Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 39,40 and Matthew 16.
We read of Jesus exhorting the disciples to"take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees."
These 2 groups basically make up the Jewish religious "ruling class" in that time. The Sadducees were the upper class elite whereas the Pharisees were more associated with the common man. The council or Sanhedrin comprised mainly of Sadducees and a minority of Pharisees.
In general, the Pharisees gave equal weight to oral traditions, a belief which they exploited having more influence with the "ground" and also that which Jesus struck out against (c.f. Mat 23). The Sadducees on the other hand believed only in the authority of the Scriptures (primarily the Torah or what we refer to as the Pentateuch - first 5 books of OT) but denied the eternal nature of the spirit and the resurrection (Mat 22:23; Mar 12:18; Luk 20:27) and the existence of spiritual beings (Act 23:8).
Thus from a spiritual/religious stand point, the "leaven" or as the disciples came to realise later, the doctrine of these 2 groups, represented all that which was contrary to the teachings of Christ.
Denying the eternal nature of the spirit basically makes a mockery of what God had ordained Jesus for! Why else would God be so concerned for the salvation of man even to the point of giving His Son? While the part of the Sadducee doctrine spoke rightly of the free will of man, it goes to the extreme of removing God out of the equation altogether. A loose paganistic equivalent would be that of the Greek Stoics. (c.f. Act 17:18)
Yet the bible clearly teaches that without God, man is lost! (c.f. Jer 10:23; Pro 14:12; 16:25) God is not a "touch and go" Being, leaving man to struggle on his own but continues to watch over him, admittedly not in similar fashion throughout history, but ever present, ever working, ever abiding! (c.f. Mat 5:45; Mat 28:20; Rom 8:28; 1Co 10:13; 2Co 1:3,4, etc)
The Pharisees on the other hand represented, in a way a more despicable attitude, so prevalent in the "Christian" world at large today, in that of form without function. Worldliness in the cloak of godliness. Wolves in sheep's clothing!
And why leaven? Because just as a little leaven (or yeast), makes the dough double or more in size - such is the multiplier effect of teachings. In the good way, Jesus used it to describe the spread of the gospel (Mat 13:33), but more often, in a bad way, such was the speed and extent of false teaching (c.f. 1Co 5:7.8; Gal 5:9 ref also Gal 1:6).
Let us, perhaps more so today beware and continue to stay vigilant to the leaven of false teaching, and let the Word of Christ dwell in us richly (Col 3:16) that we may finally lay hold to our heavenly reward.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. ~ Romans 8:7,8
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Doctrines of Man
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 37,38 and Matthew 15.
Verses 8 and 9 in Matthew 15 are very telling and sobering verses. Jesus was quoting from Isaiah 29:13. The rebuke in context is directed at the Pharisees, but as we read of the rest of the bible, we note that the danger can indeed emerge from within the church and the denominational world at large. Paul warned of people who would not hold on to sound doctrine "...but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers..." (2Ti 4:3)
Peter warned extensively and bitingly of such false teachers who "allure through the lusts of the flesh" (2Pe 2:18 and overall the entire chpt 2)
We see and hear all over the "Christian" world today, all proclaiming the name the God yet denying the Lord through their froward teachings. It saddens us that the name of God is poorly spoken of especially in the face of the much prevalent "prosperity gospel". Truly as Peter wrote, these are the very people who "...by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of." (2Pe 2:2b)
A quick note on worship. I believe far too often, we ourselves show a "Phariseetic" streak. The Pharisees used worship like a "faith pageant". As Jesus said of them, " But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues," (Mat 23:5,6)
Why do we worship? What is our attitude in worship? To whom is our worship truly directed to? Brethren, worship is TO GOD! We are the PARTICIPANTS! Only God is the audience.
Have you heard people say "Oh I don't enjoy this service", "I don't get much out of the sermon", "why is the service so long", etc, etc.
Brethren, worship is a PRIVILEGE. In our comfortable, affluent society, we sometimes really don't see how BLESSED we are to be able to serve God and worship Him in such a safe and comfortable environment.
We come to God every Sunday, with humble, contrite hearts ready to give Him glory. In every aspect!
We dress decently and respectfully. Worship is a FORMAL occasion. Not some casual get together, chit chat session.
We quiet down our minds and focus on God. It's good to mingle and catch up but why not do so after worship? God deserves our full attention!
We participate eagerly and earnestly. We concentrate on the prayer that we may truly say amen to the prayer. We sing loudly, fervently, giving praise to our Father in heaven and encouraging one another. We take the Lord's Supper reverently in sober meditation, mindful of the great sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We give cheerfully as God has prospered us and not like we are giving spare change. We listen to the sermon actively, taking notes and turning to the Word of God as It is referenced, ruminate and digest and apply to our lives.
And at the end, we pray in our minds that our service had been pleasing and acceptable to God and only Him. And we go away rejoicing that we have had the privilege to come to Him and gather as a family of God, that we have done as He had commanded. That alone motivates us to come eagerly every Sunday together, nothing else should matter!
