Thy Faith Fail Not

Luke 22:32

But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

And so we read of the fulfilment of Peter's denial. What then did Jesus mean by 'thy faith fail not"?

The answer is the second part of the verse!

Now, the word "converted" is better rendered in other modern versions and even the ASV. NKJV  has it has "returned" and ASV, ESV and NASB put it down as "turned again". And thus the core of "repentance".

We read in the book of John the encounter of Peter and Jesus in Jhn 21:15-19, how Peter was encouraged 3 times! And it was exactly to the purpose of "strengthen thy brethen".

Jesus' prayer is ever so relevant to us today. Yes, we will face trials and temptations; yes, we might stumble and fall; yes, we might even as Peter, deny Jesus, not once, but 3 times! Whatever the case, DON'T throw in the towel! Don't give up! But pick ourselves up, dust our knees, make right and press on. Let the words of the Hebrew writer continue to encourage us and keep us focused on our heavenly goal!

Heb 12:1 — Heb 12:2

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Has Christ Come?

Luk 21:27 — Luk 21:28

And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

The key to understanding this passage is to go back to what question was Jesus addressing in the first place. And we realise it is in Luke 21:7 - "And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?" And this question in turn sprung up from Jesus' prediction of the destruction of the temple just 2 verses before.

The difficulty is compounded here as Jesus suddenly seemed to allude to an event that is supposedly to signify the end of the world!

How do we know that it was not what Jesus had meant?

Well first of all, as mentioned, the account is clearly in reference to the matters and questions in vv. 5-7. This alone proves that Jesus was still talking about the destruction of the temple.

Secondly, we know for a fact that the second coming of Christ, where the world is destroyed and all will be judged, is a date that only God knows! (Mat 24:36) As echoed by both Paul and Peter, who paraphrased Jesus to say "as a thief in the night" (1Th 4:16 - 5:2; 2Pe 3:10). But clearly here, Jesus mentions a whole host of signs and events that would take place, before He comes "in a cloud with power and great glory".

So why did Jesus use that expression? The coming of the Lord or the day of the Lord is used to describe highly significant events. The establishment of the Church in Acts 2 was described as such. It was prophesied by Joel (Joel 2:28-32), which Peter quoted and showed to all its fulfillment on that day of Pentecost (Acts 2:16-21).

Thus it was perfectly fine and even suitably called for,  for Jesus to use a similar expression here to describe yet another highly significant event - the sack of Jerusalem by Rome, and along with it the destruction of the temple. This was what Jesus had mentioned in the accounts of Matthew and Mark (Mat 24:15; Mk 13:14) the "abomination of desolation" as prophesied by Daniel (Dan 9:26,27).

It was in a sense also a "judgment" that Jesus symbolically "came" for, executed by the hands of Rome, against the stiff-necked Jews, who continued to reject Christ and joined the government in persecuting the church (most notably the apostle Paul as the former Saul!). This was the last nail to the coffin which Judaism was in, with the destruction of all temple records, which was of such significance to the religion.

As for verse 28, it was possibly a reference to what Stephen would later experience, which may have been common to Christian martyrs, as we read in Acts 7:55-60.

Thus, this prophecy of Jesus had already been fulfilled, for almost 2000 years, with the destruction of the temple in AD70. What remains is for us to take heed to all these examples before us, that sobering reminder of the vengeance of God, that Christ WILL finally come again, and in that time, this physical world would be destroyed and the Judgement to take place. The only "catch" being that we will have completely no idea when that will be, and it remains for us to be sober and vigilant, and prepare for that Day, that we may anticipate with joy and expectation and not fear and trepidation!

PS: Max King (fallen member of the church) had apparently came out with the idea that Christ had indeed come in AD70. This false doctrine is also known as Realised Eschatology. The broader term for his teachings is Transmillennialism. His teachings had unfortunately also affected a small group in this region.

Caesar's to Caesar, God's to God

Luke 20:25

And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s and unto God the things which be God’s.

Some have taken this to justify the use of evil against evil! But clearly Jesus taught otherwise (Mat 5:38-48). 

So what does Jesus mean? Paul sheds some light in Romans 13:7 -"Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour."

So the point that Jesus was trying to make is as what the inspired Paul mentioned earlier in Romans 13:1 - "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God."

Yes, even to the much hated Roman government. As long as is does not go against God's law, we need to submit ourselves to the government and anyone else in legitimate power. Even if the power seems to be against the Cause and yes likely that our contribution may well be used to fund the persecution! 

