Be Reconciled - Genesis 50:15-21; Matthew 5:21-26; Colossians 3:1-17

Sunday School Lesson – Be Reconciled – May 27, 2007

Our scripture is Genesis 50:15-21; Matthew 5:21-26; Colossians 3: 1-10; 12-17.

This is our final lesson in our series “Being a Peacemaker.” To be a peacemaker, peace has to be broken. When peace is broken there needs to be reconciliation.

As a human the first peace we must make is with GOD through CHRIST. As GOD reveals areas in our lives that need to come under HIS authority and rule, we as Christians, need to make peace with ourselves. This also includes any broken relationships that need to be reconciled. GOD wants us to have right relationships with others, so we can have a right relationship with HIM. We may have to deal with issues we have or have had with GOD or with others.

I have had to confess issues I have had with HIM and ask HIM to forgive me. Several of my issues came from false notions and assumptions I had made about GOD. I had to grow and mature enough to understand that I tried to make GOD in my image.

Suppose we need to settle an issue with a person. First we need to assess ourselves and to determine our role, if any, in the issue. We need to pray and ask GOD to prepare our heart and the heart of the person with whom we have to discuss the issue. We can ask others to join us in prayer for the situation as we contact the person to resolve the issue. We should pray for guidance regarding how to approach the person e.g. personal visit, telephone, letter, or invitation for coffee, etc. to break the ice.

Often the LORD has prepared the way, the heart and the attitude of the person before you approach him or her. Often the person you are approaching wanted to resolve the issue as well and the issue is settled and relationships are restored.

But there are times things do not go well and the issue is not settled or the person will not meet or discuss the issue with you. If you meet with the person and the situation turns adversarial then leave. Try to let the person know that you hope to reconcile the issue in a spirit of love and forgiveness. Continue to pray for an opportunity to resolve the issue. Once you have reached out, you can know that you have done your part in trying to resolve the issue. You may need to let time go by and try again.

What if the issue is between you and a person who has died or the person will not communicate with you? You can write them a letter or a note confessing your part, if any, regarding the issue. Say in the letter what you would say to the person as if they were present. Or pull up an empty chair and ask the deceased person or the person who refuses to communicate with you to sit in the empty chair. Again you can either speak to the person in the empty chair or you can read the letter. I suggest writing or recording your message.

If you have written a letter or note or recorded the message, when you have finished the monologue write “done or resolved or finished” across the letter or note. You can throw the written material in the trash or burn it. Consider the issue(s) resolved and that you have been reconciled with that person or persons. If you are the type that needs a reminder, then just put the written or recorded material in a safe place and refer to it when the issue crosses your mind. You may need the assurance that you have resolved the issue so you can stop thinking about it.

It is vital that we know ourselves and deal with our issues before we can resolve issues with others and for us to be peacemakers. You may recall Galatians 6:1 in last week’s lesson:

Galatians 6:1:
- 1 Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you won’t be tempted also.
Galatians 6:1 deals with an issue of sin. In our day it could be adultery, pornography, addictions e.g. drugs, gambling, lying, cheating, stealing, alcohol, abuse, sex to name a few.

When a Christian grows and matures in CHRIST, we realize how far short we fall when we compare ourselves to CHRIST. It is very dangerous when we as Christians think we will not be lured into sin. We must realize we can also fall into the same or similar trap as the person we are trying to restore.

Recognizing our vulnerability results in a less condemning nature while we focus on the restoration. We must not enable the person we are trying to help. Remaining firm with compassion and love with an understanding heart is important when restoring a person from wrongdoing. Our focus needs to be on resolving and restoring and not condemnation. The wrongdoing is Satan’s attempt to enslave the person and prevent them from the power, joy and fellowship with CHRIST. Restoration includes restoration with CHRIST as well as others.

Not all efforts will end in restoration but many will. Only GOD knows the results of any effort. GOD never takes away our right to choose. Life is about making right choices. Every Christian must maintain a right relationship with GOD through CHRIST because GOD provides the power for us to overcome the world and the flesh.

Be Ready to Restore:
Our first scripture deals with an issue where a wrong was done to a brother. It teaches us as Christians to be prepared to mend broken relationships.

Let’s read Genesis 50:15-21:

15 When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said to one another, “If Joseph is holding a grudge against us, he will certainly repay us for all the wrong we caused him.” 16 So they sent this message to Joseph, “Before he died your father gave a command: 17 ‘Say this to Joseph: Please forgive your brothers’ transgression and their sin—the wrong they caused you.’ Therefore, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” Joseph wept when their message came to him. 18 Then his brothers also came to him, bowed down before him, and said, “We are your slaves!” 19 But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result—the survival of many people.[4] Gn 45:7; Rm 8:28 21 Therefore don’t be afraid. I will take care of you and your little ones.” And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.[5] Lit spoke to their hearts

Most of us know the story of Joseph as recorded in the Old Testament. Joseph’s brothers were very jealous of him. His Dad, Jacob, had given him a coat of many colors and Joseph had told his brothers about a dream he had. In the dream his brothers bowed down to worship him. This did not endear him to his brothers and they planned to kill him. But Reuben talked his brothers into selling Joseph into slavery rather than killing him.

