April 21, 2016
Don't Be Last
III John 1:9... I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will have nothing to do with us...
There is an old child's song that used to be sung at Christmas and other times, it goes like this... J O Y, J O Y this must surely mean, Jesus first, Yourself last, and Others in between... sung twice. This song has been rejected by many, but its basis is scriptural. Jesus said that the first shall be last and the last shall be first. Don't be last by desiring to be first.
We have all seen people who are a bit narcissistic. They promote themselves ahead of all others. Their families and things they do are the best, no others can compare. They puff themselves up and take command causing others to be lowered to servitude or obscurity. We must be different. We serve to lift others up, seeking their good and in doing so lift the name of Jesus.
K and A, serve others. Do not seek glory for yourself and step on others on your way to the top. When you lift others, you are lifted as well. If you don't want to be last, don't seek to be first. I know this is different than what the world says... so many aspects of life are. Living for Jesus is different. Help others and you will be like Christ. It is who we are, who you want to be.
~Dad
Thursday, April 21, 2016
III John 1:8, Show Hospitality
April 20, 2016
Show Hospitality
III John 1:8... We ought therefore to show hospitality to such men so that we may work together for the truth...
Working together toward a goal helps it get accomplished. I am not writing about the goal today I am writing about the need to work together. The scripture, especially the NT, is rich with encouragement and examples of working without division, and being in one accord. This is crucial in the church for the kingdom to move forward.
Another aspect mentioned in this verse is the need for hospitality between believers. This is one way for unity to flourish. Hospitality has at least two legs which it stands on. One is caring and the other is serving. When we care for and serve others, hospitality takes place. In John's third letter, he shares with Gaius how his hospitality helped the church go forward. There are many congregants but few pastors. This is normal and good. But too many think that the pastor is the one who does all the work. This is not true. John wanted Gaius to know that his faithfulness to hospitality is faithfulness to the work of the Lord. He was working together with the evangelists for the expansion of the kingdom.
A and K, you may never stand a street corner to spread the gospel, but then again you might. The question is, will you care and serve others who are working to see the kingdom expand? When you show hospitality to your brothers and sisters in Christ, you are doing just that. You are part of the kingdom, working together to let others know how to be in the Kingdom of Heaven. There is no better work than to work for the Lord. It brings such satisfaction to serve him.
~Dad
Show Hospitality
III John 1:8... We ought therefore to show hospitality to such men so that we may work together for the truth...
Working together toward a goal helps it get accomplished. I am not writing about the goal today I am writing about the need to work together. The scripture, especially the NT, is rich with encouragement and examples of working without division, and being in one accord. This is crucial in the church for the kingdom to move forward.
Another aspect mentioned in this verse is the need for hospitality between believers. This is one way for unity to flourish. Hospitality has at least two legs which it stands on. One is caring and the other is serving. When we care for and serve others, hospitality takes place. In John's third letter, he shares with Gaius how his hospitality helped the church go forward. There are many congregants but few pastors. This is normal and good. But too many think that the pastor is the one who does all the work. This is not true. John wanted Gaius to know that his faithfulness to hospitality is faithfulness to the work of the Lord. He was working together with the evangelists for the expansion of the kingdom.
A and K, you may never stand a street corner to spread the gospel, but then again you might. The question is, will you care and serve others who are working to see the kingdom expand? When you show hospitality to your brothers and sisters in Christ, you are doing just that. You are part of the kingdom, working together to let others know how to be in the Kingdom of Heaven. There is no better work than to work for the Lord. It brings such satisfaction to serve him.
~Dad
III John 1:3, A Father's Joy
April 19, 2016
A Father's Joy
III John 1:3, It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth...
Gaius was a faithful follower of Christ. He lived in such a way that all could tell that he was a Christian. When John was told how his friend faithfully followed Christ, it brought him joy. We do not know the detail of their relationship, but it is easy to tell that John cared about Gaius, and that he was in some way responsible for him.
It is always good to hear that someone is true to the Lord. but when the person is someone we love, the joy billows up. There is no greater joy for a Christian father than to know his child is faithfully following and serving the Lord. When this is true, he can relax knowing, as God leads them, they will walk his path.
Daughters, when I hear of your faithfulness to the Lord, it does my heart good. Each of you must learn to make decisions which lead you closer to the Lord. There are some actions you may choose which may not be sinful by the standards of today's church, but they lead into sinful ways. Stay away from them as well. If you do, it will be easier to faithfully follow him. Then others will tell me that you do, and it will give "me great joy!"