I'm afraid yes, at times, we too allow the doctrines of man, in his selfish, self-serving way to get in the path of true worship.
Brethren, let us be careful not to fall into the trap of serving ourselves while professing God, but to render our true obedience to the Lord.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
In Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. ~ Romans 8:7,8
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 37,38 and Matthew 15.
Verses 8 and 9 in Matthew 15 are very telling and sobering verses. Jesus was quoting from Isaiah 29:13. The rebuke in context is directed at the Pharisees, but as we read of the rest of the bible, we note that the danger can indeed emerge from within the church and the denominational world at large. Paul warned of people who would not hold on to sound doctrine "...but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers..." (2Ti 4:3)
Peter warned extensively and bitingly of such false teachers who "allure through the lusts of the flesh" (2Pe 2:18 and overall the entire chpt 2)
We see and hear all over the "Christian" world today, all proclaiming the name the God yet denying the Lord through their froward teachings. It saddens us that the name of God is poorly spoken of especially in the face of the much prevalent "prosperity gospel". Truly as Peter wrote, these are the very people who "...by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of." (2Pe 2:2b)
A quick note on worship. I believe far too often, we ourselves show a "Phariseetic" streak. The Pharisees used worship like a "faith pageant". As Jesus said of them, " But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues," (Mat 23:5,6)
Why do we worship? What is our attitude in worship? To whom is our worship truly directed to? Brethren, worship is TO GOD! We are the PARTICIPANTS! Only God is the audience.
Have you heard people say "Oh I don't enjoy this service", "I don't get much out of the sermon", "why is the service so long", etc, etc.
Brethren, worship is a PRIVILEGE. In our comfortable, affluent society, we sometimes really don't see how BLESSED we are to be able to serve God and worship Him in such a safe and comfortable environment.
We come to God every Sunday, with humble, contrite hearts ready to give Him glory. In every aspect!
We dress decently and respectfully. Worship is a FORMAL occasion. Not some casual get together, chit chat session.
We quiet down our minds and focus on God. It's good to mingle and catch up but why not do so after worship? God deserves our full attention!
We participate eagerly and earnestly. We concentrate on the prayer that we may truly say amen to the prayer. We sing loudly, fervently, giving praise to our Father in heaven and encouraging one another. We take the Lord's Supper reverently in sober meditation, mindful of the great sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We give cheerfully as God has prospered us and not like we are giving spare change. We listen to the sermon actively, taking notes and turning to the Word of God as It is referenced, ruminate and digest and apply to our lives.
And at the end, we pray in our minds that our service had been pleasing and acceptable to God and only Him. And we go away rejoicing that we have had the privilege to come to Him and gather as a family of God, that we have done as He had commanded. That alone motivates us to come eagerly every Sunday together, nothing else should matter!
I'm afraid yes, at times, we too allow the doctrines of man, in his selfish, self-serving way to get in the path of true worship.
Brethren, let us be careful not to fall into the trap of serving ourselves while professing God, but to render our true obedience to the Lord.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
In Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. ~ Romans 8:7,8
Thursday, January 15, 2015
I Will Have Mercy and not Sacrifice
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 30 and Matthew 9.
Just a note on Matthew 9:13
Mat 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Jesus was most likely alluding to the writings of Hosea
Hos 6:6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
And we read again in Micah
Mic 6:6 Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?
Mic 6:7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
Mic 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
And we are all familiar with the account of Saul's disobedience in the matter of the Amalekites, where Samuel rebuked Saul in 1Samuel
1Sa 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
The context and application is slightly different but the concept is the same - what are we truly focussing on when we claim to do God's will? Jesus was targeting people who had the form without the function! As were the case in Old Testament Israel. Again, as we've mentioned in class, the problem was not with the sacrifice. Sacrifice authorised by God is all good! But the bigger picture we all need to have is what does God want us to truly to do.
In the context of Matthew 9, the Pharisees were accusing Jesus of keeping company with publicans and sinners. Some use this to justify going with friends to pubs, discos, etc.
First of all, notice the order of things:
Mat 9:10 And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. (Emphasis mine)
So did Jesus go to an undesirable place to "undesirable people" or was it the other way round?
Secondly, the purpose of Jesus associating with the so called sinners is clear - "...for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Mat 9:13b)
It wasn't a casual chit chat, makan session! It was Jesus preaching the gospel to the lost!
To make an appropriate application, it would be not turning away someone outside of the church, regardless of who it may be, when that individual approaches us to learn more, but to spend time in study with that individual. And yes, it could be over a meal in your house.
The point of the matter is this - Christ came to seek and save to lost (Luk 19:10). We have been beneficiaries of that mercy or compassion and it is our duty and privilege to extend that mercy to others. Yes it is all good and yea commanded for us to keep ourselves pure and unspotted and live righteously (Ti 2:12; Jam 1:27, etc). But it would be a grave mistake to divorce all these away from the two great commandments - to love God and keep His commandments and to love our neighbours (Matthew 22:37-39; Jhn 14:15). It would be pointless if not done in knowledge of truth and in a mere show of pride and false piety (c.f. Hos 6:6 "knowledge"; Mic 6:8 "humbly").