Christians, above anyone else should not be see as anti-establishment. Let us be very careful especially in our interaction with people outside the church (yes including social media platforms!) not to be seen constantly criticizing and lambasting the government. For that matter, we should not have that kind of griping attitude towards anything and anyone else! (c.f. Col 3:8; 4:6) If there is a perceived matter that needs improvement, there are always legitimate and much more fruitful ways to do so. Especially here in Singapore. 

At the end of the day, let us be reminded that our most important citizenship is in the kingdom of heaven. There is nothing else that matters enough for that passport to be revoked.

The Austere Lord

Luke 19:21

For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou laidst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.

This is a similar parable to the parable of the talents (Mat 25:13-30) but obviously have their differences.

Couple of observations -

1) unlike the parable in Matthew's account, the servants are given the same amount. The reward was also proportional to the gain. Thus it seems that our level of reward in heaven is also based on our effort and achievement. And those who may not be as "talented" could make up with hard work. Now before one jumps to conclusion of salvation by works, as we have mentioned on previous occasions, it is not working to be saved but saved to be working! 

2) Again, we see that, one can lose one's inheritance in heaven if one is negligent in the Lord's work. In both parables, the slothful servant is punished. 

3) So is the Lord unfair to make such demands? Apparently, according to the slothful servant. But notice that the Lord did not agree to what he said but was merely using the servant's standard against himself. It was really just a lame excuse. The fact of the matter was that even the "barest minimalist" would have entered into the joy of the Lord. But even that, he would not do. 

The word austere is interesting. It is actually a transliteration of the Greek austeros, which is associated with honour, being earnest and severe. Paul wrote of the "goodness and severity of God" (Rom 11:22). Yes, God is the ultimate standard of justice. To the faithful, there is only but goodness, but to the unfaithful, there is only wrath and indignation.

So who will we be? I think the answer is obvious!

God Hath Forgotten

Psalm 10:11 He hath said in his heart, God hath forgotten: he hideth his face; he will never see it.

Psalm 10:13 Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God? he hath said in his heart, Thou wilt not require it. 

Thus we have the general attitude of the non-believer. Peter gave a sobering reminder in 2Pe 3:4 - "and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation." and went on to describe the sudden destruction of the flood and the inevitable yet undisclosed  2nd coming of Christ.

Man can deny and scorn all he likes, but that does not change an iota the fact that God sees all and God will repay!

Again, some sobering thoughts from Paul in  2:5 — Rom 2:9

"But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;

Who will render to every man according to his deeds:

To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life:

But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,

Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;"

Let this also be a timely reminder to us all - fret not because of evil doers.  "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord." (Rom 12:19b)! At the same time, never let us forget that God is omnipresent and omniscient! We may be able to fool fellow man, even for our entire lives and beyond! But there is nothing/nowhere we can hide from the Lord. Well did Jeremiah write -"Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD." (Jer 23:24) And again as the Psalmist said in Psalms 139:8 -"If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there."

It remains for us to be upfront with God, because at the end of the day, He will recompense. The only question is, as the apostle Paul reminded us, whether it be with eternal life or damnation.

The Pharisee and the Publican

Luke 18:14

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

The purpose of this soul searching parable was laid out clearly by the writer, Luke, in v.9 - "And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:"

The problem was not with the acts, but the attitude of the doer. The Pharisee in question sounded as if he was just interested in fulfilling a checklist and wanted to look good before men.

As we've observed earlier, as servants of righteousness in Christ, it is our duty to perform good works. There's nothing to shout about! Much less use our "accolades" by way of comparison.

On the other hand, the simple plea of the publican is no excuse for us to be just "beating our breasts" all the time! The work of the Lord remains an obligation to all the labourers in His Vineyard. Our humble and critical self-assessment from time to time is to spur ourselves to greater heights and not to wallow in self-pity.

So it remains vital that each and every one of us continually put in our best foot forward in our service to God and encourage others along with our example, to provoke one another unto love and good works (Heb 10:24), not as rivals, but as brothers and sisters, that we all may do our best for the Lord, and finally lay hold to that crown of righteousness.

Unprofitable Servants

Luke 17:10

So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

One of the greatest "difficulties" in the Christian world is understanding the "by faith" or "by works" concepts. If salvation is "by faith" then why do we need to do good works? If our "good works" matter, then is it "by faith"?

