City Pastor With Attitude

Phillipians 1: Citizens of the Kingdom

2007-06-25T20:22:00.000-04:00

We continue our series on Philippians. The letter, written from a nasty dungeon in Rome where Paul was chained to an imperial guard. Last week we saw Paul’s concern was for the gospel. He believed it to be an unconquerable gospel. This week we are going to look at unity. Paul had been describing his own personal situation before, now it leads him to talk about the Philippians and to exhort them in their behavior.

Phil 1:27-30 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved-and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

I. CITIZENS OF THE KINGDOM
Phil 1:27-30 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.

The word that is translated “conduct” is literally "to act as a citizen." The Philippians were very proud of being citizens of Rome, but Paul wanted them to focus on a different citizenship.

A citizenship has standards of conduct. Rome had certain standards for its citizens. But Paul persuades them that their greater citizenship is of the Kingdom of God. There are standards for Kingdom citizenship, and we should be even more aware of living up to those. We should be aware of our higher citizenship. We don’t behave to get into heaven, we behave as a result of who we ARE-- citizens of a new kingdom.

What does Paul expect of them?

Phil 1:27 Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel

Paul here begins to talk about specifically what he wants from the Philippians. Living as citizens of the Kingdom is going to result in two things:

Standing firm in one spirit

and working as one man for the faith of the gospel.

Notice the word "one" appearing twice. Obviously Paul was concerned about the unity of this church. He gives them two commands. First. …

A. "Stand firm in one spirit"-

He does not want them to play down their Christianity but to stand fast in it--to hold firm. He does not want them to be swayed by the popular culture--but to be persevering in the faith in the face of all opposition. And he wanted them to do this in one spirit. Meaning that they should be united in thought and mind and purpose with regards to the gospel.

What does he mean by this? Why did they need to stand firm? Obviously there was factors that were tempting them to shrink back in fear. There was opposition that would sway them. Yet unity was key to standing firm. The next phrase is

B. "Working Together for the faith if the gospel.”

The emphasis is on Teamwork- Paul insists that they stand as one man for the faith--without being frightened by opposition. See, we have to realize, that Paul expected opposition for the true Christian life. He said that we must stand in the face of opposition and persevere in it.

Unity is essential in such an endeavor.

Unity illustration: united we stand , divided we fall. Paul did not want the church to be arguing amongst itself. Remember that later Paul will address two women who were quarrelling at that time.

Phil 4:22 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord.

The word he uses in 1:27 is sunathlo which literally means striving together as athletes. Everybody has a role to play in the church. We need to

Are you conducting yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel? Do you consider your first citizenship being of the Kingdom?

Are you striving for unity and teamwork in the body of Christ?

C. Confidence in Light of suffering.
28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved-and that by God.

Paul encourages the believers not to shrink back from the fight. The fact of their perseverance and boldness in the face of opposition will prove or be sign to the opposers that they will be destroyed.

One might be reminded of the martyrdom of Stephen, and how his boldness led to the salvation of others. The testimony of boldness always is impressive to unbelievers--but it is also an encouragement to the church that they are saved, because our boldness is supernatural.

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

1. The Battles prove you are saved. Suffering for the gospel is proof that they belong to Christ because this is what was appointed them. The presence of conflict is a privilege. The suffering has been granted by God. We don’t like to think of the privilege of suffering, but we realize that it is, we can look for the value of it in promoting the gospel.

2. We need to remember that others are going through the same struggles. We know that we are not alone in our struggles. Others are struggling through similar things. God uses our struggles to help us grow .

Do we see the redemptive value of trials and how your boldness in them will work for the sake of the gospel?

Remember you are a citizen of the kingdom of God. You are a new creation. Act like it by standing firm in your faith, working together as a team for the promotion of the gospel, and being confident in the light of persecution that God knows what He is doing.

Philippians 1: Standing Firm To the End

2007-06-20T06:15:00.000-04:00

Philippians 1: 18 Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.

Now we see the great design of Paul’s life and that is to exalt Christ.

Paul again mentions his rejoicing state of mind. Yet, here he is rejoicing in his two sources of power:

A. Prayer and the Spirit of Jesus
Paul describes his desire for the prayers of the saints, demonstrating his humility and his dependence on them.

Again Paul shows his need for the spirit of Jesus to help him.

Paul says that he is confident that through these two agencies that God will deliver him. The deliverance refers to God’s confidence that through these two agencies he will be released. He will elaborate on this more in a few verses.

It is remarkable that through Paul’s closeness with God, that it would be revealed to Him that he in fact would be released. Paul does not brag about this. We remember other times when Paul had been given a revelation--such as when he was on the ship and the Lord warned that though they would be shipwrecked, that none would be killed.

Do you believe in the power of prayer and in the power of Christ to really pray?

B. It’s all about glorifying Jesus.
Phil 1:20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

Paul’s ultimate aim or goal is neither life nor death. On the contrary, life or death are both inconsequential to him. The ultimate goal is that Christ is exalted in his body through either. This was his expectation. Either way it was all about Jesus. His only concern is that he would not let Jesus down by lacking in courage in the proclamation of the gospel. That he would be worthy of the calling he had received.

Is your main concern faithfulness to the gospel?

Paul said that to live was all about serving and glorifying Jesus--and to die it was better, because he would be in Christ’s presence, away from pain and every infirmity, and he would be better off.

Any hope of annihilationism is annihilated here. There is not a cessation of consciousness upon death but you will either be in Gods’ presence or not. If the decision was up to Paul, which would he choose? Incredibly even Paul's choice of life or death is made based on other people’s needs and not his own. Because he sees the need of the Philippians, he knows that God is going to keep him around for a while to be a blessing to them.