They killed an animal and put the blood on Joseph’s coat and told their father, Jacob, that a wild animal had killed him. Joseph ended up in Egypt and through the hand of GOD he was eventually elevated to be second in charge in Egypt. A famine came into the area that impacted Jacob’s family and forced them to go to Egypt for food. Joseph recognized his brothers and forgave them. Jacob came to Egypt and died there. When Jacob died, Joseph’s brothers were concerned that Joseph may seek revenge.

It is not clear that Joseph’s father really said what the brothers said he said on his death bed. But that was not an issue with Joseph because he had forgiven his brothers completely. But notice in verse 16, Joseph’s brother said when your father died. They did not say when our father died.

It seems as if the brothers were prepared to hear Joseph say, “You are not my brothers!” But when they told Joseph what his father asked them to do, the words of the father restored them as brothers. Clearly they sought reconciliation with their brother.

Joseph is an example of spiritual maturity. Joseph’s weeping shows that he had forgiven them. I think it also touched his heart that what they had done was recognized and acknowledged as wrong and resulted in them reaffirming their faith in GOD. His brothers had made peace with GOD and now they were reconfirming their desire to be reconciled with Joseph.

Joseph saw that all things work together for good when your desire is to follow GOD in all areas of your lives. The wonderful words flowed from the lips of Joseph in verse 20 - 20 You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result—the survival of many people.[4] Gn 45:7; Rm 8:28

Joseph’s words are a testimony to his brothers. GOD is in all things working for good. Romans 8:28: 28 We know that all things work together[16] Other mss read that God works together in all things for the good[17] The ultimate good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.

This story teaches us that we need to restore broken relationships, seek opportunities to reconcile with those with whom relationships have been broken and reach out in kindness when the relationships have been reconciled.

Make Reconciliation a Priority:

JESUS tells us in this scripture that reconciliation with fellow humans is vital before we can worship GOD in spirit and truth.

Let’s read Matthew 5:23-24:

23 So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

JESUS is speaking. HE is giving us a vital lesson in the true worship of GOD. HE is saying it is more important to mend broken relationships before worshiping GOD. This is a situation when a Christian remembers that a fellow Christian has a problem with him or her. We are to go immediately to settle the matter. Or at least do our part in trying to resolve the matter.

When we have a problem with our fellow Christian whom we have seen, how can we worship GOD in spirit and truth whom we not seen? JESUS tells us to clear the air and resolve the matter. Then we can worship the FATHER in spirit and truth.

1 John 4:20-21:
20 If anyone says, “I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For the person who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.[11] Other mss read seen, how is he able to love . . . seen? (as a question) 21 And we have this command from Him: the one who loves God must also love his brother.

Forgive Completely:

Paul tells that just as GOD forgives us completely, we need to forgive completely. Forgiveness is an act of the will and is our opportunity to show grace to others just as GOD had shown grace to us.

Colossians 3:1-10:

1 So if you have been raised with the • Messiah, seek what is above, where the Messiah is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on what is above, not on what is on the earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with the Messiah in God. 4 When the Messiah, who is your[1] Other mss read our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory. 5 Therefore, put to death whatever in you is worldly:[2] Lit death, the members on the earth sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desire, and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, God’s wrath comes on the disobedient,[3] Other mss omit on the disobedient 7 and you once • walked in these things when you were living in them. 8 But now you must also put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his practices 10 and have put on the new man, who is being renewed in knowledge according to the image of his Creator.

The Apostle Paul is writing to the Christians at Colossi and to us as well. When we consider that we have been born-again and belong to GOD, we in essence were raised from the dead with CHRIST at HIS resurrection. Our citizenship is no longer earth but heaven. We need to set our minds on heavenly things. CHRIST in us is being revealed to those on earth as we become more like HIM.

For us to become more like HIM we are constantly putting to death our flesh as Paul reveals in verse 5. We were all once flesh and we know what it is like to allow the flesh to rule.

Notice in verse 8 Paul tells us to “put away” and in verse 9 “put off” the old person or the flesh. In verse 10 he says to “put on” the new or born-again person that is in us.

Paul is comparing our old life in the flesh to our clothes. Paul tells us to take off our old self like we would our old clothes and to put on our new freshly cleaned clothes that only GOD can provide. Our new clothes have been washed in the blood of the LAMB. SO take off our old selves and put on our new selves, which is the image of JESUS. Let others see JESUS in us.

All who have asked CHRIST to forgive them of their sins and for HIM to come into their lives are going through the process of being made into the image of CHRIST.


Let’s read Colossians 3:12-15:

12 Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13 accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so also you must [forgive]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . 14 Above all, [put on]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. love—the perfect bond of unity. 15 And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Be thankful.

