The 7 Churches

Dear Class,

Today's readings are taken from Leviticus 25 and The Revelation 3.

Thought I'd just forward a previous devotion on Rev 2,3 as a refresher and for the benefit of newcomers.

Today we start on the final book in the bible, the Revelation of Jesus Christ or in short the book of the Revelation. At this juncture, just like to clarify that it is "The Revelation", not what commonly called "Revelations". The title is so used as taken from the very first verse. One of the things which we need to be aware as we read this book, is that it is apocalyptic in form, meaning to say, it is primarily prophetic in nature. Symbolic and figurative language is often used. Unfortunately, the denominational world at large, especially the so-called premillennialists have grossly misused the figures in the book to perpetuate false doctrines.

In chapters 2 & 3, we read of the messages to the 7 churches in Asia minor. Let's take a brief look at each of them
1) Ephesus - first love lost
Right form the start, the church at Ephesus seemed to be doing quite well. They were rich in good works, they did not tolerate false doctrine and were zealous in their labours. Yet, somehow that had changed and were found to depart from the first love/works, or that is to say the former zeal and good works. Such is the case of complacency which has so often plagued mature churches. Very often, churches find themselves "resting on their laurels" so to speak. We need to remind ourselves that we were saved FOR good works (Eph 2:10). There's no retirement age for the Christian! No such thing as "passive income"! We will do the Lord's work and be zealous for it till we expire or when Jesus comes again. Paul gave us the encouragement to look towards our heavenly goal lest any of us should become weary. (Ti 2:13-14)

2) Smyrna - the persecuted church
Here we have a relatively shorter message but none the less powerful and significant, especially the significant 2:10. The message is clear - hold on and press on! Regardless of our estate (poor or rich), regardless of the dire circumstance, knowing which a glorious reward awaits us.

3) Pergamos - the compromising church
Here was a church which seemed to be staunch in faith, even in the face of great temptation and persecution. (Satan's seat refers to the circumstance of being surrounded deeply in worldly practices) But the main thing against them was tolerance to false doctrine. What is the doctrine of Balaam and of the Nicolaitans? The doctrine of Balaam should sound familiar. (Remember the Balaam puzzle??? :))If you recall, Balaam, son of Beor, was the prophet who was hired by Balak the King of Moab to curse the Israelites (Num 22-24). After failed attempts as we read of the the account, greed drove him to finally succeed in causing the people to sin, indirectly causing the death of 24000 Israelites! (Num 25:9, c.f. Num 31:16) As illustrated in Rev 2:14b, the doctrine of Balaam is basically that of worldliness and greed. Here was a church which had all the bells and whistles with their proclamation of faith, yet allowed members to continue in worldly practices like fornication. Remember that sin is not only in commission but also omission! If we fail to convict erring brethren, it is as good as being an accomplice!
As for the doctrine of Nicolaitans, there are a number of views. Barnes suggests that the Nicolaitans were a specific group of people who held the doctrine of Balaam. Clarke wrote in his commentary that the Nicolaitans were possibly a gnostic sect (people who believed in worldly knowledge in salvation), subscribing to polygamy and mixing of pagan rites. But he too is of the opinion that those who held the doctrine of Balaam and Nicolaitans and the Gnostics as a whole belonged to the same group. It seems unlikely that the inspired writer would have left something of importance to speculation, especially when it was mentioned previously in Rev 2:6. When we examine the progression of the argument in Rev 2:14,15, it seems to support what the commentators suggested. v. 14 was a broad reference to an OT example and v.15 describes a specific group in their time. Essentially, we need to beware of worldliness that has so often crept into the church. It does not help matters that some of the "mega churches" peddle the "prosperity gospel" and perpetuate the bombardstic, ra-ra element of the entertainment industry, making a huge mockery of the sobriety, purity of the gospel truth. Nicolaitans of today are alive and all around! We will all do well to identify such and beware of them.

