and compare John 6: 44.
It tells us that God calls upon man to repent. John Bunyan needed to leave his sins – and that is what repentance is: it is a change of mind that leads to a change of action – look up Isaiah 55: 7 and Acts 17: 30-31.
It tells us that while salvation is altogether the work of God, man is called upon to make a decision. The human will is brought into action – look up Deuteronomy 30: 19; Joshua 24: 15; John 5: 40 and Revelation 22: 17.
It tells us that to say “Yes” to God leads to Heaven. Yes – Heaven! – look up Revelation 2l: 1-7; John 14: 2 and 2 Corinthians 5: 8.
It tells us that to say “No” to God leads to Judgment and Hell. Yes – Hell! – look up Revelation 20: 11-15 and 2l: 8.

ISAIAH: STEPS INTO BLESSING

(Isaiah 6: 1-9)

It is the plan and purpose of God that every one of His servants should enter into an abiding experience of fulness of spiritual blessing in Jesus Christ. Many have to confess that their experience is often one of defeat and failure. What are the steps which lead to fulness of blessing – to a life of victorious living and serving? Notice the following sequence:-

The First Step: CONTEMPLATION. All vital Christian experience begins

with a vision of the Lord Jesus Christ. Isaiah was worshipping in the temple, when, suddenly, he was over-awed with a tremendous sense of the Lord’s presence – see verses 1 – 5.

He saw Jesus Christ in His pre-incarnate glory. “I saw the Lord…” (verse 1) – that is, the glory that was His before He came to earth to be our Saviour – compare John 12: 41 and 17: 5. He saw the eternal Son of God, who was (and is) one with the Father and the Holy Spirit in creation (Colossians 1: 16), and in redemption (Hebrews 1: 1-3).
He saw Him reigning. “…seated on a throne” (verse 1). The earthly throne was empty. It is wonderful in these days of uncertainty to know that there is a throne established for ever in Heaven (Psalm 45: 6).
He saw the Lord being worshipped. “…high and exalted…” (verses 1 – 2). The angelic beings were paying homage to the One who alone is worthy of their worship, and of ours.
He saw His purity and holiness (verse 3). Even the celestial beings had to cover their faces, so blinding was the awful purity of the Lord.
He saw His power. He is spoken of as “the Lord Almighty” (verses 3 and 5).
He saw His majesty. “…my eyes have seen the King” (verse 5).
He saw a glimpse of His future glory. “The whole earth is full of His glory” (verse 3). That will be true one day – look up Isaiah, chapter 35.

The Second Step: CONVICTION. This sevenfold vision of the Lord

produced in Isaiah a deep humbling and a conviction of sin – “Woe to me! I am ruined!” (verse 5); and the only thing which will produce a consciousness of sin is a vision of the Lord – look up and compare Job (42: 5 – 6); Peter (Luke 5: 8) and John (Revelation 1:17). How sinful we see ourselves to be in the light of His awful purity! We discover, with Isaiah, that sin separates from God, for the word “ruined” should literally read, “cut off” – compare Isaiah 59: 1 – 2. Sin separates from God, and in Matthew 27: 46 we have a terrible illustration of the power of sin to separate from God, when He, “who had no sin”, bore this separation for us (2 Corinthians 5: 21). What then should we do with our sin?

The Third Step: CONFESSION. In verse 5 we read that Isaiah said, “I am a man of unclean lips…” This is the only way to get rid of sin – confess it. It is no good trying to cover it; it must be forsaken – look up Proverbs 28: 13. Notice that Isaiah’s besetting sin had to do with his lips, and when he made his confession to the Lord it was not a general confession, but a particular confession. He did not say, “Woe to me…I am a sinner”; he said, “Woe to me…I am a man of unclean lips…” He confessed to the Lord the particular sin of which he had been convicted. What happens when we do this?
The Fourth Step: CLEANSING. Look at verses 6 and 7. May we suggest that:-

The “seraphs” represents the Holy Spirit.
The “live coal” speaks of the precious blood of Christ.
The “altar” speaks of Calvary’s cross.

It is when we confess our sins that the Holy Spirit applies the blood which was shed on Calvary, and we are cleansed – 1 John 1: 7 – 9. God demands clean servants. He cannot use unclean instruments – look up Isaiah 52: 11, and compare 2 Corinthians 7: 1. If we confess our sin to the Lord, we shall then be able to enjoy that intimate communion with Him which makes it possible for us to hear His voice.

The Fifth Step: CHALLENGE. Look at verse 8. “I heard the voice of the Lord…” But notice that Isaiah only heard the Lord after he had experienced the cleansing. God is wanting men and women whom He can commission and equip to go forth in His Name to preach His Word among the nations. Why do not more hear Him saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?”? Is it because of sin in the lives of God’s people? There is such desperate need today for men and women, and especially young men who will be willing to place their lives fully at the disposal of the Lord for specialised missionary work abroad and for gospel and teaching ministry at home. What comes next?
The Sixth Step: CONSECRATION. Look at verse When Isaiah

became conscious of the Lord’s need of a man he did two things:

He dedicated himself to the Lord. He said, “Here am I…”
He dedicated himself to the Lord’s service. He not only said, “Here am I…”, but he also said, “Send me” – indicating that he was willing to go just where the Lord would have him go.

It is vitally important to notice that in this matter of dedication the Lord wants us before He wants our service. He wants both, but first it must be, “Here am I…” – and then, “Send me!” Then what?

The Seventh Step: COMMISSION. “… He said, Go and tell this people”

(verse 9). Now we can see why God wanted to cleanse Isaiah’s lips; it was because He wanted him to go and tell. How wonderful that the sinning “member”, when cleansed by the Lord, is the “member” He will use for His glory! – look up Romans 6: 13. Notice to whom Isaiah had to go – the people amongst whom he dwelt. That is always true. Wherever you or I may be, it is just there that the Lord wants us to witness for Him. Fulness of blessing is to be doing God’s will in the place of His choosi

EBED-MELECH: A WORK OF RESCUE

(Jeremiah 38: 1 – 13)

The prophet Jeremiah was condemned to die (verse 4), and had been confined to prison, which was nothing more or less than a great hole dug in the ground. In this murky dungeon lay the poor prophet of the Lord (verses 6 and 9), and he was even denied food and water (verse 9). When Ebed-Melech, one of the king’s servants, a dark-skinned man of Ethiopia, heard of Jeremiah’s plight he went to the king and pleaded to be allowed to rescue him (verses 8 – 9). The king not only gave his consent, but he commanded him to take thirty other men with him to deliver Jeremiah (verse 10). Ebed-Melech effected the deliverance, and verses 11–13 describe his great work of rescue.

In this simple story we have a wonderful picture of the Lord Jesus, who, away back in eternity, seeing that mankind had been plunged into a dark dungeon of death, went into the presence of the King and offered to engage in a mission of rescue – look up Psalm 40: 7 and Revelation 13: 8 - and thus it was that He came down into the prison of our need and, by His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection, made it possible for sinful man to be saved - look up 2 Corinthians 8: 9; Galatians 4: 4 and 1 Timothy 1: 15.

But in this study there is also a most telling illustration of the way in which we, as servants of the King, are to engage in rescue work. Let us see how Ebed-Melech rescued Jeremiah, and how we are to seek and secure the deliverance of poor lost men and women who are imprisoned by sin and Satan - look up John 8: 34 and 2 Timothy 2: 26.

Ebed-Melech heard of, saw and felt the seriousness of Jeremiah’s plight. In verse 7 we are told that he “heard…” This was quite enough to make him “see” (if only in his imagination), and then to “feel” the prophet’s need - look up Lamentations 3: 51 (first phrase). He saw a man starving, sinking and under condemnation. Have you seen the souls of men like this? – look up John 3: 18 and 36; 8: 21-24; Ephesians 2: 2 – 3 and Revelation 20: 12-15. Do you feel any compassion for the lost – look up Matthew 9: 36? How we need the vision that Ebed-Melech had, for only as we see and feel the need of those who are perishing shall we be concerned for their salvation!
Ebed-Melech had an interview with the king. Verses 7–9 tell us this. What an eloquent appeal he made! – and you and I can do the same, for we can come right into the King’s presence and make known our requests to Him, and while we are in His presence He will give us instructions as to how to go about the work of rescue – look up Hebrews 10: 19-20; He will then commission us (verse 10). If you are not burdened for the souls of your loved ones and of others, then seek an interview with the King and ask Him concerning them.
Ebed-Melech sought the co-operation of others. Verses 10 and 11 tell us that on the authority of the king Ebed-Melech did this. We, too, have our King’s authority for seeking the co-operation of others for the great work of soul-winning. There is the co-operation of prayer – look up Matthew 18:19; and there are other practical forms of co-operation, as suggested in Mark 2: 3. If we are really concerned for the salvation of those around us there will be many ways in which we shall seek to secure the desired results – look up Jude 23.
Ebed-Melech had faith in the means of salvation. Look at verse 11 – can you not see Ebed-Melech testing the strength of the ropes? We must have absolute confidence in the power of our Saviour, and of the gospel, to save completely all for whose salvation we are working – look up Romans 1: 16 and Hebrews 7: 25. Some Christian workers and preachers seem to have lost faith in the saving power of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the efficacy, today, of the simple and sufficient message of the gospel. They question the strength of the rope!
Ebed-Melech showed his love for Jeremiah. He not only showed it by seeking his salvation – look at verse 11 – but he used ropes and rags, which would prevent the ropes from chafing under his arms. How wonderful! Jeremiah could have been saved without the rags, and yet he was saved so much more “comfortably” with them. If those around us are convinced that we love them they will be easy prey to our soul-winning efforts – look up Mark

10: 21!

Ebed-Melech knew how to instruct Jeremiah in the way of salvation. Read verse 12 and picture the scene. Do you know how to lead a soul to Christ? Can you tell a sinner what to do to be saved? It is as well to be prepared for this great work. Take your Bible and seek to become thoroughly familiar with all the great “salvation” verses. Memorise them with their references, and you may decide to underline them in your Bible and make a quick reference index of them on its inside cover.
Ebed-Melech did not rest until Jeremiah was saved. In the case of the prophet the whole business of rescue did not take long (verse 13), but sometimes it takes a very long time, during which there is need for the exercise of a great deal of patience and wisdom before the one for whose salvation we long is brought to the Lord. Look up Galatians 6:9.

Once Jeremiah was saved, Ebed-Melech faded out of the picture. That is how it should be with the soul-winner – look up Acts 8: 39, and compare John 3: 30.

A TRUE CHRISTIAN

HOW PETER BEGINS HIS LETTER

(2 Peter 1:1-2; Romans 10:1-13)

In his first Letter, Peter writes to give encouragement to believers who were being severely tested because of their faith in the Lord Jesus. Here in his second Letter he writes to warn them about dangers that have come into the church which would increasingly affect the work and testimony of the Lord. It is because we are in constant need of this two-fold ministry of encouragement and warning that these letters are helpful today. This second Letter was addressed to Jewish Christians in about AD 68, but the message is for every Christian in every age. In the two opening verses the writer introduces himself and lays before us some very important truths of the Christian faith:-

The First Truth: The Miracle of Conversion

Notice that Peter introduces himself as ‘Simon Peter’. ‘Simon’ was the name given to him at birth and at his circumcision; ‘Peter’ was given to him at his rebirth and after his great declaration (Matthew 16:18). ‘Simon’ speaks of the old, unregenerate man before he knew the Lord, but ‘Peter’ speaks of the new, converted man. Only the miracle of conversion produces this transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17), and as Christians we should be able to speak of an ‘old’ and a ‘new’ in our spiritual experience. Romans 1:16 is still true and this power transforms the sinner into a saint; it changes ‘Simon’ into ‘Peter’.

The Second Truth: The Glorious Service

In verse 1 Peter calls himself “a servant…of Jesus Christ”. The word for ‘servant’ is ‘doulos’, which means ‘a slave’. Peter describes himself as a slave of Christ, and every Christian should be just that! – look up and compare Moses (Deuteronomy 34:5; Psalm 105:26 and Malachi 4:4); Joshua (Joshua 24:19); David (2 Samuel 3:18 and Psalm 78:70); Paul (Romans 1:1; Philippians 1:1 and Titus 1:1); James (James 1:1); and Jude (Jude 1). To be a slave of the Lord means three things:

Being possessed by the Lord. It means being His property, just as the slave in the ancient world belonged to his master.
Being at the disposal of the Lord. Masters could do anything they chose with their slaves. This should be our attitude to our Master (2 Samuel 15:15).
It involves absolute obedience to the Lord, best illustrated in the question of Saul of Tarsus in Acts 9:6.

The slave of Jesus Christ gladly acknowledges that he is possessed by the Lord; he wants to be at His disposal, his one desire is to obey Him, and in all this he is motivated by love for the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:14).

The Third Truth: The Divine Calling

Peter describes himself as “an apostle of Jesus Christ”. If an apostle is a special messenger, how did Peter become one? Was it by self-appointment? No, it was by the special calling of the Lord (Mark 1:17; John 21:15-17); compare John 15:16 with Acts 13:1-4. God’s special messengers are God-appointed, so what a privilege it was for Peter!

The Fourth Truth: The Way of Salvation

In verse 1 we have a clear indication of God’s method of saving men and women. What is God’s method? Is it that we should try our best and then hope God will accept us? No – this is man’s way of salvation and it is a false way which can only lead to disappointment and disaster. God’s way is that we should come as unworthy sinners and receive the salvation that is offered to us in the Lord Jesus Christ. So Peter is careful to speak here of “those who through the righteousness of our God have received a faith as precious as ours…” This is the difference between the Christian gospel and every other religious system – the difference between salvation by works and salvation by faith; man says ‘attain’ but God says ‘obtain’ (2 Timothy 2:10). Compare Ephesians 2:8-10 with Titus 3:5. Upon what are you depending for salvation?

The Fifth Truth: The Unity of all true Believers

Notice in verse 1 that Peter refers to “those who…have received a faith as precious as ours” and “our God and Saviour Jesus Christ”. These tell us that all believers are one because of the one amazing thing that they have in common; it is that they all have faith in the Person of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. They can all look up into His face and say, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Their race, background, forms of worship, may be different, but they are all one in that they are related to the Lord Jesus Christ. They enjoy unity of the Spirit (Ephesians 4:3); they are “all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). We do not have to strive for this unity – we have it already in Him, so let’s rejoice in it!

The Sixth Truth: The Importance of Growth in Grace

Notice the words “in abundance” in verse 2. It suggests constant growth of Christ’s blessings in the believer (Ephesians 3:15-21), and notice how Peter concludes this letter (2 Peter 3:18). Verse 2 tells us we are to grow in “the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord”. This does not mean simply knowing about God, but knowing Him (2 Timothy 1:12; Philippians 3:10; John 14:7-9).

The Seventh Truth: The Greatest Blessing this side of Heaven

What do you think this is (verse 2)? In the Amplified New Testament we read, “May grace (God’s favour) and peace (which is perfect well-being, all necessary good, all spiritual prosperity and freedom from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts) be multiplied to you in (the full, personal, precise and correct) knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” The more we come to know Him the more will be multiplied in us the sense of God’s smile upon us and God’s peace within us.

VERY GREAT AND PRECIOUS PROMISES

(2 Peter 1:1-4; Romans 4:1-5 and 13-25)

This study is centred around the words in 2 Peter 1:4 – “…He has given us his very great and precious promises”. Notice that Peter not only describes the promises as being “great”, but “very great”; he tells us they are “precious” and that God has given them to us. God is the great Giver and His greatest gift was that of His Son (John 3:16 and 2 Corinthians 9:15). With His Son He has “graciously given us all things” – see Romans 8:32; 1 Timothy 6:17. He has given us the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5) and the great gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23; 1 John 5:11). Here, the writer tells us that God has given us wonderful promises, and someone has estimated that in the Bible there are at least 30,000 of them! In the four Gospels we have many clear promises from the Saviour’s lips, and we need to remember that promises may be couched in different terms. Think of the Jehovah titles of the Old Testament, the significance of the rainbow and of the promise that it reminds us of; read Psalm 51 and John 21, which contain the promise of restoration for the backslider; think of Jesus as our Rock, speaking to us of the promise that He will be our security and our shelter; think of the names ascribed to the Lord, such as Friend, Shepherd, Saviour; think of the marriage at Cana, which tells us of God’s provision in times of need; think of the leper who came to Jesus asking for cleansing, telling us of His promise to free us from defilement. Peter says that God’s promises are “very great and precious”. Why are they so precious?

THEIR SOURCE

They are precious because it is God who makes them. The source of any promise is very important, but when God makes a promise we can be absolutely sure He will honour His word. We may make a promise to our friends and have every intention of keeping it, yet we may be prevented through no fault of our own. But there are no conceivable circumstances which can prevent God from honouring His word of promise. Look up Numbers 23:19, and compare 1 Kings 8:56, Luke 21:33 and Matthew 5:18. When God makes a promise it is based upon His sovereignty, His righteousness, His holiness, His justice and His mercy – all of which are involved in His pledged word. When he lay dying, General Booth turned to his son, Bramwell, and three times repeated the words, “The promises of God are sure” – and so they are!

THEIR SIZE

Peter makes this point in his statement. He describes God’s promises as “very great”, and this surely is a reason why they are so precious. We measure the size of a promise by the benefit it gives us. When we consider the content of God’s promises and the great blessing they offer, then at once we see how very great they are. For example:-

He not only provides for our redemption but for our eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12).
He not only gives us life but the promise of life to the full (John 10:10).
He not only gives us His joy but joy that is complete (John 15:11). Compare 1 Peter 1:8.
He not only gives us peace but the promise of perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3). Compare Philippians 4:7.
He not only promises His forgiveness but He will remember our sins no more (Jeremiah 31:34).
He not only guarantees heaven but He promises heaven with Him (John 14:2-3 and 1 Thessalonians 4:17).
He not only offers us His grace but He promises that it will be sufficient for every need (2 Corinthians 12:9).

THEIR SUFFICIENCY

Whatever your need may be God has a promise that exactly covers that need (Philippians 4:19), and notice that He promises to supply your need “according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus”. What is your need? Is it food? (see Psalm 34:10). Is it clothing? (see Matthew 6:25, 30-32). Is it guidance you need? (see Psalm 73:24; Isaiah 30:21). Do you lack wisdom? (see Proverbs 16:3; James 1:5). Do you need rest? (see Matthew 11:28; John 6:37). Is it forgiveness you need? (see Isaiah 55:7; Acts 13:38). Do you need salvation? (see Romans 10:8-9, 13). Do you long for a sense of security? (see John 10:27-29). Are you troubled about old age? (see Isaiah 46:4). Are you fearful and unable to sleep? (see Proverbs 3:24; Isaiah 43:1-3). Do you need deliverance from trouble? (see Psalms 50:15 and 55:22).

THEIR SIMPLICITY

The promises of God are precious because they are clear.

They are easy to find because they are everywhere.
They are easy to understand. A child can understand them (Isaiah 35:8).
They are easy to claim. Many of God’s promises are conditional: He promises to do something if we will do something – for example, look at John 6:37 and Romans 8:28.
They are easy to prove. A dear old saint used to put ‘T’ and ‘P’ in the margin of her Bible against the promises of God, which meant she had tried them and proved them! – look up Malachi 3:10.
They are easy to learn and remember. Start learning them now, one a week or one a day, and do what David did in Psalm 119:11.

In concluding this study please turn to 2 Corinthians 1:20: “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” In other words, the promises are given to us, are ours to claim and are fulfilled in our experience only as we know Christ as our Saviour and Lord. Do you know Him as your Saviour and Lord?

SOME OF THE THINGS PETER CALLS PRECIOUS

(1 Peter 2:1-12)

One of the simplest and most rewarding methods of Bible study is to take one word and see how it is used in different parts of the Bible. In this study we are to consider the word ‘precious’, which Peter in his two Letters uses in seven different connections. When something is precious it means it is of great worth, or it is very highly esteemed. If someone or something is precious to me then he, she or it will bring about certain reactions! (1) My thoughts will be full of that person or thing. (2) I will cherish or guard that person or thing. (3) I will dread any thought of harm or loss coming to that person or thing. (4) I will find it almost impossible to live without that person or thing. What is it that fills Peter’s mind and that he cherishes and guards? – take your Bible and look up his use of the word ‘precious’: 1 Peter 1:6-7; 1 Peter 1:18-21; 1 Peter 2:3-5; 1 Peter 2:6; 1 Peter 2:7; 2 Peter 1:1 and 2 Peter 1:4. At once you will notice that these references speak about the precious Person of our Lord Jesus Christ and the various things that become precious to us when we believe on Him. It is the Lord Himself who is precious and He is only so to believers – see the contrast Peter makes in 1 Peter 2:7. He is precious to believers because of all that He is in His glorious person, but also because of the blessings He gives. Let’s consider the precious things that become ours when we come to know Him as our Saviour and Lord. Why is Jesus precious?

1 Peter 1:18-21 tells us He is precious because He shed His blood for us.

The expression “blood of Christ” needs explanation. It occurs many times in the Old and New Testaments, and to some it has a crude and perhaps an unintelligible meaning. The word ‘blood’ in reference to the Lord Jesus always refers to His sacrifice when He laid down His life on the cross, to make atonement for our sin and to redeem us. The word ‘blood’ is equivalent to His redeeming work (1 Peter 1:18-19). The shedding of His blood accomplished our redemption (verse 18). Because Christ shed His blood every believer may know certain things: (1) he has been redeemed (verse 18); (2) Christ is his substitute (verse 19; compare Isaiah 53:5-6); (3) in eternity God was making provision for his salvation and in time Christ “was revealed” for him (verse 20); (4) because Christ was raised from the dead His sacrifice was accepted by God (verse 21). All this is true because the blood was shed. No wonder it is precious, and as we see how precious the blood of Christ is we are helped to see how precious Christ Himself is.

2 Peter 1:1 tells us that the Lord Jesus is precious because of the faith we have received from Him.

All believers have faith – that is what makes them believers! Did we attain it? No, we ‘obtained’ it – not as a result of our own efforts, but it was implanted in us by the Lord and through the work of the Holy Spirit, and this faith is precious because it brings us into union and communion with the Lord Jesus. Some people have strange ideas about faith: they imagine it comes and is increased by self-effort – but look up Romans 10:17, and compare Ephesians 2:8. The ‘it’ in this latter verse refers to the grace, the salvation and the faith. As we see how precious this ‘faith’ is we are helped to see how precious Christ Himself is, for it is His gift to us and it unites us with Him.

1 Peter 2:3-6 tells us that the Lord Jesus is precious because of the grace He has given to us.

The Church of God is described here as a building. Christ Himself is “the living Stone”, or foundation (verse 4; compare 1 Corinthians 3:11 and Matthew 16:13-18); believers are “living stones” (verse 5) built into the building, the Church. We are precious stones because we are built into the Precious Stone, who is Christ; we are bricks in that great building which is the true Church of God. Christ is the living stone; in Him is life, and when we are united to Him by faith we become living stones, for we share His life (1 John 5:11-12).

2 Peter 1:4 tells us that the Lord Jesus is precious because of the Word He has given to us.

Peter declares that in His Word God has given us promises to cover every possible need. It is a great day in the Christian’s life when he sees this and he begins carefully and prayerfully to search out God’s promises, to lean upon them and prove them in his experience. How foolish we are if, when we are placed in conditions of need, we do not turn to the sure words of hope and confidence that God has given to us.

1 Peter 1:6-7 tells us that the Lord Jesus is precious because of the way He deals with us.

Peter declares the fact that faith has to be tried or tested, just as gold has to be. Why does God deal with us in this way? Among many reasons consider the following: (1) In order that our eyes may be taken away from the things of time and sense and set upon the things of eternity (1 Peter 1:4). (2) In order that we may prove in our own experience the wonderful keeping power of God (1 Peter 1:5). (3) In order that we may rejoice even in the midst of trials and testings (1 Peter 1:6, and compare Acts 5:41; Acts 16:25 and James 1:2). (4) In order that we may be purified (1 Peter 1:7, and compare Malachi 3:3). (5) In order that the Name of the Lord Jesus might be glorified and that we might have a special opportunity of proving our love for Him (1 Peter 1:7-8).

The Lord Jesus is precious. We realise this because of the precious Blood He has shed for us; the precious faith we have received from Him; the precious grace and His precious Word He has given us, and the precious way He deals with us. How precious He is!

THE WAY TO BECOME A FRUITFUL CHRISTIAN

(2 Peter 1:5-15)

In 2 Peter 1:5-11 we are given very clear guidance about becoming fruitful Christians. The key verse is verse 8. It should be the burning desire of every Christian to become fruitful; the alternative is to remain barren and unfruitful – to be unproductive, like the withered fig tree (Mark 11:20). How many Christians are like this! - and the Lord’s desire is that each of us should be fruitful (John 15:1-16). In the KJV notice “fruit” (v.2), “more fruit” (v.2), “much fruit” (v.5), and “that your fruit should remain” (verse 16, KJV). It is only as we bear fruit that the Lord is glorified (v.8). How can we bear much fruit, how can we become fruitful Christians? The answer is very important: we shall only become fruitful Christians as we do something, strenuously, regularly and conscientiously. This is brought out in verse 5, where Peter says we must “add” – not casually and occasionally, but “make every effort”. The argument which Peter places before us is this: ‘God has done His part in giving you the gift of faith (v.1), in bringing you to a knowledge of Himself (vs. 2 and 3), and in making you a partaker of His divine nature (v.4); now you must do your part, and you will become a fruitful Christian.’ Verses 5, 6 and 7 tell us that we must exercise our faith by adding to ourselves seven virtues or graces. God has given us the gift of faith, and on this foundation and by using this gift we must add – what?

GOODNESS (verse 5)

This means ‘moral excellence’ or ‘good character’. Compare Acts 11:24, but notice this: it is a manly goodness, a quality that is masculine, vigorous and strong – something which is greatly needed in our churches: men and women who are those of genuine and virile Christian character.

KNOWLEDGE (verse 5)

This means ‘wisdom’ in the sense of knowing how to act as a Christian in relationships and duties of life. If we need counsel there are some friends to whom we can gladly go to seek such counsel, and we go to them because they have knowledge and wisdom; they know what to advise and how to act and they have spiritual intelligence; but we do not have to go to man to get such knowledge and wisdom – Psalm 32:8 and Proverbs 2:6.

SELF-CONTROL (verse 6)

If we are characterised by this virtue it means that our desires will be under the Lord’s mastery and control, and not only those, but our judgments, tastes, speech and everything else. This is what it means to be “filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). There is a special reference here to the mastery of sexual desires, which are very strong in any normal and healthy person; they are God’s gift but must be brought under and kept under control, requiring discipline. Does your body master you, or are you master of your body?

PERSEVERANCE (verse 6)

This is meant to convey the idea of endurance. The Christian pilgrimage is a very hard one, and as we travel on to Glory we are to “endure hardship….like a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:3); compare James 1:2-6 and 12. We are to be people of grit as well as grace (Hebrews 11:27 and 32-38).

GODLINESS (verse 6)

This is the old-fashioned word we know best as piety, or reverence, referring to a quality which is very much needed today. There is no suggestion of being sad and sombre, but we are to be characterised by a sanctity and a seriousness, a Christ-likeness (1 Timothy 2:2; 1 Timothy 4:7-8 and 1 Timothy 6:3,5,6,11). There is a beautiful illustration of godliness in action in 2 Kings 4:8-10. Do others perceive that we are holy, godly and Christ-like? – look up Acts 4:13.

BROTHERLY KINDNESS (verse 7)

The word is ‘philadelphia’, which means ‘brotherly affection’. We as Christians are to develop kindness to those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ – look up Galatians 6:10, and compare 1 Peter 3:8-9. What scope there is for exercising this grace!

LOVE (verse 7)

This should be the great characteristic of every Christian, and if we want to know what love is and how it is expressed, all we have to do is to read 1 Corinthians chapter 13. It means that we should not only love the people of God, but love all people.

These are the seven graces that we, through the exercising of faith, should constantly be adding to our lives, and we shall become fruitful Christians. What will be the result of the adding of these seven graces:

We shall no longer be barren and unproductive, but increasingly fruitful, especially in the knowledge of God – see verse 8.
We shall no longer be blind, but spiritually enlightened – see the first part of verse 9.
We shall no longer be forgetful of all that the Lord has done for us, but we shall be constantly filled with gratitude to Him for His grace to such unworthy people as ourselves – see the second part of verse 9.
We shall no longer be likely to stumble spiritually, but we shall be “strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10) – see verse 10.
We shall not suffer loss, but we shall receive a reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) – see verse 11.

We must see to it that we do all in His power to become fruitful Christians.

THE INSPIRATION AND AUTHORITY OF THE BIBLE

(Scripture Portions: 2 Peter 1:16-21 and 2 Timothy 3:14-17)

In these days, when many are denying the Faith, we must be absolutely sure about the divine inspiration and authority of the Bible, which is the basis of our Christian faith. In 2 Peter 1:19-21 this truth is brought before us, as follows:

The Bible is a “more certain” Word (verse 19). This means ‘firm’, ‘reliable’, ‘trustworthy’. The reference is to the Old Testament, but what is true there is also true of the New Testament. Thank God, the Bible is a ‘sure’ word and it can be depended upon! If this were not so – look up Psalm 11:3.
The Bible is a light in a dark place (verse 19). The world is a dark place, with no ray of light anywhere, no divine revelation – except in the Bible. Apart from God’s Word we know nothing about the meaning of life, about death or about eternity (Psalm 119:105). The Bible throws light on the Christian’s path until the Lord comes back (last part of verse 19).
The Bible is one organic whole (verse 20), which means that no scripture is to be interpreted by itself – that is, apart from other scriptures and apart from the rest of the Bible. The word is to be “correctly handled” (2 Timothy 2:15); the books of the Bible form a unity, and therefore one part of scripture must be interpreted in the light of every other part.
The Bible was written by holy men. God chose about forty human writers and He used these to write the sixty-six books of the Bible. But we must notice that they did not write according to “the will of man” (verse 21). What they wrote was not a concoction of their own ideas, nor the result of human imagination, insight or speculation.
The Bible was and is inspired by the Holy Spirit (verse 21). He is the divine Author and He inspired the writers. They were “carried along” by the Holy Spirit as they wrote.

Everybody believes the Bible is inspired, but the use of the word ‘inspiration’ has different meanings:-

We do not mean natural inspiration, which is no more than human genius. Artists, poets, musicians are inspired, but by natural inspiration. We mean more than this when speaking about the inspiration of the Bible.
We do not mean simply that the Book is inspiring. It inspires all those who read it, of course it does! But we mean much more than this.
We do not mean partial inspiration – that we can rely on parts which are inspired, and regard other parts as unreliable.
We do not mean progressive inspiration – in that there is a progressive revelation where there is much fuller truth in the New Testament than is revealed in the Old Testament.
We do not mean the inspiration of the thoughts only. Some say it is only the ideas and the general thoughts expressed which are inspired, and that the general sense, therefore, is reliable but the words must not be relied upon. We do not accept this view.

What are the positive answers to the question, “What is Inspiration”?

We believe the Bible is inspired by God and not by man; it is of divine (not human) origin. 2 Timothy 3:16 literally reads, “All scripture is God-breathed”.
We believe the whole Bible is equally inspired by God – from Genesis to Revelation. We believe in the plenary inspiration of the Bible – a full, complete inspiration. (The word ‘plenary’ means ‘passing through all its stages’).
We believe the inspiration of the Bible extends to every Book, chapter, sentence and word in the original documents. This is verbal inspiration, meaning that it extends to the very words used in the original writings.

Many Christians do not accept this; they prefer to accept the deductions of modern critical scholarship. There is a very necessary and valuable criticism of the biblical manuscripts, but error results when those who bring their scholarship to the scriptures reject all that they cannot understand and refuse to accept by faith what God has revealed. They substitute human speculation and reasoning for divine revelation. We believe the whole Bible is inspired by God and is therefore reliable. But how do we substantiate this claim?

If the Bible is God’s Book, if He is the Author who inspired its writings, then such inspiration must extend to the whole Book. God would not have given an imperfect revelation of Himself. All His ways and His acts are perfect.
If the whole Bible is inspired, then the words must be inspired as well as the ideas and thoughts. Otherwise there can be no accuracy; thoughts cannot be expressed without words, and they cannot be accurately expressed without carefully chosen and precise words.
The Scriptures themselves claim this full and complete inspiration extending to the words. If Peter’s words in verse 21 are right, it must be so – see Psalm 19:7; Psalm 119:89; John 10:35 and 1 Corinthians 2:12-13.
Our Lord Jesus Christ accepted the full inspiration of the Old Testament Scriptures. His own words were inspired, they were God-given (Matthew 5:18; Matthew 24:35; John 6:63; John 8:26,28,40; and John 12:49-50).
The Bible is therefore fully inspired, accurate, authoritative and reliable, and it demands that we “pay attention” to what God says in His Word – that is, to read it, believe it, love it, obey it, learn it, spread it and thank God for it!

THE SPIRITUAL VALUE OF A GOOD MEMORY

(2 Peter 1:9-15 and 3:1-2)

The apostle makes several references in this letter to the danger of forgetting and the great importance of having a good memory, when considering moral and spiritual things. Memory is a wonderful gift from God, but, like every other good gift, it can be used in a bad and a harmful way. Satan tries to turn the benefits of memory into a curse, by reminding us of things in the past about ourselves and about others which God wants us to forget (Philippians 3:13). By remembering when we should forget, we often harm ourselves, the church, and other people. If the opposite is also true, what does God want us to remember?

(1) His great goodness to us, His mercy and His faithfulness (Deuteronomy 5:15; Luke 22:19). (2) All those things in the past which we can profitably use for comfort and warning in our lives (Deuteronomy 7:18; 24:9; Psalm 143:5; Luke 17:32; Acts 11:16). (3) All those things in other people’s lives which will help us to understand and to love them better (Hebrews 13:3).

Turning to Peter’s Second Letter, let us notice three clear exhortations we are given about using our memories in the right way:-

In 2 Peter 1:9 we are exhorted to remember what the Lord has done for us.

This verse describes those people whose memory had been made oblivious of the fact that certain great things had happened. We are all in danger of forgetting what the Lord has done for us. What are these?

He has cleansed us from our sins (2 Peter 1:9) – and to get the force of these words we should compare Psalm 51:7; 65:3; Proverbs 16:6; Isaiah 6:7; Hebrews 1:3. The first joy we experience when we become a Christian is the joy of sins forgiven and cleansed (Psalm 51:12), and never forget this!
He has given us “everything we need for life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3) – and it also emphasises the fact that this ‘everything’ is brought to us and made real in our experience “through our knowledge of him”. In other words, when we come to know the Lord Himself we come into possession of every other worthwhile knowledge – compare Ephesians 1:3 and Philippians 3:10, and never forget this!
He has called us “by his own glory and goodness” (2 Peter 1:3) – it simply means that He has given us a measure of heaven upon earth now and the promise of heaven for all eternity in the future. How wonderful that the Lord should do this for us! Do not lose the wonder of this great fact – never forget this!
He has given us “his very great and precious promises” by which to live the Christian life (2 Peter 1:4). How can we live in the light of verses 5-7 unless we can claim such promises as Isaiah 41:13; Philippians 4:19; 2 Timothy 4:18 and Hebrews 13:5-6? Glorious promises – never forget that the Lord has given them to you!
He has provided the means whereby we may live lives of usefulness (2 Peter 1:8). How sad to have lived an unproductive life when God meant us to be fruitful! Look up John 15:5, 8, 16, and never forget that the Lord intends you to be a fruitful Christian!

In 2 Peter 1:12 we are exhorted to remember who the Lord is, and who has done so much for us. What are we to remember about the Lord Himself?
He is the One who came out of the glory of heaven to do His Father’s will (2 Peter 1:17). Compare Philippians 2:5-8. The cross was the purpose of His coming. In eternity past He vowed – Hebrews 10:7; and before Calvary He said – John 4:34. He came from heaven to earth for us – for you!
He is the One who is truly the Son of God, in whom the Godhead is perfectly enshrined and expressed (2 Peter 1:16). Peter was referring to the transfiguration of the Lord on the mountain, where he and others were “eyewitnesses of his majesty”. They heard the words of the Father and saw the Son (Mark 9:1-10). Always remember that the Lord Jesus is the one and only Son of the Father!
He is the One who foretold the martyrdom of His beloved servant Peter (2 Peter 1:14) – compare John 21:18. We learn that just as the Lord had a perfect plan for Peter’s life, so He has a perfect plan for the life of each of His children. Never forget this! He is the Planner – our Guide and our Guardian (Exodus 33:13; Psalm 27:11; 37:5; Proverbs 3:5-6; John 16:13). Always remember your Guide!
He is the One of whom the Scriptures always speak (2 Peter 1:21). The prophets spoke of Him; He is the Christ of all the Scriptures (John 5:39; Luke 24:27; Acts 18:28). Read your Bible and ground yourself deeply in its truth; gaze upon your Lord; always remember how great He is!