~Dad
A Father's Joy
III John 1:3, It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth...
Gaius was a faithful follower of Christ. He lived in such a way that all could tell that he was a Christian. When John was told how his friend faithfully followed Christ, it brought him joy. We do not know the detail of their relationship, but it is easy to tell that John cared about Gaius, and that he was in some way responsible for him.
It is always good to hear that someone is true to the Lord. but when the person is someone we love, the joy billows up. There is no greater joy for a Christian father than to know his child is faithfully following and serving the Lord. When this is true, he can relax knowing, as God leads them, they will walk his path.
Daughters, when I hear of your faithfulness to the Lord, it does my heart good. Each of you must learn to make decisions which lead you closer to the Lord. There are some actions you may choose which may not be sinful by the standards of today's church, but they lead into sinful ways. Stay away from them as well. If you do, it will be easier to faithfully follow him. Then others will tell me that you do, and it will give "me great joy!"
~Dad
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
III John 1:2, Doing Well, Part 2 - Spiritual
April 18, 2016
Doing Well, Part 2 - Spiritual
III John 1:2... Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well...
In the last post, I spoke of how John cared for the physical needs of others. This is a crucial part in the ministry of the church... of a believer. But, if we fail to care for the spiritual, then we fail as a child of God. To take care of the physical body without caring for the spiritual is foolish, for what good is it to be healthy in this life if we will suffer for eternity, because we did not care about our soul?
The spiritual needs are most important, And, we desire others to be spiritually healthy. We strive to aid them when we see them in need, and we take their problems and cares to the Lord that he might intervene in their lives.
A and K, I have seen both of you care for the physical needs of others. And I know you desire to ease their hurts and that pleases me. But, I am so much more happy to know you reach out spiritually. K, your goal in life is to be a nurse. As you care for your patients, minister to them spiritually as well. A, want to sing... that is good, but my prayer is that when others hear you they are blessed in their spirit and desire God more because of your talent; never sing the songs of the world, sing for Jesus and his Kingdom.
Daughters, let me say one more thing that I am grateful for. To know both of you help to teach children about Christ brings me joy. Match your life with the Scriptures and you will carry many souls to the cross and to Heaven as well.
~Dad
III John 1:2... Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well...
In the last post, I spoke of how John cared for the physical needs of others. This is a crucial part in the ministry of the church... of a believer. But, if we fail to care for the spiritual, then we fail as a child of God. To take care of the physical body without caring for the spiritual is foolish, for what good is it to be healthy in this life if we will suffer for eternity, because we did not care about our soul?
The spiritual needs are most important, And, we desire others to be spiritually healthy. We strive to aid them when we see them in need, and we take their problems and cares to the Lord that he might intervene in their lives.
A and K, I have seen both of you care for the physical needs of others. And I know you desire to ease their hurts and that pleases me. But, I am so much more happy to know you reach out spiritually. K, your goal in life is to be a nurse. As you care for your patients, minister to them spiritually as well. A, want to sing... that is good, but my prayer is that when others hear you they are blessed in their spirit and desire God more because of your talent; never sing the songs of the world, sing for Jesus and his Kingdom.
Daughters, let me say one more thing that I am grateful for. To know both of you help to teach children about Christ brings me joy. Match your life with the Scriptures and you will carry many souls to the cross and to Heaven as well.
~Dad
III John 1:2, Doing Well, Part 1 - Physical
April 17, 2016
Doing Well, Part 1 - Physical
III John 1:2... Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well...
John was concerned about more than just the spiritual needs of others. He was concerned for their physical health as well. In his greeting, he expresses that desire for Gaius. John not only wanted him to be in good health, but he wanted him to enjoy it, to bask in the privilege of not suffering from the illness that came to many.
Do we think of the health needs of others? I know this is an common greeting yet today, but to be truly concerned for people's health is something that was a trait of Jesus when he was on earth. It needs to be ours as well.
K and A, Think of the needs of others. Hurt when they hurt. Find ways to help them. And, pray that God would intervene in their physical lives. God will use you to be a blessing to others.
~Dad
Monday, April 18, 2016
III John 1:1, My Dear Friend
April 16, 2016
My Dear Friend
III John 1:1... The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth...
In this passage, John writes to a dear friend expressing his general concern he has for him but in essence he writes to tell him he will soon be visiting. I will save more about his letter in later posts.
