Bible Study - Connecting (5) - Authentic Joy - 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 - September 30, 2018

Bible Study – Connecting (5) – Authentic Joy – September 30, 2018

This is lesson five (5) in our series entitled “Welcome Home.”

Our focus scripture is 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10.

Authentic joy flows from a relationship with JESUS.

Authentic joy flows from having the right relationship with JESUS. This relationship is developed through obedient service. It comes from both struggling and the good times. When we serve JESUS, life is designed to build our trusting relationship with HIM.

What is having the right relationship with JESUS mean? How would you define it?

Many of us can spot a phony. There are those who can talk the talk but not walk the talk. It is much like a young child saying he or she can repair a complicated electronic device when we know he or she cannot.

The Apostle Paul wrote two letters to the Christians located in Thessalonica.

Thessalonica was founded in 315 BC after Alexander the Great’s death and named for his sister, Thessalonike. Thessalonike was in turn the wife of Cassander who founded the city. It had an excellent harbor and in 146 BC became the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia. The city was located along a major trade route called the Via Egnatia, aka Ignatian Way, which ran from Byzantium or present day Istanbul to the Adriatic Sea, a distance of about 700 miles.

Let’s read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3:

Greeting

1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy: To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to you and peace.

The Apostle Paul was writing to the Christians in the church located in Thessalonica. The Apostle Paul began his letter typical of ancient Greek letters. He stated his name, Silvanus, aka as Silas and Timothy. Paul being listed first identifies him as the primary author.

The letter is addressed to the “church” or “a called out assembly.” This term was not specific to the church as we know it today. Church applied to many kinds of public gatherings in the Roman world. However, after Pentecost church became associated more with an assembly of Christians.

Paul identified those within the body of believers as those who are the born-again believes through faith in GOD the Father of JESUS and JESUS the Son of GOD. GOD sent HIS only Son, JESUS, to earth to live in the flesh and to be subjected to the temptations of the flesh. JESUS had to live a sinless life to become the perfect sacrifice for the sin of mankind, which HE did. In doing so, JESUS became the perfect sacrifice for all who will place their faith in JESUS to have their sins washed away and to become a child of GOD through the miracle of rebirth.

This is embodied in the statement “Grace and Peace.” Grace we know as unmerited favor or the gracious act of GOD to redeem mankind from the consequence of sin, which is eternal death and to give to all who place their faith in JESUS, the gift of eternal life. Grace cannot be earned because it is GOD’S gift when a person accepts GOD’S gift of salvation through faith in JESUS.

The word “peace” is equivalent to the Hebrew word “shalom” and carries the meaning to wish a person wholeness, soundness and prosperity. Grace is the gift from GOD through faith in JESUS, which is the first step to experience real peace.

Thanksgiving

2 We always thank God for all of you, remembering you constantly in our prayers.

As Christians, when we think of fellow Christians, it is an unspeakable joy when we think of those who are faithful servants of our LORD JESUS. Paul expressed this in the next verse ---

3 We recall, in the presence of our God and Father, your work of faith, labor of love, and endurance of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, 

Faithfulness inspires both those serving together and those hearing about the work GOD is doing through those obediently serving GOD. Paul commended them for their faith in JESUS which was evident by their “labor of love” and their “endurance of hope” which resulted from their relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS.

Let’s read 1 Thessalonians 1:4-6:

4 knowing your election, brothers loved by God. 

5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance. You know what kind of men we were among you for your benefit, 

6 and you became imitators of us and of the Lord when, in spite of severe persecution, you welcomed the message with the joy from the Holy Spirit. 

Election is an important term. Let’s consider Ephesians 1:3-14, but focus on verse 4:

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 

4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 

5 he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 

6 to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. 

7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 

8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 

9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 

10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. 

11 In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 

12 so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 

13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 

14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

GOD has chosen every person who will ever live upon earth to become HIS Son or Daughter through the miracle of Spiritual rebirth through faith in JESUS. So what is the problem? Every person has the freedom to choose. The choice is “Do you desire to become a child of GOD through faith in JESUS or reject GOD’S redemptive plan though faith in JESUS? The choice is up to every person. How do you choose?

