Living 3:16 – With Passion for Jesus - Revelation 1 and 3 - March 30, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – Living 3:16 – With Passion for Jesus – March 30, 2008

This is the final lesson in this series of study.

Our scripture is Revelation 1:9-11, 12-13, 17-18; 3:14-17, 18-22.

The Book of Revelation is the revelation of GOD and JESUS to the Apostle John while he was exiled on the Island of Patmos and to all believers.

Revelation 1:1-3 establishes the purpose of the revelation:
1 The revelation of[1] Or Revelation of, or A revelation of Jesus Christ that God gave Him to show His • slaves what must quickly[2] Or soon take place.[3] Dn 2:28–29,45 He sent it and signified it[4] Made it known through symbols through His angel to His slave John, 2 who testified to God’s word and to the testimony[5] Or witness about Jesus Christ,[6] Rv 1:9; 12:17; 19:10; 20:4 in all he saw.[7] Lit as many as he saw 3 Blessed[8] Rv 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7,14 is the one who reads and blessed are those who hear the words of this prophecy and keep[9] Or follow, or obey what is written in it, because the time is near!

The second coming of CHRIST has been near since HE left earth. Another thought is that the time to record this last book of the Bible through HIS trusted servant John is also about to come to a close.

Let’s read Revelation 1:9-11:
9 I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation, kingdom, and perseverance in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of God’s word and the testimony about Jesus.[23] Lit the witness of Jesus [24] Rv 1:2; 6:9; 12:17; 19:10; 20:4 10 I was in the Spirit[25] Lit I became in the Spirit or in spirit [26] John was brought by God’s Spirit into a realm of spiritual vision. [27] Rv 4:2; 17:3; 21:10 on the Lord’s day,[28] Sunday and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet 11 saying, “Write on a scroll[29] Or book what you see and send it to the seven churches: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.”

The Apostle John had been exiled to the Island of Patmos by the Roman Emperor Domitian (doh MISH uhn) for being an outspoken Christian leader. This marked a period in history of emperor worship. Domitian ruled between 81-96 A.D. Domitian took seriously the idea that he was a god worthy of being worshiped and cracked down on the Christians.

The Island of Patmos is an island about ten (10) miles long and five (5) miles wide and located about sixty (60) miles from Ephesus.

The Apostle John is writing to all Christians then and now. He does not elevate himself above fellow Christians. He considers himself a fellow laborer in ministry.
John, the author of the Book of John and 1, 2 and 3 John, now records the revelation GOD gave to him on the Island of Patmos. He was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day. This could mean it was on Sunday or it could mean a day in the future since GOD is revealing future events.

John heard a loud voice. I don’t know if you have ever heard the voice of GOD or an angel but I did many years ago and it was 360 degrees in my head as I have never heard a human speak to me. The message was clear and distinctive. When GOD speaks HE intends for the person to whom HE is speaking will hear HIM. It is a moment you will never forget.

John is instructed to write what is revealed and send it to the seven (7) churches listed. This is a wake-up call to some of these churches and is a wake-up call to Christians and the living church today.

Let’s read Revelation 1:12-13, 17-18:
12 I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me. When I turned I saw seven gold lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was One like the • Son of Man,[30] Or like a son of man [31] Dn 7:13 dressed in a long robe, and with a gold sash wrapped around His chest.
17 When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. He laid His right hand on me, and said, “Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last, 18 and the Living One. I was dead, but look—I am alive forever and ever, and I hold the keys of death and • Hades.

John hears a voice and turns to who was speaking to him. He first saw seven (7) separate gold lampstands. Standing among the lampstands was ONE like the Son of Man. The term Son of Man is a term JESUS used to refer to Himself when HE was with the disciples. It is a term that represented HIM as both human and divine.

JESUS is wearing a long robe with a gold sash around HIS chest. This identifies JESUS as the High Priest. John immediately falls to the feet of CHRIST. This is a typical response for those who encounter GOD, CHRIST or a heavenly being. JESUS quickly tells John not to be afraid. Calming the person GOD or CHRIST desires to give a message to is important because a frightened person is less likely to focus on the message. JESUS further confirms this by telling John that HE is the JESUS that died and is alive for all eternity. HE is the First and the Last. There will be no other. It is not necessary because all has been fulfilled in HIM. JESUS holds the keys to death and Hades because HE conquered sin and death. I wonder if this statement brought memories to John.

Let’s read Matthew 16:15-19: JESUS asked HIS Disciples a very important question when JESUS was on earth.
15 “But you,” He asked them, “who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the • Messiah, the Son of the living God!” 17 And Jesus responded, “Simon son of Jonah,[8] Or son of John you are blessed because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father in heaven. 18 And I also say to you that you are Peter,[9] Peter (Gk Petros) = a specific stone or rock and on this rock[10] Rock (Gk petra) = a rocky crag or bedrock I will build My church, and the forces[11] Lit gates of • Hades will not overpower it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth is already bound[12] Or earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth is already loosed[13] Or earth will be loosed in heaven.”

The lampstand in the Old Testament was one stand with seven (7) lamps.

The Old Testament reveals in Zechariah 4:1-2:
1 The angel who was speaking with me then returned and roused me as one awakened out of sleep. 2 He asked me, “What do you see?” I replied, “I see a solid gold lampstand there with a bowl on its top. It has seven lamps on it and seven channels for each of[1] Or seven lips to; each lip would hold a wick for the lamp. the lamps on its top.

In Revelation 1:12 there are seven (7) individual lampstands, each having one (1) light source.

What I am about to say is speculation on my part. So just meditate on it and only embrace it if the Holy Spirit leads you to so. The lampstand with the seven lamps with one source of oil represents the power of GOD before CHRIST. The seven (7) individual lampstands in Revelation, each with its own source of oil, represents the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT in each believer. CHRIST gave HIS life to redeem mankind from sin and death. This made it possible for the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell the body of each believer. This makes believers accountable individually and collectively. Collectively means in a body of believers as the living church.