Let us be reminded our great privilege and responsibility as the Lord's redeemed and go about showing compassion to others (Luk 6:36) as Christ had patterned that we should follow His steps (1Pe 2:21). In all humility and contriteness of heart, which is the true sacrifice to God (Psa 51:17) and again, as Christ has demonstrated in giving His life for us (Phi 2:8)
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. ~ 2 Corinthians 7:1
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 30 and Matthew 9.
Just a note on Matthew 9:13
Mat 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Jesus was most likely alluding to the writings of Hosea
Hos 6:6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
And we read again in Micah
Mic 6:6 Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?
Mic 6:7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
Mic 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
And we are all familiar with the account of Saul's disobedience in the matter of the Amalekites, where Samuel rebuked Saul in 1Samuel
1Sa 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
The context and application is slightly different but the concept is the same - what are we truly focussing on when we claim to do God's will? Jesus was targeting people who had the form without the function! As were the case in Old Testament Israel. Again, as we've mentioned in class, the problem was not with the sacrifice. Sacrifice authorised by God is all good! But the bigger picture we all need to have is what does God want us to truly to do.
In the context of Matthew 9, the Pharisees were accusing Jesus of keeping company with publicans and sinners. Some use this to justify going with friends to pubs, discos, etc.
First of all, notice the order of things:
Mat 9:10 And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. (Emphasis mine)
So did Jesus go to an undesirable place to "undesirable people" or was it the other way round?
Secondly, the purpose of Jesus associating with the so called sinners is clear - "...for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Mat 9:13b)
It wasn't a casual chit chat, makan session! It was Jesus preaching the gospel to the lost!
To make an appropriate application, it would be not turning away someone outside of the church, regardless of who it may be, when that individual approaches us to learn more, but to spend time in study with that individual. And yes, it could be over a meal in your house.
The point of the matter is this - Christ came to seek and save to lost (Luk 19:10). We have been beneficiaries of that mercy or compassion and it is our duty and privilege to extend that mercy to others. Yes it is all good and yea commanded for us to keep ourselves pure and unspotted and live righteously (Ti 2:12; Jam 1:27, etc). But it would be a grave mistake to divorce all these away from the two great commandments - to love God and keep His commandments and to love our neighbours (Matthew 22:37-39; Jhn 14:15). It would be pointless if not done in knowledge of truth and in a mere show of pride and false piety (c.f. Hos 6:6 "knowledge"; Mic 6:8 "humbly").
Let us be reminded our great privilege and responsibility as the Lord's redeemed and go about showing compassion to others (Luk 6:36) as Christ had patterned that we should follow His steps (1Pe 2:21). In all humility and contriteness of heart, which is the true sacrifice to God (Psa 51:17) and again, as Christ has demonstrated in giving His life for us (Phi 2:8)
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. ~ 2 Corinthians 7:1
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Eye Disease
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 25; Matthew 6 and Psalm 127.
In Matthew 6, Jesus continues His discourse in the oft touted "Sermon on the Mount".
We read of an interesting passage in Mat 6:22,23 that is seemingly out of the blue.
Mat 6:22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
Mat 6:23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!
To help us understand better, let's look at some terms:
The "light" here can be understood as "illuminator". The ASV, NKJV and ESV renders it as "lamp". Thus it is the eye that brightens the body.
"Single" can be understood as clear. NKJV renders it as "good" while the ESV, "healthy". A good, healthy, undiseased eye that is able to render clear vision.
"evil" is the opposite of "single". The NKJV and ESV renders it as "bad".
As we examine the context of the Sermon on the Mount, we realise that Jesus started off talking about the "beattitudes" and rounding off that section with the well known "salt of the earth, light of the world" verses (Mat 5:13-16).
Christians are to be different! They are to shine as beacons in this dark and perverse world. To give hope and direction, through Christ, to the lost.
Jesus went on to warn against hypocrisy and pitfalls that Christian's might succumb to and just before the verse in question, a exhortation to focus on heavenly goals. Later in chpt 7, we would read of the danger of having a beam laden eye (Mat 7:1-5).
All these point to the fact that the Christian is supposed to shine as lights. Yet how is this light to truly illuminate depends on how well we reflect God's glory which is determined by how clearly we "see" or our mental disposition. Are we still carnal in our thoughts, rendering good for good, evil for evil? Do we go about "showing off" our spirituality? Where do we set our sights upon in this world? If we have diseased eyes, a clouded mind, we won't be effective reflectors but on the contrary, render only darkness. Why do we "see" darkness? It's not because of "light" but rather the absence of it. Instead of being lights, we would become as what Jesus said "the blind leading the blind" (Mat 15:14).
