Bible Study - Productive (5) - Work Your Plan - 2 Corinthians 9:6-13 - March 30, 2014

Bible Study – Productive (5) – Work Your Plan – March 30, 2014

This is lesson five (5) in our series entitled “Productive: Finding Joy in What We Do.”

Our focus scripture is 2 Corinthians 9:6-13.

Our generous giving should glorify GOD and reflect CHRIST’S willful giving of HIS life, through the shedding of HIS blood to pay for the penalty of sin. When those who have been redeemed by HIS shed blood recognize, acknowledge and understand that CHRIST did for them what they cannot do for themselves, it results in grateful hearts.

Work provides the opportunity for Christians and non-Christians alike to have the means to sustain themselves and to give too others. Our focus has been upon Christian giving. Christians give to those in need and to spread the Gospel of CHRIST.

Christians generally give to support financially and physically, the organizations and institutions that spread the Good News of JESUS CHRIST and reach out to others in need. In turn, those organizations generally provide the infrastructure to teach, train, equip and provide the opportunity for Christians to go into the world to share CHRIST with others. JESUS commanded Christians to go into the world. The world is where any Christian is at any given moment. GOD issues specific calls to some Christians to obediently serve HIM in special ways but all Christians are called to obedient service.

Christians are the light of the world and the salt of the earth because they have the light of CHRIST in them. They contain the Good News of salvation through faith in CHRIST. They are assured that they serve their risen Savior which is confirmed and guaranteed by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Our focus for the past two lessons began with 2 Corinthians 8:1-9 where we considered the power for giving. Our scripture for last week’s study was 2 Corinthians 8:10-15 and 9:1-5 focused on the process of giving from the heart in proportion to our ability. This week’s lesson focuses on the Spiritual and physical results of giving as led by the Holy Spirit.

Faithful giving, as led by the Holy Spirit, not only benefits those in need but rekindles the joy in the hearts of those being obedient in their giving. It continues the building of the intimate and loving relationship with GOD through CHRIST which began the day of our salvation. GOD loves obedience and obedience honors GOD.  

This week’s lesson continues with the remaining portion of scripture from last week’s lesson, where Paul continued his message on the principle of giving as we read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15.

Give with the Right Attitude: 

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 9:6-7:

6 Remember this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each person should do as he has decided in his heart —not reluctantly or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.

As you recall from last week’s lesson, the Christians in Corinth had promised to provide a generous gift to support the needy Christians in Jerusalem. The Christians in Jerusalem were dealing with a famine and lack of jobs because they were Christians. Paul wanted the Christians in Corinth to finish their commitment to provide support to them.  

Christians cannot out give GOD. We often think of financial reward when we give as led by the Holy Spirit but that is mute compared to building the right relationship with HIM through obedient service.

In this scripture, Paul used a farming principle. Simply the more a person sows, the more he or she will harvest. The key is to pray about what you need to sow and how much. Once sowed, there are many factors which determine the harvest. Most results of a harvest are beyond the control of the sower and in the hands of GOD. The harvest provides means for the farmer, who in turn provides jobs and the opportunity to give to those in need. As the farmer obediently gives, GOD in turn blesses him or her materially and/or Spiritually. Walking with GOD is always a learning experience and does not always mean smooth sailing. But GOD walks with us and is in control.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Christians must keep in mind that GOD does not look at the quantity but the attitude of their hearts when they give and their obedience. JESUS said it best in Mark 12:41-44:

41 Sitting across from the temple treasury, He (JESUS) watched how the crowd dropped money into the treasury. Many rich people were putting in large sums. 42 And a poor widow came and dropped in two tiny coins worth very little. 43 Summoning His disciples, He said to them, “•I assure you: This poor widow has put in more than all those giving to the temple treasury. 44 For they all gave out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she possessed —all she had to live on.”

Giving from our financial resources is part of Christian giving but Christians are to give their time, abilities and Spiritual gifts as led by the Holy Spirit. They are the arms, legs and physical presence of CHRIST and GOD when they minister to others – fellow Christians or those in need, regardless of their relationship to CHRIST.

Christians are to minister as led by the Holy Spirit. Ministering to others can reveal CHRIST to those who do not know HIM as their Savior. Yes, there are those who know how to work the system. That is why Christians need the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Do you recall this occasion recorded in Acts 3:1-11:

1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; 3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked for alms. 4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. 5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. 6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. 7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God: 10 And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. 11 And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.

Think about this event. This man was alive, crippled since birth and sat for alms most likely when JESUS went into the temple during HIS earthly ministry. Yet, GOD did not lead JESUS to heal the man. JESUS was obedient to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. If you read further in this scripture, GOD had a purpose in JESUS waiting. GOD had a plan and purpose in the healing of this man because it ministered to so many others after the passion of CHRIST. Waiting upon the leadership of the Father through the leading of the Holy Spirit is challenging. Most of us have the nature such that when we see the need, we respond.