The parable by Jesus, perfectly explains the apparent conumdrum (difficult situation).

The apostle Paul tells us that we are baptised into Christ and raised in newness of life as servants of righteousness (Rom 6:3,4,18). He further wrote in Eph 2:10 that "we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works" (notice this is just after the famous Eph 2:8 which is part of the apparent "contradiction" with James 2:14-26!). 

Thus, as servants of righteousness, it is our duty to do works of righteousness! It is part of the job description! It is how we demonstrate our faith, as described in detail by James. And while a good job is expected, it did not earn us the position in the first place. THAT is given by the grace of God, through faith. However, we will lose our position if we are slothful and disobedient, as so clearly illustrated by Jesus in the parable of the talents (Mat 25:14-30).

God help us all to be "good and faithful servants", by being exemplary in our speech and conduct, by being diligent and zealous in works of righteousness, that we may one day "enter into the joy of the Lord"!

Faithful in Unrighteous Mammon

Luk 16:10 — Luk 16:12

He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?

And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?

Few passages stir up as much cognitive dissonance as the verses here! And this is right after Jesus exhorted the reader to "make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness" (refer to devotion on Luke 16:9)!

But here, Jesus explains Himself in v.12. 

So this passage is not an excuse for us to be devote our lives to mammon or worldly matters. How can it be when both James and John condemn worldliness and even more obvious, Jesus Himself later in this passage (Jam 4:4; 1Jo 2:15-17; Luk 16:13)? But the crux of the matter is the fact that as Christians, we need to be exemplary in our conduct, and as stewards of God's blessings, we need to exercise due integrity. Notice that in context, Jesus was primarily targeting the Pharisees, who were mostly abusing their spiritual status for worldly gain. If one is not able to control himself and be "faithful" in worldly matters by doing that which is right and just, one is not fit to handle spiritual matters or deserving of spiritual blessings.

It is interesting to note that Jesus was described as being "in favor with God and men" (Luk 2:52) and one of the qualities of elders was that "he must have a good report of them which are without" (1Ti 3:7a).

So don't go away with the idea that because worldliness and godliness are incompatible, just because Paul said that "all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." (2Ti 3:12), that  Christians will have to be constantly "at war" with the world! The world may look for trouble with us, but we are supposed to "live peaceably with all men". (Rom 12:18) 

Thus, be "faithful" in mammon, be exemplary, employees, employers, students, in whatever our hands find to do, "do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men" (Col 3:22). Yet in all that, look not to worldly reward but to our eternal inheritance and glory in heaven.

The Elder Brother Mentality

Luke 15:32

It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

It is interesting that the "elder brother" mentality is often missed in this parable yet it is also the one that is much more prevalent than the younger prodigal brother. 

"How can this person who lived his entire life as a bad person go to heaven?"

"Maybe i should take a "sabbatical" from Christian living!"

And becoming envious of the sudden attention when a brother goes up to repent in public.

Ezekiel has some further "bad news" 

Ezekiel 18:24

But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.

What the elder brother failed to realise that as long as he was with his father, the entire inheritance belonged to him. 

As long as we are with God, our heavenly reward will never be taken away! And that alone is sufficient for our rejoicing. What more when a brother, for whom Christ also died, turns back?

Are we jealous of God's goodness? In Matthew 20:15 - "Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?"

Furthermore, from Luke 12:47,48, we realise that there are varying degrees of punishment and reward. Surely we look forward to greater and not less reward!

And of course it is utter foolishness to desire and even enter into a "Christian sabbatical" because how will we know when we will leave this life and when Jesus will come again?

Surely, it is much wiser and better to be prepared at all times.

Wherefore let us rejoice where God rejoices and take pains to help one another continue to be able to rejoice in the Lord.

Of Hen and Chicks

Luk 13:34 — Luk 13:35

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!

Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

Reminds me of the game "eagle catch chick" we used play in our childhood days! Yet now with such a sobering message as it applies to our spiritual state.

Again we read of the similar charge laid upon the Jews by Jesus (cf. Luk 11:51). And truly, it was not as if God did not try! God had been merciful and long-suffering since day one! Yet the Israelites have rejected God's protection over and over by turning a deaf ear to God's spokespeople, and even persecuting them.