The Apostle Paul gives us rules for Holy living. Therefore Christians you know you are GOD’S chosen ones. You know GOD has made you Holy through CHRIST and HE loves you so much that HE sent HIS ONLY SON to die for you. GOD loves every Christian and set them aside to be a special vessel to be used by HIM for HIS purposes. This is the process of sanctification.

Since GOD loves you with your imperfections, you need to consider this when you encounter Christian brothers or sisters who are also imperfect. So have the mind of CHRIST in you by “putting on” the virtues that the HOLY SPIRIT can manifest through you. Have the same attitude toward your fellow brother or sister in CHRIST as CHRIST has toward you. The attributes or characteristics that Paul lists are fruit produced by the HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives in us and WHO controls our lives.

CHRIST hanging on the cross uttered these words in Luke 23:34a, “FATHER, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” CHRIST loved the world even unto death. Paul reminds each Christian to “put on” love which will produce and maintain unity among the living body of CHRIST, the church. Love coupled with the characteristics of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience will produce a very strong unity.

The root word used in the original text for forgiveness comes from the word used for “Grace” or “unmerited favor.” Grace is something a person cannot earn or even deserves but is freely given by GOD to each of HIS children.

Then a Christian is to allow the peace that only GOD can give, to fill your heart with thanksgiving. Peace is the knowledge of well-being and wholeness under GOD’S rule. This is what is meant when our Jewish friends greet each other with “Shalom.” It is the joy and security of knowing you are GOD’S child. This “knowing” is confirmed at the very core of your being, your heart. Armed with this knowledge our attitude is to be one of thanksgiving. The root word for thankful is also the root word for “Grace.” Notice that the scripture says, “Be thankful.” This is not a choice but a command which in essence is telling us to be thankful always and make thanksgiving a habit.

Our focus must be upon our relationship with CHRIST. When the relationship is as it should, then we will have the right relationship with our fellow Christian brother or sister and we will be equipped to serve our LORD.

Confront in Love - Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 5:13-26; 6:1-5 - May 20, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Confront in Love – May 20, 2007

Our scripture is Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 5:13-15, 16-26; Galatians 6:1-5.

Our last two (2) lessons have been building blocks to prepare a Christian to handle conflict and be a peacemaker. The key, in my opinion, is found in Galatians 6:1 - 1 Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you won’t be tempted also.. “You who are spiritual” is so important in being a peacemaker. So what makes a Christian spiritual? Having the mind of CHRIST!

When we began our study, we examined self-ambitions and how we need to have the mind of CHRIST in us. We need to see others through the eyes of CHRIST. HE saw others in all circumstances and walks of life. HE gave HIS life that all who believe in HIM will have eternal life.

I contend that we cannot muster up the where-with-all in our human strength to have the mind of CHRIST. We can only have the mind of CHRIST as we grow and mature in HIM through an intimate loving relationship. It is a process called sanctification. We will not go around like a monk or somber but we maintain our personality which will be transformed by the renewing of our minds by the HOLY SPIRIT. It is abiding in CHRIST and getting to know HIM through fellowship, prayer, studying the scripture, yielding our will to HIM and obedience. Our part is to tell JESUS that we want to have an intimate loving relationship with HIM and for HIM to show us how to have that relationship.

We as humans are made up of body, soul and spirit. Without CHRIST one or a combination of these natures will rule our lives. The very lowest level of rule is when the body or flesh rules our lives. The flesh or body seeks to please itself any way it can. If it means others are hurt, then so be it. The flesh wants to be pleased.
The rule of the soul is a notch up from the rule of the body. The rule of the soul has some restraints and wars with the body to a degree.

The highest form of rule from a human point-of-view is when the spirit rules our body. When the spirit rules it can display a very moral nature. But keep in mind this is not the born-again nature that only CHRIST can give us when we ask HIM to forgive our sins and come into our lives. It is a moral human nature that often those who have it will say, “I do not need CHRIST because I live a better life than the Christians I know”. From an outward point-of-view, this can be true. The sad part is they are without CHRIST and need salvation.

Isaiah 64:6 (a):

6 All of us have become like something unclean, and all our righteous acts are like a polluted[5] Lit menstrual garment;

The scripture is clear that the very best we as a human can do are like a filthy rag or a polluted garment when compared to what CHRIST can do through HIS cleansing blood in our lives. All humans have sinned and we need to be cleansed from our sin. JESUS washes away the sins of every believer and we are “whiter than snow.”

Romans 3:23:
23 For all have sinned and fall short of the[20] Or and lack the glory of God.

Because of sin in our lives every human has inherited the death penalty for that sin.

Romans 6:23:

23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

CHRIST gave HIS life so all humans who ask HIM to forgive them of their sins, believe HE died on the cross for their sins, believe that HE arose from the dead and ask HIM to come into their lives will experience the miracle of rebirth in their spirit and receive the gift of eternal life. Each believer will receive the gift of the HOLY SPIRIT, Who will empower them and confirm that they are children of GOD.

The very ultimate rule in the human life is the rule of the born-again spirit. But even the rule of the born-again spirit is a process of yielding our will to the rule of GOD in our lives.

