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GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What are some tips for faster spiritual growth?

What are some tips for faster spiritual growth?

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR FASTER SPIRITUAL GROWTH?

by Shawn Brasseaux

In this Bible study, we will provide five critical (!), invaluable (!) tips that this author has discovered over the course of his Christian life these last nearly 25 years. This advice enabled him to escape the shackles of religious tradition (denominationalism) and exit the spiritual nursery. Doubtless, he is thoroughly honored and delighted to share that guidance with you now! (If he had the time to rewrite these statements 50,000 times, he would do so to drive these points home with you. They cannot be emphasized enough. They cannot be stressed enough. They cannot be underscored enough.) Dear saint, prayerfully consider these suggestions. They are well (!) worth (!) your attention!

1. DAILY (!), PERSONAL (!) EXPOSURE TO SCRIPTURE IS CHIEF!

Acts 17:10-11 reports, “And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Our spiritual body should be growing as it consumes the Word of God daily (daily!): “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16). “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

Daily (!) repetition (!) of (!) Scripture (!) is essential to proper spiritual growth. It is not enough to read the Bible once or twice a week. The only time many people read Scripture is when they attend church services—and, frankly, their ignorance shows. All they are able to do is quote their preacher, priest, or church/denomination. They cannot think about the Scriptures themselves, or teach it to others. It is an unfamiliar Book to them, far too mysterious and intimidating for them to handle. Hence, they are trapped in spiritual childishness. This is most unfortunate… and Almighty God is not to blame!

Christian friend, as an English-speaking person, you should read (!) the Authorized Version King James Bible every (!) day (!). It contains every verse that belongs in the Bible, every verse is based on the correct Hebrew and Greek texts, and every verse has been translated using the proper techniques. Older English, while more difficult to learn, is actually purer and more descriptive than modern English. Never forget that, regardless of who may tell you otherwise, the King James Bible is theologically and linguistically superior to modern English translations! It is your connection to your Protestant forefathers, going straight back to the Apostle Paul. Never forget that it is the text that the Roman Catholic Church so vehemently opposed during the Reformation, and resists still!

Moreover, you should also study (!) the King James Bible every (!) day (!). “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). If you are to gain the profit God the Holy Spirit put into His Word, you must compare verses with verses, and remember their dispensational settings as you go. Paul is “the apostle of the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13), the Lord Jesus Christ’s spokesman to us today in this “the Dispensation of the Grace of God” (Ephesians 3:1-2). Romans through Philemon, the Holy Spirit writing through the Apostle Paul, describes God’s purpose and plan for us today as members of the Church the Body of Christ. The most basic Book for Christian living today is Romans. Never forget that!

Remember, we are not in a competition with others. We do not aim to see if we can read or learn more Scripture than anyone else and everyone else. Some souls strive to read through the Bible two or three or four times a year—and this is often nothing but grounds for vain boasting. This author knows of people who have read through the Bible four times a year, for many years, and they are still beginners in the Scriptures and Christian living. He even knows a brother who read through the Bible nearly 200 times—and that man holds to some extremely bizarre doctrines. If you want to read the Bible through several times a year, fine, but that does not necessarily equal spirituality. Unless you are willing to first cast off your denominational biases and continue purifying your mind with Scripture verses, continual Bible reading will profit you nothing.

It is not enough to own a Bible; you need a King James Bible.
It is not enough to read a King James Bible; you need to study it.
It is not enough to study a King James Bible; you need to rightly divide it.
It is not enough to rightly divide a King James Bible; you need to believe it.
It is not enough to believe a King James Bible; you need to teach it.
It is not enough to teach a King James Bible; you need to guard it.
It is not enough to hold a King James Bible; you need to never (!) surrender it!

Never, ever forget that, dear saint! Never!

2. BE WILLING TO BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT!

Do not hesitate to be “filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18) and “walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16). Let us pause for a moment here and clarify these terms that denominationalism has wholly abused. This is not (!) some fuzzy feeling, an emotional high, an occasion for jumping pews, an utterance or prayer of gibberish, a dancing episode, an inner impression, or a time for raising hands. Being filled with the Spirit and walking in the Spirit are: (1) our submission to God the Holy Spirit as He teaches us when we read the Bible for ourselves, and (2) our yielding to Him so He takes those verses and makes them a reality in our lives. In short, it is our reckoning of our old identity or sin (Adamic) nature as having no control over us, and our recognizing our complete victory over sin as we walk by faith in an intelligent understanding of the principles of God’s grace.

Romans chapters 6–8 go into great detail about how we are “in Christ”—dead to sin and alive unto God. In your own time, read them carefully and prayerfully. As the Holy Spirit uses the Holy Scriptures to renew our mind (see 1 Corinthians 2:1-16), He will cause Christ’s life to be lived in and through us. That existence is described in chapters 12–16, among other places (Ephesians 5:19–6:9, Galatians 5:13–6:10, Ephesians 4:17-32, et cetera). Consult also the Book of Titus, which can be summarized in chapter 2, verses 11-15: “[11] For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, [12] Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; [13] Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; [14] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. [15] These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.”

3. LOCATE PREACHERS AND TEACHERS WHO ARE GROWING AT A STEADY, REASONABLE RATE!

One of the most ignored keys to increased maturation in the Word of God is the avoidance of preachers and teachers who themselves are not making steady, reasonable progress in their own understanding of the Scriptures. It is common sense to conclude that a preacher or teacher who is immature in the Word cannot mature anyone else in the Word. If he is maturing in the Word, but moving at a “snail’s pace,” you cannot expect him to help you grow any faster either. This author came to terms with that reality long ago.

For years, both in denominational groups and grace circles, this author sat under men who were growing far too slow for him or who had stopped growing entirely in the Bible. He hungered to learn more so he could then teach others more, so he had to break away from these ministries. These men brought him as far as they could in the Scriptures, and he will always be grateful to the Lord for them. However, they had (have) blind spots and he was (is) willing to see light they had (have) overlooked. He was (is) willing to study Bible passages they never seemed (seem) to touch. Moreover, he was (is) desiring to go deeper into the verses than they went (go). Once he separated from them, his spiritual growth skyrocketed. Even now, he yearns to grow more in the Scriptures, better understanding His Father’s purpose and plan for him, that he may tell as many people as he possibly can about how it is God’s purpose and plan for them too.

Furthermore, we must be careful associating with ministries led by people who “cannot see the forest from the trees.” In other words, they become so bogged down or involved in details that they lose sight of the whole matter. How unfortunate it is that we have church leaders going into so much detail that they spend five or more years teaching a single Bible Book (a task that should have taken less). At that rate, their congregation will not finish the entire canon of Scripture within their lifetime! In fact, a brother in Christ just shared with this author the fact that a pastor he knew spent 10 hours (10 Sundays) introducing his latest sermon project. By the time the pastor finished the introduction, the brother could not even remember the point of the project!

To any church leaders who are reading this, let us provide a word of caution. Over the years, through personal preaching and teaching (audible and written), this author has learned to deliver sermons and pen Bible studies that stay on-topic and get to the point. Clarity and conciseness are absolutely critical when it comes to the Bible, for enough people are frustrated and confused in the Scriptures. Indeed, it can be quite tempting to detour into all kinds of tangential or unrelated matters. While a joke or illustration will indeed lighten and brighten the mood, they can get out of hand rather easily, so greatly limit jokes or illustrations unless they are absolutely necessary. Some men in the pulpit gain a reputation for telling numerous jokes and/or relating countless stories, and precious time is wasted on foolishness when the eternal words of God could have gone forth and strengthened weak souls and enlightened darkened minds!

We turn to Ephesians chapter 4 to learn the purpose of the local assembly: “[11] And he [the ascended Lord Jesus Christ] gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; [12] For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: [13] Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: [14] That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; [15] But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: [16] From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.”

Precious Christian friend, if you sit under the ministries of teachers and preachers who are growing slowly in the Word, do not expect to fare any better in your understanding. Should you choose to remain in that assembly and abide in that atmosphere, you will have to do your own personal Bible study if you expect to reach spiritual maturity. Attending such assemblies will eventually become counterproductive, so be advised if you prefer to stay there.