It seems incredulous that this could happen to God's chosen. Why would such a privileged people be so stiff-necked and hard-hearted? Why would any sane person reject the protection of God especially when the "eagle" is lurking around, ever ready to snatch the straggling chick?

Yet think about it as it applies to our own situation. God's protection is still valid and open today. To whoever is willing to submit and come into his brood. But that requires that we follow exactly what He commands and not what we THINK He commands or even worse, what we FEEL is right and convenient for us, since after all doesn't God loves us and want us to be happy?

God obviously desires all to be saved (1Ti 2:4; 2Pe 3:9)! And He is able and willing! That's why He is able to make demands of us. Even if it may feel uncomfortable and even "unreasonable" or "unfair" to some, the ultimate reward is much more than we deserve.

At the end of the day, whether one believes and follows Christ or not, ALL will bow to Him and confess His Lordship in the day of Judgment (cf. Phi 2:9-11). The only difference being, will it be in mortal fear and trepidation, like that of the devils, or in joy and expectation for the crown of righteousness (2Ti 4:8).

Then Shalt Thou Understand

Proverbs 2:5

Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.

Proverbs 2:9

Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.

The conjunctive adverb "then" indicates connection with the previous ideas stated before. These first 9 verses actually captures the key to a successful life as a child of God.

The first 5 talks about the "what and the how" while the next 4 tells us the "why".

The "fear of the Lord" is a well oft quoted concept and here it is coupled with "find(ing)" the knowledge of God. How shall it be achieved? What shall one do?

Notice the multiple actions that are found in the preceding verses :

V.1 - receive my words, hide my commandments

V.2 - incline thine ear unto wisdom, apply thine heart to understanding

V.3 - criest after knowledge, liftest up thy voice for understanding

V.4 - seekest her as silver, searchest for her as for hid treasures

Over and over again, we see an action and a pro-active attitude. You see, fearing God, knowing God intimately is something that we need to work at and be diligent in! One cannot expect to attain or even appreciate that of the Lord without putting one's shoulder to the wheel!

But then is it just blindly chugging along? Do we just give and give while God is like some tyrannical dictator merely taking and taking?

Far from it! You see, God is able to make perfect demands because He is able to give perfect rewards. Notice the rest of the verses:

V.6 - giveth wisdom, cometh knowledge and understanding 

V.7 - layeth up sound wisdom, he is a buckler 

v.8 - keepeth (guards)the paths of judgment, preserveth the way of his saints.

That's why we understand why He demands! That's why we are able to appreciate the things we are commanded of! That's why we will continue to do as He instructs!

Thanks be to God for such goodness and mercy! And God help us all to persevere in SEEKING AFTER and DOING His will, that we may appear right before Him in the Day of Judgment and be received into His everlasting glory and pleasure.

Consider the Lilies

Luk 12:27 — Luk 12:28

Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Jesus is obviously not advocating a pseudo "laissez-faire", "bo-chap", living for the moment attitude. Diligence and zeal are part and parcel of a Christian life (cf. 2Th 3:10, Ti 2:14)! 

The point is in v. 25 - "And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?"

and v. 31 - "But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you."

It seems especially true in modern urban environments that people are getting more and more anxious and unsettled. Depression and other mental illnesses seem to be on the rise and it even affects children. The advent of the internet and social media seemed to also have made things worse, as all of a sudden, we expose ourselves to the world and along with it the mind boggling array of view points and criticisms.

Yet even in today's high tech context, the words of our Lord and Savior still holds true - the challenges may have been made more complex but the solution remains the same. Why do we not worry? Not because things will resolve themselves but because there is no point merely worrying about them! Why worry about something we can't do anything about? (V.26) Instead, we should be focusing on things we CAN do, especially the things that have eternal consequences. And when we have done our best, we pray about it and leave it to the hands of God. 

Let Jesus' words of comfort ring in our ears - "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom." ~ Luke 12:32

The Devil's Workshop

Luk 11:24 — Luk 11:26

When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.

And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished.

Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

This account probably gave rise to the old saying - the idle mind is the devil's workshop! 

In Matthew's account (Matt 12:43-45), the word "empty" was added before "swept and garnished".

Indeed, it is so important for us to be busy with the Lord's work and busy with shaping our godly selves. Otherwise the worldly stuff that we had put away (supposedly) would come back and often with a vengeance!

It is particularly interesting that this passage comes after v.23 - "He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth."