Let us be forewarned - eye disease is a real threat to us all. We need to take care of our "eyes" by constantly applying the eye salve of the Word. We need to exercise our eyes by doing good things as in the light and not the dark. We need to set our sight on the things up high and not develop tunnel vision and myopia, focussing only on earthly things. Only then can we be effective lights for Christ, to bring home the lost and yea indeed, our very own souls.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. ~ 2 Corinthians 7:1
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 25; Matthew 6 and Psalm 127.
In Matthew 6, Jesus continues His discourse in the oft touted "Sermon on the Mount".
We read of an interesting passage in Mat 6:22,23 that is seemingly out of the blue.
Mat 6:22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
Mat 6:23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!
To help us understand better, let's look at some terms:
The "light" here can be understood as "illuminator". The ASV, NKJV and ESV renders it as "lamp". Thus it is the eye that brightens the body.
"Single" can be understood as clear. NKJV renders it as "good" while the ESV, "healthy". A good, healthy, undiseased eye that is able to render clear vision.
"evil" is the opposite of "single". The NKJV and ESV renders it as "bad".
As we examine the context of the Sermon on the Mount, we realise that Jesus started off talking about the "beattitudes" and rounding off that section with the well known "salt of the earth, light of the world" verses (Mat 5:13-16).
Christians are to be different! They are to shine as beacons in this dark and perverse world. To give hope and direction, through Christ, to the lost.
Jesus went on to warn against hypocrisy and pitfalls that Christian's might succumb to and just before the verse in question, a exhortation to focus on heavenly goals. Later in chpt 7, we would read of the danger of having a beam laden eye (Mat 7:1-5).
All these point to the fact that the Christian is supposed to shine as lights. Yet how is this light to truly illuminate depends on how well we reflect God's glory which is determined by how clearly we "see" or our mental disposition. Are we still carnal in our thoughts, rendering good for good, evil for evil? Do we go about "showing off" our spirituality? Where do we set our sights upon in this world? If we have diseased eyes, a clouded mind, we won't be effective reflectors but on the contrary, render only darkness. Why do we "see" darkness? It's not because of "light" but rather the absence of it. Instead of being lights, we would become as what Jesus said "the blind leading the blind" (Mat 15:14).
Let us be forewarned - eye disease is a real threat to us all. We need to take care of our "eyes" by constantly applying the eye salve of the Word. We need to exercise our eyes by doing good things as in the light and not the dark. We need to set our sight on the things up high and not develop tunnel vision and myopia, focussing only on earthly things. Only then can we be effective lights for Christ, to bring home the lost and yea indeed, our very own souls.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. ~ 2 Corinthians 7:1
Friday, January 9, 2015
Taking Things Into Our Own Hands
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from Psalm 11, Genesis 19-20 and Matthew 3.
We read of the conclusion of the incident of Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Bro Yong Yaw preached an excellent lesson on this which I hope you'd still recall.
In the aftermath, we read of the demise of Lot's wife, his daughters committing incest out of a seemingly good intent. Later on, back to Abraham, we see a great man of faith succumbing (yet again! c.f. Gen 12:11ff) to personal insecurities and hid the truth to save his skin.
Brethren, far too often we compelled to think ahead of God. As a result of their "good intent", the daughters of Lot produced one of the worst enemies of Israel (Moab and Ammon). Abraham, in spite of his great faith, thought it necessary to hide his relationship with his wife when in both instances, it would not have gotten him into trouble. (Notice his reasoning in Gen 20:11) And previously, when God promised him a son of his own with Sarah, their skepticism moved Sarah to give Hagar unto Abraham, which again resulted in the birth of an opposing nation (c.f. Gen 16).
While on one hand, we should not sit idly on our bums and adopt a "wait for the rabbit at the tree" attitude, it is entirely another to achieve our own goals through our own means, especially when God had specific instructions or when doing so requires flouting God's Law.
In contrast, we look at the shining example of Joseph, who in spite of his ups and downs, continued to look to God and do His will. Just imagine if he had taken things into his own hands to "fulfill" God's vision to him about him ruling over his brethren and even parents. Perhaps he could have observed the attitudes of his brothers and decided to hire some bodyguards, which might have triggered a bloodbath when the brothers tried to kill him. Or what if Joseph decided to conspire with the wife (who was attracted to him anyway) and usurp his Egyptian master to "fulfill" the dream? What if Joseph decided that in order to be great he had to somehow break out of prison?
Thanks be to God, Joseph did none of that but focused on doing right before God every step of the way* and God provided for him.
Brethren, let us learn from the examples before us, to shun the negative and uphold the positive (c.f. 1Co 10:11; Rom 15:4). Let us learn to lean on and trust in God and not try to second guess Him. Let us always choose to do what is right and trust that God will provide!
The Lord bless our day ahead.
In Him
Paul
*Notice that Joseph did not chose to do good only when God blessed him and "cursed God and die" (c.f. Job 2:9), when in trouble. His obedience (and so should ours too!) was independent of his circumstance.