In 2 Peter 3:1-2 we are exhorted to remember the words of the prophets, the apostles and of our Lord concerning future things.

Notice the following:

Scoffers will come in the last days (2 Peter 3:3). We see these words being fulfilled around our world! – compare 2 Peter 3:4; Jude 18.
God will have the last word, and, as in former days, He will again send judgment on the earth (2 Peter 3:10). Read through Genesis chapters 6, 7 and 8, and compare 2 Peter 2:4-10; 3:5-7.

The conclusion to all this is in 2 Peter 3:17-18, and it is an encouragement to know that we have a divine helper to stir and refresh our memories about things that really matter – look up John 14:16.

WHERE IS THE PROMISE OF HIS COMING

(2 Peter 3:3-8)

All unfulfilled prophecy in God’s Word is bound up with the personal, bodily and visible return of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in this study we shall consider the urgent question asked by the scoffer in 2 Peter 3:3-4, but we shall ask it earnestly and reverently. We shall be impressed with the weight of testimony that Scripture gives to the certainty of the Lord’s second coming. But we must look at the context of this question: we read of something we are to know and be sure about; it is something that relates particularly to the last days of the Dispensation of Grace, the period immediately prior to the Lord’s return. We are to expect scoffers in the last days. Do you know any? Every one who scoffs at the truth of Christ’s return is fulfilling this prophecy, and Peter tells us exactly what the scoffers say. Let us ask the question, “Where is this ‘coming’ he promised?”

The Promise of His Coming is found in the Old Testament

There are 39 books in the Old Testament, and these can be divided into the five books of Moses (the Pentateuch, Genesis to Deuteronomy); twelve historical books (Joshua to Esther); six books of poetry (Job to Lamentations); and sixteen books of major and minor prophets (Isaiah to Malachi). Concerning all these books we read – 2 Timothy 3:16 and 2 Peter 1:21. In each of these five groups we find the promise of His coming, as the following examples show:-

Genesis 3:15. “You will strike his heel” refers to His first coming, fulfilled at Calvary where our Lord Jesus was crucified for us. “He will crush your head” refers to the second coming and to our Lord’s final overthrow of Satan (2 Thessalonians 2:8 and Revelation 20:1-3).

Genesis 5:24. Compare Hebrews 11:5 and 1 Thessalonians 4:17.

Genesis chaps. 22,23,24. Abraham (a type of God the Father); Eliezer, Abraham’s servant (a type of the Holy Spirit); Isaac (a type of the Lord Jesus); and Rebekah (a type of the Church, the Bride).

Genesis 41:45. Joseph (a type of Christ) during his rejection took a Gentile bride (compare Genesis 42:8; 45:3-4 and Acts 15:14).

Genesis 49:10. No comment needed!

1 Samuel 16:11. A picture of “Great David’s greater Son”.

2 Kings 2:11. Compare 1 Thessalonians 4:17.

Job 19:25. Compare Zechariah 14:4 and Acts 1:11.

Psalms 22,23, 24. Psalm 22 was prophetic of His death; Psalm 23 is true of the believer now; Psalm 24 awaits fulfilment.

The prophecies of Isaiah to Malachi are full of the promise of His coming. They were not fulfilled at His first coming, but await fulfilment. Compare Isaiah 61:1-2; Luke 4:18-19.

The Promise of His Coming is found in the four Gospels

Here we have the inspired and authoritative records of the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and repeatedly He spoke of His second coming. For example:-

Matthew 16:21,27; 24:3,27,35,36,37,44; and 25:1-13.

Mark 13:24-27.

Luke 19:11-27 and 21:25-28.

John 14:1-3 and 21:21-22.

Thus, in many of the clear statements made by our Saviour, and in some of His parables, we have the promise of His coming.

The Promise of His Coming is found in the Acts of the Apostles

Acts 1:9-11. The testimony of the angels is important because they were right at His birth (Luke 1:28-33; 2:8-14), and at His resurrection (Matthew 28:1-8).

Acts 15:14-17. Verse 14 is what God is doing today. Verses 16 and 17 await fulfilment.

The Promise of His Coming is found in the Letters of Paul, James, Peter, John and Jude

Paul: 1 Corinthians 4:5; 15:51-52; Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Titus 2:11-13; Hebrews 9:24-28.

James: James 5:7-8.

Peter: 1 Peter 1:10-11; 5:4; 2 Peter 3:3-4.

John: 1 John 2:28; 3:1-2.

Jude: Jude 14.

The Promise of His Coming is found in the Apocalypse

The Book of Revelation does not make sense if you take from it the promise of His personal return. The whole message of the Book is summed up in Revelation 1:7 and 22:7, 12 and 20.

The Promise of His Coming is found in the Lord’s Supper

Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, noticing the last three words. Whenever we take the bread and the wine we are reminded of the promise of His coming.

The Promise of His Coming is found in the heart of the true believer

Look up Revelation 19:10: what is the testimony of Jesus which we, as believers, have within us? It is the promise of His coming again. The Holy Spirit places in our hearts the assurance and expectation of His near return, which causes us to cry out, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20).

GOD’S LONGING FOR THE SALVATION OF SOULS

(Scripture Portion: Luke 15:1-24)

God’s attitude towards the human race is clearly defined in 2 Peter 3:9, upon which verse this study is based. What is God’s attitude towards men and women? The answer is that He loves them and longs for their salvation.

The words “not slow” refer to the Second coming (see verses 3-4). They tell us that God “is not slow in keeping his promise”. He may seem slow because of the way we measure time (verse 8).
“He is patient”. If judgment seems slow it is not because God has forgotten or is unwilling to fulfil His word, but because of His deep concern and love for men and women who are lost. He is exercising patience in order that those who are lost may have the opportunity of being saved.
Notice the words “anyone” and “everyone”. Within the context of the verse we see God’s attitude towards men and women, His intense longing for the salvation of souls. He does not want anyone to perish. He could have cut sinners off but He has not done so. This does not mean that no-one will perish; indeed, some will refuse salvation (John 5:40); some will ignore salvation (Hebrews 2:3); some will lose their souls (Mark 8:36), some will not obey the gospel (1 Peter 4:17). There will be those who are not saved, but God does not desire this – look up Ezekiel 18:23; 33:11; Luke 19:41.

We shall turn to seven Bible verses to prove this:-

God’s longing for the salvation of souls is declared in Genesis 3:15.

This verse is the first emphatic statement of God’s promise to send a Redeemer. It was made by the Lord Himself in the Garden of Eden in the presence of Adam and Eve, who had sinned. Notice that immediately sin entered in through their disobedience and they became spiritually dead, God at once promised to send the Saviour. He could have banished Adam and Eve but instead He promised to send the Lord Jesus. In Genesis 3:21 we read that after having made this promise of a Redeemer, God Himself provided a covering for His disobedient children. This is a type of the “garment of salvation”, the righteousness which all who trust Him as Saviour wear. Here is our first proof that God longs for the salvation of souls.

God’s longing for the salvation of souls is clearly portrayed in Genesis 7:1.

Chapters 6 and 7 of Genesis record the account of God’s instructions to Noah to build an ark, a place of refuge, for those who would believe His word and be saved from judgment. We have a terrible statement in Genesis 6:5, but look at verses 6-7, which prove that God longs for man’s salvation. God must punish sin because He is just and righteous, but He loves the sinner. He allowed Noah to go on preaching for 120 years before His judgment fell (1 Peter 3:20). Why did He wait so long? Because He longed for the salvation of souls.

God’s longing for the salvation of souls is predicted in Isaiah 53:5.

Isaiah 53 is prophetic of the Saviour’s death. Written 700 years before Christ came, we have a revelation of the fact, the significance and the purpose of Christ’s death. In the New Testament we have a confirmation that these words refer to the promised Messiah (Acts 8:26-40); notice verses 32-35. Here is another proof of God’s longing for the salvation of souls, promising to send His Son to die, in order that He might be our Sin-bearer, Substitute and Saviour.

God’s longing for the salvation of souls is illustrated in Luke 15:20.

Luke chapter 15 contains 3 parables: the lost sheep who was stupidly lost, the lost silver which was carelessly lost, and the lost son who was wilfully lost, and in each case we notice the attitude of the owner to that which was lost. The shepherd sought the sheep until he found it; the woman sought the silver until she found it; and the father waited patiently, lovingly, longingly until his son returned and was found. We have a picture of the Triune God – the Father, pictured in the father whose son went into the far country; the Son, pictured in the shepherd who went in search of the lost sheep; and the Holy Spirit, pictured in the woman who searched for her lost piece of silver. But look again at the Prodigal Son (verse 20): surely this one verse illustrates the longing of the father for his boy to return into fellowship, a beautiful illustration of God’s longing for the salvation of souls. This is how God feels towards men and women who have wandered from Him. He longs for them to return.

God’s longing for the salvation of souls is emphatically stated in John 3:16.

This verse tells us that God loves everyone and that He has made provision in the gift of His Son for “whoever” to escape the punishment of hell and to receive the gift of everlasting life. God indeed longs for the salvation of souls.

God’s longing for the salvation of souls is demonstrated in John 19:18.

We choose this verse because it centres our attention upon the death by crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ. See Him there dying in great agony. Remember, it is God’s Son who is dying. What further proof could we have of God’s love for all men than the fact that He sent His only Son to die for us, not to die an ordinary death, but he “became obedient to death – even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8). Compare John 15:13.

God’s longing for souls is finally emphasised in Revelation 22:17.

Before John finished his writing he recorded the fact that God longed for the salvation of souls in this appealing invitation. God’s longing is for the salvation of your soul in particular – look up 1 Timothy 2:4.

CHAPTER 2

THE KIND OF PEOPLE WE OUGHT TO BE

(2 Peter 3:10-18)

In these verses Peter emphasises that belief in the great truth of the second coming of our Lord is a present incentive to holiness of life and dedication to his service. If we believe that Christ is coming again this must affect our behaviour. Notice in the following references that the truth of our Lord’s return is linked with the question of conduct and service – Luke 12:43; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Philippians 1:10; Colossians 3:2-5; 2 Timothy 4:1; Titus 2:11-13; James 5:7-8; 1 John 2:28; 3:2-3. In 2 Peter 3:10-18 there are five characteristics or marks of the Christian in whose life the truth of Christ’s return is a practical hope.

If we believe that Jesus is coming again soon, we shall seek to live lives that are Christ-like, holy, blameless and God-glorifying.

Study verses 11 and 14 carefully. What would my immediate reaction be if I were suddenly told that the Lord was coming in two hours’ time? Many Christians, on receiving that message, would need every bit of two hours to prepare. Apologies would have to be made (Matthew 5:23-24); debts would have to be paid (Romans 13:8); books would have to be burnt (Acts 19:19); loved ones would have to be warned (Genesis 19:14); cheques would have to be written (Malachi 3:8); confessions would have to be made (Matthew 18:15-16)! Well, the fact is, He is coming – and He may come tonight – and the practical effect of this truth should be an incentive to holy living. If we are expecting Him to come we shall desire to be found of Him “spotless” and “blameless” (verse 14). Look up Colossians 3:2-5 and 1 John 2:28.

If we believe that Jesus is coming again soon, we shall be far more interested in the world to come than in this world.

Study verse 13 carefully. That is not to say that we as Christians are not in any way to be interested in the improvement of social conditions. Most of the relief agencies that exist today for the care of the poor, the suffering and the abused in our world have been initiated by Christians, and so we should not be ‘so heavenly-minded that we are no earthly good’. We have a definite contribution to make to society. We are to shine as lights (Matthew 5:16), to be as salt (Matthew 5:13), exercising a purifying influence in the community – but this world is not our home because we are only passing through and travelling on to heaven. We are citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20). Some people look upon us as pessimists because we believe that this poor world is doomed, but in reality we are optimists, for while we do not believe in the dissolution of the present order of things, we also “look for a new heaven and a new earth”. We cannot afford to be ‘worldly’ Christians, living in bondage to the sins and pleasures of this world (Matthew 6:19-21; Titus 2:12-13; 1 John 2:15-17).

If we believe that Jesus is coming again soon we shall be deeply concerned for the salvation of those who are not ready to meet Him.

Verses 9 and 15 remind us of the Lord’s wonderful compassion towards those who are perishing (John 3:16), and you and I who belong to Him and who are His servants should share His deep concern for the salvation of men and women. All the signs of the times tell us that the coming of the Lord is very near (James 5:8). How wonderful it will be for us when He comes! – but how solemn it will be for those who are not ready to meet Him, and to whom He will say – Luke 13:27! Let us use every opportunity to bring the gospel to those whose need is so desperate – look up John 4:35.

If we believe that Jesus is coming again soon we shall be steadfast in the midst of worsening conditions in this world.

Verse 17 tells us this. Of course we must expect conditions in the world to get worse, though there are some strange prophets who tell us that the world is getting better! But a world which has rejected God and His Son, and which has spurned the divine remedy for sin, can never get better apart from divine intervention. It is in this desperately dark and sin-stricken world that you and I, who love the Lord, are to find encouragement, hope and inspiration in the calm assurance that our Sovereign Lord, who is on the Throne, will shortly step down and put all wrongs right. To know God and to be initiated into the mystery of His intention for the coming days is the secret of assurance and peace – look up the wonderful promise in Isaiah 26:3.

If we believe that Jesus is coming again soon, we shall desire above all to grow in the grace and knowledge of Him.

This is what verse 18 suggests. Do you know Him as your Saviour, Friend and Lord? If not – Job 22:21! If you do know Him, how much do you know Him? Look up John 14:9. Do you share Paul’s ambition? – look up Philippians 3:10. The way to grow in grace and to know Him better is to be much alone with Him in prayer (Matthew 6:6), and to meditate constantly upon His Word (Psalm 119:97).

Let us pray that the daily anticipation of our Lord’s return will inspire us to live lives that are well-pleasing to Him, to live in the light of eternity, to reach out for the salvation of others, to be quiet and confident in the midst of international confusion and chaos, and above all, to know Him!

SOME THINGS HARD TO UNDERSTAND

(2 Peter 3:14-16 and 1 Corinthians 2:11-16)

In this study we shall consider the significance of Peter’s reference in 2 Peter 3:15-16 to “some things hard to understand”. He is referring to the scriptures and in particular to the Apostle Paul’s writings. These letters were quite evidently in circulation and were recognised as having upon them the stamp of divine authority, and the point Peter makes is that there are many things in these inspired writings that are hard to understand. What do we learn from this fact, and from this phrase in particular:-

There are some things in the Bible that are hard to understand. If anybody boasts that he can easily and at once understand all that is recorded and revealed, do not believe him! Some parts are very hard to understand, and we are not surprised that this is so, for the Bible is God’s book. He is the author and He is infinite. Is it likely that we would understand all His mind and will?
These things in the Bible that are hard to understand can be understood. Peter does not say we cannot understand them; what he says is that they are “hard to understand”. We can understand the times (1 Chronicles 12:32); we can understand the Lord’s will (Ephesians 5:17); we can be filled with all spiritual understanding (Colossians 2:2). Although it is not easy to understand spiritual truth, it is not impossible.
It is only possible to understand the Bible and spiritual truth by the spiritual illumination of the Holy Spirit. Study 1 Corinthians 2:14 and compare Matthew 16:15-17; also compare Ephesians 1:18. Every time we read the Bible, therefore, we need to pray the prayer in Psalm 119:18.

Now consider seven themes that Peter mentions in this chapter that are “hard to understand”. Really, we should be studying some of Paul’s “hard things”, for Peter refers to these; the “hard things” of Paul are the same as Peter’s:-

The Second Coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (verses 3 and 4)

The writer says that in the last days there will be those who will scoff at the very idea of a second coming of Christ; they will be sceptical and will ‘write off’ the whole idea. Many find the subject of the Lord’s return a difficult one, but it is clearly revealed that Jesus, who came the first time (Hebrews 9:26) will come again (Hebrews 9:28). Hundreds of Old Testament prophecies remain unfulfilled until He comes, and then they will be literally fulfilled. The subject of the second coming is “hard to understand”, but we must be sure of it and be ready for it. See what verses 10 and 11 tell us.

The Genesis account of the Creation (verses 5 and 6)

Here again is a subject which is “hard to understand”; scientists are doing all they possibly can to discredit the Bible account of the world and of man, as we have it in Genesis 1 and 2. They say it is out-of-date. The tragedy is that they cannot give us any proven explanation as to the creation of the world and of man; they say the Bible is not true; they assert our ancestors were apes or monkeys – but Genesis 1:26 and 2:7 provide us with a far more satisfying explanation – compare Genesis 1:1 and John 1:1-2.

The Judgment of God upon the Antediluvians (verse 6)

It is hard to understand how and why God could and should have brought terrible judgment upon the antediluvians, but in Genesis 6, 7 and 8 we have the historical record of this event. Read these chapters, and remember that because God is holy and righteous He cannot condone sin; He must judge sin and punish sinners. He did this in Noah’s day, and His hatred against sin is seen at Calvary, where we also see His wonderful love for sinners (Romans 5:8). There will never be another flood over the whole earth, for the rainbow guarantees this (Genesis 9:13); but there will be judgment, and the future judgment will be by fire (verses 7 and 10), and compare Joel 2:30. The great advances in nuclear science enable us to understand how these prophecies will be fulfilled.

The Day of Judgment (verse 7)

We read of judgment and punishment that will fall upon ungodly men and women who, having refused to respond to God’s love and to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, will be banished from God’s presence (Revelation 20:11-15). How can a God of love deal so drastically with sinners? If God is God, and if He is righteous, holy and just, how can He ignore the fact of sin and the wilful disobedience of sinners? We can be quite sure that all that God does will be in full accord with His justice and mercy (Genesis 18:25), and read 2 Peter 3:9.

The Hastening of the Day of God (verse 12)

Is it possible for us to ‘urge on’ the coming of the Lord? Yes, it is, for His coming awaits the preaching of the gospel to all nations (Matthew 24:14); the gathering of the elect (Acts 15:13-14); and by preaching the gospel and seeking the salvation of souls we may actually hasten the time when the Lord will come.

The new heavens and the new earth (verse 13)

It is difficult to understand how this word of God will be fulfilled, but where shall we be when it comes about? It will help to read the whole of Revelation 21.

The security of the child of God (verses 16-18)

Is it possible for a believer to fall away and be lost? Do the words in verse 17 about falling “from your secure position” suggest that a Christian can after all be lost? The answer is an emphatic – no! – look up John 10:28-30; Philippians 1:6 and Jude 24.

These are some things “hard to understand”. Peter and Paul mention them and the Bible is full of them. The author of the Book is dwelling within us and He is our Teacher – John 14:16-17,26; 15:26-27; 16:13-15.

SOME THINGS HARD TO UNDERSTAND

(2 Peter 3:14-16 and 1 Corinthians 2:11-16)

There are some things in the Bible that are hard to understand. If anybody boasts that he can easily and at once understand all that is recorded and revealed, do not believe him! Some parts are very hard to understand, and we are not surprised that this is so, for the Bible is God’s book. He is the author and He is infinite. Is it likely that we would understand all His mind and will?
These things in the Bible that are hard to understand can be understood. Peter does not say we cannot understand them; what he says is that they are “hard to understand”. We can understand the times (1 Chronicles 12:32); we can understand the Lord’s will (Ephesians 5:17); we can be filled with all spiritual understanding (Colossians 2:2). Although it is not easy to understand spiritual truth, it is not impossible.
It is only possible to understand the Bible and spiritual truth by the spiritual illumination of the Holy Spirit. Study 1 Corinthians 2:14 and compare Matthew 16:15-17; also compare Ephesians 1:18. Every time we read the Bible, therefore, we need to pray the prayer in Psalm 119:18.

The Second Coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (verses 3 and 4)

The Genesis account of the Creation (verses 5 and 6)

The Judgment of God upon the Antediluvians (verse 6)

The Day of Judgment (verse 7)

The Hastening of the Day of God (verse 12)

The new heavens and the new earth (verse 13)

It is difficult to understand how this word of God will be fulfilled, but where shall we be when it comes about? It will help to read the whole of Revelation 21.

The security of the child of God (verses 16-18)

THE WORKER’S PRIVILEGE

“They were the potters who lived at Netaim

and Gederah; they stayed there and worked for the king.”

(1 Chronicles 4:23)

The key verse of this study gives us the theme for the other twelve in this series. We shall consider the importance for a Christian to live in fellowship with the Lord and to be engaged in active service for Him. Both these aspects of truth are emphasised in our verse; and in this study we are to think in particular of the privilege that we enjoy as Christians: not only do we live with the King but we are to be engaged in the King’s business. It’s important to lift the words of our verse out of their historical setting and translate them into our own experience, and by way of introduction notice the following:-

As Christians and Christian workers we serve a glorious King. He is greater than any earthly king (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14). He was born king (Matthew 2:2); He declared Himself to be a king (John 18:37), and when He died the inscription over the cross also testified to his kingship (John 19:19). What an honour it is to be in the King’s service!
As servants of the King we live with Him and He lives with us. The New Testament teaching is found in our Lord’s word ‘remain’ in John 15:4 (AV), and an Old Testament illustration is found in Psalm 91:1 – ‘dwell’.
The work we are doing is the King’s work, not ours. This is emphasised in our key verse. We are engaged in the King’s business (1 Samuel 21:8), and Christian service is the Lord working through Christians who are His servants. To remember this will save us from pride, for any success which results from our work is due to what God has done; and, it will save us from a feeling of helplessness and inadequacy (2 Corinthians 3:5-6).

Notice in our key verse two central thoughts.

ALL WHO LIVE WITH THE KING MUST WORK FOR HIM

Every Christian has been saved to serve. We read here that the setting is the king’s palace with servants living either in the palace or in the palace grounds.

Why did these servants live with or near to the king? Was it so that they could rest and enjoy all the benefits of the royal household? No! They were there as workers. Why has the Lord saved us? Certainly that we might enjoy all the immense benefits of His saving grace, but more than that: we have been saved so that we might serve the Lord, not only now (Ephesians 2:10), but throughout eternity (Revelation 22:3). Our King needs workers, not shirkers. There is no room for idlers in His kingdom (Matthew 20:6). Are we engaged actively, conscientiously, in the King’s business?
There are a variety of ways of serving the king. Notice the words “they stayed there and worked for the king”. Who does this word ‘they’ refer to? It is particularly to “the potters”; there would be all kinds of workers in the king’s employment – servants, watchmen, courtiers, musicians, but also these men who were engaged in humble but very necessary tasks. This is true in the royal service of the Lord: some are preachers, some teachers, some musicians, and so on; but each one is necessary if the whole of the King’s work is to be accomplished satisfactorily (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
Just where we are is the place of service. Notice the little word ‘there’ in our verse! They served him just where they were. We are often tempted to think we could work better elsewhere. If we are in business we feel we could serve the Lord more effectively by being freed from our secular job; if we are in the pottery, the garden, the office or the shop, we think we could be better Christians if we were somewhere else. But the great lesson to learn is that every Christian is to be a missionary, and just where the Lord has placed us is where He wants us to serve Him.

ALL WHO WORK FOR THE KING MUST LIVE WITH HIM

The question we need to ask is: Why must we live with the King?

In order to become like Him. In 2 Corinthians 3:18 we learn that by being occupied with the King and by living near to Him we become like Him – not by any self-effort but by the gracious working of the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:13).
To be trained in His ways. We read in Mark 3:14 that when the Lord chose His disciples “He appointed twelve – designating them apostles – that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach…” His purpose was to send them out, but first they must be with Him so that they might learn from Him. Communion must come before service (Acts 6:4).
To receive our instructions. For a good illustration of this, look up Jeremiah 38:1-13, and picture Ebed-Melech going into the presence of the king to receive his instructions, and then going out to do the rescue work.
He wants our fellowship. Jesus said in John 15:15, “I no longer call you servants…Instead, I have called you friends”. The potters and the gardeners would always be servants of the king, and no more; but we are more! We are friends of the King, and if He calls us His friends it means that He wants our friendship and fellowship. This kind of intimate fellowship has to be cultivated – this is why we must “live” with the King.
Apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:4-5). Surely this emphasises the absolute necessity of living with the King, if fruit is to result from our fellowship and service. In Mark 16:19-20 we have a wonderful picture: Jesus, our King, is in heaven, but He is doing his work through His servants. How? By the Holy Spirit.

We have in our key verse a brief description of ordinary people, doing humble tasks in the service of the King – look up 1 Corinthians 1:26-29.

THE WORKER’S PRIVILEGE

: “They were the potters who lived at Netaim

and Gederah; they stayed there and worked for the king.”

(1 Chronicles 4:23)

As Christians and Christian workers we serve a glorious King. He is greater than any earthly king (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14). He was born king (Matthew 2:2); He declared Himself to be a king (John 18:37), and when He died the inscription over the cross also testified to his kingship (John 19:19). What an honour it is to be in the King’s service!
As servants of the King we live with Him and He lives with us. The New Testament teaching is found in our Lord’s word ‘remain’ in John 15:4 (AV), and an Old Testament illustration is found in Psalm 91:1 – ‘dwell’.
The work we are doing is the King’s work, not ours. This is emphasised in our key verse. We are engaged in the King’s business (1 Samuel 21:8), and Christian service is the Lord working through Christians who are His servants. To remember this will save us from pride, for any success which results from our work is due to what God has done; and, it will save us from a feeling of helplessness and inadequacy (2 Corinthians 3:5-6).

Notice in our key verse two central thoughts.

ALL WHO LIVE WITH THE KING MUST WORK FOR HIM

Every Christian has been saved to serve. We read here that the setting is the king’s palace with servants living either in the palace or in the palace grounds.

Why did these servants live with or near to the king? Was it so that they could rest and enjoy all the benefits of the royal household? No! They were there as workers. Why has the Lord saved us? Certainly that we might enjoy all the immense benefits of His saving grace, but more than that: we have been saved so that we might serve the Lord, not only now (Ephesians 2:10), but throughout eternity (Revelation 22:3). Our King needs workers, not shirkers. There is no room for idlers in His kingdom (Matthew 20:6). Are we engaged actively, conscientiously, in the King’s business?
There are a variety of ways of serving the king. Notice the words “they stayed there and worked for the king”. Who does this word ‘they’ refer to? It is particularly to “the potters”; there would be all kinds of workers in the king’s employment – servants, watchmen, courtiers, musicians, but also these men who were engaged in humble but very necessary tasks. This is true in the royal service of the Lord: some are preachers, some teachers, some musicians, and so on; but each one is necessary if the whole of the King’s work is to be accomplished satisfactorily (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
Just where we are is the place of service. Notice the little word ‘there’ in our verse! They served him just where they were. We are often tempted to think we could work better elsewhere. If we are in business we feel we could serve the Lord more effectively by being freed from our secular job; if we are in the pottery, the garden, the office or the shop, we think we could be better Christians if we were somewhere else. But the great lesson to learn is that every Christian is to be a missionary, and just where the Lord has placed us is where He wants us to serve Him.

ALL WHO WORK FOR THE KING MUST LIVE WITH HIM

The question we need to ask is: Why must we live with the King?

In order to become like Him. In 2 Corinthians 3:18 we learn that by being occupied with the King and by living near to Him we become like Him – not by any self-effort but by the gracious working of the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:13).
To be trained in His ways. We read in Mark 3:14 that when the Lord chose His disciples “He appointed twelve – designating them apostles – that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach…” His purpose was to send them out, but first they must be with Him so that they might learn from Him. Communion must come before service (Acts 6:4).
To receive our instructions. For a good illustration of this, look up Jeremiah 38:1-13, and picture Ebed-Melech going into the presence of the king to receive his instructions, and then going out to do the rescue work.
He wants our fellowship. Jesus said in John 15:15, “I no longer call you servants…Instead, I have called you friends”. The potters and the gardeners would always be servants of the king, and no more; but we are more! We are friends of the King, and if He calls us His friends it means that He wants our friendship and fellowship. This kind of intimate fellowship has to be cultivated – this is why we must “live” with the King.
Apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:4-5). Surely this emphasises the absolute necessity of living with the King, if fruit is to result from our fellowship and service. In Mark 16:19-20 we have a wonderful picture: Jesus, our King, is in heaven, but He is doing his work through His servants. How? By the Holy Spirit.

We have in our key verse a brief description of ordinary people, doing humble tasks in the service of the King – look up 1 Corinthians 1:26-29.

THE WORKER’S POSTURE

Key-verses: “David went in and sat before the Lord.” (1 Chronicles 17:16)

“Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet.” (Luke 10:39)

By bringing these two references together we are at once presented with our theme: the Worker’s posture, or attitude, in the Lord’s presence. What should it be? These verses suggest it should be the attitude, or posture, of sitting. There are two places where we sit before the Lord – privately, when we are alone; and publicly, when we meet with His people to worship Him and serve Him. It is possible for us just to sit, not really to sit before the Lord: Matthew 15:8 indicates this terrible possibility! The trouble with most of us is that we are constantly hurrying, rushing and working, and what we more often need to do is to sit quietly before the Lord. We need to do this deliberately, regularly and frequently. Look up Matthew 6:6, and compare Hebrews 10:25. Are you having those times of “sitting before the Lord”?

This attitude of sitting before the Lord suggests three things

Relaxation. When we sit we are in a relaxed position – and what need there is for every one of the Lord’s servants to know how to relax – physically, mentally and, above all, spiritually! It is well known that the secret of good health, peace and power in body, mind and soul is found in the art and practice of relaxation. This is true with regard to our bodies and our minds, and it is also true with regard to our souls. Do you have the right amount of rest and relaxation like this in relation to your spiritual life and needs?

Submission. In the case of the Psalmist David and of Mary, their attitude of sitting before the Lord indicated submission. They were ‘at his feet’. At whose feet? At the feet of the King, their Lord and Sovereign. How great He is, and how small they were! – look up Isaiah 57:15. Our great need is to get into this place of submission to Him, where we recognise His majesty and holiness and where we yield completely to His sovereignty and authority in our lives.

Expectation. When David and Mary sat before the Lord they were expecting something to happen; and of course it did! Sitting there in the presence of the King meant that they were never quite the same again. When Isaiah went into the Lord’s presence his life was completely changed and his ministry was revolutionised (Isaiah 6:1-8). Similarly, when we come to sit before the Lord we come in faith expecting something to happen:-

As we sit before the Lord three wonderful things happen

We see His face. Try to picture David as he sat before the Lord and spoke to Him, and Mary as she sat at Jesus’ feet and listened. When we sit before Him it is to worship Him, to recognise His greatness, His glory and His grace; and when we look at Him we are changed into His likeness. Compare Psalm 34:5 with 2 Corinthians 3:18.

We hear His word. Of course, as David and Mary sat at His feet they spoke to Him, but the most important fact is that He spoke to them. Our greatest need is to hear what He has to say to us (Psalm 85:8). Why?

(1) We fail and grieve Him, and need to act on His word (1 John 1:9).

(2) We think He has withdrawn His love because of our sin and failure, and need to rejoice in Jeremiah 31:3.

(3) We think we have committed the unpardonable sin, and need to hear and rest on His word in John 10:28-29.

(4) We think He has forsaken us, and need to hear and trust His word in Hebrews 13:5-6.

(5) We worry about the provision for our needs in the future, and need to hear and believe Philippians 4:19.

(6) We wonder why God does not use us more, and need to hear and rely on His word in Galatians 6:9.

(7) We sometimes feel lonely and forsaken when trials overwhelm us, and we need to find comfort in His word in Isaiah 41:10.

(3) We receive His grace. King David did (1 Chronicles 17 tells us!). And Mary did – read Luke 10:38-42! And Paul did – look up 2 Corinthians 12:7-9, and see what he says there! And you must receive His grace if you are to be the Christian God wants you to be. We need to sit at His feet in order to enter into the experience of 2 Corinthians 9:8.

This study really impresses upon us the importance of cultivating a holy walk with God. It emphasises the essential requirements in the life of a Christian worker, namely, communion with the Lord Himself. When General Gordon, the great Christian soldier, was in his tent praying, his men would know that he was alone with his God because of the white handkerchief attached to the entrance to his tent. This was a warning that no-one was to enter and interrupt the General’s interview with his Lord.

“And David the king came and sat before the Lord”….”Mary sat at Jesus’ feet.”

THE WORKER’S CONFESSION

“But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by men and

despised by the people.”

(Psalm 22:6)

Here was a man who felt just like a worm! That was his estimate of himself. What is our estimate of ourselves? Do not answer too quickly, because if someone called you a worm you might very well be upset with them for doing so! But what does God say about it, and how do you feel about it? As a matter of fact, God’s estimate of us is that we are like worms in His sight! We like to think of ourselves as important, attractive and secure, but God says, ‘No, you are a worm! You are small and feeble, and by nature you are full of moral corruption’ – look up Jeremiah 17:9. It is hard to accept this because we are so often proud. What we need to do is to cultivate the Christian grace of humility, of recognising that of ourselves we are absolutely nothing and that our place is to get down low at the feet of the Lord Jesus. When we get there He will say to us what He said to Jacob of old: “Do not be afraid, O worm Jacob….for I myself will help you, declares the Lord” (Isaiah 41:14).

What a wonderful word this is! God speaks to us immediately we are willing to get low at His feet and admit our unworthiness. Let us look at what God promises to do for worms, for His own people who recognise their weakness:-

He cares for worms

Think of the man Jacob (Isaiah 41:14)! He was just a worm in God’s sight, and yet the Lord promised to help him. Who is this God? This verse states, “the Holy One of Israel”. Is that all? No, look again: He is “your Redeemer”. This should fill us with wonder, love and praise. We are insignificant and unlovely and repulsive in ourselves, yet the Holy One Himself cares for us enough to become our Redeemer, and He shed His blood for us at Calvary in order to deliver us from sin, death and hell (1 Peter 1:18-19). How much the Lord must have cared for us to send His own Son to redeem us – to redeem a worm like you and like me! Yes, God cares for worms!

God speaks to worms

Notice the words in verse 14 – “declares the Lord”. If He speaks to worms, what does He say? The special word is “Do not be afraid.” This is to banish our fear and it is a word of promise that He will give us His help. He says, “Do not be afraid…for I myself will help you.” You see, worms are not only in special need of help, but they are especially ready to hear what God is saying and to receive His help. It is when we come to the end of our own resources that we are ready to cry out to God, asking for and receiving the help which He wants to give us. So, if you are a worm, rejoice in this, that God not only loves and cares for worms, but that He speaks to worms. But there is more to follow:-

God transforms worms

Look again at Isaiah 41:14, and notice that it is addressed to Jacob, and Jacob was his real name. It was Jacob who was transformed by the Lord and re-named Israel. Jacob, the supplanter, became Israel – “a prince with God” – look up and read about this in Genesis 32:24-30. What a wonderful transformation this was! But it is an illustration of what the Lord has always done in the lives of His people, and of what He is ready to do in your life. Think how wonderfully He transformed Moses (Deuteronomy 34:10-12); David (Acts 13:22); Isaiah (Isaiah 6:1-8); Jonah (Jonah 3:1-2); Peter (Luke 22:32); and Paul (Acts 9:1,5,6,17-18). God can take a Jacob and turn him into an Israel. God transforms worms.

God uses worms

Look now at Isaiah 41:15-16. God is still speaking to His people, whom He calls Jacob, the worm, and He is telling them that although they are an insignificant little worm He will make them an instrument in His hands, and through them He will do great and mighty things. God will do this; Jacob will only be the instrument. This is exactly what the Apostle Paul meant in 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 and 2 Corinthians 4:7. It takes some of us a long time to learn the lesson that it is God who is the worker and we are only the instruments in His hands! The instrument may be very small and insignificant, but when God takes it up He exercises His power and accomplishes something great for His praise and glory. How worthwhile it is to take our place low at His feet. Look up and compare John 3:30 and 1 Peter 5:5-6.