If we are not diligent in taking care of our spiritual houses, it is not merely a "personal" matter, but an attack on Christ Himself! And when we are not productive, it is not merely "status quo" but indeed destructive to the Cause!

Wherefore let us not be nonchalant and slothful, but realise the great responsibility that has been given to us and apply our lives diligently to improve ourselves and our service to God, lest we be found in a worse state than before...(cf. 2Pe 2:20-22)

Blessed are the eyes which see

Luk 10:23 — Luk 10:24

And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see:

For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

Oftentimes, we fail to appreciate how blessed we are today, with the COMPLETE, ALL SUFFICIENT Word of God at our very finger tips. Do we realise that no other person before the completion of the bible has this privilege? (Cf. 1Co 13:8-10) Furthermore, we have it today in so many forms! In print, in digital media, in audio, etc. etc. And at little or no cost at all.

It is so easy for us to dwell into the Word of God and learn from its precious message. 

But wait, we don't have miracles and inspired men like they did! True, but this is a statement made in hindsight. Did it matter to people whose prejudices and pride prevented them from believing the men of God and the miracles? Not one bit. In fact, as we all well know, even Jesus Himself was accused of being in cahoots with the devil! And as the rich man found out in the account of Luke 16:31, if one would not believe in the Word, even a testimony from one who is back from the dead would not have made a difference.

You see, at every era of the history of man, God has provided unique opportunities and challenges. And it is in the Christian dispensation, that we have the complete Word of God. It remains for us to put our focus on that instead of trying to "look back" and even try to emulate/even fabricate past opportunities (que all the "faith healing", speaking in "tongues" and what not..).  See with our eyes of faith, which is built by the very Word of God in our hands (Rom 10:17; 2Co 5:7)

It is as simple as that.

Conceiving Good

Psalm 7:14 (ESV)

Behold, the wicked man conceives evil and is pregnant with mischief and gives birth to lies.

The English Standard Version gives a very vivid rendering of this passage, alluding to the process of child birth!

It begins with a thought, with a stirring in the mind/heart. As Jesus said in Luke 6:45 - "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh."

And then plans come in as the idea matures before finally the act itself takes place.

Just like childbirth, sin is oftentimes not by "accident", but an indication of a deeper issue. One who is a habitual liar - is it merely because of the "weakness" of the moment? Or is a lack of faith in God's providence to truth tellers, or maybe even doubt to the seriousness of lying?

Again, we are reminded of the process by James in James 1:14-15 - "But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death."

Yet it also means that there is something we can do about it. It need not be an inevitable spiral down to oblivion. As with evil-doing, well-doing doesn't happen by chance! But by careful and consistent effort. Wherefore it remains vital for us to acknowledge the dangers lurking in every corner, that we not become overconfident (1Co 10:12), to fill our hearts and minds with things that are wholesome and good in God's sight (Phi 4:8), and to be busy with the Lord's work and to stick around with like-minded people (Heb 10:24,25).

God help us all to conceive good, be pregnant with well-doing, and bring forth good fruits, that we may enter into the pleasure of our Lord.

Fit For The Kingdom

Luke 9:62

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

A sobering reminder from none other than our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ Himself!

The ancient plow (or plough) is the contraption which is attached to some kind of beast of burden (most likely oxen in the region) that allows one to turn furrows or grooves in the soil to prepare the field for planting. Quite obviously, the farmer has to keep his eyes forward to guide the animals so as to cut straight furrows in the ground. 

As the Christians, we have committed our lives to Christ. We have been created in Christ for good works (Eph 2:10). We are new creatures (2Co 5:17) have put on the new man (Eph 4:24; Col 3:10). Old things have passed away (2Co 5:17). Wherefore we have no business with the old but indeed should be looking and working forward.

As Paul wrote in Phi 3:13 - 14

"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

Looking back will distract us from focussing on what is really important. We recall how the Israelites constantly lamented about the "good old days" back in Egypt, even as slaves! And how as a result they wandered in the wilderness for 40 years when the exodus should have taken 40 days!

Looking back will not allow us to perform our best. Just like the farmer who is distracted, will not be able to cut proper furrows and result in wasted work.We are reminded of the parable of the talents (Mat 25:14-30), where in the end, the ineffective servant got his just deserts (v.30). Let us be forewarned! It is as much a transgression to commit sin as it is to omit our duty!