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. ~ 2John 9
Today's readings are taken from Psalm 11, Genesis 19-20 and Matthew 3.
We read of the conclusion of the incident of Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Bro Yong Yaw preached an excellent lesson on this which I hope you'd still recall.
In the aftermath, we read of the demise of Lot's wife, his daughters committing incest out of a seemingly good intent. Later on, back to Abraham, we see a great man of faith succumbing (yet again! c.f. Gen 12:11ff) to personal insecurities and hid the truth to save his skin.
Brethren, far too often we compelled to think ahead of God. As a result of their "good intent", the daughters of Lot produced one of the worst enemies of Israel (Moab and Ammon). Abraham, in spite of his great faith, thought it necessary to hide his relationship with his wife when in both instances, it would not have gotten him into trouble. (Notice his reasoning in Gen 20:11) And previously, when God promised him a son of his own with Sarah, their skepticism moved Sarah to give Hagar unto Abraham, which again resulted in the birth of an opposing nation (c.f. Gen 16).
While on one hand, we should not sit idly on our bums and adopt a "wait for the rabbit at the tree" attitude, it is entirely another to achieve our own goals through our own means, especially when God had specific instructions or when doing so requires flouting God's Law.
In contrast, we look at the shining example of Joseph, who in spite of his ups and downs, continued to look to God and do His will. Just imagine if he had taken things into his own hands to "fulfill" God's vision to him about him ruling over his brethren and even parents. Perhaps he could have observed the attitudes of his brothers and decided to hire some bodyguards, which might have triggered a bloodbath when the brothers tried to kill him. Or what if Joseph decided to conspire with the wife (who was attracted to him anyway) and usurp his Egyptian master to "fulfill" the dream? What if Joseph decided that in order to be great he had to somehow break out of prison?
Thanks be to God, Joseph did none of that but focused on doing right before God every step of the way* and God provided for him.
Brethren, let us learn from the examples before us, to shun the negative and uphold the positive (c.f. 1Co 10:11; Rom 15:4). Let us learn to lean on and trust in God and not try to second guess Him. Let us always choose to do what is right and trust that God will provide!
The Lord bless our day ahead.
In Him
Paul
*Notice that Joseph did not chose to do good only when God blessed him and "cursed God and die" (c.f. Job 2:9), when in trouble. His obedience (and so should ours too!) was independent of his circumstance.
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. ~ 2John 9
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
The Whole Armour of God
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from
Genesis 11-13 and Ephesians 6.
Incidentally, bro Yong Yaw touched on concepts in both passages!
In Ephesians 6, we are quite familiar with the "Armour of God". As bro Yong Yaw, emphasised, Paul exhorted us to put on the WHOLE armour of God. Not a single part can be left out! We note that the purpose, as outlined in v. 11,13 was to withstand the wiles of the devil. And to the effect of being strong in the Lord (v.10).
Just a quick run through the component parts, which again we emphasize, is not to be taken individually. Again as bro Yong Yaw pointed out, the Armour essentially represents or alludes to the Word of God.
1) Girdle of truth
Bro Calvin will attest to this! A weightlifter or an individual attempting to do some heavy squatting will almost always wear a weight lifting belt. The purpose is to give additional support to the lower back which is very susceptible to injury under heavy stress. Our core muscles (lower back, abdominals) are one of the most important as all movement involve them. Thus is the nature of truth. It is what gives us the necessary support in our spiritual endeavours. Without which, we would not be successful and indeed doomed to crumble under worldly pressure.
2) Breastplate of righteousness
Nothing more important that protection for the vitals! But as we've discussed in class on several occasions, we need to make sure this righteousness is not of our own but of God. (c.f. Rom 10:3)
3) Shoes of the Gospel lived
Again, we are reminded that all our effort in attending classes, listening to sermons, taking notes, personal study is only useful if fleshed out in our lives! We need to constantly examine ourselves - are we "walking the talk"? Are we walking worthy of our vocation? (Eph 4:1) Be sure we are doers and not just hearers! (Jam 1:22)
4) Shield of faith
Truly, "the just shall live by faith" (Rom 1:17). As we often sing "Faith is the Victory"! We once again take comfort in the great men of old we read of in the "Faith Hall of Fame" in Hebrews 11. A analogy that would have been vivid and well appreciated by the audience in those days since both the Greek and Roman armies employed shields to great effect. In fact, to the Spartan, to lose a shield is to be a deserter!* Indeed, losing our shield of faith will not only cost us our spiritual lives but very well the lives of others...
5) Helmet of salvation
Paul puts it in another angle - hope of salvation (1Th 5:8). It is with this hope that we can stand tall and not bow before the enemy. It is with this hope that we need not fear the wiles of the devil. It is with this hope that brings us peace and comfort and blessed assurance of that heavenly reward as long as we make sure it stays on!