Paul evidently has a confident expectation about the future.

Do you have a confident expectation about the future? Even if face with possible death would you be thinking of the impact of that death for the sake of the gospel?

Phllipians 1: The Unconquerable Gospel

2007-06-19T05:58:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we saw that Paul's prayer was that the Philippians be filled with love. To what end? Well we repeatedly see Paul's concern for the witness of the gospel.

Philippians 1:12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ

Now we go back to Paul’s attitude in the midst of his trial. First of all ,we see that he actually is concerned about the spread of the gospel. The key to this whole section is v 18 where Paul says the important thing is that Christ is preached.

Suffering can promote the cause of Christ
One great thing about Paul is that every event in his life is measured by whether or not it advances the gospel. He wants to encourage the Philippians to think the same way. How often do we measure our trials by whether or not they help spread the gospel? We tend to think about ourselves in our trials. But in Paul’s example we see trials measured by the Great Commission.

Here again, Paul was in the midst of horrific circumstances. He was chained to the Praetorian guard in some dungeon. But Paul's attitude was not so much " I am chained to him". It was "He is chained to me" I have a captive audience for the gospel. And in fact Paul started winning over the palace guard to Christ. Paul doesn't ever complain about his situation, but is always looking for the cause fo the gospel in any situation.

So let me ask this question.
How are the trials or difficulties you are going through helping to advance the gospel? Have you asked this question? Can you rejoice in that purpose?

Paul says it has become clear to everyone that he is in chains for Christ. In other words, his imprisonment was due to the fact that he was a Christian and in the service of the gospel.

. v 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.

Paul says that because of his chains, many of the brothers have been encouraged to preach the word of God with even more boldness. Isn’t it true that zeal is contagious?

When we are zealous, others are inspired to be zealous. But when we are lax, no one is inspired. Here Paul’s zeal for the gospel got him incarcerated and was an inspiration to others.

Is your zeal contagious? Are you an inspiration to others or one that discourages others from the faith?

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

It is so interesting that Paul was not necessarily concerned with those who were preaching with a false motive. He was only interested that Christ was being preached.

Nowadays, we are sometimes so concerned about the motives of why people do things. We also are concerned with what man thinks about our ministry. Here, it seems that Paul is not as concerned with these things. His focus is really on the gospel . He has a gospel-centered life. This is the thing that makes him rejoice: the gospel going out.

Sometimes we are so intent on getting our motives right with regard to the gospel that we get paralyzed from sharing.

Does the gospel going out make you rejoice? Are you more concerned that the gospel is communicated than that the motives are perfect ?

Phillipians 1:Prayer In Affliction.

2007-06-18T10:12:00.000-04:00

We continue our series on Philippians. The letter written from a nasty dungeon in Rome where Paul was chained to an imperial guard. Last week we saw that Paul in spite of his horrific circumstance was not thinking of his circumstances but was thinking of the church. Paul considered himself Christ’s slave and was more concerned about others that himself. Paul wrote to the church that was faithful in supporting him.

I. Prayer In Affliction.

Now this leads to this glorious prayer that we have in the following verses.

Phil 1:9-11 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ-to the glory and praise of God.

Love
His primary concern is that the church demonstrates love to one another-- but an interesting part of this love is that the love is informed by something. What kind of love are we talking about? Again the word is "Agape."

Paul is always concerned about love. The word agape love is the selfless kind of God love that the Holy spirit creates in us. It is distinguished from eros, the romantic love, and phileo, the brotherly love. Both of these have a reciprocal component--"I love you if you love me." But agape has this giving selfless, sacrificing aspect to it. Paul wants this love to abound more and more among them.

Where do we get it? God . In order to have agape love for others we must be immersed in God's agape love for us. If our agape account is full , we can make deposits in other's bank. If not, we can't .

But then he qualifies the Agape by saying that it should grow in ….

Knowledge. – the word is epignosko. It is to be a love that is fully informed . Not a blind love. A love that is not based on feelings, but on facts. See, usually we think of love as primarily a feeling, but Paul is talking about self sacrificing actions based on facts.

What facts? Obviously the facts about the gospel. The fact that God sent his only son for them. That they have been adopted into his family, made new creations, and that they worship an incredible God who is faithful and true full of love and mercy and faithfulness.

Depth of Insight- The word there is aisthesis. Wisdom, discernment. In other words, not only is the love supposed to be based on knowledge. But the knowledge will lead to understanding about the application of that love. In other words, the Who, The What and the How of demonstrating love. Love does not mean giving drugs to a drug addict. It means using wisdom in your love. This will lead to a

Approving—the word here is dokimzo which means to test and approve. He is praying for the ability of the Philippians to test things. So that they may be discerning about all matters. That they would know the difference between right and wrong and what things are of more value. ….

Sincere and In offensive- the word here means literally “judged by sunlight." – If they are sincere they are sincere unto God and if that is the case they also will not cause others to stumble. Finally this leads to ……

The Fruit of righteousness. This is in the singular and refers to the righteous conduct of the Philippians . Notice that this is near the end. It is a RESULT of all that has gone before. All of these things seem to be built on one another.

To the glory and praise of God- This righteousness will lead to the glory of God and receiving commendation from him.

So look at the progression. His prayer is that we love with a love that is informed about God, and that as we do, we will gain more discernment about right and wrong. Therefore,we can test all things accordingly, and therefore make right choices and therefore glorify God. This is really a great "life" prayer.

Are you richly getting love deposits from God in your bank so that you can make plenty of deposits in others lives without asking for something in return. ?

