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How Hope Helps Us
How Hope Helps Us
David Stafford
Christians are not immune to suffering, sorrow, and sickness, but there is a component that we have that the lost do not have. Christians have hope (Ephesians 2:12; 1 Thessalonians 4:13; 1 Corinthians 15:12-34; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:13-20; 1 Peter 1:3-5). Hope is expectation and desire. Life is difficult to say the least, but our hope can help us, especially when we experience the trials of life (James 1:2-12). Let’s consider how hope helps us.
Hope helps us to be patient. The word “patience” is translated from two Greek words in the King James Version. Let’s consider the first usage of patience. The Greek word makrothumia is translated as patience and longsuffering (Matthew 18:26; 1 Corinthians 13:4; James 5:7-8; 2 Peter 3:9). We as Christians are to be longsuffering and wait on the return of Christ when we suffer. James addressed the importance of this concept to Christians. He said, “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh” (James 5:7-8). Hope motivates us to be longsuffering when trials occur. We can patiently wait on the Lord’s return, because we have hope that He will (1 Corinthians 15:12; James 5:7).
Hope helps us to endure. The Greek word hypomonē is translated as patient, patience, or enduring (Romans 5:3-4; 15:4-5; James 1:3). We can endure, because we have hope of a bright future. We know that the present is bleak, but the future is bright. Paul said, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it” (Romans 8:18-25). We anticipate the return of Christ. In fact, this is what God’s grace teaches us. Paul said, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:11-14). Hope motivates us to persevere when we are persecuted. Hope motivates us to never give up that we may reap everlasting life (Galatians 6:7-9). Death is often what people fear the most. The faithful Christian, however, does not have to fear death, because he has hope of eternal life (Titus 1:2).
Hope helps us by comforting us. It is true that many people live with false hope, but this is not true for faithful Christians. Paul addressed the Thessalonian Christians who had a misunderstanding of what happened to their loved ones who died in the Lord. He said, “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Faithful Christians have comfort that their loved one will be resurrected to eternal life (John 5:28-29).
Hope helps us by encouraging us to rejoice. Persecuted Christians were commanded to rejoice when the trials occurred (James 1:2-5). We cannot rejoice without hope, but we can rejoice in hope (Romans 12:12). Paul was imprisoned when he said, “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). The Christian’s hope encourages him to look on the bright side of things.
Hope helps us by encouraging us to remain faithful. We will be presented holy, unblameable, and unreprovable if we are not moved away from the hope of the gospel (Colossians 1:23). Hope should encourage us not to move away from the bright future that is promised to us.
Hope helps us to look to the bright future that is promised to faithful Christians. Hope is not about what we see but what we expect to see (Romans 8:24-25). Hope will motivate us to have a proper perspective of life to patiently endure, live in comfort of what is expected, and remain faithful so that we will reap everlasting life (Galatians 6:9).
The Strength of the Christian's Hope
The Strength of the Christian's Hope
David Stafford
The word “hope” is often used to describe wishful thinking. Biblical hope, however, has nothing to do with wishful thinking. The word appears 130 times in the Scriptures. It is always important, therefore, that we allow the Bible to define its own terms. The common Greek word that is translated as “hope” is elpis which is from the word elpo, and it means “to anticipate, usually with pleasure; expectation (abstract or concrete) or confidence” (Strong). Hope can be defined as “expectation and desire.” Hope is not something we see but something we expect to see (Romans 8:24-25). The Christian has hope, and it is important for us to consider the strength of the Christian’s hope.
The Source of Hope
The strength of the Christian’s hope is possible because of Jesus Christ. There is no hope without Jesus Christ. Not only is He the Source of our hope, but He also is our Hope (1 Timothy 1:1). The strength of the Christian’s hope is rooted in Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. Paul addressed the theme of the resurrection to the Christians at Corinth and said, “Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (1 Corinthians 15:12-19). These Christians needed to be corrected and have hope of the resurrection of the dead. Peter addressed the strength of the Christian’s hope when he said, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:3-5). It does not get any better than having the hope of eternal life. This promise, however, is only applicable to faithful Christians. The wicked do not have hope. There is a contrast that consistently appears in the Scriptures, and that contrast is the hope of the righteous and the hopelessness of the unrighteous. Solomon addressed this contrast. He said, “The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish” (Proverbs 10:28). Additionally, he said, “The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death” (Proverbs 14:32). Solomon warned that the opportunity to have hope is impossible after death. He said, “When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth” (Proverbs 11:7). Likewise, this contrast was addressed to the Christians at Ephesus to emphasize their past and present. Paul said, “Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:11-13). Hope is a spiritual blessing that is found only in Christ. Paul said, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). It is immensely important that we be sure we are in the body of Christ, where Christ is the Savior (Ephesians 5:23).
The Stability of Hope
The strength of the Christian’s hope is possible because of the promises of God. Christians from a Hebrew background were addressed who wanted to return to a system that could not give them hope. In fact, the author emphasized the better system, which is the law of Christ. The law of Christ has a better hope (Hebrews 7:19). The author of Hebrews said, “Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (Hebrews 6:17-20). Paul addressed the stability of this hope when he said, “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began” (Titus 1:1-2). The Christian’s hope is stable, because it is built upon the promise of the immutable God, Who cannot lie.
The Christian’s hope is not wishful thinking; the Christian’s hope is built upon the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and the immutable counsel of God. The world can take many things away from us, but it cannot take away our hope. We must, therefore, cling to the hope we have and live faithful to He Who is our hope (1 Timothy 1:1).
Descriptions of the Word of God: It is Invaluable
Descriptions of the Word of God: It is Invaluable
The Bible is a prominent book. Most people are aware of its existence and influence on Christians. It remains the best-selling book of all time (Guinness World Records). Though most people have heard the Bible referenced in some fashion, that does not mean that everyone esteems it as God’s gift to mankind (2 Timothy 3:16-17; James 1:17). The critic and the Christian give two different assessments of God’s Word. The critic assesses God’s Word and suggests that it is an antiquated book, an uninspired book, or a flawed book. The faithful Christian gives an assessment that harmonizes with the psalmist’s assessment of God’s Word. David, the sweet psalmist of Israel (2 Samuel 23:1), gave his assessment of God’s Word in the 119th psalm. His assessment can be summarized with one word, and that word is invaluable.
The Word of God is invaluable, because it is a safeguard against sin. The psalmist said, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (Psalm 119:11). The word “hide” means “to hoard, to reserve” (Strong). Sin is our greatest threat (Romans 6:23). Therefore, it is paramount that we do whatever we can to avoid sin. We have no better safeguard against sin than God’s Word. God’s Word gives us what we need to resist sin (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3). The Word of God sufficiently supplies us with what we need to protect our hearts from sin, but we cannot defend ourselves from sin if we are unaware of what God considers sinful. We must read and study God’s Word to be informed of what God considers sinful before we can store it in our hearts (1 Timothy 4:13; 2 Timothy 2:15). If we hide God’s Word in our hearts, we will be aware of sin and be prepared to resist it. Let’s be sure our assessment harmonizes with the psalmist’s assessment and recognize that the Word of God is a safeguard against sin. We must remain in the Word of God daily that we might not sin against God.