4. AVOID AS MANY STUMBLINGBLOCKS AS YOU POSSIBLY CAN!

Get as far away as possible from people who will hinder your spiritual growth—and that would include denominational Christians and even some so-called “grace” people. Their carnality or fleshliness will serve as a stumblingblock to you, an occasion to sin in doctrine and/or deed. Mark these words, dear friend, and never forget them: you will eventually be ensnared (1 Corinthians 15:33-34). Do not take this lightly, or you will live to regret it. Continue uniting with these groups or individuals at your own spiritual peril!

First Corinthians chapter 5 cautions us to avoid unruly, sinful Christian brethren, lest they inspire us to join them in their ungodly activities. Local churches should especially deal with sin in their midst; otherwise, it spread to infect the whole group. “[1] It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife. [2] And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. [3] For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, [4] In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, [5] To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. [6] Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?

“[7] Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: [8] Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. [9] I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: [10] Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. [11] But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolator, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. [12] For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? [13] But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.”

Not only must we watch out for people who will negatively impact us with their wicked behavior, we have to exercise caution not to fellowship with people who will negatively influence us with their false teaching (denominationalism, church tradition). If it is not the Bible rightly divided, it is bad doctrine, and we have no (!) business (!) whatsoever (!) getting involved with it or its supporters!! Mark these words well, dear Christian friend, mark them well.

Galatians chapter 5 contains God the Holy Spirit’s rebuke of grace believers following false teachers (legalists, people who use the Bible [Moses] but do not rightly divide it): “[7] Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? [8] This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. [9] A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. [10] I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.” Bad doctrine is like leaven or yeast; it spreads to contaminate the whole group! If we are not vigilant, non-dispensational Bible study will not only destroy our local assembly, it will obliterate our spiritual edification and Christian life. Never underestimate the great lengths Satan will go to thwart God’s work!

5. LIMIT YOUR EXPOSURE TO WORLDLY WISDOM! 

King Solomon expressed his frustration in Ecclesiastes 12:12: “And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.” The entire Book of Ecclesiastes is a record of how Solomon dabbled in a variety of philosophical observations and speculations. He had investigated the world through human (fleshly) eyes. Solomon sought happiness and fulfillment in all kinds of places. Upon the conclusion of his experiment, he wound up throughly disoriented and utterly disappointed. He witnessed events he wished he had not. Solomon got involved with all sorts of temporary pleasures—only to end up completely confused and immensely disturbed. Wholly exhausted and immeasurably burdened, Solomon is now an old man. Having wasted his life with nonsense, he is frail and dying, attempting to reason with his son not to repeat his mistakes. Many Christians, had they learned this lesson, would not be in the spiritual mess they are currently in.

Friend, “weariness” will afflict you too if you spend too much time thinking like a lost person when you should be concentrating on the Scriptures. In today’s world, so many authorities and sources of information competing with the Bible for our loyalty. There are myriads of distractions at every turn and around every corner, all vying for our attention. Here again is Satan’s evil world system, attempting to seduce us as it did Solomon 3,000 years ago. We must be on guard, or our edification will be ruined. Be careful!

When this life is over, the average Christian will have squandered years upon years—yea, decades upon decades—watching television, surfing the internet, gossiping on the telephone, reading theology books, and so on, when they could have been studying their Bible. Their inner man will be so polluted with spiritual garbage. Ignorant of the things of God, they will be experts in conspiracy theories, rumors, opinions, speculations, amusement, hunches, and so on. Hopefully, dear Christian friend, you will not be one of these miserable souls! You may not realize it now, but it will greatly help you if you heed these warnings. One day, you will look back on this and be so thankful that you paid attention here.

As we started off this article, so we draw it to a close. Reading and studying the Bible itself are vital. This cannot be emphasized enough. Familiarize yourself with your Heavenly Father’s words, especially the Pauline epistles, Romans through Philemon. Start in the Book of Romans. Read—and most importantly, believe in your heart—what you read! It will make a positive difference in your thoughts and life if you let it!

SUPPLEMENTAL: SOME PARTING COUNSEL

Philippians chapter 3 tells us to press onward in spiritual growth: “[8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, [9] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: [10] That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; [11] If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. [12] Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 

“[13] 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, [14] I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. [15] Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. [16] Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.

“[17] Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. [18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: [19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) [20] For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [21] Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”

Philippians describes the Christian life as a race being run. We Christians see the finish line—the prize or goal (Jesus Christ living His life in and through us)—and we want to reach it. That is, we are athletes in the spiritual world and we must therefore cast off whatever weighs us down or holds us back from attaining that goal—“heavy clothing,” “junk food,” “obesity,” et cetera. The circumcision saints, Israel’s believing remnant, are encouraged to do the same in Hebrews chapter 12: “[1] 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, [2] 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. [3] For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.”

First Timothy chapter 4 is the Apostle Paul writing to and about us members of the Church the Body of Christ: “[6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. [7] But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. [8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. [9] This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. [10] For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe. [11] These things command and teach.”

It is absolutely imperative (!), Christian friend, that you train yourself in the right doctrine (what produces “godliness”), or your inner man will be malnourished and unable to run the race of Philippians chapter 3! If you do not divorce yourself as much as possible from the aforementioned encumbrances—spiritual junk food (denominational teaching, false doctrine) and bad spiritual influences (immature or carnal believers, as well as lost people)—you will regret it. Your Christian life will die, unable to function. God’s best to you, friend! 🙂

Also see:
» What are “evil communications” in 1 Corinthians 15:33?
» Can you explain Philippians 3:14?
» What is the Lord’s will for my Christian life?
» How do I know if I am maturing in the Word of God?

Exactly what is “eternal life?”, GOD, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING

Exactly what is “eternal life?”

EXACTLY WHAT IS “ETERNAL LIFE?”

by Shawn Brasseaux

Just as death is not the cessation of existence, eternal life is not simply living forever. Lost people live in eternal hellfire forever, yet they are eternally dead. The word “death” in Scripture means “separation.” While there are various types of death in the Bible, they all have that basic definition of separation. Once we understand this, then we are able to comprehend what life—especially true life, or eternal life—entails.

For example, consider Romans chapter 4: “[18] Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. [19] And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb: [20] He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;….” Abraham and Sarah were both certainly alive in Genesis chapter 17. Yet, their old age had resulted in sterility and barrenness. Abraham’s body and Sarah’s body were separated from their procreation ability. It was not that they lost their reproductive organs; those organs, while present, were functionally dead, separated from their purpose.

Physical death occurs when the spiritual body (soul and spirit) separates from the body of flesh and blood. Genesis 35:18 describes this as such: “And it came to pass, as her soul was in departing, (for she died) that she called his name Ben-oni: but his father called him Benjamin.” Physical death does not result in becoming nonexistent; it is a separation of the human spirit and soul from the physical body. Again, death is separation.

Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” We would do well to notice that “wages” is a plural noun; sin causes two deaths. One death is physical death, which is what we already covered. The other is spiritual death, when the spirit of man (as an individual) is unable to commune with the Spirit of God. Here again is a type of separation: man is spiritually separated from his Creator. There is no unity or fellowship between the two. You may read 1 Corinthians 2:9-16 to learn how sin has made the spirit of man incompatible with the Spirit of God.

Ephesians chapter 2 speaks to this point of spiritual death: “[1] And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; [2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: [3] Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.” You will see, here also, the issue of eternal life. When a lost person trusts Christ as his or her personal Saviour, the person can connect with Almighty God as Adam did before the Fall of man in Genesis chapter 3.

There is also positional death. As people who have trusted Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection as sufficient payment for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3-4); we have been crucified with Him and been raised again with Him. Romans chapter 6 speaks about positional death: “[1] What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? [2] God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? [3] Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? [4] Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. [5] For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: [6] Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. [7] For he that is dead is freed from sin.”

We are “dead to sin” in that we are no longer “in Adam.” God has reckoned us separated from Adam’s damnation; we are now a “new creature in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This new nature produces good works, as opposed to the old nature of sin that could produce nothing pleasing to God. Again, this is positional death. Through personal faith in Christ’s finished crosswork, our position “in Adam” has been exchanged for our position “in Christ.” Now, we have the ability to be vessels of God’s power and exhibitions of His grace!