Looking back will finally cause us to suffer catastrophic failure and as Peter sternly warned in 2Pe 2:20-22, we will suffer a worse end than those who have not believed at all! 

Brethren, let us not be deceived and distracted. The life of the Christian is one of single-minded focus on the work of the Lord. We have been called as servants of righteousness and we are expected to perform to our very best. Let us not be called unfit, but let Jesus call us "good and faithful servant(s)" that we may enter into the joy of the Lord (Mat 25:21,23).

Then Cometh the Devil

Luke 8:12

Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.

So is it predestined that such people have no chance at all? That there are those who are simply "unlucky" to have been targeted by Satan? If so, how can it be fair for God to condemn those who know not God (and implied) and the Gospel (cf. 2Thess 1:8)?

Notice what God said to Cain, the very first recorded murderer - "If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him." (Genesis 4:7)

James further explains - "But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death." (James 1:14 -15)

So what has this got to do with the topic at hand?

The fact of the matter is that, right from the very beginning, even in the garden of Eden, Satan has played the role of the tempter. Oh he is there ever ready to snatch away God's command from us. And he does so by ever so slightly crafting half-truths and presenting temptations. All to the sole intent of ripping us away from obeying God.

BUT....it is ENTIRELY up to us to reject him or succumb to his subtility.

Satan can only take the Word out of our hearts IF we allow him to!

And there are many things that can make one do that. For Cain, it was his jealousy. For Pharaoh, it was his pride. For the rich young ruler, it was his riches.

Wherefore, it remains vital for us to be sober and vigilant (1Pe 5:8), to continually allow the Word to saturated our hearts and minds, to lead us in our thoughts and deeds, to innoculate us from the wiles of the devil, that we too, like Jesus, can successfully ward off Satan's attacks (cf. Mat 4), and that we can ultimately be fruitful and received up into eternal glory.

Wisdom Justified

Luke 7:35

But wisdom is justified of all her children.

In the minds of the froward, nothing is right. There is always a bone to pick, a fault to find. Never satisfied because they are not interested in the truth but what pleases them.

Yet, as the old adage goes - the proof is in the pudding. Or as Jesus puts it plainly, "wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them".

It goes both ways - the good and the bad. And here, Jesus puts it as a personification of wisdom. 

No matter how one denies, the teaching and actions of John the Baptist and Jesus speak for themselves. The results (children) from such wisdom, is obvious to all. It is through these results that we see wisdom justified, yes indeed vindicated.

Wherefore, it remains very important for us to simply focus on the wisdom of God instead of trying to play around with the contentious. At the end on the day, the results from righteous action will prevail. And far more importantly, will see us through to heaven.

Judge not?

 Luke 6:37

Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:

Again and again, this and the parallel passage (not the same sermon though) in Mat 7 had been subject to much misuse and abuse. And here perhaps more so as it appears as a "standalone". But in truth, the micro context is all the way up to V.42 (which was also covered in Mat 7).

The problem is not in the judging, the condemning. 

The problem is the attitude and intent behind it.

Do I want to be judged? Oh yes! If I am sinning against the Lord, I would want  "judging" and "condemning" brethren to tell me so! 

Even forgiveness. Some times we want to feel "magnanimous" but do realise that forgiveness can only be extended where there is repentance (cf. Luk 17:3-4). 

Let us not be on the 2 ends of the spectrum. Let us genuinely seek the welfare of fellow brethren and be true "judges" just as we become humble and contrite as the accused. And when we seek forgiveness, make sure it is with genuine repentance, and we extend forgiveness, without doubt and limit to those who have earned forgiveness.

Eating with Sinners

5:30 — Luk 5:32

But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?

And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician: but they that are sick

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

And so it's ok for us to visit bars, discos, KTV lounges and even brothels to "preach the gospel"?

We note that this was a feast at home, organised by Levi (the apostle Matthew, writer of Matthew cf. Mat 9:9). The publicans and others were invited guests, and apparently according to the account in Matthew 9, had gathered because of Jesus. They had probably heard of Jesus and were eager to hear of this phenomenal individual who performed miracles and spoke with authority.

So the point that Jesus was trying to make here is the fact that no one should be denied the Gospel. He was trying to hit home the point to his detractors that the Gospel is for all and not just for the Jews. The account is not trying to show where we should go to preach the gospel, which in any case, would have been more appropriately compared to, say a friend's Christmas party!

Anyone and everyone, regardless of background, and especially those who are seeking after the truth, deserves the Word to be preached to them. 