Christians have more to give than material resources.

Look at verse 7, “every person should do as he or she decides.” Once a person decides what and how much to give, the next step is action. A person’s action is NOT to be reluctant or out of necessity. Just giving for the sake of giving does not impress GOD. HE already owns it all and Christians are HIS stewards of a portion. GOD’S desire is for Christians to target their giving as HE directs.  

Rely on GOD’S Ability:

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 9:8-9:

8 And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work. 9 As it is written: He scattered; He gave to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.

When Christians give obediently, GOD makes every grace to overflow to them. Grace is unmerited favor. Grace cannot be earned but it is a free gift from GOD.

Verse 8 in the King James translation uses “always having all sufficiency in all things” where the Holman translation has “always having everything you need.” The word “sufficiency” carries the idea of “a mind contented with its lot. Contentment with what we have and our position in life is a blessing that can come only from our relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

When we are content, we do not have to have stuff just to have stuff. When we live content, we live on less so we can have more to give to others.

Contentment does not take away a Christian’s ambition, instead he or she lives according to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. When Christians are in the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST, they are in HIS perfect will. When a Christian is in the will of GOD, he or she has the peace that passes all understanding and trust GOD to meet his or her needs.

The Apostle Paul quotes from Psalm 112:9 in verse 9:

9 He (the righteous person) distributes freely to the poor; his righteousness endures forever. His • horn will be exalted in honor.

GOD is the example of Christians – HE scattered; HE gave to the poor; HIS righteousness endures forever. The righteous person’s heart is in harmony and relationship with GOD which governs his or her actions.

Received GOD’S Blessing:

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 9:10-11:

10 Now the One (GOD) who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.

GOD made the seeds which produce the product or fruit, which in turn provides substance for humans. If HE can do what mankind cannot do, then HE can multiply the harvest of the sower. A Christian’s part is to trust and obey. Obedient giving defies human logic when it is done according to GOD’S will and glorifies HIM.

Paul makes a beautiful correlation to GOD multiplying the physical harvest to increasing the harvest of righteousness. He used a statement from Hoses 10:12:

12 Sow righteousness for yourselves and reap faithful love; break up your unplowed ground. It is time to seek the Lord until He comes and sends righteousness on you like the rain.

As the Christians in Corinth used their physical resources to meet the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem, GOD increased the harvest of their righteousness. When Christians empty themselves of the things that cause them to hold back or compromise their trust in GOD, they make room for HIM to occupy more of them. They are becoming more like CHRIST which is GOD’S goal for every Christian. The major war that needs to be won in the lives of Christians is allowing the Holy Spirit to rule the flesh.  

Praise GOD:

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 9:12-15:

12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing in many acts of thanksgiving to God. 13 They will glorify God for your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with others through the proof provided by this service. 14 And they will have deep affection for you in their prayers on your behalf because of the surpassing grace of God in you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.

Paul addressed the benefits of finishing what a person has been called to accomplish. In this case, the Christians in Corinth were called and eagerly responded at first to collect gifts to meet the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem but they had failed to complete their goal. They needed to complete their commitment because the Christians in Jerusalem were depending upon their gifts. Plus accomplishing their goal would bring glory to GOD, JESUS and encourage others both Christians and non-Christians. The faithfulness of the Christians would be a positive witness to non-Christians. The Christians in Jerusalem will rejoice and be encouraged because GOD has ministered to them through fellow Christians in Corinth. Meeting the needs of others brings glory to GOD and hope to those in need. When needs are met by fellow Christians, the Spiritual body is functioning in unity with GOD.   

When we are facing difficult times, it is encouraging and brings hope to us when fellow Christians respond to our need. It is Spiritually uplifting and encouraging.  

It is tough to wait upon the leadership of the LORD.

Verse 15 puts into perspective the motivation for Christians to give.

GOD allowed HIS Only Son, JESUS, to come to earth to live and give HIS life for the redemption of those who will place their faith in HIM. HIS shed blood paid, in full, the debt every human owes as the result of sin and its consequence, eternal death. Salvation is a free gift no human can earn by his or her own effort or merit. When we consider the unspeakable gift of CHRIST, our gifts pale in comparison to HIS gift and the un-measureable blessings of GOD’S sustaining grace to those who place their faith in HIM and obediently serve HIM.  Blessings!!!