I spoke earlier that one of the three (3) natures rule our lives before we become a Christian. Depending upon which nature or combination of natures that have ruled our lives means that we bring the attributes of those natures with us when we become a Christian.

Often many of us spend much of our lives committing those natures to the rule and authority of CHRIST. This is why we must have the relationship with CHRIST to help us be all that CHRIST wants us to be in service and obedience to HIM. When we have the proper relationship with CHRIST, it helps us to maintain the proper balance between our relationship to the human nature and our spiritual nature.

Let’s read Galatians 5:16-26: (This gives a comparison between the rule of the flesh versus the rule of the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives.)

The Spirit versus the Flesh
16 I say then, • walk by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are obvious:[2] Other mss add adultery [3] Lit obvious, which are: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, 21 envy,[4] Other mss add murders drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar, about which I tell you in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,[5] Or faithfulness 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. 26 We must not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

This is why I say that it is a process to be a peacemaker. It is important that we know ourselves first. When we really know ourselves, we know that we are saved by grace. Except for the grace of GOD, our journey through life would be drastically different. We will also know that many of our brothers and sisters in CHRIST may have a lot of their old nature that they will have to contend with while they grow and mature in CHRIST.

Let’s read Matthew 18:15-17:

15 “If your brother sins against you,[9] Other mss omit against you go and rebuke him in private.[10] Lit him between you and him alone If he listens to you, you have won your brother. 16 But if he won’t listen, take one or two more with you, so that by the testimony[11] Lit mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be established.[12] Dt 19:15 17 If he pays no attention to them, tell the church.[13] Or congregation But if he doesn’t pay attention even to the church, let him be like an unbeliever[14] Or like a Gentile and a tax collector to you.

This is JESUS speaking. First, the matter is identified as a sin. It is not some trivial matter. JESUS tells us to first go to a brother in private. The attempt is to resolve the matter in private. If it is resolved after the meeting with the person in private, that is good. But in this situation, after giving it time it is not resolved.

So the next step is to take one or two Christian brothers or sisters with you to resolve the matter. Again give it time for the matter to be resolved. If not then the next step is to take the matter before the “ecclesia” or “the called-out ones” or the church. The implication is not to drag the person before the entire church but to go to the leadership of the church. The leadership should be spiritually mature believers.

If the matter cannot be resolved, then the person is to be considered as a non-believer. Now this is not abandoning the person. Later in the scripture JESUS tells the parable about the lost sheep. The idea is to seek to restore the person as they would seek a spiritually lost person. JESUS sought salvation for unbelievers and tax collectors.

Let’s read Galatians 5:1 and 13-15:

1 Christ has liberated us into freedom. Therefore stand firm and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery.

13 For you are called to freedom, brothers; only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love. 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in one statement: Love your neighbor as yourself.[1] Lv 19:18 15 But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another.

The Galatians had a mixed view of Christianity. Some thought that in order to be a Christian you had to follow the law and be circumcised. Paul made it clear that was wrong. Then there was another faction that thought since you are saved by grace then you were free to do any thing you wanted to do. Paul said that was not correct either. As a Christian you are free from the law and from having to follow all the rules and regulations of Judaism. Therefore, do not allow yourself to come under the bondage of the slavery of the law and all the rules and regulations.

By the same token, you are no longer under the law but do not take that freedom to do what ever you want to do. You need to “Love your neighbor as yourself.” You are still responsible for your actions. You represent CHRIST to all those you encounter each day. CHRIST loved you so much that HE died for you and HE also died for all people you will encounter. Seek to share with them the hope, joy and assurance that salvation gives you.

Let’s read Galatians 6:1-5:

1 Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you won’t be tempted also. 2 Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone considers himself to be something when he is nothing, he is deceiving himself. 4 But each person should examine his own work, and then he will have a reason for boasting in himself alone, and not in respect to someone else. 5 For each person will have to carry his own load.

The idea in verse one (1) is that the person is caught off guard. This is not a person that is knowingly living in sin. Any of us are subject to being caught off guard. An old nature can raise its head in our lives. It is important that someone who has their feet on the solid rock of CHRIST come to the aid of the person caught in the wrongdoing. It implies that a young Christian should be careful about stepping into a situation before they have had time to know themselves and to grow and mature in CHRIST. It is easy for the one coming to the aid of another to become ensnared by the very thing they are attempting a brother or sister to overcome. This is true even of the spiritually mature.

I know sometimes when recovering addicts try to help others they can be enticed to have a relapse.

Paul tells us that we need to help one another carry the burdens we encounter along life’s journey. Burdens as used here are different from “load” used later. A burden is a weight that a person carries. We can help another person carry a burden. We may need to come along side a person and see them though a tough time in their lives.
Whereas “load” is like the cargo a ship carries or the backpack a person carries. This carries the idea there are some loads in life that we as individuals have to carry.

We are all accountable to GOD as individuals. We must not compare ourselves to others. We can become puffed up and think we are spiritually superior to other Christians when we think we are better than this person or that person. As we grow and mature in the LORD, we recognize how far we miss the mark and how much we depend upon the grace of the LORD. We must always compare ourselves to CHRIST.

