Day 47
1 Timothy 1:1-11 NIV
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, 2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer 4 nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God's work–which is by faith.5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.6 Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk. 7 They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm. 8 We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.9 We also know that law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious; for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers,10 for adulterers and perverts, for slave traders and liars and perjurers–and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine 11 that conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.
Today we begin the letter (Epistle) to Timothy. It doesn't take long to see and realize the love that Paul had for Timothy. Paul begins this letter with "to Timothy my true son in the faith". Paul begins his writing to his "son in the faith" with an exhortation to continue striving for teaching the truth of God's Word in love. From the comments here in verse 3 we can see that Timothy was left with the Authority of the Apostle to assure that the Ephesians (church at Ephesus) were receiving proper teaching. From Paul's account it becomes apparent that false teachers were trying to slip in and point people back to the law rather than the grace and freedom purchased by Christ on the Cross. Paul declares that what they are doing and teaching is now contrary to sound doctrinal teaching because God's work is by faith and not works or lists of rules. Paul states that the law "is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels" he continues with quite a list but he is saying that the law is for those who have not received forgiveness and turned to God in true repentance. This must have been most difficult for Paul of all people haven been trained by the best of the best, have been a Pharisee. Paul had to have spent a great deal of time and prayer before he became able to understand the true purpose of the law was to show man our hopelessness and our need for a heavenly savior. After Paul's experience on the Damascus road he went into an extended period of training, time alone with God where he was taught the truth of the Word and the message he is now presenting here to Timothy. Paul having been one of the chief persecutors or Christians and chief among law givers certainly knew what it was to be transformed by the love of God. He wanted this same transformation for all believers and he desired to stop those who were preaching contrary or conflicting gospels that were creating much confusion. Timothy became one of his primary students and was quickly trained and put in a leadership role in Ephesus. Now the teacher is writing to his student to encourage him to continue in doing what is right regardless of the opposition he is facing. This message rings just as true for you and I today. If we aren't careful we can grown cold in our walk with God and begin to walk in a more formal way before him. God desires relationship with all of us and when we are walking in communion with Him we can be sure that His Spirit will lead us. No one can create a list of rights and wrongs that would fully encompass what we should and shouldn't do. It is the Holy Spirit that writes the Word on our hearts and when we take a misstep He corrects us. Imagine with me today why a loving God would have dared send His only Son to a people who had rejected Him and His representatives in every way. The only answer to this question is absolute love, a love like we cannot understand. The bible says "God is love" and daily I see this love poured out in my life, don't you? I am so thankful that He came, lived, and died for me. Thankful that He rose from the grave in victory and that I am risen with Him, "seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus". Thank Him today for this love!
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Daily Reading February 25 2010 from 2 Thessalonians 3 NIV
Day 46
2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 NIV
1 Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith.3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance. 6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you,8 nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you.9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow.
10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “If a man will not work, he shall not eat.” 11 We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies.12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right. 14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother. 16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. 17 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Keep Doing What is Right!
Today's message is very clear, do not be idle. Do not quit working toward the goal. Paul begins by expressing the importance of the message of the gospel being preached. He then begins a warning against idleness, against tiring or ceasing from this labor of love. He warns that some have become idle and quit progressing and pressing on toward the mark and warns that they should stay away from these idle men. The Apostle then points to the example that he and his team had provided when they were present with this church, how they stayed busy laboring in order to be an example for this church. He mentions that they didn't require financial support but rather worked to support themselves so as to not be a burden and furthermore encourage these believers into service. He says "we hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies." Many times when we settle into idleness we begin to allow the flesh to control. We begin to be critical of those who are working and busy ourselves in other peoples work. When we remain active in doing the Lord's work and will we do not have time to worry about someone elses methods or the results they are having. He then gives direction for how to deal with an idle believer; take not of him, do not associate with him, but do not acts as though he is your enemy because he is still a brother.This is certainly an area we, the church, need to be aware of. It is true in most any church that only about 10% of the people do 90% of the work. Many have burned out or become convinced that they have done there share. The Apostle is trying to make it very clear that there is no retirement for the believer. You are never too old and never too tired to continue to press in to the Lord and share the gospel message with others. Take inventory of yourself. Are you working or idle? Are you in the minority, those doing most of the work in your local church or are you simply a spectator doing no more than is required of you. If you find that you are in the majority, the idle, it is time to get active, wake up God has a work for you to do. We are told that the harvest is plenteous but the workers are few. Many times we have the workers but find them to be unmotivated or unwilling to use their talents for various other reasons. God will use what you have to give and multiply your effort. If you are in the 10%, those busy for the Lord do not grow weary or bitter. Do not get the attitude that without me they can't do it. Don't get a controlling spirit but rather give God the glory. It is He that is at work in you making you a successful motivated worker for the Kingdom's sake. It is not our might, power, but God's spirit! Ask God today what can I do and then go to it, get to WORK! There is plenty to do.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 NIV
1 Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith.3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance. 6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you,8 nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you.9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow.