Phillipians 1: I Have You In My Heart

2007-06-15T11:47:00.000-04:00

Paul continues that it is right for him to feel this way, because I have you in my heart.
That is a beautiful expression . Paul had not only them in his mind but in his heart. It shows the tenderness that Paul had for the church and how he longed for their progress in the gospel. Do we have other believers in our hearts, or are we too busy for that?

I confess I have often been a victim of distractions that I did not have people in my heart for prayer. We want to be used in one another’s lives. To become conformed to the image of his son.
We should have one another in our hearts. We need to have the affection of Christ. That is not a natural state, but this love comes into us only as we meditate on the Lord.

We need to sit soak and serve. Not sit, soak and sour. We need to love one another. No matter what the circumstances. You are all partakers of grace. It is the grace that is involved in suffering and in the ministry. I want the grace of God to be working in our lives.

Do you view suffering as a privilege to demonstrate the grace of God. What is your attitude towards suffering? What is your attitude towards fellow believers? Have you kept short accounts with them, that you have their best interests in mind.

Phillipians 1:Partnership In The Gospel

2007-06-14T12:27:00.000-04:00

Phil 1:5-8 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. 7 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me. 8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

One of the things that gives Paul joy is given to us in verse 5, where we learn that the church in Philippi, which Paul had founded ten years prior to the letter, was partners with him in the gospel. What did this partnership look like?

Well, we know that Phillipi was a supportive church. In fact it was the only church from whom Paul received financial help in the early days.

Phil 4:15-17 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need.

They had a history of provision for Paul from the time that Lydia had given the apostles a place to live, to the present. The Phillipians were always helpful to Paul.

But the Philippian partnership went far beyond the pocketbook. In 2:25 we learn that they sent one of their own, Epaphroditus, as their messenger to represent them and to stay with Paul for a while and be of any practical help he could.

And their partnership went even farther than this. They didn't just participate in the gospel at a distance through other people—as important as that kind of participation is. They didn't stop there, they themselves LIVED for the advancement of the gospel in their own neighborhoods and at their own work places.

They had joined together in a common task. They were "partakers" of God's grace. Paul stressed the commonality that was between him and the saints--namely, the gospel--the mission. They were sharers in the gospel. The were committed to the furtherance of the gospel.

The church is to share in this activity. Every one of us as believers shares in common in the furtherance of the gospel.

How does God want us to participate as partners in the gospel? Am I a spectator or a participant?

"He who began a good work in you"

Their participation in the gospel was a proof that God was involved in their lives. That is an evidence to Paul that God will bring the work to completion, because it was a supernatural work. Paul has confidence of God working in the lives of the Phillipians because they are bearing the evidence or the fruit of that grace. So this is not an unconditional promise but a conditional one. We have a right to expect the faithful work of God in our lives because we participate-- because we bear fruit. God is faithful.

Phillipians 1: Praying with Thanksgiving and Joy

2007-06-13T12:07:00.000-04:00

Phil 1:3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now

A. Thanksgiving.
Paul’s response of thanksgiving and joy is remarkable because of the horrific circumstances that he was presently in. One would be wise to remember that Paul was chained in a dungeon when he wrote this. In spite of this, he writes with great thanksgiving and prayer.

Paul said that he thanked God every time he remembered them. Boy, that’s a nice way to be remembered. Again, Paul’s thankfulness is something that we need to practice. Too often we forget to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. We need to be a thankful people. If Paul could be thanking God while chained in a jail cell, should we not give thanks?

Every time we pray, notice how much time is given to intercession and how much time is given to thanksgiving. Did you ever notice that it is easier for us to dive in with our petitions than to just thank him? Sometimes we just need to force ourselves to meditate on all the blessings that we have received.

Someone has said that thanklessness is the root of all sin.
We aren’t made happy by what we have but by what we are thankful for.

B. Joy
Then we see this characteristic of joy. Can you see the connection? Joy is a fruit of thanksgiving. As we are giving thanks, we are meditating on good things. Like Julie Andrews says. I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so sad.

The joy spoken of in scripture is not a superficial one.

From what source have I been pursuing joy?Have we been joyful because of circumstances or because of some new possession? Or because of what people think of you?

If our joy never runs deeper than our day to day circumstances then we are doomed to being emotional yo yo’s .

Are you consistently giving thanks for the good things in your life are are you bitter and grumbling? Does your joy come from your immediate circumstances or is your joy found in belonging to Christ.

Phillipian 1: Christians are Saints

2007-06-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

Phil 1:1 To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:
2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

We often don’t refer to each other as saints, but that is what Paul often does. What does saint mean? A saint is not some kind of super Christian who gets canonized by the catholic church. No, a saint is a Christian. The word for saint is hagios--which means one set apart. Every Christian has had a miracle done inside him. He has been set apart for God. He has been pulled out of the darkness and into his wonderful light.

But you may say, "Well, I don’t feel special. I don’t feel like I have been set apart for God." But believers are not to be led by feeling. You need to put your faith into the facts. Remember Paul never identifies the church as being sinners, he identifies them with being "set apart" ones. He always encourages them to act out of who they ALREADY are--to live up to what they have already attained.

Do you consider yourself, and identify yourself as a saint? Does this affect your actions?

Deacons and Overseers. In one sentence Paul captures the whole of the Christian church . Saints, overseers and deacons. Overseers were elders and were responsible for the feeding of the flock . Deacons served the church in practical ways. Notice that even though there were these offices that Paul addresses the letter to the whole church. The letter is not addressed to the leaders. Interesting. Nowadays an important letter would be delivered to the pastor of the church, but Paul considers the whole church responsible for its proper conduct.

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

This was Paul’s common greeting. Notice that "grace" always comes before the shalom. Shalom (peace)was the common Jewish greeting, but now grace comes before it. Grace enables the peace that we have with God. This expression was invented by the Christians. Without grace there could be no peace with God. "Grace and Peace" is uniquely a new covenant greeting.