Each Christian is to grow into the image of CHRIST.

2 Corinthians 3:18:

18 We all, with unveiled faces, are reflecting[5] Or are looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord and are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory;[6] Progressive glorification or sanctification this is from the Lord who is the Spirit.[7] Or from the Spirit of the Lord, or from the Lord, the Spirit

Accept Responsibility - Matthew 7:1-5, James 4:1-4 and 6-12 - May 13, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Accept Responsibility – May 13, 2007

Our scripture is Matthew 7:1-5, James 4:1-4 and 6-12.

This is lesson two (2) in our series. We are dealing with our nature, the flesh, as a Christian. We all begin life as a human. Some come to CHRIST early in life and avoid some very bad natures developing within them and becoming strongholds in their lives. Others get very caught up in the things of the world and struggle, sometimes a lifetime to break free of the strongholds they have allowed into their lives.

Both are born-again brothers and sisters in CHRIST but battle within with a variety of issues or natures. This is why we must confess to the LORD all the issues in our lives with which we wrestle. When we do not confess to GOD what is going on within us, it is our attempt to hide it from GOD. This, in turn, allows the thing hidden to grow stronger. Our flesh nature wants to rule our lives and knows we are not revealing a certain issue or thing to GOD. Since Satan cannot know our thoughts, I think it is through our flesh nature that Satan knows our weakness. This is all he needs to wreak havoc in our lives.

Satan cannot know our thoughts. When some unwanted nature raises its head in my life, I rebuke it out loud so Satan will know that I have confessed it to my JESUS.

We might say, “Well, we are GOD’S children and HE already knows what we are thinking, so why do we have to confess it. When we confess to GOD what we are thinking, it shows that we want to expose the issue(s) and we seek GOD’S help in dealing with it or them. If we cannot deal with them with the LORD’S help, we need to pray and seek professional help. The LORD provides gifted Christians to council us with the issue(s) in your life.

There are many addictions, cravings and desires we as humans and born-again Christians have to deal with – guilt of previous wrong doings, abortion, drugs, sex, pornography, alcohol, lying, cheating, stealing, taking advantage of others, gambling, spending money foolishly, accumulating things, bad tempers, abuse, etc. Life can get very complicated because of our past indulgences. Satan likes nothing more than to discourage, defeat and destroy all humans; non-believers and especially Christians.

Satan is the enemy of GOD. GOD has already defeated Satan through JESUS but the war rages on within every human. The hope of all mankind is JESUS. First of all, Satan does not want any human to accept JESUS as their SAVIOR. So he does all he can to prevent a person from accepting CHRIST as their SAVIOR. If he loses that battle and the person becomes a Christian, Satan wants to defeat and destroy him or her. Satan wants them to compromise their testimony. He wants to neutralize them into feeling that they are so bad and unclean that even GOD does not want them. BUT GUESS WHAT??? If you have CHRIST as your SAVIOR, then you are GOD’S CHILD AND THAT WILL NEVER CHANGE!!!

So do not allow the imaginings of the mind to take hold but as soon as they become a thought confess it and wash the mind with the cleansing of GOD’S Word. Scripture memory and quoting scripture is the way to wash the mind, when unwelcome thoughts enter our minds.

Psalm 119:11 (KJV)

11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

GOD’S Word washes our minds with HIS detergent to help get the filth out of our minds. We must dwell upon HIS Word and the fact that CHRIST cleanses us with HIS shed blood and CHRIST in us is our strength.

KNOW THIS, no matter what you have done as a born-again Christian, you are a child of GOD and that will never change.

A key scripture is 1 John1:9:
9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

The Christians part is to confess their sins and repent, then GOD, through CHRIST, forgives, cleanses and restores. Do Not let un-confessed sin shackle you and keep you from experiencing the joy of the LORD in your lives.

Our lesson today is divided into three (3) spiritual topics for any Christian to consider:

Evaluate Yourself.

Recognize Conflict’s Source.

Submit to GOD.

Let’s read Matthew 7:1-5: (Evaluate Yourself)

1 “Do not judge, so that you won’t be judged. 2 For with the judgment you use,[1] Lit you judge you will be judged, and with the measure you use,[2] Lit you measure it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye but don’t notice the log in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and look, there’s a log in your eye? 5 Hypocrite! First take the log out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.

Be careful how you judge others. It is hard for most of us to see ourselves as others see us. The wrongs we do or our children and grandchildren do, do not seem as bad as what others do.

James is telling us to critically examine our lives and deal with the huge log in our own eye before we try to remove a small piece of sawdust out of our brother’s eye.

When we look critically and objectively at our own lives and know ourselves, it often causes us to be more empathetic with others. We realize, except for the grace of GOD, there we go.

This is not meaning we are to be overly tolerant of the things others do but to be more understanding of some of the things that people do. We are to hate the sin but love the sinner. When we understand, we are in a better position to help them with their problem. The Bible tells us that when the blind try to help the blind, both fall into the ditch. So we need to make sure we see clearly before we try to help others. And to help others, we must first know ourselves.