The gold lampstand with the single reservoir of oil represented the power of GOD feeding the seven (7) lamps. Of course, this was before CHRIST came to earth as a human. GOD was the oil that produced the light in the world.

After CHRIST came to earth as a human, HE became the oil that is the source of the light for the individual lamps (believers). CHRIST stated in the New Testament that HE is the vine and believers are the branches. Branches can be dwelt with individually and pruned as needed.

When CHRIST came to earth as a human, HE was tempted in all ways as we are, yet HE remained sinless. HE willingly gave HIS life to conquer sin and death for every human who accepts HIM as SAVIOR. HE paid the price required by GOD to redeem mankind. GOD did not have to allow HIS ONLY SON to come to earth and CHRIST did not have to come to earth but their love for all mankind would not allow them to do anything else. CHRIST died as a human and was dependent upon GOD THE FATHER to resurrect HIM from the dead. If CHRIST had not passed the sinless test, HE would not have been resurrected. The fact HE was resurrected is proof that HE conquered both sin and death. All any human has to do is believe that CHRIST died for him or her and ask HIM to forgive him or her of his or her sins and to come into his or her lives to become a born-again Christian.

After CHRIST suffered, died and was resurrected humans no longer had to depend on going to the temple to offer sacrifices for their sins and have a priest go before GOD and ask for their forgiveness for sins. In general, in the Old Testament the priests went before GOD to ask for forgiveness for the sins of a group of people. Since CHRIST each person can go before GOD through CHRIST to ask for forgiveness. Believers have direct access to GOD and this is called the priesthood of believers.

Every individual is accountable to GOD for his or her sins. Since CHRIST, anyone seeking a personal relationship with CHRIST does not need to go through a priest. Every human has direct access to GOD through CHRIST for salvation.
We need to pay special attention to the next scripture.

Let’s read Revelation 3:14-17:
14 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: “The • Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originator[12] Or Ruler, or Source, or Beginning [13] Col 1:18; Jn 1:1–5 of God’s creation says: 15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot. 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit[14] Or spit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, ‘I’m rich; I have become wealthy, and need nothing,’ and you don’t know that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked,

To me this was puzzling. Why does CHRIST address the letter to an angel? Who is the angel? Here are some of the mental gymnastics I went through. All angels are under the authority of GOD and CHRIST. Therefore if an angel was in charge, HE would tell them directly to, “Straighten up.”

The word “Angel” means messenger. Generally the messenger in most churches is the pastor. Whoever is the leader giving the message and leading the body of believers is the “Angel.” If you are the messenger, pastor, Sunday school teacher, deacon, church leader and the list goes on, you are accountable to GOD. In fact every believer is accountable to GOD when those in leadership positions have deviated from Biblical truth. This is a tough situation to be in because you need to pray about approaching leadership and revealing the message the LORD has revealed to you and you need to be prepared to find another body of believers.

JESUS identifies Himself as the final message on this subject. HE is the final authority and there is not argument. JESUS identifies the problems in the church at Laodicea. They thought they were rich spiritually but they were poor.
JESUS used a very appropriate illustration. They were neither cold nor hot but lukewarm. Luke warm made HIM vomit. They immediately connected with the example.

Cities get their water from various sources. Some got their water from cold springs and others got their water from hot springs. This was the case for Laodicea. They got their water from a hot spring about six (6) miles away. But by the time the original hot water got to Laodicea it was lukewarm and it was nauseating to drink.

This verse about being lukewarm stayed on my mind until I committed my life to CHRIST years ago. I wanted CHRIST but I also wanted what the world had to offer. I was hanging onto CHRIST with one hand and onto the world with the other. I always felt compromised and I was. Many Christians find themselves in the same situation. But we cannot serve two (2) masters. I always felt that if I committed my life to CHRIST, HE would send me to Africa and Africa did not appeal to me. That notion was a stumbling block of Satan. I remember the moment I committed my life to CHRIST and the very first words in my head where, “Shaw you have blown it now, you will have to go to Africa.” I remember my response. “I do not care because I want to serve the LORD if it is Africa then I will go to Africa.” But the LORD to date has not called me to go to Africa.

Compared to eternity, this world has nothing to offer that remotely compares to serving the LORD. It is all about relationship. Looking in our own strength and through our human eyes, serving the LORD looks impossible and it is. That is why we need the relationship with HIM because HE prepares HIS children to serve HIM. Preparation takes time, through a process called sanctification.

It is a very sad thing when a believer thinks he or she is serving the LORD but is serving himself or herself or man. This is why it is vital that all believers have the right relationship with CHRIST and to seek the fullness of HIM in our lives. It is important that GOD, through our relationship with HIM, reveals the work HE has going on and invites us to join HIM in that work.

Let’s read Revelation 3:18-22:
18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire so that you may be rich, and white clothes so that you may be dressed and your shameful nakedness not be exposed, and ointment to spread on your eyes so that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be committed[15] Or be zealous and repent. 20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and have dinner with him, and he with Me. 21 The victor: I will give him the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I also won the victory and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22 “Anyone who has an ear should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Laodicea was a wealthy city located on or near one of the major trade routes. It was a city with a garment business, textiles, banking and a medical school. The medical school had formulated an eye salve to treat eye conditions and a treatment for ear infections. It is interesting they wanted to help others to see and hear better physically but they were blind and deaf to their spiritual condition.

But JESUS offers them hope through HIS grace. If they get their hearts in tune with HIM they will discover the gold that HE offers. Once they have a change of heart they will be dressed in white, which represents purity and HE will heal their eyes of spiritual blindness so they can see spiritually.

Having the right relationship with HIM is vital to having the gold refined in the fire. This gold is not earned but comes from grace and having a change of heart, repentance.