God exalts worms

We learn this from the last part of Isaiah 41:16. The Lord’s word to Jacob, the worm, is this: “You will rejoice in the Lord and glory in the Holy One of Israel”. It is a great moment in the life of any Christian when he recognises his union with the Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:6), and compare Isaiah 33:16. Then, and only then, is he willing to be lost sight of – to “glory in the Holy One of Israel” alone, and to give Him the pre-eminence – look up Colossians 1:18.

In concluding this study, notice that it is only when we are willing to get down, down, down low at the Lord’s feet, as a mere worm in His sight, that we can enter into the reality of the fact that God cares for us, speaks to us, transforms us, uses us and exalts us. The words “But I am a worm” (Psalm 22:6) refer to our Saviour Himself who was willing to be completely identified with us in our contempt, our weakness and our moral corruption (though He knew no sin), in order that we might be lifted up.

THE WORKER’S ZEAL

“My soul followeth hard after thee.” (Psalm 63:8, KJV)

“Never be lacking in zeal.” (Romans 12:11)

The 63rd Psalm has been called ‘The Morning Hymn’. According to the early fathers it was the custom for Christians to sing this psalm publicly every day, and on the Lord’s Day it was the first song they sang. It is a psalm of David and the key is in verse 8, where we have the idea of eagerness and zeal for the Lord. It is possible to be one of His followers, but not to be zealous. We should therefore ask the question: How earnest and zealous are we in our Christian living and in our service for Him? Let us look at the picture we have in this psalm of the zealous soul, and notice the marks, the characteristics, of the Christian who is following hard after the Lord.

The zealous Christian acknowledges a personal relationship with the Lord

Notice the words in verse 1: ”O God, you are my God…” David did not speak of God as “a God”, though that was true; he did not speak of Him as “the God”, though that was true; but he used the personal pronoun “my”, followed by the Hebrew word for God, which is Elohim, a plural word which expresses the mystery and wonder of the Trinity. Like Thomas of old, therefore, David was able to say from his heart, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Do you know God the Father as your heavenly Father, God the Son as your personal Saviour and God the Holy Spirit as your indwelling Comforter?

The zealous Christian confesses a deep longing for fellowship with the Lord

We get this in verses 1-2. David said, “earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land, where there is no water.” Look up and compare Psalm 42:1-2; Psalm 84:2; Psalm 143:6; John 7:37; John 12:21. Do you long for the Lord and for deeper fellowship with Him? – look up Philippians 3:10. What a glorious thing it is to be possessed by a burning zeal for the Lord Himself!

The zealous Christian is filled with praise and prayer to the Lord

We get this in verses 3, 4 and 5, and we should compare Philippians 4:6! Lifting up the hands denotes petition, supplication. Speaking generally, we are not nearly thankful enough; we do not praise the Lord enough – look up and see the challenging word in 1 Thessalonians 5:18. The zealous Christian will be filled with praise and thanksgiving – look up Acts 2:46-47, and notice that in our psalm David vowed that he would praise the Lord and bless His holy name – see Psalm 63:3-5 again.

The zealous Christian finds full satisfaction in the Lord Himself

In verse 5 we find David saying, “My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods.” What was it that satisfied this man? Was it possessions, pleasures, earthly joys? No, basically he was satisfied with the Lord Himself. He could have said with Wesley, ‘Thou, O Christ, art all I want; more than all in thee I find.’ Go through this 63rd psalm and underline the pronouns which refer to the Lord. The more zeal we have for the Lord Himself, the more we shall be weaned away from earthly things to find complete satisfaction in the Lord Jesus. His blessings will fill us with joy; but unless we know the Giver we shall be unsatisfied – look up Colossians 3:1-4.

The zealous Christian has developed the holy art of meditation

Here we turn to verse 6. Today there is rush and restlessness on every hand. How often do you sit down and meditate? How often do you really sit quietly with the Word of God and with the prayer that He will open your eyes to see Him in His Word? David was not referring to any so-called transcendental meditation here! He was referring to that meditation in God’s Word where the Spirit of God, who is the author of the book, shines light on the Word; and he was referring to meditation on the Person of Christ, His glory and majesty and greatness, and the love, mercy and grace of Christ. Do you know anything about meditation like that? – look up and compare Psalm 104:34 and Psalm 119:97.

The zealous Christian is confident and joyful about the future

Verse 7 is a great word of confidence. Spurgeon says in reference to it, “Past deliverances minister to present trust and assure us of future joy.” When we are rejoicing and hiding under the shadow of God’s “wings” (Psalm 17:8), we have no fears about the future. David is not saying here that he will have no troubles or trials, but he is saying that in and through them all the Lord will make him victorious. Please notice verse 11, and underline the word “but” - and then compare Psalm 91:1-7. There is much in our world to make us fearful, but we can hide in the Lord Himself as our refuge – look up Nahum 1:7.

The zealous Christian proves the present strength of God upholding him

No-one can follow the Lord in his own strength or energy. None of us can follow hard after Him unless we “cling” to Him, as our key verse suggests. Think of being upheld all day, every day, and moment by moment, by the mighty hand of God!

Perhaps we have been following at a distance – look up Luke 22:54. Pray for grace and make a vow to the Lord that with His help we will follow hard after Him and be His zealous followers.

THE WORKER’S CONFLICT

“I want you to know how much I am struggling for you.”

(Colossians 2:1)

The Apostle Paul had never seen the Christians at Laodicea and Colosse face to face, and yet in writing to them he spoke of his very deep concern for their spiritual welfare, and of his burden for their spiritual and eternal well-being (Colossians 2:1). How he bared his soul! Paul, of course, is a model for every minister, pastor, leader and worker in the Lord’s vineyard, and although we can never hope to equal his example yet we need to seek grace to follow his example. Each of us as servants of the Lord should at once ask: Have I any real concern for the souls in my care? – for the children in my Sunday school class? – for the members of my church? – for those to whom I minister privately or in public? – do I experience any conflict in relation to their spiritual well-being? – how deep is my concern for them? In Colossians 2:1-5 we are told seven things about this conflict which the apostle mentions:-

THE NATURE OF THE CONFLICT

What kind of a conflict was this? It was not primarily physical, but spiritual, mental and emotional. The heart of the apostle yearned over the Christians at Laodicea and Colosse, and this yearning issued in a volume of intercessory prayer for them. His conflict was a burden of spiritual desire that was poured out in prayer, for the blessing of the Lord to rest on those who had been converted through his ministry, or who had been under his spiritual care. Such conflict, of course, does affect the body. Doubtless the guards in Paul’s rented house (Acts 28:30) not only heard Paul pray, but they saw him pray, as he lifted his arms towards heaven and as his whole being seemed to tremble as he poured out his petitions. Do we know anything of such a conflict for others who are so dependent on us to pray them through? – look up Romans 9:1-3.

THE INTENSITY OF THE CONFLICT

We get a sense of this intensity in verse 1. His prayer was not a passing, light kind of prayer; it was a heavy burden. The Greek word gives the thought that it was an agony. The apostle often referred in his letters to the Greek games – compare 1 Corinthians 9:24-26; 1 Timothy 6:12; Hebrews 12:1. Think of the intense effort given out by the athlete or the wrestler! – and how intense must be the Christian’s conflict if he is to win through in prayer for blessing on those for whom he has a spiritual concern! There are always obstacles in the way when running a race – look up Ephesians 6:12, and compare Colossians 1:29.

THE SUBJECTS OF THE CONFLICT

Look again at verse 1 – it is important to notice that Paul is not speaking about concern for the unsaved, but for the saved, for those who were babes in Christ and who needed to grow – compare Colossians 1:28. Paul is speaking about a passion for the sanctification of the saints, a passion for the spiritual welfare of those who had been converted and needed to go on and on in the Christian life. Do we share this concern for babes in Christ?

THE NECESSITY OF THE CONFLICT

Paul tells us in verse 4 why it was such an urgent matter to wage prayer warfare for his fellow believers; they were in great danger of being lured into false doctrine. He had already seen this, and it placed a heavy burden upon him that the Enemy was undermining God’s work – compare Colossians 2:8. We know that these dangers exist today – Christians facing humanistic philosophies that discount the power and wisdom of God, and often these are put out in the name of so-called scholarship. In addition to this there is the dangerous propagation all around us of false cults. Paul felt that if someone did not engage in a conflict for the protection of these babes in Christ, they would be drawn away from their firm standing in Christ. Do we feel the same?

THE PURPOSE OF THE CONFLICT

Verses 2-3 tell us that Paul prayed that they might be blessed in five ways:-

That they might be ENCOURAGED. Discouragement is the first enemy that attacks the new convert.
That they might be UNITED IN LOVE. There is safety for us in loving and in being loved.
That they might be ENRICHED, “have the full riches” – look up Ephesians 1:3 and Colossians 2:9-10.
That they might be ESTABLISHED, have “complete understanding” – compare 1 Thessalonians 1:5 and Hebrews 6:11.
That they might be ENLIGHTENED. Paul prayed that they might understand “the mystery of God”, that they might discover their all in Christ.

THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE CONFLICT

This is indicated in verse 5. Though Paul was separated from these Christians geographically, he was actually with them in spirit. One translator has rendered it, “I am by your side, watching you like a proud father.’ What joy it brought to Paul to see his prayers answered in their lives.

THE SECRET OF THE CONFLICT

How can we be faithful in exercising this ministry of loving concern for others? The answer is in 2 Corinthians 3:5.

THE WORKER’S PERIL

“But Jesus turned and rebuked them…”

(Luke 9:55)

Jesus spoke these solemn words to His disciples. They contain a rebuke, and they are the key that unlocks Luke chapter 9. Notice that His challenging words tell us that it is possible to know the Lord, to belong to Him, to be His servant, friend and follower, and yet to be out of touch and out of fellowship with Him – in other words, to have a wrong spirit. These twelve men to whom our Lord was speaking had been chosen and called by Him, and they had enjoyed His intimate fellowship for over two years; and yet their hearts did not really beat in harmony with His heart; their spirits did not blend with His and their outlook was quite different from His. In many ways they were totally unlike Him and their feelings and sympathies were contrary to His. We, too, have been called and chosen by Him, and perhaps we have walked closely to Him for many years, and yet it may be true that in many respects we are out of touch, out of harmony and out of sympathy with Him; we may have a wrong spirit, and the Lord has to rebuke us and say, ‘Your spirit is wrong!’ Notice here seven ways in which the Lord’s disciples may be characterised by a wrong spirit:-

The professional or official spirit, as seen in verse 12

These disciples had been commissioned by the Lord to evangelise, and they had actually been engaged in that task – look up verse 6; but how strange it was that when they had a great opportunity to preach the gospel to a large crowd their only thought was to “send them away!” Jesus’ loving concern in verse 13 is very different! There is a great danger which faces every servant of the Lord, the danger of professionalism. It is possible to go through all the motions of service, whether by preaching, teaching or visiting, and for that service to lack soul and heart and reality.

The impulsive, undisciplined spirit, as seen in verse 33

How impulsive Peter was! He frequently said and did things and then wished he could recall his words and cancel out his actions (John 18:26). Notice the last few words in verse 33. Peter was out of touch and spiritually blind. He suggested building three shelters, but he missed the deep significance of the occasion, only being concerned about external things. Are we like that? - only concerned about the crowd, the great music, the large offerings, and all the time we, like Peter, are without any depth in our spiritual experience.

The faithless and prayerless spirit, as seen in verse 40

Read verses 37-41. What had happened to these disciples? Verse 1 tells us that Jesus had given them “power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases”, but now they were powerless and ineffective. Certainly they were out of touch with the Lord, because Jesus had to say to them – verse 41. Look up Matthew 17:19-21. There were two reasons for their powerlessness: unbelief and prayerlessness; the result of these two things is always powerlessness, and that is where many Christians fail. They do not really believe God, do not really pray, and then they wonder why nothing happens. The reason is that there is a wrong spirit, a faithless and prayerless spirit.

The blind, undiscerning spirit, as seen in verse 45

Although these disciples had been with Jesus for so long they still could not understand the truth that He longed to show them (John 16:12). They were spiritual babes with little capacity for the deeper truths; they were immature and undeveloped, and their spirit was wrong; their hearts were not beating in harmony with His. How greatly we need the enlightenment which the Holy Spirit gives to the humble and believing Christian! Look up 1 Corinthians 2:10 and 14.

The self-seeking, ambitious spirit, as seen in verse 46

Who would have thought these disciples, in the presence of the meek and humble One, would act as verse 46 tells us? What a contradiction in terms! – a proud, self-important, self-assertive, self-seeking disciple of Christ! Is it possible that you are like that? In verses 47-48 we notice Jesus dealt with this wrong spirit; He knew exactly what was going on in their hearts, just as He knows the thoughts of our hearts. Pray for deliverance from this evil spirit.

The sectarian spirit, as seen in verse 49

It is possible to be intensely jealous of our ecclesiastical and denominational position and yet to be completely out of touch with the Lord. Verses 49-50 should caution us to be large-hearted and generous in our sympathies. God has His own true children who meet and worship in many different assemblies, denominations and churches, and to these born-again, blood-washed children He says that they are “all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

The vindictive, intolerant spirit, as seen in verse 54

Now read verses 55-56. Religious intolerance is one of the most dreadful things imaginable. It leads to bitterness and dissension, and it most certainly always blocks the way to revival. We must certainly contend for the faith in a day of apostasy, as Jude 3 exhorts us – but look up 2 Timothy 2:24-25.

We have considered seven wrong spirits which characterised the twelve disciples; in all probability they characterise us in some measure. Has the Lord shown us that our spirit is contrary to His, and that although we have served Him for many years, often we are out of touch with Him? We must confess our failure, and pray David’s prayers recorded in Psalm 51:10 and Psalm 19:14.

THE WORKER’S MARKS

: “…for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.”

(Galatians 6:17)

The Apostle Paul wore a badge which marked him out as being a true servant of the Lord Jesus Christ: He bore on his body “the marks of Jesus”. Is there anything about us which marks us out as belonging to Christ and which identifies us with Him? In this verse the word ‘I’ is emphatic in the Greek. Does it mean that Paul was boasting? No! In this letter he was vindicating his ministry, because many of the Jewish teachers had led the Galatian Christians to believe that he was not truly an apostle as he had not known the Lord when He was on the earth. Here Paul is comparing himself with these judaising teachers, who were subverting the Galatians, and he asked: Have they the marks of the Lord Jesus upon them? No – but I have! What is the proof of our attachment to Christ? Is it the words we speak? Yes, but there should be other distinctive marks about our lives which identify us as Christians.

THE LITERAL EXPLANATION OF THE APOSTLE’S STATEMENT

When speaking about bearing in his body the marks of the Lord Jesus, he was thinking of an old custom of branding certain people with a hot searing iron. Slaves were branded as a mark of ownership or of shame; soldiers were branded as a mark of allegiance to their generals; religious devotees would be branded by the priests in heathen temples as a mark of devotion and loyalty. The brand-marks of the Lord on Paul’s body consisted of each of these. They identified him as a slave of Christ (Philippians 1:1); they were the marks of shame and reproach in the eyes of the world (1 Corinthians 9:22); they were brand-marks of the soldier (2 Timothy 4:7); they were marks of devotion and loyalty (2 Corinthians 5:14). Paul’s marks were the bodily scars and blemishes that he bore as a result of persecution through his faithfulness to Christ. Turn to 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 for a description of the fearful physical sufferings he endured, and notice five kinds of suffering mentioned:-

“In prison more frequently…” Compare Acts 16:23 with Ephesians 3:1.
“Exposed to death again and again…” It seems that on one occasion he was actually killed, and God mercifully raised him up (Acts 14:19-20) and compare 2 Corinthians 12:1-4.
“Five times I received…the forty lashes minus one…” - inflicted with a long leather strap divided into thongs, and to each was attached stones or pieces of metal, so the back would be lacerated with deep, jagged wounds.
“Three times I was beaten with rods…” This method of punishment was inflicted upon Paul and Silas at Philippi – look up Acts 16:22-23.
“Once I was stoned…” Large boulders would be hurled at the victim until his body was reduced to a pulp.

Do these scars put us to shame? Most of us want to be easy-going Christians and we know little of suffering for Christ’s sake. We should be praying fervently for Christians in many countries who are suffering mercilessly for the gospel’s sake. We may be called to do so at any future time and we need to be given grace to be faithful to death – look up Acts 5:40-42; Revelation 2:10.

THE SPIRITUAL APPLICATION OF THE APOSTLE’S STATEMENT

There is a spiritual application which applies to all who are Christ’s true disciples. Just as those physical marks branded Paul as one of Christ’s slaves, His property, His soldier and His follower, so we should bear those spiritual marks. What are the marks of the Lord Jesus which should characterise us?

A cluster of fruit (Galatians 5:22-23). These are the marks of the Lord Jesus, for He personified them all; and as we are united with Him by faith, the marks which so completely characterised His life will characterise ours.
A spirit of meekness (Galatians 6:1). It is such an important characteristic of the Christian that we give it special emphasis. The opposite of this spirit of meekness is in Galatians 5:26 – and compare Matthew 11:28-30.
A willingness to share the burdens of others (Galatians 6:2). If we follow in His steps we shall be like our Lord Jesus in bearing one another’s burdens.
A willingness to support those who minister (Galatians 6:6). Compare 1 Corinthians 9:7-15.
A life made up of doing good (Galatians 6:9-10) – look up Acts 10:38.
A complete separation from the world (Galatians 6:14). If the marks of the Lord Jesus are upon us we shall recognise that while we are in the world we are not to live like it, and we shall see to it that His prayer for us is fulfilled (John 17:15-16).
A glorifying of the Cross (Galatians 6:14). We shall give glory in the preaching of the cross, the story of the cross, and above all in the victory of the cross – for it is through the cross that we are saved and sanctified. But in what sense did the Lord Jesus glory in the cross? It was to Him a token of God’s will for Him, and He gloried in doing the will of His Father. This is the supreme mark of the Lord Jesus which should be upon His followers. The will of God was the consuming passion of His life, and it should be the consuming passion of each one of His followers (Luke 22:42).

Let us ask the Lord that He will honour us by placing upon us “the marks of the Lord Jesus”, so that others may readily see who we belong to and whom we serve, until the time comes when we are able to say with the apostle Paul –

2 Timothy 4:6-8!

THE WORKER’S VICTORY

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.”

(Ephesians 6:10)

The Christian life is a victorious life and we are to serve the Lord victoriously. We are to be “strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” These words introduce our theme, which is amplified in Ephesians 6:10-19. In his letters Paul uses metaphors when speaking of the Christian life: it is a walk (AV) – look up Ephesians 2:2; 2:10; 4:1; 4:17; 5:2; 5:8; 5:15. In chapters 5 and 6, wives (5:22-24), husbands (5:25-31), children (6:1-3), fathers (6:4), servants (6:5-8) and masters (6:9) are all told how to walk. But Paul changes the metaphor, and in Ephesians 6:10 we see something of the stern side of the Christian life, where there is a fight to be fought; there is a powerful enemy to face and we can only be “more than conquerors” as we “put on the full armour of God”. Paul is emphasising that we, as Christians, are not only saints (Ephesians 1:1); sons (Ephesians 1:5); but we are also soldiers – compare Ephesians 6:11 with 1 Timothy 6:12. As soldiers we must fight in the conflict (1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7); and if we are to be victorious soldiers in God’s army we must understand the nature of the conflict, the character of the enemy and the vital necessity of putting on our armour.

THE NATURE OF THE CONFLICT

Some people have the idea that in the Christian life it is always easy and joyful when serving Christ. A study of Paul’s words, however, will soon dispel these ideas. Notice the nature of the conflict in which we are engaged.

It is a real warfare. It is a literal fight against a literal enemy; the word ‘against’ occurs six times in verses 11 and 12.
It is a conflict between real antagonists. Who are they? “The Lord” on the one hand (Ephesians 6:10), and “the Devil” (Ephesians 6:11). The soldiers, or allies, of the Lord are described as “saints” in verse 18. Satan’s allies are described in verse 12.
It is a fierce conflict. Verse 12 shows us how deadly a fight it is.
It is hand-to-hand conflict. Our part is to ‘wrestle’ or to ‘struggle’, as verse 12 tells us. This implies close-combat fighting.
It is a spiritual conflict. It is as literal as any battle against “flesh and blood”, but it is ten thousand times more deadly since it is a conflict with the superhuman and the invisible – look up Luke 12:4.

This is not far-fetched or fanciful; it is God’s revealed truth and we must accept it, and if we do so we shall be spurred on to “put on the full armour of God”.

THE CHARACTER OF THE ENEMY

We learn three things about him:

(1) He is a real person. Today his personality is often questioned, but scripture never does this. The names given to Satan and the actions attributed to him imply personality: deceiver, liar, murderer, accuser, tempter, prince etc. – look up Job1:6; Isaiah 14:12; Matthew 4:10; Matthew 6:13; Matthew 9:34; Matthew 10:25; Matthew 25:41; Luke 4:12; John 8:44; John 12:31; 2 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Thessalonians 2:18; 3:5.

(2) He occupies an exalted position. From Ephesians 2:2 we learn that he is “the ruler of the kingdom of the air”, indicating his control as ruler over evil spirits; and from John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11, we learn that he is “the prince of this world”, showing his domination in the lives of “those who are disobedient” (Ephesians 2:2). He has a kingdom (Matthew 12:26), he is “the god of this age” (2 Corinthians 4:4), and he counterfeits true Christianity (1 Corinthians 10:20-21; 2 Corinthians 11:14 and Revelation 2:9).

(3) He is very powerful. We learn this from Acts 26:18. It is subtle (2 Corinthians 11:14); sinister (Colossians 1:13); active (Ephesians 2:2); supernatural (2 Thessalonians 2:9); and destructive (Hebrews 2:14).

One of the first requirements, if we are to be victorious in Christian living and in serving the Lord, is that we should know our enemy, his power and his strategy.

THE SECRET OF VICTORY

Ephesians 6:10-18 reveals the following three-fold secret:-

We must recognise our standing in Christ. Go through verse 10 word by word and notice that we are only strong “in the Lord”. There is no strength or ability to wage this warfare apart from God’s. We are to stand, not in our own strength, but in His – compare verses 11, 13 and 14.
We must accept our protection from Christ. This is described in verses 11 and 13 as “the full armour of God”. Five pieces are for defensive warfare and only one is for offensive warfare. Notice that there is no protection for the back because (to change the figure) – look up Luke 9:62! Our part is to “put on” these pieces of armour:- (1) The belt of truth (verse 14). As the belt encompassed the soldier, so truth must encompass our whole life (Psalm 51:6; John 8:32; 3 John 4). There must be no hypocrisy, no insincerity, and no compromise. (2) The breastplate of righteousness (verse 14). This covers very vital organs. We must stand firm in Christ who is our righteousness (1 John 3:7). (3) Shoes ready for action. When tempted and tried we are sustained (Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:7). (4) The shield of faith (verse 16). Faith must operate in every part of our life; we are literally to live by faith (Romans 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:7). (5) The helmet of salvation (verse 17). An unprotected mind is a ready prey to Satan’s deceptions, delusions and defilements (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). (6) The sword of the Spirit (verse 17). Turn to Matthew 4:4-10 and Hebrews 4:12 to see how to use the sword against the enemy.
We must maintain our communion with Christ (verse 18) – it is essential for real victory.

THE WORKER’S CONFIDENCE

“Whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” (Romans 14:8)

Our study is based upon the words of this verse, in Romans chapter 14. The apostle expounds what might be called the Christian’s brotherly responsibilities – the responsibilities the Christian has towards other Christians. The words in verse 8, however, are vital, and they provide us with a practical and challenging theme. They declare the fact that if we are the Lord’s, if we belong to Him, having acknowledged His sovereignty in our life, we should be willing to say with complete confidence – “whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord”. We do not know what the future holds, except that it must in its nature be full of uncertainty (Psalm 90:9-10; Proverbs 27:1; James 4:13-15; 1 Peter 1:24). What we do know, however, is that “whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord”. Notice three main thoughts.

THE PRIVILEGE WE ENJOY

It is this: that “we live…” For the Christian to be able to say ‘I belong to the Lord’ is a rare and joyful privilege. To the unbeliever life must seem very frustrating and without purpose. The worldly person, the man or the woman who is not a Christian, has no hope for the future, for eternity. What a tragedy! But how different it is for the Christian! Among the many reasons why it is a privilege for the Christian to live are the following two:-

Think of the privilege of living for the Lord. Think of the amazing privilege to walk with Him, like Enoch (Genesis 5:21-24); to talk with Him, like Moses (Exodus 33:9); to be guided by Him, like David (Psalm 32:8); to be provided for by Him (Psalm 37:25). What a privilege it is to know His joy, peace and presence every day! – look up Philippians 4:4-7. What a wonderful thing it is to be a Christian, and to know Jesus as Lord! – look up John 20:28.

Think of the privilege of serving the Lord. When Jesus was in the temple in Jerusalem at the age of twelve, He was engaged in His Father’s business, and surely this is a great privilege (John 20:21). We are His ambassadors, representing Him on the foreign soil of this world – look up 2 Corinthians 5:20; we are witnesses for Him (Acts 1:8); and our job is to tell others, to preach the gospel, to make Christ known, as we are reminded in Matthew 28:18-20.

So, “whether we live…” – well, we do live; and this is the privilege we enjoy. But we do not live down here for ever. Sooner or later we must go….!

THE APPOINTMENT WE KEEP

This is indicated in the words “or (whether we) die…”, and it is referred to in Hebrews 9:27. Of course, if the Lord comes in our lifetime we shall go to be with Him without dying, as we learn from 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. God has His appointment book in which the day of our departure is recorded; but there are two things about this appointment, and these refer to the Christian:

Death is a blessed experience for the Christian. If you will link together 2 Corinthians 5:8, Philippians 1:23, Revelation 14:13, you will see this fact clearly stated. We all have a strong instinct to live, but to die will only take us into the presence of the Lord – look up Psalm 116:15. We do not think enough about the fact that “heaven is better than this!” and “to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).

The Lord Jesus has conquered death and has removed death’s sting. We learn this by a comparison of 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 and Romans 14:8-9. We must keep this appointment; but we need not be afraid because all will be well – that is, if we really belong to the Lord. There is no need to be fearful of death, or of the Lord’s return if it should be our privilege to go without dying, for the One who is coming for us is “this same Jesus” – look up John 14:1-3 and Acts 1:9-11.

THE CONFIDENCE WE HAVE

What is our confidence? This does not mean that we shall not suffer, that we shall have no pain, or that we shall escape trials. Our confidence is that we are the Lord’s, and that is all that matters. We belong to Him. Notice this:-

We are the Lord’s here and now. While we live on the earth and serve Him we are His! We are His by election (1 Peter 1:2); by choice (John 15:16); by donation (John 6:37); by redemption (1 Corinthians 6:19-20); and by our own decision (Luke 19:5-6). We are His now!

We are the Lord’s for ever. We are eternally His and nothing can ever alter this. Look up John 10:28-29 and Romans 8:35-39. Nothing on earth or in hell can alter this wonderful fact. Turn to 1 Peter 1:3-5 and rejoice in the great truth of the believer’s security in Christ.

“So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

THE WORKER’S ANOINTING

“I shall be anointed with fresh oil.” (Psalm 92:10)

No-one can live for the Lord or serve Him in his own strength, and the last seven words of our verse affirm this fact. It is impossible for anyone to live in a way which is pleasing to God, or serve Him effectively and fruitfully, without the holy anointing spoken of by the psalmist. This anointing is indispensable. If we are failing in our Christian walk, if we are fruitless in Christian service, here is the reason: it is because we are not living and working in the anointing of the Holy Spirit. We must ask and answer several questions:-

WHAT IS THIS HOLY ANOINTING?

The answer is clear: it is the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Look up Luke 24:19. Oil in scripture is a type or symbol of the Holy Spirit, and we must note carefully that even our Lord Jesus Christ, who was “holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners” (Hebrews 7:26), was anointed with the Holy Spirit before He embarked on His public ministry (Luke 4:18-19). Compare Acts 10:38. Before He ascended Jesus promised that His servants would receive this anointing, and indicated that only after they had been anointed and empowered with the Holy Spirit would they be able to live and serve effectively in His Name (Acts 1:8). Compare Acts 2:4. The anointing of the Holy Spirit was a definite experience in the life of the Lord and in the lives of the first Christians. We may know this too.

FOR WHOM IS THIS ANOINTING AVAILABLE?

The answer is clear: for every single Christian, for all who have been born of the Spirit (John 3:5); sealed by the Spirit (Ephesians 1:13); baptised by the Spirit into the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 6:19); for this is more than these. The priest of old needed to be anointed, but so did the prophet and the king – and we need to be anointed in the same way, anointed with the fresh oil of the Holy Spirit.

HOW MAY WE HAVE THIS ANOINTING?

Notice that there are four steps which we must take:

(1) We must acknowledge our need. It is a terrible thing to have to admit, but Christians are often proud and self-satisfied. Do you agree? Put yourself to the test. Are you satisfied with your Christian life? Are you satisfied with the victory you gain over sin? Are you satisfied with the way you are living for the Lord each day? Are you satisfied with your prayer life, with your soul-winning effort? How can we be satisfied? Perhaps the more important question is: Is God satisfied? The first step we must take if we would have this holy anointing is to acknowledge our need; that is, to acknowledge our need of the Holy Spirit to rest upon us and to possess and equip us – look up John 7:37-39.

We must forsake our sin. We must be willing to be cleansed from anything and everything that is displeasing to the Lord – look up and compare 2 Corinthians 7:1 and 1 John 1:9, and then turn to Exodus 30:31-32. The holy anointing oil of the Holy Spirit will never come in power and unction on “man’s flesh” (AV). The sins of the spirit and of the flesh must be recognised, confessed and renounced before we can be anointed with power – look up Proverbs 28:13 and compare Ephesians 4:30.

We must surrender our life. We must know in personal experience the meaning of Romans 12:1; we must give ourselves completely to the Lord – spirit, soul and body – to be His. Look up 1 Thessalonians 5:23. In the record of his life we have these words from Hudson Taylor, that great missionary to China: “Well do I remember the day when I, in unreserved consecration, put myself, my life, my friends, my all upon the altar…” Well, if we will acknowledge our need, forsake our sin and surrender our life, we shall then be almost at the place where we can say, “I shall be anointed with fresh oil”. But there is one more step we must take.

We must make our request. That is to say, we must pray and ask the Lord that He will graciously anoint us with the Holy Spirit, for our act of prayer is also an act of faith. It is true on the one hand that we do not need to ask for the Holy Spirit, because He has been given to us and made available to all God’s children; but on the other hand, to come before the Lord in prayer and to ask for His gracious anointing, infilling and empowering, is to confess our need and to express our confidence in Him. It is like saying, ‘Lord, I am inadequate and powerless in myself. Grant me this gracious anointing with fresh oil’. Our loving Heavenly Father is always more anxious to give than we are to receive – look up Luke 11:13 . So let us “ask and continue to ask Him” (Amplified Bible), for the anointing with fresh oil.

If we acknowledge our need, forsake our sin, surrender our life and make our request, will it then be presumptuous to believe that God has given us His holy anointing? No, it will not! For what God promises faith takes, and it is significant that in the Revised Version rendering of our key-verse, the words we are considering read: “I am anointed with fresh oil”. This is the language of faith.

THE WORKER’S LORD

“Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all” (Acts 10:36)

The most important truth in relation to Christian experience is that Jesus Christ is Lord. Our Saviour’s great objective in all His redemptive work was ‘that He might be Lord’ in the life of every believer – look up Philippians 2:5-11. Whether we recognise it or not, He is Lord – look up Acts 2:36. In recognition of His work in redemption, God has constituted His Son “both Lord and Christ”. The Father has given to the Son absolute supremacy. Our Lord Jesus Christ has no equal and no rival. He has no superior; there is none before, beside or beyond Him: “For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living” (Romans 14:9).

In our Christian experience we under-estimate the importance of the fact of the sovereignty of Christ. We delight to speak of Him as our Saviour – (Matthew 1:21; Luke 19:10; Romans 10:9-14; 1 Timothy 1:15; Hebrews 7:25) – but the One whom we call Saviour is our Lord (Matthew 3:3; Luke 2:11; Acts 2:36; 10:36; Romans 10:9). Accepting Him as Saviour implies submitting to Him as Sovereign. The One whom we receive as our Saviour (John 1:12) is the Lord; the One who comes into our heart (Revelation 3:20) is the One who sits on the throne (Revelation 3:21). It is great to rejoice in Him as our Saviour, but unless we have recognised that He is the Lord Jesus Christ, and have submitted to His lordship, we have not entered into the full meaning of what it is to be a Christian. What is He to you, now…? Jesus? or the Lord Jesus?

IS JESUS CHRIST LORD OF YOUR LIFE?

We must be practical and specific as we answer this question:

Man is a tri-partite being, consisting of spirit, soul and body, so that if Jesus is Lord of my life it means He holds absolute sway and exercises complete sovereignty in the realm of my spirit, soul and body.
Man consists of heart, mind and will; or, to put it another way, he is an emotional, intellectual and volatile being. If Jesus is Lord of my life it means that He is Lord of my heart, mind and will.
Every person has a physical body and many members in that body, of which the apostle speaks in Romans 6:13 – eyes, ears, lips, hands, feet, etc. If Jesus is Lord of my life it means He is Lord of my eyes, ears, lips, hands and feet – indeed of every
Our life includes our home, occupation, friends, possessions, relationships, friendships, habits and our service. If Jesus is Lord of my life it means that He is sovereign in all areas of my life. He is upon the throne and there is no rival; He is there at my invitation with my willing and glad consent. Is He Lord in your life like that?

THE IMPLICATIONS OF HIS LORDSHIP

We need to consider how it works out in our daily experience as a Christian.

It implies absolute ownership. If He is Lord of my life, then all that I am and have is His. I do not belong to myself, but I am altogether His, as Paul reminds me in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. When Christ is Lord of my life, all that I have spoken of before as ‘mine’ is no longer mine but His; no longer ‘my’ body, ‘my’ talents, ‘my’ money, ‘my’ loved ones, ‘my’ home, but His.
It implies unquestioning obedience. If He is Lord of my life, then whatever He says I shall do. Why? Because He is Lord, and as Lord and Master He is fully entitled to have His way in my life and to expect me to obey Him implicitly. When He says, ‘Do this!’ or ‘Do that!’ I will gladly do it, if He is Lord. Look up Matthew 8:9. It is not logical to speak of Him as Lord and then to disobey Him; His lordship implies an acceptance of His will and obedience to His will – look up Acts 9:6.
It implies wholehearted service. If He is Lord of my life, wherever He directs me I shall go. In Isaiah 6:1,5,8, Isaiah uses the name “Lord” three times. Isaiah recognised the lordship of the pre-incarnate Christ; such recognition can be a very disturbing thing, as Isaiah found! The sovereignty of Christ can change our whole lives; but when Christ’s lordship is accepted wholeheartedly it is easy to rejoice in His undisputed sway and to do His will gladly.
It implies implicit trust. If He is Lord of my life, whatever He permits I shall accept, even if it makes the tears run down my face and causes my heart to break. If He is Lord I shall find grace to say, ‘Lord, I cannot understand…but I am trusting You; I know that all is well and that You, my Lord, are working out Your purpose in my life.’ If Jesus is really Lord of my life, when troubles and trials come I am able to say – Job 1:21!
It implies certain reward. If He is Lord of my life, then one day I shall hear Him say, “Well done!” – Matthew 25:21.

What a glorious thing it is that we, as Christians, may actually give the Lord Jesus His rightful place in our lives! Recognising who He is (Acts 10:36), and because He has demonstrated His lordship (Matthew 8:27; Luke 5:4-6; John 21:6), and, moreover, because of our own great need of a supreme control in our lives, we may humbly bow before Him, surrender to Him and crown Him Lord of all!

HOW CAN WE MAKE JESUS LORD OF ALL?

Note that we cannot do this in our own strength. No-one can do so – for God plainly declares that “No-one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord…’ “ (1 Corinthians 12:3), and that is His final word on the matter. It is absolutely impossible in ourselves and in our own strength to make Jesus Lord of our lives. But, thank God, there is One who will, if we ask Him, enable us to crown Him Lord of all; and that One is the Holy Spirit – “No-one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the Holy Spirit.” Will you ask Him to enable you to make Jesus Lord in your life?