4) Thyatira - the condoning church
Essentially similar to the case of Pergamos, the church at Thyatira seems to take it one up by allowing a specific individual (most likely not by the name of Jezebel! But Jesus was just using the name as a description of the manner of person the woman was) to perpetuate false doctrine. Yet notice that God always provides space for repentance for the sinning and there is always hope for such if they are willing to repent. (2:21,22)

5) Sardis - the dead church
Except for a remnant few, this is the only church which Jesus had nothing good to say! The diagnosis - imperfect works. The prognosis - death! Notice that works were not lacking, but they were imperfect or incomplete. Perhaps it was the motivation behind, perhaps it was the manner they were conducted (c.f. Mat 7:21-23). Perhaps they were not fully carried out and left to deteriorate (c.f. the rebuilding of the temple, Hag 1) The important thing here is what is our attitude toward the Lord's work? Are we putting in our best or merely paying lip service? Imperfect works are as good as dead!

6) Philadelphia - the steadfast church
In contrast, we have a glorious example of a church that is not slack but patient and steadfast in the Lord. Notice the exaltation that was to be theirs as granted by our Lord (v.9). Obviously, Jesus is not teaching human worship! But an illustration that all power is given unto Him to exalt and to abase. And what manner of exaltation! Even to the point of heavenly beings. Notice yet another figure in verse 12 - a pillar. The Church (universal one that is), is described as the pillar and ground of truth (1Ti 3:15). The pillar in a building is of such great importance. It is the structure that upholds the entire weight of the building. Truly, only the steadfast would be conferred such an honour! As reminded by Paul in 1Co 15:58 (our memory verse for the week, btw), let us continue to be "steadfast and unmoveable", that we too may be "pillars" in the body of Christ.

7) Laodicea - the lukewarm church
Here is a church that is rich but not in Christ! (as contrasted to Smyrna). One of the most often that plagues churches in prosperous regions. The figure used here is interesting  - lukewarmness. The idea of hot or cold is not to be misunderstood as being zealous and totally uninterested. What is meant here is the goodness of water being either hot (hot springs, for cooking, etc) or cold (refreshing, preservation). It is a medical fact that lukewarm or tepid water is most likely to induce vomitting! We need to be zealous for the Lord Ti 2:14! Our physical blessings are in no wise a reason for complacency. Paul instructed the rich not to trust in riches but to be rich in good works (1Ti 6:17-19), for that is the "gold tried in fire" (Rev 3:18) that is the true riches, which does not decay (Mat 6:19-20) but will lead us to everlasting life.

Let us continue to take heed of the Lord's admonishments, examine ourselves and overcome our obstacles, knowing that of such is given the tree of life (Rev 2:7), the crown of life (Rev 2:10) and not taste second death (Rev 2:11), receive power over the nations (Rev 2:26) whose names are written in the book of life (Rev 3:5), who are the pillars in the temple of God (Rev 3:12), who will sit on heavenly thrones (Rev 3:21), and to whom belongs a glorious inheritance as SONS of God! (Rev 21:7)

What a privilege, what a joy divine, what a great comfort! To this we say Amen and Amen!

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

And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. ~ 2Thessalonians 3:14,15

Cast Not Away Your Confidence

Dear class,

Today's readings are taken from Leviticus 13 and Hebrews 10:19-39.

The concluding verses in Heb 10 exhorts the Christian to press on with patience and set the stage for the subsequent chapter on faith.

Paul reminded the saints that they had endured afflictions from the beginning, whether be it upon themselves or witnessing of others (Heb 10:32,33), yet held on.
Why should we hang on?
The fact that Christ had died for us that we may have the hope of life eternal. The fact that the apostles and and so many before us have held on and persevered.

The fact that we "have in heaven a better and an enduring substance" (v.34). Truly as Jesus said, "where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:". That is where our true treasure and inheritance lies. Bro Swayne's impassioned sermon on Sunday should strike a resounding note in all of us. How often, how much do we truly appreciate the fact that the only investment that ultimately pays is up above?

The fact that we have "great recompence of reward" (v. 35). A great, incorruptible crown (1Co 9:25). A crown of righteousness that awaits those patient and stedfast in Christ, who have "kept the faith" (2Ti 4:7,8)

The fact that it is a "promise", from God Himself (v.36)! As Jesus said, "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." God will make good His promises! (Psa 77:8; 2Co 1:0) And what a great promise, of eternal life (1Jn 2:25) of a new heaven and earth (2Pe 3:13), exceeding great and precious (2Pe 1:4)

The fact that Jesus will come again and bring to pass all that He has promised (v.37). God is not slack! (2Pe 3:9) Certainly we want to be prepared for His coming like the wise virgins.