 

 

Bible Study - Productive (4) - Put Your Money to Work - 2 Corinthians 8:10-15; 9:1-5 - March 23, 2014

Bible Study – Productive (4) – Put Your Money to Work – March 23, 2014

This is lesson four (4) in our series entitled “Productive: Finding Joy in What We Do.”

Our focus scripture is 2 Corinthians 8:10-15; 9:1-5.

When pastors preach on giving in our churches, many in the congregations are turned off. If the pastor preaches a second message in less than a year on giving, then many in the congregation will say, “Money is all we hear from this preacher.”

In my opinion, when giving is a problem in a church, there is a Spiritual problem in that body of Christians.

When Christians are in right relationship with GOD through CHRIST, giving becomes a natural part of being a Christian. This raises some questions. Are the pastor, staff, Bible teachers and leaders of the church or religious organizations preaching and teaching in the power and under the authority of the Holy Spirit? Are we, as Christians being fed and growing Spiritually by attending that church or organization? Or are those attending these institutions Spiritually dead? It is vital that the pastor, staff, all leaders and teachers in a church or Christian organization be filled with the Holy Spirit, led by and obedient to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

Giving is all about our hearts and our relationship with CHRIST.

Let’s explore!

Finish What You Start.

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 8:10-12:

10 Now I am giving an opinion on this because it is profitable for you, who a year ago began not only to do something but also to desire it. 11 But now finish the task as well, that just as there was eagerness to desire it, so there may also be a completion from what you have.

Most of us hear of a need and have good intentions to meet that need but often we fizzle after our initial enthusiasm. This was the situation among the Christians in Corinth.  They had made an eager commitment, about a year earlier, to help the needy Christians in Jerusalem due to a famine.

The Apostle Paul was giving his opinion regarding their initial enthusiasm to spearhead an effort to help meet the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem. But after a year they had not completed their objective. Paul was telling them that they began with an eager desire to help but they had not fulfilled their objective. Now was the time for them to step up to the plate and finish what they started.

JESUS had a comment on such activity as recorded in Luke 9:62:

62 But Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”

GOD calls Christians to meet the needs of others. Often, the needs of others are greater than financial. Allow the Holy Spirit to help you define the needs of others and how to participate in meeting those needs.

Give in Proportion to Your Ability.

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 8:12-15:

12 For if the eagerness is there, it is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have. 13 It is not that there may be relief for others and hardship for you, but it is a question of equality— 14 at the present time your surplus is available for their need, so their abundance may also become available for our need, so there may be equality. 15 As it has been written: The person who gathered much did not have too much, and the person who gathered little did not have too little. [This relates back to GOD’S care of the Israelites in the wilderness on their journey to the Promised Land - Exodus 16:16-20 - Moses told them, “It is the bread the Lord has given you to eat. 16 This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Gather as much of it as each person needs to eat. You may take two quarts per individual, according to the number of people each of you has in his tent.’” 17 So the Israelites did this. Some gathered a lot, some a little. 18 When they measured it by quarts, the person who gathered a lot had no surplus, and the person who gathered a little had no shortage. Each gathered as much as he needed to eat. 19 Moses said to them, “No one is to let any of it remain until morning.” 20 But they didn’t listen to Moses; some people left part of it until morning, and it bred worms and smelled. Therefore Moses was angry with them.]

We can make a commitment to meet certain needs because of the hype of the moment. We need to pray and ask the LORD to lead us to what our role needs to be in meeting or participating in meeting the needs of others.

Paul made it clear that giving was not to be a burden. The Holy Spirit has to help us define the level of our giving and trust HIM to guide us and help to meet those needs and our commitment. We may be led by the Holy Spirit to give beyond what we think we are able to do or less than we would like too. GOD knows what lies ahead for each of us. GOD knows and it may be a time for testing us in good times or bad times. GOD is in control and provides.

GOD gives balance that is why when we give we need to give according to leading of the Holy Spirit. There are times when GOD leads us to give beyond our comfort zone. We need to discern whether or not a leading is from the Holy Spirit, our nature, attempting to please those around us, the emotion of the moment or truly from GOD.

Sometimes HE allows us to step off into an uncomfortable commitment for us to learn to discern or to build our trust in HIS capability. Walking by faith is stepping where there is no step.  

Paul continued in the next scripture to help us understand part of the giving principle. We will study the other part of the giving principal in next week’s lesson.

Give to Motivate Others.

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 9:1-5:

1 Now concerning the ministry to the • saints, it is unnecessary for me to write to you. 2 For I know your eagerness, and I brag about you to the Macedonians: “Achaia has been prepared since last year,” and your zeal has stirred up most of them. 3 But I sent the brothers so our boasting about you in the matter would not prove empty, and so you would be prepared just as I said. 4 For if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we, not to mention you, would be embarrassed in that situation. 5 Therefore I considered it necessary to urge the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance the generous gift you promised, so that it will be ready as a gift and not as extortion.

