Thursday, March 29, 2012

Philippians 2:19-30

Philippians 2:19-30 NIV
 19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.

What a wonderful testimony of Timothy's life.  He had a genuine concern for the welfare of others, he had Christ's interest at heart, he served Paul as a son would his father and his actions were known by others.  This causes me to pause for self evaluation.  Where is my heart?  How do I serve?  How do people view me?  I don't mean live my life in fear of other's opinions, but do they know that I serve God by the way that I live.


 25 But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. 26 For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27 Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. 28 Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29 So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.

Another testimony of another worker in Christ.  This one almost died.  I find it comforting that Epaphroditus was more concerned about the people that found out he was ill.  I also find it comforting that even Paul had anxiety.  Yes, we are told not to worry (Matthew 6:27-34) and in just two chapters Paul will speak of anxiety (Philippians 4:6).  Where I find my comfort that these were flawed human men who just trusted in God. 

For so long I allowed my flaws to hold me back from serving Christ with all my heart because I did not want to be called a hypocrite.  I've learned in the last 18 months that perfection will not come till I am with Christ in heaven.  As long as I am here on Earth the temptation to sin will always be with me.  I need to bring those weaknesses to Him and serve Him anyway.

God Bless.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Philippians 2:12-18

Philippians 2:12-18 NIV
 12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

This is NOT a works salvation.  When we first believe in Christ we truly are clueless of how to live our walk with Him.  Working out our salvation is not EARNING it, but LEARNING what it entails.  Also note vs 13.  It is God who works in us and changes us.  When we fail it not his fault, but just one more proof that He is not done with us yet.

 14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life.  And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

Look around you.  Everywhere people grumble and argue about most everything.  If you follow this instruction you will shine because you will be so different.   This difference in you life will be noticed and people will want to know why and how.  This will provide opportunity to share the gospel.  Your testimony will be trustworthy because the difference in you life was evident BEFORE testimony was given.

 17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Paul was not sure if he would leave prison alive.  He was prepared to be a martyr of that was what God required of him.  He still rejoiced in the faith of the church at Phillipe.  We could learn from this that we too can rejoice in the victories of others. 

God Bless.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Philippians 2:1-11

Philippians 2:1-11 NIV
 1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Once again we see that our actions are to be a response to the love Christ has already given to us.  Christ did not go to the cross for His own gain, he went there for ours.

 5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
 6 Who, being in very nature God,
   did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
   by taking the very nature of a servant,
   being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
   he humbled himself
   by becoming obedient to death—
      even death on a cross! 


He was already God.  Had been for all eternity past.  Yet He gave it all up for mankind to be reconciled to the Father.

 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
   and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
   in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, 


It was because of His obedience that the Father exalted Him.

I'll be open right now and say that I am having a rough week.  I'm tired of my situation and this lesson could not be better timed.   If Christ Himself did not grasp for what was His and waited on the Father, then what right do I have to be impatient?

I'm waiting Lord.

God Bless.

Monday, March 26, 2012

Philippians 1:27-30

Philippians 1:27-30 NIV
 27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.

"Whatever happens."  I know I have excuses of why I do the things I do.  I had 3 conversations this weekend and every one of them thought themselves justified in their actions "because they did (fill in the blank)."  But we are to live worthy of the gospel and that involves trusting in God and know that he will vindicate us.  Our problem lies in the fact the we are concentrating on one leaf on our tree, yet God can see the entire forest and he has a plan for us.  We need to trust in Him for our day to day existance in the same way we trusted in Him for our forgiveness and salvation.

 Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.

Striving together in the Spirit without fear.  How many times I've let fear hold me back from doing something.  And oh how many times I have allowed pride to prevent me from working together under submission of the Holy Spirit.  My pride sense of being "right" stood in the way.

This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.

Those who reject God will be destroyed.

 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

Remember as we studied Romans that God chose us and that we will suffer as Christ did.  Paul is an example of the suffering we may face.

God Bless.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Philippians 1:12-26

Philippians 1:12-26 NIV
 12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.

Paul was arrested for preaching.  He did not waste by feeling sorry for himself or angry with God.  He had a captive audience in the soldiers and he preached to them.  Without this arrest he would never have had the opportunity to speak with these soldiers.  Also his example encouraged other believers.