We need to consider what GOD stated in Exodus 19:3-8:

3 Moses went up [the mountain] to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain: "This is what you must say to the house of Jacob, and explain to the Israelites: 

4 You have seen what I did to the Egyptians and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to Me. 

5 Now if you will listen to Me and carefully keep My covenant, you will be My own possession out of all the peoples, although all the earth is Mine, 

6 and you will be My kingdom of priests and My holy nation. These are the words that you are to say to the Israelites." 

7 After Moses came back, He summoned the elders of the people, and put before them all these words that the Lord had commanded him. 

8 Then all the people responded together, "We will do all that the Lord has spoken." So Moses brought the people's words back to the Lord. 

In essence, GOD was telling the Israelites that HE chose them but it was their choice to choose HIM. The same is true today. Today all has been fulfilled in the coming of the Promised Messiah, JESUS HIS passion and resurrection. JESUS death, by the shedding of HIS blood, paid the penalty for sin, in full, and opened the path between GOD and all of mankind. JESUS’ sacrificial death and resurrection connects mankind and GOD through faith in JESUS. Mankind’s part is to accept the atonement of JESUS, by faith, individually. Accepting JESUS as your Savior triggers an immediate response from GOD. You receive salvation from the consequence of your sin, which is eternal death and prevents you from experiencing the miracle of rebirth into GOD’S eternal family. But the choice is yours to make.

Suppose you once made this decision but have gone astray? GOD never moves. HE is right where you left HIM. It is your choice to return. Just as the prodigal son had to make a decision to return to his father after leaving home to live the wild life, so will you. It takes courage and faith that GOD has open arms to take you back. Trust HIM! HE will take you back in an instant.

Since so much has been written about between our focal scripture, I will recopy it:

5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance. You know what kind of men we were among you for your benefit, 

How did the gospel come to the Thessalonian Christian’s? Words are cheap but when words are accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit they have meaning, application and assurance. A changed life is the proof of the indwelling JESUS, manifested by the indwelling Holy Spirit. How do we know this? It is because ----

6 and you became imitators of us and of the Lord when, in spite of severe persecution, you welcomed the message with the joy from the Holy Spirit. 

How does it make us feel when we consider that others become “imitators of us?”

When a Christian endures severe persecution, it reflects his or her faith in JESUS and that it is genuine. In James 1:2-4, we read:

2 Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials,

3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 

4 But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. 

What impact does your faithfulness have on others?

Let’s read 1 Thessalonians 1:7-10:

7 As a result, you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 

8 For the Lord's message rang out from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place that your faith in God has gone out, so we don't need to say anything. 

9 For they themselves report about us what kind of reception we had from you: how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 

10 and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead - Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.

Faithful endurance is a witness to others. As Christians, only eternity will reveal how our faithfulness will impact others. This is a gold reward and most likely we will never realize it. GOD holds this as our surprise when rewards day comes in Heaven.

As Christians, our home is secured in Heaven and while we wait we are to obediently serve. Our witness speaks louder than words. Let’s us walk in the Spirit as Ambassadors of JESUS. Blessings!!!

Bible Study – Connecting (4) – Intentional Love – September 23, 2018

This is lesson four (4) in our series entitled “Welcome Home.”

Our focus scripture is Luke 10:25-37.

Go out of your way to love others.

This series of study began by revealing that JESUS did for those who place their faith in HIM, what they could NOT do for themselves. (Titus 3:5) No person can earn his or her way to heaven by his or her effort. JESUS conquered the consequence of sin, which is eternal death, by HIS shed blood. The resurrection of JESUS by GOD from the physically death is proof that HE defeated both sin and eternal death. This was followed by our lesson on religious people showing favoritism to those who are wealthy and possibly those who have influence. Our next lesson focused on the fact that every person is either bound for Heaven or Hell. We who know the truth are to reach out to those who do not know the truth regarding salvation through faith in JESUS.

Showing hospitality is a Spiritual Gift. Hospitality is an outward expression of a Christian’s love for others. JESUS can return to earth at any instant. 