THE FARMER, THE SEED, AND THE SOILS

(: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23;

Mark 4:1-9, 14-20; Luke 8:4-9, 11-15)

It is significant that in the four Gospels thirty-five of the Lord’s miracles and thirty-five of His parables are recorded! These parables, which are unique in all literature, are miracles of spiritual teaching: words “aptly spoken…” (Proverbs 25:11) by the Man of whom it was said – look up John 7:46. These parables are word-pictures; they are like “apples of gold in settings of silver” (against the silvery background of foliage).

What is a parable? It is an illustration – ‘an earthly story with a heavenly meaning’ – a story that is true to life and that is told in the form of a parable, to make the truth clearer and easier to understand. We should bear in mind three principles of interpretation: (1) each parable has one main message; (2) each parable has several secondary details, each of which has a spiritual meaning which is related to the main truth; (3) each parable has details that are necessary to complete the earthly story but which have no spiritual meaning.

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This parable of the Farmer, the Seeds and the Soils was probably the first of the Lord’s parables, and it is certainly a foundation parable (Mark 4:13).

There are three important parts that need to be clearly understood.

The whole parable has to do with the Farmer, the seed, and the four kinds of soil into which the seed fell. (1) The Farmer is our Lord Himself. Look up Matthew 13:37. When He was here on earth He sowed the seed. Today He still sows the seed through all who faithfully preach His Word (1 Corinthians 3:6). (2) The Seed is the Word of God, consisting of the Gospel and of all the revealed truth of God. What a wonderful seed it is – look up 1 Peter 1:23! It is living and life-giving. (3) The Soil is the Human Heart. Four kinds of soil are mentioned, and it is important to see that there was nothing wrong with the seed. It was the reception of the seed which was wrong, in three cases – and right in one case.

The different kinds of ground represent four distinct ways in which the Word is treated by those who hear it.

Whenever the Gospel (the Word of God) is preached by the Lord through His faithful servants, there are four kinds of hearers:-

The HARD-GROUND hearer. The interpretation is in Matthew 13:4. Here is the person who hears the Word but whose heart is hard, without depth; the Word is not received; while it stays on the surface the birds come and take it away. Many people are like that: they come to church, hear the Word, seem to like it – but the Word is on their hearts, not in their hearts. Judas Iscariot was like this (Luke 22:47-48).
The STONY-GROUND hearer. We read in Matthew 13:5 that the soil was too shallow, and it represents the hearer who is superficial. The interpretation is in Matthew 13:20-21. Many profess conversion; they even go on well until trouble or persecution comes, and then they give up. Simon Magus was a “stony-ground” hearer (Acts 8:9-24).
The THORNY-GROUND hearer. Read Matthew 13:7. This is the double-minded hearer, one whose heart is worldly and preoccupied with money (Matthew 6:24). The interpretation is in Matthew 13:22. Many today appear to receive the word, but when they allow money and possessions to rule their lives (Mark 4:19), the Word becomes choked. Ananias and Sapphira were “thorny-ground” hearers (Acts 5:1-11).
The GOOD-GROUND hearer. Read Matthew 13:8. This is the hearer who is honest, receptive and fruitful. The interpretation is in Matthew 13:23; Mark 4:20; Luke 8:15. Nathaniel (John 1:45-51), the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39), and Cornelius (Acts 10:1-2, 44-48) are illustrations.

What useful lessons can we learn from this parable?

We must pay close attention to what we hear. Look up Matthew 13:9; Mark 4:9; Luke 8:8; and compare Luke 8:18. When the Lord taught this parable He knew the hearts of His hearers; He also knows our hearts (John 2:25). What kind of hearers are we?
Hearts need to be prepared before they can receive the Word and be saved and blessed. Just as the soil needs preparing by the farmer, so those of us who minister to souls must prepare the way by much prayer. Prayer breaks up the unploughed ground (Hosea 10:12), and prepares the way for God’s Word to be received (Acts 4:29-30).
Preachers and teachers should not be discouraged when results seem small. There will always be four kinds of hearers, and we have no promise that all will be saved, or that all who are saved will bear much fruit (John 15:7-8). But we do know 1 Corinthians 15:58!
Preachers and teachers must aim at a deep work. There is much superficial top-soil work being done today. Let us beware of this!
The two-fold objective of all true preaching and teaching is indicated here: (1) that souls may be saved, converted by believing (Matthew 13:15; Luke 8:12); (2) that those who are saved should bear fruit (Luke 8:15).
We are warned to beware of special dangers: (1) Satan is always ready to snatch away the Word (Matthew 13:19; Mark 4:15); (2) troubles are the experiences of every believer (Matthew 13:21; John 16:33); (3) all of us will have to suffer persecution (Matthew 13:21; Acts 5:4); (4) we all experience the worries of this life (Matthew 13:22; Galatians 6:5); (5) some are faced with the danger of riches (Matthew 13:22; Mark 10:23); (6) there is the danger of desires for other things (Mark 4:19); (7) there is the danger of being content with the greatest possible yield of fruitfulness (Mathew 13:23).
“If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples” (John 8:31).

CHAPTER 3

THE PHARISEE AND THE TAX COLLECTOR

(Luke 18:9-14)

Dr R. A. Torrey suggested that this parable is an illustration of “a good man who was lost and a bad man who was saved”. Notice that the Pharisee, the ‘good’ man, was lost, not accepted by God; and it is the ‘bad’ man, the Tax Collector, who was saved and who “went home justified…” (verse 14). Looking at the parable in this way will certainly help us to emphasise the Bible doctrine of justification by grace, through faith, in the Person and finished work of Jesus. Read Luke 18:9-14 several times, and see the great contrast between the two men – the proud Pharisee who despised everyone and thought so much of himself, and the poor, humble Tax Collector who felt too unworthy even to look up to heaven. What a contrast!

Why was the Pharisee lost? Why was he not accepted by God?

Because he trusted in religion to save him. The Pharisees were the strictest and most religious sect among the Jews, but religion was an outward show. They were far more particular about that than about the condition of their hearts. The Pharisee in the parable is typical of every Pharisee who regularly visited the temple who, despite being religious, was actually far from God (Matthew 15:8). Of course, he has a great many modern descendants – multitudes of people who are trusting in religion to save them, but there is absolutely no salvation in religion. There is no salvation in Hinduism…in Christian Science…in Roman Catholicism…in Judaism…or in Protestantism – because there is no salvation in any system or religion. Salvation is in a Person, and that Person is the Lord Jesus Christ. Look up Acts 4:12.
Because he trusted in his good character to save him. In his so-called prayer he stated quite clearly that he thought himself to be a fine moral man. He lived a good, upright life (verse 11). He was not an extortioner, not unjust, not an adulterer – but for all that, he was lost, because a man’s good character can never save him. See what God says about it in Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16. If we could live a perfect life from now on, and if all our past sins could be blotted out, we would still be lost, we would still be rejected by God, because there is only one way for a man to be justified, and that way is not by morality. If anyone reading this thinks that he or she is good enough to be accepted by God, let them look up Isaiah 64:6. Whatever you do, do not trust in yourself (verse 9) for salvation! If you do, you are doomed to failure.
Because he trusted religious observances, rites and ceremonies to save him (verse 12). We are reminded that multitudes of people today are trusting in their baptism, or christening, or confirmation, or attendance at the Lord’s Table, for acceptance before God. There is no salvation in religious observances; these things alone can never save the soul and justify us before a holy God.
Because he trusted in his good deeds to save him (verse 12). He gave tithes and was just like the people the Apostle Paul described in Romans 10:3. However hard and long we work, however much good we do, all this effort cannot save us. Look up Ephesians 2:8-10, and compare Titus 3:5.

Why was the Tax Collector saved? Why was he accepted by God?

Because he stood before God as a lost sinner (verse 13). Literally he prayed, “God, have mercy on me, the sinner”. The spirit of his prayer was, ‘I am the sinner – the only one as far as I am concerned’. Now look up Matthew 9:13 and 1 Timothy 1:15. It is the hardest thing in the world to get men and women to admit that they are guilty and lost sinners before God, but no-one can ever gain acceptance in the kingdom of God until they go in by the sinner’s door. Look up Romans 4:5.
Because he recognised God’s estimate of sin. He saw what a terrible thing sin is in the sight of God, because he stood “at a distance” and “beat his breast” (verse 13). He acknowledged that God was the Holy One and he condemned himself as the unholy one (Isaiah 6:5). The Pharisee compared himself with other men, and failed to see his need, but the Tax Collector compared himself with God, and saw how poor and needy he was. So conscious was the Tax Collector of his sinfulness and unworthiness that “he would not even look up to heaven…” Look up Psalm 40:12, and compare Psalm 51:9. Have you accepted God’s estimate of sin, and have you accepted it – in relation to yourself, and no-one else?
Because he pleaded the merit of Christ’s atoning sacrifice. He prayed, “God, be merciful to me, the sinner”. So he really pleaded for salvation on the ground of His finished work at Calvary, and this is the only ground upon which anyone can be saved. Look up Isaiah 53:6; John 1:29; 1 Peter 2:24. The Pharisee prayed, ‘Something in my hand I bring; simply to myself I cling…!’ But the Tax Collector prayed, ‘Nothing in my hand I bring; simply to thy Cross I cling…” Which is true of you?
Because he definitely asked God to save him. His prayer was like a holy telegram. Compare some others – Matthew 15:22; Luke 18:39; Luke 23:42, and then look up Romans 10:13. Have you asked Him to save you?

THE WEEDS AND THE WHEAT

(Matthew 13:24-30, 37-43)

In studying the Kingdom parables of Matthew 13 we must understand exactly what “the kingdom of heaven” means. It does not refer to heaven itself (John 14:1-3); nor does it refer to the Church. The Church is mentioned only once in this Gospel (Matthew 16:13-20), and while it is true that the Church is within the Kingdom, the Church is not the Kingdom. The expression “the kingdom of heaven” is used in at least two ways: (1) John the Baptist used it (Matthew 3:2); it refers to the Messianic earthly rule of the Lord Jesus, the Son of David. The King was about to come and set up His earthly kingdom, but He (the King) and the kingdom were both rejected (Luke 19:14; John 1:11). (2) As used in Matthew 13, the expression refers to Christendom, i.e. professing Christianity during our Lord’s bodily absence from the earth.

This parable tells us something about the visible professing Church that is in the world today. The teaching here does not concern the Church which is His Body (Ephesians 1:22-23), that living organism of born-again (1 Peter 1:23), redeemed (1 Peter 1:18-19), men and women, but of that larger, visible organisation which we call Christendom, and which consists of all who profess the name of Christ who are grouped together in many denominations.

With all this in mind, let us begin by noticing the details of the parable in verses 24-30, and the Lord’s explanation of it in verses 37-43.

The SOWER is the SON OF MAN (verses 24, 37). He is the Sower, or Farmer, mentioned in our first study, but in that parable we (Christian preachers, teachers, evangelists) are also sowers!
The FIELD is the WORLD (verses 24, 38). The sphere in which the Son of Man is sowing today is the whole world. Christendom is worldwide (John 3:16).
The SEEDS are the SONS OF THE KINGDOM (verses 24, 38). In the parable of the Sower the seed was the Word; here the seed consists of the redeemed, those who have been born again, planted by Christ in the world; they contain true life, for they are ‘wheat’ – living, fruitful seed.
The WEEDS are the SONS OF THE EVIL ONE (verses 25, 38). There are two sowers – one sowing wheat, the other sowing weeds, and the wheat and weeds are mixed together – Christ’s picture of the professing Church today – a Church consisting of the saved and unsaved.
The ENEMY is the DEVIL (verses 25, 26, 27, 39) - a real personality who is very active today in sowing weeds where the Lord has sown His wheat.
The HARVEST is THE END OF THE AGE. How solemn these words are!
The HARVESTERS are the ANGELS (verses 30, 41, 42). These words are more solemn, and are supported by the testimony of many other Scriptures.

What are the main lessons we can learn from this parable?

In the professing Church there will always be the wheat and the weeds.

Failure to recognise this has often led God’s people to become discouraged; we can lose heart. Also those who are not Christians, because they have not recognised that the wheat and weeds grow together, have stumbled when they have seen inconsistency in the lives of those who profess to be Christians. In every church there are the children of God (John 1:12-14) and the children of the Enemy (John 8:38-45).

The Devil’s objective is to mix evil with good, to hinder the growth of the Kingdom.

It all began in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:15). Since then Satan and Christ have been in deadly conflict: the Devil tried to interrupt the line through which Christ would be born; when He was born, Satan tried to murder Him (Matthew 2:16); in the wilderness he tried to overcome Him (Matthew 4:1-11); through His disciples he tried to deflect Him from the divine purpose (Matthew 16:21-23); finally he saw Him crucified – but, praise God, the Saviour rose again, and ever since it has been Satan’s aim to overthrow His Church. Satan has been sowing weeds, and this explains the divisions, false teaching and heresies that exist in our churches.

The Weeds look like Wheat, so we must never try to separate them, in case we uproot or spoil the Wheat.

The darnel is a weed which grows up with the wheat, but the difference cannot be seen until the blossom comes. How impossible it would be to separate the wheat from the darnel!

The Weeds actually spoil the Wheat.

When the blossom appears on the darnel it contains a poison which is blown over the wheat and threatens to destroy the fruit. This tells us that mere professors in the Church, those with no spiritual life, adversely influence the Christians. How important it is that we do not become ‘poisoned’! Look up Romans 16:17.

While the Sons of the Kingdom are asleep the Devil’s work prospers.

How sleepy God’s people have been through these 2000 years! While Christians have slept, the forces of evil have gained ground. The sleep of the Church has been the Devil’s opportunity. Look up Matthew 26:40; Luke 22:45-46; Romans 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:6. Remember, the Devil never sleeps!

The solemn fact of judgment and of future retribution is certain.

Read Matthew 13:30, 42; compare Revelation 14:18-20 and 20:11-15.

The Lord Jesus will be victorious and will gather all His own together to be with Him for ever.

The time of fearful separation is surely coming – fearful for those who are mere professing Christians, but wonderful beyond words for those who are the Lord’s. Read Matthew 13:30, 43; Ephesians 5:25-27!

THE OLDER BROTHER

(: Luke 15:25-32)

We often refer to the parables of Luke 15, but strictly speaking there is only one parable (as verses 1-3 indicate), and the teaching of the whole chapter (verses 1-32) should be taken as a whole. Here we are studying the most neglected and least-liked part of the parable, which relates to the older brother. The lost sheep, the lost silver, the lost son never cease to attract us, but the main lesson the Lord was teaching the scribes and Pharisees was contained in the latter part of the parable – the story of the older brother.

Who is the Older Brother? Not who was he – for he lives today! The Older Brother is presented to us as a “son” (verse 25), and as a “servant”; he is a perfect illustration of a worldly Christian: of one who is born again (John 1:12-14), but who is worldly (1 Corinthians 3:1-4); saved, but dominated by self.

What are the characteristics of a worldly Christian?

The Older Brother was filled with a spirit of ENVY and JEALOUSY.

This is shown clearly in verses 25-27! He should have been thrilled with gratitude that his brother had returned – but no – he is jealous! How does jealousy work? The first ten words in verse 28 tell us. What a cruel thing jealousy is (Proverbs 27:4)! It can starve us out of joy, peace and power. It can be seen in the face and heard in the voice. Jealousy is killing – look up Proverbs 6:34-35 and Song of Solomon 8:6; compare 1 Corinthians 3:3.

The Older Brother found service a DRUDGERY instead of a JOY.

We see this in verses 28-29. He was a good worker – certainly not lazy – but one mark of worldliness, of a low spiritual state, can be over-work! What the son really said was, ‘These many years I’ve been slaving for you…’ Although he was a son in the true sense of the word, he thought of himself as a slave! When a Christian is constantly rushing about, it is dangerously possible that he is working for the Lord in the energy of the flesh, and that he needs to learn to do less himself so that God may do more through him (Philippians 2:13). Does the love of Christ compel us to truly serve Him, and not to serve ourselves? Look up 2 Corinthians 5:14-15. If so, we shall feel it is our duty to serve the Lord (1 Corinthians 9:16), and we shall regard it as a privilege.

The Older Brother was DOMINATED by SELF.

Look up Romans 8:1, 13, and compare Galatians 5:19-21.

This man was self-righteous (verse 29). He had not done awful things his brother had been guilty of doing. There was a lot of truth in this, but his ‘holier-than-thou’ attitude was disgraceful! Compare Luke 18:11-12.
He was self-centred. In verse 29 we have the words ‘I’ or ‘me’. Are we always talking about ourselves, of our experiences and our achievements? Do we want to be the centre of attention? Are we self-centred, self-assertive, self-opinionated?
He was full of self-pity. He acted just like a baby! Read verse 29 again, and compare 1 Corinthians 3:1-2. Poor Older Brother -–what a sad and sorry spectacle he makes! Are you like him? The cure for self-pity is to “fix our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2).
He was self-satisfied. Yes, he was evidently content with his efforts to obey his father’s orders (verse 29). How many Christians are like that – living in bondage to the Law (Romans 8:1-17)!

The Older Brother was full of INGRATITUDE.

Hear him complaining in verse 29! He speaks of his “friends” but one wonders if he had any real friends! How much he had to be thankful for! – being spared the miseries of sin. Then, he had received his share of his father’s “property”, and as the older brother he would have received the larger portion – yet he was complaining and ungrateful – like any worldly Christian.

The Older Brother showed no concern or sympathy for the LOST.

How tragic verse 30 is! Yet there are Christians who think and speak like this. Do you detect his complete lack of sympathy with his father and brother as he says, “this son of yours….your property….prostitutes…”? But – what are we doing with the lost? – condemning them or seeking them? Face up to this: are we really filled with sympathy and loving concern to see them saved? Are we deeply concerned to help to restore the backslider?

The Older Brother was OUT OF SYMPATHY with his father.

This fact is written all over the story. The father had one burden and that was to see his lost son restored. But did the Older Brother share this burden? No! Do we? While we are content for sinners to remain in the far country and to die in their sins, how worldly we can be! – how little we share the passion, the love, and the spirit of our Master (Matthew 9:36; Luke 19:10)!

What is the remedy for this terrible disease of worldliness and self-centredness?

It is found in the amazing pity of the father and his tender words in verse 31. And if you are asking, ‘How can I be cured of my selfishness, self-centredness, self-pity, self-interest…?’ – notice the three things the father said to his son:

Think of your PRIVILEGE. “My son…” Compare 1 John 3:1-3. How unworthy the Older Brother’s attitude and spirit is for a son of God! Christian, rise to the full dignity of your high calling in Christ; you are a son of God – act like one!
Think of your POSITION. “You are always with me…” Yes, Christians are a heavenly people, with Christ now! Look up Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 3:1-3. How unworthy it is when heavenly citizens are so earthly minded! But Christ has the power to change me from a self-centred, failing Christian into a Spirit-filled, Christ-centred, victorious believer.
Think of your POSSESSIONS. “Everything I have is YOURS…” Look up Romans 8:17; Colossians 2:9-10. Possess your possessions!

THE PEARL OF GREAT VALUE

(Matthew 13:45-46)

The seven parables of Matthew 13 are designed to show the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven, i.e. the secrets of heaven’s rule over the earth while the King Himself is rejected. Read Matthew 13:45-46. Who is the “merchant”, and what is the “pearl of great value”, for which he sold “everything he had”?

The popular interpretation is as follows:-

(1) The Pearl of great value is the Lord Jesus Christ and His salvation.

(2) The Man who sells all his possessions to obtain the Pearl of great value is the sinner seeking and finding salvation.

But beautiful as this interpretation is, surely it is not the correct one, because it is contrary to the whole plan of redemption:-

(1) To suggest that the Merchant represents the sinner is to suggest that the sinner seeks salvation. This is not the teaching of scripture. It is always the Lord who takes the initiative and who seeks men (Genesis 3:9; Luke 19:10), and compare John 6:44.

(2) To say that the Pearl of great value is Christ and the salvation that is in Him, is to suggest that salvation is something that can be purchased. But we do not gain salvation by anything that we can pay, or offer, or do (Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5).

It is true, of course, that Christ is a Pearl of very great value, but this is not the teaching of the parable.

What is the true interpretation of this parable?

(1) The “Merchant” is Christ.

(2) The “Peal of great value” is the Church, the Bride of Christ.

(3) The price paid for the Pearl was His own life. Look up Acts 20:28; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Ephesians 1:14; 5:25; 1 Peter 1:18-19.

Notice how beautifully the Pearl represents the Church which Christ loved, and for which He gave Himself.

The Pearl represents the Church in its character. The pearl is a unique gem, in that jewels such as the diamond, emerald, topaz, are all inorganic compounds – that is, no life is involved in their formation. But in the case of the pearl, life is involved. It is composed simply of carbonate of lime, and in its chemical analysis it is exactly like that of common chalk. The remarkable thing is that every now and then some life principle within the chalk stimulates the chalk and produces a pearl. Now all this is very suggestive. The Pearl is like the Church in that it is a living organism. It is not a dead thing like a diamond or an emerald; the Church is not a lifeless organisation constructed by men, but a living organism, and every member of it shares the true life of the Church, composed of born-again men and women – those who have received new life through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and through their union with Him (John 15:5; 1 John 5:11-12).
The Pearl represents the Church in the great cost of its purchase. How is the pearl formed? Scientists say that it is the result of suffering on the part of the little creature inside the oyster or clam. An irritation is set up inside the shell which is caused by the admission of a tiny grain of sand. This makes the oyster bleed, and the life-supporting fluid is drawn out. Thus the creature literally gives its life for the formation of the pearl. What a wonderful picture it is of the way the Church is formed – so perfectly described in Isaiah 53 verses 5 and 10. At Calvary the Lord Jesus shed His blood to purchase the Pearl of great value. His Church, and the grain of sand that caused His suffering, was nothing less than our sin. Look up Isaiah 53:6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24.
The Pearl represents the Church in the process of its polishing. When the pearl is first discovered it appears to be of very little value, but when it is polished an amazing transformation takes place! It is only after it passes through the skilful hands of a polisher that it reaches its full value. Here is the explanation of the suffering, the trials, and the testings that God’s people have to endure. They are all part of the Lord’s loving polishing process! Look up Ephesians 5:25-27, and compare Hebrews 12:11. It is a wonderful thing to be polished by Him, held in His safe hands!
The Pearl represents the Church in the message it carries. Today a pearl is used simply as a piece of jewellery, but in ancient days it was used as an emblem of healing, comfort and joy. In fact it was looked upon as a kind of charm to drive away sorrow and gloom. We do not believe in lucky charms, but we do believe that the Church, our Lord’s Pearl of great value, has a healing ministry in the world. There are plenty of people who despise the Church, forgetting that it is largely due to the presence of the Church in the world that we have hospitals, homes for the elderly, and ten thousand other helpful and comforting agencies. Have you thought what our land would be like without the Church, and its ministry and its message?
The Pearl represents the Church in its value to its owner. A pearl is worn to enhance the beauty of its wearer. It is impossible to explain it, or even to understand it – but through all eternity the Church will magnify the Lord Jesus Christ and will be to Him a jewel of matchless glory and splendour!

Very soon now He will come and take the Church to Himself (John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17), and ultimately He will display her to a wondering world (Ephesians 2:7)! Read Revelation 21:9-27.

THE WORKERS IN THE VINEYARD

(: Matthew 20:1-16)

The parables of the Ten Minas (Luke 19:11-28), the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) and the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16), were all related by the Lord to emphasise three aspects of Christian service. It is the third of these parables that we will study, and notice in verse 1 that the Landowner is our Lord Himself, and the Workers He sent into His vineyard represent all who have been saved (Matthew 1:21), chosen (John 16:16), and commissioned by Him (Matthew 9:38). There are seven fundamental lessons relating to our service.

The Lord’s vineyard is very large in its proportions.

Because it is large, many workers are needed. See how many times the Landowner went out to appoint workers – verses 1, 3, 5, 6. How vast the field of service is which the Lord calls us into! The world is our parish (John 3:16; Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8); and His business extends right around the whole of it. There is a great need for God’s people today to get a worldwide missionary vision because we can be very local and parochial in our concept of the Lord’s work. But it is an encouragement for any Christian worker to be reminded that he or she is working in a part of the Lord’s vast vineyard. What a privilege and what a responsibility to be a worker!

Workers are urgently needed in the Lord’s vineyard.

It was so in the parable; it is so today. Look up Matthew 9:37; John 4:35. When we think of its size, how few workers there are!

The need for labourers is great in the continent of Europe. In our churches and Sunday schools, the need for born again, soul-winning workers is very great. In many ways it constitutes the most needy mission field in the world today. Millions live and die in Europe without a true knowledge of the love of God and of the way of salvation.
In other continents the need is vast – where the darkness of heathenism, superstition and ignorance abound.

Today there is a manpower shortage in the Kingdom of Heaven! Every Christian, everywhere, should be fully engaged in active service for the Lord in these desperately needy days – either by prayer (Matthew 9:38), or by preaching (Acts 5:42) – or by both (Acts 6:4).

All kinds of workers are needed by the Lord in His vineyard.

Because the field is so great, the variety of workers needed is also great. This fact leaves us all without excuse, because there is some valuable job of work we can all do.

For example, the Lord needs:

(1) preachers who are used by their Spirit-filled preaching.

(2) Christian authors and teachers who use the printed word.

(3) people of prayer ‘behind the scenes’.

(4) workers who visit and use their practical skills (Acts 10:38).

(5) stewards of the Lord’s money, seeking to extend His work.

To all of us the Lord says – Revelation 3:8!

The need for workers is urgent because the period of work is short.

In this parable the period for service was twelve hours. Look up John 4:35, and compare John 9:4. We also have a day in which to work for the Lord – look up 2 Corinthians 6:2 – the Day of Grace. Notice the workers were called at different times:-

(1) Some early in the morning (verse 1) – the Apostles?

(2) Others at the third hour (verse 3) – the first and second century Christians? (3) Still others at the sixth hour (verse 5) – the Reformers?

(4) Still others at the eleventh hour (verse 6) – twenty-first century witnesses?

We are workers of the eleventh hour! All the signs of the times – religious, political and Jewish – tell us that it is almost the Midnight hour. Doors of opportunity are closing in many parts of the world – look up 1 Corinthians 7:29.

The sphere of work is indicated by divine appointment.

Each worker is personally called and directed where and how to work. None are self-appointed. Note in verses 4 and 7 that He sent them out. Compare Acts 8:29; 9:11; 10:19; 13:1-4; Isaiah 6:1-8. When the Landowner went out at the eleventh hour and asked, “Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?” (verse 6), they replied, “Because no-one has hired us” (verse 7). It was then that the Landowner said, “You also go…” (verse 7). There was a sense in which the workers were right in standing and waiting. How could they be otherwise until the Landowner had commissioned them to work? How can we work for the Lord until He has directed us?

There are some great dangers that face workers in the Lord’s vineyard.

Consider the following:-

(1) Idleness (verse 6). What a temptation to be slack, careless and half-hearted in the Lord’s work. Look up Galatians 6:9.

(2) Jealousy (verse 10) – the Devil’s master-stroke among the Lord’s workers!

(3) Criticism (verse 15) – criticism of the Lord and of His dealings.

(4) Murmurings (verse 11). How often we grumble! How discontented we are (Hebrews 13:5)!

(5) Discouragement. This is also suggested in the parable.

Our service will be rewarded on the basis of quality, and not quantity.

The Lord requires faithfulness and not necessarily (as judged by human standards) success. Look up Psalm 126:6; Matthew 25:21; 1 Corinthians 4:2.

THE GOOD SAMARITAN

(Luke 10:25-37)

In this parable of the Good Samaritan we have an illustration of man’s need and of God’s way of salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ:

Verse 30 – “a man….” gives a description of the sinner before Christ has found him….going down….from the place of blessing to the place of a curse….robbed, wounded, stripped….half dead! – a picture of unregenerate human nature!
Verses 31-32 – the priest and Levite teach us that the Law of Moses and ordinances (represented by the priest and Levite) cannot save us.
Verses 33-35 – the Samaritan brings before us a word-picture of the Lord Jesus and His work to save and redeem lost humanity. See the whole story of Galatians 4:4; Matthew 9:36; John 15:16; Luke 4:18; Ephesians 2:6; John 10:28; Philippians 4:19 – told in verses 33-35!

Notice in this parable an illustration of how we should engage in soul-winning:

Verse 30 describes the many around us who need to be saved; they are perishing (John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 1:18).
Verses 31-32 describe the attitude of many Christians to those who need to be saved – indifference.
Verses 33-35 describe the way we are to engage in this work. What teaching!

But the Lord’s application of the parable is in verse 37: “Go and do likewise”. In other words, we as Christians must act like the Good Samaritan – not in order to be saved but because we are saved. Having been saved by the grace of God we are to “go and do likewise”, that is, to show mercy!

Why should we, as Christians, show mercy?

Because it is an act of humanity to do so. The world is a great brotherhood of human souls, and there is a doctrine of the brotherhood of man taught in God’s Word (Acts 17:26,28). It is human instinct to act, not as the priest and Levite, but very much like the Samaritan, and if the ‘natural’ man shows mercy to fellow men, how much more should we as Christians! Are we to be less considerate of the poor and needy than people of the world? God forbid!
Because our profession demands it. We profess to be Christians, followers of Christ, who went about doing good (Acts 10:38), bringing relief to the afflicted, comfort to the dying and healing the broken-hearted (Luke 4:18). Of what value is our profession if we are not like Him?
Because our own experience demands it. Think what mercy has been shown to us! We were in the awful pit of sin when He found us; He lifted us up and saved us, making us His own (Psalm 40:1-3). Surely His love should constrain us to go and show mercy to the lost (2 Corinthians 5:14).

When should we, as Christians, show mercy?

When we know of the need. The sin of the priest and Levite was in the fact that they saw and knew about the sad plight of the man, and did not act.
When, in God’s providence, such needs cross our paths. In verse 31 we read the word “happened” (or “by chance” AV), but there is no such thing as chance in the lives of God’s children. If a poor fellow like this Jew crosses our path and we find him half-dead by the road, that is not chance; it is the providence of God, and such opportunities are given to us to show mercy.
When it is in our power to do something (Proverbs 3:27-28). There are times when we are not able to give help – there may be a financial need and we cannot help to meet it (look up Galatians 6:10); but of course the priest and Levite had the opportunity. They could have ministered, but failed to show mercy. Let us be careful that we do not fail in this way.

How are we, as Christians, to show mercy?

The attitude and action of the Good Samaritan will help us to see:-

We are to do so irrespective of who they are. The man by the roadside was a Jew, and consequently the Samaritan might have said, ‘Oh, he’s a Jew and I’m a Samaritan. I can’t help him!’ (John 4:9). But he did not say this. He did not allow the barrier of race or place to stand between himself and that poor, needy, half-dead Jew. Look up Galatians 6:10 again, and notice the words “all people”. God make us large-hearted, generous-hearted Christians!
We are to do so without expecting any return. The Good Samaritan knew of the Jew’s poverty, but that made no difference. He was just as ready, in fact more ready, because of this fact to minister to him. If our motive is pure, anonymity is very commendable!
We are to do so with true sympathy and compassion. Look at verses 33-35, and compare Matthew 9:36. How we need this compassion! – this consciousness of other people’s needs that moves us to go…and see…and bind up…and pour in…and bring…and take care…and repay!
We are to do so by practical, sacrificial and social help. Have another look at verses 34 and 35. There is one phrase that surely must grip us. We read of the bandages, the oil to soothe, the wine to cleanse, but after all these ministries had been performed, we read that the Good Samaritan “took care of him” – there is our definition of what it really means to show mercy.

Surely we must “go and do likewise”. May God make us Good Samaritans!

CHAPTER 4

THE WISE AND THE FOOLISH VIRGINS

(Matthew 25:1-13)

There are many interpretations of this parable, which is one of those relating to Jesus’ Second Coming. Some have made its teaching apply only to a future dispensation; our best course will be to emphasise the simple and direct lessons which lie on the surface of this story. Verse 13 is the key-verse, and the ten virgins represent the visible professing Church which is in the world today. Here is a picture of Christendom, consisting of two classes of people – possessors and professors. The five wise virgins who have oil in their lamps represent the real Christians (oil being a type of the Holy Spirit); the five foolish virgins represent those who are merely professing Christians, who are only outwardly so and do not possess the Holy Spirit, never having been born again. These two classes are in the Church today. The lamps speak of testimony, of profession, and there are many people today who profess that they know God, but who deny Him in their works because they are mere professors (Titus 1:16); they have a form of godliness but deny its power (2 Timothy 3:5).

It is the presence of the Holy Spirit in the heart that constitutes a person a real Christian. How do we stand in regard to this? Look up Romans 8:9.

According to the parable, the wise and the foolish virgins, the possessing Christians and the professing Christians, will be together in Christendom until the Lord comes. Now, of course, we believe in the certainty and the imminence of the Second Coming – not only because this parable teaches this great fact, but because of the testimony of the whole Bible that the Lord will come again in person (John 14:3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Hebrews 9:24-28). What will His coming mean to the wise virgins? – and what will His coming mean to the foolish virgins?

What His coming will mean for the real Christian.

Immediate entry into the presence of the Lord (verse 10): “The virgins who were ready went in…” Some people are afraid of the Lord’s return, but there is no need to be fearful, for the moment He comes will mark the time of our release from all earth’s limitations; at once we shall be “away from the body and at home with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8); “with Christ, which is better by far” (Philippians 1:23); “in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye” the Bride will be united with the Bridegroom (1 Corinthians 15:52). Notice, there is no mention of Purgatory. If we die before He comes we shall be the first to be raised at His coming (1 Thessalonians 4:16); if we are alive, we shall be caught up to be with Him for evermore – hallelujah! 1 Thessalonians 4:17 speaks of this glorious hope!
The beginning of a new and intimate fellowship with the Lord (verse 10). Notice the words “…with him…” Now He is with us. Look up Psalm 23:4; Isaiah 43:2; Matthew 28:20; 2 Timothy 4:17; Hebrews 13:5. But when He comes, in a moment we shall be with Him. Look up Philippians 1:23, and compare 1 Thessalonians 4:17, noticing the words “…with the Lord for ever…”. How comforting this is! Now look up John 17:24.
There will be immense joy (verse 10) – “The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet.” Surely this speaks of great joy! Look up and compare Psalm 16:11; Zephaniah 3:17; Revelation 19:7-9. What a wonderful marriage supper that will be for those who have been redeemed by the precious blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19). Will you be present?
We shall be eternally secure with Christ (verse 10). “The door was shut” speaks not only of exclusion but of inclusion, of security for all those who are inside. When Noah and his family entered the ark “the Lord shut him in” (Genesis 7:16). Why? To shut out the ungodly? Not primarily; it was to shut in the godly. Thank God we are secure in Christ now (Colossians 3:3), but when the Lord comes we shall be secure with Christ (Luke 23:43).

What His coming will mean for the professing Christian.

What will be the position of those who appear to be Christians, and may even belong to a church, but are not born again?

They will be shut out from the presence of the Lord (verse 10). Look up Matthew 24:37-39. This is very solemn, but it is the constant testimony of scripture that there will be a time of terrible separation.
It will also mean separation from the wise virgins. The five wise virgins went in, the five foolish virgins were shut out, and when the Lord comes, loved ones and friends will be separated; parents and children who are living together now will be separated then; husbands and wives, employers and employees… What a time of separation! Look up Matthew 24:40-44.
This separation from the Lord and from the saved will be final and eternal. There is no hint here or anywhere in the scriptures of a second chance of salvation for the person who has deliberately and persistently refused God’s offer of mercy in the gospel. Why should there be a second chance? Look up Genesis 18:25 (last part).
It will be a time of bitter remorse (verse 11). How solemn it is when you remember that those pictured here as ‘outside’ are not atheists, agnostics, or grossly wicked people, but church members, religious, respectable, good-living people! Will you be outside, knocking and asking for admission?
It will mean being unrecognised by Christ (verses 11-12). That is what Hell is! – because there can be no greater Hell than to live through eternity without the Lord Jesus Christ, without His presence, His provision and His recognition. Will you be ready when the Lord comes? Read verse 13 again.