The fact that otherwise, God "shall have no pleasure" in us (v.38). And truly as mentioned a few verses up in v.31,"It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." How could we, having made partakers of His grace renounce His holy name by forsaking our confidence? Indeed there is "But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation"!

The fact of our firm belief that our salvation is found in Christ and only Him (v.39). In spite of man's protests and efforts, there can be no other way. Salvation is in Christ (2Ti 2:10)! Falling back to our old self will only bring about condemnation. God's will is not affected by our unbelief (Rom 3:3). But we have to answer for our actions.

Brethren, let us not forget our glorious estate, that whatever happens, be patient and cast not away our confidence in God but cleave on to Christ that in due time, we will gain that great 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

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. ~ 1Thessalonians 5:16-22

Doctrine of Baptisms

Dear class,

Today's readings are taken from Leviticus 1-3 and Hebrews 6.

One of the passages that has caused some difficulty and been a subject of abuse is found in Hebrews 6:1-2.

Heb 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Heb 6:2  Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

The major issue here is just what are these "principles" and "foundation" refer to. Are they the same thing or different?

Some commentators contend that they both refer to the New Testament teachings, which makes fair sense when we take the context of Heb 5:12. However, one runs into difficulty to explain "repentance from dead works", "doctrine of baptisms" and "lay on of hands" (which implies the passing of miraculous gifts and was present in the 1st century but absolutely not necessary for salvation).

Others take the view that the "foundation" here refers to Old Testament practices.
Strong evidence points in favour of this view.
Firstly, notice that part (a) of v.1 is not exactly meant to be conjoined to part (b) Thus there is no firm indication that the "foundation" refers to the "principles".Also bearing in mind that the immediate readers were Jewish converts. These were people who had Judaism in their blood! In fact it was a problem beginning in the first century, which we touched on a couple of times in class about Judaising Christians. We have been given the foundation, the principles of the doctrine of Chirst, why lay the foundation again with old stuff? Just doesn't make sense. So Paul is further emphasising and reminding them the fact that the Old Law is a done deal! When we examine the theme of the entire book of Hebrews, this idea fits in perfectly.

Secondly, it will then satisfactorily explain the other "foundational" tenets. "Doctrine of baptisms" Cannot refer to the NT baptism, since Paul himself clearly wrote of "one baptism" (Eph 4:5). Does it refer to the "modes" of baptism? Quite obviously not, since the only pattern we see is that of immersion, which the original Greek means. Or perhaps it refers to the water baptism, and Holy Spirit baptism and maybe baptism of John? Yet we note that Holy Spirit baptism (not to be confused with spiritual gifts) was really confined to the few limited examples (e.g. Day of Pentacost, Cornelius) and is not written of as essential to salvation (note that even Cornelius and his household had to be baptized in water). The baptism of John had served it's purpose of repentance, but was already replaced since Christ's death and would thus not be considered "doctrine".
The word baptisms (Greek baptismos) here is translated later in Heb 9:10 as "washings" as it relates to the OT practice of the sanctified utensils and offerings, which is really more accurate. Baptism, as it relates to Christ is always rendered baptisma. Thus it seems clear that Paul was referring to the  OT ceremonial washings.

Laying of hands too was also found in OT practice when it comes to offering of animal sacrifice and appointment to office (c.f. Lev 3,4; Num 27:18). But it seems in this case, Paul was more referring to the former, since animal sacrifice was a big part of the Old Law and this would be latter contrast with the perfect sacrifice of Jesus in chapter 9.

As for "resurrection of the dead" and "eternal judgement", it seems to be stretching things a bit. But even among the Pharisees, both were taught and believed (Act 24:15; Jud 1:7; implied in the question of the lawyer Luk 10:25). Thus it does not seem so far fetched after all if these were too the foundation tenets of the Old Law.

Bearing in mind that even as the 10 commandments have been made obsolete, the principles therein are eternal and still found in the Law of Christ!

But really, by over scrutinizing the details here is really missing the point Paul is trying to make. The problem Paul was addressing is the fact that the brethren were not maturing but still struggling with the foundational issues. Instead these should have by now been a "given" and they were to build on and move on. A foundation of a building is still there even when the building is completed! One cannot be forever working on the foundation and expect an building to spring up! And worse if one were to overlay the foundation with an old blue print!