Macedonia was the province north of the province of Achaia. The major cities located in the province of Macedonia were Philippi, Thessalonica and Berea. The major city in the province Achaia was Corinth.

One reason the Christians in Macedonia were experiencing hard times was because they were being opposed by those who opposed the gospel. SO were the Christians in Jerusalem. The Jews controlled most of the jobs in Jerusalem and they would not hire the Christians, plus there was a famine in that area. That meant double trouble. The Macedonians could relate.

Paul wrote that, he knew their hearts and eagerness to meet the needs of those in need in Jerusalem and it was not necessary for him to write to them. But their enthusiasm had encouraged many others to join them in giving. Paul sent Titus and two others to Corinth just to prove that they were serious about raising gifts for the Christians in Jerusalem. After-all it would be very embarrassing if they didn’t have a generous gift collected.

Paul wanted the Christians in Corinth to have their gift ready before he arrived or else it might appear as extortion. Paul wanted their gift to come from their eagerness and heart’s desire to help Christians in Jerusalem. He did not want it to appear that they had raised the gift just because Paul was there.

Was Paul under pressure? I think so. The Christians in Corinth had indicated about a year earlier that they were eager to help but their eagerness had faded.  He used the generosity of the Christians in Macedonia in an effort to rekindle the zeal of Christians in Corinth to complete what they had started.

There are times when we need a nudge to complete what we have committed to. Giving is personal and much is recorded in the Bible regarding giving such as:

Matthew 6:3-4:

 3 But when you give to the poor, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Luke 6:38:

38 Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over—will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”

I recall in my early years of walking with the LORD, I loved to hear testimonies about fellow Christians walking in faith and GOD providing. I wanted to experience this, so I would have an amazing testimony to tell about GOD providing. You get the picture, my ego blurred my Spiritual vision but it resulted in a teaching. Accepting CHRIST by faith is one thing. Living by faith after salvation is a gift of the Holy Spirit. When Christians have the gift of faith, GOD provides as HE leads them. But testing GOD can lead to a difficult journey from which you will learn. GOD allows HIS children to go in their own strength to learn a lesson.   

Giving is about our hearts and our relationship with GOD through CHRIST. When we give, is it the result of the zeal in our hearts coming from the leadership of the Holy Spirit, the result of a mandate, peer pressure or the obligation to give? Blessings!!!

 

 

 

 

Bible Study - Productive (3) - What We Work For - 2 Corinthians 8:1-9 - March 16, 2014

Bible Study - Productive (3) – What We Work For – March 16, 2014

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Productive: Finding Joy in What We Do.”

Our focus scripture is 2 Corinthians 8:1-9.

Let’s begin by considering 1 Corinthians 7:23:

23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.  

Work is a gift, we work for CHRIST and we work not only to sustain ourselves and those for whom we are responsible but to share with others in need.

The foundation for giving, as Christians, is the realization that CHRIST did for us what no other person could do. HE died in place of all who will place their faith in HIM. HE gave up HIS home in heaven and left HIS Glory in heaven to be born into a body of flesh. CHRIST was GOD, yet HE chose to limit Himself to human experiences. HE could have not completed HIS mission but if HE had opted out, we would still be under the law. HE was tempted in all ways as humans are tempted, yet without sin. We have a Savior who knows what it is like to live as a human. HE understands.

HE came to earth to live and give HIS life to pay the debt for sin, thus those who place their faith in CHRIST have been bought with a price. It cost JESUS HIS life. CHRIST was the perfect sacrificial Lamb “the only Son of GOD” Who willingly gave HIS life by shedding HIS blood to pay the debt for sin. When HE gave HIS life to pay the price for sin, in full, it meant that all who place their faith in HIM receive forgiveness for their sins and are given eternal life through the miracle of rebirth into GOD’S family and the Kingdom of GOD.

How do we know that HE really paid the price for sin in full? It is because GOD resurrected HIM from the dead and because HE lives, so do all who place their faith in HIM live eternally. When a Christian leaves this earth he or she is immediately in the presence of JESUS, GOD and fellow Christians.

CHRIST giving HIS all for each of us is the foundation for being and living as a Christian. CHRIST loved us so much that HE died in our behalf. The Christians in Macedonia understood this great heritage and assurance they had in CHRIST. They were dirt poor, struggling physically but excelling Spiritually. GOD knew their hearts, which were filled to the top and overflowing with gratitude and thanksgiving for what CHRIST had done for them.     

When the Christians in Macedonia heard that the Christians in Jerusalem were starving because of a severe famine, they were eager to help. The Apostle Paul and Titus had made the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem known to the Christians in Corinth a year earlier.