10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “If a man will not work, he shall not eat.” 11 We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies.12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right. 14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother. 16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. 17 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Keep Doing What is Right!
Today's message is very clear, do not be idle. Do not quit working toward the goal. Paul begins by expressing the importance of the message of the gospel being preached. He then begins a warning against idleness, against tiring or ceasing from this labor of love. He warns that some have become idle and quit progressing and pressing on toward the mark and warns that they should stay away from these idle men. The Apostle then points to the example that he and his team had provided when they were present with this church, how they stayed busy laboring in order to be an example for this church. He mentions that they didn't require financial support but rather worked to support themselves so as to not be a burden and furthermore encourage these believers into service. He says "we hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies." Many times when we settle into idleness we begin to allow the flesh to control. We begin to be critical of those who are working and busy ourselves in other peoples work. When we remain active in doing the Lord's work and will we do not have time to worry about someone elses methods or the results they are having. He then gives direction for how to deal with an idle believer; take not of him, do not associate with him, but do not acts as though he is your enemy because he is still a brother.This is certainly an area we, the church, need to be aware of. It is true in most any church that only about 10% of the people do 90% of the work. Many have burned out or become convinced that they have done there share. The Apostle is trying to make it very clear that there is no retirement for the believer. You are never too old and never too tired to continue to press in to the Lord and share the gospel message with others. Take inventory of yourself. Are you working or idle? Are you in the minority, those doing most of the work in your local church or are you simply a spectator doing no more than is required of you. If you find that you are in the majority, the idle, it is time to get active, wake up God has a work for you to do. We are told that the harvest is plenteous but the workers are few. Many times we have the workers but find them to be unmotivated or unwilling to use their talents for various other reasons. God will use what you have to give and multiply your effort. If you are in the 10%, those busy for the Lord do not grow weary or bitter. Do not get the attitude that without me they can't do it. Don't get a controlling spirit but rather give God the glory. It is He that is at work in you making you a successful motivated worker for the Kingdom's sake. It is not our might, power, but God's spirit! Ask God today what can I do and then go to it, get to WORK! There is plenty to do.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Daily Reading February 24 2010 from 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 NIV
Day 45
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 NIV
13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Eternal Encouragement!
I like that phrase "eternal encouragement", Paul was an encourager and it becomes more and more evident as we read passages like these to the Thessalonian church. Not only did the Apostle encourage he constantly mentioned those who brought him encouragement. Individuals such as Onesimus, Epaphras, Barnabas, and then churches also that encouraged him such as this very church at Thessalonica. When Paul was in prison there were times where he indicates that many had forsaken and rejected him so he was always very careful to mention those who had stayed true, they were his brothers and thus his encouragers. Encouragers are motivated by love for others. Those who can look through much of our negative qualities and see what we are inside and what we are destined to be in Christ. They are those who see diamonds rather than lumps of coal. They seem to always be able to find some kind of good in any situation and in just about any person. Why shouldn't we be encouraged? We are all examples of what God can do with a submitted life. If you are like me you seemed hopeless and unworthy. In fact I was unworthy and completely hopeless until I found some encouragers who looked through my past and saw what God could do. I still have many undesirable traits but God has delivered me from much. Along the way He has continued to send encouragment along through committed believers who were willing to share His love with the unlovable. It is for this reason that I have no other option but to find others that I can pour love and hope into and watch what God does in these submitted lives. As Paul says here the ultimate encourager is Christ Himself who alone was able to bring ETERNAL ENCOURAGEMENT to fallen man. Praise God! Find someone you can pour into, someone who even seems hopeless, and share the loving encouragement of Christ.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 NIV
13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Eternal Encouragement!