This is referring to the Second Coming of JESUS or the rapture. Whether JESUS returns or, just as urgent, is the fact that all people are just one heartbeat away from eternity. All of us must be ready to enter eternity at any instant.

Christians are to live with this sense of urgency and anticipation that JESUS could return at an instant or any person could enter into eternity at any second.

Life offers us many opportunities to reach out to others in need. This has never been as evident as the hurricane/tropical storm that has passed through the Carolina’s, Virginia, etc. in the last week or so.

Our study this week focuses on our attitude toward helping others in need. Let’s explore!      

Let’s read Luke 10:25-28:

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

25 Just then an expert in the law stood up to test Him, saying, "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 

26 "What is written in the law?" He asked him. "How do you read it?" 

27 He answered: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.

28 "You've answered correctly," He told him. "Do this and you will live."

An expert in the Law or a scribe asked JESUS a question designed to test HIM. This scribe knew the Law and he addressed JESUS as “Teacher” which equated to “Rabbi.” The scribe asked from the position of knowing the Law and what he was supposed to do according to the Law. JESUS knew this, so HE turned the question back to the scribe, “How do you read it?” The scribe responded and gave the correct answer.

Often, we know the truth of what we are to do but fail to apply the truth we know. When a person accepts JESUS as his or her Savior Spiritual rebirth takes place instantly. In the twinkling of the eye or faster, GOD sends the Holy Spirit to indwell the new born Christian the instant he or she places his or her faith in JESUS. In an instant, the new Christian is born into GOD’S Family through the miracle of rebirth. At that same instant, GOD endows the new Christian with the indwelling Holy Spirit as a “down payment” or “guarantee” or “assurance” that he or she has been born-again into the family of GOD as a Son or Daughter. The indwelling Holy Spirit is a Christian’s assurance or guarantee of salvation. At the instant of salvation, GOD equips each Christian with a Spiritual gift or Spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit. HE gives Christians gifts of the Holy Spirit as needed as they journey through life and obediently serve HIM.

What is the missing ingredient before JESUS gave HIS life upon the cross to pay in full the penalty for our sins versus after the passion of JESUS? It is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within each person who has placed his or her faith in JESUS. It is recorded in 1 Corinthians 3:16 - 16 Don't you know that you are God's sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 

As Christians, we have the desire to know GOD personally, intimately and to obediently serve HIM. This was the goal of those who desired to obediently serve GOD before JESUS gave HIS life to pay the sin debt in full. Before JESUS’ passion a relationship with GOD was more physical than Spiritual. Since the passion of JESUS, the indwelling Holy Spirit helps Christians to build the right relationship with GOD. GOD’S Grace is the missing ingredient between before JESUS and after JESUS’ passion and resurrection.  

Most Christians, including me, have thought of being filled with the Holy Spirit as displaying some form of emotional behavior. JESUS was filled with the Holy Spirit and HE is our example. HE spoke truth that came from HIS Father. When a Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit there is balance in his or her life as the result of his or her natural relationship with GOD. Just as a new born baby grows naturally so does a new born Christian. Within every baby is all that he or she needs to grow naturally. The same is true within the born-again believer. The key is, “LORD here I am, help me to grow and develop Spiritually into Your Son or Daughter that YOU desire for me.” Just as babies need food, nourishment, exercise, training so do new born Christians.

What did JESUS reveal to us? As recorded in John 16:13 - 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 

How does this scripture compare to the relationship JESUS had with HIS Father, GOD? Let’s consider John 5:19-20:

19 Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.

This comes from having the right relationship with the Father. It is vital that every Christian have the right relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS. What does that mean? JESUS said it best when HE was teaching HIS disciples as in Matthew 17:20:

20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

Here is where the rubber meets the road. Many of us say, but we have faith! But is it the faith enough to trust GOD and take our hands off a situation or to do what the Holy Spirit has laid upon our hearts to do or not do?

The “Spirit of Truth” came at Pentecost to indwell all who placed their faith in JESUS and the Spirit of Truth indwells every Christian today and reveals truth.  

The scribe in our focus scripture wanted to test JESUS and embarrass HIM before those gathered listening to this exchange.        