The Christians in Corinth had agreed for a year that they would help the Christians in Jerusalem but they had not gotten around to it, as recorded in 2 Corinthians 9:2. This scripture will be considered in our next lesson.

The Christians in Corinth had problems. Yes, they were Christians but they had allowed certain things to take place that compromised their ministry. Paul addressed some of these issues in his first letter to them:

They were divided – 1 Corinthians 1:12b-13:

Each of you says, “I’m with Paul,” or “I’m with Apollos,” or “I’m with • Cephas,” or “I’m with Christ.” 13 Is Christ divided? Was it Paul who was crucified for you? Or were you baptized in Paul’s name?

They did not have unity as the Spiritual body of CHRIST.

They tolerated immorality, took fellow Christians to court, allowed disorderly conduct when the LORD’S Supper was observed, used their Spiritual gifts to taunt their spirituality and the list goes on.

Paul had decided to leave them alone regarding their commitment to give to meet the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem until they resolved some of these issues.

Titus went missing and Paul went to find him. He found him in Macedonia and learned that the Christians in Corinth had repented. This was good news to Paul and he wrote a letter to the Christians in Corinth.

It is easy for Christians to get caught up in their own spiritual self-esteem and miss the reason GOD has given them certain Spiritual gifts to use for HIS Glory, to minister to others and draw others into a personal relationship with CHRIST.

Christians can get Spiritual egos.

GOD allows Christians to equate HIS power as theirs for a season but at a point GOD brings Spiritual reality to them. During the Spiritual growth and maturity process of Christians, their journey often takes many turns. The goal of GOD is for HIS children to be made into the image of CHRIST. The process is called sanctification.

Paul used the sacrificial giving of the Macedonian Christians to encourage the Christians in Corinth to take a step back and re-evaluate their relationship with CHRIST. They were busy in the name of CHRIST but because they were not in right relationship with CHRIST, the unity of the Spiritual body of believers was suffering along with the spread of the Gospel of CHRIST.

I know in the early years of journeying with CHRIST, my life took off like a bullet. But like any bullet, it will eventually fall to the ground or hit something and stop. GOD allows us to go like a bullet because HE knows we will come to rest at some point in our journey with HIM. When that happens, HE can get us to focus upon what HE desires for us to do. When Christians yield their wills to CHRIST it is the beginning of building an intimate relationship with CHRIST. I know I used to think that GOD was dragging HIS feet and needed to catch up with me. HE got my attention that HE is boss.

It is easy for Christians to be about doing but we need to be about doing according to the will and purpose of GOD as revealed by the Holy Spirit.

Let’s explore!

The rich relationship the Christians in Macedonia had in CHRIST gave them an eager desire to help others.

Sometimes GOD allows us to get poor before we can become rich in our relationship with HIM. We work to have and accumulate. When we exit this life upon earth, we leave it all behind. What we do, as led by CHRIST, is stored in the heavenly treasury.

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 8:1-2:

1 We want you to know, • brothers, about the grace of God granted to the churches of Macedonia: 2 During a severe testing by affliction, their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed into the wealth of their generosity.

Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians “brothers” to know about “the grace of GOD.” The Christians in Macedonia were physically poor. They were in “deep poverty,” which means the “deepest form of destitution”, yet they gave. They gave from sincere hearts that reflected that they knew and understood that CHRIST had given HIS all for their salvation. They gave not expecting anything in return because CHRIST had already paid the price for their salvation. HE had made the ultimate sacrifice for each one of them. GOD extended HIS grace to them because they gave from hearts that reflected the same love that CHRIST had for them when HE gave HIS life for them on the cross. CHRIST did for them what they could not do for themselves. They discovered the joy of giving, which was not based upon the numerical value of what they gave. They gave from their physical poverty because of being Spiritually wealthy. GOD saw their hearts and gave them the joy and experience of HIS grace. The Macedonian Christians were blessed, the Christians in Jerusalem were helped and encouraged; the Corinthian Christians were challenged.

Here, Christians must be careful. When we give expecting something in return, we are giving for the wrong reasons. It is a joy to give.

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 8:3-7:

3 I testify that, on their own, according to their ability and beyond their ability, 4 they begged us insistently for the privilege of sharing in the ministry to the • saints , 5 and not just as we had hoped. Instead, they gave themselves especially to the Lord, then to us by God’s will. 6 So we urged Titus that just as he had begun, so he should also complete this grace to you. 7 Now as you excel in everything —faith, speech, knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love for us —excel also in this grace.