6) Sword of the Spirit
Paul couldn't have made it clearer, since he gave the very definition just after it! The Hebrew writer gives a vivid description of the all discerning Word of God (Heb 4:12). It is often said, the best defense is a good offense! Nipping all sources of problems at the bud with swift strokes, certainly puts the Christian at a much better position to defend himself. Wherefore we need to not only constantly sharpen our sword but be adept at wielding it.
The Lord be with us all to put on the Armour and put it on well! That we may be well preserved and be wholly acceptable in the Day of Reckoning.
In Him
Paul
*http://www.ancientgreekbattles.net/Pages/47931_Spartaquotes.htm
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. ~ 2John 9
Today's readings are taken from
Genesis 11-13 and Ephesians 6.
Incidentally, bro Yong Yaw touched on concepts in both passages!
In Ephesians 6, we are quite familiar with the "Armour of God". As bro Yong Yaw, emphasised, Paul exhorted us to put on the WHOLE armour of God. Not a single part can be left out! We note that the purpose, as outlined in v. 11,13 was to withstand the wiles of the devil. And to the effect of being strong in the Lord (v.10).
Just a quick run through the component parts, which again we emphasize, is not to be taken individually. Again as bro Yong Yaw pointed out, the Armour essentially represents or alludes to the Word of God.
1) Girdle of truth
Bro Calvin will attest to this! A weightlifter or an individual attempting to do some heavy squatting will almost always wear a weight lifting belt. The purpose is to give additional support to the lower back which is very susceptible to injury under heavy stress. Our core muscles (lower back, abdominals) are one of the most important as all movement involve them. Thus is the nature of truth. It is what gives us the necessary support in our spiritual endeavours. Without which, we would not be successful and indeed doomed to crumble under worldly pressure.
2) Breastplate of righteousness
Nothing more important that protection for the vitals! But as we've discussed in class on several occasions, we need to make sure this righteousness is not of our own but of God. (c.f. Rom 10:3)
3) Shoes of the Gospel lived
Again, we are reminded that all our effort in attending classes, listening to sermons, taking notes, personal study is only useful if fleshed out in our lives! We need to constantly examine ourselves - are we "walking the talk"? Are we walking worthy of our vocation? (Eph 4:1) Be sure we are doers and not just hearers! (Jam 1:22)
4) Shield of faith
Truly, "the just shall live by faith" (Rom 1:17). As we often sing "Faith is the Victory"! We once again take comfort in the great men of old we read of in the "Faith Hall of Fame" in Hebrews 11. A analogy that would have been vivid and well appreciated by the audience in those days since both the Greek and Roman armies employed shields to great effect. In fact, to the Spartan, to lose a shield is to be a deserter!* Indeed, losing our shield of faith will not only cost us our spiritual lives but very well the lives of others...
5) Helmet of salvation
Paul puts it in another angle - hope of salvation (1Th 5:8). It is with this hope that we can stand tall and not bow before the enemy. It is with this hope that we need not fear the wiles of the devil. It is with this hope that brings us peace and comfort and blessed assurance of that heavenly reward as long as we make sure it stays on!
6) Sword of the Spirit
Paul couldn't have made it clearer, since he gave the very definition just after it! The Hebrew writer gives a vivid description of the all discerning Word of God (Heb 4:12). It is often said, the best defense is a good offense! Nipping all sources of problems at the bud with swift strokes, certainly puts the Christian at a much better position to defend himself. Wherefore we need to not only constantly sharpen our sword but be adept at wielding it.
The Lord be with us all to put on the Armour and put it on well! That we may be well preserved and be wholly acceptable in the Day of Reckoning.
In Him
Paul
*http://www.ancientgreekbattles.net/Pages/47931_Spartaquotes.htm
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. ~ 2John 9
Monday, January 5, 2015
Be Not Ye Partakers
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from Psalms 8, Genesis 9,10 and Ephesians 5.
Some thoughts on the first part of Ephesians 5.
As with many of Paul's writings, he often includes both doctrinal and practical sections in his letters. The book of Ephesians is no different.
The concluding 2 chapters offer many practical tips and we shall look at the first 7 verses.
Verses 1 and 2, seem to belong to the previous chapter, but all the same, we could take it as a practical elaboration to the conclusion.
1) Sweet smelling savour
We talked about this in class this week. God's love for man was manifested in the His giving of His only begotten. Christ's love for God was manifested in His perfect obedience. As "living sacrifices" (Rom 12:1), we ought to follow in Christ examples to render the perfect obedience, which is a sweet, smelling, acceptable savour to God.