Let’s read Luke 10:29-32:

29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 

30 Jesus took up [the question] and said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him, beat him up, and fled, leaving him half dead. 

31 A priest happened to be going down that road. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 

32 In the same way, a Levite, when he arrived at the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 

The scribe asked JESUS “And who is my neighbor?” The Jews considered fellow Jews their neighbor. But how would JESUS answer this question? Some believe the scribe wanted JESUS to define “neighbor” in a manner that did not require much from the Jews.  JESUS told the scribe a story or a parable, which is an earthly story with a Heavenly meaning.

JESUS told of a man going down from Jerusalem. I understand that there were stretches of this road that were ideal for robbers to hide and take advantage of those traveling on the road. Often, those traveling this road would travel in groups to avoid such a possibility. Robbers lurked along this stretch of the road waiting to rob an unexpecting traveler(s). The robbers took this poor man’s clothes, beat him to an inch of his life and left him to die. All we know is that this was a man who fell upon robbers. This wounded man could have been a fellow Jew or a “foreigner.” The point is that it was a fellow human being who could not help himself and was in dire need of help or he would likely die.

Possible help came along. It was a priest also going down the same stretch of the road. This likely meant that the priest had served his time at the temple and was headed home. The priest saw the poor wounded man and moved to the other side of the road. If the priest had gone over to minister to this poor soul and the wounded man died this would have defiled the priest. The priest would be defiled for a period of time after contacting a dead body as recorded in Numbers 19:11-13:

11 “Whoever touches a human corpse will be unclean for seven days. 12 They must purify themselves with the water on the third day and on the seventh day; then they will be clean. But if they do not purify themselves on the third and seventh days, they will not be clean. 13 If they fail to purify themselves after touching a human corpse, they defile the LORD’s tabernacle. They must be cut off from Israel. Because the water of cleansing has not been sprinkled on them, they are unclean; their uncleanness remains on them. 

I understand that often these robbers would use a victim to lure more potential victims over so they could rob them. So the priest needed to be cautious.

Then a Levite was also going down the same road. He too had likely served his time in the temple and was going home. The Levite helped the priest. He saw this poor soul and likewise passed on the opposite side of the road. JESUS did not give the reason why these two icons of the Jews did not render assistance. The point is they did not. Passing on the opposite side of the road was a safety move because the robbers could still be lurking and waiting for another victim or was it? JESUS had not revealed the identity of the poor half dead man. It could have been a fellow Jew or a foreigner. The point is that the injured man was a fellow human being.

As this story unfolded the scribe was likely hanging onto every word, so he could find a flaw in what JESUS was saying.

Now for the great reveal as we read on ----

Let’s read Luke 10:33-37:

33 But a Samaritan on his journey came up to him, and when he saw [the man], he had compassion. 

34 He went over to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 

35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, 'Take care of him. When I come back I'll reimburse you for whatever extra you spend.' 

36"Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" 

37 "The one who showed mercy to him," he said. Then Jesus told him, "Go and do the same."

JESUS continued the parable. HE identified the man who traveling on this same notorious road. He was a Samaritan. Why a Samaritan? The Jews disliked the Samaritans with a passion. The Jews considered the Samaritans as “half-breeds” because they intermarried with the Babylonians during their exile in Babylon. They did not maintain the pure Jewish bloodline. Samaria was physically located between Galilee and Judea and it was closer to travel through Samaria if you were traveling from Galilee to Judea or vice versa.  In fact, Jews would take the long way around Samaria to avoid encountering a Samaritan or placing their foot on Samaritan soil.

Does this paint a picture of our hearts toward others? If so, we have a Spiritual heart problem and it is not with our ticker, it is with our relationship with GOD through our faith in JESUS. Discrimination and prejudice is a barrier that must be dealt with in the lives of Christians.

This despised by the Jews Samaritan ministered to this person who fell among robbers, whereas the icons of the Jews, the priest and the Levite, passed by without helping the wounded man. The Samaritan was the local EMS and he tended to the victim’s immediate needs by pouring wine, alcohol, to kill any germs and oil to promote healing of his wounds. He used the ambulance of his day, his own animal, to transport this man to a place where the Samaritan would be safe and he could better take care of the injured man.