Do you recall our lesson? 1 Corinthians 3:10-15: This is the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthian Christians.
10 According to God’s grace that was given to me, as a skilled master builder I have laid a foundation, and another builds on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it, 11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] The Day of Christ’s judgment of believers will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5] Lit yet so as through fire

Wood, hay and straw are the materials we choose to build with and when they are tested with fire they will be consumed. When we have the relationship, HE directs our activities, and then we build using gold, silver and costly stones. The beauty is that we never know that we are building with these precious materials. When they are tested with fire they will survive. That is our reward that I believe we in turn can lay at the feet of JESUS because without HIM we would have not earned the first thing.

JESUS makes it clear that HE loves HIS children and because HE loves them, HE disciplines them.

Verse 20 is one of the most used verses when presenting the gospel of salvation to a person. When you see the picture of this scene, the artist placed JESUS outside the door but the door does not have a door handle on the outside. The artist was asked, why? He said that every person must be the one to open the door and that can only be done from the inside. Salvation requires a decision from each person. Do I allow HIM to come into my life or do I keep HIM out? Salvation is so simple it seems to be very hard. I have heard of those seeking salvation simply saying, “LORD, I give up.” Salvation is always about the attitude of the heart not saying the right words.

Verse 20 does not apply only to salvation but any believer that has closed the door on JESUS. Believers become disappointed with GOD and JESUS and close the door. HE stands outside the door of all hearts and knocks. The knocking is not a light tap but a loud banging. HE does HIS best to get our attention.

If JESUS has been knocking on the door of your heart, open the door and let HIM come in. HE will come in and meet with you each day and teach you of Himself. Talk to HIM and tell HIM what is on your mind.

Living 3:16 - Alive With Power - Ephesians 1 - March 23, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – Living 3:16 – Alive With Power – March 23, 2008

This is lesson four (4) in our series of study.

Our scripture is Ephesians 1:18-21; 2:4-9; 3:16-21.

The Apostle Paul was writing to the Christians in Ephesus.

Paul’s letter to the Christians in Ephesus is rich with spiritual revelation.

GOD reveals through the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 1:4 the fact that GOD knew each person before HE created the world. That means HE knew you and me. Every human who ever has been or ever will be, GOD knew before HE created the world. Each one of us is no accident and GOD has a plan for every person. People must keep in mind that it is their decision whether or not they will be obedient and accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR when GOD calls them to salvation. Then each believer decides whether or not to yield their lives to GOD and grow and mature in HIM.

In Ephesians 1:3-6:

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,[2] Eph 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ; 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love 5 He predestined[6] Ac 4:28; Rm 8:29–30; 1 Co 2:7; Eph 1:11 us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, 6 to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved.

What an awesome thought. GOD truly loves us.

Let’s read Ephesians 1:18-21:

18 [I pray]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the glorious riches of His inheritance among the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength.
God’s Power in Christ
20 He demonstrated [this power]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. in the Messiah by raising Him from the dead and seating Him at His right hand in the heavens[15] Eph 1:3; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 — 21 far above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given,[16] Lit every name named not only in this age but also in the one to come.

To me it is awesome to think that the special meeting place between each person and GOD is in the eyes of his or her heart. It is in the eyes of our hearts that GOD reveals Himself, truth, understanding, confirms our salvation and much more.

Look at verses nineteen (19) and twenty (20). Do you realize that when we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our hearts, in that instant we are born-again in our spirit and many things take place. All believers receive the power within them through the indwelling Holy Spirit. This is the same power that GOD used to raise JESUS from the dead and to raise HIM up to sit at the right–hand of GOD, HIS FATHER.

As I prepared this lesson the LORD revealed this to me:

All believers have this same awesome power within them that raised JESUS from the dead. GOD gave Moses the power to use the rod to bring about the many plagues that led Pharaoh to let the Israelites go from Egypt. GOD had used HIS power through Moses and the rod to perform mighty miracles as the Israelites were on their journey from Egypt to the land GOD had promised them.

I believe Moses had great confidence in the use of the rod to bring about what ever GOD said.
Exodus 7:20 - 20 Moses and Aaron did just as the Lord had commanded; in the sight of Pharaoh and his officials, he raised the staff and struck the water in the Nile, and all the water in the Nile was turned to blood. 21 The fish in the Nile died, and the river smelled so bad the Egyptians could not drink water from it. There was blood throughout the land of Egypt.

In Exodus 17:5-7 GOD instructed Moses to use the rod to strike the rock for water. 5 The Lord answered Moses, “Go on ahead of the people and take some of the elders of Israel with you. Take the rod you struck the Nile with in your hand and go. 6 I am going to stand there in front of you on the rock at Horeb; when you hit the rock, water will come out of it and the people will drink.” Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel. 7 He named the place Massah[1] = testing and Meribah[2] = arguing because the Israelites complained, and because they tested the Lord, saying, “Is the Lord among us or not?”

Then GOD wanted to increase Moses faith by showing Moses that all he had to do was speak and things would happen. Numbers 20 gives us this event in the life of Moses.