Let us continue to be exhorted to grow and mature and not mix our spiritual blue prints up! (c.f. 2Ti 2:15)

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

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6,7

When Ye Ought To Be Teachers

Dear class,

Today's readings are taken from Proverbs 30,31 and Hebrews 5.

Sisters! Do read and put into your heart Pro 31:10-31! It's both a ode to womanhood and a high calling. Keep it close to you and you will do well indeed! (31:29,30)

Hebrews 5 is where Paul begins to highlight the superiority of Christ over the Aaronic priesthood, which we shall examine further as we go into chapter 7.

The last few verses is kind of like a side track, where Paul thought it necessary to interject a rebuke.
Heb 5:11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
Heb 5:12  For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
Heb 5:13  For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
Heb 5:14  But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

The point of focus here is the fact that, yes, all of us will have been babes in Christ, needing to be fed of spiritual milk (1Pe 2:2), but just as growing children, we need to move on to other forms of nutrition. One cannot survive on mother's milk his whole life! In fact, even within mother's milk itself, God has so wonderfully made our body that the composition of the milk actually changes through the course of the baby's growth to suit it's changing nutritional needs!

Do we all then have to be teachers? No. Paul is saying "when for the time ye OUGHT to be teachers" Meaning, when you should have attained the spiritual maturity to qualify as teachers. What the passage also says is that there is a time when we are "unskilled" but we need to grow and mature so that we are able to become "skilled". Growing in the faith means we need to make fewer and fewer mistakes as we improve in discernment. Also implied is the fact that we need to put in effort to grow and not stagnate in our Christian life. Not only we do God and ourselves a disservice, we will also adversely affect the new babes that see our nonchalant, apathetic attitude.

Let us be exhorted and reminded to constantly strive for spiritual growth and maturity and not remain "status quo" or worse, regress in our spiritual status.

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
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6,7

The Righteous

Dear class,

The readings in proverbs 10-12 share the common thread of the righteous. In them we see that:

Pro 10:3 - The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.
God will not forsake the righteous in his needs. Indeed as Jesus exhorted us in Mat 6:25-34, God takes care of His creations! Fret not brethren! God will take care of us.

Pro 10:11 - The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.
The righteous themselves are a blessing to the people around them. Job is a classic example. It is also through the mouths of the righteous preaching the good Word that souls will be saved. We should be using our influence through Christ to bring joy and blessings to the people around us, that God be glorified (Mat 5:16)

Pro 10:16 - The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.
The godly works of the righteous makes his election sure! Not that works in themselves save (c.f. Eph 2:8-10) but the manifestation of obedience, without which one cannot be saved (Rom 6:16; 2Th 1:8). Wherefore James reminded us to demonstrate our faith through works, the latter which without, leaves the former dead! (Jam 2:20,26)
How are we labouring in His vineyard? How have we lived our lives as His workmanship created unto good works? (Eph 2:10)

Pro 10:21 - The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
This passage refers more to the spiritual needs. Indeed, as pointed out, it is through the mouths of the saints that the saving gospel is proclaimed. (Rom 10:13-15) We do God a great disservice by withholding the Messsage! From another angle, one of the roles of the eldership is to feed the flock (Act 20:28). Certainly, a God fearing church leadership is essential to the spiritual nourishment and survival of the local congregation.

Pro 10:24 - The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the righteous shall be granted.
The righteous can be assured of God's blessings! Not to say that we will get what we WANT, but most assuredly what God knows we NEED! The "desire" here must be taken in the context that the righteous would only desire what God desires! And certainly, as Jesus taught, those that hunger and thirst after righteousness shall be filled! (Mat 5:6)

Pro 10:25 -  As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.
And what a foundation is that upon - the very Son of God Himself! The righteous will stand firm because he has learnt to build himself upon the solid rock of Christ. No other foundation can there be if man is to appear righteous and stedfast before God. No other foundation is able to give the righteous the stability in all disturbances thrown at us. No other foundation is from everlasting to everlasting!

Pro 10:28 - The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.
Paul wrote "For we are saved by hope..." (Rom 8:24) The hope of eternal life! Certainly, all those who would be righteous in Christ would as Paul, look forward to the blessed hope of glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ (2Ti 4:8) with joy.