Phillipians 1: Slaves Of Christ

2007-06-11T11:01:00.000-04:00

Paul founded the church at Philippi during his second missionary journey in about 53 AD. This is the first church that Paul founded in Europe. He went to Macedonia in response to a vision. He had planned to go to Asia but the Holy Spirit kept him from there and sent him a vision of a Macedonian man begging him to come.

Philippi was a city in the province of Macedonia. It was founded by Philip, father of Alexander the Great. It had become a Roman colony. It was very proud of its association with Rome. It was made a Roman colony by Augustus, to commemorate his victory over Brutus and Cassius. A colony was a portion of Rome itself transplanted to the provinces, and a portrait of the mother city. Its inhabitants were Roman citizens, having the right of voting in the Roman tribes, governed by their own senate and magistrates, and not by the governor of the province, with the Roman law, and Latin language. They were very proud of being uniquely Roman.

At Philippi, when Paul first entered the city, he could not find many Jews. Paul’s custom upon entering a city was to first preach at the synagogues, but there was not even one synagogue. A synagogue was required if there were a least 10 Jewish men, but there wasn’t even that. So Paul and his companions traveled to the river where they found some women praising God. These turned out to be God fearers primarily, not Jews--Gentiles who feared Jehovah.

Their hearts were open to God, especially a woman named Lydia who was a seller of purple cloth. She invited them to stay at her house. During their short stay there they had two major encounters. They cast a demon out of a sooth saying girl and were beaten and arrested for it. Then after prayer they had a miraculous deliverance from the jail which led to the jailers conversion. Finally they left Philippi after a short time.

This young church was left to fend for itself after a very short time.

Paul writes his letter to the Phillipians from a jail cell in Rome. This letter is written about 10 years later, in about 62 AD. Paul is chained to the Praetorian guard in Roman cell. He had already been in prison for about two years. He might have been facing a death sentence , yet the word "joy" or "rejoice" appears more than 16 times in this short letter.

Paul’s object is to thank them for their recent gift, encourage them in Christ and also to warn them about possible false doctrine. But in this church, unlike others, there seemed to be no serious problems that Paul felt that he needed to rebuke. This is Paul’s warmest letter and shows the beautiful relationship that Paul had with this church.

Joy is the theme that permeates this letter.

I. Slaves and Saints of God

The letter begins with a salutation.
Phil 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:

A. Willing Slaves
We see first of all that Paul writes with Timothy. Timothy was a young man who was a protégé and co worker of Paul and who was caring for Paul’s needs. Timothy had been with him on that first trip and had been a faithful co worker for ten years now.

His introduction is much more informal than his other letters which shows that this was a letter to friends. Again, the letter was not to make a major rebuke but is the most congenial of Paul’s letters. He does not lay claim to any title. He claims to be the "doulous" of Christ. The NIV translated "servant", but it really is "bond servant" and would have been understood as "slave."
What does it mean to be a slave of Christ? First of all we know that it means that Paul considered that a life of self direction was over. His life was not his own but it was bought with a price. He considered his life to be purchased by Christ.

Do you consider yourself a slave of Jesus Christ? We know that we are not our own anymore and this is what makes Christians unique.

Be Ready!

2007-05-04T10:21:00.000-04:00

The important thing is not so much knowing how or when He shall appear, but to be ready when He comes.

Matthew 24:42 "Watch therefore"

Matthew 25:5, 10 "While the bridegroom tarried they all slumbered and slept ....
they that were ready went in .... and the door was shut."

Matthew 24:44 "Be ye also ready"

Mark 13:33-37 "Watch and pray"

Luke 12:40 "Be ye therefore ready also ..."

Luke 21:34 "take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be over charged with
surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares."

Luke 21:36 "Watch ye therefore, and pray always"

1 Thessalonians 5:4, 6 "watch and be sober"

1 Peter 4:7 "But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer."

2 Peter 3:11, 14 "Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of
persons ought ye to be ... be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot,
and blameless."

Revelation 2:25 "hold fast"

Revelation 3:11 "hold that fast"

Revelation 16:15 "Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments (righteousness)"

Conclusion: It is unlikely but possible that all the signs have been fulfilled that precede the return of Jesus. This position does justice to the warnings to be ready and the admonition to watch.

The warnings to be ready are real--for we don’t know if all the signs are fulfilled, and we should be ready. Just as one should wear a seatbelt in his car, even though he think an accident unlikely.

With every wave of circumstances, our expectations are intensified and our eagerness to be ready, even though we do not know if these times are the final times. Just as Hitler very much appeared to be the antichrist in his time.

But since it is unlikely that signs have been completely fulfilled, we should be watchful of signs so to have our expectation heightened, and understanding increased, so as to respond appropriately.

Could Christ come back at any time?

2007-05-03T10:12:00.000-04:00

There is a tension between two sets of scriptures. Those that say that Christ’s coming will be sudden and unexpected, and those that speak of certain events that will happen before Christ returns.

A. Some verses predicting a sudden unexpected coming
Matthew 24:42-44Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. 44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

Matthew 24:50The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,

Matthew 25:13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Mark 13:34-37 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. 35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: 36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

Luke 12:40 Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.
1 Thessalonians 5:2For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

2 Peter 3:10But 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.

If there were no passages in the NT about signs that would precede Christ’s return, we would probably conclude from these that Jesus could come at any moment.

2 Peter 3:8-9 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 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.

B Verses that speak of Signs that precede Christ’s Return

1. The preaching of the gospel to all nations

Mark 13:10 And the gospel must first be published among all nations.