There is one final “death” (separation) in the Bible. We have covered functional death, physical death, spiritual death, and positional death. The last “death” is “the second death,” and it is connected to spiritual death. While a lost or unsaved soul on Earth is spiritually dead—separated from God’s life—that can be remedied by personal faith in the Gospel of Grace (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). If that spiritual death is not replaced with eternal life before physical death arrives, that spiritual death will be replaced with the second death. As the spiritual body separates from the physical body, now the spiritual body separates from God’s Spirit forever. All hope of ever gaining a right standing before God is now permanently gone. The second death occurs when the lost souls in Hell are judged, and then tossed into the Lake of Fire.

Revelation chapter 20 mentions “the second death:” “[11] And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. [12] And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. [13] And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. [14] And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. [15] And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Also, Revelation 21:8: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”

With all that said, we can now define what “eternal life” is all about. Again, “eternal life” is much more than “life without end” or “living forever,” for lost people under God’s eternal wrath live forever. They are not consumed in Hell, but are transferred to the Lake of Fire to serve out their sentence without end.

John 17:3 is the best definition of “eternal life” in the Bible: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” Here is a personal relationship with the one true God through His Son Jesus Christ. This is the demolition of the barrier that sin has erected between sinners and their Creator. Romans 6:23 once again: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Whereas we were once separated from God, we are now united with Him forever through Christ! With that new nature, we can now experience “eternal life” on a daily basis. Contrary to popular belief, eternal life is not dying and going to Heaven; it is experiencing God’s life right now on Earth!

Romans 5:21 says of victorious Christian living: “That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.” Chapter 6, verse 23, is actually about victorious Christian living also: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Moreover, 1 Timothy 6:12: “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” And, verses 19-20: “That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” This is daily Christian living, a reflection of the new nature we have been given in Christ!

Read Mark chapter 10 now: “[28] Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee. [29] And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, [30] But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.” In Israel’s prophetic program—her earthly kingdom program—the word “eternal life” takes on a slightly different meaning than it does concerning us. “Eternal life” for them is the entrance into that earthly kingdom of God. They do not experience communion with Almighty God to the fullest extent until the Millennium (1,000-Year Reign of Christ), when Israel is under the New Covenant, nationally resurrected, and God causes them to enjoy His life to the maximum.

Ezekiel chapter 36 says of this New Covenant for Israel: “[25] Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. [26] A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. [28] And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.” (See also Jeremiah 31:31-34.)

Like us Christians today, believing Jews in Israel’s prophetic program (whether in Acts or beyond our dispensation) have eternal life as a present possession—otherwise, they would be Hell-bound! Notice these verses from the epistle of 1 John: “And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life” (2:25). “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son” (5:11). “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God” (5:13). “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life” (5:20). Yet, there is a national eternal life they will enjoy as well… and this is their earthly kingdom. Jude 21 is redeemed Israel waiting for Christ’s Second Coming, when they receive eternal life nationally: “Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.”

One more thing about “eternal life:” it is the life of Jesus Christ, the life that God Himself lived during His earthly ministry. This is the same life He wants to live in Israel by faith, and what He wants to live in us by faith. Eternal life is living as God lives, enjoying His life. Both redeemed Israel and the Church the Body of Christ will be the vehicles whereby He exhibits that life throughout the endless ages to come!

“[1] That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; [2] (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us; ) [3] That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:1-3).

Also see:
» What happens after death?
» Will living in Heaven forever be boring?
» “So shall we ever be with the Lord?”

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What are “evil communications” in 1 Corinthians 15:33?

What are “evil communications” in 1 Corinthians 15:33?

WHAT ARE “EVIL COMMUNICATIONS” IN 1 CORINTHIANS 15:33? DOES IT REALLY MATTER WITH WHOM WE ASSOCIATE?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“[33] Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. [34] Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame” (1 Corinthians 15:33-34). What are “evil communications?” Does it really matter if we associate with questionable characters? Yes! Are we immune to their effects? No!

Once, this author counseled a dear Christian who was having some major and continuous difficulties. We were able to identify the source and we studied verses that were useful in correcting his thinking and behavior. Moreover, this author encouraged him to limit his contact with certain “friends.” Perhaps they meant well—hopefully so (!)—but they were negative spiritual influences. They were offering their denominational doctrine to help him cope with his problems, but such false teaching had only made matters worse for him.

First Corinthians 15:33 begins, “Be not deceived; evil communications corrupt good manners.” It is easy to assume that, since we who have trusted Christ are eternally secure in Him, we are immune from Satan’s lie program. Yea, we can be quick to suppose that no one can trick us because we have the Holy Bible in our possession. First Corinthians 15:33 says that, if we think others cannot deceive or corrupt us, we are in fact deceived. For example, we can hear sound Bible doctrine but fail to keep it in memory and/or fail to use it by faith. People can come along with incorrect information and confuse and/or distract us. This happened to the Corinthians.

The Apostle Paul spent 18 months in Corinth, winning various individuals to Christ and educating them in the Bible rightly divided (Acts 18:1-11). The church at Corinth was established and growing, but Satan would not be outdone. Once Paul left to preach the Gospel of Grace in other regions, false teachers visited and corrupted the Corinthian saints with a mixture of Greek philosophy and Judaistic legalism.

Consequently, some Corinthians recanted faith in the doctrine of literal, bodily resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:12). Therefore, they were under the impression that they could live however they wanted. The latter part of verse 32 says, “…let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.” If there were no resurrection, there would be no accountability. First Corinthians 15:33 thus immediately follows with a warning: “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners….”

Ordinarily, we use the term “communications” in the sense of telephone and internet connections or television and radio broadcasts. In this context though, it has a slightly different meaning. The most basic definition of “communications” is “the impartations or exchanges of information.” Concerning 1 Corinthians 15:33, it means “company, social contacts, intercourses, companionships, associates.” Moreover, we can restrict its definition even more: “to succeed in conveying one’s ideas or in evoking understanding in others.” (“Communication” is derived from a Latin word that meant “to share.”) As for “manners” in 1 Corinthians 15:33, it means “moral habits, social behavior, conduct amongst others.”

Rereading the first part of 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” In other words, do not be misled to believe that Satan’s evil world system cannot contaminate you by word or deed. Christian friend, always be on guard concerning those with whom you associate yourself. Those not led by the Spirit of God can and will corrupt you. Proverbs chapter 22 provides us with a very simple example of and cross-reference to “evil communications corrupt[s] good morals:” “[24] Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: [25] Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.”

While we are always responsible for making our own choices, others can influence us to participate in their sins. They can persuade us to adopt their beliefs, and/or entice us to repeat their actions. This was the Corinthians’ problem in 1 Corinthians 15:33. They had been fooled into thinking their companionships, the company they kept, made no difference. Many Christians believe this even today. It is said so casually, “I can hang around with anyone, no matter how they talk or act. They will not adversely affect me. I can frequent a denominational church. No one will mislead me because I know the truth.” First Corinthians 15:33 says they are deceived just by assuming they will not be deceived! Beware!

First Corinthians 15:33 resumes, “Awake to righteousness, and sin not.” Here, “awake” means (figuratively) “to rouse out of a stupor.” Imagine a drunkard becoming sober, restored to clear thinking. In other words, false teaching had lulled the Corinthians to sleep. They were slumbering—inactive—as pertaining to Christian living. Rather than walking according to the Holy Spirit’s current operations, they thought and behaved as the Adversary (Satan) desired. Some years later, a similar satanic assault was launched on the Christians at Ephesus.

Chapter 5 of Ephesians: “[7] Be not ye therefore partakers with them [the “children of disobedience,” unbelievers, of verse 6]. [8] For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: [9] (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth; ) [10] Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. [11] And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. [12] For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.”

“[13] But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. [14] Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. [15] See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, [16] Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. [17] Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. [18] And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;….”

Notice the advice in verse 18—“Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” The “wine” here is not simply literal alcohol. It is, more specifically, the intoxicating doctrines of devils that distort and dull one’s spiritual senses to the point of spiritual drunkenness and fainting. This loops back to the “awakening” in 1 Corinthians 15:33.

Returning to Ephesians chapter 5: “[14] Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. [15] See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, [16] Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. [17] Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. [18] And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;….”