Pro 10:30 - The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.
That is as long as one remain faithful, our estate shall never depart from us. Jesus Himself has prepared a place for us in heaven (Jhn 14:2,3). The righteous will have their part in the book of life and they shall be joint-heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17).

Pro 10:32 - The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.
Indeed, as children of God, we are shun corrupt communication but speak that which edifies and ministers grace to the hearer (Eph 4:29; Col 4:6)! Be reminded brethren! It's so easy for us to loose control of our tongues. Truly as James put it, he who perfectly controls the tongue is the perfect man (Jam 3:2)! Let us be diligent to season our speech with salt and speak that which is acceptable to God.

Pro 11:8 - The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.
God is faithful! He will not suffer us to be tempted above what we are able and would provide a way to the righteous (1Co 10:13). At the end of the day, just as Job came to realise, God has the best interests of the righteous in Him and we should tale comfort in that (c.f. Rom 8:28).

Pro 11:10 - When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.
Sometimes when we read of the bible speaking of trials and persecution, we seem to get the impression Christians are a bunch of hated people! But in truth, just as Jesus has shown, it is possible to be in favor with God and men (Luk 2:52, but note the exact order!) The world in general recognises the good that righteousness brings! Indeed as the proverb writer would go on to say "righteousness exalts a nation" (Pro 14:34). Let us be encouraged and not be weary in well doing (Gal 6:9,10).

Pro 11:21 - Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.
Obviously, every generation is responsible for his actions (c.f. Eze 18:20). Yet, the righteous more often than not, pave a much better way for their descendants to follow in and make them less likely to fall. In the age of the Kings we see how the children of David had "roll over" benefits (c.f. 1Ki 11:12; 2Ki 8:19, etc), yet it did not remove the fact that the beneficiaries had a personal responsibility to make right, just having the benefit of delayed consequences.

Pro 11:23 - The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.
The desire of the truly righteous is what God would desire! Though in context, when we read the 2nd part of the verse that gives the contrast, we can see "desire" as the reward, the outcome. God is generous to those who love Him. And certainly the righteous have the assurance of that heavenly inheritance that ultimately awaits them.

Pro 11:28 - He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.
A sobering reminder to us, especially in our affluent society. Far too often, success is looked upon in materialistic terms. Paul too exhorts the rich not the trust in uncertain riches but lay up in good works (1Ti 6:17-19). That is where our true riches lie. That is where the righteous shall blossom and bear fruit. (Mat 6:19-21;Jhn 15:2-5)

Pro 11:30 - The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
Paul said it all in Rom10:13-15
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
Let us be wise soul winners!

Pro 11:31 - Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.
Our Lord has promised us both physical and spiritual blessings. When taken in another angle, when the righteous are "recompensed" for their sins, it is God's way of chastisement that they might go back on track. We think of spiritual greats like David who have been brought low yet the mercy of the Lord enabled him to hold up his head high again.

Pro 12:3 - A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.
Again, with his foundation upon Chirst, indeed the righteous have no need to worry about instability. The root is where a plant gets it's structural support as well through which, nourishment. So shall Christ be to us that we be not wavering and always well fed!

Pro 12:5 - The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.
"right" here more in the sense of being just as in a well mete out judgement. Where there is without bias or ulterior motive. Such is what we should have if we allow the Word to guide us in our thinking.

Pro 12:7 - The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.
Ultimately, only those rooted in the firm foundation of Christ would be able to stand up in the face of the final judgment.

Pro 12:10 - A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.
A righteous man will take care of God's blessings to him! Even livestock, with whom God has given us dominium over deserves respect and should not be exploited. Unfortunately, these times, humans will not only exploit animals but even their own kind.

Pro 12:12 - The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.
A fitting companion to pro 11:28, in Christ shall the righteous be bountiful! As Jesus spoke of the good soil that gives increase even a hundred fold! (Mat 13:8)

Pro 12:26 - The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.
This verse doesn't suggest a superiority over another but the "excellent" here alludes to the idea of seeking out or spy. It suggest being circumspect and treading with caution. Certainly, in the light of the perverse world we are in, danger lurks in every corner. The righteous would do well to be sober and vigilant (1Pe 5:8), never going about in uncontrolled wantoness, never allowing the devil to lay hold on us.