I like that phrase "eternal encouragement", Paul was an encourager and it becomes more and more evident as we read passages like these to the Thessalonian church. Not only did the Apostle encourage he constantly mentioned those who brought him encouragement. Individuals such as Onesimus, Epaphras, Barnabas, and then churches also that encouraged him such as this very church at Thessalonica. When Paul was in prison there were times where he indicates that many had forsaken and rejected him so he was always very careful to mention those who had stayed true, they were his brothers and thus his encouragers. Encouragers are motivated by love for others. Those who can look through much of our negative qualities and see what we are inside and what we are destined to be in Christ. They are those who see diamonds rather than lumps of coal. They seem to always be able to find some kind of good in any situation and in just about any person. Why shouldn't we be encouraged? We are all examples of what God can do with a submitted life. If you are like me you seemed hopeless and unworthy. In fact I was unworthy and completely hopeless until I found some encouragers who looked through my past and saw what God could do. I still have many undesirable traits but God has delivered me from much. Along the way He has continued to send encouragment along through committed believers who were willing to share His love with the unlovable. It is for this reason that I have no other option but to find others that I can pour love and hope into and watch what God does in these submitted lives. As Paul says here the ultimate encourager is Christ Himself who alone was able to bring ETERNAL ENCOURAGEMENT to fallen man. Praise God! Find someone you can pour into, someone who even seems hopeless, and share the loving encouragement of Christ.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Daily Reading February 23 2010 from 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 NIV
Day 44
2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 NIV
1 Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. 5 Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? 6 And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
The Coming King!
In today's passage Paul is addressing an apparent fear that Jesus has already come or might come and catch some unaware. There was apparently enough fear of being left behind that the Apostle felt the need to write a second letter and address this misconception. Paul begins today's reading with "now, bretheren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering to Him" so Paul is addressing a concern of many of the people he continues in verse 2 with do not be shaken or troubled in mind "as though the day of Christ has come. Paul then begins to give some signs of His coming so they can have peace and not live in worry about being left. Growing up I can remember this being an issue for me. I can remember night where I had trouble going to sleep for fear that I might not be ready. While this isn't completely unhealthy my view of God was flawed just as these people. I was saved as these believers are and we are not told to live in fear but faith. The day of His coming shouldn't produce dread and fear but rather excitement and yearning. Sure we want time for many of our loved ones to be saved but there is no question that upon His coming we will experience great joy. Paul then begins to discuss the coming of the Anti-Christ, he refers to Him as the "son of perdition." This son of perdition will do everything in his power to mimic God and deceive people into thinking he is God. The Holy Spirit is mentioned here as the restrainer. The prayers of the church keep evil from being unleashed upon this earth, but when the church is taken out of the way a terrible day will ensue. Best before we get too carried away Paul says in verse 8 that "the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming" yes this evil one will come but Christ will come again in power and with little effort take back all that belongs to God. We as believers do not need to fear this enemy because we know our future! We know that there is a very real and eternal heaven and even if we happen to live til the end when Jesus returns we will indeed know the joy of His return. Rejoice today because the King is coming. We need to live like He is coming tomorrow and save as many as we can while there is time.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 NIV
1 Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. 5 Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? 6 And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
The Coming King!