The issue of “wine” is explained in Revelation 14:8: “And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” Also, Revelation 17:2: “With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication.” The Antichrist’s political-religious system, while future from our day, nevertheless has elements that have been around since just after the Fall of man. Satan’s evil world system promotes mind-altering doctrines that corrupt believers. There is spiritual fornication, dabbling with devils, here. It enticed the Corinthians, lured the Ephesians, and even ensnared ancient Israel.

Ephesians 5:14, which we just read, loosely quoted Isaiah 60:1: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.” This is Israel, gripped by spiritual ignorance and slumber, and God’s conversion and restoration of her at Christ’s Second Coming. Notice God’s warning to His people who will live during the Antichrist’s reign, and the final phases of religious Babylon: “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues” (Revelation 18:4). Yes, “evil communications corrupt good manners.” God’s people are not to be associated with Satan’s evil world system… past, present, or future!

If it happened to Israel, to the Corinthians, and to the Ephesians, we indeed are not immune. Romans chapter 13 reminds us: “[11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. [12] The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. [13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness [sexual sins], not in strife and envying. [14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.”

Since the Lord Jesus Christ could come at any time for us at the Rapture, we should be walking as the people we are instead of who we are not. It is absurd for us Christians to behave like we were still under “the power of darkness” (Colossians 1:13): we have been “translated… into the kingdom of [God’s] dear Son.” We should conduct ourselves in that light.

Hence, in 1 Corinthians 15:34, Paul wrote to Corinth: “Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.” They were to sober up, spiritually speaking, and start thinking according to Romans chapter 13 (quoted earlier). Jesus Christ was their “righteousness” (1 Corinthians 1:30). They were to think about their justified and sanctified identity in Him, and walk by faith in that. This is how they would “sin not.” The Word of God’s Grace to them through Paul’s ministry—not Greek philosophers and Judaistic legalists—was the key to successful Christian living.

First Corinthians 15:34 concludes, “…for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.” The Corinthians should be ashamed to the point of correcting their error. They should separate from “evil communications” (bad influences). Paul had preached to them, but they ignored the doctrine. They wasted the opportunity to know God’s grace, but they have another chance.

For almost 2,000 years now, the Church the Body of Christ has had a completed Bible. Howbeit, instead of letting it transform them, and then allowing it to enlighten others through them, the church permitted the world to alter the Bible and them! Whether 20 centuries ago, or today, “evil communications corrupt good manners.” This is true of both wicked behavior and false teaching.

Sinful conduct, except it is addressed according to God’s grace, will certainly pollute the local church. First Corinthians chapter 5 says of humanism (worldliness—namely, philosophy): “[6] Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? [7] Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: [8] Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” As a small amount of yeast taints the whole lump of dough, so a little misbehavior corrupts many! If you read the chapter, you see it is about a fornicating Christian man whom the Corinthians overlooked. God commanded they excommunicate him until he reformed…lest he contaminate them all!

Evil doctrine, unless corrected using rightly divided Scripture, is sure to corrupt the local church. Galatians chapter 5 speaks of legalism (works-religion—namely, Law-keeping): “[7] Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? [8] This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. [9] A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.” As a small amount of yeast taints the whole lump of dough, so a little false teaching corrupts many! If you read the chapter, you learn that false teachers (denominationalists) had tricked the Galatians to abandon grace and return to works-religion (specifically, the Mosaic Law). God commanded they separate from those false teachers…lest they continue deceiving them all!

CONCLUSION

First Corinthians chapter 5 was written to warn those Christians who say they can associate with sinful individuals and not be corrupted. Galatians chapter 5 was written to admonish those Christians who say they can keep attending denominational churches and not be deceived. They are just as human—prone to failure—as the Corinthians and Galatians. If the Corinthians and Ephesians were prone to spiritual slumber as the Adversary worked, we should not be surprised that believers in Christ today exhibit poor to dead Christian living!

Verse 34 of 1 Corinthians chapter 15 thunders, “Awake to righteousness, and sin not!” Dear brethren, if we are those with functionally-dead Christian lives, it is not too late for us to reform. We may have reverted to the lifestyle we had before we trusted Christ, but the Holy Scriptures rightly divided can lead us to repentance. That change in mind will then transform our behavior.

Second Timothy chapter 2: “[24] And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, [25] In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; [26] And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” Let us not fall into Satan’s trap!

Whether the Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, or reverted Christians today, they should be walking in light of Titus chapter 2: “[11] For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, [12] Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; [13] Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; [14] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.”

“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20).

Also see:
» Is grace a “license to sin?”
» Once Christians fall into gross sin, will God use them again?
» Does God see us Christians as sinners?

DISPENSATIONAL BIBLE STUDY, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What Bible Book should I read first?

What Bible Book should I read first?

WHAT BIBLE BOOK SHOULD I READ FIRST?

by Shawn Brasseaux

My friend, Romans 11:13 tells us! “For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office.” People new to the Bible should begin in the Book of Romans.

Second Timothy chapter 3 contains the most well-known Bible verses: “[15] And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. [16] All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: [17] That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

The Lord Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). “Every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” actually defines “given by inspiration of God.” God the Holy Spirit spoke words, and He wrote them down and preserved them for us in our language. In English, that is the King James Bible (or, “Authorized Version”). Other languages have their own version, but they do not concern us here.

Second Timothy 3:16 affirms three primary purposes of Scripture—“doctrine” (tell us what we should believe), “reproof” (show us what we are doing wrong), and “correction” (remedy our bad thinking). These three elements will “instruct [teach] us in righteousness.” They will show us how God wants us to live, “that [purpose or intent] the man of God may be perfect, [not sinless but] throughly furnished unto all good works” (verse 17). The Holy Bible alone teaches us everything God wants us to believe, and it equips us to do everything He wants us to accomplish. Authority is not in church councils, preachers, priests, popes, doctrinal statements, hunches, impressions, creeds, et cetera. The authority is in the written Word of God, the Holy Scriptures.

In light of God’s present-day dealings with mankind, there is a special way to use the Bible text. Failure to approach Holy Writ, God’s way, will cause us more damage than had we never read the Bible. Friends, we must remember Romans 11:13 if we are to make sense of all Scripture. Romans begins with a name—“Paul.” The Holy Spirit led this Paul to pen Romans 11:13. When we come to him in the Bible, especially his conversion in Acts chapter 9; we read about the risen, ascended, and glorified Lord Jesus Christ from Heaven reaching down and saving a man who will become His spokesman to all the world.

Acts 26:16-18 were these words of Christ to Saul: “[16] But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; [17] Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee [apostolos = “sent one”], [18] To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.”

Paul thus articulates in Romans 11:11-13: “[11] I say then, Have they [Israel] stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. [12] Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? [13] For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:”

With Israel’s temporary fall, salvation is coming to us Gentiles (non-Jews) through Paul’s ministry. Hence, we must go to Paul’s epistles, or letters of doctrine, to read about that salvation. While his ministry begins in Acts chapter 9, we do not read his writings in the Bible until after Acts—the Book of Romans. In other words, Romans is the most fundamental information that God gave to Paul to give us Gentiles.

It is usually said that people should start reading God’s Word in the Book of John. However well meaning this is, it is spiritually hazardous. Christ’s earthly ministry, Matthew through John, was to and about the nation Israel, not us Gentiles: “I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 15:24). Moreover, John’s goal is confirming to Israel that Jesus is her Messiah because He conducted a ministry of signs, special teaching miracles, in her midst (see John 20:30-31). “The Jews [not us Gentiles] require a sign” (1 Corinthians 1:22).

Paul is God’s messenger to us non-Jews (Romans 11:13). Ephesians 3:1-2 elaborates: “For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward….” Romans 16:25-26 says God wants to “stablish” (stabilize) us Gentiles using three components: (1) Paul’s Gospel, (2) the preaching of Jesus Christ according to the revelation of the mystery, and (3) the Scriptures of the prophets. Paul’s Gospel is laid out first, and most clearly, in the Bible in the Book of Romans, the head, or introductory book, of his 13 epistles (Romans through Philemon).