Numbers 20:1-13:
Water from the Rock
1 The entire Israelite community entered the Wilderness of Zin in the first month, and they[1] Lit the people settled in Kadesh. Miriam[2] Nm 12:1; 26:59; Ex 15:20–21; Dt 24:9 died and was buried there. 2 There was no water for the community, so they assembled against Moses and Aaron. 3 The people quarreled with Moses and said, “If only we had perished when our brothers perished before the Lord.[3] Nm 16:31–35,41–50 4 Why have you brought the Lord’s assembly into this wilderness for us and our livestock to die here? 5 Why have you led us up from Egypt to bring us to this evil place? It’s not a place of grain, figs, vines, and pomegranates,[4] Nm 13:23–27; Ex 13:5; Dt 8:8 and there is no water to drink!” 6 Then Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly to the doorway of the tent of meeting. They fell down with their faces [to the ground]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , and the glory of the Lord appeared to them. 7 The Lord spoke to Moses, 8 “Take the staff[5] Nm 17:8; Ex 4:2–5; 17:4–9 and assemble the community. You and your brother Aaron are to speak to the rock while they watch, and it will yield its water. You will bring out water for them from the rock and provide drink for the community and their livestock.” 9 So Moses took the staff from the Lord’s presence[6] Nm 17:10 just as He had commanded him. 10 Moses and Aaron summoned the assembly in front of the rock, and Moses said to them, “Listen, you rebels! Must we bring water out of this rock for you?” 11 Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with his staff, so that a great amount of water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.[7] Ex 17:6; Ps 78:15; 1 Co 10:4 12 But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust Me to show My holiness in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.”[8] Nm 27:12–14 13 These are the waters of Meribah,[9] = quarreling [10] Nm 27:14; Ex 17:7; Dt 32:51; Ps 95:8; 106:32 where the Israelites quarreled with the Lord, and He showed His holiness to them.

Moses disobeyed GOD and it cost him the opportunity of experiencing a more mature relationship with GOD and going into the Promised Land. Why?

GOD wanted Moses to grow and mature to experience a more in-depth relationship. GOD wanted Moses to see that HIS power was not in the rod but in GOD and this power was available to Moses because of the relationship. GOD wanted Moses to see that through an obedient relationship, all Moses had to do was speak as GOD instructed him and miracles would take place.

Keep in mind that this same awesome power is in each believer. So why do we not see this power manifested in and through our lives? I think it is a matter of lack of growth and maturity. GOD will never give HIS children something that will harm them. Yes, every believer has the power within but many of us have not grown or matured spiritually to see this power manifested in our lives. What does it take? Do you remember the lessons last year beginning with the Beatitudes? The Beatitudes are GOD’S characteristics of an ideal disciple. Then each lesson after that series helped us to examine ourselves and how we look at others. It boils down to our relationship with our LORD and the things we, as believers, harbor in our hearts.

We have the same power in us as GOD used to raise JESUS from the dead and seated HIM at HIS right-hand.

GOD often allows us to experience baby steps and as we grow and mature HE allows us to experience more of HIS power. But often we become comfortable at the stage of growth and maturity we have experienced and we think we have experienced all there is. As we yield our lives to GOD all believers need to keep in mind that HIS power is limitless.

Spiritual growth and maturity is a process called sanctification. Our flesh wants to rule our bodies and fights our spiritual growth and maturity. Allowing the Holy Spirit to search our hearts to reveal the things that prevent us from having the most intimate relationship with our LORD is part of the sanctification process. Spending time with HIM through HIS Word and talking to HIM in prayer is the beginning. As we build the relationship the Holy Spirit helps us to bring the flesh under HIS control and HIS authority.

Let’s read Ephesians 2:4-9:

4 But God, who is abundant in mercy, because of His great love that He had for us,[3] Lit love with which He loved us 5 made us alive with the • Messiah even though we were dead in trespasses. By grace you are saved! 6 He also raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavens,[4] Eph 1:3,20; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages He might display the immeasurable riches of His grace in [His]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace[5] Rm 3:24; 6:14; 11:6; Gl 2:21; 2 Tm 1:9 you are saved through faith,[6] Rm 3:28; 5:1 and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— 9 not from works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are His creation—created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.

Now look at what happens when we receive CHRIST as our SAVIOR!

We were dead to the voice of GOD. We could not respond because we were dead. A dead person cannot respond to anything. Only GOD has the power to call a dead sinner to salvation. HE calls to every person in the most secret place the eyes of his or her heart. All people have a choice to make – (1) Accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR (2) Reject CHRIST as their SAVIOR. There is no third choice.

When a person accepts CHRIST as his or her SAVIOR, look what happens!!!! At that moment, the new believer is raised from the dead by GOD’S power, born into GOD’S family and is transported to heaven. This is all the gift of GOD and nothing any human can do to earn it or work for it. It is “GRACE.” Grace is unmerited favor. Grace is something that is impossible to earn. It is GOD’S free gift to every believer and is secured by making every believer HIS child and placing him or her in HIS care in heaven. In essence every believer is already in heaven but GOD leaves believers on earth to carry out HIS plan. That is why HE wants all believers to be obedient to HIM and serve HIM. This is why every believer must seek an intimate relationship with HIM. Through our relationship with GOD, HE equips all believers and instructs all believers to do HIS work. Through the relationship, we as believers do not waste time and effort by pursuing our own work in an effort to please GOD.

Let’s read Ephesians 3:16-21:

16 [I pray]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that He may grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 and that the Messiah may dwell in your hearts through faith. [I pray that]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. you, being rooted and firmly established in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the length and width, height and depth [of God’s love]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , 19 and to know the Messiah’s love that surpasses knowledge, so you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think—according to the power that works in you— 21 to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. • Amen.

As in our previous lesson, it comes back to knowing and understanding the love of GOD and CHRIST for the people of earth. While we were sinners CHRIST died for us.

John 3:16-18 says it all:

16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 1 Jn 4:9–10 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God.

GOD so loved you, me and all people of the earth that HE gave HIS SON. When we as believers can comprehend the love GOD had for us and others, then we can begin to serve HIM and seek the fullness of CHRIST in us through an intimate relationship with HIM.

So you citizens of heaven, HAPPY EASTER!!! HE HAS RISEN and because HE lives so will all who believe in HIM!!!

Living 3:16 - It's All About Love - March 16, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – Living 3:16 – It’s All About Love – March 16, 2008

This is lesson three (3) in our series of study.

Our scripture is John 3:16, 1 John 3:16-20; 4:15-18; 5:2-5.