2) As becometh saints
An important side note here is the biblical definition of saints. Who are they? US! Christians. As simple as that. Why are we saints? Because we have been sanctified by the Word through our obedience to Christ. The Greek word basically means - sacred/holy. In fact, it is translated "holy" in the KJV almost 3 times as many times as "saints". Peter tells us that we are "a holy priesthood" and "an holy nation" (1Pe 2:5,9). Wherefore, it is so important for our lives to be found worthy! The "Christian" is not just a name! We have the heavy responsibility to live up to that name. As we've read in the previous chapter in Eph 4:1, we are to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called". How are our day to day actions/behaviour, speech, and indeed, thoughts? Are they "as becometh saints", worthy of being Christian or just like any other person on the street? If we walk as men (of the world), are not not yet carnal? (1Co 3:3)
3) Be Ye Not Partakers
If any of the worldly behaviour is continually present in us, we have no part in the heavenly inheritance. Such is the sobering warning. Paul warns us that being in the world, we ought to be vigilant and not be deceived. And to help ourselves, it should not merely be a "no-man", in other words just constantly shutting out and avoiding worldly behaviour, but ON TOP of that, engage in the healthy stuff! Instead of filthy talking, giving of praise and thanks. And later on in the chapter, instead of being intoxicated with wine (or for that matter any worldly thing), be filled with the spirit. Instead of joining in, reprove the evil works.
God help us all to be not partakers of the dead works of our old selves but look forward to the lively works, which we have been created in Christ for (Eph 2:10)
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. ~ 2John 9
Saturday, January 3, 2015
The Mystery of Christ
Dear class,
The readings today are taken from Genesis 5,6; Psalms 12 and Ephesians 3.
First introduced to us in Ephesians 1:9, one may wonder about this "mystery" which has been revealed.
The word here is really a transliteration of the Greek word "musterion". In the King James version of the bible, there are some 27 occurrences, majority of which have a reference to some hidden knowledge or plan.
Jesus talked about the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven (Mat 13:11; Mar 4:11; Luk 8:10)
Paul talked about
1) a mystery "kept secret since the world began" (Rom 16:25)
2) The hidden wisdom (1Co 2:7)
3) His will (Eph 1:9)
4) The mystery of Christ (Eph 3:3,4; Col 4:2,3)
5) A great mystery that concerned Christ and the church (Eph 5:32)
6) The mystery of the Gospel (Eph 6:19)
7) Mystery hid from ages, now made manifest (Col 1:26-27)
8) Mystery of the faith (1Ti 3:9)
9) Mystery of godliness (1Ti 3:16)
John mentions the mystery of God (Rev 10:7)
Perhaps the matter might not be so "mysterious" if the word hadn't been transliterated as such, which also happen to be used to denote a sense of uncertainty and fuzziness!
In particular, Paul's use seem to allude to the same thing from different angles. And we realise that it is really not so much as something unfathomable or some kind of Sherlock Holmes style puzzle to solve, but the fact that it was pre-determined and kept under the cover till an appointed time.
All the verses above point to the fact of the plan of salvation through Christ and the church - the Gospel, which was foreordained right from the very beginning and revealed through Christ and the apostles. There's nothing "mysterious", just merely hidden. Nothing impossible to understand but fully accessible to all who will obey. In fact v. 4 hits the nail right on the head - "Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ".
The "mystery" had been revealed for almost 2000 years now! Yet the same call to salvation applies. It remains for us to hang on to that which we have believed and rendered obedience to, and continue to study and deepen our understanding and appreciation AND spread the Message so that more would be privy to the Mystery of Christ.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
In Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. ~ James 1:22
The readings today are taken from Genesis 5,6; Psalms 12 and Ephesians 3.
First introduced to us in Ephesians 1:9, one may wonder about this "mystery" which has been revealed.
The word here is really a transliteration of the Greek word "musterion". In the King James version of the bible, there are some 27 occurrences, majority of which have a reference to some hidden knowledge or plan.
Jesus talked about the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven (Mat 13:11; Mar 4:11; Luk 8:10)
Paul talked about
1) a mystery "kept secret since the world began" (Rom 16:25)
2) The hidden wisdom (1Co 2:7)
3) His will (Eph 1:9)
4) The mystery of Christ (Eph 3:3,4; Col 4:2,3)
5) A great mystery that concerned Christ and the church (Eph 5:32)
6) The mystery of the Gospel (Eph 6:19)
7) Mystery hid from ages, now made manifest (Col 1:26-27)
8) Mystery of the faith (1Ti 3:9)
9) Mystery of godliness (1Ti 3:16)
John mentions the mystery of God (Rev 10:7)
Perhaps the matter might not be so "mysterious" if the word hadn't been transliterated as such, which also happen to be used to denote a sense of uncertainty and fuzziness!
In particular, Paul's use seem to allude to the same thing from different angles. And we realise that it is really not so much as something unfathomable or some kind of Sherlock Holmes style puzzle to solve, but the fact that it was pre-determined and kept under the cover till an appointed time.
All the verses above point to the fact of the plan of salvation through Christ and the church - the Gospel, which was foreordained right from the very beginning and revealed through Christ and the apostles. There's nothing "mysterious", just merely hidden. Nothing impossible to understand but fully accessible to all who will obey. In fact v. 4 hits the nail right on the head - "Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ".