And yes, while we need to go out into the world to reach the lost and be flexible in our approach (not message!) (Cf. 1co 5:10; 9:20-23), it remains much more expedient for us to avoid unsavory and unconducive places.

Sin and Sinner

Psa 5:5 — Psa 5:6

The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest all workers of iniquity.

Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the LORD will abhor the bloody and deceitful man.

One of the most often heard expressions among the "churched" is - God hates sin but loves the sinner.

For sure, God has the welfare of man's soul as a priority. He gave His only begotten for us! (Jhn 3:16) God wants all to be saved (1Ti 2:4; 2Pe 3:9)!

YET...He will only save those that will render their obedience. God loves souls, but the unrepentant sinner will perish. 

We need to understand that the "sinner" is not defined by his person but by his actions. A sinner is hated and rejected by God not because he had sinned but because he chose to REMAIN in sin. 

Is God harsh? Not in the least. God is just. And therefore He will not allow sin to go unpunished.

But thanks be to God, the sinner need not remain so! Again and again, God loves souls! He has provided the only solution, the only way out - through Jesus Christ. And that applies to all sinners! That is true love! Telling exactly what is wrong and what needs to be done.

Let us speak where God speaks and not second guess God and think we know better - God hates sin and the soul that remains in sin. But God loves righteousness and souls. Any repentant soul will not be denied salvation. That is what God guarantees, and what we need to know and teach.

Lesson Objectives

Pro 1:2 — Pro 1:4

To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;

To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

To give subtlety to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.

Pro 1:6

To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

And there you have it! In modern day presentation/lesson jargon - the scope, the objectives of the proverbs!

Mostly self- explanatory, we note in particular the practical aspects of the proverbs. They are not mere musings or laments or outbursts of emotion as we see sometimes in the Psalms. Many of the proverbs give practical tips. This first one, for example, put a lot of emphasis on avoiding bad company and advice.

Two words here seem to be a bit of a confounder. "Subtlety" seems to be associated with deceit like we saw in the serpent (Gen 3:1)! But as some of the modern versions put it more accurately - prudence. Yes, as mentioned, the book of proverbs includes a collection of practical tips. Prudence is wisdom in practice.

And later we come across "dark sayings", which can be better understood as riddle or even a parable. Just as Jesus explained when asked for the reason He taught in parables (Mat 13:10-17). Through the various literary device, the proverbs is often able to be understood by examining other parts of the same verse of verses surrounding it.

The book of proverbs, is a treasure trove of godly instructions and tips! And even though they are not binding today, as with all other Old Testament scripture, they are still very much relevant and valuable for our learning and admonishment (Rom 15:4; 1Co 10:11).

Will We Be Devils?

 Luke 4:41

And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ.

It ceases not to amaze us the fact that of all creation, the devils (angels who have sinned and are ministers of Satan, cf. 2Pe 2:4; 2Co 11:14,15) are the ones that so readily recognise and acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God, as the Christ, the Messiah!

Truly, as echoed by James in James 2:19 -

"Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."

Where then does that put people who do not even believe in Jesus, or in God for that matter?

And perhaps even more sobering is, where does that put us, should we deny God through our disobedience and backsliding (cf. 2Pe 2:20-22)?

Yet, the devils were not permitted to speak. Perhaps it was the case of timing like even we read of in Matthew 9:30 of the 2 blind men.

We should also consider the potential for the abuse of that information. As it were, the Pharisees had accused Jesus of being in cahoots with the Devil (Mat 12:24)! What further evidence is needed when the devils themselves give testimony to Jesus?

Taking our thoughts a little further - if we have been reluctant to speak of God and His Word to others, it is because of our less than exemplary life? That even Jesus would suffer us not to speak, lest His name be blasphemed?

A very sobering prospect indeed even as we examine our own lives. We who confess and profess Jesus as the Son of God, who had been buried with Him in baptism and raised in newness of life (Rom 6:4), whose lives had been committed to Christ, should indeed live in Christ (Gal 2:20; Phi 1:21), should indeed not be ashamed to proclaim His Name and His Word!

Let us be not be as devils, far-fetched and horrifying  as that may sound, but yet all too common, when we profess in word but deny in deed. And instead live rightly and reasonably so, as godly creatures, that we be useful vessels, allowed and fit for His Service, that we may lay hold ultimately, onto the crown of life.