In today's passage Paul is addressing an apparent fear that Jesus has already come or might come and catch some unaware. There was apparently enough fear of being left behind that the Apostle felt the need to write a second letter and address this misconception. Paul begins today's reading with "now, bretheren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering to Him" so Paul is addressing a concern of many of the people he continues in verse 2 with do not be shaken or troubled in mind "as though the day of Christ has come. Paul then begins to give some signs of His coming so they can have peace and not live in worry about being left. Growing up I can remember this being an issue for me. I can remember night where I had trouble going to sleep for fear that I might not be ready. While this isn't completely unhealthy my view of God was flawed just as these people. I was saved as these believers are and we are not told to live in fear but faith. The day of His coming shouldn't produce dread and fear but rather excitement and yearning. Sure we want time for many of our loved ones to be saved but there is no question that upon His coming we will experience great joy. Paul then begins to discuss the coming of the Anti-Christ, he refers to Him as the "son of perdition." This son of perdition will do everything in his power to mimic God and deceive people into thinking he is God. The Holy Spirit is mentioned here as the restrainer. The prayers of the church keep evil from being unleashed upon this earth, but when the church is taken out of the way a terrible day will ensue. Best before we get too carried away Paul says in verse 8 that "the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming" yes this evil one will come but Christ will come again in power and with little effort take back all that belongs to God. We as believers do not need to fear this enemy because we know our future! We know that there is a very real and eternal heaven and even if we happen to live til the end when Jesus returns we will indeed know the joy of His return. Rejoice today because the King is coming. We need to live like He is coming tomorrow and save as many as we can while there is time.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Daily Reading February 22 2010 from 2 Thess. 1:1-12 NIV
Day 43
2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 NIV
1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ;2 Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.3 We are bound to give thanks to God always to you, brethren, even as it is meet, for that your faith growth exceedingly, and the love of each one of you all toward one another aboundeth;4 so that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions which ye endure;5 which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God; to the end that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:6 if so be that it is a righteous thing with God to recompense affliction to them that afflict you,7 and to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire,8 rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus:9 who shall suffer punishment, even eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of his might,10 when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be marvelled at in all them that believed (because our testimony unto you was believed) in that day.11 To which end we also pray always for you, that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfil every desire of goodness and every work of faith, with power;12 that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Distinction between believers and unbelievers!
Today we begin Paul's second letter to the people of Thessalonica. There is much debate about the time this book was written but many believe it was written almost immediately after Paul's first Letter (Epistle) to these people. The time of its writing is certainly not all that important to us just its meaning and what we can glean from it. We know that all scriptures is of great value because it is part of the life changing, powerful Word of God. Paul begins this letter like most that he writes with greetings and compliments. He notes the growth of their faith as well as the measure of their love for one another. It seems he again attributes these qualities to their persecutions. These people are under intense scrutiny and persecution and it has caused the church to band together and become the united church that God intended. Once again as is so often evident in God's Word, what the enemy means for evil God turns and uses it for good. Paul goes on to pray for them that they can continue to endure the affliction and then mentions the coming judgment for those who are their enemies and therefore enemies of God and the gospel. He states that they will "suffer punishment, even eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of His might, when He shall come to be glorified in His saints." Paul again draws on a reference to the Lord's return and continues to have them keep their focus on the promise of eternity both for those who do good and those who commit these evil acts of persecution. Paul concludes these verses with a prayer that God will count these individuals worthy of their calling, and that He will complete the work of their faith with power. Paul mentions that Christ is being glorified in these people and in this church because they have chosen to remain in Christ rather than become bitter and seek revenge against those who persecute them. The bible constantly points to a distinction between believer and unbeliever. We are constantly reminded that God's Ways are higher and we have been called to higher ways in Him. We are reminded when we read passages like this today that we are to pray for our enemies, our accusers, and even those who might seek to kill us for our faith. When all is said and done it is God who will avenge the innocent blood of those who have called on Him. It is God that will pronounce judgment on both the evil and the good. All we are called to do is to stay in Christ and pray for those who are deceived into trying to live without Him. Our challenge is to not behave like the world to be separate. To forgive quickly so we are acceptable to Him who we are living for. Today again we are being challenged to examine ourselves and see whether or not we have risen above the old behaviors, whether or not we are able to stay in Christ even in the face of hardships and persecutions. Can your fruit be readily seen even at a distance? Are you glorifying God in your every day living?