The Samaritan ministered to the injured man through the night. The next day, the Samaritan prepaid the innkeeper to take care of the injured man and if it took more money than he had given him that he would give it to him when he returned.

Then JESUS asked the scribe the question, “Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” The scribe responded but notice he did not refer to the man as the Samaritan but “The one who showed mercy to him.” JESUS then made HIS point to the scribe and to all Christians “Go and do the same.”         

What impact did this parable have on the scribe and others who were listening? What impact does it have on us today? It drills down deep into our hearts and reveals our true attitude and relationship toward others. If there is something within our hearts the refiner’s fire brings up the dross in our lives that needs to be confessed as sin and dealt with. It is the refiner’s fire that purifies the gold or our true relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS. How do we measure up? Blessings!!!

Bible Study – Connecting (3) – Gracious Hospitality – September 16, 2018

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Welcome Home.”

Our focus scripture is 1 Peter 4:7-11.

Ground your service and love in hospitality.

To whom was the Apostle Peter was writing? Let’s explore!

1 Peter 1-1-2: (Background)

1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia,

2 who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.

The Apostle Peter was writing to the diaspora or the Jewish Christians fleeing persecution from the Jews in Jerusalem and surrounding area. The letter written by the Apostle Peter is considered a general letter sent throughout the provinces, which we know today as Turkey.

First Peter 2:11-12 reveals why the Apostle Peter wrote this letter:

1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.

2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,

3 now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

The Living Stone and a Chosen People

4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— 

5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 

6 For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” 

7 Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” 

8 and, “A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. 

9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 

10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Living Godly Lives in a Pagan Society

11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 

12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. 

This is true today. Christians are to be an example of living to reflect their relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS. Christians are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Christians are a “Royal Priesthood.” Notice, Christians are!

No one knows the instant when JESUS will return to earth for the second time; not even JESUS. At HIS second coming, the Christians who have departed earth in physical death will receive their New Glorified bodies and all Christians who are alive upon earth, at the same time, will receive their new Glorified bodies and be taken to Heaven. This is called the rapture. The Apostle Peter was admonishing all Christians to live as though JESUS was coming at any second because this event could happen at any instant, which it can. Therefore, Christians are to live accordingly.

This is reflected in our focus scripture as we read on -----

Let’s read 1 Peter 4:7:

7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 

Christians are to be alert to the fact that JESUS could return to earth at any instant. Satan’s desire is for Christians and non-Christians alike to be lulled into thinking they have plenty of time, therefore, they are not to worry. The Apostle Peter is urging Christians stay focused on this fact and pray as they live each day for the opportunity to share the Gospel with others and live in the power of the Holy Spirit. Why? It is because they represent GOD as HIS ambassadors through the miracle of Spiritual rebirth to those who are in need of Salvation form sin and its consequence, eternal death.

                                                                                                

Let’s read 1 Peter 4:8-9:

8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 

9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 

Often, we as Christians, are cliquish. We must open up to others and especially those who are not Christians. Hospitality is opening up to meet the needs of others, which includes both physical and Spiritual needs.

Christians are not perfect. They do not have a license to do whatever they desire. They sin. They are to recognize when they sin and confess their sin as the Apostle John recorded in 1 John 1:8-10:

8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 

10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

Just as Christians experience GOD’S forgiveness and HIS love, Christians are to extend this love to others. Just as GOD is consistent, Christians are to be consistent. Christians need to keep in mind that just as we hate the sin in our lives, we are to hate the sin in the lives of others but love the sinner.

One way Christians can extend love to others is to offer them hospitality.

What is hospitality? We generally think of being good hosts. The Greek word used for “hospitality” means “friendly to strangers.” This is being friendly to those who we consider different from us. Being different takes on many forms.

Hebrews 13:1-3 gives us a different perspective:

1 Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. 

2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. 

3 Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.