My aim today... to say how much you mean to me. I think you both would agree that I am an elder... although you might just say old. (:
You are both dear to me. I know I have been telling both of you how to live your life. A, I have been doing that for you going on 20 years and have been quite direct and demanding at times even helping you grow with the help of "eagle power". K, you have only been my daughter for 2-1/2 years. This week you will be 21. You have received 19 years of instruction in one. Looking back I am sure that has been hard to take, and I have hurt you in the process. I have let up on the direct instruction, and have chosen to instruct the two of you together to keep from making you feel attacked.
You are two "whom I love in the truth." I care about who you are and who you will become. So, each day I work to encourage you to follow God's Word by living it out. I try to warn you of false teachings by showing you scripture contrary to what is being taught with in the church and which is accepted by society.
I love you both. You are not only daughters, you are friends. "I hope to see you soon!"
The elder ~Dad
My Dear Friend
III John 1:1... The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth...
In this passage, John writes to a dear friend expressing his general concern he has for him but in essence he writes to tell him he will soon be visiting. I will save more about his letter in later posts.
My aim today... to say how much you mean to me. I think you both would agree that I am an elder... although you might just say old. (:
You are both dear to me. I know I have been telling both of you how to live your life. A, I have been doing that for you going on 20 years and have been quite direct and demanding at times even helping you grow with the help of "eagle power". K, you have only been my daughter for 2-1/2 years. This week you will be 21. You have received 19 years of instruction in one. Looking back I am sure that has been hard to take, and I have hurt you in the process. I have let up on the direct instruction, and have chosen to instruct the two of you together to keep from making you feel attacked.
You are two "whom I love in the truth." I care about who you are and who you will become. So, each day I work to encourage you to follow God's Word by living it out. I try to warn you of false teachings by showing you scripture contrary to what is being taught with in the church and which is accepted by society.
I love you both. You are not only daughters, you are friends. "I hope to see you soon!"
The elder ~Dad
More Thoughts on II John
April 15 2016
More Thoughts
Continuing from Thursdays comments...
A & K, knowing the Word of God is crucial too keep you from being led astray in today's church. The ways taught as good today are the evil ways of the past. (Things like drinking and dancing, acceptance of worldly music, partying, and gambling tear away at the church's foundations by allowing the world to guide us. Open sexuality, acceptance of LBGT and divorce and remarriage have numbed our hearts and minds in the church. It has happened through acceptance...
What is it that is wrong to do today? Is it okay to smoke and drink as a Christian? Are any forms of Gambling wrong... Some say that the small games of chance that fire companies and some churches allow are fine but not things like sports betting and casinos. But that would make it okay for rich folks because they can afford high stakes gambling. TV shows and movies of the past are lauded as good and moral. But they weren't when they came out. The church stood against them! How about sexual things. I remember when divorce was terrible. I remember when being a homosexual was an instant pass to Hell. Pornography was Satan's work. Dance is no longer frowned on in the church, in fact it is encouraged! These things are being accepted in today's church and they should not be! Calvin and Wesley and Menno, fathers of the church, all threw people out of the church for involvement in dancing. Some say today that it depends on the type of dance... go look at the dancing those men were opposed to in the 1500's, they are the ones which the most conservative dancers in the church of today approves of.
Daughters you have it rough... If you are not very close to God, you will be misled by the teachings of most churches and certainly the world. Soon you will see bestiality pushed to become common place. People have already applied to be married to their pets. There is a Man/Boy organization (NAMBLA) for men can have sex with underage boys. Gay clubs and websites for joining up swingers (wife swappping) and I have heard of "christian porn sites. Sin abounds, and it is rampant in the church and becoming acceptable there not just in society. Don't call it sin and all is fine. What are you going to excuse in your life. Stick close to God and live his Word and you will see clearly to live holy and Godly lives. Live for the Lord, my girls.
~Dad
More Thoughts
Continuing from Thursdays comments...
A & K, knowing the Word of God is crucial too keep you from being led astray in today's church. The ways taught as good today are the evil ways of the past. (Things like drinking and dancing, acceptance of worldly music, partying, and gambling tear away at the church's foundations by allowing the world to guide us. Open sexuality, acceptance of LBGT and divorce and remarriage have numbed our hearts and minds in the church. It has happened through acceptance...
What is it that is wrong to do today? Is it okay to smoke and drink as a Christian? Are any forms of Gambling wrong... Some say that the small games of chance that fire companies and some churches allow are fine but not things like sports betting and casinos. But that would make it okay for rich folks because they can afford high stakes gambling. TV shows and movies of the past are lauded as good and moral. But they weren't when they came out. The church stood against them! How about sexual things. I remember when divorce was terrible. I remember when being a homosexual was an instant pass to Hell. Pornography was Satan's work. Dance is no longer frowned on in the church, in fact it is encouraged! These things are being accepted in today's church and they should not be! Calvin and Wesley and Menno, fathers of the church, all threw people out of the church for involvement in dancing. Some say today that it depends on the type of dance... go look at the dancing those men were opposed to in the 1500's, they are the ones which the most conservative dancers in the church of today approves of.