Matthew 24:14And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

2. The Great Tribulation
Mark 13:7-8 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet. 8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.

Matthew 24:15-22 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) 16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: 17 Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: 18 Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. 19 And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! 20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: 21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.

Luke 21:20-24 And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. 21 Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. 22 For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. 23 But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. 24 And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.

Mark 13:19-20 For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be. 20 And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect’s sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.

3. False prophets working signs and wonders
Mark 13:22 For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.

Matthew 24:23-24Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. 24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

4. Signs in the heavens and earth
Mark 13:24-25But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, 25 And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.

Matthew 24:29-30Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: 30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

Luke 21:25-27And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

5. The Coming of the AntiChrist
2 Thessalonians 2:3-5 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. 5 Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things

6. The Salvation of Israel
Romans 11:12 Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?

Romans 11:25-26 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. 26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

7. The Great Apostasy
2 Thessalonians 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first,

2 Timothy 3:1,2 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

How can we reconcile the passages that seem to warn us to be ready because Christ could come at any moment and those that say that certain important events must take place first. Several solutions have been proposed.

1. The signs have all been fulfilled so Christ could return at any moment. Possible , but the scriptures seem to point to events that are not fulfilled.

2. There are two separate returns of Christ. This is the pre trib rapture view, which says that Christ first comes to rapture the church, and then a time period goes by where other things occur and then Christ comes again in judgment. We will not look at the merits of this view in this study.

3.Christ couldn’t come at any time- But this view weakens the scriptures that speak that Christ’s return is imminent, and the warnings to keep watch. Also signs are supposed to increase our expectation for his return not weaken it.

4. My preferred way of looking at it is that it is unlikely but possible that the signs have already been fulfilled. I like this view because since we say it is possible, it keeps us on our toes to keep watching expectantly. But it is unlikely so we continue to watch for signs that will heighten our expectation.

We do not know Exactly when Christ will return

2007-05-02T10:09:00.000-04:00

We do not know exactly when Christ will return.
"When shall these things be?" (Matthew 24:3)

A. Though it is not for us to know the day or the hour .....

Matthew 24:36,44; 25:13 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. 44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. 13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Mark 13:32,33 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. 33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.

Luke 12:40 Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

Anyone who claims to know the specific day and hour that Jesus is returning is automatically to be considered wrong. Many cults have made predictions of specific dates for Christ’s return, and all of them have turned out to be wrong. Even those, professedly within the evangelical church, have brought great harm by insisting they knew the specific time of the return of Jesus. Don’t be fooled or deceived by such.

B .... we should be aware of the "times and seasons" and thereby know that His coming is near.

1 Thessalonians 5:1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.

Matthew 24:33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.

Hebrews 10:25 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.

1 Peter 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

1 John 2:18 Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.

The Church should eagerly long for His return. Others should fear it

2007-05-01T09:58:00.000-04:00

We continue our study of the return of Jesus. One thing we find is that though the church should eagerly long for the return of Christ, non believers don't have an expctation of this being a good thing.

The first time Jesus came for salvation (but the second time it will be to judge the nations)
Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
Matthew 25:32,41 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: 41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

2 Peter 3:6-7 7 By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. NIV

Jude 14,15 And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.

Revelation 19:15,16 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

A. To believers this promise offers hope
Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Phil 3:2020 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ

1 Cor 16:22 If anyone does not love the Lord-a curse be on him. Come, O Lord!

2 Peter 3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

1 John 3:2,3 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

Our response should be the same as John’s: to eagerly long for the Lord’s return. The more Christians are caught up in this life, and the more they neglect personal fellowship with Jesus, the less they will long for His return. But those who are older, or being persecuted, or suffering or whose daily walk is deep, will have a more intense yearning for His return.

B. To the unsaved, however, it will be a time of great fear and disaster
Amos 5:18-19 Woe unto you that desire the day of the LORD! to what end is it for you? the day of the LORD is darkness, and not light. 19 As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; or went into the house, and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him.

Luke 21:26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

Revelation 6:12-17And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: 17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

Revelation 9:6 And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them.

On the above most evangelicals agree: That Christ will return bodily, that the final result of His return will be the judgment of unbelievers and the final reward of believers, and that eventually believers will live with Christ in a new heaven and earth for eternity.

But that said, there is disagreement over the specific details leading up to and following Christ's return. Specifically they differ over the nature of the millenium, the sequence of Christ’s return, the great tribulation period that will come upon the earth, and the salvation of the Jewish people.

It is important to note that evangelicals who all hold the Bible as inerrant, all can hold differing interpretations of various passages. These are items of secondary importance and should not be divisive to the body of Christ. Nevertheless, it is worth our time to study some of these questions in more detail.

The Return of Jesus

2007-04-27T09:38:00.000-04:00

Although we cannot know everything about the future, God knows everything about it and he has in Scripture told us about the major events yet to come in the history of the universe. There have been many debates in the history of the church over questions regarding the future. In this study we will deal specifically with the Return of Jesus. We will start with those things on which all evangelicals agree and then move to the more controversial issues.

The Return o fChrist is a major doctrine of Christianity which is often overlooked

I. There will be a Sudden, Personal, Visible , Bodily Return of Jesus

A. In the Old Testament.

Psalm 50:3-6 Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him. 4 He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people. 5 Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice. 6 And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God is judge himself. Selah.

Isaiah 66:15,16,18,23,24 For, behold, the LORD will come with fire, and with his chariots like a whirlwind, to render his anger with fury, and his rebuke with flames of fire. 16 For by fire and by his sword will the LORD plead with all flesh: and the slain of the LORD shall be many. 18 For I know their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory. 23 And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD. 24 And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.