Let’s read James 4:1-4: (Recognize Conflict’s Source)

1 What is the source of the wars and the fights among you? Don’t they come from the cravings that are at war within you?[1] Lit war in your members 2 You desire and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. You do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and don’t receive because you ask wrongly, so that you may spend it on your desires for pleasure. 4 Adulteresses![2] Other mss read Adulterers and adulteresses Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? So whoever wants to be the world’s friend becomes God’s enemy.

This scripture gets to the heart of our flesh nature. Most every human has cravings and desires. How we satisfy those cravings and desires usually dictates our lifestyle. When these words were written, the culture of that day was such that murder was common. Brute force was used to settle things. You took what you wanted.

James is saying there is a better way. Ask GOD to grant you the things you desire. The shift is from take into your own hands to get what you want, to ask GOD. This shifts the focus from self to GOD and what HE desires for our lives. When our will is in line with GOD’S will then whatever we ask, we receive.

Let’s read James 4:6-12: (Submit to GOD)

6 But He gives greater grace. Therefore He says: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.[4] Pr 3:34 7 Therefore, submit to God. But resist the Devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners, and purify your hearts, double-minded people! 9 Be miserable and mourn and weep. Your laughter must change to mourning and your joy to sorrow. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you. 11 Don’t criticize one another, brothers. He who criticizes a brother or judges his brother criticizes the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver and judge[5] Other mss omit and judge who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?

GOD has a way of getting our attention when we get too big for our britches. GOD wants HS children to come under HIS rule and authority. HE wants us to choose to resist the Devil and draw near to HIM.

All Christians are under GOD’S grace. Grace is unmerited favor. We do not earn grace. Grace is a free gift for being GOD’S child. GOD knows that we, as human and Christians, will not always do what we are supposed to do. HE cuts us slack with grace. But HE does not want us to become arrogant. Grace is not a do what you want anytime you want to. It is when we are trying to be obedient to GOD and serve HIM and we blow it.

When we think more highly of ourselves than we ought, we think we can do anything we want. We think we are beyond the correction of GOD in our lives and act as if we are GOD.

When we have this attitude, GOD will resist us. When GOD resists us, it gets our attention and it is time for a spiritual checkup.

There is a scripture we need to be aware of and use as prompted by the HOLY SPIRIT:
Psalm 139:23-24:
23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. 24 See if there is any offensive[9] Or idolatrous way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.
So what is the cure when we find ourselves in the situation that GOD is resisting us?

Submit to GOD – Completely place your trust in GOD and do not rely upon your own understanding.

Resist the Devil – GOD tells us when we resist the Devil, he will flee. Quote scripture when you resist the Devil. CHRIST used scripture to defeat Satan when HE was tempted in the dessert.

Draw near to GOD – This is a term used when a priest was going to the temple to perform his duty. GOD is in us as Christians but even though HE is in us, we still have to recognize and acknowledge HIM. HE never overrides our right to choose. When we draw near GOD, we recognize and acknowledge that HE is the source of our strength. When HE stands along beside us, who or what can stand against us? WOW!!!

Cleanse – Refers to confessing our sins to GOD. Confessing is agreeing with GOD that we have missed the mark. JESUS is the only source for any of us being cleansed whiter than snow.

Double minded – Gives the idea of a bifurcated life style, hanging onto the world with one hand and onto GOD with the other hand. When you are double-minded, you feel compromised because you cannot serve two (2) masters and do the things that you know are not pleasing to GOD. Yet you are not confident enough in GOD or trust HIM enough to rely upon HIM to guide and direct your life.

Miserable, mourn, weep – This ties back to once we confess our sins we need to repent of those sins. We are not to be flippant about confessing our wrong doings. GOD takes our attitude very seriously. HIS desire for us is to fully represent HIM to others in the world.

Let me share with you something the LORD revealed to me while studying for this lesson.

Family Traits:

When a baby is born, what is one of the first things many of us do and say? We look at the baby and try to figure out which parent or grandparent the baby looks like. We often say, “Oh, he or she looks just like their mother or father.” Even as the baby grows, we continue to look for family characteristics and often say or hear; they are a chip off the old block. This could refer to how the child looks or acts or both. The parents are very proud when they hear or see favorable family characteristics and traits displayed in their children.

Have you ever thought about our GOD, our FATHER, looking down from heaven and looking at us and calling over JESUS and the HOLY SPIRIT along with all the heavenly hosts and looking at (Insert Your Name) and asking them, “Who do you think he or she looks like? Are they looking more like MY Precious SON JESUS, WHO IS THE SPITTING IMAGE OF HIS FATHER? Or are they looking like their old self or the world?

GOD wants us to grow and mature into the image of HIS SON. It pleases GOD when we look more like JESUS as we grow and mature in HIM. Who do you think you look like? Are you growing and maturing into the image of JESUS?