The Word of God is invaluable, because it is more valuable than money. Many people prefer the riches of this world. Too many are more concerned about accruing wealth but have no concern for God’s Word. The psalmist said, “The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver” (Psalm 119:72). All the riches in the world could not compare to the Word of God. The psalmist prioritized God’s Word over the riches of this world. He said, “Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold” (Psalm 119:127). Let’s examine ourselves and ask ourselves if we choose the Word over the world. Are we more interested in chasing the next dollar or taking heed to God’s Word? We must esteem the Word of God above everything.
The Word of God is invaluable, because it is light in a world of darkness. Light often symbolizes righteousness, and darkness often symbolizes sin. The Word of God directs us in the path of righteousness. The psalmist said, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). We can walk in a way that seems right (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25), but the Word of God will direct us in the way that is right. The psalmist also said, “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple” (Psalm 119:130). The word “entrance” is from the Hebrew word pethach which means “opening.” This word is used to describe the explanation of God’s Word (Luke 24:31, 44-45). The Word of God gives understanding to those who want to learn the truth. May we realize that God’s Word will always direct us in the path we should go.
The Word of God is invaluable, because it is truth when everything else is false. The psalmist said, “Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way” (Psalm 119:104). He also said, “Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way” (Psalm 119:128). God’s Word is true from the beginning (Psalm 119:160), and all His commandments are truth (Psalm 119:172). Anything that is contrary to God’s Word is false. Postmodernism is a popular sociological belief that states that truth is relative. Truth is not relative; truth is concrete. If something is true, it cannot be false, and if something is false, it cannot be true. The psalmist understood that there is the way of truth, and there is the way of error. Do we love the truth and hate everything that is false? Do we despise false doctrine? We must always esteem the Bible above everything else, because it is the truth that will save us from our sins (John 8:32; James 1:18; 1 Peter 1:22-25).
The Word of God is invaluable, because it is satisfactory to the soul. The psalmist said, “How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psalm 119:103) Generally, we desire food that is sweet. Honey is sweet and satisfies the stomach, but the Word of God is sweeter and satisfies the soul. Too many assess the Bible as a nuisance or something to be dreaded. Some view God’s Word like a bitter medicine. The psalmist found satisfaction from God’s Word. Do we view God’s Word as sweet or bitter? If we do not find it to be sweet, it is time to examine ourselves.
The Word of God is invaluable to the one who understands its rightful role in our lives. The psalmist understood the importance of God’s Word and indicated the benefits he received from taking heed to it. We, too, must realize that the Word of God is invaluable and keep it close to our hearts (Psalm 119:11).
Source:
“Best-Selling Book.” Guinness World Records, https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/best-selling-book-of-non-fiction.
Descriptions of the Word of God: It is Infallible
Descriptions of the Word of God: It is Infallible
David Stafford
The Bible is more than a good book. It is more than a good book, because it the only book that originates with God. “All scripture is inspired (breathed) of God” (2 Timothy 3:16). God communicates to us through His Word which sufficiently supplies us with our spiritual needs (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Not only is God’s Word inspired, but His Word is infallible.
Humans are fallible. God, on the other hand, is infallible. He cannot make mistakes, and He cannot lie (Titus 1:2). The author of Hebrews said, “Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (Hebrews 6:17-20). It is against God’s nature to lie. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that the Bible is infallible since it comes from an infallible God. Critics have attacked the Bible for its veracity and authenticity, but the Bible has been consistently right when men have been wrong. The Bible is not a science textbook, but whenever scientific information is given, it is right. Heliocentricity is a field of science that the Bible teaches. Heliocentricity is the astronomical model that the Earth revolves around the Sun. This was not believed for many years. Nicolaus Copernicus, a sixteenth century astronomer, published a treatise on the heliocentric theory, a theory that was not commonly accepted in his lifetime (History.com). Many scientists of his day believed in the geocentric theory. The geocentric theory is the belief that the Earth is at the center of the universe. Heliocentricity was taught in the Scriptures long before it was widely accepted in the eighteenth century. The psalmist said, “Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them
hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat therof” (Psalm 19:4-6). Not only does this passage show that the sun is in its own orbit, but it also shows that we receive heat from the sun. Hydrology is a field of science that the Bible teaches. Solomon said, “All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again” (Ecclesiastes 1:7). This verse demonstrates that rivers flow into greater waters. The Bible mentions the hydrologic cycle. Solomon said, “If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth…” (Ecclesiastes 11:3). The water cycle was not fully understood until the nineteenth century (Oliver), but the Bible was right the whole time. Biology is a field of science that the Bible teaches. The Bible teaches that everything produces after its own kind (Genesis 1:11-12, 21, 24). The law of biogenesis is a scientific law that states two things: (1) life comes from life and (2) living things produce only living things after their kind (Apologetics Press). It is evident that this law is true. When has anyone ever seen a cow produce a chicken or a watermelon seed produce a cucumber? When has anyone seen life come from non-life as spontaneous generation teaches? No one ever will, because it is not the natural law. Everything comes from its own kind. Paul said, “All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds” (1 Corinthians 15:39). Perhaps, most scientists today agree that cows produce cows, watermelon seeds produce watermelons, and humans produce humans, but the Bible has always been right about this subject. Hematology is a field of science that the Bible teaches. Moses said, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul” (Leviticus 17:11). It is known today that red blood cells carry oxygen which shows that life is in the blood. Many physicians were unaware of this scientific fact until later in the nineteenth century. Bloodletting is the practice of removing blood with the aim of curing a medical condition, a practice that was used to treat people for thousands of years (Web Md). It is believed that bloodletting was a factor in the death of George Washington, the first president of the United States, who had about 80 ounces of his blood extracted in an eight-hour period (Zimlich). The Bible is infallible. The Word of God will not lead us in the wrong direction. If we can trust the Bible to be right about science, then we most certainly can trust it with our hearts to save us from our sins (1 Peter 1:22-25). Let’s put our trust in the infallible Word which comes from the infallible God (Proverbs 3:5; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18).
Sources:
"John Dalton." European Geophysical Society, www.egu.eu/egs/dalton.htm.
"Nicolaus Copernicus." History, www.history.com/topics/inventions/nicolaus-copernicus.
"Rachael Zimlich." Healthline, www.healthline.com/health/bloodletting.
"The Law of Biogenesis." Apologetics Press, apologeticspress.org/the-law-of-biogenesis-4441/.
"What Was Bloodletting All About?" WebMd, www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-to-know-history-bloodletting.
Descriptions of the Word of God: It is Inspired
Descriptions of the Word of God: It is Inspired
Most people are aware that the Bible exists. It is widely circulated, and it remains the best-selling book of all time (Guinness World Records). The Bible is easily accessible, and one can obtain a copy of it in written and electronic versions. The Bible is God’s Word. God chose to communicate to us through His Word. The author of Hebrews said, “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds” (Hebrews 1:1-2). Previously, God communicated in various ways, and then He communicated through His Son. Jesus promised the apostles that the Holy Spirit would guide them into all truth (John 16:13), and they would speak by the authority of Christ (1 Corinthians 14:37; 1 Thessalonians 4:8). Eventually, the miraculous age ceased, and the Word was completely written for us (1 Corinthians 13:10-13). There are descriptions of the Word of God that will help us appreciate what God has done for us and motivate us to look to His Word to be approved of Him.