B. Predicted by Jesus
John 14:3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

Matthew 24:44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

Revelation 2:25; 22:7,12,20 But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. 7 Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. 12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

C Predicted By Angels
Acts 1:11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

D. Predicted By the early church
Acts 3:20,21 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: 21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

1 Cor.1:7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:

1 Cor 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

1 Cor 11:26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.

1 Cor 15:20-25 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.

1 Cor 16:22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema, Maranatha. (maranatha means come quickly)

Colossians 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

1 Thessalonians 4:16; 5:23 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: 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 1:7,8; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 Thess 2:1-2 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.

1 Timothy 6:14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 Timothy 4:1,2,8 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

James 5:8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

1 Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

This theme is the dominant hope of the NT church. That Jesus himself is coming to earth once again in bodily form. It is worthwhile to meditate on the many scriptures that testify to these truths.

Spiritual Authority Conclusion

2007-04-24T12:04:00.000-04:00

Concluding our study on Spiritual Authority

Authority exercised in the church is divine authority expressed through those in official authority.

Therefore, there is such a thing as spiritual leadership and oversight. Leaders would be good to exemplify the service that Jesus did and really play the role of servant. As they play the role of servant, they will have the greatest impact. When we Lord it over others we are going against the will of God.

All Christians should have an attitude of submission. Those that are more mature in the things of God, especially those who labor in the word and have proven their servanthood, should be respected and their words given great weight. We reject these at our peril and to the peril of the church. If all Christians cultivated this humble submission and sought out and heeded the instruction of elders, the church would thrive.

Those that are submitted to God’s authority will then sense divine authority in other places. In meekness and humility they will respect the instituted authorities and exercise the authority they were given to wield. As this happens the Kingdom of God is established!

The Church is not a pure democracy and it is not a dictatorship. The church is not led by majority vote as a matter of course. It is to be led by leaders. But leaders are to be proven by their servitude and when given official position it is merely a recognition of this.

Elders then are to lead not through command but through persuasion to obey what is perceived to be the will of God. Domineering issue of commands has no place in the church of Jesus Christ--especially when it is in a gray area or a subjective area.

Leaders are to be gentle servers and persuaders. If leaders led more as servants and the church were more submissive to their leaders we would have much greater order in the church.

Apostolic Authority and Spiritual Submission

2007-04-23T11:51:00.000-04:00

The twelve apostles surely held a unique place in God’s economy. But there were other apostles like Paul, Barnabus, James, Timothy and Silas. The chief work of an apostle is to raise up local assemblies. Do apostles have official authority to control the affairs of local churches?

There is a distinction between the church and the work. The work was the responsibility of the workers who raise and establish churches and then move on. The church is the responsibility of the responsible brothers (elders)who are part of the local assembly.

So, as the apostles raised up the assembly, they partially were responsible for the church but this was an incubation phase. That is why Paul rented his own house to conduct apostolic meetings alongside the church in Acts 28--and why he had meetings in the school of Tyrannus.

These meetings were "equipping" or "teaching" meetings. The apostles never settled down to “officially pastor” local churches. They always had their eye on moving on. The Work is roving, regional. The Church is local and resident. A careful study of Paul’s apostolic journeys reveal that he spent astonishingly little time in planting churches. Four months each in the case of the Galatian churches. He would lay a solid foundation and leave.

Paul had a delegated authority to build up the church
2 Corinthians 10:8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

But Paul encouraged churches to judge his words to see if they were of God. Not to accept them unconditionally.

1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

It is clear from the persuasive tone that permeates his letters, that Paul treated the churches as a father would treat his adult children, not as toddlers. In this way, Paul gave his judgment on church affairs not unilateral decrees.

1 Corinthians 5:3-5, 12-13 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, 4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

Paul reaches his own judgment, but then tells the entire church to discipline him on its own. Paul did not issue a unilateral decree settling the matter but urged the congregation to do so. Paul did not want the churches to be dependent on Him but on Christ! So he progressively moved then in this direction.

1 Corinthians 2:4-5 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

Paul refrained from using the very strong word "epitage" (commandment) to charge obedience to himself.

1 Corinthians 7:6 But I speak this by permission, and not of (epitage) commandment.

1 Corinthians 7:25 Now concerning virgins I have no commandment (epitage) of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.

When Paul did urge “commands”, it had to do with the authority of the Lord!

2 Thess 3:6-7 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command (paraggello) you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.

2 Thess 3:12 Such people we command (paraggello) and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat.

Paraggelllo means a message transmitted from someone else! He was communicating the command of God!

When Paul called the believers to action, we find him urging , “beseeching”, and appealing, rather than issuing authoritarian decrees.

Romans 15:30 Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;

1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

At times, when he needed to be sharp, he enjoined obedience to Christ rather than himself.

Romans 14:14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

1 Thessalonians 4:15 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.

Because Paul often spoke the word of the Lord. he could say that those who rejected his words , rejected not him but Christ.

1 Thessalonians 4:8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit.

Paul’s whole outlook of apostolic authority is crystallized in the following

2 Corinthians 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

So we see that apostolic authority is delegated by God for a specific region. This authority is not to issue authoritarian decrees. But the empowerment to build up the church through expressing the mind, will, word of God. As this Word is expressed, it is authoritative , not by virtue of it coming from the apostle, but as it reflects God’s Mind.

Abuse of Spiritual Authority

2007-04-19T11:45:00.000-04:00

Conitnuing our study on Spiritual authority.

We are called to represent the Spirit’s will to each other--not to substitute for Him or replace His work. Mutual subjection is not a license to probe into the intimate affairs of our brethren. Nowhere does the Bible give Christians liberty to quiz brethren on financial investments, or how they make love to their wives. This kind of unnecessary probing in the name of accountability is what authoritarian cults are made of. A believer should willingly confide. This is a choice, not a duty.