I must insert a caution. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in discerning what you are to do when you encounter strangers. If you feel uneasy, then pay attention because those who desire to take advantage or do harm know the Christian language. Be wise. Discernment is a gift of the Holy Spirit. This leads us to our next scripture ----

Let’s read 1 Peter 4:10-11:

10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 

11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

“Various forms” means “many-colored” or many facets of GOD’S Grace. When Christians speak they are to speak “the very Words of GOD.” When they serve, they are to “serve.” They are to serve with the strength GOD provides so that GOD is manifested and others see GOD and not us. GOD’S Strength goes beyond human effort and Glorifies GOD. All Glory goes to GOD because our relationship with HIM is through our faith in JESUS and GOD’S Grace. GOD’S Grace cannot be earned by human effort. Remember 2 Corinthians 5:20-21:

20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 

21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

When a person accepts JESUS as his or her Savior, GOD places our cloak of sin upon HIS Only SON JESUS to become sin for us and HE places JESUS’ cloak of righteousness upon those who place their faith in JESUS. Christians then become the righteousness of GOD and their destination is eternal life with GOD and JESUS in Heaven.

Christians are to use their Spiritual gift or gifts with which GOD has equipped them. Keep in mind that GOD equips every Christian with at least one or more Spiritual Gift as recorded in 1 Corinthians 12:11:

11 All these (Spiritual Gifts) are the work of one and the same Spirit, and He distributes them to each one, just as He determines.

Use your Spiritual gift(s). Ask JESUS to reveal your Spiritual gift(s), if you do not know what Spiritual gift(s) you have.

Very important “HE gives as HE determines” or “as HE chooses.” Christians can desire certain Spiritual Gifts but it is GOD’S choice to whom they are given. Consider what a “Spiritual Gift” is. A gift is something given to you. It is given with you in mind to be used as GOD leads you according to HIS plan and purpose.

I was in a charismatic meeting many years ago. At the end of the preaching, the person who spoke asked the audience “Who out there wants to receive the gift of tongues?” A number of people in the audience raised their hands. The speaker told them to come on down and they would receive the “gift of tongues.” My immediate thought was, “This is not Biblical according to 1 Corinthians 12:11.” I left that meeting never to return. This is why it is vital that Christians know GOD’S Word.

I did desire the gift of tongues and prayed accordingly. In the quietness of our family room, the still small voice of GOD very clearly told me that I did not need the gift of tongues that English was a perfectly good tongue and if I ever needed a different language HE would give it to me. HE further explained that HE spoke in many different languages – nature, poetry, music, paintings, through HIS Word, HIS still small voice and in fact anyway HE chooses because HE knows what will get a person’s attention. GOD equips HIS Children to obediently serve HIM and Glorify HIM in the process.

Christians must keep in mind what JESUS taught and recorded in Luke 11:11-13:

11 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead?  

12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 

13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

As we look back at verse 11, it seems that the Apostle Peter is pronouncing a benediction. But the key is that GOD and JESUS need to be in the forefront of all that Christians do. Our actions need to reflect HIM because without HIM we have no hope. The hope of all people is to place their faith in JESUS, GOD’S only SON. JESUS came to earth in the flesh and willingly gave HIS life that we might experience a personal, intimate, loving relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS not only upon earth but for eternity.

Blessings!!!

Bible Study – Connecting (2) – Open Arms – September 9, 2018

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Welcome Home.”

Our focus scripture in James 2:1-10.

Welcoming others goes beyond a friendly handshake.

Showing partiality is an act of evil, which James equates to sin. 

Partiality/favoritism is a form of discrimination, which includes:

-         Economic status

-         Race

-         Ethnicity

-         Where a person lives or born

-         The type of house where a person lives

-         Lifestyle, Car, Accent, School or schools and the list goes on

Let’s read James 1:1:

1 James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ: To the 12 tribes in the Dispersion. Greetings.

To whom was James the half-brother of JESUS writing? He was writing to the 12 tribes. These were Jews who had become Christians in the Jerusalem and surrounding area. Fellow Jews in the Jerusalem and surrounding area persecuted these Jews who became Christians and as such these Jewish Christians fled the Jerusalem area. The Jewish-Christians who fled Jerusalem/Israel are referred to as the Diaspora. These Jewish-Christians in many cases had not been taught how JESUS fulfilled the law when HE gave HIS life upon the cross when HE allowed the Romans to crucify HIM. James was teaching these Jewish-Christians what they had through faith in JESUS. Thus, as we read our scripture, we will see how this attempt to help the Jewish-Christians to live under grace and not the law would result in a lifestyle change from their Jewish teachings to the teachings of JESUS.