Paul knew that the Macedonian Christians were in dire physical needs themselves but they begged him to let them help the Christians in Jerusalem. It seems that Paul was surprised how GOD used their eagerness to help build an intimate, loving, trusting relationship with HIM through CHRIST.

They first gave themselves to the LORD and then they willingly responded to the need that Paul had presented to them regarding the needs of Christians in Jerusalem. Paul was pleasantly surprised at the size of their gift.

Christians around the world have many needs today. We cannot give to all needs. That is why we must be led to give as GOD reveals the need. When HE reveals the need and we join HIM to meet that need, we are working in harmony with HIM. But first, we must have the right relationship with HIM through CHRIST and when we do HE guides us to the opportunity. Then HE provides through those HE calls.

Ephesians 5:15-18:

15 Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk —not as unwise people but as wise— 16 making the most of the time, because the days are evil. 17 So don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit:

Paul’s desire was for the Corinthian Christians to experience “the grace of GOD” as the Christians in Macedonia had experienced. The Christians in Corinth were active but they needed to build the right relationship with CHRIST. When Christians are in right relationship with CHRIST, it fosters the right relationship with fellow Christians and strengthens the ministry GOD has called them too. They knew the truth but there was a problem, they needed to excel in giving.

Paul pointed out in verse 7 that they - “excelled in —faith, speech, knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love for us —excel also in this grace.” They had knowledge and were willing but they needed to yield their wills to CHRIST and allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide them to experience GOD’S grace through giving. In the 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Paul listed the Spiritual gifts they knew about and were using but to reach out effectively, they needed to have unity among the Christian community. Often, when Spiritual gifts are manifested, some Christians get jealous and want these gifts manifested through them. They often forget that Spiritual gifts are from GOD and HE distributes them as HE wills. Spiritual gifts are GOD’S power being manifested through the Christian as directed by the Holy Spirit.

The Corinthian Christians got caught up in the mystical because many had come out of pagan worship. Paul had addressed Spiritual gifts in his first letter to the Christians in Corinth as recorded in 1 Corinthians 12:1-11:

1 Now concerning what comes from the Spirit: • brothers, I do not want you to be unaware. 2 You know that when you were pagans, you used to be led off to the idols that could not speak. 3 Therefore I am informing you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus is cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. 4 Now there are different gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are different ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are different activities, but the same God activates each gift in each person. 7 A demonstration of the Spirit is given to each person to produce what is beneficial: 8 to one is given a message of wisdom (speaking) through the Spirit, to another, a message of knowledge by the same Spirit, 9 to another, faith by the same Spirit, to another, gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another, the performing of miracles, to another, prophecy, to another, distinguishing between spirits, to another, different kinds of • languages, to another, interpretation of languages. 11 But one and the same Spirit is active in all these, distributing to each person as He wills.

These gifts are given by GOD “to whom HE chooses.” These gifts are to minister to the needs of people as directed by the Holy Spirit. Unity among those who have these gifts is important to minister according to GOD’S plan and purpose. Christians can have these gifts but they also need to reflect CHRIST in their lives by having the right relationship with HIM. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 13 that love was the greatest gift of all. The love of CHRIST for us and our love for HIM ranks first among the gifts. Giving from a sincere heart reflects love. Giving is not always monetary.

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 8:8-9:

8 I am not saying this as a command. Rather, by means of the diligence of others, I am testing the genuineness of your love. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ: Though He was rich, for your sake He became poor, so that by His poverty you might become rich.

Paul was telling the Christians in Corinth that he was not commanding them to do what the Macedonian Christians had done just to experience the same outcome. He was telling them to see how they would respond to needs.

When Christians have the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST their hearts are changed and they obediently serve HIM. There are many needs in the world. These needs are all around us. GOD provides the opportunity for Christians to respond to those needs and HE equips us to respond to those needs. It is not the amount that Christians provide or give. The key is to respond as led by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Productive (2) - Who We Work For - Ephesians 6:5-9 - March 9, 2014

Bible Study – Productive (2) – Who We Work For – March 9, 2014

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Productive: Finding Joy in What We Do.”

Our focus scripture is Ephesians 6:5-9.

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Ephesus. Let’s begin by considering what I think was the foundation for what was to follow in Ephesians 6. Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:15-18:

15 Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk —not as unwise people but as wise— 16 making the most of the time, because the days are evil. 17 So don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit:

Paul admonished Christians to walk in the light and power of the Holy Spirit as they go about their daily routines. This was foundational in the lives of Christians for them to be the spouse, parent, employees or boss GOD desired for them to be. These responsibilities in life, as Christians, require the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Christians are to recognize and acknowledge that their roles in life are to honor and reflect CHRIST in everything they do and that requires a firm relationship with CHRIST.

The Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:12-13:

12 I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.

This reflects the assurance and sufficiency of walking with CHRIST in the power of the Holy Spirit. Christians must trust as they walk with CHRIST as reflected in 1 Corinthians 7:20-24:

20 Each person should remain in the life situation in which he was called. 21 Were you called while a • slave? It should not be a concern to you. But if you can become free, by all means take the opportunity. 22 For he who is called by the Lord as a slave is the Lord’s freedman. Likewise he who is called as a free man is Christ’s slave. 23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. 24 • Brothers, each person should remain with God in whatever situation he was called.

The key word is “called.” We must keep in mind that humans were not made for time but for eternity. This earthly life will soon pass but eternity is forever. The difficulties of life upon earth pale in comparison to eternity; CHRIST will be the final judge and Master in eternity. A Christian’s Master is CHRIST both upon earth and in heaven. CHRIST gave us an understanding of that relationship as recorded in John 15:12-15:

12 This is My command: Love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are My friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you • slaves anymore, because a slave doesn’t know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from My Father.

Christians are to show the love of GOD to those with whom they come into contact while they dwell upon earth. That requires a loving, intimate, personal relationship with CHRIST through the indwelling Holy Spirit. You were bought and set free from the slavery of sin and eternal death by the shed blood of CHRIST, therefore, Christians should not give up that freedom to become slaves of men.

Paul was telling Christians to place their trust and hope in CHRIST. Christians are to focus upon their freedom in CHRIST and live above their circumstances they encounter on earth. It is about attitude, faith and trust.

When Christians are in difficult circumstances, when they are in right relationship with CHRIST, they can focus upon circumstances as either drudgery or opportunities to be pleasing to the LORD. However, when we get the opportunity to move to more pleasing circumstances or escape, then take that opportunity. (Verse 21)

The Apostle Paul builds upon this foundation and relationship with CHRIST as he continued to address relationships.

CHRIST should be manifested in the daily walk of Christians at home in the way they treat their – husbands, wives, children, parents and in the workplace – masters and slaves – in all situations Christians are accountable to GOD.

CHRIST should be reflected in all matters which impact the lives of Christians. The Christian should be the most productive and trustworthy person in society and the workplace. Paul was not telling Christians to be wimps but to be wise, consistent, diligent yet firm because they were under the authority of GOD. GOD had placed them in certain circumstances because HE was using them to witness to others.

Paul followed his writing regarding the responsibility of Christians in family and workplace with a focus on spiritual warfare. The home and workplace are key areas that Satan uses to create dissension; the church is another area. Our lesson focuses upon the workplace.

Paul did not focus upon the issue of slavery. During these early times slavery was a part of the culture. It was accepted and not questioned. A focus on the abolition of slavery would have met with strong resistance and likely would have been a major stumbling block in establishing Christianity. Being a Christian slave gave the slave the power to endure his or her circumstances because of the hope he or she had in CHRIST.

There were slaves when JESUS walked upon earth, yet HE did not focus on the issue of slavery but CHRIST focused upon the forgiveness of sin. But a life changed by CHRIST, whether parent, slave, free or earthly boss, means a change in relationships with others.

Those who give their lives to CHRIST, through faith in HIM, will experience a new heart and a new mind through the indwelling Holy Spirit. A Spiritually changed life allows the love of GOD to flow to others.

Being a Christian does not mean that we have to park our brains or work ethics. What Christians are called or required to do must get accomplished. We are to live and work as obedient servants of GOD. HIS wisdom and balance will flow through us to others we encounter during everyday life.

Let’s keep in mind that many people are slaves today because of their choices and only the power of CHRIST can free them from slavery. Various addictions enslave people every day and those who are purveyors of these addictive things are the “masters” of those addicted. There are those sold or kidnapped and forced into the sex trade. There are those who sell themselves into the slave trade to support their addictive habits. Their masters force them into unspeakable work. That is today’s dark side of slavery.

In last week’s study, we saw that work is a gift from GOD. After Adam and Eve sinned, work became problematic to mankind. In the Roman Empire, it has been estimated there were 60 million slaves. A person could become a slave in a number of ways such as: being born as a slave, if their mother was a slave, failure to pay a debt, committing a crime, being a spoil of war, selling oneself into slavery or being kidnapped and sold into the slave trade.

Ephesus was a thriving city of commerce. It had a population of about 250,000 people when Paul wrote his letter. It offered many jobs, some for pay and a large number for slaves.  The city of Ephesus offered public baths, gymnasiums, and a theater that could seat 24,000 people, a public library and a large temple dedicated to a Roman god.

After Paul addressed the Christians’ use of their authority over their family, he turned to the work ethic of Christians – slave or free.

Let’s explore!    