The "mystery" had been revealed for almost 2000 years now! Yet the same call to salvation applies. It remains for us to hang on to that which we have believed and rendered obedience to, and continue to study and deepen our understanding and appreciation AND spread the Message so that more would be privy to the Mystery of Christ.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
In Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. ~ James 1:22
Friday, January 2, 2015
Enter Sin
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 3,4 and Ephesians 2.
We read of how sin entered the world through one, yet thanks be to God, how through another will it be conquered! (c.f. Rom 5:12 ff)
An interesting observation as we consider the passages in Genesis 3
(Gen 3:12) And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.
(Gen 3:17) And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;
Then we consider a passage in 1Timothy 2
(1Ti 2:14) And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
So, what was Adam's sin? Was God unjust in imputing sin to Adam, since he apparently did eat out of a "good conscience" being not privy to the source of the fruit?
What if Eve had given Adam poison? Would Adam have suffered the ill effects of poison because he didn't know it was?
The bible is clear as to what sin is - the transgression of law (1Jn 3:4). It was undeniable that Adam broke the law. He ate the forbidden fruit. That was why he had to suffer it's consequence. We can go on till the cow comes home about the "fairness" of things but it is perhaps more beneficial to focus on the lessons therein:
1) We are personally responsible
Could Adam have inquired about the source of the fruit? He certainly could have. Wherefore the bible exhorts us to prove all things! (1Th 5:21) He assumed and paid the price.
2) Sin is sin
The circumstance is immaterial. Where there's transgression, there's sin! And regardless, sin committed has to be repented of. We read of the pattern in OT (remember bro Patrick Swayne's lesson on OT anti-types) of how the Israelites had to likewise make atonement for sins of ignorance (Lev 4). Again we can waste our life away arguing about the circumstance or just deal with it right away, in God's way.
3) God has the solution
Most importantly, God in His Great mercy gave the answer! (As we read in Eph 2) It wasn't as if Adam and Eve had no chance at all! Far be from it, since salvation was determined of God before the foundation of the world! (1Pe 1:20) Woe to us that man should transgress and sin should enter. Yet thanks be to God for His wondrous providence for man to be reconciled in Christ. It remains for us to render our obedience and receive forgiveness and life or continue to wallow in sin and self-pity and face eternal damnation.
Wherefore let us be sober and vigilant! (1Pe 5:8) Look out for one another, exhort one another, restore one another, even snatch one another out of the clutches of sin (Heb 3:13; Gal 6:1; Jud 23). That we might all obtain the crown of righteousness. Never let it once for us to adopt a cross arm-pout lip-self-righteous indignation and allow our hearts to harden beyond hope.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. ~ James 1:22
Today's readings are taken from Genesis 3,4 and Ephesians 2.
We read of how sin entered the world through one, yet thanks be to God, how through another will it be conquered! (c.f. Rom 5:12 ff)
An interesting observation as we consider the passages in Genesis 3
(Gen 3:12) And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.
(Gen 3:17) And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;
Then we consider a passage in 1Timothy 2
(1Ti 2:14) And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
So, what was Adam's sin? Was God unjust in imputing sin to Adam, since he apparently did eat out of a "good conscience" being not privy to the source of the fruit?
What if Eve had given Adam poison? Would Adam have suffered the ill effects of poison because he didn't know it was?
The bible is clear as to what sin is - the transgression of law (1Jn 3:4). It was undeniable that Adam broke the law. He ate the forbidden fruit. That was why he had to suffer it's consequence. We can go on till the cow comes home about the "fairness" of things but it is perhaps more beneficial to focus on the lessons therein:
1) We are personally responsible
Could Adam have inquired about the source of the fruit? He certainly could have. Wherefore the bible exhorts us to prove all things! (1Th 5:21) He assumed and paid the price.
2) Sin is sin
The circumstance is immaterial. Where there's transgression, there's sin! And regardless, sin committed has to be repented of. We read of the pattern in OT (remember bro Patrick Swayne's lesson on OT anti-types) of how the Israelites had to likewise make atonement for sins of ignorance (Lev 4). Again we can waste our life away arguing about the circumstance or just deal with it right away, in God's way.
3) God has the solution
Most importantly, God in His Great mercy gave the answer! (As we read in Eph 2) It wasn't as if Adam and Eve had no chance at all! Far be from it, since salvation was determined of God before the foundation of the world! (1Pe 1:20) Woe to us that man should transgress and sin should enter. Yet thanks be to God for His wondrous providence for man to be reconciled in Christ. It remains for us to render our obedience and receive forgiveness and life or continue to wallow in sin and self-pity and face eternal damnation.
Wherefore let us be sober and vigilant! (1Pe 5:8) Look out for one another, exhort one another, restore one another, even snatch one another out of the clutches of sin (Heb 3:13; Gal 6:1; Jud 23). That we might all obtain the crown of righteousness. Never let it once for us to adopt a cross arm-pout lip-self-righteous indignation and allow our hearts to harden beyond hope.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. ~ James 1:22
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