James highlighted some of the areas these Jewish Christians would need to wrap their minds around such as what James wrote in James 1:2-27:

2 Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, 

3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 

4 But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. 

5 Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him. 

6 But let him ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind. 

7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 

8 An indecisive man is unstable in all his ways. 

9 The brother of humble circumstances should boast in his exaltation; 

10 but the one who is rich [should boast] in his humiliation, because he will pass away like a flower of the field. 

11 For the sun rises with its scorching heat and dries up the grass; its flower falls off, and its beautiful appearance is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will wither away while pursuing his activities. 

12 Blessed is a man who endures trials, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that He has promised to those who love Him. 

13 No one undergoing a trial should say, "I am being tempted by God." For God is not tempted by evil, and He Himself doesn't tempt anyone. 

14 But each person is tempted when he is drawn away and enticed by his own evil desires.

15 Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and when sin is fully grown, it gives birth to death. 

16 Don't be deceived, my dearly loved brothers. 

17 Every generous act and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights; with Him there is no variation or shadow cast by turning. 

18 By His own choice, He gave us a new birth by the message of truth so that we would be the firstfruits of His creatures.

Hearing and Doing the Word

19 My dearly loved brothers, understand this: everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, 

20 for man's anger does not accomplish God's righteousness. 

21 Therefore, ridding yourselves of all moral filth and evil excess, humbly receive the implanted word, which is able to save you. 

22 But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 

23 Because if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man looking at his own face in a mirror; 

24 for he looks at himself, goes away, and right away forgets what kind of man he was. 

25 But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer who acts-this person will be blessed in what he does. 

26 If anyone thinks he is religious, without controlling his tongue but deceiving his heart, his religion is useless. 

27 Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

The Jews thought if they were prosperous and life was going well for them and their family, they were in right-standing with GOD. James was painting a larger picture for those who had become Christians through faith in JESUS the Promised Messiah.

This applies to us, as Christians, today. Often, we get the idea that life is supposed to be smooth sailing for us when we obediently serve JESUS. But often, it is the issues and circumstances we face in life’s journey that help us to build an intimate, loving, personal relationship with GOD through our faith in JESUS.

So as Christians, how are we to live as born-again Children of GOD through faith in JESUS?

Let’s read James 2:1-4:

Favoritism Forbidden

1 My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 

Fellow Christians, we “must not show favoritism.” What does that mean? Favoritism is the display of preferential treatment to a person or persons not shown to others. The word “favoritism” means “receiving or lifting the face. If a ruler received or lifted this person’s face the ruler would hear what the person had to say.

James, the half-brother of JESUS, followed the statement in verse 1 with the following example to all Christians and especially the Jewish-Christians ---

2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. 

He gave an illustration which could be compared and evaluated. It could have been an example reflecting what he had observed among those to whom he was writing.

A person wearing a gold ring and fine clothes would give the impression that he or she was wealthy. The language implied that this person was “shining,” standing out among the group or we may say today that this person was dressed to the “nines.” The obviously poor person was filthy. The use of the word “filthy” could lead the reader or hearer to embellish what could often accompany a person who is considered “filthy.” What is our natural tendency?

Often, we show partiality or special attention to the person we think is wealthy, likely prominent and would represent our group well. We want that person to become a member of our group and our friend. If we or our group depends upon financial or other support, this person would be a good resource for us.

Our natural tendency is to cater to the apparent wealthy or prominent person by offering him or her the best seat in our meeting or gathering. But when we show partiality or favoritism, what message does that communicate to others both within and outside our group or meeting?

3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 

4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 

James likely touched a nerve. He likely knew of situations where they had discriminated among each other within their group. Now that James had their attention, James wanted them to listen carefully. This is a message to all Christians. Most churches or Christian groups struggle with finances or the desire to influence the community. It is easy for them to get caught up in seeking elite members or attendees.