Let’s read Ephesians 6:5:

5 • Slaves, obey your human masters with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ.

Paul wrote to those who were slaves/servants/employees. The Greek word for “slaves” can mean servants or slaves. Slaves were a class of people who had lost their freedom through legal means, birth, etc. as stated earlier. Once they were in the slave system, they had to have someone to pay the price for them to be set free and redeemed. Often, slaves were set free because of the generosity of their owners or escape.

We can become slaves in the world system today. When we spend more than we earn and take out loans and max out our credit cards that we cannot pay back, trouble is ahead. As mentioned earlier, addictions will enslave people. In essence, we can become slaves today by making bad decisions.

In Paul’s day and today, Christians are employed to do a job. They are to work as unto the LORD. When they strive for excellence in executing their duties, it reflects CHRIST in their lives, which, in turn, is a witness for CHRIST and will be rewarded by GOD. We all work for GOD and as we do, CHRIST strengthens us. When Christians work as unto the LORD, there is a natural flow from a sincere, changed heart which glorifies GOD.

Paul used the phrase directed to slaves “obey your human masters with fear and trembling.” He wanted to make it clear that he was addressing human masters and not GOD, because GOD was already the Master of every Christian. He was telling his Christian audience to obey their human masters with the right attitude, which comes from a sincere heart. “Fear and trembling” did not mean for them to be afraid and cower down to their masters but to work as if they were working for CHRIST. Even though they were slaves or servants they would reflect CHRIST to their human masters by having the right attitude toward the work they were given to do. Their obedience came from the very core of their existence which reflects their true relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

Their human master could translate to “owner” or “employer” in today’s world. It is the person with earthly authority over another person.

Let’s read Ephesians 6:6-8:

6 Don’t work only while being watched, in order to please men, but as slaves of Christ, do God’s will from your heart. 7 Serve with a good attitude, as to the Lord and not to men, 8 knowing that whatever good each one does, slave or free, he will receive this back from the Lord.

Paul admonished Christians to have a good work ethic at all times not just when the master came around. Those responsible for getting a job done, the master/boss, most often can spot a slacker or phony. When a Christian goofs off and then attempts to be gung-ho when the boss comes onto the scene may fool the master for awhile but they will not fool their fellow workers. Such behavior by Christians compromises their witness as Christians. Christians are the light of the world and you or I may be the only light those in the dark may see.

The Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the Christians in Colosse as recorded in Colossians 3:23:

23 Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Christ. 25 For the wrongdoer will be paid back for whatever wrong he has done, and there is no favoritism.

Paul stated in verse 7 that Christians are to serve with a “good attitude.” The Greek word for “good attitude” means “to be well-disposed toward something or someone.” It carries the idea of coming from a sincere heart that has been redeemed by GOD. Again, Paul emphasized that Christians were to work as if they were working for CHRIST. When Christians obediently serve their masters as they would serve the Lord, HE will reward them. The reward may be upon earth, in heaven or both.

Notice - Galatians 6:7:

7 Don’t be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows he will also reap,

GOD knows the heart and no one will pull the wool over GOD’S eyes, so-to-speak.

GOD does work in behalf of HIS children - Remember Romans 8:28:

28 We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.

Let’s read Ephesians 6:9:

 9 And masters, treat your slaves the same way, without threatening them, because you know that both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.

The Apostle Paul focused on the masters. The word “masters” could refer to either slaveholders or to heads of households who had both slaves and employees. Paul linked what he had said regarding slaves in the verses leading up to these verses and connected them to their masters “And masters.”  

The Greek word “master” carries the idea of “sir” or “lord” and refers to any person of authority, of high rank, slaveholders or heads of households. Paul ends verse 9 with the statement that GOD does not show favoritism according to human achievements or status. All people are accountable to HIM. Paul wrote in Colossians 4:1:

1 Masters, supply your • slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you too have a Master in heaven.

Christians must operate a business efficiently to maintain the future of that business. If an employee is not working as he or she should after being properly trained and counseled, that employee must be terminated. Christian employers are to practice good management skills.  Masters have the responsibility to be fair but also they have to make hard decisions to preserve the business for others who depend upon that business for their livelihood.

The idea is that if Christians, masters/bosses or employees function as if they are under the authority of GOD and accountable to HIM, they will all function with purpose knowing that GOD is their Master. The workplace will function in harmony and in unity to be successful and glorify GOD.

As the Apostle Paul laid the foundation leading up to those having authority over their spouse, family and workplace it is vital that Christians be filled with the Holy Spirit and to walk in the Spirit as Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:15-18:

15 Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk —not as unwise people but as wise— 16 making the most of the time, because the days are evil. 17 So don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit: Blessings!!!