Daughters you have it rough... If you are not very close to God, you will be misled by the teachings of most churches and certainly the world. Soon you will see bestiality pushed to become common place. People have already applied to be married to their pets. There is a Man/Boy organization (NAMBLA) for men can have sex with underage boys. Gay clubs and websites for joining up swingers (wife swappping) and I have heard of "christian porn sites. Sin abounds, and it is rampant in the church and becoming acceptable there not just in society. Don't call it sin and all is fine. What are you going to excuse in your life. Stick close to God and live his Word and you will see clearly to live holy and Godly lives. Live for the Lord, my girls.
~Dad
Thursday, April 14, 2016
II John Conclusion
April 14, 2016
II John Conclusion
The book of II John is not long, only 13 verses, so it is straight to the point and packs a powerful punch. It is a quick warning and exhortation on living life as a Christian. Being so poignant, it is all the more important we listen to his message.
We need to know that as Christians, there are those who go around among us who are led by Satan to destroy the church. They do so by teaching false doctrine. Like Satan, they give partial truths and then add in things contrary to the Word. People hear words that are familiar, and then never hear or just believe the rest. They also tell lies long enough that many believe them. Worse than anything, they appear to be people of faith using the speech and ways of a Christian.
They should be easy to spot. These antichrist add to the Scriptures by having "knowledge" beyond the Bible. They use this to lead people away. They exchange sound doctrine for the ways of the world.
We see this happening today. John tells us to walk in truth and love. He says to walk in obedience is to walk in love. We can find the truth in one location, although it has many parts, I'll break it into three. Many people want to follow the teaching of Christ, that's one - the Gospels. We can expound on the Gospels using the words of those that met Christ, that's two - the letters of the apostles. And finally we can know WWJD (What Jesus Would Do) by reading the Old Testament. We must be obedient in those three areas. (One caution, we must make sure we view the OT in light of the NT).
A & K, knowing the Word of God is crucial too keep you from being led astray in today's church. The ways taught as good today are the evil ways of the past. (Things like drinking and dancing, acceptance of worldly music, partying, and gambling tear away at the church's foundations by allowing the world to guide us. Open sexuality, acceptance of LBGT and divorce and remarriage have numbed our hearts and minds in the church. It has happened through acceptance ...let me talk of that tomorrow... )
Daughters, let me end II John by saying this to you. If you are not going to be led astray. Know your Bible. Study and use it like the Bereans, so the truth never leaves you. Flee the ways of the world and cling to what is Godly. Look at the practices and traditions of past generations and prove from Scripture that they are wrong before you listen to the 60's generation and abandon the ways of the past. Deceivers were in the church in John's day, they are certainly here now... as John wrote, live a life of love in truth and obedience to Christ.
~Dad
II John Conclusion
The book of II John is not long, only 13 verses, so it is straight to the point and packs a powerful punch. It is a quick warning and exhortation on living life as a Christian. Being so poignant, it is all the more important we listen to his message.
We need to know that as Christians, there are those who go around among us who are led by Satan to destroy the church. They do so by teaching false doctrine. Like Satan, they give partial truths and then add in things contrary to the Word. People hear words that are familiar, and then never hear or just believe the rest. They also tell lies long enough that many believe them. Worse than anything, they appear to be people of faith using the speech and ways of a Christian.
They should be easy to spot. These antichrist add to the Scriptures by having "knowledge" beyond the Bible. They use this to lead people away. They exchange sound doctrine for the ways of the world.
We see this happening today. John tells us to walk in truth and love. He says to walk in obedience is to walk in love. We can find the truth in one location, although it has many parts, I'll break it into three. Many people want to follow the teaching of Christ, that's one - the Gospels. We can expound on the Gospels using the words of those that met Christ, that's two - the letters of the apostles. And finally we can know WWJD (What Jesus Would Do) by reading the Old Testament. We must be obedient in those three areas. (One caution, we must make sure we view the OT in light of the NT).