THE WEDDING BANQUET

(Matthew 22:1-14)

This parable is packed with vital teaching, and it would be helpful to read it through several times before starting a detailed study of its many lessons. Consider the following suggested interpretation:-

The king (verse 2) is God the Father.
The son (verse 2) is our Lord Jesus Christ.
The servants (verse 3) who were sent are the Prophets, John the Baptist and the Apostles.
The invited ones who refused to come (verse 3) are the Jews, who would not recognise Christ as their Messiah.
The other servants (verse 4) are the Apostles who went out after Pentecost. Compare Acts 3:12-26.
The banquet is God’s provision, in the death of His Son, for hungry, perishing souls.
The city that was burned (verse 7) is Jerusalem, which was destroyed by Titus in AD 70.
The wedding banquet which is ready (verses 8 and 10) is the calling out and completion of the Church.
The command to go to the street corners (verse 9) is the universal invitation of the Gospel.
The king coming in to see the guests (verse 11) is the Second Coming of Christ.
The man who was not wearing wedding clothes, who was speechless (verses 11-12), is the unbeliever, the professing
The solemn words of the king (verse 13) describe the fearful condition and destiny of those who reject the Saviour.

Notice the following important lessons that emerge from this parable:-

The provision God has made for us is loving and adequate.

It is hard to get men and women to believe that the Gospel is good news; most think it is bad news. In this parable, however, we learn that God has made a marriage (verse 2), that He has planned a wedding (verse 3), and that He has prepared a wonderful banquet (verse 4)! Surely all this speaks of a most wonderful provision that is now ready; and because a marriage and a banquet are times of rejoicing, we know that the Gospel is not bad news but good and joyful. It is because the Devil has blinded men’s eyes (2 Corinthians 4:4) that they feel to accept God’s offer of provision would impose an intolerable burden! Look up John 3:16; Romans 5:8; compare Matthew 11:28.

The invitation that God sends out is often repeated and is insistent.

Because He loves men and women so much, He does not invite them once, or even twice, but frequently, persistently. In this parable we read that He sent out His servants to “tell” them (verse 3); and when they did not respond, he sent more servants to “tell” (verse 4); when this invitation still met with a refusal, He commissioned still others to go out and invite His guests (verses 9-10). How many times He calls, and how patient He is with those He loves and wants! He calls through the preacher, through circumstances, through His Word and through His Spirit (Hebrews 3:7; compare Revelation 22:17)! Be sure to notice the solemn warning in Genesis 6:3.

The attitude that men and women adopt towards God’s invitation is very ungrateful and unreasonable.

We read that those invited to enjoy the king’s provision “refused” (verse 3); they “paid no attention” (verse 5); they “seized his servants, mistreated them and killed them” (verse 6). This shows the hardness of the human heart, the deceitfulness of sin, the folly of unregenerate man! This is exactly how men and women treat the Gospel invitation, and the person who gives it, today! What more could God have done than to sacrifice His Son, who died willingly on the Cross to bear away the sin of the world (John 1:29)? – yet the attitude of men and women is ungrateful and unreasonable. Look up John 5:40.

The folly shown by men and women when they think God will accept them on the ground of their good character.

We read of a man who accepted the king’s invitation but he refused to wear the wedding garment provided by the king. (It was the custom in the East for the host to provide each of the guests with a garment). The man had been offered one but had refused it, presumably because he thought he was smart enough! The wedding garment speaks to us of the righteousness of God which is offered to us in Christ Jesus, and which is upon all who believe (Romans 3:22). “All our righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6), but when we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our own Saviour, then God imputes His righteousness to us (Romans 4:6), reckoning Christ’s righteousness as ours (1 Corinthians 1:30; Philippians 3:9). It is folly for anyone to try to establish his own righteousness; the only way to be accepted by God is to submit to His righteousness (Romans 10:3-4) – to His way, the only way of being saved.

The punishment that those who reject God’s invitation incur is a just and a terrible punishment.

Here again we are faced with the solemn fact of judgment (verses 7 and 13). It was ‘just’ for the king to punish the murderers described in verse 6, and He solemnly warns all who deliberately and finally reject His love and mercy, and His provision of salvation in Christ, that they too will be punished (verse 13), banished from His presence (Revelation 20:13-15). Look up Genesis 18:25.

Have you responded to God’s invitation in the Gospel (Matthew 11:28)? – and are you trusting in the Person and the finished work of Christ?

THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS

(Luke 16:19-31)

This concluding study is very solemn. It is about a rich, self-indulgent man, and a poor man who was in need. Both men died – one went to heaven and the other to hell. Do you wonder that this parable is unpopular? Some people say this is not one of our Lord’s parables at all – it is the story of two men whom our Lord knew. That may be so, but to say it is a parable in no way lessens the certainty and solemnity of the Lord’s teaching. If it is figurative, figures speak of facts, and we may be certain that Jesus, who was the most tender of men, would never utter any statement or use any figure of speech, or metaphor, or illustration that would needlessly hurt the feelings of His hearers; it is also certain that He never indulged in talk that was merely fictitious or imaginary.

Here, then, we have a photograph of the other side of the grave, and it is significant that this inspired picture refutes seven popular errors concerning death and eternal issues:-

The first error: that we can know nothing certain about life after death.

But we can! – for we have God’s Word for it. In this portion of scripture the Son of God Himself tells us about life and death and heaven and hell. Of course, if we reject the inspiration of the Bible we are left without any authoritative word about the future destiny of mankind. Our loved ones die, and we will die – in dread and uncertainty! Let us beware of the blasphemous suggestion that in this parable the Lord was merely expressing the ideas and opinions that were current at the time – that He, the Son of God, was accommodating Himself to the popular views of His day, though they were untrue! Look up John 8:26 and 28. If we cannot rely upon this parable spoken by the Lord, we cannot rely upon any of His statements.

The second error: that death ends all.

So some would have us believe, when they say, “There is nothing beyond the grave.” But quite apart from God’s revelation which, of course, puts the lie to this idea, it is most unreasonable and hard to believe that death ends all. Human personality is wonderful. The mind, memory, the genius of man – does God mean that all these will be lost for ever at death? We can be quite certain that there is continuity of existence beyond the grave – Jesus said so! Read Luke 16:19-20 again. The man of verse 19, and the man of verse 20 were still the same men after they had died; their bodies had been buried, but they were still alive – very much so! Look up Hebrews 9:27, and notice “after that”! When you die, your soul will leave your body and immediately be in heaven or hell.

The third error: that when we die we simply go to sleep.

Read verse 22 – then verses 23-26. Does it look as though these two men were asleep? One minute after you die you will be awake – either in heaven or hell – yes, awake! Of course, your body will “sleep” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). After death, the rich man saw, felt, cried, pleaded, heard and remembered (verses 23-25) – he was awake alright! And Lazarus was “comforted” (verse 25) – so he was awake!

The fourth error: that there is no such place as Hell.

How many like to think that hell is a myth, a figment of the imagination – what wishful thinking! The interesting thing is that many who are unwilling to believe in Hell do believe in Heaven! How illogical that is! They stand or fall together, and as the Lord Jesus spoke about both destinies, they will both stand, whatever men may wish or think to the contrary. He spoke of Hell as a place of torment, of pain and of memory. Read verses 24, 25, 28, and compare Matthew 13:42; 23:33; 24:51; 25:30; 25:46, and be warned before it is too late!

The fifth error: that there is a second chance of salvation after death.

Read verse 26 “a great chasm…fixed…cannot…nor can anyone…” So there is permanence of destiny beyond the grave. Look up John 8:21 Why should there be a second chance for those who have heard the gospel in this life (2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:7)?

The sixth error: that there is no recognition beyond the grave.

Will we recognise and be reunited with our saved loved ones after death? Look at verse 23. The rich man recognised Abraham (though he had never seen him), and Lazarus. The redeemed will recognise each other in heaven, just as Peter, James and John recognised Moses and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36). Look up 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – where would the encouragement and comfort be if we are not to recognise our loved ones? Paul tells us he looked forward to seeing his converts in heaven – 2 Corinthians 1:14; 1 Thessalonians 2:19.

The seventh error: that the unbelievers would believe if they saw signs and wonders.

How concerned the rich man was for the salvation of his brothers (verses 27-28)! Such concern is good, but useless after death. Read verses 29-31. The fact is that God has given men a demonstration of His love in the gift of His Son (John 3:16); He has died for us (Isaiah 53:6), has risen from the dead (Luke 24:34). What more can He do? Will you be persuaded now? Hebrews 12:25.

NOTE: It would appear that Hell (or HADES, verse 23, place of departed spirits) was, until the ascension of Christ, in two divisions - the abodes respectively of the saved and of the lost. When Christ died, rose again and ascended, a change took place (Ephesians 4:8-10). Compare 2 Corinthians 12:1-4. The saved now go to be “with Christ” at death (2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23); the unsaved await the Judgment at the Great White Throne (Revelation 20:11-15).

THE PATHWAY TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY

(James 1:1-4,12)

It is generally accepted that the writer of this letter was James, a brother of the Lord Jesus, known to the early Church as James the Just. He, with others in his family, were opponents of Christ, as we learn from Mark 3:21 and John 7:1-10. His conversion came about after the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:7). Later he believed, and became bishop, or leader, of the Jerusalem church. His letter was written to the whole church, for the reference to “the twelve tribes” in verse 1 is a symbolic description. This letter is therefore for us today!

James opens his letter with the theme of spiritual maturity (verse 4), where we read that God’s purpose for His children is “that (they) may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”. Surely we all want to become spiritually mature. We do not want to remain immature with all the marks of spiritual infancy about us; look up Matthew 5:48, where the word ‘perfect’ = ‘mature’. What, then, is the process by which we may reach this goal? What is the pathway to maturity? The answer is in James 1:1-4, and in verse 12.

We must begin by entering God’s family by placing our faith in Christ as Saviour and Lord.

Notice the word “brothers” in verse 2. This implies a new and wonderful relationship. It means being a child of God and a member of His family. No-one can grow up into Christ and become mature who has not first been born into His family. There must be birth before growth; so before 2 Peter 3:18 can take place there must be the experience of John 1:11-14.

We must recognise our family relationships and responsibilities.

James addressed his letter to “my brothers” (verse 2). Not only was James himself a child of God, but he wrote to other children of God who were, of course, his brothers and sisters in God’s family. See this truth emphasised in Ephesians 3:14-15. All Christians, everywhere, are my brothers and sisters. What a privilege this is! – but what a responsibility it places upon us also! To become spiritually mature we must recognise our family relationships and enjoy fellowship with those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ.

We must seek the grace of humility.

The opening words of verse 1 read – “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ”. He could have said: ‘James, brother of our Lord…’; or ‘James, Bishop of Jerusalem…’; but having emphasised our Lord’s deity (note the words “of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ”) he chose to introduce himself as “a servant”. What humility! It is submission God-ward, (James 4:7 and 10); and man-ward (Ephesians 4:2 and Philippians 2:3-8). How we need to obey the injunction in 1 Peter 5:5-6!

We must take our place as a slave.

When James calls himself “a servant of God” he means that he is His slave. This implies absolute obedience. A slave knows no law but the word of his master. He has no rights of his own. His master literally owns him (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 1 Peter 1:18-19). To be a slave also implies utter loyalty – pledged to his master. His own profit, and even his comforts, do not matter. What a privilege to be a slave of the Lord Jesus!

We must expect our faith to be tested, and must submit to the Lord in all His dealings with us.

James takes this up in verses 2, 3, 4 and 12. What do we learn here about trials and testings, about God’s dealings with us with a view to our ultimate spiritual maturity?

We must expect trials and even welcome them (verse 2). This does not mean that we shall like them, but we shall rejoice because of the purpose behind them. Look up and compare Matthew 5:10-12; John 16:33; Philippians 1:29; Hebrews 12:6-11; 1 Peter 4:12.
Trials often come suddenly (verse 2, KJV) – we “fall” into them. How true to life this is!
Trials and testings are varied (verse 2) – there are different kinds of testings. They may be physical, they may touch our affections, they may have to do with the loss of possessions. Think of Job, or Paul, or those we read about in Hebrews 11. What varied trials God’s servants experienced!
When trials come it is our faith which is tested (verse 3). Faith is the principle of our new life. We are believers – “The righteous will live by faith” – compare Luke 22:31-33 with 1 Peter 1:7, and read the whole of Hebrews 11 to see how faith is tested!
We have great assurance, because we know God is working out His purpose for us and in us with a view to our maturity. Notice in verse 3 the words “know” and “develops”, and compare Romans 8:28; Ephesians 2:10; Philippians 1:6.
The testing may be long and arduous. Verse 4 means, ‘Let the process go on until the work is complete’. The length of the process is seen in the first part of verse 4; the result of the process is in the last part of the verse.
When faith’s testing is completed we shall be blessed (verse 12).

The lesson that we must learn from this study is that in all God’s dealings with us we are not to view the process only (James 1:2-3), but we are to see the finished product (James 1:4). Look up Jude 24.

TRUE WISDOM AND HOW TO GET IT

(James 1:5-8)

James 1:5-8 might be described as a classic passage. It is a well-known section of scripture and contains basic Christian teaching. The subject is clearly defined and may be entitled, ‘Heavenly wisdom: what it is and how to get it’. A careful look at these verses will prompt several important and practical questions, each of which is clearly answered in the passage.

WHAT IS IT?

We must understand what James means when he says, “If any of you lacks wisdom…” What is this wisdom? Is this a promise for guidance in times of perplexity? Is this a promise for special insight and illumination when this is needed? Is the reference to intellectual knowledge or learning alone? These are most certainly included in the wisdom which we read about here, but this is a very practical thing and it has to do with the way a Christian lives. So it is not only intellectual: it is experimental. It is the gaining of spiritual knowledge so that this knowledge may be worked out in gracious and godly living. Dr Alexander Maclaren says that this wisdom is ‘the sum of practical religion’. It is possible to acquire knowledge but to lack wisdom, to acquire vast knowledge but, in fact, to be a fool. This heavenly wisdom is spiritual discernment which is made experimental in its application to, and in the experience of, daily living. In James 5:13-18 we are told what the truly wise man will be like.

The wise man will certainly have knowledge (verse 13); this wisdom is intellectual; but not only that, it is experimental and experiential as well; it will be shown in the way he lives.
If we have this wisdom we shall be humble (verse 13). See Matthew 11:29.
If we have this wisdom our lives will not be characterised by envy, selfish ambition, and every evil practice (verses 14-16). These are not the marks of heavenly wisdom, for they are of the Devil.
If we have this wisdom we shall live lives that are pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy, impartial and sincere.

This wisdom is not head knowledge alone, but it is also a spiritual and moral quality that operates in the life.

DO WE NEED IT?

In other words, do we lack this wisdom? Yes, we do! No-one is able to say that he is always pure, always peace-loving, always gentle, always approachable, always merciful, always kind in his actions, always impartial, always utterly sincere. We like to think that we exhibit these graces and virtues, but if we are honest we have to admit that we lack them to a great extent. Do we therefore need this wisdom? We do! We need to know how God wants us to live, and we need to have the ability to put that knowledge into action.

CAN WE HAVE IT?

Yes, we can! Notice that James says, “If any of you…” The reference is to every Christian, or as verse 2 reminds us, to “my brothers”, to those who are children in the family of God – look up John 1:11-13. Not only can we know that God wants us to be pure, holy and peaceable, but we can actually be like this. It is God’s will that we should be so. We can have the heavenly wisdom, we can translate into our daily lives the truth we learn from God’s word, so that our lives demonstrate the truth – look up Titus 2:10.

HOW CAN WE GET IT?

James 1:5 says, “…he should ask God”. This wisdom is a gift which is obtained by prayer. Notice that James does not say, ‘If any man lacks wisdom let him go to the university, or let him sit down and think’! What is spoken of here is wisdom which is offered to us and which we need so much – a gift which is not achieved but which is given by God. Therefore to secure it we must ask God, since the gift we want and need is heavenly wisdom, and only God can give this. When we ask Him for wisdom, we must look to Him in dependence and in recognition of who He is and what He is able and willing to do for us. It means asking not once, but frequently and continually until, as James says in James 1:4, we become “mature and complete, not lacking anything”. We must go on asking; the more we ask the more God will give, and the more we shall receive.

HOW IS IT GIVEN?

James 1:5 says “generously”, which means that God does not give grudgingly. He does not give “out of” His riches but “according to” His riches – look up Philippians 4:19. When we ask for wisdom He does not find fault with us or scold us. This is how God delights to give!

HOW IS IT RECEIVED?

It is through the prayer of faith (verses 6-8) – asking in faith and receiving the answer by faith. When we ask we must have absolute confidence that God will hear and answer, because faith is an essential requisite to answered prayer (Hebrews 11:6); compare Matthew 21:22 and Mark 11:24.

IS THIS A CERTAIN PROMISE?

Indeed it is! – James 1:5 assures us that the prayer for wisdom will certainly be answered – look up the last part of James 4:2! Look up Colossians 3:16.

ACCEPTING THE IMPLANTED WORD

(James 1:18-25)

It is significant that in his letter James includes a section about the nature of God’s Word, and the way in which believers are to use it each day. It is impossible to live a life that is well-pleasing to the Lord unless we know how to use our Bible properly. Carefully study James 1:18-25 and notice the following:-

Three ways in which James describes the Word of God

“The word of truth” (verse 18). The definite article is here: the Bible is not ‘a’ word but ‘the’ word of truth, which tells us that it stands alone; it is unique (Psalm 119:160), and compare Psalm 119:43; Ephesians 1:13; Colossians 1:5; 2 Timothy 2:15. The word of truth is the whole of God’s verbal communication which has been given to man and which is now contained in the inspired canon of Scripture.
“The word planted in you” (verse 21). Notice the definite article again. There is only one Word of God, and here we are told that it is implanted in our hearts; this means that it is living and life-giving (1 Peter 1:23).
“The perfect law that gives freedom” (verse 25). Notice the definite article again! – and the three important words: (1) PERFECT. This tells us that the author is perfect, that the Word itself is perfectly suited to our needs and cannot be improved upon, and that as we receive its truth we are ‘perfected’ – made mature. (2) LAW. This means that the Word of truth is to rule our life, for it contains God’s commandments, which are always for our good (Deuteronomy 10:12-13). (3) FREEDOM. When we obey the Lord’s Word we are freed from sin, self and Satan – free to serve God.

The Word of God is the instrument the Holy Spirit uses for new birth

We get this in verse 18, which in one version reads, “Through declaring the truth to us, He gave us birth” - compare John 3:5. “Born of water” means “the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5). The Holy Spirit uses the Word of God to effect the miracle of the new birth. See 1 Peter 1:23.

When we read or hear the Word of God we are to receive its truth with humility and apply its teaching to our lives

We read this in verses 21-22: “humbly accept the word planted in you…Do not merely listen to the word…Do what it says”. This is the burden of James’ message! How easy it is to hear God’s Word, to agree with it, but not to act it out! Jesus pronounced a benediction on those who would not only hear but who would keep His Word (Luke 11:28). Compare Hebrews 4:2. And the reason we are to obey it is given in verse 21. It is able to bring us into the experience of God’s salvation, not only from sin’s penalty but also from sin’s power – look up and compare 2 Timothy 3:15-17.

We are to come to the Word of God and use it as a mirror to show us our true state; then we are to adjust our lives accordingly

In verses 23-25 James uses an interesting simile. It is of a man looking at his face in a mirror; he sees that it is dirty, but he does nothing about it. He might just as well have not looked into the mirror. What should we do then? How should we use God’s Word as a mirror? We should peer into it, as we see from the meaning of the words in verses 23-25. We should look at ourselves in the mirror of the Word, not casually, but with a view to seeing our true state – because we can only see our face with the help of a mirror!

When the mirror reveals sin and failure we must deal with it at once

This is the force of what James says in verse 21: “Therefore, get rid of…” In other words, when you see the dirt on your face, clean it off, deal with it, use plenty of soap and water! – compare 2 Corinthians 7:1 and, of course, 1 John 1:9. For an illustration of how and when to do this turn to Ephesians 4:22-32 and Colossians 3:8-10; compare Hebrews 12:1 and 1 Peter 2:1-3.

If we fail to do this we deceive ourselves

Verse 22 tells us this. We may imagine ourselves to be all right spiritually, but in fact we cannot be so unless we test our lives frequently by the Word of God. How easy it is to become careless and slack spiritually, to backslide and then to follow at a distance! – look up Amos 6:1; Proverbs 14:14; Luke 22:54.

To hear the Word of God, to receive it with humility, to use it as a mirror, and to adjust our lives accordingly will result in blessing

Notice verse 25: “he will be blessed in what he does”. Yet so often we do not believe it! We think God’s commands are severe – look up 1 John 5:3; but they are not: they are always for our good – look up Psalm 19:11. In Ezekiel 3:1-3 we see how sweet to the taste God’s Word is, and in the whole of Psalm 119 David has much to say about the blessing that results from loving and obeying God’s Word.

In conclusion, our study is summed up in Colossians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Titus 2:10; 2 Peter 1:4-8. What does God long for His people to do, and what does He desire of us? The answer is found in Deuteronomy 5:29 – “Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children for ever!” God wants us to love Him supremely (John 14:15; John 21:15); to obey Him implicitly (John 2:5; Acts 9:6; Proverbs 3:5-6). Then His blessing is assured!

RELIGION: THE TRUE AND THE FALSE

(James 1:26-27)

The word ‘religion’ is used in one good sense in the New Testament – here in one of our key-verses. Nowhere in the Bible are we exhorted to preach religion, but always to preach Christ. Look up and compare Acts 8:5 and 8:35. Pure religion is the outworking of that which God first of all works in us. Everyone is religious, because all are born with a religious instinct, but to say that we are religious is not necessarily to say anything good about ourselves. Dictators have been known for their diabolical wickedness who have at the same time been religious; there are Satan-worshippers who practice vile methods of worship; and many people are engulfed in the blindness of dead, religious systems, which are totally false. Through a man’s religious instincts he may be degraded or elevated, for there are two kinds of religion – the true and the false; or, as James puts it, religion that is “worthless” (verse 26) or religion that is “pure and faultless” (verse 27). Let us study here the true and the false.

THREE MARKS OF FALSE RELIGION

False religion is hypocritical. Notice the force of the words “considers himself” in verse 26. Here is the mark of the hypocrite, and there were plenty of these in our Lord’s day (Matthew 6:5, 7, 8). A hypocrite is one who pretends to be something he is not. A hypocrite is one who tries to appear very pious and holy in the eyes of others, whereas he is just like other men – sinful, unregenerate, unchanged. His religion is an outward thing – look up the searching words of our Lord recorded in Matthew 15:8.
False religion is Self-deceiving. Verse 26 states that the man whose religion is false “deceives himself”. He does not deceive anyone else. Thousands of very religious people are self-deceived; they are regular in their attendance at church, but they know nothing of redemption through the blood of Christ (Ephesians 1:7). The god of this age has blinded them (2 Corinthians 4:4). Many are gripped by false religion and have been turned aside by false cults. Others are good church-going people who profess to be Christians but who do not possess Christ.
False religion is worthless (verse 26). It is empty, useless, of no value (2 Timothy 3:5). There are many professing Christians who are like waxwork figures; they have all the appearance of being the real thing, but their religion is outward. It is like a coat that they put on at certain times, to impress, but it can be taken off just as easily as it can be put on. It is not really a part of them. There is no salvation in this false religion (Acts 4:12); no reconciliation (Romans 5:10); no pardon (Acts 13:38); no comfort (Psalm 86:17); and no hope when death comes (Ephesians 2:12).

THREE MARKS OF TRUE RELIGION

John Bunyan said, “The soul of religion is the practic part”, by which he meant that if a man is a real Christian he will live like a real Christian. He will show by his practice that he has true religion (verse 27). The three marks of true religion are:-

A controlled tongue. In verse 26 the writer contrasts the true and the false. Follow his argument: he says that one of the first evidences that we have true religion, that we really are born again and know the Lord as our Saviour, is that our tongues are under control. If we do not keep them on a tight rein, where is the evidence that we really do belong to the Lord, that our hearts have been cleansed and that our soul has been saved? Remember that if you are a gossip, if you constantly use unkind, careless, hurtful words, your religion is false and worthless (Psalm 141:3). Only by being born again and by allowing the Holy Spirit to control your tongue can you show forth the mark of true religion.
A compassionate heart. The word “look after” in verse 27 presents us with the idea of ministry – compare Luke 1:78; Acts 10:38. How does our religion show itself to the world? (Matthew 9:36). How does it show itself to other Christians? (Ephesians 4:32). Notice this carefully: James is not saying that we are saved by good works; he is saying that if we are saved, if we have true religion, we shall do good works (Ephesians 2:8-10). If we are true believers in our Lord Jesus Christ we shall have hearts that are filled with compassion: compassion which will be expressed in good works. For some other examples of this in James’ letter look up James 2:1-9; 2:14-17; 3:17-18; 4:11; 5:9; 5:16; 5:19-20.
A consecrated life. The last part of verse 27 tells us this. God’s will for us is that we should be set apart from all sin, from self, from Satan, from all that is contrary to His purpose for our lives, and that we should be devoted entirely to Him. What does it mean “to keep oneself from being polluted by the world”? It means that everything we do has to be brought under this test: What does the Lord want me to do about this, and in this situation? What will glorify Him? What will help me to live a clean, wholesome, dedicated life? Read 2 Timothy 2:21.

What kind of religion is yours? What does God say about it? Is it false, or is it the true kind? As you conclude this study, look up Hebrews 4:13.

FAITH THAT DOESN’T WORK IS DEAD!

(James 2:14-26)

It is fruitless for us to say that we have faith if our faith is not demonstrated by good works. This is what James is saying in James 2:14-17, 20, 26. Our faith must work, otherwise we have no right to say that we have faith. Martin Luther was very concerned about the Letter of James, and even called it ‘an epistle of straw’. Undoubtedly one reason was that he felt it contained no exposition of the gospel, and seemed to contradict Paul by making out that salvation is not by faith but by works. At first sight James does seem to contradict Paul; for example, compare what Paul says in Romans 4:1-5 and what James says in James 2:21-24. How do we reconcile these, when one says we are saved and justified by faith apart from works, and the other says that “a person is justified by what he does”? There is no contradiction here, as we consider this:

Faith in Christ as personal Saviour is essential to salvation.

Why faith in Christ? Because He is the only Saviour (Isaiah 45:22; John 10:9; John 14:6; Acts 4:12). He alone has accomplished redemption for us. If we ask the question in Acts 16:30, what is the answer? Look at Acts 16:31! The way of salvation is to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour. In the New Testament there are at least 150 passages which condition salvation on believing, and faith (the one word being the exact synonym of the other) – for a few examples look up John 3:16; Acts 13:38-39; Romans 1:16; Romans 3:26; Romans 5:1; Romans 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8.

Personal faith in Christ is the only condition on which God saves; salvation is totally apart from human works.

We are saved by faith alone plus nothing! We are not saved by faith plus our best efforts, our prayers, our law-keeping. We cannot be saved as Cain thought he could, but as Abel was (Genesis 4:1-7), and compare Jude 11. We are not saved by doing and saying what the Pharisee did and said, but we are saved when we come before the Lord as the publican came (Luke 18:9-14). We are saved by grace through faith, apart from works (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5).

Saving faith begins when we hear the message of the gospel and believe that Christ is both able and willing to save us.

Romans 10:17 is an important verse; we hear the message of the gospel (for example, John 3:16), and we believe it; we read 1 Timothy 1:15, and we believe it; we read Romans 10:13, and believe that Christ is the only Saviour and that He will save all who come to Him and trust Him to save them. So far, however, faith (believing) is only a matter of the head, an intellectual assent. Will this belief save us? No! We can believe all that, and remain unsaved. For example:

The woman who touched (Mark 5:25-34). When she came to the Lord Jesus she believed He was able to heal her, but this believing did not bring healing.
Faith in the bank. You may have money which you want to keep safe and a friend tells you about the ‘Absolutely Safe Bank’. You hear and believe what he says, but you can still keep the money at home, although you believe in the bank.
Faith in the dentist. You have an aching tooth and you are told about a good dentist; he is not only a good technician but he is willing to help you. You believe all this, but still have the bad tooth and the pain!

Saving faith is our act of putting faith in Christ, believing He is able and willing to save us.

Saving faith is trust, it is commitment, it is heart-faith (Romans 10:9-10). Think again of the illustrations given above:

The woman who touched. She not only believed in the Lord’s ability and willingness to heal, but she put out her hand and touched Him and received his healing.
It is not enough to believe in the bank. We must take our money there and trust the bank to look after it for us.
It is not enough to hear about and believe in the dentist. We must place ourselves in his hands and trust him to do the job well.

This leads to the important thing James is saying: that faith without works is dead, and that it is fruitless to say that we have faith if we have no works.

Faith is not real and saving faith unless it results in good works, which are the evidence of true faith.

James 2:14 is the important verse. Underline the word “claims”. What is the good of claiming we have faith if there are no evidences that we do have it? Surely his works will prove it! His life will show it! How does faith work?

Take Abraham (Genesis 22:1-19) – anxious to have a son, and God promised one. He believed God’s promise, giving him the righteousness he needed for salvation (Genesis 15:1-6; Romans 4:1-5). God promised that through Isaac, Abraham would have more children than the sand on the beach and the stars of heaven. God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac on the altar. He had faith in God, so he was not afraid to obey Him (Hebrews 11:17-19). Abraham proved his faith by his works.
Take Rahab (Joshua 2, 6:17-27). Although a notorious sinner (Hebrews 11:31), she was a woman of faith. She lived in Jericho and believed reports she had heard about God (Joshua 2:10-11). Then she received and protected the two spies, proving her faith in God. Her faith was proved by her works.
For three New Testament examples of faith being demonstrated by works, read about Zacchaeus (Luke 19:8); Lydia (Acts 16:14-15); and the Jailer (Acts 16:30-34).

Are you trusting Christ as your personal Saviour? Does your faith work?

THE RIGHT AND WRONG USE OF THE TONGUE

(James 3:1-12)

It was the late Canon Guy King who used to say that the subject expounded in James 3:1-12 was in everybody’s mouth! What a vital subject this is, and how much we need to take note of the teaching of God’s Word about the right and the wrong use of the tongue! The fact is that our tongues may be used helpfully, for the glory of God and for the blessing of others; or they may be misused, bringing sorrow and tears to others, and in the process hindering the testimony of the Lord. The fact that throughout his letter James has much to say about this matter suggests that those he had in mind were guilty of committing what Matthew Henry calls ‘tongue sins’. So James shows us very pointedly that the tongue of a Christian is the indicator of that Christian's spiritual health. Our speech reveals what kind of a Christian we are. In order to emphasise this fact James uses three pairs of illustrations to show the power of the tongue.

The tongue has power to direct. In verses 3 and 4 we have the illustration of the bit and the rudder. Our words can direct others into the right or the wrong path – look up Proverbs 18:21. Beware of the idle word, the questionable story, the half-truth, the deliberate lie. All these could change the course of a life and lead it to destruction. On the other hand, the right word may direct someone out of sin and into salvation. How we need the Lord to control our tongue!
The tongue has power to destroy. The illustration in verses 5-8 emphasises the fact that the tongue is a small member of the body, but it can cause great destruction. What the tongue says comes from the heart – look up Matthew 12:34-35. A tiny spark can set a whole forest on fire, and the tongue is like a small flame – look up Proverbs 16:27. An evil tongue can also spread poison. On the other hand, a spiritual tongue is medicine – look up Proverbs 12:18; it will heal and not hurt.
The tongue has power to delight. In verses 9-12 we have the illustration of the fountain, or spring; it is impossible for a spring to produce both fresh and salt water at the same time. In the same way, the tongue cannot speak blessing and cursing (Proverbs 18:4). A tree cannot bear two kinds of fruit (Proverbs 13:2; Proverbs 18:20-21).
THE WRONG USE OF THE TONGUE

Blaming God when tempted to do wrong (James 1:13-14). God never tempts us to sin; temptation arises when a man is lured away by his own lust.
Speaking hypocritically (James 1:26). It is easy to do this, and what a terrible statement about this very thing is found in Titus 1:16!
Expressing discrimination between rich and poor fellow-believers (James 2:1-4). Discrimination between people’s colour, background, race and status in life can be thoroughly un-Christian.
Speaking unsympathetically to those in need (James 2:15-16). With so much poverty in our world, we need to search our hearts.
Boasting and flattering, thus causing a destructive fire (James 3:5). Just one word can cause a family upset or division in a church; see James 3:14.
Grumbling against each other (James 4:12; 5:9). Moffatt renders Romans 14:12-13: “Each of us will have to answer for himself to God, so stop criticising one another!”
Swearing or blaspheming (James 5:12). Many non-Christians are careless with their words, even taking the Lord’s name in vain. How careful we must be as believers – 1 Peter 3:10.

THE RIGHT USE OF THE TONGUE

Now look at the following references in James to see how the Christian’s tongue should be used:-

To praise God (James 3:9), which in one translation reads, “We use our tongue to praise our Heavenly Father”. We should be doing this every day – read through Psalms 148, 149 and 150!
To pray to God:

(1) For wisdom (James 1:5-6).

(2) For help for those in trouble (James 5:13-16).

(3) For healing (James 5:14-15).

(4) For large requests (James 5:17-18).

(5) For backsliders to be restored (James 5:19-20).

To sing to the Lord (James 5:13). Turn to Psalm 51:14 and make the same resolution.
To witness for the Lord. This is not actually mentioned by James, but we must include it – look up Psalm 107:2; Acts 1:8.

We have seen that our tongues can be used in many bad ways and in a number of good ways. How can it be controlled? Only by the Holy Spirit. Have you ever asked the Holy Spirit to take control of your tongue? In Romans 6:13 we are exhorted to offer the parts of our body to God “as instruments of righteousness” – our hands, eyes, feet…. and our tongue. Have you ever given your tongue to the Lord for Him to control it? Do so now, and as you conclude this study here is:

A resolution to make – Psalm 17:3; Psalm 39:1.
A warning to take note of – Matthew 12:34-37.
A prayer to pray – Psalm 19:14; Psalm 141:3.

COMING NEAR TO GOD: PRECEPT AND PROMISE

(James 4:8-12)

In James 4:8 there is a precept, something we are to do – “Come near to God”; there is also a promise, something God will do when we play our part – “and he will come near to you.” In one sense we are always near to Him (Psalm 139:7-10; Acts 17:27-28); in another sense, because He is holy and we by nature are sinful, we are estranged from Him (Ephesians 4:18). The amazing thing is that God invites, urges and pleads with us to come to Him, a fact that is reiterated throughout the Bible, and this is what James is saying. But how can sinful men and women come near to a holy God? There are three requirements:-

We must come in faith (Hebrews 11:6).
We must come through Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Hebrews 10:19).
We must come sincerely (Hebrews 10:22).

The important thing is that we do come near, for then God guarantees that He will meet with us and bless us. How should we come?

Come near to God just as you are, and He will receive you.

The scripture for that is John 6:37, and it means exactly what it says! – that if anyone, anywhere, at any time, comes to the Lord Jesus, He will receive him. No-one who comes is ever turned away. There are no ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ about this. What an ever-open door this is where the troubled soul can go in! Will you come near with your need, and come to the Lord just as you are? If you will do this He guarantees to receive you.

Come near to God confessing your sin, and He will forgive you.

The scripture for that is 1 John 1:9. If you are conscious of sin, of guilt, of some specific way in which you have grieved the Lord, you can be forgiven and cleansed now, if you will act upon this gracious promise. The confession must be made to God; it must be specific and not general. The moment you make your confession the Lord promises to forgive and to cleanse you. What an encouragement this is for anyone who is conscious of sin! Will you come near and make your confession, and receive the Lord’s pardon and cleansing? What a relief it is to know that because we have confessed our sin to the Lord and renounced it, He has freely pardoned us and promised to forget our sins completely (Proverbs 28:13).

Come near to God with your trouble, and He will help you.

The scripture for that is Psalm 50:15. What is your trouble? In this promise the Lord guarantees to help all who are burdened, and He promises to deliver them and to bring out of their trial and difficulty something that will be for His glory. See an illustration of this in 1 Samuel 1:9-19. Do not despair; turn to the Lord Himself and act upon this gracious promise. He makes the promise to you!

Come near to God with your problem, and He will undertake for you.