Romans is divided into four sections. Chapters 1-5 deal with justification, or how to have our sins forgiven and a home in heaven. Chapters 6-8 discuss sanctification, or how that Gospel of Grace has changed our identity from Adam to Christ. Chapters 9-11 covers dispensational changes—we are not the nation Israel, but rather the Church the Body of Christ, with Israel still having a future in God’s program. Chapters 12-16 are application, or how we are to by faith use the grace principles in Romans so our lives can glorify our Lord and Saviour!

Friend, you will not mature in grace if you begin the Bible in the wrong place. Using John as an introduction to the Bible will hinder you from laying the Scriptural foundation God intended for you. Start in Romans!

Also see:
» I am new to the Bible, so where should I begin?
» Must one be a “King James Bible Pauline dispensationalist” to have eternal life?
» Should we use the Book of John in evangelism?

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What exactly is “hypocrisy?”

What exactly is “hypocrisy?”

WHAT EXACTLY IS “HYPOCRISY?”

by Shawn Brasseaux

What exactly is a “hypocrite?”

The word appears 20 times in the “New Testament” Scriptures. Matthew 6:2 is the first occurrence: “Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” Our English “hypocrite” is a transliteration of the Greek term, hupokrites (“under judge”). It was used to describe an actor under an assumed identity. He or she wears a costume, mask, and/or makeup to transform into someone else. To be candid, he or she is a pretender. It would do us well to look at these verses to see just what makes hypocrites so insincere.

Reading Matthew 6:2 again: “Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” Here, a hypocrite gives alms (money/goods to the poor and needy)—not to help others or glorify God—but to be noticed and praised of men.

Matthew 6:5 mentions a second type of hypocrite: “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” They pray—not to have fellowship with God or reflect upon His Word—but to be observed and praised by others.

Verse 16 features a third hypocrite: “Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” The hypocrite here also seeks the attention and glory of men—they advertise their fasting by using their faces. They are not interested in true mourning, deep contemplation of their sin, and so on.

Just as someone would play another role on a stage, so the hypocrite “plays his part” for all society to give him a standing ovation.

Christ famously stated in Matthew chapter 7: “[1] Judge not, that ye be not judged. [2] For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. [3] And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? [4] Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? [5] Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” The hypocrite appears to promote righteous living. However, his lifestyle is far below the standard to which he holds others.

Jesus took what was true during the Prophet Isaiah’s lifetime and applied it to His own day 700 years later. He issued the following severe denunciation in Matthew chapter 15: “[7] Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias [29:13] prophesy of you, saying, [8] This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. [9] But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”

Israel abounded with pretenders. Outwardly, they prayed to “Adonai” (the Lord), recited the Mosaic Law, and sang the Psalms of David. Yet, their internal behavior was something else entirely. The Lord Jesus saw directly into their souls: while acting and sounding like worshippers of God, they had no faith/trust in His Word. It was just meaningless, worthless religion! They actually preferred their manmade traditions to His revelation. How do we know? Did not Israel shortly conspire with the Gentiles to kill Adonai’s Son on Calvary? Had they truly valued the Scriptures of Adonai and Moses and David, they would have believed Jesus was the embodiment and fulfillment of those very words! Alas, what hypocrites.

Our Lord Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry is winding down—Calvary is a few months away at most. For three years, He has performed miracle after miracle after miracle in the midst of His Jewish brethren, but has been overwhelmingly mistreated and ridiculed. Israel’s religious leaders have striven to demean and discredit Him at every possible opportunity. In Matthew chapter 12, for the first time, they plot to kill Him (verse 14). Shortly, He begins His parables and increasingly withdraws from public ministry.

As chapter 16 opens, those Christ-rejecting Israeli religious leaders approach Him. After disregarding His other miraculous deeds, and still wallowing in their unbelief, they feign themselves as genuine truth-seekers in verse 1: “The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven.” They are not interested in being converted to faith in Him; they are “tempting” or challenging Him, seeing if He will pacify them. “[2] He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. [3] And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?”

They prided themselves in studying nature to predict the weather, but how pathetically ignorant they were of more critical (eternally important!!!) matters. Discounting the earlier miracles, they had not recognized that Messiah (He Himself!) had arrived and they were outright rejecting their only chance at forgiveness of sins and eternal life! He chided them further: “[4] A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.” There are more hypocrites to come, and the Lord Jesus will soon address them with His most unpleasant words yet.

Most of the Bible’s acridest comments about hypocrites are found in Jesus’ final Temple sermon. Matthew chapter 22, verse 15: “Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk.” They send allies in verses 16 and 17, “Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?” Verse 18, “But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?” While playing like they were law-abiding citizens, they (like all Jews) had no interest in funding an oppressive Gentile government. Their only goal was to get Jesus in trouble with the Roman authorities.

Chapter 23 of Matthew is Christ’s censure of the pervasive corruption within this the ranks of Israel’s religious leadership. His words, while sharp, are necessary to expose Satan’s strongholds within the nation. The pretenders in Israel will now be uncovered for all in the Temple complex to see.

Verse 13, for example: “But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.” Despite their pious appearance, they discouraged and intimidated any and all from participating in God’s will! Verse 14: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.” In the name of religion, they stole large sums of money to “pray” for the dead!

Now, verse 15: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.” They diligently sought converts to Judaism—not to teach them God’s Word and lead them to salvation—but simply to get new church members. Indeed, the hypocrites have infiltrated Israel. They have permeated the professing church today as well.

The Lord Jesus thundered in Matthew 23:23: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.” They seemed to honor and follow the Mosaic Law, although they limited themselves. Consumed by tithing the smallest spices to obey Moses, they ignored God’s major commandments—judgment (justice), mercy, and faith.

Now, verse 25: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.” This is formalism—emphasis on outward appearance—yet again. They painstakingly wiped (and wiped!!!) cups and platters (dishes) used in religious services. How attractive were those washed vessels! When God looked into the souls of those cleaning, He saw filth and ugliness. Their motives were greed and incontinency: they could not help themselves but take, take, take from the common Jewish worshippers to support that extravagant religion!

And, verse 27: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.” Jesus employs a simile. These religious leaders are painted, decorated tombs… yet, innumerable corpses and utter impurity are hidden inside! Spiritual death personified!

Finally, verses 29-32: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.” They supposedly “lamented” their fathers killing God’s prophets of old. Nevertheless, ultimately, they will soon demand Jesus Christ’s crucifixion.

Our Lord Jesus Christ issued the grave admonition in Luke 12:1: “In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” As “a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump” (1 Corinthians 5:6; Galatians 5:9), Pharisaical hypocrisy throughly subverted Israel! (Its absurdity is described in Luke 13:11-17.)

Israel’s hypocrisy culminated at Christ’s barbaric crucifixion. Indeed, Calvary’s cross will forever be an emblem of God’s grace in spite of man’s sin. Yet, it will also always be a reminder of how opposed organized religion is to God’s grace. It was not thieves, drug abusers, drunkards, gangbangers, pimps, prostitutes, and atheistic evolutionary college professors who demanded God’s only begotten Son be crucified! No, it was the most “pious” people who ever lived! Religion was everything to them, and Heaven’s Best meant absolutely nothing to them! Mere hours after shedding His innocent blood, they, without one scintilla of remorse, held a religious feast—Passover!

James spoke of divine wisdom as being “without hypocrisy” (3:17). There is no deceitfulness with God; thus, the same should be true of His children. “Provide things honest in the sight of all men” (Romans 12:17). If we have believed on the Lord Jesus Christ who is anything but a hypocrite, we should therefore behave like the people we are (Christians) and not the people we are not (unsaved)!

By the way, what became of organized religion? First Timothy 4:2 says, “Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;….” Its proponents still masquerade as “truth-tellers.” They are non-dispensational—ignoring Pauline revelation (grace) and exalting everything else as “Christian” thought and behavior (see verses 1-16). Beware, dear friends, that ye be not hypocrites! Cast off the masks, makeup, and costumes! “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof” (Romans 13:14)!

Also see:
» Why did Jesus curse the “poor” fig tree?
» “Thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?”
» Why do some Christians persistently behave like lost people?

DISPENSATIONAL BIBLE STUDY, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, Should the lack of worldwide revival in our dispensation discourage us from witnessing?

Should the lack of worldwide revival in our dispensation discourage us from witnessing?