The Greek language had three (3) definitions for the word love:
- Agape – Self-giving love. This is a love that does not demand anything in return. This is the love GOD and CHRIST have for all mankind. The love a parent has for a child or many married couples have for each other. This type of love comes from being committed to each other and working through the many situations and circumstances that life throws at us.
- Philia – is brotherly love and carries the idea of commitment. It includes the emotional or personal attachment characteristic. Unfortunately many married couples stop at this level of love and never experience agape love in their marriage.
- Eros is erotic love. Our world seems to embrace erotic love, which pleases the flesh and has no depth to it at all. It is for the moment.

When we say I love you, it can mean many different things. Often, when a guy tells a girl that he loves her, in her mind it is at least philia and at best agape. But girls be very careful. Often in a guy’s mind he is saying, I Eros you and when I have my way with you I am through with you. Please do not let a hot moment ruin your life.

Let’s read John 3:16:

16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 1 Jn 4:9–10

John 3:16 is the ultimate love verse. These words were spoken by JESUS and recorded by the Apostle John. GOD, JESUS’ FATHER loved all mankind in such a way that HE allowed HIS ONLY SON to leave heaven and come to earth to live as a human, be tempted in all ways as every human is tempted, yet have to remain sinless, to die for the sins of all mankind. JESUS willingly came to earth knowing all of this because of HIS love of the FATHER and all mankind. CHRIST willingly gave HIS life that all who believe in HIM will be saved from the consequences of their sin and death. Every human who will accept this great gift and sacrifice through faith will be given the gift of eternal life. It is faith that makes each believer righteous in the sight of GOD. When we are righteous we can approach GOD. This is simply the miracle of rebirth. Every believer becomes a child of GOD through faith.

The Apostle Paul puts it in such a beautiful way in 2 Corinthians 5:21: 21 He made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

It is very difficult for us as humans to comprehend the ultimate love of GOD. Salvation is so simple. We cannot earn it. All any human has to do is believe. We think there must be something else we must do. Can we really trust this simple act to get us to heaven? YES!!! This simple act cost GOD’S SON HIS LIFE!

When we begin to comprehend GOD’S love then our obedience to HIM becomes easy and we see why we need to build a relationship with HIM.

Let’s read 1 John 3:16-20:

16 This is how we have come to know love: He laid down His life for us. We should also lay down our lives for our brothers. 17 If anyone has this world’s goods and sees his brother in need but shuts off his compassion from him—how can God’s love reside in him? 18 Little children, we must not love in word or speech, but in deed and truth; 19 that is how we will know we are of the truth, and will convince our hearts in His presence, 20 because if our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts and knows all things.

The writer of First, Second and Third John is the same John that wrote John and Revelation. It is the Apostle John. He wrote John first because he repeats some of the same things in his other writings.

JESUS is our example for showing perfect love. HE laid down HIS life for the sins of all mankind therefore all believers should lay down their lives or yield their wills to GOD to serve HIM as HE directs believers to minister to others. Believers should not hold anything back because CHRIST made the ultimate sacrifice for each believer. GOD did not make humans for time but for eternity.

Once we see and comprehend HIS love for us then HE wants us to put into action what we have received. John uses a term of endearment or speaking as a shepherd to his sheep by referring to his readers as “little children.” Putting our faith into action confirms in our own hearts that we are children of GOD. The HOLY SPIRIT also confirms the fact that we are GOD’S children as well in Romans 8:16: 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children,

Let’s read 1 John 4:15-18:

14 And we have seen and we testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world. 15 Whoever confesses[8] Or acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God—God remains in him and he in God. 16 And we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him. 17 In this, love is perfected with us so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; for we are as He is in this world. 18 There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment.[9] Or fear has its own punishment or torment So the one who fears has not reached perfection in love.

The Apostle John reminds his readers that the Apostles witnessed the life, death, resurrection, ascension and return of the HOLY SPIRIT. Confessing that JESUS is the Son of GOD equals salvation and GOD is in every believer that confesses CHRIST.

Often believers have to be reminded of the fact they have been born-again. Earlier we discussed the simplicity of salvation. As a believers get closer to knowing and serving our LORD through obedience and building more intimate relationships with HIM, they also see how sinful they were and are. One may question how can such a righteous GOD forgive me of all I have done? That is a tool Satan uses to shift our focus away from the love of GOD. If we have sinned then we need to confess our sin. Otherwise we need to focus on the simplicity of the gospel. CHRIST in you makes you a Christian.

Do you fear that you will miss heaven? Have you asked CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your heart? If the answer is yes, then you have been born-again and have eternal life.

Seek the relationship with HIM and the more you get to know HIM the more you will love HIM and be filled with HIS love to reach out to others.

John recorded the words of JESUS in John 5:24: 24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

JESUS assures every believer that simple faith results in salvation and eternal life.

Let’s read 1 John 5:2-5:

2 This is how we know that we love God’s children when we love God and obey[1] Other mss read keep His commands. 3 For this is what love for God is: to keep His commands. Now His commands are not a burden, 4 because whatever has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith. 5 And who is the one who conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

Another way to know you are growing and maturing in CHRIST is reflected in your love for GOD and your desire to be obedient to HIM. Again, we come back to our relationship with HIM. We cannot in our own strength or human effort build this type of love. We must come to HIM as we are and ask HIM to help us to get to know HIM more each day. We read and study HIS Word. As we get to know HIM, HE will give us opportunities to serve HIM. As we serve HIM and learn that we can trust HIM, it builds our confidence in HIM. We learn to walk with HIM and respond to HIS command without hesitation. For most of us this is a process. I know it has been a process for me and my journey with HIM.

I wanted to do it my way and I had to run into a few brick walls before I learned to wait upon HIM. HE will let us run on our own just to see what the end result will be. But keep in mind that HE loves us and has nothing but the best for us in mind.