The Bible puts a high premium on individual Christian liberty, freedom and privacy.

Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Colossians 2:16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:

James 4:11-12 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?

As Christians , we are not to be busybodies.

1 Timothy 5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.

1 Peter 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.

Unless there is good reason to suspect a brother is in sin, it is unchristian to poke and pry into their domestic affairs. Mutual subjection to divine authority is not control but aid. It is not official, legal, or mechanical but functional.

The Cost.
Mutual subjection is not morally relative, tolerant egalitarianism. Receiving correction, and reproof from others is difficult. That is why is serves as an antidote to the flesh. Exercising divine authority is also difficult. The task of reproving others is not fun but risky. It is far easier to let things go and just pray, than to lovingly confront.

Who Should We Subject Ourselves To ?

2007-04-18T15:21:00.000-04:00

We continue our study of spiritual authority. Last time we saw the difference betwn subjection and obedience. Now the question is: who do we subject ourselves to. Let's look at the scriptures.

1. Official Authorities should be obeyed as long as what they declare does not violate the will of a higher authority

a) Parents
Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey(hupakouo) your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

b) Government leaders
Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject(hupotasso) to principalities and powers(exousia), to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

c) Employers
Ephesians 6:5 Servants, be obedient(hupakouo) to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;

Colossians 3:22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

d) to church leaders – an attitude of submission
1 Corinthians 16:10-11 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do. 11 Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.

1 Corinthians 16:15-18 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) 16 That ye submit yourselves (hupotasso) unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. 17 I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such.

Philippians 2:29-30 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation(value): 30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you (proistemi-forefront)in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey(peitho) them that have the rule over you, (hegeomai)and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

2 Corinthians 8:22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.

Clearly the NT exhorts believers to esteem and to give weight to those who work tirelessly in spiritual service. But again, here we see Paul continually refer to the labor of those that should be esteemed. It is merited. Secondly, he never enjoins unconditional obedience but calls for an attitude of hupotasso or a submissive attitude to their instruction.

2 Thess 3:14 If anyone does not obey (hupakouo) our instruction (logos) in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed.

One could say in the above scripture , that Paul was enjoining obedience not to his will but what he believed to be the clear will of God as expressed in this letter. The word for instruction used is "logos" which usually relates to the content.

e) Mutual subjection

Ephesians 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.

1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit (hupotasso) yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

The Bible teaches mutual subjection, not protective covering. Mutual subjection rests upon the idea that all believers are gifted and can all express Christ. It rests on the concept that the entire Body has been vested with Divine authority-- not just a small section of it.

Matthew 18:15-20 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. 18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Matthew 16:16-19 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Ephesians 1:19-23 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

As the members of the community discharge their ministries, authority is dispensed through the gifts. We must be open for the Lord to correct us through one another. Mutual submission is subjection to Christ’s authority. When another believer is expressing divine authority in the church, we do well to recognize it and be subject to it. To reject someone’s words when they are expressing divine thought is to reject Divine authority. Love is always open to learn from and listen to what others have to say. At the same time, love is willing to admonish.

Subjection vs. Obedience

2007-04-17T15:14:00.000-04:00

We have been looking at the topic of spiritual authority. If we understand that there is a purpose to divine authority, then we need to submit to that authority. The Greek word most often translated “submit” in the NT is hupotasso. It would be better translated "subjection." It is a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating with, and yielding to the admonition or advice of another.

This is a beautiful attitude. But we must begin with what God wants, and with our individual subjection to Christ, His Word, and to each other in the fellowship

a) Subjection vs. Obedience
Subjection is an attitude. Obedience is an action. Subjection is unconditional. Obedience is conditional. Subjection is an inward attitude. Obedience is an outward conduct. God summons us to have a spirit of humble subjection toward those whom He has placed in official authority, yet we cannot obey them if they command us to do that which violates God’s will.

Exodus 1:17 But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Daniel 3:17-18 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. 18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Acts 4:18-20 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

One can disobey an earthly authority while maintaining a spirit of humble subjection.

Authority In The Church

2007-04-16T14:44:00.000-04:00

We have been looking a the topic of spiritual authority. Last time, we saw that official authority flows from divine authority. Authority in the government realm, or family realm is easily understood, but how does authority operate in the Church? The church is a very specific jurisdiction. Many Christians believe in a “Sola Pastora” where the Pastor calls the shots and there is no accountability. Some have reacted to this extreme and now endorse what amounts to a leaderless egalitarianism where consensus is stressed. Both of these are extremes. The biblical truth is somewhere in the middle as we shall see.

a) Jesus and the Gentile political model

Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

Luke 22:25-27 And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. 26 But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. 27 For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.

In these key passages, Jesus was condemning the high handed style of official authority and saying that it was not to be so in the church. Those that were to be esteemed and recognized in official position were to be proven servants of God.

b) Jesus and the Jewish, religious model

Matthew 23:8-12 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

From this scripture we glean the following: In the Jewish world, there was a clergy system where, religious leaders were given honorific titles. These titles weren’t of themselves a problem, unless they exalted themselves into positions of public display, and leadership rooted in status, prestige and titles.

In the kingdom, Jesus wants us to look to Him as Lord. All are brethren in the same family. There is the priesthood of all believers. Leaders are to find themselves in the towel of servitude and humility and leadership is rooted in inward character and life. But this is not to deny that there would be offices in the NT church. But that they were to flow from the towel of servitude.

The church is neither a dictatorship nor a democracy. It is to be led by elders who have proven themselves as shepherds, and are usually in plural leadership. Their leadership is not dictatorial but one of godly example and persuasion.

c) Jesus has delegated His authority to the Church!