SHOULD THE LACK OF WORLDWIDE REVIVAL IN OUR DISPENSATION DISCOURAGE US FROM WITNESSING?

by Shawn Brasseaux

One theologian asserted that we will discourage ourselves and other Christians from witnessing if we go around saying there will be no worldwide revival until the Lord Jesus Christ returns. Is that true?

Personally, this author has no problem with witnessing even in the absence of a global revival. He has a biblical, healthy, reality-based perspective. He is not endeavoring to evangelize every last person on the planet, to reform and purge corrupt governments, to expose and correct every single false teaching, and so on. He does not have unreasonable expectations. This outlook saves him from disappointment whenever the masses refuse to hear him share God’s Word. Yet, there will come a day when nations will be converted. When Jesus Christ returns, all false religion will be put down, all governments will be purified, and all nations will come to know the one true God. Until then, this author reaches whomever he can, “holding forth the word of life” (Philippians 2:16).

The Apostle Paul did not endeavor to save “all;” he purposed to save “some” of his lost Jewish brethren. Romans 11:13-14: “For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.” Did this discourage him from evangelizing as many Jews as he could during the Acts period? Absolutely not! As the passage implies, it was with that knowledge of saving “some” (not “all”) that he was conducting his Acts ministry! He confessed a similar sentiment in 1 Corinthians 9:22, “To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” Paul was not looking for every last Jew to come to Christ—he was preaching to save the remnant that did want to believe!

First Timothy chapter 4 speaks of increasing apostasy within the Church the Body of Christ: “[1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; [2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; [3] Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. [4] For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: [5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. [6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.”

A few years later, the “some shall depart from the faith” (verse 1) became the sad reality in 2 Timothy 1:15: “This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.” Now, that did not mean every last Christian had departed from sound Bible doctrine. It meant the majority (as Timothy himself was an exception)—and that was during Paul’s final days alive! That did not prevent either man from preaching even in his last days alive. In light of that, Paul encouraged Timothy to keep preaching sound Bible doctrine anyway!

Second Timothy chapter 4: “[1] I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; [2] Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. [3] For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; [4] And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. [5] But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.”

If realizing the lack of worldwide revival was detrimental to the ministry, why did the Holy Spirit Himself pen this advice in 1 and 2 Timothy? Evidently, it is vital information that we must always bear in mind. We are not here to see every last person saved. They all will not trust Christ anyway. Yet, we are to tell as many people as we can, we share the Gospel (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) as often as we can, and we let God the Holy Spirit take care of the rest. Upon first glance, it seems hopeless that most people do not listen to us; nevertheless, the Bible already prepared us to anticipate and handle such a response. We will find most people are unsaved. They are not Christians, genuine members of the Body of Christ. They may be pious church members and Bible readers, but they are not God’s children. Most of them will want to stay lost too. They will not want to hear the Gospel of Grace. They will prefer the Law system—works-religion. Many of them will actually go to Hell anyway (Matthew 7:13-14).

We will find most Christians are confused. Most of them will want to stay confused too. They will not care to hear about grace living, as they will prefer the Law as well. They will refuse to hear Pauline doctrine. That does not mean that no one will want to listen. There are believers in Christ in every nation. It means there is no conversion of any national entity. Worldwide revival will come, just not today. In the Millennial Reign of Christ, after our Dispensation of Grace and the Second Coming, nations will be saved and the evil world system (corrupt governments and false religions) will be abolished forever!

Isaiah 60:1-3: “[1] Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. [2] For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. [3] And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.”

Zechariah 8:20-23: “[20] Thus saith the LORD of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities: [21] And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also. [22] Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD. [23] Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.”

Isaiah 11:9: “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.” Habakkuk 2:14: “For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.”

Saints, please remember us in your monthly giving—these websites do cost money to run! 🙂 You can donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux, or email me at arcministries@gmail.com. Do not forget about Bible Q&A booklets for sale at https://arcgraceministries.org/in-print/booklets-bible-q-a/. Thanks to all who give to and pray for us! By the way, ministry emails have really been backed up this year. I am handling them as much as humanly possible. Thanks for your patience. 🙂

Also see:
» Has God’s Word failed?
» Can we witness “too much” to family members?
» What about those who have not heard?

As Christians should we hate our parents?, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING

As Christians, should we hate our parents?

AS CHRISTIANS, SHOULD WE HATE OUR PARENTS? DID THE LORD ADVOCATE PHYSICAL VIOLENCE?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Matthew 10:34-39 can be (and has been) greatly misconstrued. It therefore behooves us to reserve a study to make it as plain as possible.

To begin, we should point out that it is seldom realized that Matthew chapter 10 is the first installment of the Great Commission. The Lord Jesus Christ is issuing instructions to His 12 Apostles, as well as to all the Little Flock (instructions to bring them all the way to His Second Coming—see verse 23).

Here are some of Christ’s concluding remarks in Matthew chapter 10: “[34] Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. [35] For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. [36] And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. [37] He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. [38] And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. [39] He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.”

Jesus Christ is surely not advocating physical violence when He says, “I am not come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Read the text above once more. There is an invisible, spiritual battle manifesting itself in an outward form. It is not believers in Christ waging war on unbelievers; it is unbelievers attacking believers in Christ. The man who trusts Christ as Saviour has automatically sided against Satan, thus causing a rift between the man and his family. When you look at the Bible record, it is not believers in Christ targeting unsaved people with violence. It is lost people slandering, beating, imprisoning, and executing Christ’s followers. (Be quite careful to note Matthew 5:38-48 and Romans 12:17-21!)(And, perhaps, read Genesis chapter 4 to see who killed whom!)

Matthew 10:37 again: “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” The issue here is priorities. If we have to choose between pleasing people and following the God of the Bible, we should be willing to “obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). We do not hate our parents or our children when we come to faith in Christ. Rather, we prefer to obey the God of creation than fear the possible hostile reaction of loved ones who are not Christians. We should be honored to partake in Christ’s rejection. (See 1 John 3:11-13, John 15:18-25, and John 16:1-3.)

Dear friends, whose do we seek—God’s praise, or man’s praise? “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). We should endeavor to please God, not men. Yet, since it is a tough predicament, most people wind up compromising to some degree. Some Christians are willing to give up sound Bible doctrine so as to “keep peace in the family.” They do not want to offend friends with the Scriptures. They stay quiet about the Bible. They refuse to witness to anyone. They prefer not to get involved with Bible distribution, Gospel preaching, and so on.

Turn to John chapter 12: “[42] Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: [43] For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” Flip over to chapter 9: “[21] But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself. [22] These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.”

Whom do we serve—God or men? Galatians 1:10 says, “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” The Apostle Paul had already determined that he had served man long enough in Judaism. Now, a saved individual, he would not waste any more time with man-pleasing. He had become a servant of Christ Jesus!

If our parents (or any other relatives, or any friends) forbid us from trusting Christ, praying, going to church, reading the Bible, sharing the Gospel, and so on, then the choice is clear to “obey God rather than men.” There are those who say that they would rather die with their parents’ or grandparents’ religion, than believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved from sins and denominational error. If that is what they want to do, they may have at it. We will not discourage them from walking down the path they have decided. The time to convince them has come and gone. God values free will, and we will not deny them their right.

We should never make decisions simply to “stick out” or “be different.” We are not trying to draw attention to ourselves. We simply believe and obey God’s Word, and let it offend whomever it offends. Nevertheless, we should not be obnoxious, contentious, or haughty about it. We should be meek and gentle, but resolute in holding to the truth (2 Timothy 2:24-26).

One more verse. Turn to Luke 16:15: “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” One reason why people do not want to trust Christ as their personal Saviour is because they fear offending or “disrespecting” family members. Abandoning their relatives’ religion is unthinkable, far too costly. If they do manage to break away and become a member of the Body of Christ, they run the risk of being disowned, shunned, and considered a traitor. We are willing to have our parents (or children, or other loved ones) hate us for trusting Jesus Christ and following Him. In God’s eyes, we thus love Him more than we love them. We show that our loyalty is to Him, and not to them or any fallible creature.

Also see:
» Should we hate the denominational people who misled us?
» What does it mean to “Take up your cross?”
» Should Christians support wars or should they be pacifists?