Billions of books have been produced, and each book is the product of one or more authors. The Bible, however, does not originate with men; the Bible originates with God. Paul said, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The phrase “inspiration of God” is from the Greek word theopneustos which means “God-breathed.” It is important to emphasize that the Bible does not contain the Word of God; it is the Word of God, and every word is from God Himself.
Critics often attack the Bible by insisting that the Bible originates with men. Perhaps men insist that the Bible is a fictional book written by men as an attempt to eliminate accountability for their own actions. If the Bible is just a book that originates with men, then a person can live his life without the fear of any consequences. It is true that men were used in the process of inspiration, but they were not responsible for originating the words they spoke. The phrase “Thus saith the Lord” appears 415 times in the Scriptures. This phrase emphasizes the source of revelation. Micaiah, for example, was a prophet during Ahab’s reign as king of the Northern Kingdom. Micaiah was determined to speak for the Lord. “And Micaiah said, As the LORD liveth, what the LORD saith unto me, that will I speak” (1 Kings 22:14). The phrase “filled with the Holy Ghost” appears in the New Testament often, and it refers to inspiration (Luke 1:15; Acts 2:4; 4:8. 31). When someone was filled with the Holy Ghost, he was speaking the word of God. Peter said, “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (2 Peter 1:19-21). The phrase “private interpretation” does not give us liberty to make the Bible mean what we want it to mean. The phrase “private interpretation” is about the source of revelation. Though the prophets preached an important message, that message was not from them; it was from God. God used the prophets to reveal His will. God used the apostles to preach the message of salvation to others. Paul said, “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us” (2 Corinthians 4:7). The apostles were ambassadors for Christ and preached the message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20). They did not speak for themselves; they spoke for Christ. The apostles spoke by the authority of Christ. Paul said, “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 14:37). Paul said, “He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 4:8). If we reject something the apostles taught, we reject God, because the commandments that the apostles taught were from God Himself. The Bible cannot be the product of man, because if it was, it would not have a unified theme. Forty men from various occupations and positions were used over a period of approximately 1600 years from three different continents in the process of inspiration. David was a shepherd (1 Samuel 16:11), Peter was a fisherman (Matthew 4:18), Paul was a tentmaker (Acts 18:3), and Luke was a physician (Colossians 4:14). Yet, the Bible is harmonious with its theme that Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The Bible is not just a good book, but it is “the” Book from God that furnishes us to all good works (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
The Bible is inspired of God (2 Timothy 3:16). God, the giver of all good things, is the source of all Scripture (James 1:17). His Word is His gift to us to inform us of what we must do to be approved of Him (2 Peter 1:3). Let’s be thankful to God every day for revealing His will to us.
Source: Best-selling book | Guinness World Records
A Consideration of the New Creation: 2 Corinthians 5:17
A Consideration of the New Creation: 2 Corinthians 5:17
David Stafford
A new year reminds us of new opportunities and new goals. The greatest goal that a person can set for himself is preparing himself for heaven (John 6:44-45; 8:24; Acts 17:30; 8:37; 22:16) and pressing toward the goal of heaven. Paul said, “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14). A person begins setting this goal through becoming a new creation in Christ. Paul said, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). A consideration of the new creation is immensely important, because we need to ensure we have obeyed the conditions that are required to be a new creation in Christ.
Consider the PLAN-“If Any Man”
The phrase “any man” describes the universal plan to save mankind. Since sin is man’s greatest, common problem (Romans 3:23), salvation is man’s greatest, common need (Romans 1:16). Jesus died for everyone. The author of Hebrews said, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man” (Hebrews 2:9). Jesus’ blood is efficient to save everyone (1 John 2:2). Therefore, salvation is provided to all and accessed by all who obey the gospel. Paul said, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16). The Jew and Gentile could be saved and be a new creation in Christ. This was the mystery
that was revealed by the Holy Spirit to the apostles (Ephesians 3). Despite one’s social class, gender, or nationality, the gospel is for all, and the obedience to the gospel is what unites all (Mark 16:15-16; Galatians 3:26-29). Thanks be to God for His profound plan that enables anyone to choose to be a new creation in Christ!
Consider the PLACE-“In Christ”
The words “in Christ” refer to location. Location, location, location is a popular phrase that is not restricted to real estate. The phrase is applicable to how we become a new creation in Christ. A person cannot be located outside Christ and be a new creation. Therefore, it is paramount that he be in Christ! How does a person get into Christ? When an honest person hears the timeless truth of the gospel (Romans 10:17), believes in the Supreme Son (John 8:24), repents of his sins through godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10), confesses Christ as the Son of God (Acts 8:37), he then is ready to be baptized into Christ for the remission of his sins (Acts 22:26; Romans 6:3-4). Baptism is the final state in which one changes from sinner to saint. Paul said, “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27). Paul described the way that we become a new creation in Christ to the Romans when he said, “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:3-4). One cannot be in Christ without being baptized into His body. “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:13). The Corinthians were baptized into Christ (Acts 18:8), so why would anyone deemphasize its essentiality today? If a person chooses not to be baptized for the purpose of washing his sins away, he cannot be a new creation. It is vital that we ensure we have been baptized into Christ in order that our sins be washed away, because we must do so to be in Christ (Galatians 3:27; 1 Peter 3:21)!
Consider the PERFORMANCE-“Old Things are Passed Away, All Things are New”
There is a transition when one becomes a new creation. Old things refer to old attitudes, old aspirations, and old passions. They are passed away! He has a new attitude, a new anticipation, and a new aspiration to please God. Paul said, “Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him” (2 Corinthians 5:9). We as Christians must set our affections on things above and not on the earth (Colossians 3:2). We must realize that we are called to good works, and we must practice those good works zealously (Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 5:16; Titus 2:14). We must live every day for Jesus, our Master and Lord (John 13:13-14; 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16).
A consideration of the new creation enables us to reflect upon our choices. God wants all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9), but one cannot be saved and be a new creation without obeying God’s plan to save (Romans 1:16). Let us ensure we have done that which is necessary to be a new creation in Christ!
Five Reasons Why Christians Must Worship God on December 25, 2022
Five Reasons Why Christians Must Worship God on December 25, 2022
David Stafford
It is no secret that Christmas is on a Sunday this year. Many will exchange gifts and spend time with family. Undoubtedly, some Christians will make the choice to stay at home, thinking that it is excusable to forsake the assembly to celebrate this holiday at home. Christians have a responsibility to worship God, and we must take that responsibility seriously. Jesus said, “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:23-24). There are five reasons why Christians must worship God on December 25, 2022.
Sunday is the Lord’s Day (Revelation 1:10). There are seven days in a week, but there is only one day that we are authorized to worship God. Sunday is the authorized day to worship God (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1-3). Christmas is on a Sunday this year, but we do not get to pick and choose which Sunday is more important than the other. We are commanded to worship God fifty-two Sundays a year, and every Sunday is important to God! Sunday is not our day; it is the Lord’s Day. Paul remained in Troas so he could worship with the saints on Sunday. “And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days. And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight” (Acts 20:6-7). Why would Paul need to remain seven days if Christians were permitted to neglect worship on Sunday or worship on another day? Paul knew the importance of worshipping with the saints on the first day of the week, and he desired to worship with the saints on the first day of the week. We must be like Paul and worship the Lord on His day.