When Christians show “favoritism” it reveals their heart. The Jews thought fellow Jews, who were prosperous, were blessed by GOD and were in right relationship with HIM. This thought process likely carried over into the Christian faith. Christians needed to get it straight how GOD looks upon a person. It is not his or her prosperity. It is his or her heart. Riches can be a barrier to a person with wealth. JESUS said it best as recorded in Matthew 19:24:

24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

Let’s read James 2:5-7:

5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 

6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 

7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong? 

James wanted fellow Christians to understand that GOD looked beyond personal accomplishments to the attitude of the heart. James stated, often, it is the wealthy who are your enemy and not your friend. We may seek to impress those who have wealth or prominence, which highlights an attitude of our hearts.

This does not mean we shun those who are wealthy or powerful but we are to realize that often a person’s wealth or position can be a hindrance to him or her from becoming a Christian. Often, a person believes he or she is in the right relationship with GOD because he or she has prospered. A person can be self-sufficient and think he or she does not need GOD or already in right relationship with GOD because of his or her accomplishments. This was the Jewish understanding.

Do not be misled, all, rich and poor, are in need of salvation through faith in JESUS. Those who are poor are in need of material things. Often, this is GOD’S way of getting their attention to seek HIM. We must keep in mind that GOD has known each of us before the world was created. (Eph. 1:4).

As the poor seek material needs from the storehouse of GOD, they experience GOD’S provision and care. This, in turn, draws them or us closer to HIM and they or we build a personal, intimate relationship with HIM. We also need to keep in mind that GOD’S ways are not our way and HIS thoughts are higher than our thoughts. (Isa. 55:9)

This is true today as we journey through life. This is where trust comes into our lives. When Christians are in the dark that is when we must trust in the dark what we have learned in the light. Easy to say but hard to practice when it is you or your family during dark times. But trusting in the dark builds a person’s faith.

James was attempting to change the mind-set of those coming from Judaism and bringing such thought-life into being a born-again believer in JESUS.

Often, people who are self-sufficient dishonor the name of JESUS. They consider those who need JESUS deficient in their ability or intelligence to deal with the issues they encounter in life. Often, these people consider faith in JESUS to be a crutch to enable their weakness. How do we look at faith in JESUS?

JESUS offers hope for all – rich or poor, the mighty or weak because all are sinners in need of salvation.

Let’s read James 2:8-10:

8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. 

James quoted Leviticus 19:18:

18 Do not take revenge or bear a grudge against members of your community, but love your neighbor as yourself; I am the Lord. 

JESUS reinforced this when a lawyer asked HIM a question as recorded in Luke 10:25-27:

25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 

26 “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?” 

27 He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 

JESUS replied, in essence, since you know what to do, then put what you know into action. Most Christians know what to do but putting what they know into action falls short; me included.

Putting what we know into action is often a problem. The key for Christians is, when a short coming is brought to his or her attention that is the moment he or she needs to confess it, pray and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Often, Christians jump into what we think is GOD’S will and purpose. We may need to pray, or we may need a prayer partner to join us in praying to seek GOD’S will in how we are to respond. By the same token, often, we know instantly.

9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 

10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 

In verses 9 and 10, James is talking to those who are hanging onto their Jewish heritage. Notice that James calls favoritism a “sin” and when those under the law break one point of the law they have broken all of the law. That is why GOD’S Grace is superior to the Law. The only way a person escapes the law is through faith in JESUS. When you have JESUS you are free from the law and its consequence. A Christian is under GOD’S Grace. Therefore, Jewish-Christians, rejoice in your new relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS. Yes, you still sin but when you confess it, repent and GOD forgives and restores. You always belong to GOD through faith in JESUS.

Let’s read James 2:12-13:

12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 

13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

When we show favoritism, in essence, we are judging without mercy or grace. Mercy, compassion and love are attributes of GOD. Christians are being made into the image of JESUS. Prejudice, favoritism, etc. are not becoming attributes of GOD’S ambassadors to HIS Kingdom. Ouch!

Blessings!!!