HIS commands are not a burden. In my opinion this can happen only when we have the relationship with HIM because HE is carrying the load. It is HIS power that moves the mountains. Most often we run out and start digging with our shovel and HE lets us dig until we turn to HIM.

Faith is the power. JESUS put it best. It only takes faith the size of a mustard seed. It is our faith in GOD that all things are possible. We as humans try to do it ourselves and it is a burden. Let HIM carry the burden. Trust HIM, knowing that HE loves you so much that JESUS gave HIS life for you. If you had been the only person in all eternity to accept JESUS as your SAVIOR, then JESUS would have died just for you. That is personal. That is why we must come to HIM as an individual.

As we approach Easter, there is no better time to accept JESUS as your SAVIOR or to rededicate your life to HIM. HE loves you with infinite love.

Living 3:16 - Where GOD is at Home - 1 Corinthians 3:9-17; 6:12-20 - March 9, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – Living 3:16 – Where GOD is at Home – March 9, 2008

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study.

Our scripture is 1 Corinthians 3:9-17; 6:12-13, 18-20.

The Apostle Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth. Corinth is a melting pot of all sorts of religions and is predominately made up of Gentiles. Paul writes his first letter to deal with a variety of issues which includes foods offered to idols, sexual practices, gifts of the Spirit, love to name a few.

Our scripture today deals with building upon the foundation of CHRIST, our solid rock as co-workers with GOD and the responsibility that comes with being HIS representative.

Let’s read 1 Corinthians 3:9-11:

9 For we are God’s co-workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. 10 According to God’s grace that was given to me, as a skilled master builder I have laid a foundation, and another builds on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it, 11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ.

Paul defined the church in three (3) ways:

GOD’S Co-workers – the living church.

Each believer is considered a co-worker according to GOD’S plan and purpose. Each believer needs to be in relationship with GOD for GOD to reveal to him or her HIS work so they can join HIM in HIS work.

GOD’S Field – the ministry GOD has revealed to the living church.

GOD’S Building – the living stones or believers that form the true church not the brick and mortar building.

Each description emphasizes that all believers belong to GOD and HE is the authority in charge. Believers are to obey HIS commands and seek HIS direction and not seek their own direction. This is why having a loving, intimate relationship with GOD is vital for each believer. GOD reveals HIS work to us, as believers.

Most often believers run off to do something to serve GOD. The believers want to serve by doing, so they decide what they will do. Then they end up feeling empty and feel as if they have fallen short. It is vital for believers to seek what GOD is doing and when HE reveals HIS work to them that is their invitation to join HIM in that work. But first HIS desire is for every believer to seek HIM, to get to know HIM and build the relationship with HIM.

The church at Corinth was made up of a diversity of believers. Many came from pagan backgrounds. The Apostle Paul wanted to make sure each believer was on a firm foundation and that foundation is CHRIST in you, period. Once we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our lives that is the rock solid foundation of salvation. Upon that foundation each believer builds using a variety of materials. Notice I said “rock solid” foundation of CHRIST. In Matthew JESUS compared a wise man to a foolish man depending upon the foundation the man chose to build his house.

Matthew 7: 24-27:

24 "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 "and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 "But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 "and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall."

Every believer builds upon the foundation of CHRIST. The materials used will depend upon what will survive the final judgment. When a believer builds, a wise believer will seek to build the relationship first and then ask GOD to direct their service of obedience.

Let’s read 1 Corinthians 3:12-17:

12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] The Day of Christ’s judgment of believers will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5] Lit yet so as through fire 16 Don’t you know that you are God’s sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 If anyone ruins God’s sanctuary, God will ruin him; for God’s sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are.

Notice the building materials are gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw. Then in the final judgment each believer’s work will be tested by fire. We know that wood, hay and straw will be consumed in the fire, whereas gold, silver and costly stones will survive the fire. If anything survives the fire that will be the believer’s reward. If all is consumed, the believer will be spared. They will be in heaven. A believer never looses his or her salvation but a believer can be stubborn, and serve GOD as he or she chooses, and uses the wrong building materials. This is why our relationship with CHRIST is so vital. The purpose is not to get the reward but to serve GOD effectively by doing what HE wants us to do. HE has a plan for each one of us and we must be obedient to HIM to participate in HIS plan and purpose for our lives.
Many years ago I heard a layman explain each of these materials. He had done a word study for each material and this is what I recall: (I will give a modified version.)

Wood – Wood represents the good deeds we do in life.
Hay – Hay represents money.
Straw – Straw represents what is left over after the hay is cut.

All of these (wood, hay and straw) materials will be burned up when tested by fire. A person does not have to be a believer to do good deeds, give money, build churches and build buildings to be used for good purposes. Straw represents what is left over and represents the things we do out of obligation. Our heart is not in it but we do them just to do something. Don’t feel helpless, unless you are a non-believer, because it all comes together for a believer.

Gold – Gold represents the reflection of CHRIST in the lives of believers. A believer may do good deeds or use his or her money to build buildings but one’s reward is to the degree that one reflects CHRIST in whatever one is doing. Most often believers will never know they are reflecting CHRIST and the heavenly cash register is ringing up. It will be a surprise when all appears to be burned up and all of a sudden as a believer sifts through the ashes you will hear a shout, “I think I see something that looks like a glob of metal. Could it be something of value?”

Silver – Silver is salvation. It is your own salvation but also the salvation of others. Believers may give their testimonies or speak words to people seeking either salvation or a closer walk with our LORD that results in them either being saved or walking closer with our LORD. Those believers have just earned a silver reward. They will likely never know they have earned silver rewards until that final day in heaven when it is revealed after the fire.

Costly Stones – Costly stones represent our knowledge of GOD and CHRIST. This is something every believer can do by reading and studying GOD’S Word and seeking to build a relationship with HIM.