We should follow Paul's example and use every opportunity to share Christ and therefore encourage other believers.

 15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

Paul was only concerned about the advancement of the gospel.  He was not concerned about the motives of other people.  God can and does use anyone he wants.  He will judge the persons motives.

   Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.

Paul lived for the eternal.  If Paul was to die, he was excited about going home, yet he knew he had work to do here and was willing and confident that God would let him do it.

I'm convicted that I am not anywhere near this point.   How about you?

God Bless.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Philippians 1:1-11

Philippians 1:1-11 NIV
1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,
   To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:
2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 
3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Paul begins with his greeting and immediately informs the church at Philippe that he is grateful for them and that he prays for them.  I'm convicted that I do not pray enough for my brothers and sister in Christ.

I'm also encouraged by verse 6.  God is not done with me yet and He will complete the work he started in me.  The above conviction is something that can change as God continues to work in my heart.

 7 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. 8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

Paul's feelings for them are real, yet he does not seek human confirmation.  God's testimony is enough for Paul.  I think how often I've tried to prove myself right before others instead of just allowing God to be my witness and to trust in Him for justice.

 9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

This prayer was answered this morning.  I had a choice to make and I was able to apply my knowledge of scripture and chose the best path.  I'm writing this blog rejoicing in having made the right choice instead of convicted and confession of having made the wrong choice.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Romans 16

Romans 16 NIV
 1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. 2 I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.
 3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. 4 They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.
 5 Greet also the church that meets at their house.
   Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia.
 6 Greet Mary, who worked very hard for you.
 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was.
 8 Greet Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord.
 9 Greet Urbanus, our co-worker in Christ, and my dear friend Stachys.
 10 Greet Apelles, whose fidelity to Christ has stood the test.
   Greet those who belong to the household of Aristobulus.
 11 Greet Herodion, my fellow Jew.
   Greet those in the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.
 12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, those women who work hard in the Lord.
   Greet my dear friend Persis, another woman who has worked very hard in the Lord.
 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too.
 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas and the other brothers and sisters with them.
 15 Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas and all the Lord’s people who are with them.

I sometimes forget that the books of the New Testament in the Bible are a collection of letters written to the churches.  Here we read Paul's greetings to friends and church members.  Some for help and some for a simple "Hello".

These verses got me thinking of the people named in the Bible.  Some for examples for us to follow and some for examples NOT to follow.  It makes me wonder how I will be remembered.  I hope to be remembered as King David is and that being a Man after God's own heart.  Yeah he screwed up a lot, but he always came back to God.  I screw up, but I always come back to God.  Then there is the apostle Peter.  He was impulsive with his "Ready! Fire! Aim! personality, but once he was sold our to Christ the change in his life was incredible.

 16 Greet one another with a holy kiss.
   All the churches of Christ send greetings. 

This is a cultural thing, but I sure did love this verse growing up in youth group and we tried to make it part of our culture.  Holy hugs and kisses all around.

 17 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.

There are people in this world that thrive on conflict and there are those that know enough "religion" to sound good, but they are not from God.  The best way to know who they are is to KNOW what you believe.  A bank teller does not study counterfeit bills.  They know what the real ones look like so they can spot a fake immediately.   Now they have pens that will spot at fake and we have the Word of God that we can turn to should we have doubts concerning someones teaching.

 20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
   The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

There will be an end to our struggle.  If Paul thought it was soon 2000 years ago, it is that much sooner now.

 21 Timothy, my co-worker, sends his greetings to you, as do Lucius, Jason and Sosipater, my fellow Jews.
 22 I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord.
 23 Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings.
   Erastus, who is the city’s director of public works, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings. [24]

More greetings and you will also note that Paul had a scribe named Tertius who took this opportunity to say hello.  You will note there is no verse 24.  Keep in mind the verses were added to help us find certain passages and are not included in the original letters.  The NIV translators for reasons unknown to me did not include, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.", that is found in the KJV.

 25 Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past,

Once again Paul brings everything back to Christ.

 26 but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith—

He reminds us that this is not his word but God's word and he is obeying God by sharing it.

 27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen. 

I agree.  To God be the glory.