Forsaking the assembly is sinful. The author of Hebrews wrote to Christians who wanted to return to the law of Moses. Some of these Christians were forsaking the assembly. He said, “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:23-25). It is important that we assemble to worship, and the author makes it crystal clear that we cannot exhort one another if we are not at the assembly. If we choose to forsake the assembly, we not only neglect an opportunity to worship God, but we also neglect an opportunity to exhort and be exhorted. We as Christians must be convicted of what we believe. If we choose not to worship because of a holiday, then we cannot say that we are holding fast the profession of our faith. If we are living by faith, then we will worship God this Sunday.
God is worthy of worship. The word “worship” is from the Greek word proskuneō which means “to kiss the hand to (towards) one, in token of reverence” (Thayer). The English etymology of the word is also intriguing. The word “worship” is from the Old English word weorthscipe or worth-ship. These definitions inform us that worship is about “giving honor to whom honor is due.” God, the Creator of the Universe and of mankind (Genesis 1-2), is the only One worthy to be honored, and He is the only One authorized to determine how and when He is to be worshipped (Revelation 4:11). God chose Sunday to be the day to worship Him (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1-3). If we are going to honor and worship God acceptably, then we will assemble on Sunday to worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24).
We are authorized to remember Jesus’ death. We are not authorized to celebrate the birth of Christ; however, we are authorized to observe His death (Matthew 26:26-29; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). The disciples observed the Lord’s Supper on Sunday (Acts 2:42; 20:7). We must not shirk the opportunity to remember what our Lord did for us at Calvary.
We have an opportunity to continue in what we have learned. Three thousand souls obeyed the gospel of Jesus Christ, and they chose to continue in what they learned. “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). It was Sunday, and these Christians were together! If we choose not to worship this Sunday, how can we say that we are continuing steadfastly like they were? Let’s not shirk the opportunity to give God what He deserves and avoid an opportunity to learn more about how we are commanded to live for Him.
Is there anything more important than worshipping God on Sunday? Absolutely not! Christmas, family traditions, and anything else should not take priority over worshipping God (Matthew 6:33). God desires true worshippers (John 4:23), and He has chosen Sunday as the day for us to worship Him. Let’s make the choice to take our families to worship God this Sunday and every Sunday!
The Christian's Focus to Flee
The Christian's Focus to Flee
David Stafford
It is wise to flee from anything that will harm us. A poisonous snake can harm us. Asbestos can harm us. There is nothing, however, more harmful to us than sin. Peter said, “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation” (1 Peter 2:11-12). We as Christians are sojourners in this world. We aim to be in the eternal home of Heaven. Therefore, we must abstain from anything that will hinder us from being in the eternal home of heaven! Additionally, we must not participate in sin and give a false impression of how we as Christians are expected to live. It is paramount that we consider the Christian’s focus to flee from sin.
There are different terms that describe the importance of staying away from sin. Paul said, “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good” (Romans 12:9). The word “abhor” is from the Greek word apostugeō which means “to detest” (Strong). We will not stay away from sin until we first detest it. Paul said, “Abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22). The word “abstain” is from the Greek word apechomai which means “to hold oneself off, that is to refrain” (Strong). We are commanded to refrain from all forms of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22, ASV). The word “flee” is from the Greek word pheugō which means “to run away” (Strong). This word is used four times in the New Testament to describe the importance of running away from sin (1 Corinthians 6:18; 10:14; 1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:22). Let’s notice specific sins from which we are commanded to flee.
Flee from fornication (1 Corinthians 6:18). The Corinthians were fornicators before they became Christians (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). Fornication is from the Greek word porneia which means “illicit sexual intercourse” (Thayer). Evidently, there was a misconception among the Corinthians that fornication was acceptable and merely a fulfillment of natural desires like satisfying one’s hunger with food. Paul said, “Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power. Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's” (1 Corinthians 6:13-20). This misconception is even common in our society. People will justify fornication and indicate that they are just doing what is natural. Sexual intercourse, however, is only acceptable between one man and one woman who are married to one another. The author of Hebrews said, “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4). Joseph knew the importance of fleeing from this sin when Potiphar’s wife persistently enticed him to commit fornication. Joseph fled from her advances to avoid sinning against God (Genesis 39:7-12). Joseph prepared his heart to follow God, and we, too, must prepare our hearts to follow God. We must avoid adultery of the heart which often progresses to fornication (Matthew 5:27-30). We must remember that we surrendered our lives to Christ, and our bodies must be used to glorify Him!
Flee from idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14). The Corinthians were encouraged to learn from the sins that were committed by the Israelites as they wandered in the wilderness (1 Corinthians 10:1-11; c.f. Exodus 13:21; 14:22; 17:6; 32:6). Idolatry was one of the sins the Israelites committed, and it was a common sin that the Corinthians committed (1 Corinthians 10:7; c.f. Exodus 32:6). The best way to avoid sin is not get as close as we can to it, but the best way to avoid sin is to flee from it! Idolatry is a sin that still plagues Christians who are consumed with covetousness (Colossians 3:5). We must run away from materialism! We must run away from greed! Paul wrote by inspiration to Timothy, his son in the faith and a fellow preacher of the gospel (1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 4:1-5) to flee from false teaching and the love of money (1 Timothy 6:2-11). Let’s flee from idolatry of any kind and serve the Lord wholeheartedly (Matthew 22:36-40)!
Flee youthful lusts (2 Timothy 2:22). Timothy was commanded to flee youthful lusts (2 Timothy 2:22). The sins of fornication and idolatry fall into the category of youthful lusts. Pride (James 4:6) and a lack of self-control (Galatians 5:19-21) are additional sins that fall into the category of youthful lusts. We must flee from anything that will hinder us from being what God intended.
The adage is true that says, “If you play with fire, you get burned.” It is unwise to flirt with sin. If we flirt with sin, we are going to yield to it and displease God, Who has called us to holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16; 2:9). Let’s be determined to always flee from sin for the sake of our precious soul (Matthew 16:26)!
The Christian's Focus to Follow Part 1
The Christian's Focus to Follow Part 1
David Stafford
Fleeing from sin is an integral part of a Christian’s call to be holy. Peter addressed the subject of holiness and said, “Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:13-16). Not only is a Christian called to flee from sin, but he is also called to follow goodness. The word “follow” is from the Greek word diōkō which means “to flee, to pursue” (Strong). Let’s notice the Christian’s focus to follow.
Follow righteousness (1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:22). This term relates to our relationship to others. We must treat our neighbors rightfully. The grace of God teaches us how to follow God and live for God. Paul said, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:11-14). We are taught to live righteously. Every command of God is righteous (Psalm 119:172). If a Christian follows righteousness, he will follow impartiality. A Christian who pursues righteousness will pursue fair treatment to his neighbors and avoid discriminating his neighbors because of race, gender, or social class. James addressed the importance of avoiding favoritism to the rich (James 2:1-13). It is important that we, too, avoid this grievous sin and follow the royal law to love our neighbors as ourselves (James 2:8). Impartiality is not the only demonstration of righteousness. It is right to speak the truth to one another, be kind to one another, compassionate to one another, and forgive one another (Ephesians 4:25-32). We follow righteousness when we follow the Golden Rule. Jesus said, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets” (Matthew 7:12). If we want to know additional commands that relate to the just treatment to our neighbors, then we must delve into God’s Word, because every command of God is righteous (Psalm 119:172). We must study to be aware of God’s commandments and apply them to our lives (2 Timothy 2:15; Philippians 4:9; James 1:22-23). If we do what is right, then we will be right in the sight of God (1 John 3:7).