JESUS tells us that something as small as a cup of cold water will not go unnoticed by GOD. Being obedient is never about the size of what we do but about our obedience to serve our LORD.

Paul reminds each believer that he or she is GOD’S sanctuary. Before CHRIST, the temple or sanctuary represented the presence of GOD. Strict rules governed the priest going into the Holy of Holies in the presence of GOD. But when CHRIST died upon the cross for the sins of all mankind, the veil that separated the Holy of Holies from the people was torn from top to bottom. CHRIST’S death paid the price for our sins and gave every believer open access to GOD our FATHER. All believers can go into the very throne room of GOD and in essence climb up into HIS lap and call HIM Daddy. WOW!!! What a gift. All believers are sanctuaries and every place they place their feet becomes Holy ground. The HOLY SPIRIT indwells every believer. What a heritage!!! GOD is our FATHER through the miracle of rebirth.

Let’s read 1 Corinthians 6:12-13, 18-20:

12 “Everything is permissible for me,”[3] The words in quotation marks are most likely slogans used by some Corinthian Christians. Paul evaluates and corrects these slogans. but not everything is helpful. “Everything is permissible for me,”[4] The words in quotation marks are most likely slogans used by some Corinthian Christians. Paul evaluates and corrects these slogans. but I will not be brought under the control of anything. 13 “Foods for the stomach and the stomach for foods,”[5] The words in quotation marks are most likely slogans used by some Corinthian Christians. Paul evaluates and corrects these slogans. but God will do away with both of them.[6] Lit both it and them The body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.

18 Flee from sexual immorality! “Every sin a person can commit is outside the body,”[8] See note at 1 Co 6:12 but the person who is sexually immoral sins against his own body. 19 Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body.[9] Other mss add and in your spirit, which belong to God.

Paul reminds the Corinthians and us that as born-again believers we will never loose our salvation. That does not give us the right to do as we please. Since there was such diversity among believers some had notions about certain foods that they could or could not eat. Paul tells them to keep things in proper perspective. Food is one thing but sexual immorality is another. Some of the Corinthians came from pagan backgrounds where there were temple prostitutes in the pagan temples. Paul teaches about the importance of remaining sexually pure. Sex is GOD’S gift to a man and woman married to each other. The sexual union between a man and woman makes them one flesh and also joins the HOLY SPIRIT to them as well. Therefore a believer is not to join himself or herself to an unbeliever or prostitute because the believer is joining GOD to something unholy.

Paul makes this clear in 1 Corinthians 6:15-16:

15 Do you not know that your bodies are the members of Christ? So should I take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Absolutely not! 16 Do you not know that anyone joined to a prostitute is one body with her? For it says, The two will become one flesh.[7] Gn 2:24 17 But anyone joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him.

We began our lesson with scripture showing that GOD owns every believer and the living church. All believers are part of the living church and have been bought with a price because it cost the life of HIS SON to redeem us from sin and death. GOD through the HOLY SPIRIT indwells every believer therefore every believer represents HIM. Every believer is always to keep that fact in mind. As Christians, we cannot always be what HE wants us to be 24/7 in our own strength. That is why we must have the relationship to even begin to live, as GOD wants us to live for HIM and to be made in the image of HIS SON.

Living 3:16 - By the Book - 2 Timothy - March 2, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – Living 3:16 – By The Book – March 2, 2008

We begin a new series of study entitled Living 3:16 in a 9/11 World.” The series selects different 3:16 verses to teach a critical truth.

March 2 – 2 Timothy 3:16 reveals how the Bible can help us to live in a world with many different fears.

March 9 – 1 Corinthians 3:16 calls believers to live in purity.

March 16 – John 3:16 and 1 John 3:16 helps us to understand the nature of GOD’S love and how believers can show love for others.

March 23 – Ephesians 3:16 examines the power that is available to believers through CHRIST.

March 30 – Revelation 3:16 reminds believers why we should be passionate about knowing and following CHRIST.

The Apostle Paul wrote this to his protégé Timothy. Paul is in prison and his time upon this earth is drawing short. Paul is preparing Timothy to carry on with the gospel message regardless of what happens to him. Paul sees difficult times coming for those who present the gospel.

From a human point-of-view, many of us hold faithful servants of GOD in high esteem such as Billy Graham. We tend to forget they are human just like us. Sometimes we think that GOD will not allow anything bad happen to them. Paul knows that he has nurtured young Timothy and young Timothy has witnessed many powerful demonstrations of the presence of GOD through Paul’s ministry. Timothy could get the idea that Paul is superhuman. Paul is preparing young Timothy not to be disappointed in GOD when something bad happens to Paul. Paul is reinforcing and reconfirming his faith and confidence in his LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST to Timothy regardless of what happens to him (Paul)
.
Bad things happen to good people and when they do GOD is no less of a power because bad things have happened.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 1:8-12:

8 So don’t be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, or of me His prisoner. Instead, share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God, 9 who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. 10 This has now been made evident through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 For this [gospel]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. I was appointed a herald, apostle, and teacher,[2] Other mss add of the Gentiles 12 and that is why I suffer these things. But I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to guard what has been entrusted to me[3] Or guard what I have entrusted to Him, or guard my deposit until that day.

Paul told Timothy to never be ashamed of the gospel. If something bad happened to Paul do not think for a moment that GOD is any less powerful.

Paul told Timothy to never forget his calling to share the gospel. Paul reminded Timothy that GOD called them and they did not do anything to earn that calling. GOD called them before time began.

Ephesians 1:4:

4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5]

Doesn’t that just blow your mind? GOD has a plan for every human. Whether or not we participate in HIS plan depends upon us. It is our decision whether or not to serve HIM. First every human has the opportunity to accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR by asking CHRIST to forgive him or her of his or her sins and to ask CHRIST to come into his or her lives. This is a personal choice and requires a decision by each person. Once a person becomes a believer, even then, it is his or her choice as to how much of his or her will, will be released to GOD. GOD wants us to hold nothing back but to place our lives into HIS hands fully trusting HIM to lead, direct and control our lives. Yielding our will to HIM is required if we want to build an intimate, loving relationship with HIM.