This concludes my study of the Book of Romans.  I hope you learned as much as I did.  Much of this was a review for me, but there are there as still sections that puzzle me and I'll revisit those another time.  Next up is Philippians.  The emphasis of that book is Joy.  Hopefully we will begin that tomorrow.

God Bless.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Romans 15:14-33

Romans 15:14-33 NIV
 14 I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.

As Paul encouraged the brothers here we too should encourage our brothers.  Most of us are real good at complaining, but not real good at encouragement.

 15 Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
 17 Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God. 18 I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— 19 by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ.

Paul has a mission and he knows from where the strength comes to fulfill that mission.  He give glory to Jesus and remembers that he is God's servant.  The focus is not on us, it is on Christ and what He has done.

 20 It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation. 21 Rather, as it is written:
   “Those who were not told about him will see,
   and those who have not heard will understand.”

 22 This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you. 
 23 But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to visit you, 24 I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. 25 Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the Lord’s people there. 26 For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord’s people in Jerusalem. 27 They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews’ spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings. 28 So after I have completed this task and have made sure that they have received this contribution, I will go to Spain and visit you on the way.

Paul put his missionary work before his own desires.  Only after he'd finished his task did he start to plan for the things he wanted to do.

 29 I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ.
 30 I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. 31 Pray that I may be kept safe from the unbelievers in Judea and that the contribution I take to Jerusalem may be favorably received by the Lord’s people there, 32 so that I may come to you with joy, by God’s will, and in your company be refreshed. 33 The God of peace be with you all. Amen.

Paul urged them to pray.  I know that I just don't pray enough.

God Bless.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Romans 15:1-13

Romans 15:1-13 NIV
 1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

Our entire culture is saturated with the "me" mentality.  If it feels good do it is the moto.  Our advertising is full of "Because you're worth it.", "You deserve a break today", "Have it your way.".  Frank Sanatra sang "I did it my way."  Yet the Christian culture should be lived to build up others and not to please ourselves.  We're to build others up even at the expense of our rights.

 5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

This does not come natural.  It is a gift from God.  If we do not have this attitude we should be praying and living toward that end.

 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

This is why we are here.  To bring praise to God.  Not to have the largest house or the best job or the most successful business or highest paid job.

 8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God’s truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed 9 and, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written:
   “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles;
   I will sing the praises of your name.”
 10 Again, it says,
   “Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people.”
 11 And again,
   “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles;
   let all the peoples extol him.”
 12 And again, Isaiah says,
   “The Root of Jesse will spring up,
   one who will arise to rule over the nations;
   in him the Gentiles will hope.”

Jesus lived His life with purpose.  He actively pursued the glory of His Father.

 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Only when I truly trust God do I overflow with hope.  As the world economy collapses around us and wars rage all over the globe we can have joy and peace and it only comes from Him.

God Bless.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Romans 14:13-23

Romans 14:13-23 NIV
 13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.

Here is where we as mature Christians are encouraged to freely give up our "rights" for the betterment of out weaker brothers.  I have found it odd that the greatest resistance I've received when I given up something is from fellow Christians.  As if they are so bound by what they actually get upset when another decides to stop.

 14 I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean. 15 If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died. 16 Therefore do not let what you know is good be spoken of as evil. 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval

I remember my college days the big battle was over Christian music.  Entire books were written of the evil of modern Christian music.  Yet today that very music is played in many churches as the norm.  Nothing is in itself evil.  Things are neutral.  They can be used for good or for evil.  The trick is you must find that balancing act between exercising your freedom in Christ AND not being a stumbling block for your brother.  It's not always easy, but you need to prayerfully find that balance.

 19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. 20 Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. 21 It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.

Mutual edification.  Where does the responsibility lie?  With the reader.  Me in this case and you in your case.  It is better to give up your "right" than to destroy the work of God.  One day we will stand before God and give an account.  I don't want to have God say, "You destroyed the faith of  ......... because you thought your .......... was too important to give up."

 22 So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. 23 But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.

Verse 23 is the kicker.  You do not know if something is right to do than don' t do it.  All our actions and activities need to come form faith and be motivated by love for our fellow believers.  I'm not there yet, but God is still working on me.

God Bless.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Romans 14:1-12

I really had a hard time coming to a stopping place.  This entire chapter ties together as one thought.  I chose the stopping point for today at the "Therefore" in verse 13.  So remember today's lesson when we get to the second half of this chapter.