The New Testament Leadership Model

1) Function Vs. Position
Most of the world sees leadership in a positional model. But leadership in the NT is not just positional but first functional. Rather than do away with position, we must establish position based upon function of the Spirit. But a functional mindset portrays authority in terms of how things operate organically. In other words, a premium is given to the activity of each member, his maturity, giftedness, and service.

2) Elders
In the Greek language, elder (presbuteros) simply means older man, therefore elders were simply spiritually mature men- who superintended the affairs of the local church. They were not professional clergy but raised up through the ranks by what they did. Shepherding was how they functioned. They were recognized and given official position after they had been proven servants!

3) The tragedy of past movements
In the seventies came the discipleship/shepherding movement which degraded into extreme forms of control and manipulation. The false assumption was that submission is the equivalent of unconditional obedience and that God vested certain people with unquestioned authority over others. Spiritual abuse was dismissed under the excuse that God would hold the individual shepherds responsible for wrong decisions. "The sheep just need to obey!" In reaction to this movement, many swung to the other extreme, against any form of leadership. But the church is not a leaderless, egalitarianism nor is it a rigid authoritarianism.

4) Jurisdictions
The Bible teaches that exousia or authority is delegated to specific people for specific things in the body. Even within the church there are specific jurisdictions. Apostles have authority of support and for speaking into the churches they plant! Elders have authority to lead the local church. The congregation has authority to discipline sin, settle disputes and propose candidates for leadership. It is very important to understand jurisdictions.

1 Cor 9:12-13 If others have this right (exousia) of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more? But we did not use this right(exousia). On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.

1 Cor 9:18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights(exousia) in preaching it.

2 Cor 13:10 This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority(exousia) -the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down

One could say that even these examples only reveal the "exousia" Paul had with the Corinthian church because of his relationship to them--being that he planted the church, and edified it. So this exousia was a result of his relationship with them not the cause of his relationship.

2 Cor 10:13-16 We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you. 14 We are not going too far in our boasting, as would be the case if we had not come to you, for we did get as far as you with the gospel of Christ. 15 Neither do we go beyond our limits by boasting of work done by others. Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, 16 so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. For we do not want to boast about work already done in another man's territory.

Spiritual Authority and Submission

2007-04-13T10:39:00.000-04:00

Is there authority in the church? If so, what is the nature of that authority? To whom do we submit ourselves? These are very important for the church today. This is an area of great misunderstanding and abuse. My contention is that God never instituted men in the church to have absolute authority over other men. But the authority in the church was an authority to serve. Let’s take a comprehensive look at the scriptures.

I. ALL AUTHORITY COMES FROM GOD
Authority is a God given privilege to carry out an action. The NT word that comes closest to our word is exousia. - the right to carry out a particular action.

Rom 13:1-4 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God's servant to do you good.

II THIS AUTHORITY HAS BEEN VESTED IN HIS SON
Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power (exousia) is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

John 3:30-36 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. 32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. 33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. 34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. 35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. 36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

III. GOD HAS DELEGATED HIS AUTHORITY TO MEN AND WOMEN ON EARTH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES.

All authority does not look the same. Authority over self, over family, over government, and in church all have their own distinctives. It is not a one size fits all.

1. OFFICIAL AUTHORITY AND DIVINE AUTHORITY
Official authority has to do with office, and position. Divine authority is what is given by God. So any official authority flows from divine authority. Some have gone so far as to say that there is no official authority in the church. But again, it is not either/or but both/and. One is the result of the other. Official authority flows from divine authority.

Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. (exousia) For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority;(huperoche) that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

The Centurion compares his authority with the Lord’s:

Matthew 8:9 For I am a man under authority, (exousia) having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.

John 19:10-11 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power(exousia) to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.

Acts 23:2-5 And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. 3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law? 4 And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God’s high priest? 5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler (archon) of thy people.

Paul recognized that he should have respected the office because it was given by God. Just as David respected Saul because of the office.

Acts 26:10,12 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority (exousia) from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,

1 Peter 2:13,14,19 Submit(hupotasso) yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

Ephesians 5:22-23 Wives, submit (hupotasso) yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.

Again, official authority is authority that is vested in a static office without regard to the action of person who has it. It is positional authority. It is fixed, external. It is for this reason that Christians are charged to be subject to the official leaders of government, regardless of their character as long as they do not go against the Word of God. But we shall see that this recognized office flows out of divine authority.

Acts 5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

Here we see that when official authority went against the divine jurisdiction, that it was necessary to obey the divine over the official authority.

THE RESURRECTION RELEASES THE HOLY SPIRIT!

2007-04-12T11:51:00.000-04:00

John 7:37-39 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.

Here is an incredible scripture. Jesus first proclaims this greater release of the Holy Spirit that was coming, yet the scripture reveals that the Spirit could not come UNTIL the glorification o fJesus in his resurrection and ascension.

No Resurrection and Ascension --No Pentecost!

Acts 2:32-34 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.

On the day of Pentecost, when the Holy spirit was poured out in the way that had been predicted, Peter explains that when Jesus ascended that he received this ability to pour out the Holy Spirit. This is the Gift of the Holy spirit himself. The third person of the Trinity. Isn't that amazing that the third person of the Trinity was awaiting the arrival of the Son to be released from heaven unto men?

John the Baptist said "I baptize you with water but Jesus will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."

Jesus told the disciples, after he gave the Great Commission in Matt 28, that they were to wait in Jerusalem to receive the power from on high that would enable them to complete the mission.

The promise of the Holy Spirit is a present promise. It is a promise that has become a reality becasue of the Resurrection and Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ! Blessings