The scripture for that is Psalm 55:22. It really means: bring the matter to the Lord Himself: it is too big for you and you cannot solve it anyway. But He can! He is great enough and willing enough to do so. See an illustration of this in Isaiah 37:14-17, and verse 36. Perhaps you have asked others to give you help, but it has proved inadequate. Come near to the Lord and He will undertake for you. If you still feel that your problem is too great even for Him to solve, turn to Genesis 18:14 and compare Luke 1:37. Nothing is too hard for the Lord!

Come near to God acknowledging your weakness; He will strengthen you.

The scripture for that is Isaiah 40:28-31. Perhaps you have been greatly tempted, and as a result of the pressure you have succumbed. Notice the word in 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. How can you escape? By coming near to the Lord, confessing your own weakness, and recognising that He is “the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth…” and that “He gives strength to the weary…” Come near to Him in your weakness and wait upon Him.

Come near to God seeking guidance, and He will lead you.

The scripture for that is Proverbs 3:5-6. There is nothing we need more frequently than guidance. Should I move house? Should I buy that house? Should I get married? Should I emigrate? Should I invest that money? Should I retire now or later on? Should I change my job? Should I…? Remember this: God is always more eager to guide us than we are to be guided, so come near to Him now. For an illustration of His guidance read the whole of Genesis 24. Then turn to Acts 16, and notice how definitely the Holy Spirit led Paul and his colleagues – particularly notice verses 6, 7, 9 and 10. If you still need to be assured of God’s willingness to guide you, look up the following wonderful promises – Psalm 25:9; Psalm 32:8; Psalm 37:23-24; Psalm 78:72.

Come near to the Lord now, at this very moment.

Perhaps you have never come to Him in a definite way and trusted Him to save you and make you His own – look up and read Matthew 11:28-30; Acts 16:30-31; Romans 10:13. Or, do you need to come in one of the ways mentioned above? The important thing is really to come to Him – “Come near to God and he will come near to you.”

Will you do it, not only now, but in every time of need?

UNLIMITED STORES OF GRACE

(James 4:6-17)

Five wonderful words in James 4:6 provide the key to this study – “He gives us more grace”. Here we learn the glorious truth that there is an adequate supply of grace to enable each of us to live a life of victory day by day. At every point of need “He gives us more grace”. Notice three things here:-

The giver is God. What a great giver He is! – look up 1 Timothy 6:17.
What He gives is grace; this is the unmerited favour that God shows to those who are guilty and undeserving. It is God’s blessing given to His people. There are four kinds of grace: (1) Saving grace (Ephesians 2:8-10); (2) Sanctifying grace (2 Corinthians 9:8); (3) Sustaining grace (2 Corinthians 12:8-9); and (4) Serving grace (Hebrews 12:28).
This grace is always available and adequate, and it is ours for the taking. When we receive His grace He says, ‘Come back again when you need some more!’ All this giving does not impoverish Him, for He has unlimited stores of grace!

In James 4:16-17 there is a pattern of victorious living, an outline of the kind of life the Lord wants us to live. It is impossible to live this life in our own strength, but “He gives us more grace” – for all His commands are His enablings (Exodus 18:23). How can we experience each day that the Lord’s grace is sufficient?

Get down off your pedestal (verses 6, 9, 10)

This is the first requirement if we are to please God. Read Matthew 5:4 with verse 9. By nature we are extremely proud, but a proud Christian is a paradox; therefore God waits to give us His grace of humility. It is hard for proud people to be humble but God calls us, as followers of Jesus, to have a humble spirit (Matthew 11:29); and see how Paul went down, down, down, from 1 Corinthians 15:9 to Ephesians 3:8 to 1 Timothy 1:15! See what we read in 1 Peter 5:5-6, and if you feel you cannot get down low at His feet, remember that “He gives us more grace”!

Put yourself in God’s hands (verse 7)

This is the meaning of the first part of the verse, or the words in Romans 6:13, “offer yourselves to God” – and compare Romans 12:1-2. God’s will for you is “good, pleasing and perfect”. His desire is that you should submit to Him completely and trust Him to work out His will in your life, asking the question in Acts 9:6, and obeying the injunction in John 2:5. If you say you cannot do this, the answer is that you can, for “He gives us more grace”!

Stand up to the Devil (verse 7)

Satan is always on the warpath (1 Peter 5:8-9) and he tries to make us doubt God and question His love and His purpose for our lives. In suffering Satan tries to embitter us, to stop us doing God’s will, to make us lazy, half-hearted and undisciplined, and he tries to discourage us. These are some of his devices (2 Corinthians 2:11). We must resist, and say to him what Jesus said in Matthew 16:23 – then when he runs from us we can prove “God gives us more grace”!

Clean up your life inwardly and outwardly (verse 8)

Compare 2 Corinthians 7:1. Now that we are Christians there are things that we must “put to death” (Colossians 3:5-9). One translation of James 4:8 is: “Realise that you have sinned, and get your hands clean again; realise that you have been disloyal, and get your heart made clean once more”; and if you say, ‘I cannot do this’, the answer is that you can, for “God gives us more grace”!

Stop pulling one another to pieces (verses 11-12)

This critical faculty, which we all possess, must be kept under the Holy Spirit’s control, otherwise we shall do damage to others and to God’s work; and in the process we shall become hard, intolerant, unloving, unlovable and unbearable! We must not criticise or slander someone when he is not there to defend himself. We must not judge others; it is God’s prerogative alone. But we need to judge ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:31-32); Paul says, “Judge nothing before the appointed time” (1 Corinthians 4:5), and compare Matthew 7:1-5. Are you capable of doing all that? – certainly not in your own strength, but “He gives us more grace”.

Live with eternity in view (verses 13-16)

These people were leaving eternity out of their reckoning and making plans as if they had control of their destiny (Luke 12:16-21). It is easy to do that! – yet see what Proverbs 27:1 says. But can we really live in moment by moment dependence on the Lord, living with eternity in view and not all the time being bogged down by the things of time? We can, for “He gives us more grace”.

Do now what you know to be right

God has been speaking through this Bible study. Will you do His will? Will you obey Him and do what you know to be right (verse 17)? You say, ‘How can I do this? – “He gives us more grace”!

We have seen that God not only calls us to live a life of victory, but He supplies the needed grace. We must take what He gives and victory will be ours. How can we do this? Well, ask for it, receive it, and keep asking (Hebrews 4:16).

WAITING FOR THE LORD’S COMING

(Scrip: James 5:7-12)

It is a significant fact that all the New Testament writers make reference to the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. For example: in the four Gospels, in the recorded promises, parables and predictions of the Lord; in the Book of Acts, and in all Paul’s letters with the exception of Philemon, which is a private note; James, as we shall see in this study; also Peter, John in his first letter (2 and 3 are private) and in the Revelation; and so does Jude. Now what does James say about the coming again of Christ?

The Lord Jesus is most certainly coming back again.

This is clearly stated in James 5:7-8. How emphatic these statements are! – yet there are many people who do not live in the light of this fact. In some cases it is due to ignorance; in other cases it is due to wrong teaching by blind leaders of the blind (Matthew 15:14). Many Christians “are in error because (you) do not know the Scriptures” (Matthew 22:29), and they are deprived of what the Bible calls “the blessed hope” (Titus 2:13). They know nothing about the incentive that comes when we live each day in the light of the fact of Christ’s return (Matthew 24:44; Matthew 25:13; Luke 21:25-28).

His coming will be sudden, unannounced, and it is imminent.

The whole atmosphere of these verses suggests the suddenness of our Lord’s return. For example, the closing words of verse 9 are very solemn. We also know that the Lord will come suddenly because of the warning about this from Jesus Himself (read again Matthew 24:44; Matthew 25:13). His coming will also be unannounced (Matthew 24:43; Matthew 24:36; Acts 1:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-4). All these emphasise the fact that He will come suddenly. We also learn that His coming is imminent – that is, it is likely to take place soon and at any moment. James says that it is near (verse 8). Some have said that the early Christians were mistaken in thinking that the Lord’s coming was near at hand. Not at all! It was always the Lord’s purpose that His people should live in the daily, moment-by-moment expectation of His return. Besides, look up 2 Peter 3:8, and see 2 Peter 3:9 for an explanation of the ‘delay’ in His return – and compare Hebrews 10:35-37.

The imminence of His coming should have a profound influence on our lives.

In nearly every reference to the second coming in Scripture we see this truth: for example, 1 John 3:2-3. It is dangerously possible to be caught up with the theories (how? when? where?) and not to let the truth regulate our lives. James tells us that if we believe that Jesus is coming again, and that it will be sudden, at any moment, we shall do three things:

Watch our thoughts (verse 9); the word “grumble” refers to an inward attitude of heart and mind and to human relationships. It speaks about a censorious, critical, complaining spirit. One version renders it: ‘Don’t make complaints against one another.’ All this begins in the heart and the mind, but if Jesus is coming soon – look up 1 John 2:28!
Watch our words (verse 12). We are to watch the word of criticism, jealousy, bitterness, pride. Why are we to do this? Because at any moment the Lord Jesus may return, so be careful – look up 1 John 2:28 again.
Watch our actions. Thoughts are quickly translated into words, and words into actions. We must be sure that our behaviour is pleasing to Him in case we would be ashamed and shrink away from Him at His return; look up 1 John 2:28 again.

The One who is coming is our Saviour, but He is also Judge.

James brings this out in the second part of verse 9. You must be clear about this: (1) He is the judge of the unsaved. This is very solemn – look up Revelation 20:10-15. (2) He is also judge of the saved. Christians will never stand before the Great White Throne for judgment, because for them that judgment is passed, as we learn from John 5:24 and Romans 8:1; but “we will all stand before God’s judgment seat” – what for? To be rewarded or to suffer the loss of rewards (Romans 14:10; 1 Corinthians 3:9-15). The fact that the one who is coming is our judge should make us live very carefully, as we learn from 2 Peter 3:11; 1 Peter 1:15; 1 John 4:17.

It will help us to live in the light of His coming if we study the biblical record of God’s dealings with His people.

If we want to see what God is doing in His sovereignty and gain some idea of the outworking of His eternal plan and purpose, we must read the Bible in order to get some idea of His merciful and loving dealings in the lives of His own people. This is what James, in effect, is saying in verses 10-11: “take the prophets” (referring to Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Hosea, and so on) – then turn back and read about Job and of God’s dealings with him, “and what the Lord finally brought about” (verse 11), that is, the fulfilment of God’s purpose in the life of His servant. To study the biblical record, and to trace God’s dealings with His people, will give us two things:

Patience, as we learn from verses 7, 8, 10-11.

CHAPER 5

HEALING IN ANSWER TO PRAYER

(James 5:13-16)

The Bible has much to say about physical healing, but in this study we will confine our thoughts to James 5:13-16. Notice three things about this passage:

It applies to us today just as much as it did to those to whom it was written. This letter was written “to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations” (1:1); but see what Galatians 3:28 says.
Much wrong teaching has been based upon these verses. The scriptures have frequently been distorted (2 Peter 3:16); some have taught that it is always God’s will to heal and that no Christian ever needs to suffer.
These few brief verses answer many of the questions that we want answered in relation to healing. For example: Does God heal today? Does He always heal? Does healing depend on our faith? Should we anoint the sick? Is it wrong to go to the doctor when we are ill? What should we do?

Every time there is sickness we should make it an occasion for prayer.

James 5:13 says, “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray.” Just as when we are happy we want to turn to the Lord in praise, so if we are sick we should turn to the Lord in prayer; it means we should relate our sickness to the Lord and place ourselves afresh, by faith, in His hands. The greatest blessing that can come in sickness is not physical relief but spiritual blessing. Matthew Henry rightly says, ‘One of the designs of affliction is to lead us to the throne of grace.’

After praying privately, the prayer fellowship of others may be called for.

James 5:14 says, “Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him…” This method is commended, but not commanded. What a great thing it is in a time of sickness to be able to send for Christian friends, so that they can offer prayer for us! We may be too sick to pray for ourselves, and there is great strength in united prayer (Matthew 18:19; compare Acts 12:5). But look at verse 14 again: in every time of sickness we are invited to send for the elders of the church that they may pray over us, anointing us with oil – but not necessarily praying that He will heal! What, then, should be the attitude of the elders and of the sick person?

The eye of faith must look to the Lord alone for His will to be revealed.

Verse 14 concludes, “…and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.” Oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, and every spiritual blessing we receive is conveyed to us by the Holy Spirit. There is no healing virtue in the oil itself, so why use oil? Anointing with oil is not necessary for healing, but it is an act by which those who are praying express their faith in God outwardly and visibly and show that they are trusting Him to perfect His will in the life of the one who is sick.

If it is God’s will to heal in answer to prayer, a definite and specific gift of faith for the healing of the body will be given to those who pray.

Verse 15 states that “the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well”. But, “the prayer of faith” cannot always be offered; it cannot be offered at will, because it is not always God’s will to heal the sick. If it is God’s will, those who are praying will be enabled by the Holy Spirit to pray “the prayer of faith”. Job prayed for deliverance (James 5:11); Paul prayed for the removal of his physical infirmity – but read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, and look up and compare Philippians 2:25-30; 1 Timothy 5:23; 2 Timothy 4:20. Sometimes it is not God’s will to heal in answer to prayer (2 Kings 13:14). By faith some are killed (Acts 12:2), and by faith some are delivered (Acts 12:8-11); by faith some “escaped the edge of the sword” (Hebrews 11:34), and by faith others were “sawn in two” (Hebrews 11:37). It is very often God’s will to heal, but it is not always His will to heal. When it is His will, the gift of faith will be imparted to those who pray. “The prayer of faith”, then, is a certain kind of prayer. To pray for a sick person, or to claim healing, does not necessarily bring healing.

The use of natural means should not be ruled out.

There are three ways in which healing can come: (1) It may come supernaturally, by a direct touch from the Lord Himself, who will suddenly or gradually raise up the sick person; (2) It may come by natural means, through rest, sleep, food, change of air; or (3) God may use some medical or surgical means. It is certainly not wrong to consult a doctor. On the contrary, it is wise and right to do so (2 Chronicles 16:12). Asa did not sin because he consulted a doctor, but he sinned because he left the Lord out of his reckoning. It is not for the patient to decide whether he is to be healed in this way or that way, but the choice lies with the Great Physician, the Lord, who never makes a mistake and who is perfecting His will in the lives of His children.

Although sickness is not necessarily the result of sin, it may be so.

Verses 15-16 are very challenging. Sometimes sickness comes as a result of sin and of undisciplined living – look up 1 Corinthians 11:29-32; Proverbs 28:13.

There is no limit to what the Lord can and may do in answer to fervent, persistent and believing prayer.

James 5:16 encourages us to believe this. God does hear and answer prayer, and God does heal the sick when it is in line with His gracious will; but His will is best, and if it is His will for us to suffer, then to be healed would be to have His second best – look up 1 Peter 4:19.

THE SECRET OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER

(James 5:16-18)

The Bible is filled with promises, encouragements and illustrations which emphasise the secret of effective prayer. It is said that James had knees that were worn down by his constant habit of kneeling. If so, we have the testimony of a man who had proved the secret of effective prayer in his life and practised what he preached. But notice the statement he makes in verse 16: “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” – in other words, it gets results.

There is a kind of prayer which is not always, or very rarely, effective.

The reason this prayer is ineffective and useless is because God does not hear it – look up and compare Job 27:8-9; Job 35:13; Isaiah 1:15-16; Isaiah 59:2; Micah 3:4; Zechariah 7:11-13; Luke 18:11-12. How solemn! But notice:

Prayer with a wrong motive cannot be effective. We learn this from James 4:3, and how often we pray selfishly! Only prayer which is offered for the glory of God secures His ear and His answer.
If we know of sin in our lives, prayer cannot be effective. We learn this from Psalm 66:18. How easy it is to harbour sin! We need to pray the prayers that David prayed – Psalm 139:23-24; Psalm 51:3-4, and act on 1 John 1:9.
An unforgiving spirit will hinder prayer. We learn this from Mark 11:25-26. Is this a possible reason why our prayers for the conversion of our loved ones are not being answered?
An unwillingness to be reconciled to someone prevents prayer from being effective. We learn this from Matthew 5:23-24. It is of little use to pray, worship, go to meetings, or engage in God’s service and to expect His blessing, if we are unwilling first to be reconciled to another believer.
A wrong relationship is a barrier in prayer. We learn this from 1 Peter 3:7. Perhaps our relationship with members of our own family is not all that it should be. According to this verse, that can be a hindrance to our prayers.

There is, however, a kind of prayer which is always effective.

James tells us that it is possible to pray and to succeed in gaining God’s gracious answer to our prayers. This is prayer that is “powerful and effective”, and James goes on to give us an illustration of what prayer can do (verses 17-18). If we want to discover the secret of effective prayer and of all that God is willing to do in answer to the prayers of His people, we need to look at Elijah, a man just like us, who proved the great power of prayer in an amazing way. As we look at Elijah, we should ask the question, ‘What can prayer do?’

Through prayer God’s servants are empowered to speak His word. We learn this from 1 Kings 17:1. Surely it was because Elijah knew what it was to stand before the Lord that he was able to go and stand before the wicked Ahab. It was prayer in private which made him powerful in public! When we turn to the New Testament we find the same truth clearly taught – Acts 4:29, 31-32. Effective prayer releases the power of the Holy Spirit, and by the power of the Holy Spirit God’s servants are made bold and courageous to speak for the Lord.
Through prayer God’s servants gain ample provision for all their needs. We see in 1 Kings 17 two great illustrations of this. First, God provided free accommodation for Elijah by the brook Kerith and fed him every day by means of ravens (1 Kings 17:2-6). Then, when the brook dried up (verse 7), God provided free accommodation at Zarephath, and he had all that he needed (1 Kings 17:8-16); compare Psalm 34:10 and Philippians 4:19.
Through prayer God’s servants experience His miracle-working power. We learn this from 1 Kings 17:17-24. When we act in accordance with His will, God does truly great and mighty things in answer to the prayers of His people – look up Jeremiah 33:3, and compare Mark 11:22-24.
Through prayer God’s servants can know victory over the Lord’s enemies. The whole of 1 Kings chapter 18 is worth very careful reading. How amazing! – the false prophets were put to shame and afterwards put to death, and the Lord’s name was vindicated. Prayer today can drive back the powers of darkness and overcome God’s enemies – the forces of materialism, the flood of obscenity, the spread of false religions – look up Isaiah 59:19.
Through prayer God’s servants are kept during times of testing and failure. 1 Kings 19 is also a great chapter. It tells us how tenderly the Lord dealt with His weary and failing servant and how graciously He restored and re-commissioned him. All this came about through prayer.

In conclusion, notice the secret of effective prayer (James 5:16).

Prayer that is effective must be fervent and earnest – it must really come from the heart! Look up Genesis 32:26; Isaiah 66:8; Hosea 12:4; Luke 11:8.
Prayer that is effective is that which is worked in by the Holy Spirit – look up and compare Romans 8:26; Philippians 2:13; Jude 20.
Prayer that is effective must be offered by a righteous man – that is, by a man who is made righteous through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ – look up Romans 4:5-8; and by a man who is righteous in all his ways before the Lord – look up Philippians 1:11.

GOING AFTER THE BACKSLIDER

(James 5:19-20)

We should link together the two concluding verses of the Letter of James (verses 19-20) and Galatians 6:1-2. Why? Because both James and Paul were writing about the restoration of a backslider. Two ministries were committed to Peter by the Lord: first, he was to catch men (Luke 5:10); but second, he was to feed the flock (John 21:17). These two ministries are committed to every Christian – the work of soul-saving and the work of soul-shepherding. All of us who belong to the Lord are to seek lost sinners, but we are to be ready also to restore our brothers and sisters when they wander away from Him. Cain once asked, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:8-10). As Christians we are just that; we are responsible for our brothers and sisters in Christ. If they fail, fall or backslide we are to be concerned for them and go out after them, to bring them back to the Lord. See how this truth unfolds in James 5:19-20.

Those who truly love and belong to the Lord are in danger of backsliding.

It is the easiest possible thing for any of us to backslide. James indicates this when he says, “If one of you should wander from the truth…” This refers to doctrinal error. He also refers to moral conduct when he uses the expression “the error of his way”. When we backslide we stray from the truth, we fail to apply the truth to our lives, and we do not obey the truth; this leads to moral lapse and failure in conduct, and no-one is immune from this danger. We need not backslide, but there is always the danger. Why? Because we have three great enemies who desire our downfall:

The world without. In Galatians 1:4 the world is described as “the present evil age”; we are exhorted to “not love the world” (1 John 2:15); and James 4:4-5 has something to say about this. Demas became worldly - look up 2 Timothy 4:10.
The flesh within. The old Adamic nature is within all of us, and often this ‘old man’ wants expression. Is victory possible? Yes, it is, but we are in constant danger of falling and failing (1 Corinthians 9:26-27). Think of Samson in the lap of Delilah (Judges 16:4-20); and David with Bathsheba – look up 2 Samuel 11:1-5.
The Devil around. He comes as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8); an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14); he accuses us (Revelation 12:10); he is out for our downfall (Luke 22:31-32); and think of Peter in this connection.

The Lord still loves His people when they fail, fall and backslide; they are still His, and He longs for their return to full fellowship.

He has promised never to let us go (John 10:28-29). Our sins grieve Him, but even these do not make Him cast us off (Hosea 14:1-4). We cannot be saved today and lost tomorrow. God does not love our sin and failure, but He still loves us, and that is why He led Paul and James to include these exhortations in their letters – Galatians 6:1-2; James 5:19-20.

When a believer backslides it is our responsibility to care for him and to seek his recovery.

This is the burden of James’ message. He is writing about the Christian being concerned for his brother. When a brother in Christ backslides we are not to abandon him, criticise him, talk about him, accuse him, condemn him, ostracise him – we are to go after him and seek to restore him, and in Galatians 6:1-2 we read of some of the qualifications required if we are to be successful in this.

The recovery of a backslider needs to be undertaken with love and humility, and by someone who is filled with the Holy Spirit.

Let us introduce Paul’s teaching in Galatians 6:1-2. See how the verses unfold:

We must be specially qualified to do this work. Paul says, “you who are spiritual…” – compare Galatians 5:25 and Ephesians 5:18. An unsurrendered, worldly Christian engaging in this work will be clumsy and careless and will do more harm than good.
We must be determined. Notice the words “restore him”; or as James 5:19-20 puts it, “bring him back”. We are not to cold-shoulder the backslider. Our reaction should be, How can I help him?
We must be humble. Notice the word “gently”; it is no good going to the backslider in a holier-than-thou attitude. When Jesus restored Peter it was with a tender look (Luke 22:61); with a loving word (Mark 16:7); and with a gracious question (John 21:15).
We must remember 1 Corinthians 10:12. Notice the words “be careful that you don’t fall” . Our attitude must be, ‘Brother, I am so sorry this has happened….It could have happened to me!’ Before entering upon this ministry of recovery we should read Matthew 7:1-5 and 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.
We must really share our brother’s need. This is what Galatians 6:2 means.

When a backslider has been restored, the resultant blessing is enormous.

James tells us in verse 20 that when someone has gone away from the Lord and is brought back, two things happen:-

Very many sins are hidden. That is, when sin is repented of, confessed and forsaken, it is at once covered, blotted out, forgiven and forgotten (Proverbs 28:13). Compare Psalm 32:1; Isaiah 44:22; Isaiah 43:25.
The restored one is saved from death. The ‘death’ referred to cannot mean spiritual death, for the Christian cannot die spiritually (John 5:24; John 11:26). The reference is to physical death. This is very solemn; it is spoken of in 1 Corinthians 11:30-32 and 1 John 5:16-17 - “There is a sin that leads to death” – but no-one needs to commit such a sin, and all sin sincerely confessed and forsaken is forgiven (1 John 1:9).

Let us be concerned, not only to win the lost, but to love, win back and care for the people of God when they wander.

GOING THROUGH THE BOOK OF ACTS

(Acts 1:1-3)

In many ways Acts is the most exciting book in the New Testament because it is full of movement and interest. These studies will be expository, devotional, practical and varied, and this is an introduction to the whole book:-

TITLE: The book is known as ‘The Acts of the Apostles’. This is correct, though it mostly tells us of the acts of two apostles: Peter, whose ministry was to the Jews and whose great word was ‘repent’; and Paul, whose ministry was to the Gentiles and whose great word was ‘believe’. However, this book does not record the acts of men but of the Risen Lord, who by the Holy Spirit filled and used men as His instruments. In Acts 1:1 Luke tells us that in his Gospel he recorded “all that Jesus began to do and to teach…” Compare Luke 1:1-4. For 33 years the Holy Spirit had indwelt, filled and worked through the human body of the Man Christ Jesus; then this same Man returned to heaven and the Holy Spirit came and filled His mystical body, the Church, and so the Lord continued to do His mighty works from heaven. A better title for this book is ‘The Acts of the Holy Spirit’ – and because of this the Book of Acts is an unfinished book; it records the continuing work of the Risen Lord from heaven.
AUTHOR: Luke wrote his Gospel and also the Book of Acts – compare Luke 1:1-4 and Acts 1:1-3. Both letters were written to Theophilus.
DATE: Written about AD 63 and covering approximately 33 years of history. Our Lord Jesus was on the earth for 33 years, and in Acts we have an example of what can be accomplished through one generation of believers.
KEY-VERSE AND KEY-WORD: It is Acts 1:8, and the word ‘witness’ is the key-word. In this one verse we have a bird’s-eye view of the whole book; we start by reading about the preaching of the gospel in Jerusalem, the ecclesiastical centre, and conclude with the preaching of the gospel in Rome, the centre of world power.

Why should we study this wonderful Book of Acts?

It is the record of actual history.

Be sure of this: it is authentic (2 Timothy 3:16); it is the first book ever written of church history; it is the history book of the Church, of which we are members; and it applies to this Church age and the dispensation of the Holy Spirit in which we are living – look up and compare Matthew 16:18 and Acts 2:41 – the building and the adding are still going on!

It is full of instruction for us as Christians.

It is our textbook (2 Timothy 2:15); we learn how to worship, walk, witness, win souls, pray, conquer, suffer, rejoice in trial, live for the Lord and how to die to Him. It tells us how the early Christians gave, worked together and acted in times of crisis! What an exciting record it is!

It contains a clear exposition of vital Christian doctrine.

Romans, of course, is the textbook of theology but in Acts we hear the gospel preached and see it working. We hear it in the sermons and speeches of Peter, Paul, Stephen, Philip, James and Ananias, and quickly learn what a Christian believes and how he is to present the gospel to others. All the vital doctrines are emphasised in this book, and it is significant to notice that the message, though preached by many different people, is always the same.

It contains many biographies.

Pick out the stories of individuals whom God saved, blessed and used: Stephen (Acts 6:5-7; 60); Dorcas (Acts 9:36-42); John Mark (Acts 13:1-13); Apollos (Acts 18:24-28). Make a list of these biographies, because you will have a valuable aid to further study.

It has a strong missionary emphasis.

The Book of Acts is the authorised missionary manual of the Church, dealing with the why, the how and the where of missionary work; it speaks of the evangelisation of cities (Acts 8:1-8), of individuals (Acts 8:26-39); it shows how men are called and equipped for missionary service; this book inspires, trains, instructs and equips missionaries – a great missionary book from start to finish (Acts 13:1-5)!

It describes many notable conversions.

This will inspire you – read of the conversions at Pentecost (Acts 2:36-42); of the Queen’s treasurer (Acts 8:26-39); of Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:1-17); of Cornelius (Acts 10:1-48); of Lydia (Acts 16:13-15); of the jailer (Acts 16:25-34); and of Crispus (Acts 18:8) – examples of what God is doing all over the world today through the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit, through the preaching of the gospel and in answer to the prayers of God’s people.

It is of great spiritual value.

To read the Book of Acts will send us to our knees. It will give us a deeper love for the Lord, fire us with new zeal, and stir us to be active in the Lord’s service. Read of the men who turned the world upside down and you will be turned upside down also (Acts 17:6). Read of what God can do with ordinary men and women when they are filled with the Holy Spirit – look up Acts 4:31 and 33.

The late Dr Campbell Morgan used to say that a study of this book will do two things for us. First, it will fill us with hope; we shall realise what a wonderful Lord we have, what a mighty person the Holy Spirit is, and what a powerful gospel has been entrusted to us. Second, it will fill us with shame; to read this book will humble us and send us to our knees and cause us to cry out, ‘Lord, do it again!’

WAITING FOR THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER

(Acts 1:4-5)

These verses record the final great command that the risen Lord gave to His first followers. He had commissioned them to preach the gospel (Matthew 28:19); but now, just before His ascension, He told them, “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised”, which He had often spoken about. We must understand clearly what He was referring to, and how the promise of the Father related not only to them but to us:-

WHAT WAS THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER?

It was the promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit, the third Person in the Godhead – one with the Father and the Son. Before Pentecost He was working in the world and in the lives of God’s people. In the Old Testament we have instances of His coming upon men to empower them for special service: Bezaleel (Exodus 31:3); Eldad and Medad (Numbers 11:26); Gideon (Judges 6:34); Samson (Judges 14:19). Thus far, however, He had not come to abide with all God’s people. The promise of the Father was the promise that the Holy Spirit would come at Pentecost to do a distinctive work in the lives of all Christians; it was a promise relating to this period of time in which we are living, the Dispensation of the Spirit, the Church Age.

It was given through the prophet Joel (Joel 2:28-32).
It was proclaimed by John the Baptist (John 1:29-34).
It was referred to by the Lord Himself (John 7:37-39; John 14:16-17; John 15:26; John 16:6-7 and 13-14; and Acts 1:8.
It was anticipated by the Lord after the Resurrection (John 20:22).
It was fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:4).

The promise of the Father, then, was the promise that at Pentecost the Holy Spirit would come in a special way to do a three-fold work in the lives of all God’s children. These three ministries of the Holy Spirit would only come into operation at and after Pentecost and throughout the whole of this dispensation. What are these ministries?

He would come to BAPTISE them all. John the Baptist said that Jesus would baptise His people with the Holy Spirit (John 1:33). Jesus told His people they would be “baptised with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 1:5). The doctrinal explanation of this baptism of the Spirit can be found in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13. At Pentecost, when the Spirit came and filled the 120, they were up until then isolated units, but He united them into the body of Christ. Pentecost marked the formation of the Church, the body of Christ. All our forefathers were baptised into Moses and in the sea once (1 Corinthians 10:1-4). That was never repeated. Similarly, the baptism of the Spirit was historical and collective, not to be repeated. By the baptism of the Spirit every Christian has been placed into the body of Christ.
He would come to LIVE WITHIN them all. Notice in John 14:16-17 the words of Jesus which pointed forward to their fulfilment in Acts 2:4, when the Holy Spirit, who had been with them, would from thereon be in them – “for he lives with you and will be in you.” The distinctive mark of a Christian is that he is indwelt by the Holy Spirit and it is true of every Christian from the moment of believing on Christ, as these references show: John 7:39; Romans 5:5; Romans 8:8-9; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:8.
He would come to EMPOWER them all. In other words, Luke 24:49 and Acts 1:8 were fulfilled in the experience of these first disciples in Acts 2:4! – and we only have to read through the Book of Acts to see how wonderfully these early Christians were empowered when the Holy Spirit clothed them.

WHY DID THEY HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE PROMISE?

They had to wait for God’s time, in accordance with Leviticus 23:15-17. No doubt the waiting time was a time of heart-searching and of earnest prayer (Luke 11:13) – but in God’s calendar Pentecost had to come fifty days after the resurrection of Christ. They had to wait, in fulfilment of the Lord’s promise.

DO WE HAVE TO WAIT?
We DO NOT have to wait for the Holy Spirit to baptise us into the body of Christ. What is spoken of in 1 Corinthians 12:13 has already taken place. This becomes a reality at the moment of conversion. Every believer is already baptised into the body of Christ. There is, therefore, no command in scripture to seek the baptism of the Spirit.
We DO or MAY have to wait for the Holy Spirit, who lives within us, to fill and possess us. He indwells us (1 Corinthians 6:19), and He waits to fill us (Ephesians 5:18); but He can only fill and possess us if we do not grieve Him (Ephesians 4:30), or quench Him (1 Thessalonians 5:19).
We DO have to wait for the Holy Spirit to empower us for special service. We do not wait for Him but on Him, in order that He may fill us with His power and make our service for Him effective (1 Corinthians 2:4).

We must rejoice that the promise of the Father has been fulfilled and that the Holy Spirit has been given without limit (John 3:34); that as believers we have been baptised into His body, the Church; and that we are members one of another. Let us give Him the right of way in our lives and be utterly dependent on Him to fill us with Himself and use us for His glory.

THE CHURCH’S MISSIONARY MANDATE

(Acts 1:8)

Acts 1:8, where we learn from the Lord Himself about His own plan for world evangelisation. How is the gospel to be spread today, and who are the people to do it? How are they to do it, and what are their resources for doing it? These and other questions can be answered in our study verse.

THE PEOPLE CHOSEN BY THE LORD

It is important and encouraging to notice that God does not choose angels or supermen, but ordinary men and women to be His witnesses; notice the pronouns in Acts 1:8: “You…you…you.” How often we come face to face with the principle made clear in 1 Corinthians 1:26-29! Most of His witnesses are ordinary people like ourselves, and this brings us to the important point – that God expects every Christian to be a witness; this means that God has, or should have, witnesses everywhere – in the home, in shops, offices, hospitals, factories – everywhere; wherever there is a Christian there should be a witness. It is clear then that the people whom God chooses to be His witnesses are all those whom He saved by His grace. Read through the Book of Acts and make a note of those whom God saved and then used as His witnesses. You are a Christian: are you a witnessing Christian?

THE PLAN ADOPTED BY THE LORD

What is the function of the witness? To witness means to give a testimony based on personal knowledge. A witness must tell, not what he thinks or supposes, but what he knows from personal experience. He must give first-hand, up-to-date evidence – look up and compare John 3:11; John 9:25; Acts 22:15. God’s plan, therefore, is that every one of us who loves Him and who belongs to Him should tell what we have seen and heard and what we know of Him and of His grace. Notice that our testimony is to centre upon the Person of Christ Himself – “You will be my witnesses…” We are not to witness to a denomination, a system or a creed, but to the Person of our Lord Himself. Notice also that witnessing is not to be only a matter of telling; primarily it is to be a matter of living. We certainly should use our lips in the service of our Lord Jesus Christ. But first our lives must witness for Christ. Notice that Acts 1:8 says, “You will be my witnesses…” What we are is more important than what we say, and if our lives are witnessing for Him then what we say will be effective and powerful. What an amazing plan – that the Lord has adopted us for the evangelisation of the world! All of us must go out into our ordinary sphere of life and live and speak for the Lord there.

THE PLACE INDICATED BY THE LORD

Where are God’s witnesses to go? We have already noticed that God wants them everywhere, but in Acts 1:8 a definite geographical setting is indicated – “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Compare Matthew 28:19. This inevitably means that some witnesses must leave their homes and go to other places, other lands, in order that they may obey the Lord’s commission to be His witnesses to people who have never heard of Him. Acts 1:8 is our authority for sending out missionaries and it is obligatory on all Christians in every age.

In the light of Acts 1:8, as His witnesses we should be willing to go anywhere for the Lord, whatever our age or circumstances.
In the light of Acts 1:8, young people should be especially challenged as to whether or not the Lord would have them to be His witnesses where the need is greatest. Even more mature Christians should face this challenge, especially if they have good health and strength to labour for the Lord.
In the light of Acts 1:8, all who would be His witnesses must begin in Jerusalem. That is, we must begin at home. We must live consistently for the Lord in the home, the office, the hospital, or wherever we are just now. Moving from our homeland will certainly not make us witnesses!

God’s great heart of love yearns over the whole world and His method for evangelising it is to send forth living witnesses – look up and study very carefully Romans 10:13-15.

THE POWER SUPPLIED BY THE LORD

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…” No-one can be an effective witness without the power of the Holy Spirit – look up and compare Luke 4:18 with Luke 24:49 and Acts 2:4. How was it that Peter and Paul were such vital witnesses? How does anyone, anywhere, witness effectively for the Lord? – look up and compare Zechariah 4:6 with Acts 1:8. The empowering of the Holy Spirit is given to enable us to obey the Lord’s command and to witness effectively for Him.

HOW LONG DOES THE LORD GIVE US?