Romans 8:29:
29 For those He foreknew[18] From eternity God knew His people and entered into a personal relationship with them He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers.

Humble yourself – James tells us to humble ourselves. When we humble ourselves, GOD will exalt us. When we allow our self or the flesh to direct and control our lives, we can become self sufficient and even arrogant. When we realize that we are completely dependent upon the LORD for every beat of our heart, every breath of air, even the number of hairs on our head, for every aspect of our lives, we stand in awe of HIS care for us throughout our lives.

James then tells us not to criticize or judge others. There is but one judge and that is JESUS. GOD gave the authority to judge to JESUS. WHO better to judge, than the ONE WHO lived upon earth as 100% human and yet 100% divine? THE ONE WHO overcame the world and lived a sinless life as a human. Yet HE was tempted in all ways like we are but remained sinless. We are but weary travelers upon the road of life. Except for the grace of GOD, many of us would find ourselves in the same state as the most wretched person or circumstance of which we know.

Every Christian comes to salvation by way of the cross and confesses his or her sins and receives forgiveness. Our sin, in essence, is poured into CHRIST and HIS righteousness is poured into us. We are born into GOD’S family and at that moment we receive GOD’S grace, eternal life and filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. We are transformed into a new creation. GOD calls us HIS child and JESUS calls us HIS brother or sister.

Do you want to be a friend and child of GOD? Then ask JESUS to forgive you of your sins and to come into you life right now. May the flood gates of HIS presence in your life over whelm you as you receive HIM.

Honor GOD - Philippians 1:27-30; 2:1-8; 4:2-9 - May 6, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Honor GOD – May 6, 2007

This begins a new series of study entitled “Being a Peacemaker.”

May 6 - “Honor God” – How can I please and honor GOD in conflict situations?
May 13 – “Accept Responsibility” – How do I accept responsibility for my part in a conflict?
May 20 – “Confront in Love” – How can I confront someone in a loving manner that will help resolve a conflict?
May 27 – “Be Reconciled” – How do I pursue genuine resolution in a conflict situation?

Our scripture is Philippians 1:27-30; 2:1-8 and 4:2-9.

The Apostle Paul is in prison in Rome when he wrote this letter to the Philippians. The purpose of the letter is to thank the Philippians for the gift they had sent to Paul by Epaphroditus (ih-paf-roh-DIGH-tuhs) a member of the church at Philippi. Paul had established the church at Philippi on his second missionary journey. Philippi is the first Christian church to be established in Europe. The information regarding the spiritual health of the church was delivered to Paul by Epaphroditus.

Paul is encouraging the church to keep in mind that they are representing the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Even though Paul is in chains he has a strong prayer life and he acknowledges that GOD is using his time in prison to spread the gospel. No matter where we are, as a Christian, GOD uses us and we are always HIS representatives.

Let’s read Philippians 1:27-30 and 2:1-8:

27 Just one thing: live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind,[13] Lit soul working side by side for the faith of the gospel, 28 not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is evidence of their destruction, but of your deliverance—and this is from God. 29 For it has been given to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, 30 having the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear about me.

Paul is a role model for serving CHRIST. Paul reminds the Philippians not to forget their first love, CHRIST. Paul is holding them accountable for their actions as Christians and to remember that GOD is more powerful than those who might fight against them. When you are on the front lines serving CHRIST you will encounter opposition but greater is HE that is in you than he that is in the world.

The bottom line, the living body of CHRIST, the living church, needs to stand united in the face of opposition. Unity of the body of CHRIST is important for the church to function effectively and to keep its focus on the calling of GOD. Unity is important for both the members of the church and the world. Non-believers are always observing Christians and how they function in the body. Christians individually and collectively represent CHRIST to each other and to the world. Bad news spreads quickly.

Philippians 2:1-8:

1 If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by thinking the same way, having the same love, sharing the same feelings, focusing on one goal. 3 Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. 4 Everyone should look out not [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

These are positive statements. “If” can be interpreted as “because.” CHRIST in you produces encouragement, love, fellowship in the SPIRIT, affection and mercy. Paul in essence is saying make me proud of you by bringing joy to my heart by letting the attributes of CHRIST show forth in you lives. Because you are Christians and filled with the SPIRIT you do not have to win a dispute as non-believers do. But consider the point-of-view of fellow Christians. Other Christians may not have grown spiritually as much as you or they may be coming from a very different background than you do. So listen to their views and try to bring understanding through orderly discussion and using examples that are authentic, such as the scriptures.

Philippi had a very diverse population. As such, it is likely the church of Philippi had a very diverse membership. Paul in essence is saying use your diversity to achieve unity and guard against being dictatorial.

One is not to compromise on the fundamentals of the gospel but there are times when diverse people, focused on a common issue, can achieve a greater understanding of the issue(s) when they consider each others views. It is very important that the fundamentals of the issue(s) not be violated or compromised. The scripture is always the final authority.