Can you explain Philippians 3:14?, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING

Can you explain Philippians 3:14?

CAN YOU EXPLAIN PHILIPPIANS 3:14?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Philippians 3:14: “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” What is the “mark?” The “prize?” The “high calling?”

Let us start at verse 1 and go through the entire chapter to get the context: “[1] Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [2] Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [3] For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [4] Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [5] Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; [6] Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. [7] But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.”

Verses 1-6 are the Apostle Paul’s background as Saul of Tarsus, when he was a Pharisee in the Jews’ religion. Verse 7 is his conversion in Acts chapter 9. He came to realize all his “good works” were nothing but “dung!” His impressive accomplishments in religion could not save his soul from Hell! Just as they cannot deliver us from Hell and make us Christians, religious works cannot help us overcome sin and keep us Christians either!! It is all about Jesus Christ and what He did at Calvary! Herein—and herein alone—lies the victory!!

Keep reading in Philippians chapter 3: “[8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, [9] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: [10] That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; [11] If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.”

From verse 8 onward, Paul reflects on his Christian life. He aims to “win Christ” (verse 8). The verse itself qualifies this as, “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.” This is not a lost person getting saved, but rather a saved person maturing in God’s knowledge. Go on to verse 12: “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” In other words, the Christian asks, “Why did God save me? I want to capture that answer just like Jesus Christ seized me from Satan’s clutches!”

Even after 30 years of being a Christian, Paul himself had incomplete knowledge of grace living. Yes, he had greatly matured, but there was more growth to experience in his own Christian life. Even though he was an apostle, he was not sinless. He never erred in doctrine while functioning as an apostle—the Holy Spirit never let him make mistakes while writing Scripture or speaking God’s Word—but Paul certainly did not apply grace teaching to his own life 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Go look at his struggles with the Law in Romans chapter 7. He had forgotten the grace truths of chapter 6 and finally realized them again in chapter 8. Until the day he physically died and was taken up into Heaven, Paul battled with the flesh like the rest of us. Yet, he would not be discouraged or give up!

The Christian maturing in grace teaching will not return to the old mindset and lifestyle (works-religion). Even after three decades of being a Christian, Paul recognized his incomplete knowledge of grace living. Nevertheless, he was determined to move ahead in this thinking (progress) rather than return to the former mindset (regress).

Keep reading in Philippians chapter 3: “[12] Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. [13] 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, [14] I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. [15] Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. [16] Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.”

Verses 15 and 16—as well as verse 17 (which we have not yet read)—are Paul urging the Philippians (and us) to follow his pattern of moving forward in spiritual growth. Whatever aspects of Christian living we do not understand, we need to advance instead of go backward. We should walk in the spiritual light we have. God the Holy Spirit will use the Bible rightly divided to provide us with whatever light we lack. Using what we have discussed, we can now identify the goal, the prize, and the high calling.

Reread Philippians chapter 3: “[13] 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, [14] I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” The “mark” is his goal, aim, ambition, or desire, as seen in verse 12: “…but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” Paul wants to grow in God’s knowledge, that he may better understand why God saved him unto eternal life. He knows much grace doctrine, but in light of the totality, his spiritual eyesight is limited. His Christian life is not 100 percent grace-oriented because his flesh and the Law always pop up at some point (and that is true even of us).

The “winning Christ” (verse 8) is evidently “the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” of verse 14. Again, this is not being saved unto eternal life (justification). This is sanctification. We do not “win” Christ as unsaved people; we “win” Him after we become Christians (after believing the Gospel of Grace—1 Corinthians 15:3-4). “Winning Christ” here is Christian living, not salvation of sins. This is the maturation process of a member of the Church the Body of Christ living in the Dispensation of Grace. We possess Christ when we trust Him as our personal Saviour, but grace living is applying that identity every day. As with justification, sanctification is entirely about Christ’s righteousness—not ours. It is not religion but grace! It is our identity in Christ, not our identity in Adam! It is Christ thinking and living in and through us! This is the “Christ” to be won!

Moreover, the “high calling of God in Christ Jesus” is the heavenly vocation or job we have been given with the heavenly places in view. Father God has invited us members of the Body of Christ to walk a certain way—here is Christian or grace living. This can only happen in Christ. Our “in Christ” position (2 Corinthians 5:17) can become our “in Christ” practice. It is the prayerful application of grace teaching to daily life. It is the knowledge of Jesus Christ concerning the Dispensation of the Grace of God. That knowledge is all of Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon. The more basic information is found in Romans through Galatians; the advanced teachings are Ephesians through 2 Thessalonians. Timothy, Titus, and Philemon are grace living with respect to local church ministry. Philippians is part of the advanced doctrine, encouragement to move away from the fundamentals and get into the deeper things.

By the way, pay attention to how Philippians chapter 3 ends. You can see the progression of some saints and the regression of others. Some Christians here have gone back to the Law system, self-living, ignoring grace: they mind earthly things in that they are carnal, fleshly, habitually dominated by sin (Romans chapter 7). The grace life that God Himself wants to live in and through us believers now, it anticipates the day when we (in glorified bodies) will be the expression of that life in the heavenly places throughout the endless ages to come.

“[17] Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. [18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: [19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) [20] For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [21] Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”

Also see:
» What does it mean to “mind earthly things?”
» How do we not live after the flesh if we live in bodies of flesh?
» How did the Law kill Paul?

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What does the Bible say about fatherhood?

What does the Bible say about fatherhood?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT FATHERHOOD?

by Shawn Brasseaux

God’s Word says plenty about fatherhood. (Do we care to listen?)

AN UNCONCERNED FATHER. King David, a saint of the Most High God, was nevertheless a mostly terrible father. Amnon, his firstborn son, raped his sister Tamar (David’s daughter), but David neither consoled Tamar nor punished Amnon (2 Samuel 13:1-21). When David’s younger son Absalom murdered his brother for assaulting his sister, Absalom fled to a foreign land for three years (verses 23-39). Only after being pressurized did David finally send for Absalom from exile (2 Samuel 14:1-24). Nevertheless, when Absalom returned to Jerusalem, David did not see him in-person for two years (2 Samuel 14:28). After meeting his father, Absalom eventually incited a coup and David had to flee his throne (2 Samuel chapters 15–17).

In 2 Samuel chapter 18, David commanded his servants to bring Absalom alive (verses 5,12). Instead, they killed the young man! It was such a terrible, heart-wrenching life that David could have caused his son to avoid. Absalom’s many transgressions could have been minimized had his father taken the opportunity to follow Deuteronomy 6:7 and Deuteronomy 11:19. We find similar wording in Ephesians 6:4: “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture [care] and admonition [instruction] of the Lord.” (Colossians 3:21: “Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.”) Upon hearing of Absalom’s slaying, David probably reflected on his parental shortcomings that had led up to this most disastrous outcome. Indeed, he had not been a decent father to any of his children here. It is no different today when men let anything and everything evil go on in their household, unable or unwilling to do anything about it. Their legacy depends on much time they had for their children when it counted the most!

A CONCERNED FATHER (BUT STILL ANOTHER COMPROMISER). Let us read 1 Samuel chapter 2: “[12] Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD…. [22] Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. [23] And he said unto them, Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people. [24] Nay, my sons; for it is no good report that I hear: ye make the LORD’S people to transgress. [25] If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.”

The Priest-Judge Eli discouraged his priestly sons from following Satan (Baal worship), but they disregarded his words. Yet, God censures Eli for not doing more, accusing Eli of thus: “[thou] honourest thy sons above me” (verse 29). Perhaps Eli was late in his rebukes of their waywardness. He obviously should have barred them from the priesthood, and based on Deuteronomy 13:6-18, they really should have been executed for their idolatry! Yet, he let them continue to live and serve as priests. Hence, God killed those two sons in battle, and promised to remove Eli’s other descendants from the priestly line. Samuel and his sons would form a new line of priests (see verses 27-36; cf. 1 Samuel 4:1-22).

A NURTURING STEPFATHER. Joseph, the husband of Jesus’ mother Mary, was a great stepfather, as Matthew chapter 1 shows: “[18] Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. [19] Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. [20] But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. [21] And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. [22] Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, [23] Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. [24] Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: [25] And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.”