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 NIV
1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ;2 Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.3 We are bound to give thanks to God always to you, brethren, even as it is meet, for that your faith growth exceedingly, and the love of each one of you all toward one another aboundeth;4 so that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions which ye endure;5 which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God; to the end that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:6 if so be that it is a righteous thing with God to recompense affliction to them that afflict you,7 and to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire,8 rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus:9 who shall suffer punishment, even eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of his might,10 when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be marvelled at in all them that believed (because our testimony unto you was believed) in that day.11 To which end we also pray always for you, that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfil every desire of goodness and every work of faith, with power;12 that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Distinction between believers and unbelievers!
Today we begin Paul's second letter to the people of Thessalonica. There is much debate about the time this book was written but many believe it was written almost immediately after Paul's first Letter (Epistle) to these people. The time of its writing is certainly not all that important to us just its meaning and what we can glean from it. We know that all scriptures is of great value because it is part of the life changing, powerful Word of God. Paul begins this letter like most that he writes with greetings and compliments. He notes the growth of their faith as well as the measure of their love for one another. It seems he again attributes these qualities to their persecutions. These people are under intense scrutiny and persecution and it has caused the church to band together and become the united church that God intended. Once again as is so often evident in God's Word, what the enemy means for evil God turns and uses it for good. Paul goes on to pray for them that they can continue to endure the affliction and then mentions the coming judgment for those who are their enemies and therefore enemies of God and the gospel. He states that they will "suffer punishment, even eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of His might, when He shall come to be glorified in His saints." Paul again draws on a reference to the Lord's return and continues to have them keep their focus on the promise of eternity both for those who do good and those who commit these evil acts of persecution. Paul concludes these verses with a prayer that God will count these individuals worthy of their calling, and that He will complete the work of their faith with power. Paul mentions that Christ is being glorified in these people and in this church because they have chosen to remain in Christ rather than become bitter and seek revenge against those who persecute them. The bible constantly points to a distinction between believer and unbeliever. We are constantly reminded that God's Ways are higher and we have been called to higher ways in Him. We are reminded when we read passages like this today that we are to pray for our enemies, our accusers, and even those who might seek to kill us for our faith. When all is said and done it is God who will avenge the innocent blood of those who have called on Him. It is God that will pronounce judgment on both the evil and the good. All we are called to do is to stay in Christ and pray for those who are deceived into trying to live without Him. Our challenge is to not behave like the world to be separate. To forgive quickly so we are acceptable to Him who we are living for. Today again we are being challenged to examine ourselves and see whether or not we have risen above the old behaviors, whether or not we are able to stay in Christ even in the face of hardships and persecutions. Can your fruit be readily seen even at a distance? Are you glorifying God in your every day living?
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Monday, February 22, 2010
Daily Reading February 21 2010 from 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 NIV
Day 42
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28
12 Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. 16 Be joyful always;17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not put out the Spirit's fire;20 do not treat prophecies with contempt.21 Test everything. Hold on to the good. 22 Avoid every kind of evil. 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it. 25 Brothers, pray for us.26 Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. 27 I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
Closing Remarks!
It is obvious from today's reading that Paul is bringing this letter to a close. He uses several brief statements to give final instructions to this beloved church. Among Paul's admonishments they are told respect those over them in the Lord, live in peace, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone, be joyful always, pray continually, always give thanks, do not quench the spirit, do not treat the prophecies with contempt, test everything, hold on to good, and hold on to evil. This is quite a summary of commands. The first section of commands verses 12-15 are commands in relating to the treatment of one another while verses 16-22 are in reference to spiritual things. Paul again reminds them of the need to remain in faith and always be prepared for the coming of the Lord. Then he concludes with make sure all brothers read this letter and may God's grace be with you. These letters are so vital for us to study because they are directed to the church, the New Testament church. While reading these passages we not only see the heart of the Apostle Paul but we also see the struggles of these churches. These struggles should be extremely helpful to us today as they were to these very early churches.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28
12 Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. 16 Be joyful always;17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not put out the Spirit's fire;20 do not treat prophecies with contempt.21 Test everything. Hold on to the good. 22 Avoid every kind of evil. 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it. 25 Brothers, pray for us.26 Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. 27 I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
Closing Remarks!