Follow contentment. Covetousness is a grievous sin that has ensnared many people (Joshua 7:10-26; James 4:1-4). Paul was aware of this grievous sin and commanded Timothy to flee covetousness (1 Timothy 6:10-11). Specifically, Paul said, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out” (1 Timothy 6:6-7). A Christian can pursue contentment, because he has everything he needs in Christ. Paul said, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). A Christian can pursue contentment, because the Lord will never leave him. The author of Hebrews said, “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:5-6). It is often that a person pursues covetousness, but a Christian must always pursue contentment.
Follow godliness. This term relates to our relationship to God. The grace of God also teaches us to live godly (Titus 2:11-12). Christians are commanded to live a transformed life. Paul said, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:1-2). It is our calling to present our bodies to God. It is the reasonable thing to do in view of God’s marvelous mercy. We must pursue whatever glorifies God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Peter said, “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:11). Our words and our actions must be aimed at glorifying God. We speak the truth and minister with the aim of glorifying God. We follow godliness when we worship God acceptably (John 4:23-24). We follow godliness when we dress modestly (1 Timothy 2:9). We follow godliness when we love God wholeheartedly (Matthew 22:36-37).
It is important for us to focus on following goodness. Righteousness, contentment, and godliness are merely a few examples of the things we should be following. Let us cleave to that which is good (Romans 12:9). May we focus our attention on following that which pleases God. To be continued.
The Christian's Focus to Follow Part 2
The Christian's Focus to Follow Part 2
David Stafford
Christians must be focused on pleasing God. Paul said, “Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:9-10). Christians are commanded to abhor that which is evil and cleave to that which is good (Romans 12:9). Therefore, it must be the Christian’s focus to follow goodness to fulfill the aim of pleasing God (Timothy 2:22). Let’s consider additional traits of goodness that we must follow.
Follow faith (1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:22). There are many misconceptions of faith. First, Faith is mistakenly defined as “a blind leap in the dark.” Second, faith is mistakenly defined as “seeing is believing.” The Bible defines faith for us. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is the foundation for what we as Christians do. It is the foundation upon which the Christians graces are built. Peter said, “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity” (2 Peter 1:5-7). Faith is not based on feelings; faith is based on evidence that we do not see. Paul said, “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Faith requires God to speak, man to hear, and man to believe (Romans 10:13-17). A Christian must not live by dead faith which lacks works (James 2:14-26). If a Christian follows faith without works, his faith is no better than a demon’s faith. James said, “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19). A Christian, however, must live by an active faith that is demonstrated by his works (James 2:18; Hebrews 11:3ff). This is the kind of faith that we must pursue.
Follow love (1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:22). The word “love” and the word “charity” are from the same Greek word agapē which means “love, that is, affection or benevolence; specifically (plural) a love feast” (Strong). This kind of love is selfless and sacrificial. This is the kind of love that we are commanded to give to God and our neighbors (Matthew 22:36-40). This is the kind of love that spouses must give to each other (Ephesians 5:22-33). If we truly love God and our neighbors, then we will follow love and demonstrate love. We follow this kind of love when we help those in need. John said, “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. Whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:16-18). This is what first-century Christians did to demonstrate their love for one another. They were in unity by what they professed and by what they practiced. These disciples were doers of the Word (James 1:22). “And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need” (Acts 2:44-45). Let’s follow this kind of love to one another.
Follow patience. The word “patience” is from the Greek word hupomonē which means “cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy” (Strong). A Christian must add patience to his faith (2 Peter 1:6) and be determined to persevere persecution (2 Timothy 2:3). We as Christians must not faint when we are weary. Paul encouraged the churches at Galatia to persevere persecution when he said, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:10). We will follow patience when we focus on the hope that we have (Romans 12:12; Hebrews 6:17-19; 1 Peter 1:3-8).
Follow peace. A person can either be a peacemaker or a troublemaker. A troublemaker is the talebearer who kindles strife (Proverbs 26:21-22) and the whisperer who separates chief friends (Proverbs 16:28). He causes contention and division. A Christian is not called to be a troublemaker, but he is called to be a peacemaker. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). Peace comes from the wisdom that is from above (James 3:17). If we desire to be more like Jesus, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), then we must follow peace.
Follow meekness. Meekness is sometimes mistakenly defined as “weakness;” however, it takes much strength to be meek. Meekness is often defined as “strength under control.” It is the spirit of meekness or gentleness that we must have when we restore a brother overtaken in a fault. Paul said, “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1). We must not attempt to restore a brother with the spirit of pride, but we must address him gently and consider that we are also capable of sinning. Let’s remember that Jesus described this attitude as one we must implement. He said, “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). We cannot follow Christ if we are not following meekness.
The Christian must be focused on pleasing God (2 Corinthians 5:9). God is pleased when we flee from sin and follow goodness. Let’s be determined to please God by following the things that harmonize with His will.
The Wisdom That Wins: A Contrast of Worldly Wisdom and Heavenly Wisdom
The Wisdom That Wins: A Contrast of Worldly Wisdom and Heavenly Wisdom
David Stafford
Founding father, Benjamin Franklin said, “The doors of wisdom are never shut.” Wisdom is always accessible and can be acquired. Wisdom is defined as “the soundness of an action or decision with regard to the application of experience, knowledge, and good judgment” (Oxford Dictionary). The Bible uses wisdom to describe the application of knowledge, and knowledge comes from reading and studying God’s Word (1 Timothy 4:13; 2 Timothy 2:15). There are two types of wisdom. Worldly wisdom originates with men, and heavenly wisdom originates with God (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). Philosophy literally means “love of wisdom.” We must love and pursue the wisdom that wins, which is the wisdom that originates from God (James 1:5). It is conducive for us to examine a contrast between worldly wisdom and heavenly wisdom, and we must examine ourselves whether we are choosing the wisdom that wins.
Worldly wisdom originates from the created; heavenly wisdom originates from the Creator (Genesis 1:26-27). Heavenly wisdom excels, because the knowledge is derived from the One Who spoke the universe into existence. The psalmist said, “Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast” (Psalm 33:8-9). God made us in His image. “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them” (Genesis 1:26-27). The Creator of mankind knows what is best for His creation! As a result, we should fear Him. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 9:10). When we have reverence for God and recognize God as the source of true wisdom, then we will obtain wisdom from His Word. When we fail to understand difficulties in our lives, we do well to direct our needs to God. James said, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him” (James 1:5). We cannot err if we are gaining knowledge and applying that knowledge from the Creator (James 2:18)!
Worldly wisdom originates from mortal men; heavenly wisdom originates from the eternal God. Men and women are mortal. Men and women have not always existed. God, however, has always existed. The psalmist said, “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God” (Psalm 90:2). There has never been a time in which God did not exist!
Worldly wisdom originates from fallible men; heavenly wisdom originates from the infallible God. People are capable of mistakes. God, however, is incapable of mistakes. In fact, it is impossible for God to lie (Hebrews 6:18; Titus 1:2). As a result, God is always right. Why seek wisdom from someone who could be wrong? Why not seek wisdom from He Who cannot be wrong!