Paul used a statement “sharing the same feelings.” This means to be “like-souled”. Always keep in mind that all believers have a common bond, GOD. But the flesh can raise its head in Christians through “rivalry” or selfish ambitions, conceit, vainglorious or groundless pride such attitudes result in disputes and factions. This dishonors GOD’S name and the living body. This can raise its head when a Christian thinks they are more spiritual than their fellow brothers or sisters in CHRIST. When this happens it is a clue that the HOLY SPIRIT is not in control of that person’s life.

All Christians must keep in mind that we all come to CHRIST by way of the cross. The ground at the cross is level. When we grow and mature in CHRIST, our spiritual nature wants those seeking truth to find truth and grow and mature spiritually. The revelation of truth is the work of the HOLY SPIRIT. Some times this requires patience, on the Christians part, to allow the HOLY SPIRIT time to reveal truth to the seeker.

Spiritual arrogance gives us a clue that the nature and attitude of CHRIST is not being manifested in our lives. We need a flesh check by the HOLY SPIRIT to search our hearts.

Christ’s Humility and Exaltation
5 Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, 6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage.[1] Or to be grasped, or to be held on to 7 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, 8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death—even to death on a cross.

CHRIST is the foundation and every Christian’s example. If anyone had the right to exert HIS authority, it was JESUS. JESUS was 100% human and HE was 100% Divine. HE could have exerted HIS power but instead HE allowed GOD the FATHER to totally direct HIS life. HE humbled Himself and became the servant.

I have often tried to place myself in the place of JESUS when HE faced various issues in life. I confess if I had the power HE had, some people, HE encountered, would have been fried. Yet CHRIST knew HE had a mission to accomplish and HE had to rely upon the FATHER to direct every part of HIS life even unto death. Selfish ambitions usually distort the vision of humans. JESUS being human knew allowing self to direct HIS life could result in compromise and HE could not compromise one iota.

Paul urged the Philippians to consider the fact that CHRIST, GOD’S SON, was not selfish and believers should follow HIS example. CHRIST being humble brought honor to THE FATHER and so can all believers bring honor to CHRIST by being humble.

We skip to a situation between two (2) women in the church at Philippi.

Let’s read Philippians 4:2-3:
2 I urge Euodia (yoo-OH-dih-uh) and I urge Syntyche (SIN-tih-kee) to agree in the Lord. 3 Yes, I also ask you, true partner,[1] Or true Syzygus, possibly a person’s name to help these women who have contended for the gospel at my side, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers whose names are in the book of life.

There was some dissension between Euodia and Syntyche.
Speculation is that the matter of dissension was not major but a matter that needed to be settled.

Paul knew these women and he knew that they were true believers. He wanted them to reconcile their differences. Paul asked someone in the church who Paul knew as a “true partner” to act as a mediator to help these women to settle their differences.

Let’s read Philippians 4: 4-7:
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Paul is a great example of rejoicing in the LORD always. Paul is in prison and he is rejoicing in the LORD. Paul was in a prison cell sometime earlier and he and Silas were singing. Paul is saying when life hands you lemons, then make lemonade. Know that the LORD is with you in all matters and make your requests known to HIM because the power to resolve your situation rests in HIS hands. If you are not delivered then HE is the ONE who will give you the peace to get through the situation because in faith you went to HIM.

In my opinion genuine rejoicing in the LORD is the result of spiritual growth and maturity. We as humans can fake how we think a Christian is suppose to act under difficult circumstances. This does not mean when bad things happen we are not to grieve or be upset. It means we have the strength of the LORD in us and HIS power to draw from, when we seek it. Our joy is in the LORD and HE is the hope and power of every believer.

When bad things happen and we are upset with the LORD, I think we need to be honest and tell HIM. We should ask HIM to help us through a matter or situation or to help us have an understanding of the matter or situation.

When we harbor bitterness, it will compromise our testimony. Confess all bitterness before the LORD and ask HIM to help us get to the point of rejoicing in HIM.

May our rejoicing be genuine because of our relationship with our LORD. Let our requests be known to our LORD. Be honest with HIM during difficult times in our lives. Whether it is praise or a complaint when we are honest before the LORD and let HIM know of our honest requests, it will result in the peace of GOD being manifested in our lives. During difficult times, we need to have the power, strength, care, love and assurance of our LORD in our lives.

Let’s read Philippians 4:8-9:
8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. 9 Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Paul realizes that we as humans can be discouraged. Paul is saying focus on the positive and not on the negative. But what Paul is saying focus on that which is absolute truth, honorable, just, pure, lovely and commendable and not on any thing based upon false notions or false assumptions. Dwell on the things that are correct and fundamentally valid. Paul is saying, what I have taught you; I have practiced during the difficult times in my life. I know from experience the peace of GOD. Therefore I know this same peace will also be with you in all matters. You must stay focused on GOD and HIS power, provision and truth.

When we focus on the true positives, as a result from our relationship with the LORD, it is then GOD’S peace will be manifested in our lives. Peace refers to wholeness under GOD’S rule, which includes proper relationships and actions. Our relationship with GOD is critical in maintaining our relationship with fellow humans.