It is obvious from today's reading that Paul is bringing this letter to a close. He uses several brief statements to give final instructions to this beloved church. Among Paul's admonishments they are told respect those over them in the Lord, live in peace, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone, be joyful always, pray continually, always give thanks, do not quench the spirit, do not treat the prophecies with contempt, test everything, hold on to good, and hold on to evil. This is quite a summary of commands. The first section of commands verses 12-15 are commands in relating to the treatment of one another while verses 16-22 are in reference to spiritual things. Paul again reminds them of the need to remain in faith and always be prepared for the coming of the Lord. Then he concludes with make sure all brothers read this letter and may God's grace be with you. These letters are so vital for us to study because they are directed to the church, the New Testament church. While reading these passages we not only see the heart of the Apostle Paul but we also see the struggles of these churches. These struggles should be extremely helpful to us today as they were to these very early churches.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Daily Reading February 20 2010 from 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 NIV
Day 41
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
1 Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you,2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.5 You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self‑controlled.7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night.8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self‑controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.10 He died for us so that, whether
we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Sons of the Light!
Paul begins this section by writing about the timing of the coming of the Lord. We know from other scripture that no man knows the day or the hour though many have tried to predict the exact date. Most recently we have been hearing the date 2012 used as a possible date and time. Years ago it was 1988 when a man named Edgar Whisenant wrote of the 88 reasons why Jesus would return for the church in 1988. Later after his prediction didn't come true he gave 89 reasons why He would return in 1989, needless to say Whisenant found many less eager ears in 1989 after bring proven wrong in 1988. Since just shortly after Jesus ascended to heaven there has been talk of his return with many predictions as to when. While we cannot know the exact date and time we can understand the times. As Paul writes here we shouldn't be surprised by the coming of the Lord, in other words we should have an understanding of the nearness of His coming. We are not in darkness but rather we are children of light, of the day. Paul says in verse 6 "let us be alert and self-controlled" we belong to the day so we should be self-controlled. Paul goes on in verse 8 "let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and hope of salvation as a helmet. Are you living in hope, faith, and love? Are you trusting God? Are you walking in love? Are you renewing your mind on a daily basis? We have this great hope because Jesus came, overcame, died and arose. We can take courage because He lived the perfect life and became the sacrifice for our sins. Our challenge today is to stay in the light. Many circumstances can bring us down and cause us to doubt, lose hope, or waiver in our faith. But when we choose to walk in the love of Christ He will cause us to prevail even in the most difficult of times. Take courage God is in control.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
1 Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you,2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.5 You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self‑controlled.7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night.8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self‑controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.10 He died for us so that, whether
we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Sons of the Light!
Paul begins this section by writing about the timing of the coming of the Lord. We know from other scripture that no man knows the day or the hour though many have tried to predict the exact date. Most recently we have been hearing the date 2012 used as a possible date and time. Years ago it was 1988 when a man named Edgar Whisenant wrote of the 88 reasons why Jesus would return for the church in 1988. Later after his prediction didn't come true he gave 89 reasons why He would return in 1989, needless to say Whisenant found many less eager ears in 1989 after bring proven wrong in 1988. Since just shortly after Jesus ascended to heaven there has been talk of his return with many predictions as to when. While we cannot know the exact date and time we can understand the times. As Paul writes here we shouldn't be surprised by the coming of the Lord, in other words we should have an understanding of the nearness of His coming. We are not in darkness but rather we are children of light, of the day. Paul says in verse 6 "let us be alert and self-controlled" we belong to the day so we should be self-controlled. Paul goes on in verse 8 "let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and hope of salvation as a helmet. Are you living in hope, faith, and love? Are you trusting God? Are you walking in love? Are you renewing your mind on a daily basis? We have this great hope because Jesus came, overcame, died and arose. We can take courage because He lived the perfect life and became the sacrifice for our sins. Our challenge today is to stay in the light. Many circumstances can bring us down and cause us to doubt, lose hope, or waiver in our faith. But when we choose to walk in the love of Christ He will cause us to prevail even in the most difficult of times. Take courage God is in control.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Saturday, February 20, 2010
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