Joseph took care of His wife and her Boy the Christ Child. He followed the Lord’s instructions and did not abandon them. In fact, Joseph made sure they safely escaped into Egypt when King Herod began slaughtering the Jewish children (Matthew 2:13-23). We are not entirely sure what happened to Joseph after this, for Scripture never again mentions him directly. He was definitely a good financial provider for his family. A carpenter by profession, Joseph taught young Jesus that same trade (Matthew 13:55; cf. Mark 6:3).

A FALSE-RELIGION FATHER. Unbelieving Cain is distinguished for slaying his righteous brother Abel (the very first murder!). Most do not realize that Cain was a wicked father as well. As punishment for killing Abel, the LORD God commanded Cain to be a wanderer, a vagabond in the earth (Genesis 4:14). Cain, a farmer, was not to settle in one particular area: he was to be a nomad, moving constantly. Yet, he rebelled: “[16] And Cain went out from the presence of the LORD, and dwelt in the land of Nod, on the east of Eden. [17] And Cain knew his wife; and she conceived, and bare Enoch: and he builded a city, and called the name of the city, after the name of his son, Enoch.” Interestingly, Cain, with his false works-religious system (see verses 1-13), founded a city. He did the exact opposite of what the LORD told him! Instead of drifting, he permanently settled in a specific geographic region. Moreover, he began a culture—a religious (!) culture—that opposed the one true God. It continues even today, for its members persecute and kill Christians (see 1 John 3:11-13; cf. Luke 11:47-51). They were the religious leaders of Israel who crucified Jesus, and will be followers of the Antichrist beyond our day. As we saw from Genesis, Cain named the city after his son Enoch. Cain was not a good father. He polluted his family with false religion, and the whole world since.

A WISE FATHER. Dying David counsels young King Solomon, somewhat redeeming himself from his previous parental failures: “[1] Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, [2] I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man; [3] And keep the charge of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself: [4] That the LORD may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel” (1 Kings chapter 2).

Around this time, David also advised Solomon: “[20] And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD. [21] And, behold, the courses of the priests and the Levites, even they shall be with thee for all the service of the house of God: and there shall be with thee for all manner of workmanship every willing skilful man, for any manner of service: also the princes and all the people will be wholly at thy commandment” (1 Chronicles 28:20-21).

ANOTHER WISE FATHER. The Holy Spirit used King Solomon to write most of the Book of Proverbs. Here is how the first chapter opens: “[1] The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; [2] To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; [3] To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; [4] To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. [5] A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: [6] To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. [7] The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. [8] My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother: [9] For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck. [10] My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not….” The wise father—in this case, Solomon (writing to Rehoboam; 1 Kings 11:43)—cautions his son to walk in true wisdom. Fearing the God of the Bible, revering Him and believing His Word, is key to avoiding sinful thoughts and deeds.

EVIL, UNGODLY FATHERS. Ahaz, King of Judah and father of Hezekiah, was certainly not a virtuous parent. No different from the pro-abortion fathers of today, he actually offered at least one of his sons in a human sacrifice to pagan idols. “But he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, yea, and made his son to pass through the fire, according to the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel” (2 Kings 16:3). Manasseh, Hezekiah’s son, continued his grandfather Ahaz’s idolatry: “And he made his son pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger” (21:6). Second Chronicles 33:6 says of Manasseh: “And he caused his children to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom: also he observed times, and used enchantments, and used witchcraft, and dealt with a familiar spirit, and with wizards: he wrought much evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger.” Ahaz and Manasseh polluted their families and nations with pagan idolatry. There was no Bible doctrine in either man’s life, and many suffered because of it. Manasseh was one of the primary reasons why God used Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar to destroy Jerusalem (read 2 Kings chapter 21)!

GODLY FATHERS. Titus chapter 2: “[1] But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: [2] That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience…. [6] Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. [7] In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, [8] Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” These traits are for Christian men in general, but they should especially be true of husbands and fathers. They are to be examples to women and children!!

MORE GODLY FATHERS. One of the most central passages about fatherhood is actually found among the qualifications for bishops and deacons. Titus chapter 1: “[6] If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. [7] For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; [8] But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; [9] Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”

First Timothy chapter 3: “[2] A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; [3] Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; [4] One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; [5] (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) [6] Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. [12] Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.”

Bishops and deacons should be the spiritual leaders in their home: the husband-father is head of the wife as Christ is Head of the Body (Ephesians 5:23-24). This is how all Christian men should function, bishops or not, deacons or not. According to God’s Word, if these men cannot lead their own family—especially their children—into spiritual maturity, they have proven themselves not to be capable of bringing a whole congregation to appropriate Christian thought and behavior! They should therefore not be appointed bishops or deacons (1 Timothy 3:4-5,12)! Let this author say something personal and frank. It is graphic but it must (!!!) be stated. If the Christian man is unwilling to bring his wife and children to spiritual maturity, sound grace teaching (Pauline theology, Romans through Philemon), he should not (!!!) marry any woman or father any children with her or anyone else! More societal and spiritual damage will result than good if the Christian man desires to function as nothing but a “legal partner” and a “sperm donor.” Think on that long and hard, my friends, think on it long and hard!!! (Women need to be quite careful about with whom they get involved romantically. Beware, beware, beware!!)

CONCLUSION

My dear brothers in Christ, if you endeavor to be fathers in and through whom the Holy Spirit will work mightily, you must give heed to and believe these verses. As we saw, the Bible features respectable fathers and depraved fathers. Some were flagrant idolaters; others trusted and loved the God of creation. Some were caring whereas others were dreadfully inhumane. Some taught their children God’s Word; others led their progeny to worship Satan. Some fathers were hardworking, and the rest were slothful.

Having read these passages of Scripture, you know exactly what mistakes not to repeat. You saw precisely what temptations our male ancestors faced long ago. You have already been given counsel in the Holy Bible as to how you are to think and conduct yourselves if the Lord Jesus Christ is to be glorified. It is up to you now to make the choice. You can either take your stand by faith in these verses, or you can just continue “doing your own thing.” Just remember the disasters that resulted when fathers failed to believe God’s Word. Just remember the benefits that came when fathers trusted God’s Word. Choose life… choose the grace life! 🙂

“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee” (Exodus 20:12).

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth” (Ephesians 6:1-3).

“By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother’s bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee” (Psalm 71:6).

Also see:
» What does the Bible say about motherhood?
» Can you explain the “Corban” tradition?
» Is it normal for me to be too busy for daily Bible reading?

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What is “purloining?”

What is “purloining?”

WHAT IS “PURLOINING?”

by Shawn Brasseaux

“Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things” (Titus 2:9-10). What exactly is “purloining?”

According to The Oxford English Dictionary, “purloin” is the formal term for “to steal.” Another English dictionary says, “to appropriate wrongfully and often by a breach of trust.” When used in the context of “servants” and “masters” (as in Titus), it acquires the sense of stealing from one’s employer or boss. The legal term is “embezzlement” (misuse of entrusted money or property). (The English word is from the French purloigner “put away,” from pur- “forth” + loign “far.”) What is most painful is the identity of the purloiner—usually it is the most trusted member of the team!

Experts tell us that theft in the workplace causes American businesses to lose an estimated $50 billion annually! Whether stealing parts from inventory, taking money from cash registers, using company equipment and accounts for personal gain, check fraud, swiping so much as ink pens and pencils, it costs the company. Over many years, a worker can siphon and remove the merchandise or funds little by little. It is difficult to notice. The median age for purloiners at the workplace is the late 40s (both men and women). Women are more often guilty of it.

Rather than stealing from the company, the Christian worker is to “shew all good fidelity.” Faithfulness or trustworthiness should be demonstrated, “that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.” The purpose of a Christian’s on-the-job honesty is to make God’s doctrine attractive. If the Christian employee talks about how Satan lies and Jesus Christ is “the Truth,” but then steals from his company, he will lose both his job and his testimony! Rather than being attractive, the Bible will be hideous before the eyes of lost men. They will not care to hear from hypocrites who say one thing and do something else. Let us always bear this in mind when on the job!

Also see:
» What is “shamefacedness?”
» What is “chambering?”
» What does “concupiscence” mean?