Romans 14:1-12 NIV
 1 Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.  2 One person’s faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. 3 The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them. 4 Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand.

There are so many things in scripture that we are told to DO and there are so many things we are told NOT to do.  But much of our Christian walk is derived from an understanding of who God is and how we react to that understanding of who God is.

Here Paul references meat sacrificed to idols which he fleshed out fully in 1 Corinthians 8.  We no longer have that problem here so lets pick a modern one such as smoking.  No where in scripture does it say "Do not smoke.".  Yet many Christians says that Christians don't smoke.  Why?  Because of their understanding of the what the Bible says about our bodies being the temple of God and that the Holy Spirit dwells within us.  They combine that with current knowledge of health problems caused by smoking and they chose not to smoke as a form of worship to God. 

Guess what.  Some Christians are babies in the faith.  Or they have not come to that same conviction. These are God's servants, not ours.  Encourage and teach them, but don't judge them.


 5 One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. 6 Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. 7 For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone. 8 If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.

What you do, do it for the Lord.  I encourage you to not use this as and excuse for bad behavior.  Most of us to NOT do everything for the Lord.  We do what we want for our own pleasure and don't even bring God into the equation till we need Him. Our false belief that we ever don't need Him is a an entirely different problem.

 10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. 11 It is written:
   “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bow before me;
   every tongue will acknowledge God.’”

 12 So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.

God is the judge and he will measure a persons heart.  Not you.

There will be times that as a brother or sister in Christ you will need to bring something the attention of some in sin.  This is not judging the person, but their actions that have already been judged by God.  There is a difference though the one on the receiving end will not always see it at first.  Jesus was very specific on how we deal with that.  First look at yourself and then speak to your brother. Matthew 7:1-5  He was very specific of how you speak to your brother as well. Mathew 18:15-20

God Bless.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Romans 13:8-14

Romans 13:8-14 NIV
 8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

I am working my way out of the financial debt that I am in, but one debt will always be owed and that is the debt to love.

 11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.  

Paul says the time is short.  It's even shorter now.

12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.

It's time to decide who's side you are going to serve.

God Bless.

Monday, March 12, 2012

Romans 13:1-7

Romans 13:1-7 NIV
 1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

I have always had an issue with this.  I hate being told what to do.  I don't want anyone to be in authority over me.  But I have seen this in action when driving down the road and I see a cruiser.  If I am obeying the speed limit and not breaking traffic laws I could not care less that the cruiser is there.  However if I am speeding and driving recklace the is that moment of panic when I hope he did not see me.  Reguardless, God saw me.  We are to obey those in authority because God instituted government for our benefit.  Though there are times when I see our leaders acting in such I way that I question that.  Bear in mind that Paul lived in a society that hated him because he was a Christian.  Yet he still told us to obey.  The only time he disobeyed was when they told him to stop preaching the gospel.

We here in America have the right to protest. However should you practice civil disobedience in protest of "unjust laws" you may lose in court and the government has the right to punish you.


 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

How appropriate that this comes during tax season here in the US.  If you owe taxes, pay them.  Even Jesus paid the tax.  Mark 12:13-17

God Bless

Friday, March 9, 2012

Romans 12:14-21

Romans 12:14-21 NIV
 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

This is not easy.  Getting even feels so good.

 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

Empathize and meet people where they are.  When someone realizes that you care they will be open to what you have to say about Christ.

 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 

Pride is a key problem discord.  I'd go so far as to say it is the source for prejudice, discord and conceit.

17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.

There are days we think we know what to do. It is wise to seek counsel before acting.

 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

You are only responsible for your actions.  You could do everything right and the other party still refused to live in peace with you.  The is nothing else you need do at this point.

 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
   “If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
   if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. 

Especially after you have done everything to keep the peace, remember these words.  Your only responsible for your part. Revenge is NOT your part.

God Bless.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Romans 12:9-13

The next few verses are so packed with instructions, I'm going to take them in small groups.  Try to keep in mind God's mercy and His grace to us through Christ when we read these commands.  He's not going to leave us alone to do it by ourselves.