Worldly wisdom is finite; heavenly wisdom is infinite. People have limitations. We can only react to what we have learned. God, on the other hand, is the great Counsellor. Paul described this when he said, “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen” (Romans 11:33-36). Men are capable of learning, and we must increase learning (Proverbs 1:5). God is incapable of learning. God knows all things. No one can outsmart God or teach Him something He does not already know! Why would we seek wisdom from men who are limited by what they have learned? Why not seek wisdom from He Who knows all things!
Worldly wisdom involves inactivity; heavenly wisdom involves activity. There are individuals who claim to be wise, yet their actions do not demonstrate that they are wise. James said, “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13). Heavenly wisdom teaches us to practice what we profess as Christians (James 1:22; 2:14-26).
Worldly wisdom results in unhappiness; heavenly wisdom results in happiness. Men may attempt to find happiness from the world, but they will always be left with a void that can never be filled by human philosophies. Heavenly wisdom will bring satisfaction. Solomon said, “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding” (Proverbs 3:13). Heavenly wisdom impacts the soul which is most precious of all (Matthew 16:26)!
Worldly wisdom results in strife; heavenly wisdom results in peace. The wisdom of this world focuses on selfishness which results in strife (James 3:14-16). The wisdom that is from above focuses on selflessness and peace. Solomon said, “Her [wisdom] ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace” (Proverbs 3:17). James said, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace” (James 3:17-18).
Worldly wisdom is inferior to heavenly wisdom. God, the Creator of the Universe (Genesis 1-2), knows what is best for us. Let’s seek the wisdom that He provides from His inspired Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17)!
Reactions to the Gospel Message Part 1
Reactions to the Gospel Message Part 1
David Stafford
The Word of God is designed to convict a person of his sins. The Hebrews writer said, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). God chose the foolishness of preaching (1 Corinthians 1:18-31) to convict one of his sins and give him an opportunity to know how those sins will be absolved (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). The preaching of the gospel of Christ will incite a reaction from the hearer. That reaction will reflect the heart of the hearer (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 12:35). There are two major reactions to the gospel message. One will either receive the Word, or he will reject it. It is paramount that we consider the role of the Spirit as it relates to conviction and examples of individuals who received the message.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Conviction
The work of the Holy Spirit is accomplished through the preaching of the gospel. Jesus spoke to His disciples prior to His arrest, trial, and crucifixion to encourage them about the Holy Spirit’s work through their preaching. He said, “But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you. But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart. Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on me; Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you” (John 16:4-15). The word “reprove” is from the Greek word elegcho which means “to confute, admonish; convict, convince, tell a fault, rebuke, reprove” (Strong). The work of the Holy Spirit began on the day of Pentecost when Peter preached the gospel to the Jews who crucified the Christ. Peter said, “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? (Acts 2:36-27). The Spirit’s role in conviction continues today when the gospel is preached.
Examples of Receiving the Word
The Jews on the day of Pentecost were convicted of their sins, and they wanted to know what to do to have their sins washed away (Acts 2:37). “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation” (Acts 2:38-40). It is important to notice that there was a responsibility expected on the part of the hearer. They were commanded to repent and be baptized for the remission of their sins. They were told to save themselves. How did they react? They did not say, “That’s just your interpretation.” They did not say, “I know what you said, but I want to be saved a different way.” They heard the Word, accepted it as truth, and they obeyed it. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41).
A eunuch from Ethiopia was travelling from Jerusalem back to Ethiopia when the angel of the Lord commanded Philip to meet this eunuch (Acts 8:26-27). Philip went to meet the eunuch who was reading from the prophet Isaiah (Acts 8:28-34). Philip took the opportunity to preach the gospel to him. “Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus” (Acts 8:35). The eunuch reacted with urgency when he said, “See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? (Acts 8:36) The eunuch gladly received the Word of God and wanted to obey God immediately! He was baptized for the remission of his sins that same day after making the great confession (Acts 8:37-39).
The work of the Holy Spirit is accomplished whenever the gospel is preached (1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5). Sin is exposed, and the hearer is presented with a choice to either receive the Word or reject it. Every person must examine himself and consider whether he has received the Word like 3,000 did on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:41), or has he rejected the message by delaying what he needs to do to be saved.
Reactions to the Gospel Message Part 2
Reactions to the Gospel Message Part 2
David Stafford
The Word of God is alive, active, immutable, and indestructible (Psalm 119:89; Hebrews 4:12; 1 Peter 1:22-25). It continues to convict a person of his sins whenever the gospel is preached (John 16:7-15; 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5; 2 Timothy 4:2). God’s Word will incite a reaction from the hearer whenever the gospel is preached. That reaction will reflect the heart of the hearer (Luke 8:4-15). One will either receive the Word, or he will reject it. It is paramount to consider one more example of receiving the Word and several examples of individuals who rejected the Word.
Lydia-Another Example of Receiving the Word
The vision that Paul witnessed in Troas convinced him that he, Silas, and Luke needed to preach the gospel in Macedonia (Acts 16:8-10). They travelled to the seaport city of Neapolis, and then they travelled the Roman road to the city of Philippi (Acts 16:11). Luke records a conversion of a woman sojourning in that area. “And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us” (Acts 16:13-15). Lydia had a heart of readiness and gave her undivided attention to hearing the gospel. Lydia heard the Word of God (Romans 10:17), received the Word, and she was baptized for the remission of her sins.
Examples of Rejecting the Word
God gives us the ability to choose (Joshua 24:15), and it is possible to reject the Word of God. Stephen preached the gospel to Jews who were convicted of their sins. Stephen included a discourse of Hebrew history to conclude that they did not learn from their ancestors. He said, “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it” (Acts 7:51-53). Notice their reaction. “When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth” (Acts 7:54). There was not a difference in the message that Peter and Stephen preached; the difference was the heart of the hearer. The 3,000 had a heart of readiness to obey God, but the Jews Stephen addressed had a heart of stubbornness. The work of the Holy Spirit was still accomplished even when the Jews resisted it, rejected it, and stoned Stephen to death (Acts 7:54-60).
Paul had the opportunity to preach the gospel to Felix, the governor and his unlawful wife, Drusilla. Luke records, “And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee” (Acts 24:24-25). The gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4), but the gospel also encourages the lost to obey the gospel and conform their lives to following Jesus (Titus 2:11-15). Felix was rebuked for his indulgence and was warned of the Judgement, a day that he would answer for his sins (2 Corinthians 5:10). Felix trembled at the rebuke, but he did not react with urgency to be right with God. Felix rejected the Word by ignoring the brevity of life (James 4:14) and delaying what needed to be done immediately. Sadly, many react to the gospel just like Felix. How many have procrastinated to become a Christian, because they believe they are too young and have plenty of time to become a Christian? How many believe there will be a more convenient time to obey God? It is always wise to obey God while there is an opportunity. Time is too uncertain to shirk the opportunity to become a Christian.
Paul had the opportunity to preach the gospel to King Herod Agrippa. Paul made a defense for the allegations against him, but he also described his conversion to King Agrippa (Acts 26:1-27). “Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:28). King Agrippa rejected the Word by not allowing the Word to fully persuade him to become a Christian. Herod Agrippa was convicted, but he allowed something to keep him from becoming a Christian. He may have not wanted to make the sacrifice of separating from Bernice, or he may have not wanted to sacrifice friendships or political alliances. There are many like Agrippa who are almost persuaded to become a Christian. A person who almost wins the race does not win the race, and a person who almost becomes a Christian does not become a Christian. Almost is not enough.