How long have we left in which to evangelise the world? Until the Lord Jesus comes again – compare Acts 1:8 with verses 9-11 and John 9:4. All the signs of the times show us that His coming is surely very near. If you and I are to be effective, living witnesses we must be on the job at once; the matter is urgent, the time is short, the need is great, millions are lost, and the Lord Jesus says to each one of us – Acts 1:8. All our service must be filled with a real sense of urgency. We must hurry to preach the gospel – look up Acts 8:29-30; and we must be earnest in prayer – Acts 12:5.

CHPTER 6

“THIS SAME JESUS”: ASCENDING AND DESCENDING

(Acts 1:9-11)

It is important for us to remember that the Christian faith rests upon certain great historical facts. Christianity is different from other religions which are concerned with moral systems, philosophies and religious observances. The gospel is God’s good news of what He has done in history in the person of His Son and for the salvation of men. What are the great acts of God which the Christian faith rests on, and which are declared in the gospel? They concern the person and work of our Lord Jesus Christ. Notice in the opening verses of Acts five great facts: (1) His incarnation (inferred in verse 1); (2) His crucifixion (verse 3); (3) His resurrection (verse 3); (4) His ascension (verse 9); and the next great historical event – (5) His second coming (verses 10-11). We will consider and compare the fact and purpose of His ascension and the promise and purpose of His coming. We will link together His going up and His coming down, because both are brought before us in this section of scripture. Notice that three times we are told that Jesus was “taken up” – Acts 1:2, 9 and 22; but we are also told that the Lord is coming down again, for while in verses 9 and 10 we have the record of Jesus ascending, in verses 10 and 11 we have the promise of Jesus descending. Three truths are emphasised here about His ascension and His second coming.

He ascended personally: He will come again personally – “This same Jesus” (Acts 1:11). It is the same Lord Jesus who was born in Bethlehem, lived 33 years on the earth, was filled with compassion for all who were in trouble, died for our sins, rose for our justification and ascended – and who will come again!
He ascended bodily: He will come again bodily. His was a physical resurrection and a bodily ascension. He came from the grave a resurrected Man, with a ‘glorious body’ – compare Acts 1:3-4 and Philippians 3:21; and after forty days He ascended in the same body. His return will be a bodily return.
He ascended visibly: He will come again visibly. It was while they were looking that He was taken up (verse 9), and they saw Him return to heaven (verse 11). When He comes again He will be seen first by all His own people and then by everybody (1 John 3:2; Revelation 1:7; Zechariah 14:4).

These references assure us that, as the Lord ascended, so He will descend – personally, bodily and visibly.

“THIS SAME JESUS”: ASCENDING

Where is Jesus now? – look up Hebrews 1:1-3 and compare Ephesians 1:19-23. Why did He ascend and why is He in heaven now?

Because His earthly mission was completed and He must now begin His heavenly ministry from heaven. His earthly mission culminated in His death on the cross, where He made atonement for our sins. Having finished this work He “sat down” – look up Psalm 40:8; John 1:29; John 17:4; John 19:30; Hebrews 1:3. From 1 Timothy 2:5 we learn that He is in heaven as our Mediator – compare John 14:6; as our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16; Hebrews 8:1); as our Advocate (1 John 2:1-2); our Intercessor (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25), and compare Luke 22:31-32. He is building and working through His Church (Matthew 16:18; 1 Corinthians 12:13); and compare Acts 1:1 and Luke 19:12. In heaven He continues the work which He began on earth.
So that all His people everywhere might enjoy His continual presence. While He was here on earth He could only be in one place at one time, but from heaven now, in the person and through His Holy Spirit, He is with all His people (Matthew 18:20; Matthew 28:20). This could only be possible by His ascension. He is with us now in our joys (John 2:1-11); in our testings (Matthew 14:27); and all the time – look up Hebrews 13:5-6.
To prepare our heavenly home. This is stated in John 14:2 in the Saviour’s words. At His ascension the Bridegroom went to prepare a place for His Bride. He is our forerunner, we are to follow! – look up Hebrews 6:19-20.

“THIS SAME JESUS”: DESCENDING

Why will Jesus come back again? What will He do when He comes?

He is coming to receive all His people to Himself so that they may be with Him for ever. Turn to John 14:2, and compare 1 Corinthians 15:23. When He comes He will rapture all believers into His presence. The dead will be raised and the living will be changed, and we shall have new bodies. This rapture will not be partial but complete in that every redeemed person will go to be with the Lord, for we are saved by grace and not by works (1 Corinthians 15:51-54 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
He is coming to establish His earthly and millennial kingdom. This is referred to six times in Revelation 20, and of course the burden of all Old Testament prophecy that still waits fulfilment refers to the coming kingdom of Christ – look up Matthew 6:10; and will only be initiated at His return – look up Luke 1:31-33 and underline the six ‘wills’.
He is coming to judge His enemies and to usher in an eternity of blessing for all who love and belong to Him. How solemn this is! – look up 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; 2 Peter 3:7; Revelation 10:1-15; Revelation 21:8. But how glorious is the prospect for God’s people! – look up Revelation 22:1-5 and 20. Take note of 2 Peter 3:9-14.

MATTHIAS CHOSEN IN THE PLACE OF JUDAS

(Acts 1:15-26)

The decision to choose Matthias to take the place of Judas Iscariot was evidently an important one, as twelve verses are given to a description of all that took place. In this section of scripture we have an account of the first business meeting held by the Lord’s followers. Look up Matthew 19:27-28. Twelve in scripture is a number of perfect administration. Jesus chose twelve disciples to be with Him and He commissioned them to take the gospel to the whole world (Mark 3:13-14). But now there were only eleven because Judas who betrayed Him was missing. So Peter prompted the action described in Acts 1:15-22. In verses 23-26 we are told of the method adopted and of the actual appointment of Matthias. What are the lessons we can learn?

Throughout the history of the Church there has been lively discussion as to whether Peter was right or wrong in acting as he did

There are those who say that he acted carnally, that he was impetuous and was not directed by the Lord. Anyway, they say, the principle of selection was wrong. Surely it was wrong to choose two and then to cast lots, even though they did pray before they cast lots? We lean to the view, however, that Peter was right in what he did. We cannot be dogmatic about this. We must remember, however, that it was to Peter that the Lord said – Matthew 19:27-28; and although it has been stated that Paul was selected in order to make up the number of the twelve apostles, in actual fact his name is never associated with the other eleven; and to those who say that ‘after this we never hear of Matthias again’, this does not prove anything, for neither do we hear of some of the other disciples. Incidentally, we do hear about Matthias, though not actually by name (Acts 2:14; Acts 6:2). Peter stood up “with the Eleven”, and “the Twelve gathered all the disciples together”. But surely it was wrong to cast lots? Not necessarily, for these disciples were still acting under the old dispensation –look up Leviticus 16:8 and Proverbs 16:33.

Is it not possible that the Holy Spirit has recorded this because of the valuable lesson it contains regarding Church administration?

Notice three lessons in particular, and all who are engaged in the Lord’s work would do well to take note of them:

Church business must always be conducted in the atmosphere of prayer (verses 12-14). Those who took part had been present at the prayer meeting. It is only in this way that we can know the mind of the Lord and enjoy the unity of the Spirit. Church business is not our business; it is God’s business (Luke 2:49). He is the Director of His work, and it is essential to know His mind so that we can do His will, and the place for this is in ‘the upper room’ (verse 13).
We must guard against making our plans and then asking God’s blessing on them. We learn from verse 24 that they did not choose Matthias and then say, ‘Now, Lord, bless him!’ They prayed first, committed it to the Lord, then trusted Him to lead them and to give the answer that would glorify Him.
God has the plan for His Church and for His work. See verse 24. There was an admission by the people who were praying that they did not know what God’s will was (Jeremiah 10:23); but they did believe that God had a plan and a purpose which He was willing to reveal, so they prayed for His will to be made known – look up James 1:5.

This emphasises the supreme importance of the prayer-life of the Church – no prayer, no blessing; little prayer, little blessing; more prayer, more blessing; much prayer, much blessing.

Notice the kind of man who was needed to fill this office

What is the supreme qualification for a servant of God – a minister, missionary, pastor, deacon or Sunday school teacher? First and foremost he must be “a witness of the resurrection” (verse 22), meaning he must have had a vision of the risen Lord Jesus. There must be a recognition of who Jesus is and a surrender to Him as Lord and Master (Romans 10:9-10). Or, to put it concisely, the kind of men and women needed for Christian service are:-

Those who are thoroughly converted – men and women who have come to know the Lord Jesus Christ personally and who have entered into a saving experience of His grace, like Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:3-6).
Those who live out the risen Lord in their lives. One in whose life the risen Lord was seen and His presence and power evident was Stephen (Acts 6:8-15; Acts 7:54-60).
Those who are living as a risen man should live. To get the force of this look up and study Colossians 3:1-4, and then the verses which follow – verses 5-25.

When a man has really seen the risen Lord and has yielded fully to Him, everything becomes changed. He then knows what it is to be a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17), and to live for the Lord each day (Colossians 3:17).

Notice the confidence that these believers had in the scriptures

We must always be impressed that these disciples were very well versed in the Old Testament. Peter in his speech immediately referred back to Psalm 41:9; Psalm 69:25; Psalm 109:8, and said, “The Scripture had to be fulfilled.” He also attributed the scriptures to the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21). Again in Acts 1:20 he was quick to say, “It is written in the book of Psalms”. Is the Bible the Word of God? Indeed it is – look up 2 Timothy 3:16.

Finally, notice the title of our Saviour in verse 21

Who was it that Peter and the other disciples had come to follow and love? It was “the Lord Jesus”. This is the Christian testimony (1 Corinthians 12:3). Not just ‘Jesus’ (though that is His saving name); not just ‘Christ’ (though that is His official name); but the Lord Jesus. Always think and speak of Him as that.

THE HISTORY OF JUDAS SUMMARISED

(: Acts 1:15-26)

The most tragic name in human history is that of Judas Iscariot. This name is a synonym for all that is treacherous and unholy. Of all the sad accounts in God’s Word, what we are told about Judas makes the saddest reading. We can think of the sin of Cain, David, Saul, Samson, Ananias and Sapphira – but Judas! What a chill that name sends through one’s spirit! He is referred to in a number of places in the Gospels, but here we have the man’s history summarised:

Judas never was a converted man.

This is not the case of a backslider, of one who really knew and belonged to the Lord and who became side-tracked. Judas fell from his privileged position (verse 25) - not that he fell from grace (for that is not possible – look up John 10:28-29). Judas was a professor but not a possessor – look up 2 Timothy 3:5.

Jesus knew all about Judas when He chose him.

In verse 16 there is a reference to Psalm 41:9, which should be read in conjunction with John 2:25; John 6:64; John 6:70. This is a mystery, but we are left in no doubt that from the beginning Jesus knew all about Judas – look up Psalm 139:23-24 and compare John 1:47-48.

Judas was chosen as one of the Twelve (verse 17).

The question arises, Why did Jesus choose Judas? Joseph Parker’s answer to this question was, ‘The greater mystery is, why did Jesus choose me?’

Judas sold the Lord for a paltry sum of money (verse 18).

This should be read in conjunction with Zechariah 11:12-13; Matthew 26:14-16; 21-25; 47-50. Judas betrayed the Lord Jesus, the Son of God and the Saviour of the world, for thirty pieces of silver – the price in those days of a slave.

Judas betrayed the Lord with a kiss.

Verse 16 says that he “served as a guide for those who arrested Jesus”. How would the soldiers know who Jesus was, so that they could arrest the right one? Well, Judas would kiss Jesus. Think of it!

Judas, filled with remorse, hanged himself.

One of the most solemn verses in the whole Bible is Acts 1:18. Should this verse be read in conjunction with Matthew 18:3-8? Feel his remorse as you read Matthew 27:3-10.

Judas died and went to Hell.

There is a clear statement about this in verse 25, and it ends the sad record of Judas Iscariot. How different his end was from that of the repentant thief (Luke 23:42-43)! How sad it was in the light of John 14:2!

So we have seen in this portion of scripture a summary of the life, death and destiny of Judas Iscariot. What lessons should we learn from all this?

Helpful environment and spiritual privileges and benefits alone do not produce changed hearts.

Think of the privileges Judas had in being with the Lord and His disciples for three years, yet his heart was unchanged. We must always thank God for the privileges of church membership and of Christian fellowship, but it is possible to ‘enjoy’ these and still be lost – look up Matthew 7:21-23.

There is no salvation in outward morality.

Outwardly Judas was a moral and good-living man. The disciples evidently never suspected him; he was even chosen to be their treasurer, an office which is always filled with special care! But morality and status do not save – look up and compare John 3:3 and 5; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5.

Often, very little value is put upon the Lord Jesus and His love.

Judas was willing to sell the Lord for a very small sum. How much is He worth to you? Sometimes He is denied, and His love and grace are spurned by a small thing such as friendship or a business deal. What little things keep some people away from the Lord! – look up Luke 9:57-62.

One sin unrepented of may lead to perdition.

Was it in Judas’ case the love of money? He was certainly not a notorious sinner in the sense that he had committed a long list of crimes. His was the sin of covetousness and of hypocrisy – look up Matthew 6:19-23; John 12:6.

Opportunities and warnings persistently spurned spell final disaster.

No man had more or better opportunities for knowing and loving the Lord, yet Judas was lost – look up Proverbs 27:1, and face up to 2 Corinthians 13:5.

At death we shall go to a prepared place for which we are prepared!

God has two prepared places – turn again to John 14:2 and compare Matthew 25:41. Then turn to Revelation 20:11-15 and Revelation 22:1-5.

All of us are known for something!

Acts 1:19 gives us a word picture of the tombstone over Judas’ grave. What a memorial! The late Dr J. Stuart Holden once said, ‘What a warning flare is the story of this man, a flare whose warning none of us dare disregard! If we do so, it is at our peril. For unhappily there is nothing very exceptional in a divided heart, on the part of those who profess the faith of Christ. Judas only did what many another does, and seems to get away with.’ But, thank God, no-one needs to tread this dreadful path to Hell – and indeed, no truly saved soul ever will. If you are not sure of your own salvation, you can make sure now! – look up John 3:16; John 5:24; John 6:37; John 10:9 and Romans 10:9-13.

THE MEANING OF PENTECOST

(Acts 2:1-21)

In verse 12 of this section of scripture a very important question is asked: “What does this mean?” If we had been in Jerusalem on that day we would have asked the same question, for something amazing had happened. Jerusalem was packed with people, many of whom were there to present the first-fruits of the harvest for the year; they would have come from many different places. The Lord Jesus had completed His earthly ministry, having died, risen and ascended; but before going back to heaven He had given a command and a promise to His own disciples – Acts 1:4-5. In simple obedience these disciples met together to wait upon the Lord, and they did this for ten days – look up Acts 1:13-14; Acts 2:1-3. Then something very wonderful happened – Acts 2:1-3; and in the opening part of verse 4 we read of the essential thing which happened – “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit.” These disciples of Christ then began preaching the gospel in known languages (though unknown to themselves) so that people from foreign countries heard God’s message in their own native tongue – see Acts 2:4-12. But what did all this mean? What does Pentecost mean? Here are some straightforward scriptural answers:

Pentecost means that the Christian faith and the Christian gospel have to do with certain great facts of history, great acts of God.

It is in this respect that Christianity differs from and is superior to every other religious system. The Christian gospel is not just a lovely story, although it is that, because it is the story of something very wonderful that God has done in history. He has sent His own Son into this world (John 3:16; 1 Timothy 1:15). At just the right time Jesus came, rose, and ascended and went back to the right-hand of God (Galatians 4:4-6). The other wonderful thing that God has done in history is this: He has sent the Holy Spirit to live within and to empower His own people, and the second chapter of Acts records this.

Pentecost means that God is working for the redemption of men and women according to a carefully pre-ordained plan or programme.

There is nothing haphazard about God - Pentecost teaches this. From Acts 2:1 we learn that it was a pre-determined event in the mind of God. The Holy Spirit was not poured out as the result of the prayer meeting held by the disciples. In Leviticus 23:15-16 we read of the feast of Pentecost, which was to take place fifty days after the Passover feast. The Lord Jesus ascended into heaven forty days after His resurrection, and then ten days after that came the Day of Pentecost. Notice in Acts 2:13-17 that Pentecost was the first fulfilment of Joel’s prophecy which had been made 850 years previously (Joel 2:28-32).

Pentecost means that the Holy Spirit, who in Old Testament times came upon God’s servants to empower them, has now come to live for ever within every Christian.

In many of His sayings, the Lord Jesus anticipated the coming of the Holy Spirit (John 7:37-39; John 14:16-17). He promised that He would come to indwell all Christians, and at Pentecost that is exactly what happened – “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit” (verse 4). Since that day, immediately someone becomes a Christian the Holy Spirit takes up residence; this is the distinctive mark of a real Christian; look up and compare Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 6:19.

Pentecost means that the Holy Spirit who indwells every Christian waits and wants to fill every Christian.

If you look again at Acts 2:4 you will notice that they were “all filled” – young and old, rich and poor, educated and illiterate, preachers and pray-ers, were filled. This is God’s plan and provision for every one of His children; this is to be the normal experience for Christians – look up Acts 4:31; 9:17 and 13:52.

Pentecost means that God’s power is available to enable every Christian to live the Christian life and to serve God effectively.

If you study the Lord’s pattern for Christian living and serving you will find that Christians are to be new people (2 Corinthians 5:17); they are to be love-filled (John 13:34-35); holy (1 Peter 1:15); courageous (Acts 4:13); willing to suffer (Acts 5:41); they are to witness with power (Acts 1:8); to take the gospel to the ends of the world (Matthew 28:19). But how is this possible? – Zechariah 4:6!

Pentecost means that Christians are not isolated units but they are joined together as members of one glorious body, the Church.

Look up 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 and notice that there is only one body…there are many members… all Christians have been baptised or united into the one body…and all Christians have received the Holy Spirit. This is true unity! It is the Holy Spirit who creates the unity of the Spirit and who unites believers – look up Ephesians 4:3.

Pentecost means that the Gospel is for everybody and that anybody, anywhere, may be saved by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

We get this clearly brought out in Acts 2:21. What an amazing thing it is that provision has been made by the Lord for “whoever believes in him” (John 3:16) to know the Lord Jesus Christ as the living Saviour and the Holy Spirit as the abiding, indwelling Comforter!

In concluding this study look up 1 Peter 5:10-11.

THE EXPERIENCE AND EVIDENCE OF PENTECOST

(Acts 2:4)

The experience of Pentecost is indicated by the words, “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit…” The evidence of Pentecost is indicated by the words, “and began…” The experience came to about 120 who were in the upper room, an amazing and a transforming experience which since that day has come to vast numbers of God’s people. But we read not only of the experience of Pentecost but of the evidence of Pentecost when, because they were filled with the Holy Spirit, they “began…” Whenever God fills the heart, life and personality of one of His children with the Holy Spirit there will always be the evidence; and the evidence here is shown by the fact that those who were filled…began. In this study we shall see that the historical event of over 2000 years ago may and must become a personal experience in our lives.

THE EXPERIENCE OF PENTECOST

Acts 2:1-4 contains the record of what actually happened. Jesus had promised the coming of the Holy Spirit to indwell and fill His people (Acts 1:4-5); and in obedience to His command about 120 of His first followers were awaiting its fulfilment (Acts 1:12-14) . Then, suddenly He came, and “all of them were filled with the Holy Spirit”. But was this gift and blessing only for those disciples? No!

The experience of Pentecost, the infilling of the Holy Spirit, is just as real an experience for us today. The Spirit-filled life is God’s command – look up Ephesians 5:18. It is meant to be the normal experience of God’s people, and it is so definite and real that you would know whether or not you had entered into the experience – look up and compare Acts 4:8; Acts 4:31; Acts 6:3 and 5; Acts 7:55; Acts 9:17; Acts 11:24; Acts 13:9 and 52.
The experience of Pentecost, the infilling of the Holy Spirit, is for every Christian. Notice the significance of the word “all” in Acts 2:4. No-one was excluded – look at Acts 2:39! Some of those present that day are mentioned in Acts 1:13-14; there were all kinds of people – and all were filled with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit-filled life is God’s provision for every one of His children in order to make vital Christian living and effective Christian service possible.
The experience of Pentecost, the infilling of the Holy Spirit, frequently comes subsequently to conversion. We are not basing this statement on the experience of these first disciples, because they lived through a period of transition – before Calvary, after Calvary, before the Ascension, after the Ascension, before Pentecost and after Pentecost. There is no parallel to this in our experience. Judicially, so far as God is concerned, we get all at conversion (Ephesians 1:3); but we do not necessarily know this or enter into God’s plan and purpose for us when we are first converted. To put it another way: every Christian has the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9); but not every Christian is filled, possessed by the Holy Spirit.
The experience of Pentecost, the infilling of the Holy Spirit, is an experience greater than that of conversion. “Having life to the full” is more than life (John 10:10); “joy that is complete” is greater than joy (John 15:11); power for service is greater and different from the power to enter God’s family – look up and compare John 1:12; Acts 1:8. No doubt the greatest day in Peter’s life was the Day of Pentecost!
The experience of Pentecost, the infilling of the Holy Spirit, is a radical experience. To be filled with the Holy Spirit implies being emptied of every unholy thing – everything that is unlike the Lord and that is displeasing to Him. It is only when we are willing to be emptied of sin and self, cleansed in the blood of Christ, that the Holy Spirit can fill us.

THE EVIDENCE OF PENTECOST

There was immediate evidence of the Holy Spirit’s presence and power in the lives of the first disciples. We read that they “began” –

WHAT did they begin? “…they began to speak in other tongues”. This did happen but it was not the essential thing. The most important thing is that they began to be vital and effective; they began to live and work for Christ (Acts 4:33); to speak for Christ (Acts 8:4); to suffer for Christ (Acts 5:41). How mightily they were transformed when they were filled with the Holy Spirit!
WHEN did they begin? - when they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and not before. Here we see one cause of much of our ineffective service. How often we go out to serve the Lord in our own strength, forgetting the truth of Zechariah 4:6! These first followers began to witness for the Lord after Pentecost, not before (Luke 24:49); compare Acts 1:4-5. We are only ready to live for the Lord and to serve Him when we are filled with the Spirit.
WHERE did they begin? In Jerusalem. When God fills us it is so that we may first of all be effective witnesses among our own people (Acts 1:8); compare Acts 9:26-30. An experience of Pentecost should give us a burden for the salvation of our loved ones and friends. Spirit-filled witnesses begin to honour the Lord by living and working for Him among their own people (Acts 1:8), and compare Acts 9:26-30. An experience of Pentecost will give us a burden for the salvation of our loved-ones and friends.
WHY did they begin? Because they could not help doing so! - Acts 4:20.
HOW did they begin? In a sense “they” did not begin at all – it was the Lord from heaven, by the Holy Spirit, who began doing His gracious work – look up Mark 16:19-20.

PETER’S SERMON ON THE DAY OF PENTECOST

(Acts 2:14-36)

It has been rightly said that Peter’s pronouncement on the Day of Pentecost “was homiletically correct as well as doctrinally sound. His theme needed skilful development, and before getting to the heart of his subject it was necessary for him to adjust to the excited minds of the people to whom he was giving the message.” This helps all those who preach the gospel, and to begin with notice that Peter’s sermon was in three distinct parts – introduction, development and application. Each of these parts carries a pronoun for its title: the introduction explains “this” (verse 16); the development proclaims “him” (verse 23); the application concerns “you” (verse 36). Here then is a model gospel address. The Book of Acts is the textbook on gospel preaching: there are 22 sermons or speeches – 9 by Peter, 9 by Paul and one each by Stephen, Philip, James and Ananias. Take a look at Peter as he preached the gospel at Pentecost:-

THE METHOD HE ADOPTED

There is clear, down-to-earth instruction here for preachers of the gospel, the good news that God gives to sinful men and women. There are five important things to notice about Peter’s preaching:

It was short and straight to the point. His speech was vital and urgent, with no unnecessary words (1 Corinthians 2:4). There was no pointless repetition. Notice that it was directed to the mind, giving instruction; to the heart, producing enthusiasm; to the conscience, resulting in conviction; and to the will, leading to decision.
It was simple, plain and clear. All in the congregation could understand exactly what he was saying, because although he was proclaiming the glorious “new” message of the gospel, it was against the historical background which his hearers would be familiar with. It was a case of the masses of the people hearing Peter gladly (Mark 12:37); because Peter spoke with great simplicity (2 Corinthians 3:12). He also spoke clearly and loudly – see verse 14!
It was instructive and informative. Peter’s preaching was not merely ‘emotional evangelism’. Actually there is no such thing mentioned in the New Testament, although there is much of it about today. In the New Testament the appeal of the gospel is always an appeal to the mind, the heart, the conscience and the will (Isaiah 1:18). The great need today is for a teaching evangelism. This is true because God commands it (Acts 5:42) and because of man’s need of being taught the truth (1 Corinthians 2:14).
It was scriptural. Paul’s injunction to Timothy was to “preach the Word” (2 Timothy 4:2); and Peter certainly did this here. Many words in his sermon are quoted from the Old Testament. His sermon was full of the prophetic word. This is a convincing method of preaching – to show that all fulfilled prophecy has been literally fulfilled. Notice also that Peter’s preaching was in its right dispensational context and setting. He was familiar with God’s programme for the days in which we are living. He was not expecting the conversion of the world, or the kingdom of God to come on earth now, but the calling out of the Church to be the Bride of Christ (Acts 15:13-18).
It was bold, fearless and without apology. This was a distinctive characteristic of New Testament preaching; it was done with holy boldness, as the result, of course, of the experience promised in Acts 1:8. Look up Acts 4:13 and Acts 4:29.

THE MESSAGE HE PROCLAIMED

This is clearly stated in verse 36 – “Jesus…both Lord and Christ”. Peter did not preach religion, a religious system or even a creed, but he preached a living Person, the Person of God’s own Son and the work which He accomplished for guilty men and women. He preached the mighty acts of God; what God had done in His Son for the salvation of men and women. Notice:

He preached His incarnation (verse 22) in the words “Jesus of Nazareth was a man…” He was the God-man, the man who was “accredited by God”, a phrase which indicates His deity.
He preached His crucifixion (verse 23), which declares divine sovereignty and human responsibility, and which tells us that the Lord was born to die for a purpose (1 Peter 3:18).
He preached His resurrection (verses 24 and 32). Peter showed that this was predicted in the Old Testament (verses 25-28), and this was always the great emphasis of apostolic teaching and preaching (Psalm 16:8-11). Compare Acts 17:18.
He preached His ascension (implied in verse 33). Look up and compare John 20:17; Acts 1:9-11; Ephesians 4:8-10.
He preached His exaltation (verses 33 and 36). What a triumphant conclusion this was to a great sermon! Thank God we proclaim a living and glorious Lord – look up Hebrews 7:25!

THE MIRACLE HE WITNESSED

This is outlined for us in verses 37-41. As the result of Peter’s preaching many who heard him were “cut to the heart” (verse 37) and asked the question, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter at once gave the answer –‘Repent of your sin, identify yourselves with this Lord Jesus Christ by open commitment to Him, and receive forgiveness and the gift of the Holy Spirit’ (verses 38-40). About three thousand people were converted and declared their allegiance to the Lord Jesus by being baptised, by following on to know the Lord, and by entering into fellowship with His people (verses 41-47).

THE INNER LIFE OF THE CHURCH

(Acts 2:41-47)

In these verses we have a pattern for the whole dispensation of what the church should be like. If we ask the question, What should our local church be like? – we find the answer in these verses. What are the marks or characteristics of a true church?

This church was spiritually constituted by Christ

This means it was not the work of man but God’s work. He made this church. He constituted it and put it together. In Matthew 16:18 we have the Lord’s promise that He would do this, and if you look at Acts 2:41 and 47 you will see that it was the Lord who made this infant church in Jerusalem by adding to it those who were saved. How is a church formed? Well, the gospel is preached, the Holy Spirit produces conviction, the Word is received, the miracle of new birth takes place, and those who are born again are added to the Lord. So, the Lord’s church is constituted by Him of believers, those who have received His Word (verse 41), those who have been added to the church by Him (verse 47).

This church was openly committed to Christ

The people in this passage of scripture had heard the gospel as Peter had preached it; they had been convicted of their sin and had repented and received the Word – all this is described in Acts 2:37-40. But verse 41 follows verse 40! – and in this verse we are told that those who accepted the Word “were baptised”. What a great baptismal service that must have been because about 3,000 were baptised! What a glorious testimony this was to the power and grace of God! Here we have God’s blueprint, His picture of the early church, and we are told that when 3,000 were converted these 3,000 were baptised. Why was this? They were baptised in obedience to the Lord’s command (Matthew 28:19-20). They were also baptised as an open confession that they had renounced their old life and were now trusting Christ as their Lord and Saviour – compare verses 37 and 40. Baptism does not make Christians, nor does the New Testament teach adult baptism, any more than we think it teaches infant baptism. In the early church, when people believed they were then baptised; believing and baptism always went together. There is no case recorded in the Acts of an unbaptised believer.

This church was gloriously united in Christ

The key word in verse 44 is the word ‘together’. They were different in age, background and temperament but now, having trusted Christ and been added to the church, “all the believers were together”, which means that they were not only together in the sense that they were in each other’s presence, but they were “all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). What is this ‘togetherness’?

They grew together (verse 42). They were babies in God’s family, and together they “devoted themselves” to Him, growing in grace (2 Peter 3:18).
They fed on the Word together (verse 42) – “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching”. They had no New Testament so depended on the teaching. The greatest need is for God’s people to be biblically indoctrinated.
They spent much time together (verse 42) – “devoted themselves…to fellowship…” – look up Malachi 3:16. Fellowship is our common inheritance in Christ.
They remembered the Lord’s death together (verse 42) – there is reference here to the breaking of bread which was at the very heart of their united worship. At His Table we look back to Calvary, up to the Throne and on to His coming.
They prayed together (verse 42) – “they devoted themselves…to prayer”. How we have drifted away from this early pattern!
They shared together (verse 44) – we read here of the grace of generosity that was apparent among these early Christians. Is it a pattern for today? – look up Acts 20:35.
They rejoiced together. What exciting reading verses 46 and 47 make! Has your love for the Lord and His people, for His house and His Word, grown stale? Have you lost the thrill of being a Christian, the wonder of being saved?

This church was dynamically empowered through Christ

See what the apostle said in Philippians 4:13. The church pictured here in Acts 2 was what it was “through Christ”. In Acts 2:4 we have the record of the empowering which took place on the Day of Pentecost, and in Acts 4:31 we read of a repetition of the Holy Spirit’s filling in the hearts and lives of these Christians. All that we have seen of this church was the manifestation of the Spirit’s work. Christ Himself, by the Holy Spirit, made this church what it was.

Notice two special ways in which this empowering affected the members of the church, and through them the outside world:-

The members of the church were characterised by holiness, and this made a great impression on all the people. In verse 43 we read, “Everyone was filled with awe”. These early Christians were holy and Christ-like; they were characterised by godliness, and verse 47 tells us that they enjoyed “the favour of all the people”.
The members of the church were characterised by power. Verse 43 tells us that “many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.” Are we powerful or pitifully weak? In Acts 1:8 we have the secret of power to live the gospel and to preach this gospel.

THE OUTREACH AND MINISTRY OF THE CHURCH

(Acts 3:1-11)

If at the end of Acts 2 we have a description of the inner life of the church, here in Acts 3 we have a picture of the outer activity of the church. In these verses we see the Mission, the Might and the Method of the Church; or, what is the job of the church? what is the power available to do the job? and what is the way to do it?

THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH

What is it? From a study of Acts 2:41-47 we might get the impression that the church is to be a kind of mutual aid society! But the record does not end with chapter 2; it goes on into chapter 3 where we learn that in terms of service, believers are saved to serve, and their service consists of taking life to lame and helpless humanity. Look carefully at the man described in these verses, where we see a picture of humanity without God; for he is lame (he has been like it from birth), he is helpless, destitute and more concerned about material needs than about spiritual needs. Notice here that he is near the temple but outside it. Peter and John took the gospel and offered salvation to this man; and that is the job, the mission of the church in the world. This was Jesus’ programme – look up Luke 4:18-19; it is to be ours as well – look up John 17:18 and John 20:21. The mission of the church surely is to rescue the perishing and to care for the dying, to snatch them from the terrors of sin and to tell them of Jesus, who can save them.

THE MIGHT OF THE CHURCH

What is the church’s power to deal with such a desperate need as lame and helpless humanity? It is certainly not material power – not the power of money, as we learn from verse 6; not the power of personality – made clear in verse 4. A reference to Acts 4:13 makes it clear also that the church’s real power is not the power of human eloquence. The church’s power is divine, spiritual power; it is the power of the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ (verse 6). His Name signifies His person – all that He, our risen, ascended and exalted Lord is – look at verses 12 and 16. The church of God is only powerful as she lifts up, exalts and preaches the Lord Jesus (Acts 8:5; 1 Corinthians 2:2). This is why it is not only foolish but sinful to make much of a movement or a denomination. Our one great concern must be to make much of Christ, and to strip away from our service and activity all that is inconsistent with His mighty Name. A church is never great because of numbers, or finance, or good preaching or worldly reputation. The only true might any church has is the might of the Lord Himself – look at verses 12 and 16. If the Mission of the Church is to go out to save men and women, and the Might of the church is that power of the Lord Himself, what is the Method of the Church?

THE METHOD OF THE CHURCH

Their method was one of divine co-operation. That is, it was the Lord on the Throne working with and through Peter and John, as we learn from Mark 16:19-20. The Lord was doing His work (it was His work!) through human channels, in this case Peter and John. It was not Peter and John doing the work – they were available to the Lord and were simply the instruments in His hands.

Their Method was one of human co-operation. Here we see that Peter and John were working together (verse 1) – “Peter and John…”; and in verses 3, 4 and 11. What a glorious partnership this was! – two men with different gifts. There is variety in the church, and there is a great need for the Lord’s workers to respect each other’s God-given ministry (1 Corinthians 12:3-31).

Their Method consisted of going out to make contact with the world (verses 6-7 again). We are to take the gospel, the message of the love and grace of God to the people where they are; then we are to have contact with them – “Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up…” – look up and compare Psalm 126:6; Matthew 28:19; Mark 5:18-19.

Their Method was primarily spiritual in its activity. It was not only evangelical, it was evangelistic (verses 7-9). He was healed physically, but more important than this, he was saved spiritually. The gospel is a social matter, but primarily it is spiritual. Our souls need healing before our bodies (Mark 2:5-12). Thank God for every bit of social outreach that is carried on by the Church today! The gospel has a social application – of course it does! – but social activity, ministering to the physical, material and temporal needs of men and women, must always be undertaken as an extension and expression of evangelistic concern (Mark 8:36).

Their Method was empowered and made effective by prayer. We learn this from verse 1. Probably the temple prayer meeting was ‘dead’ – but Peter and John were there. Here we see the secret of their power: individual prayer, “Peter”…”John” – look up Matthew 6:6; united prayer, “Peter and John” – look up Matthew 18:19; and corporate prayer, “at the time of prayer! – look up Acts 12:5. Martin Luther wrote, “The prayers of the saints are the decrees of God beginning to operate.”

PETER’S SECOND RECORDED SERMON

(Acts 3:12-26)

Preaching is the primary task of the Church. This means that not only preachers but all who pray for them and listen to preachers should be deeply interested in this study. Unfortunately preaching is often regarded as unimportant, and consequently many things have been put in its place. Some have advocated the substitution of dialogue and discussion, but there is no substitute for preaching itself. It must come first because this is the Church’s primary task. What is preaching? True preaching is the communication of divine truth through human personality in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Church’s commission is to preach the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20); it is the means by which faith is awakened in the hearer (Romans 10:17); it is a necessity laid upon the preacher (1 Corinthians 9:16), and compare Jeremiah 20:8-9 and Acts 6:4. Preaching is the means of salvation (1 Corinthians 1:21), and the history of the early Church demonstrates its importance. Look at Peter’s sermon recorded in Acts 3:12-26 and notice seven things about it.

THE OCCASION

We usually preach at appointed times, but that was not the case here. Something happened which produced an opportunity for preaching, and we read about this in Acts 3:1-11. In verse 12 we see how Peter quickly took advantage of the occasion and made it a glorious opportunity to present the gospel message (1 Corinthians 16:9). How often did these early preachers preach? - whenever they got the opportunity (Acts 5:42; Acts 6:4; Acts 8:4-5). If preaching is the communication of divine truth through human personality in the power of the Holy Spirit, how many times are we to do this? (2 Timothy 4:1-5).