Romans 12:9-13 NIV
 9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

Hate evil.  America has been making evil look good and shunning people who are good.  It's getting harder to be a Christian in the USA.  Yet the church in America is foundering while the Church in the prosecuted countries are flourishing.  We need to cling to what is good because of what Christ has done for us.


10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Honoring another above ourselves is contrary to human nature.  It's very hard for to let someone go first.  However we have Christ's example to follow.  He is God, yet he died for us.

 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

This is tough.  Especially when things are going from bad to worse.  We must trust Him and keep serving.

 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

This hope is not the kind that says, "I hope I get a pony for Christmas."  It is a trust in a sure thing.  My hope is in the Lord, not government, not jobs or earthly relationships.  When one gets true grasp on that hope, then patience in affliction becomes easier because one realizes it's all going to work out for their benefit.

Prayer cannot be neglected.  I'm convicted that I have a poor prayer life.  I do pray periodically throughout the day, but I don't have a specific time that is set aside for prayer.  That needs to change.

13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Everything we have is from God. (Romans 11:36)  Since it all belongs to Him we need to share it with brothers and sisters in Christ that are in need.  Hospitality will be a natural outpouring of this sharing.

God Bless.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Romans 12:1-8

Romans 12:1-8 NIV
 1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

"Therefore".  Because we have studied the past 11 chapters we know what it's there for.  We know what God's mercy entails.  We have an understanding of why Paul is urging us.  We have a motivation, reason and an understanding of why we should offer our bodies as living sacrifices.  A sacrifice is dead, yet we are to be a living sacrifice.  In other words we sacrifice our will to do God's will.

The only way to transform and renew you mind is by the word of God.  Daily time in Scripture and in prayer is essential for us to know Him and it is only through our knowledge of him that we know of the power and promises available to us as Christians. (1 Peter 1:3-4)  If you say you do not have time I ask you to examine the amount of time you watch TV.  I did and it sickened me.  I rarely watch TV now.   Carve out a time in your day the belongs to God.  I adopted with limited success a "No Bible. No Breakfast." policy.  Try different times and don't let failure make you quit.

 3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.

In reading the last 11 chapters we learned how hopeless we are without God grace that was lavished upon us through Christ.  Without Him we are lost.  That should really sober us up.

 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. 

My hands cannot see and my ears cannot help me walk.  Each part has it's duty in moving this body out and about.  It is the same with the body of Christ.  Each of us is given a gift.  Find out what yours is, develop it and get to using it in the church God calls you to serve.

God Bless

Monday, March 5, 2012

Romans 11:25-36

Romans 11:25-36 NIV
 25 I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, 26 and in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written:
   “The deliverer will come from Zion;
   he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.
27 And this is my covenant with them
   when I take away their sins.”

 28 As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, 29 for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable. 30 Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, 31 so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God’s mercy to you. 32 For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all. 

My first thought was that all Israelites will be saved no matter when they died or their belief status.   That does not fit with what we have read in this book concerning belief, faith and confession.  Also I read in vs 32 where it says "everyone" and since I personally know a Jew who has accepted Christ, this passage cannot be speaking of every single person.  So I must conclude that this means the nation as a whole.  God will remove their blindness and the majority will come to Christ.


 33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
   How unsearchable his judgments,
   and his paths beyond tracing out!

34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord?
   Or who has been his counselor?”
35 “Who has ever given to God,
   that God should repay them?”
36 For from him and through him and for him are all things.
   To him be the glory forever! Amen.


God is God.  We will never fully know Him.  He does not need my advice.  There is nothing I have done that God owes me for.  Everything made is his and everything is to be used for his glory.  

God Bless.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Romans 11:11-24

Romans 11:11-24 NIV
 11 Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. 12 But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring! 

 13 I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry 14 in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them. 15 For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? 16 If the part of the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, then the whole batch is holy; if the root is holy, so are the branches. 

We who are not Jewish benefit from Israel's rejection.  Salvation has been offered to us in order to make them Jealous and to be brought back to God.

 17 If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, 18 do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. 19 You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” 20 Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. 21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.

God did not chose you because you are "better".  You did nothing to deserve or earn it.  Do not look down on the Jews who have rejected God.

 22 Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. 23 And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24 After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!

There is hope for those that turn away.  They can always come back to God.

God Bless.