When we serve our LORD, HE makes it clear that it will not be easy. Paul reminds Timothy that suffering is part of serving. Paul is not ashamed that he has suffered and because he has suffered does not mean that he is not in favor with GOD. Paul has full and complete confidence that GOD will sustain him until he is fully redeemed at judgment day.

We all may have the same questions. I know before becoming a Christian I wanted to know, “How can you be sure there is life after death?” Before becoming a Christian it is impossible for a person to know for sure. Salvation and faith are not subject to analysis. Once a believer has experienced salvation through faith he or she can tell of his or her experience through his or her testimony about the experience. Once we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our lives, we receive the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. The HOLY SPIRT confirms within each believer that we are GOD’S children and that we are secure in HIM. The HOLY SPIRIT is our guarantee and security deposit that what we believe is true.

Let’s read 2 Timothy 3:14-17:

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing those from whom you learned, 15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God[2] Lit breathed out by God; the Scripture is the product of God’s Spirit working through men; see 2 Pt 1:20–21. and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Timothy had a GOD-fearing mother and grandmother who had taught him the scriptures from childhood.

2 Timothy 1:5:

5 clearly recalling your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois, then in your mother Eunice, and that I am convinced is in you also.

All scripture is GOD-breathed. Believers must keep in mind when bad times come into their lives, always go to the scriptures because they are your anchor in turbulent times.

All scripture came straight from GOD to faithful men and since they are from the living GOD, they are as relevant today as the day they were recorded. The HOLY SPIRIT reveals the truth in the scriptures to us today and how they apply to our lives, situations and circumstances.

Verses 16 – 17 - All Scripture is inspired by God[2] Lit breathed out by God; the Scripture is the product of God’s Spirit working through men; see 2 Pt 1:20–21. and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

All scripture comes from GOD – that is why it is so critical for all believers to study it. Do you want to hear what GOD has to say? Then read the scripture. Since the scriptures are the living word, they are always relevant to the present time they are read.

Since all scripture comes from GOD it is powerful and profitable for:
- Teaching
- Rebuking (Revealing ones wrong doing or to reveal to a believer that he or she has gotten off the right track as a dedicated committed Christian.)
- Correcting (Once the rebuked believer sees the error of his or her way and has gotten off the track, then the scripture shows them how to get back on track.)
- Training (Keeping a person on track. And to those who have gotten off the track (rebuked) and been corrected, which places them back on the track, then the scriptures train them to stay on track.)

The end result is a believer fully equipped to be of valuable service to our LORD. We all get into the weeds. It is a fact of life and GOD knows that. HE does not want us to stay in the weeds. First we must know that we are in the weeds. The scripture will reveal to us that we are in the weeds. Once we know we are in the weeds we need to know how to get out of the weeds. Studying the scriptures will show us how to get out of the weeds. The scripture will do its work and if we are willing we will be restored to useful service for our LORD.

Are you in the weeds? Or you have been in the weeds but feel unworthy to service our LORD. Then you do not know the love of GOD that passes all understanding. Do not let Satan keep you in the weeds or feeling unworthy because you have been in the weeds. But confess your wrongdoing and ask GOD to reveal to you through HIS Word how you can be restored to serve HIM joyfully. HE never turns HIS back on us. HE stands ready to reach out to us just as Peter wanted to walk on the water to meet JESUS, but he began to sink. JESUS reached out and saved him. HE will do the same for you. Trust HIM and ask HIM to restore you and the joy of your salvation!!!

Let’s read 2 Timothy 4:1-5:

1 Before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom, I solemnly charge you: 2 proclaim the message; persist in it whether convenient or not; rebuke, correct, and encourage with great patience and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will accumulate teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear something new.[1] Or to hear what they want to hear; lit themselves, itching in the hearing 4 They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths. 5 But as for you, keep a clear head about everything, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

Paul tells Timothy in essence, “As GOD and JESUS are my witnesses I admonish you to proclaim the message (Gospel of CHRIST) and persist in proclaiming the message regardless of the circumstances. Do not shy away from teaching, rebuking, correcting or encouraging believers. Do not slack off because the window of opportunity is now for presenting the truth of the gospel. There is a time coming when people will want to hear a message that sounds and feels good. People will want a watered down gospel. They will turn to myths. So now is your opportunity to drive home the true message of salvation through CHRIST.

Make sure that you do not get caught up in compromise. Keep focused on the truth. Keep in mind that bad times will come but always know that the scriptures are your anchor and are the anvil that tests and reveals false doctrine. Stay focused on the scriptures and compare all things to what the scriptures say about any subject, particularly sound doctrine. GOD and JESUS will be your judge. Keep in mind that JESUS has come in the flesh and dwelt among us. HE was crucified on the cross for the sins of mankind. HE conquered death as confirmed by HIS resurrection. HE ascended into heaven and sat at the right hand of the FATHER. HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to earth to indwell every believer so they will know the truth, be secure in their salvation and have the power to live the abundant Christian life.”

His grandmother, his mother and Paul had taught Timothy sound doctrine. Even though we have been taught sound doctrine we always need to be on our guard that compromise not find its way into our lives. Studying the Bible will help keep our minds focused on the truth. The HOLY SPIRIT will sound alarms when we encounter false doctrine. We must pay attention. If we compromise just a little then before we know it we will be embracing false doctrine by our presence and silence.

We are living in times where we face compromise. Our children and grandchildren will face it even more. We must teach sound doctrine to our children and grandchildren. We must keep in mind that GOD hates sin but loves the sinner. What does the Bible have to say about a subject or a lifestyle? Study GOD’S Word and be guided by it.