God is satisfied when His Word is preached. He wants all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), but He knows many will reject His offer to save them from their sins. The work of the Holy Spirit is accomplished even when people reject the Word (John 16:7-15). People are convicted of their sins, and they must make a choice upon their conviction. Every person must consider whether he has received the Word (Acts 16:14-15) or rejected the message by delaying what he needs to do to be saved.
Why Was Abraham the Right Example of Faith to the Jews?
Why Was Abraham the Right Example of Faith to the Jews?
David Stafford
The statement, “The just shall live by faith” appears four times in the Scriptures (Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38). Obedient faith requires God to speak, man to hear, and man to obey (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11). Abraham was justified by faith (Romans 4:16; Hebrews 11:8, 17-19; James 2:21-23), and he was alluded as an example of faith in the book of Romans (Romans 4). Many people could have been used as an example of faith (Hebrews 11), but why was Abraham the right example of faith to the Jews? There are three reasons why Abraham was the right example of faith to the Jews.
Abraham: An example to prove that all men and women have been justified by faith.
The thesis of Romans must be emphasized to answer the question “Why Was Abraham the Right Example of Faith to the Jews? The book of Romans is a treatise on justification. The theme of Romans is stated in the beginning of this book when Paul said, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:16-17). The Patriarchal, Mosaic, and Christian dispensations had different laws that were expected to be obeyed by those who lived under those dispensations, but they all had something in common. Men and women have always been justified by faith. This concept is emphasized in the phrase “from faith to faith.” The quotation Paul mentioned was from Habakkuk who preached that the just survived Babylonian captivity though living by faith (Habakkuk 2:4). Why was justification by faith an important concept that had to be reinforced to the Jews? The Jews were given the oracles of God, and they boasted in having the law (Romans 3:1-2). Though they had the law, they were ignorant of the law’s intention (Romans 10:4; Galatians 3:24-25). The law pointed out sin (Romans 3:20; 4:15; 7:7; 1 John 3:4), and the law was unable to justify a man. Paul said, “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law” (Romans 3:28). Abraham was not justified by anything he did in the flesh. Paul said, “What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God” (Romans 4:1-2). If Abraham was justified by works, then he could boast and demand justification. Abraham, however, was not justified by works of merit, but he was justified by obedient faith.
Abraham: An Example of Someone Respected of the Jews and Gentiles
The Jews were aware of the Abrahamic promise God made to him at Ur of the Chaldees. God made this promise in the early life of Abraham when his name was still Abram. He said, “Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed” (Genesis 12:1-3). Abraham was the best example of faith, because the Jew and Gentile revered him. The Jews boasted of being descendants of Abraham (John 8:33) and considered him their father. Jesus rebuked them for their failure to live as Abraham lived (John 8:39-40). Paul alluded to Abraham to demonstrate the need to live like Abraham who was justified by faith.
Abraham: An Example Who Lived Before the Law of Moses
Abraham was approved of God and was justified by faith. Paul said, “For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness” (Romans 4:3). This is a quotation from the Old Testament when Abraham was told that he would have descendants that would proceed from his seed line (Genesis 15:5-6). When was Abraham justified by faith? When did he live? Abraham did not live under the Mosaic dispensation; he lived under the Patriarchal dispensation. Abraham was justified by faith before the law of Moses. The Jews had a convoluted idea that circumcision was the sign of justification, but justification was not limited to the Jews. Paul said, “Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised” (Romans 4:8-12). Abraham was justified by faith approximately 29 years before he was circumcised (Genesis 17:4). Abraham was strong in the faith (Romans 4:19-20), because he trusted in the promises of God.
Abraham was the right example to defend the proposition that all people are justified by faith. He lived before the law of Moses when he was justified by faith (Romans 4:8-12). If we want to be justified like Abraham, then we must live by faith and trust in the promises of God (Romans 4:19-25).
Three Reasons Why the Church of Christ is Not a Denomination
Three Reasons Why the Church of Christ is Not a Denomination
David Stafford
There are approximately 45,000 denominations in the world, and there are people who assert that the church of Christ is among that number (apologeticsindex.org). This is a misconception that people have of the church of Christ. Misconceptions must be handled with the Word of God that supplies us with all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). There are three reasons why the church of Christ is not a denomination.
The Church of Christ is Pre-denominational
The word “denomination” is commonly defined as “a recognized autonomous branch of the Christian Church” (Oxford Dictionary). The church of Christ is not a branch of the church; she is the church that was established on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). She is the church that was prophesied centuries earlier, and she is the singular church that Jesus promised to build (Matthew 16:18). There were many prophesies that were fulfilled on the day of Pentecost that pertain to Christ and the church, yet none of those prophesies ever indicated that denominations were a part of God’s plan for the church (Joel 2:28-32—Acts 2:16-21,39; Psalm 16:8-11—Acts 2:25-27, 31; 2 Samuel 7:12; Psalm 89:3-3-4; 132:1—Acts 2:30; Psalm 110:1—Acts 2:34-35). There were Jews who obeyed the gospel on the day of Pentecost and became members of the church Jesus promised to build. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved” (Acts 2:41, 47). When we inform someone that we are a Christian, we often hear, “What denomination are you?” These Christians did not ask one another, “What denomination are you?” Denominations did not exist when the church was established. They were simply added to the church Jesus purchased with His blood (Acts 20:28). People can become a member of that same church today that precedes man-made denominations.
The Church of Christ is Non-denominational
The term “non-denominational” is a misnomer. The term “non-denominational” is often used to describe a religious group that is not affiliated with a particular denomination, but many of these religious organizations derive their doctrines from a combination of denominations. Denominations differ from one another in doctrine. For example, the Methodist denomination has a doctrine that is distinct from the Baptist doctrine. The church of Christ is non-denominational, but it is not a misnomer. Faithful members of the church of Christ do not adhere to the doctrines of men; faithful members of the church of Christ only adhere to the doctrine of Christ (1 Timothy 4:13, 16). John said, “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds” (2 John 9-11). Denominations have religious headquarters, conventions, and creeds that shape what they believe. For example, members of the Southern Baptist denomination live by The Standard Manual for Baptist Churches by Edward T. Hiscox and tenets enacted by the Southern Baptist Convention. The headquarters for the church of Christ is in heaven, where Christ sits on the right hand of God (Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 1:18; Hebrews 1:3). The Word of God is already settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89). That same indestructible, inherent, and inspired Word is the same standard by which we live (1 Peter 1:22-25; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:18-21). The church of Christ is not a man-made name. It is one of many authorized names used to describe those who belong to Christ (Acts 11:26; Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 12:27; Ephesians 1:22-23; 3:10-11).
The Church of Christ is Anti-denominational
The church of Christ was designed of God and executed by Christ. It was the eternal plan to save mankind from his sins (Ephesians 3:10-11). Jesus loved the church so much that He died for her (Ephesians 5:25). Jesus has one bride, and that is the church of Christ. He is also the head of the church, which is His body (Ephesians 1:22-23). There is one body. Therefore, there is one church (Ephesians 4:4). Faithful Christians are anti-denominational, because division is sinful. Jesus prayed for unity in the garden of Gethsemane. He said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me” (John 17:20-23). The church of Christ is anti-denominational, because denominations speak different things. Denominations teach that many “faiths” will be in heaven, but there is only one faith (Ephesians 4:5). Christians at Corinth were rebuked for following men and admonished to all speak the same thing (1 Corinthians 1:10-17). If it was possible for them to speak the same thing, it is possible for us to speak the same thing.