THE DIRECTNESS

Notice how quickly Peter applied his message to his hearers. He said, “Men of Israel…” (verse 12). Some preachers are so general in their approach and in their proclamation and application of the truth that one wonders who they are speaking to! They do not take aim; they fire at random and hit nobody. Sometimes preachers are afraid to be too personal, but the apostles were not like this – look up and compare Acts 2:39; 13:26. When Nathan came to David with a solemn message he was not vague or indefinite in his application of the truth. He said, “You are the man!” – and David knew full well that God’s word was meant for him and for him only – look up 2 Samuel 12:1-13 (particularly note verses 7 and 13).

THE RELEVANCE

How carefully Peter related his message to the people, and how skilfully he got on to their wave-length by speaking about Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (verse 13) and the prophets (verse 18) – compare verses 22-24 and 25. His hearers were familiar with these things since Peter was speaking within the context of their history. We are to preach in ways that will be understood, against the background of people’s knowledge and needs. This is the kind of preaching that God blesses.

THE HEART

The central theme of Peter’s sermon was God’s love and grace revealed in His Son. He soon mentioned Jesus (verses 12-13). True preaching is all about Jesus! Notice the names he gives to the Lord in one brief sermon:

“his Son Jesus” (verse 13 KJV) – look up and compare John 1:1-2 and 14; Matthew 1:21.
“the Holy and Righteous One” (verse 14); the testimony of God, of His friends and enemies, of angels, demons and of Himself was that He was sinless – look at Hebrews 7:26.
“the author of life” (verse 15) – declaring that He is the one who came to give life and that He slew death by dying and gives eternal life to all who trust Him – look up 1 John 5:11-12.
“Christ” (verse 18), the anointed one. This is His official title.
“the Christ” (verse 20) – the one anointed to be Saviour – look up Acts 4:12.
“His Son Jesus” (verse 26 KJV); here is the wonder of His perfect deity and true humanity.

This is the preacher’s message – the message of Christ’s incarnation (implied throughout); His crucifixion (declared in verse 15); His resurrection (presented in verses 15 and 26); and His glorification (stated in verse 13).

THE CHALLENGE

Peter’s attitude was not, ‘Take it or leave it!’; it was, ‘You are guilty; you must do something about it!’ (verses 19 and 26). These people were to repent and be converted. These are missing notes in much modern preaching, but they are essential in all true biblical preaching.

THE URGENCY

When Peter preached it was a matter of life or death for his hearers, and in verse 23 he reminded them of the solemn danger of rejecting God’s message. There are only two classes of people (Luke 19:10); two ways (Matthew 7:13-14); two destinies (Matthew 25:46).

THE PREACHER

Take a quick look at him! He was a born-again man, a Spirit-filled man, a Bible-believing man, but also he was: (1) A praying man (Acts 3:1). (2) A reliable man (Acts 3:12). (3) A faithful man, bold and courageous (Acts 20:27). Pray that God will raise up preachers like this to preach sermons like this!

THERADIANT TESTIMONY OF PETER AND JOHN

(: Acts 4:1-13)

The key-verse to this section of scripture is verse 13. Peter and John were enjoying and seeing an experience of the Lord Jesus Christ that was vital, warm, radiant and attractive; and this at once raises the question: Can the same thing be said of us – of you? Think about it. Why are so many churches empty? Why do so few Christians make any impression on the world? Why is it that the great majority of people are outside our churches? Surely part of the answer is that so much Christianity is not vital and it does not affect others. There is too much profession and too little possession (Titus 1:16); too many Christians are half-hearted (Matthew 26:58); carnal (1 Corinthians 3:1-4); or lukewarm (Revelation 3:16). But it is quite evident that Peter and John had the real thing! Their experience of Christ was vital, disturbing and productive, in fact so much so that even their accusers were deeply impressed – compare verses 5, 6 and 13. What are the characteristics of this vital experience of the Lord?

It is quickly seen

Notice the word “saw” in verse 13. A real Christian will be seen (Mark 7:24). Of course, dead, lifeless religion is also seen, with the result that people are repelled; but when a real Christian is seen what a wonderful influence that is! We can be sure that the people with whom we live and work know whether we have the real thing or not. There are two places where we cannot bluff about living the Christian life: the first is our home, the second is where we work.

It is bold and fearless

Notice the word ‘courage’ in verse 13. How did those who looked at Peter and John see their courage? They saw it in three ways:

In their Might. That is, in the miracle they performed in the Lord’s name (verse 16); what a mighty miracle it was! Like all miracles, it was God’s work.
In their Manner. Read through the whole chapter and especially notice verses 18-21, and see with what holy boldness and with what confidence these men stood before their accusers.
In their Message. Notice verses 8-10 and 12 in particular. What holy audacity characterised Peter and John as they proclaimed the gospel, in spite of the fact that they had been forbidden to do so!

It is ready to suffer persecution

We learn about this in verse 3 – and here surely is the test of the reality of our experience of Christ. When persecution comes, mere religion will fail, but if we really know the Lord we shall stand the test. Many are being tested by severe persecution in many countries today; but let us take solemn warning from these words that persecution looms ahead for some of us – suddenly or unexpectedly – look up Acts 5:40-41, and compare John 16:1-4.

It is independent of natural gifts

That is to say, it triumphs in all kinds of people. We see in verse 13 that the rulers and chief priests marvelled because Peter and John were only ignorant and unlearned men, but God delights to use nobodies! Let us not put a premium on ignorance. If you are going to serve the Lord, get the best possible equipment by all means, but let us also rejoice that God can take up a nobody and use him, just as He took Peter and John (1 Corinthians 1:27-31).

It gets very big results

Two Christians set on fire by the Lord can infect thousands (verse 4). Do you reply, ‘But things are so different today!’? Are they? What is different? Is the gospel any different? – look up Romans 1:16; has the Lord changed? – look up Hebrews 13:8; is man’s inherent need any different? – look up Jeremiah 17:9; and is the Holy Spirit’s power restricted? (Micah 2:7). No, we are the ones who are different. We are not vitally attractive, radiant Christians.

It attracts to Christ Himself

It does not attract to the messengers but to the Master (verse 13). The only explanation the rulers and priests could give was – JESUS – compare Acts 3:12. When God’s servants are like Peter and John, men and women are not drawn to them but to their Lord, and will say, ‘What a wonderful Saviour!’

It glorifies God

One humble, vital, radiant Christian can bring great glory to the Lord of glory! – compare verses 14 and 21. What is the secret of this experience of Christ? The clue is in verse 13, where we read of Peter and John that they “had been with Jesus”. How had they been with Jesus? They had been with Him:

In the place of pardon. They had been to the Cross. Through faith in their Redeemer their sins had been forgiven (John 20:20-21). All real and vital Christian experience begins at the Cross of Calvary.
In the place of power. Before He ascended and went back to heaven, the Lord said – look up Acts 1:4-5 and 8; and His word was wonderfully fulfilled in the experience of His disciples (Acts 2:4). Now Peter is standing before his accusers – see what Acts 4:8-10 tells us! Peter and John were not only pardoned men but power-filled men, filled with the Spirit of Pentecost.
In the place of prayer. They prayed before Pentecost (Acts 1:12-14), and after Pentecost (Acts 3:1; Acts 4:24) – see how many other references to praying people you find in the remaining chapters of the Book of Acts!

HOLY DETERMINATION TO MAKE CHRIST KNOWN

(Acts 4:8-22)

In these verses we read of Peter concluding his address to the Sanhedrin. The man lame from birth had been healed and the Jewish authorities had made a vigorous protest. However, verse 10 makes it quite clear that nothing could silence Peter and his colleagues. They were determined to make Christ known. Consider some of the important lessons brought before us in this passage.

Notice the metaphor by which Peter refers to the Lord

He speaks of Him in verse 11 as “the stone…”, a quotation from Psalm 118:22.

The Jews had a legend that when the temple of Solomon was in the course of construction, all the stones sent out from the quarry below were practically the same size. Then one day a stone was found of a different size and shape from the rest. The workmen tipped it over the cliff. “This must be a mistake…” – and it fell down into the valley of Kedron. It took seven years to build Solomon’s temple, and at the end of the seven years they were ready for the chief corner stone to be put into position. Only then did they realise that they had tipped this over the cliff! So it was searched for and found, and placed in position.

Peter took up this legendary story, which had been passed on through the centuries, and he said, “That stone was a picture of Christ, whom you have rejected!” In Isaiah 28:16 Christ is the Foundation Stone on which the Church is built (Matthew 16:18; 1 Corinthians 3:11; Ephesians 2:20). In Matthew 21:41-46 Christ is the Stumbling Stone over which the unbeliever falls (Matthew 21:44). In Daniel 2:31-45 Christ is the Kingdom Stone which will break in pieces all other kingdoms and will fill the whole earth.

Notice that the Lord Jesus is the only Saviour

The wording in verse 11 speaks of the stone, not a stone; and in verse 12 this truth that the Lord Jesus is the only Saviour is forcibly brought out. Notice:

Salvation is in a Person. It is in the Person of Jesus Christ our Lord. It is not in a creed, the Church, a system, a denomination, or in works. It is only in the Person of Christ – look up and compare Luke 2:27-30; Luke 19:6 and 9. Salvation is in Christ; to have Him is to be saved!
The name of the Person signifies His authority and ability to save – look up Matthew 1:21.
This means that He is the only Saviour – compare Isaiah 45:22; John 10:9; John 14:6; Acts 4:12. There have been many great teachers and philosophers who have enriched mankind by their wisdom – but they are all dead. Jesus is the greatest and He is the eternal Son of God who is alive now on the Throne of the Universe. He is unique; none can compare with Him and He alone is able to save (Hebrews 7:25; Jude 24).

Notice the illustration of the outshining of the indwelling Christ

The healing of the lame man was a great miracle. The Jews admitted this (verse 16); but this was not the only miracle. Perhaps the greater one is recorded in verse 13, where we read of these two humble men who were new creations in Christ – look up 2 Corinthians 5:17 – and through whose lives the Lord Jesus manifested Himself. Here we see what a Christian is, and when Christ is seen He cannot be hidden (Mark 7:24). He must shine out of the life in which He lives. What was the secret of this radiant, outshining testimony? It was that “they had been with Jesus” – living in close communion with their Lord.

Notice the mighty power that there is in a changed life

We read in verse 14 that those who were opposing Peter and John had nothing to say, because in front of them stood the man who had been healed by the Lord. How can we prove to the Sadducee that there is a resurrection from the dead, that Jesus still performs miracles? How can we prove to the atheist, the agnostic, the sceptic and the cynic, the power of the living Christ? Can we do it by argument or simply by discussion? No! These have their place, but the thing which will overcome all obstacles and put down all prejudice is for those who do not know the Lord to see a real Christian. The presence of the healed man was an unanswerable proof of the truth of Peter’s message.

Notice the importance of first loyalties

We must keep the truth of verse 19 always before us – ‘Is this thing right in God’s sight?…Will what I propose doing please Him?…If I do this, will I be breaking one of His commandments?…’ Here is a test which will guide us – in business, at home, in our personal or church life. Is it right in God’s sight to sign this contract? To accept this offer of quick profit? To read this book? To encourage this friendship? To join this church? Will it please Him?

Notice the divine compulsion which rests on the true servant of God

Look at verse 20. These men had been forbidden to preach but all they could say was, ‘We can’t help it!’ It was just impossible to silence them! They felt as Jesus did (John 9:4); as Paul did (1 Corinthians 9:16). If our hearts are full of love for Christ and for the souls of men, we shall not find it hard to give our lives to His service and to speak out the gospel message – look up Matthew 12:34.

Notice verses 21 and 22

God’s servants were set free after all; but the great thing to observe is that God was glorified in all that was done.

SEVEN MARKS OF A PRAYING CHURCH

(Acts 4:23-37)

There is only one real problem in the Church these days – the prayer-life of the church. Other problems might include getting the outsider to attend services, securing spiritual results from our ministry, finding right leaders for various activities; the problem of finance, and the problem created by the lack of love and unity which so often prevails among Christians. But these are secondary matters. The real problem is the prayer-life of the Church, and if that is solved every other problem at once finds solution. Prayer is the very life of the church; it is the life of the church’s individual members; it is the life of the church’s worship, and it is the life of the church’s varied activities. In Acts 4:23-35 seven marks of a praying church are indicated. Let us consider these and ask: Is my church a praying church?

In a praying church there will be a recognition of the importance of prayer, and therefore there is a spontaneous desire for prayer

Peter and John had been imprisoned and as soon as they were released they joined the Christians in Jerusalem to report on all that had been happening to them (verse 23). When the Christians heard their report, what did they do? Did they hold a conference? No – see verse 24. They prayed. They recognised that prayer was fundamental, and they all felt the same about it. Do we recognise the supreme importance of prayer, and have we a spontaneous desire for it?

In a praying church faith looks towards the Lord

Notice verse 24. They turned their eyes away from man and from the problems at hand, and they turned to the Lord who could solve every problem and who is in control of every situation (Psalm 62:5). Whatever problem faces us it is God who matters – not the meetings, the preacher, man or money. These are always secondary. The eyes of a praying church are upon God who is:

The Sovereign Lord (verses 24 and 28). God is the all-powerful creator and sustainer and He is the One who knows the end from the beginning.
The Self-Revealing Lord. Verse 25 tells us that God has spoken, and verses 26-27 tell us that He has spoken not only through the prophets and in His Word, but finally and primarily by His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2).
The Seeing Lord (verse 29). God does see all and waits to intervene and to accomplish His will in answer to the prayers of His people.

In a praying church there is obedience to the Great Commission

See how they prayed (verse 29). Notice that they did not pray, ‘Please keep us safe’ – ‘Keep Peter and John protected’ – ‘Lord, don’t let it happen again!’; they prayed, ‘Lord, help us to get on with the job of proclaiming the gospel!’ (Matthew 28:19). In a praying church the overwhelming desire of the members will be to make Christ known to a lost world. Does this characterise our church? Is there a constant effort being made, not to organise, but to evangelise?

In a praying church there is faith to demand miracles

Where the importance of prayer is realised and where prayer is really put into operation, God breaks in with His supernatural acts, His ‘signs and wonders’ (verse 30). They prayed that God would perform miracles. Some people say that the apostolic signs are no longer required, and since the canon of scripture is closed we must not expect to see miracles performed; but often when we say these things we are excusing our lack of prayer. When the church really prays then miracles take place – in the spiritual realm, when souls are saved and even desperate people are converted. In the physical realm also God is often pleased to heal the bodies and minds of His children.

In a praying church the Holy Spirit manifests His presence and power

Prayer is the secret of every pentecostal outpouring; but notice, we are not considering what happened on the Day of Pentecost. This happened after Pentecost and it can happen again and again! There will never be another Pentecost dispensationally – but there can be one experimentally (verse 31)!

In a praying church there is mighty power in gospel preaching

What happened after they had prayed? – see verses 31 and 33. This always happens in a praying church; people are stricken down by the power of the Word and many are saved; but in every case where great things have been accomplished through gospel preaching it has always and only been in answer to the prayers of God’s people. Conviction and conversions follow the preaching which is backed up by a praying church.

In a praying church there is much grace in the lives of God’s people

In verse 33 the operative words are “much grace”. This grace means Christ-likeness – and it was seen in four ways:

There was the grace of unity – verse 32.
There was the grace of renunciation – verse 32.
There was the grace of fellowship – verse 32
There was the grace of generosity – verses 34-35.

These are the marks of a praying church, but a church is constituted of men and women. A praying church, therefore, is a company of Christians who pray, not only individually, but corporately as a church. Will you do your part, God helping you, to make your church a praying church?

FILLED AFRESH WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT

(Acts 4:23-37)

The subject of the infilling of the Holy Spirit is so important for every Christian, and we must consider Acts 4:31 very carefully. The operative word in the title is “afresh”, for it is evident that many of those who were filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 4:31 had been present and filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:4! That prayer we often pray is quite correct – ‘Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me…” We should experience fresh fillings of the Spirit all the way through our Christian experience, for only then can we live joyfully, serve powerfully, and glorify God in all that we think, do and say. Let us ask three questions:

What is this filling with the Holy Spirit?
It is a definite experience. Picture the scene: Peter and John had been released from prison and had immediately joined the believers in Jerusalem. After they had “reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them” (verse 23), they held a wonderful prayer meeting, after which “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” (verse 31). So, they knew the place, the time and the date when this happened because it was a definite experience; just as it was a definite experience for those present in Acts 2:4, and for Saul in Acts 9:17.
It is more than His indwelling and His baptism. These believers were already indwelt by the Holy Spirit. He, who had been with them before, had come to indwell them on the Day of Pentecost, according to the Lord’s promise (John 14:16-17); compare Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 6:19. They had also been baptised by the Holy Spirit and had thus been brought into union with Christ (Romans 6:4); compare 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 4:5. But the baptism and the initial indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a positional matter; it has to do with our standing. The filling with the Holy Spirit is an experimental or experiential matter, so it is true to say that being filled with the Holy Spirit is more than His coming to dwell within us and His baptising us into the body of Christ.
It is for all believers. We only have to look at the word ‘they’, which occurs three times in verse 31, to be sure of this. Peter and John and the other members of the early Church were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and this gracious infilling and enabling is for every Christian; no Christian can really live the Christian life or serve God effectively without this.
It is not a once-and-for-all experience. The simple comparison of Acts 2:4 and Acts 4:31 makes this clear. There must, of course, be an initial experience of the infilling, but it would be quite wrong to leave the matter at that. We can never lose the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit because He has come to live with us for ever (John 14:16-17); but when we grieve Him (Ephesians 4:30), or quench Him (1 Thessalonians 5:19), we may restrict His work through us. Also, we need fresh fillings of the Holy Spirit to fit us for every fresh piece of service that we undertake for the Lord.
It may be received by faith alone, apart from feelings. This verse suggests the very opposite, because we read that on this occasion “the place where they were meeting was shaken”. Do not be misled by this. After all, the Holy Spirit is sovereign in His work. The essential thing is that “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit”, and in the same way we should be filled (Ephesians 5:18). Look up 1 John 5:14-15. Make sure you are filled and leave God to decide how the fullness of the Spirit will be seen in your life.

How does the filling of the Holy Spirit show itself?

What are the results, evidences, manifestations? How is it seen? Whether the building is shaken or we are moved with deep emotion is not the important thing. What is more important is what follows:

There was boldness to speak the word of God (verse 31). We find this so hard; it is because we are timid, reticent and fearful; what is the remedy? It is the filling of the Holy Spirit, who gives authority, power and ability to speak the word (Acts 2:4; Acts 4:8; Acts 4:31). It was “the word of God” that they spoke.
There was unity of heart and purpose (verse 32). Jesus prayed “that all of them may be one” (John 17:21). But it is not humanly possible for several thousand people to be made one; it is only possible by the Holy Spirit’s energy and infilling. Just think of it – they were all so different and there were so many of them, but when they were filled with the Spirit “all the believers were one in heart and mind” – what a miracle!
There was a recognition of the lordship of Christ. When they were filled with the Holy Spirit they no longer regarded their property as their own (verse 32). What they really said was, ‘All that I am and have is not mine, but His. I am under His sovereignty, His lordship. My loved ones, my house, my money are all His; so I must use these things in the way that He chooses.’
There was true Christian fellowship and generosity (verse 32) – “they shared everything they had”. As Christians we are brought into a new relationship with God and with one another, and we share in common all God’s provisions. The generosity of these believers showed the reality of their fellowship; they also provided for the poor and needy (verses 34-37), and all this shows us that the filling with the Spirit makes Christians tender-hearted and large-hearted.
There was beauty in their lives and characters. Verse 33 says that “much grace was upon them all” – compare Psalm 90:17.

How does the filling with the Holy Spirit come?

What are the conditions? We could mention the need for cleansing (Psalm 51:10); the need to desire this (John 7:37); and the requirement of faith (Luke 11:13) – but think about the following:

They were moving along in the will of God. The Lord had commanded them to preach the gospel, and this is what they were doing – compare verses 29, 31 and 33.
They sought the Lord in earnest, intercessory prayer. It was “after they prayed….” that the blessing came (verse 31).

THE SIN OF ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA

(Acts 5:1-11)

The early Church was growing rapidly and it is not surprising that we read of the Devil being on the warpath! He was doing all in his power to stop it! And so he entered into these two people, and what a tragedy it was that they yielded to his devilish suggestions! It is not surprising that after God’s judgment fell on Ananias and Sapphira, “great fear seized the whole church” (verse 11). It was enough to fill everybody with a sense of awe, as it would today if such a thing were to happen. This incident divides into four sections:-

The Sin of Ananias and Sapphira

What was their sin? It must have been great when we think how God judged it. These two were husband and wife and were known and probably respected in the church. They had witnessed the power of God’s blessing; they were not outsiders or enemies of the church – they were a hindrance inside it! From Acts 4:36-37 we learn of the generosity of these early Christians, particularly that of Barnabas. Ananias and Sapphira were impressed by this and quite genuinely wanted to play their part, so they decided to sell a property or some land and give the money to the apostles for the Lord’s work. So far, so good – but then we read that Satan tempted them (look at verses 1-4). They sold the possession for (say) £500 and gave (say) £400 to the Lord; then having done this they pretended they had given all of it. They need not have given anything; they could have kept it all (look at verse 4); but they kept back part, and fell into the sin of pretence, of hypocrisy, of deception, of insincerity, of lying, and of unreality. It was a sin against God (verses 3-4), and of course it was a sin against the church because it affected the church’s work. It was conceived in their hearts, where all sin begins (verse 3). They opened the door to the Devil; it was premeditated, deliberate, intentional and planned; husband and wife were partners in deception. They need not have succumbed to the temptation (see 1 Corinthians 10:13), but so far as we know their sin was unconfessed, unforsaken and unjudged by themselves. What a pity they did not act on Proverbs 28:13 and 1 John 1:9!

The Courage of Peter

This is brought out in verses 3, 4, 8 and 9. Notice that Peter was not responsible for the judgment which fell on Ananias and Sapphira; that was God’s doing. All Peter did was to unmask their sham, to uncover their hypocrisy and to display their insincerity, unreality and deception – their lying; and he did this because God gave him special discernment to recognise the true state of things. Mighty things were happening in the church and Satan was doing his best to upset the work of God; so it took great courage for Peter to act as he did.

But in Acts 4:29-30 we read that at this special prayer meeting they had prayed that they might have courage to do God’s will, and now God was answering their prayers. A true servant of the Lord has to be willing and available to the Lord for whatever ministry He dictates, and sometimes he has to speak solemn words and to challenge deeply things that are wrong in the church. For being utterly faithful to the Lord, Jeremiah, Daniel and the apostles landed up in prison, John was banished to the Isle of Patmos – and Stephen was martyred. Today many around the world are displaying the same courage as they face the enemies of the Faith.

The Judgment of God

This is clearly stated in verses 5-6 and 9-10. Notice again that this was not Peter’s action but God’s. How terribly solemn it is to read of the way in which Ananias and Sapphira were judged for their sin! If God judged His people today in the same way for sin in their lives – for insincerity, hypocrisy, lying, pretence – how many would fall down dead? It is so easy to profess more than we possess, to make out that we are holier than we really are – look up Matthew 15:7-8. Why did God’s judgment fall like this? Maybe because it was the first appearance of this sin in the church; maybe because it was to be a solemn warning to the church that God is not mocked and that He desires truth in the inner parts (Psalm 51:6); maybe it was done according to 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 1 Corinthians 11:28-32 – what John called “a sin that leads to death”. Does God work in this way now? Maybe He does; one thing is certain: we cannot, dare not, remove these verses from our Bible. They are there to warn, to instruct and lead us to walk carefully and humbly with God.

The Reaction of the people

What effect did this intervention of God have on the people? Well, there were two classes of people – believers and unbelievers. In each case they experienced “great fear” – as we learn from verses 5 and 11. A great sense of awe fell on them, a great sense of the presence and the power of God – look up and compare 1 Samuel 11:7; 2 Chronicles 14:14 and Proverbs 23:17. What is this fear? To the unbeliever it is the fear of God’s judgment – look up Hebrews 10:27 and 31. To the believer it is the fear of grieving the Holy Spirit and of securing God’s displeasure – look up Ephesians 4:30.

It is significant that when the sin of Ananias and Sapphira had been dealt with, and the offenders had been removed, God’s blessing came down – just read Acts 5:11-14!

APOSTOLIC VISION AND VOCATION

(Acts 5:12-28)

It was not easy to live and witness for Christ in the first century. In many places God’s servants were persecuted, humiliated, imprisoned and beaten because they were faithful to their Lord. In these verses, and particularly Acts 5:17-18, we read of the indignation of the Sadducees who “arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail”. While these servants of the Lord were in prison, however, the angel of the Lord at night opened the prison doors and brought them out, saying, “Go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life” (verses 19-20). We are basing our study on this commission, which had come from the exalted Lord, and which was conveyed to the apostles by the angel of the Lord. Incidentally, it is interesting to compare the ministry of angels with that of men: the angels are ministers of God who serve Him in His presence and wait to do His will; Spirit-filled men are also the servants of God and should be available to Him for whatever He wants. But angels have their ministry and men have theirs. The angels have their divinely appointed limitations; they can open prison doors and speak to the apostles but they cannot enter into the joy and privilege of preaching the gospel – that is the prerogative of sinners saved by grace, commissioned by the Lord and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Such was the immense privilege of the apostles, and we shall notice several things about these men and about the way they fulfilled their commission to “go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life”.

Their Authority

What did they do when the angel commanded them to go and preach? Verse 21 tells us: “At daybreak they entered the temple courts…and began to teach the people”. But what was their authority for doing this? Had they not been forbidden to speak of the Lord (Acts 4:18,20)? Their authority for preaching the gospel was the word and commission of the Lord Himself; and that is your authority and mine for doing the same glorious work (Matthew 28:18-20). It is not presumptuous for us to go to someone else and tell them the message of the gospel. We have divine authority for doing this – every Christian has! When D.L. Moody spoke to someone about Christ, he said, ‘Mind your own business!’ Moody’s reply was, ‘But this is my business!’ – and it is ours also.

Their Attitude

Verse 20 tells us that they were not only to “go” but they were to “stand” – in other words, ‘Take your stand!’ It denotes an open, bold confession. Let us ask the question then: Have we taken an open stand for the Lord where we live and work, or are we to some extent secret disciples (Matthew 10:23-33)? It is a costly business for Christians in every country to declare themselves openly on the Lord’s side and to bear faithful testimony to the Lord Jesus – however, look up Acts 5:40-42 and compare Daniel 11:32 (KJV second part)!

Their Audacity

Verse 20 tells us they were to speak; and as we have already noticed, they had in fact been forbidden to do so – compare Acts 4:18 and 5:27-28 – and by doing this they faced fury and the possibility of death! Indeed, they “filled Jerusalem” with their teaching. How we need this holy boldness! – for there are voices that forbid us to speak today – not necessarily the voices of rulers, priests, Sadduccees, or the enemies of the gospel (although this is a reality in many countries) – but the fear of man forbids us to speak for the Lord (Proverbs 29:25); a false respectability forbids us from speaking for the Lord; and an inconsistent life may forbid us too (Titus 1:16). What was it that gave the apostles such audacity?

First, they were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:20).

Second, they prayed for holy boldness (Acts 4:29); third, they were determined to obey God (Acts 5:29).

Their Audience

What was to be their congregation? Again in verse 20 we have the answer – they were to “tell the people” who would have been different nationally, socially, culturally. They were to preach the gospel to the common people, as Jesus did (Mark 12:37); to children (Luke 18:16); to young people (Matthew 19:16-22); to old people (John 3:4). Wherever there are people, there is our congregation. Salvation is for all who will come and receive Christ by faith, and we are charged with the responsibility and privilege of making this news known.

Their Announcement

What was to be their message? Verse 20 again tells us – “the full message of this new life”; or, as one paraphrase has it: ‘Tell the people all about this new life’; that is, about the Lord Jesus who is the life (John 14:6); who came to give us life (John 10:10); and in whom alone is eternal life (1 John 5:10-12). Notice also they were to tell the people “the full message” of the gospel. In other words, they were to proclaim “the whole will of God” (Acts 20:27). This is what is greatly needed today, and in verses 30-32 we are told some of the key words of this new life, the gospel:

“God” (2) ”Jesus” (3) Atonement (“Slew”) (4) Resurrection (implied)

(5) Exaltation (6) Repentance and forgiveness (7) The Holy Spirit.

What a message to proclaim! Are we doing it? Are we telling the people about our Saviour, and are we living in the enjoyment of the new life which God has commissioned us to proclaim?

SEVEN LESSONS FOR CHRISTIAN WORKERS

( Acts 5:17-39)

When reading Acts 5:17-39 we see that these verses contain some important lessons for anyone engaged in God’s service. Before considering these, notice that one of Luke’s favourite words is “filled” – compare Acts 4:31; Acts 5:17; Acts 5:28. How wonderful to be filled with the Holy Spirit! How awful to have Satan filling our hearts! How dangerous it may be to be filled with indignation! How glorious to be filled with the knowledge of Christ and His saving power.

Whenever God is truly working, the Devil will also be at work

Look at verses 17-18. We read again that these bold servants of the Lord Jesus experienced tremendous persecution; but what we want to notice particularly is that behind their persecution was the Devil himself. A great work of God was going on, so the Devil was on the warpath, as he always is when God works. If God is doing something, look out for Satan! It’s a fact that the more determined we are to pray, to preach the gospel and to glorify God, the more we shall have to face the Devil and the more we shall need grace to overcome his subtle and devastating work. So do not be dismayed if he is giving you a bad time as you serve the Lord. There are some Christians who do not have to worry about the Devil because they are lukewarm and half-hearted; and there are some churches that the Devil does not worry much because they are not getting on with the job. Be assured, though, that we need not be overcome by the Devil. By prayer and with heavenly wisdom we may be “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37); and as we resist Satan he will flee from us (James 4:7).

It is always safe to trust God when we are doing His will

Just see what verses 18-19 tell us. We may be put into prison. There are thousands of Christians in prison today, simply because they are Christians and have sought to be faithful to the Lord. But God is still able to perform miracles. In this case heavenly visitors came down at His command and broke open the prison doors; just as God sent one of His angels to release Peter from prison (Acts 12:5-16). The important thing when we are ‘in prison’ is to trust the Lord – look up Psalm 37:5-6. One missionary who was threatened by a gunman said, ‘You cannot fire that shot until the God whom I serve gives you permission!’ It was something like that with Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego (Daniel 3:16-18). Sometimes the trial of our faith brings more glory to God and more blessing to ourselves and to others than if we were not tried, so God lets us suffer for a while (Philippians 1:12). It is always safe to trust God! Paul and Silas proved this – look up Acts 16:19-36

We may still believe in and rejoice in the ministry of angels

Verses 19-21 tell us how, in this case, the angels were “ministering spirits” (Hebrews 1:14). But although the angels have a wonderful ministry entrusted to them, we have a far greater ministry. The angels await God’s orders and are ready to do His will, but are not entrusted with the immense privilege of preaching the gospel to sinners. That ministry is given to us, and what a rare privilege it is for a believer to go to an unbeliever and speak about the Lord Jesus who is able and willing to save all who will put their trust in Him!

We should obey God rather than men

It is easy to read these words in verse 29, but it must have taken a great deal of courage for these men to say this. How bold Peter and the others were! In spite of threats of imprisonment, and worse, they were determined to go on preaching the gospel – because the Lord had commissioned them to do just that. While they were forbidding Peter to preach, Peter was preaching to them! If only we had a little more of his courage, tenacity and concern for the lost!

God gives the Holy Spirit to those who obey Him

Notice this principle in verse 32:

When an unbeliever repents and believes on the Lord Jesus Christ, God gives him the Holy Spirit. In other words, when we obey the gospel the Holy Spirit is given to us (Acts 2:37-39).
When we, as believers, surrender to the Lord in complete obedience, He fills us and empowers us with the Holy Spirit. The measure in which God can fill us and empower us with the Holy Spirit depends on the measure of our obedience.
To be effective witnesses for the Lord of Glory we must know the partnership of the Holy Spirit

In verse 32 Peter said, “We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit”. This surely is the great lesson of the book of Acts. A witness is someone who shows forth Christ and talks about Him. A witness is a demonstration of Christ, a sample of the grace of God, a living human illustration of what God can do with a man or a woman. We must surrender to the Lord all that we are and have; but we must receive from the Lord all that He offers to us in the person and power of the Holy Spirit.

When God initiates a work He will prosper and complete it: it cannot be overthrown

We learn this from verses 38 and 39 – and what comfort these verses bring to us! We are reminded of our Lord’s words in Matthew 16:18. People tell us that the Church is failing, and that it will not last much longer. What stupidity! The Lord will not fail, and He is the builder – all will be well (Philippians 1:6)!

Come LET us worship together!

SALVATION

VISSION

MISSION

Y.E.G.M CHRONICLES

HOPE IN CHRIST

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chapter 1

THE TRIUMPH OF FAITH

THE COURAGE OF FAITH – GIDEON

THE COURAGE OF FAITH

THE COLLAPSE OF FAITH

THE COMMITMENT OF FAITH

THE STATEMENT OF FAITH

THE PRAYER OF FAITH

THE EXERCISE OF FAITH

THE AUDACITY OF FAITH

THE PERFECTER OF FAITH

Chapter 2

THE SUBMISSION OF FAITH

THE GLORY OF HIS PERSON

THE MIRACLE OF HIS BIRTH

THE MEANING OF HIS BAPTISM

THE REALITY OF HIS TEMPTATION

THE SPLENDOUR OF HIS TRANSFIGURATION

THE AUTHORITY OF HIS TEACHING

THE MESSAGE OF HIS MIRACLES

Chapter 3

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HIS DEATH

THE TRIUMPH OF HIS RESURRECTION

THE NECESSITY OF HIS ASCENSION

THE GIFT OF HIS SPIRIT

THE CERTAINTY OF HIS RETURN

THE BRIDEGROOM AND HIS BRIDE

PERSONAL COMMUNION WITH THE LORD

THE NEGLECTED VINEYARD

SITTING DOWN IN HIS SHADE

THE LITTLE FOXES THAT SPOIL THE VINES

THE WORK OF FAITH – NOAH

THE PERIL OF SPIRITUAL APATHY

LEANING ON OUR BELOVED

FATHER’S LETTER TO HIS SON

Chapter4

AN AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL PEN-PICTURE

THE GOSPEL IN MINIATURE

PAUL’S CONVERSION:

HYMENAEUS AND ALEXANDER

Chapter5

HOW, WHEN AND WHERE TO PRAY

TEN QUALIFICATIONS FOR LEADERSHIP

THE CREED OF THE EARLY CHURCH

A GOOD MINISTER OF CHRIST JESUS

A CHRISTIAN’S SPIRITUAL EXERCISE

A WORD TO THE WOMEN!

Chapter6

ADVICE TO A MAN OF GOD

TIMOTHY, PAUL’S DEAR SON

GOD’S GIFT TO EVERY BELIEVER

SALVATION

HOW TO GAIN GOD’S APPROVAL

GOD’S SOLID FOUNDATION STANDS FIRM

THE PARABLE OF THE LARGE HOUSE

THE OBEDIENCE OF FAITH – ABRAHAM

THE TRIAL OF FAITH – ABRAHAM

Chapter7

A SOLEMN CHARGE TO MINISTERS

A GREAT CHRISTIAN’S DYING TESTIMONY

GOD’S WAY OF DELIVERANCE

THE PRAYER FOR A WICKED CITY

THE PRAYER FOR SPECIAL GUIDANCE

THE PRAYER FOR TRUE PROSPERITY

THE PRAYER FOR DIVINE QUICKENING

THE PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL ILLUMINATION

Chapter8

THE PRAYER FOR SEARCHING OF HEART

THE PRAYER FOR GOD TO REND THE HEAVENS

THE PRAYER FOR DELIVERANCE FROM TROUBLE

SIMEON’S PRAYER FOR RELEASE

THE FAMILY PRAYER, OR “THE LORD’S PRAYER”

THE LORD’S GREAT PRAYER OF INTERCESSION