Let us all strive to be right in the sight of God.

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
As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. ~ Colossians 2:6-8

Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. ~ Colossians 4:6

The Fear of The Lord

Dear class,

Just a quick note on one of the passages in yesterday's readings from Pro 8,9 and 1Corinthians 16.

Pro 9:10 - The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

A simple yet powerful statement that should be central to every Christian's life. As so it's echoed in

Pro 1:7 - The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Which highlights the flip side. By slighting God and His wisdom, we pronounce foolishness on ourselves. Truly, as Jeremiah exclaims, "O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps."

Job 28:28
And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
Job gives a further commentary - to abstain from evil. Paul would even exhort the saints to abstain from all APPEARANCE of evil (1Th 5:23).

Psa 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
Fear is manifested in action! It is also one of the most effective ways to guard against the wiles of the devil and keep ourselves pure.

Ecc 12:13
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
Solomon couldn't have put it any better. It is interesting that the word "duty" is merely implied. The original language expresses the idea of "entirety". Not a mere "obligation".
How then suppose shall we love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength? (Mar 12:30)

Let us let the simple exhortations from the Word of God sink in and affect in us even as we go about our daily endeavours, ever mindful to prepare for eternity.

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

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. ~ Colossians 2:6-8

Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. ~ Colossians 4:6

Baptized For The Dead

Dear class,

Sorry for this back dated post. This is taken from the past 2 day's readings from 1Corinthians 15.

v. 29 is one of the more difficult passages in New Testament. (certainly reminds us of what Peter said of Paul! 2Pe 3:16) But the difficulty is mainly in not able to see the verse in the entirety of the context.
Chapter 15 is basically an affirmation from Paul with regards to the fact and the significance of the resurrection, first of Christ and then of the deceased.
Paul starts off with the crux of the gospel - the death, burial and resurrection of Christ (1Co 15:1-4). Indeed if Christ be not raised, then all is vain! (1Co 15:14-19)
This it is in this background that we understand v.29 as part of the manifold arguments that Paul put forth why Christians have the confidence to 1) be in peril for Christ (v.30) 2) suffer and die for Christ (v.31) 3) fight for Christ (v.32) 4) live a sober, sinless life (v.32-34).

Some have argued that the "baptism" here refers to suffering (c.f. Mat 20:22,23). And it seems plausible with the verses that follow.
Some have argued that Paul could refer to people who held on to the hope that they would see their loved ones who have passed on. (though presumably this must have been a side motivation, since to be baptized for this sole reason wouldn't exactly constitute true belief!)
Some have even held the belief that one could be baptized on behalf of those who have passed on!

The bible obviously teaches us that we are PERSONALLY accountable for our actions and salvation. (Mark 16:16; Jhn 12:48; Rom 2:16; Gal 6:7, etc) No one can save another by proxy!
As pointed out by bro Danny in his sermon, the only chance to prepare for eternity personally is in this life. Once we die, it is a DONE DEAL! So the idea of "proxy baptism" is erroneous and merely a doctrine stemming from man's willful disregard of the authority of God.

When we see the argument in it's entirety and not just focus on Paul peculiar use of language here, it becomes easier to see that Paul was basically referring as a whole to the dire states that Christians subject themselves to in the hope of the resurrection in Christ. It is the resurrection that makes us victorious over the "last enemy" (v. 26). Baptism here is seen as a culminating expression of the obedience to the gospel and the entire Christian life. So one could see it as Paul making his opening shot with "Why are we living in Christ to prepare to die, if we do not have the assurance of a resurrection?" Upon which he goes on to elaborate the trials and sufferings of a Christian. Why bother to obey the gospel only to suffer and finally die? How can then be death be overcome if there be no resurrection? Paul's vivid rhetoric reinforces the reader's notions that YES! indeed, because Christ was raised, we obey the gospel, we are baptized into Christ, we live a faithful Christian life, yea, we prepare to die so that we too will be part of the resurrected harvest, in which Christ was first reaped.(v.20,23)

God help us all to put those thoughts continually in our minds, that we be not weary in living a faithful Christian life, but with a joyous, eager anticipation of that glorious day when we shall meet our Lord.

The Lord bless our day ahead.

in Him
Paul


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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
As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. ~ Colossians 2:6-8

Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. ~ Colossians 4:6