The church of Christ is not a denomination. Men and women became Christians in the first century without man-made names (Acts 2:41; 8:12; 18:8). It is our plea that more people will depart denominationalism and simply become a Christian.
Reasons Why Calvinism Misrepresents God Part 1
Reasons Why Calvinism Misrepresents God Part 1
David Stafford
It is safe to assume that most people do not want to be misrepresented. God, too, does not want to be misrepresented. God will never be misrepresented when there is a proper understanding of His character. The truth of God’s character is found in His Word. The sum of God’s Word is truth (Psalm 119:160, ASV). If we want to avoid misrepresenting God, we must take heed to His Word. Any doctrine that misrepresents God is false. Calvinism is a doctrine that misrepresents God. There are reasons why this doctrine misrepresents God.
Calvinism misrepresents God when it states that God is so Sovereign that He is completely responsible for who is lost and who is saved. The Bible informs us that God is Sovereign. He spoke the universe into existence (Genesis 1-2; Psalm 33:6-9; 148:5-6), but since God is Sovereign, He has the authority to legislate how someone is saved. God is responsible for grace, mercy, and longsuffering (Genesis 6:8; Titus 3:5; 2 Peter 3:9). He has done His part through providing us His Son and His Word which equips us to all good works (John 3:16-17; Romans 5:8; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). We must do our part in responding to His love. We cannot demonstrate our love to God if salvation is wholly dependent upon Him. Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).
Calvinism misrepresents God when it states that infants are born totally depraved and inherit the sin of their parents. The Bible informs us that children are born sinless and do not inherit the sin of their parents. God is misrepresented, because He made man upright. Solomon said, “Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions” (Ecclesiastes 7:29). Paul observed that he was born sinless and lived that way until a certain time in his life. He said, “For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died” (Romans 7:9). Paul knew that sin was in his life when he was aware of transgressing the law (1 John 3:4). When the disciples were concerned about who would be the greatest in the kingdom, Jesus taught them the importance of humility. “And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:2-9). If children are born depraved, why would Jesus use a child as an example to teach His disciples to be humble? Calvinism eradicates the concept of accountability. God expects us to be accountable for our own actions. The prophet Ezekiel said, “The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him” (Ezekiel 18:20). God has emphasized accountability repeatedly in is Word (Ezekiel 18:20; Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 3:23).
Calvinism misrepresents God when it states that God individually chose people to be saved before the foundation of the world, because man could not choose himself. God has given every accountable person the ability to choose his or her destiny. The children of Israel were presented with two choices. They could choose life by obeying the commands of God or choose death by disobeyed the commands of God (Deuteronomy 28; 30:19-20). Joshua challenged his people to make the right choice to serve God. He said, “Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:14-15). If God chose certain people to be saved and certain people to be lost, that would make Him a respecter of persons. The Bible teaches that God is not a respecter of persons (2 Chronicles 19:7; Acts 10:34; Romans 2:11). God is misrepresented, because He wants all people to be saved (Ezekiel 18:31; 33:11; 1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9). It is inconsistent for God to select certain people to be saved if He wants all people to be saved. Salvation does depend on a person’s willingness to obey God (Acts 10:34-35; Romans 1:16; 6:16-18; Hebrews 5:8-9; Revelation 22:17). Calvinism misrepresents God’s efforts to save mankind. Man is not lost, because God failed; man is lost, because he failed to respond to the love of God by obeying the gospel (Romans 5:8; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
Calvinism is a doctrine that must be rejected, because it misrepresents God. It is a doctrine that must be hated, because it is not God’s way; it is the false way (Psalm 119:104, 128). God will never be misrepresented when we read, study, meditate, and stand by His Word that supplies us with everything we need (1 Thessalonians 4:13, 2 Timothy 2:15; Psalm 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 Peter 1:3).
Reasons Why Calvinism Misrepresents God Part 2
Reasons Why Calvinism Misrepresents God Part 2
David Stafford
Any doctrine that misrepresents God is false doctrine. For example, first-century Christians were informed that scoffers would misrepresent God by asserting that He would not keep His promise concerning the return of Christ (2 Peter 3:1-8). Peter corrected that misrepresentation of God when said, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up” (2 Peter 3:9-10). Previously, it was considered that Calvinism misrepresents God. There are additional reasons why Calvinism misrepresents God.
Calvinism misrepresents God when it states that Christ only died for the elect. This tenet is called “Limited Atonement.” God is misrepresented when it is suggested that the blood of Christ is only sufficient to save the elect. The Hebrews writer said, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man” (Hebrews 2:9) (emphasis, mine). John said, “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:1-2). Paul exhorted Christians to pray for public leaders, because God wanted them to be saved, too. He said, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time” (1 Timothy 2:1-6). Why would Paul exhort Christians to pray for public leaders like Nero, a persecutor of Christians, if Jesus did not die for him? It is inconsistent to suggest that Christ only died for the elect when the gospel is for all. Paul said, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16). Mark 16:15-16). Why bother preaching if Jesus only died for those God has already chosen to be saved?
Calvinism misrepresents God when it states that He utilizes a direct operation of the Holy Spirit to the elect to make him right with God whether he accepts it or not. The Holy Spirit has never directly operated on a person’s heart. Lydia’s conversion at Philippi is often used as an attempt to support this doctrine. “And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us” (Acts 16:14-15). Calvinists do not consider the question “how?” How was Lydia’s heart opened? Her heart was not directly opened by the Holy Spirit. Her heart was opened when she heard the Word of God. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17). Lydia was presented with a choice when she heard the truth. She could either reject the message or receive it. She chose to obey the truth. She was baptized for the remission of her sins. The Word of God must be obeyed to receive salvation (John 3:3-5; 1 Peter 1:22-25).
Calvinism misrepresents God when it states that a Christian can never be lost. God is misrepresented, because this tenet denies God’s conditional promises. The Israelites were informed that they would receive blessings if they obeyed God, but they would receive cursings if they disobeyed Him (Deuteronomy 28). It was possible for them to apostatize, and it is possible for Christians to apostatize (Galatians 5:4; 2 Peter 2:20-21). Paul said, “Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off” (Romans 11:22). Paul warned the Gentiles that they would be cut off if they did not continue in the goodness of God. Salvation does depend on a person’s obedience to God’s will (Matthew 7:21-23; Romans 6:16-18; Hebrews 5:8-9).
Calvinism misrepresents God. The god of Calvinism is not the God of the Bible. God does not want us to perish (Ezekiel 18:31; 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9). He desires soul-salvation for everyone (1 Timothy 2:4), and He has provided us with everything we need to be right with Him (1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). The god of Calvinism suggests that we have no choice, but the God of the Bible wants us to choose Him (Joshua 24:15). He wants us to make the choice to love Him and show our love by obeying His commandments (John 14:15; 1 John 2:3-6). Let’s ensure that we reject any doctrine that misrepresents God and stand by His Word which accurately represents Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
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