A & K, knowing the Word of God is crucial too keep you from being led astray in today's church. The ways taught as good today are the evil ways of the past. (Things like drinking and dancing, acceptance of worldly music, partying, and gambling tear away at the church's foundations by allowing the world to guide us. Open sexuality, acceptance of LBGT and divorce and remarriage have numbed our hearts and minds in the church. It has happened through acceptance ...let me talk of that tomorrow... )
Daughters, let me end II John by saying this to you. If you are not going to be led astray. Know your Bible. Study and use it like the Bereans, so the truth never leaves you. Flee the ways of the world and cling to what is Godly. Look at the practices and traditions of past generations and prove from Scripture that they are wrong before you listen to the 60's generation and abandon the ways of the past. Deceivers were in the church in John's day, they are certainly here now... as John wrote, live a life of love in truth and obedience to Christ.
~Dad
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
II John 1:12, Face to Face
April 13, 2016
Face to Face
II John 1:12... I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete...
What would John say today... I have much to message you about... I have much to text you... I have much to say, but I don't just want to email you... I have much to say, but Skype just doesn't cut it... I'd tweet you, but it doesn't let me say enough, 144 characters, right? It's just not the same as being there even with today's technology.
John wanted to visit his friends. Paper and ink just wasn't enough. Only seeing each other face to face would cut it. Being together would make it complete. Love can be shared through words but until you are together it is not complete.
This is true spiritually. God has given us his Word. It speaks of his love for us. It helps us and encourages us and strengthens us. But, it is no substitute for seeing him and being with him. It is possible to experience the presence of God now! Through a filling of the Spirit, we can touch God. Drawing close to him will bring satisfaction more than most people ever will in this life. Yet there is still the anticipation that one day we will see Jesus! What a day that will be!
A and K, I sure hope you can't wait to see Jesus. If you aren't ready to see him, The day he returns will be tragic for you and most other people of the world. Sad :(... But if you are ready to see him (: what a glorious day! The love of your life. K, you remember when you were away at college and you couldn't wait to come home to see the love of your life... The day we see Jesus will be much better that. Earthly marriage is only a sampling of what Christ has in store for us... better than the best marriage, wow, Truly a good day and life for eternity!
~Dad
Face to Face
II John 1:12... I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete...
What would John say today... I have much to message you about... I have much to text you... I have much to say, but I don't just want to email you... I have much to say, but Skype just doesn't cut it... I'd tweet you, but it doesn't let me say enough, 144 characters, right? It's just not the same as being there even with today's technology.
John wanted to visit his friends. Paper and ink just wasn't enough. Only seeing each other face to face would cut it. Being together would make it complete. Love can be shared through words but until you are together it is not complete.
This is true spiritually. God has given us his Word. It speaks of his love for us. It helps us and encourages us and strengthens us. But, it is no substitute for seeing him and being with him. It is possible to experience the presence of God now! Through a filling of the Spirit, we can touch God. Drawing close to him will bring satisfaction more than most people ever will in this life. Yet there is still the anticipation that one day we will see Jesus! What a day that will be!
A and K, I sure hope you can't wait to see Jesus. If you aren't ready to see him, The day he returns will be tragic for you and most other people of the world. Sad :(... But if you are ready to see him (: what a glorious day! The love of your life. K, you remember when you were away at college and you couldn't wait to come home to see the love of your life... The day we see Jesus will be much better that. Earthly marriage is only a sampling of what Christ has in store for us... better than the best marriage, wow, Truly a good day and life for eternity!
~Dad
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
II John 1:11, Do Not Join Them, But...
April 12, 2016
Do Not Join Them, But...
I wanted to do a follow up on this verse. What I have to say isn't in the context of I John, but I believe it needs to be said. What I have to say is scriptural but cannot be taken from I John. Also, I will just write what I am thinking, hoping to think of scriptures as I write...
It is true we are not to join them. But who is the them? It is those within the church who profess Christ, yet refuse to stop sinning. It is those who teach false doctrine within the church and work to destroy it. And, it is some people of the world.
It is more than who but why or the way we join worldly people. As mentioned yesterday, we must not join in with sinners. We are not to do the sin they do. When we do, we will be constantly pressured to compromise our beliefs, or convictions for the sake of the business, the marriage, or other venture.
Those who like to compromise and others like to refer to some verses in the Bible and say That Jesus ate and drank with sinners. "The pharisees said he was a glutton and a drunkard, so if Jesus can party them, we can too." This is fool hardy. It is not right to "party" with unbelievers. Nowhere is it recorded that Jesus did that. Being accused of something and actually doing it is different. There are only three or four event recorded where Jesus went to eat with sinners. We know he never got drunk because that is a sin, and he was sinless. If it were so, he could not be our sacrifice and Christianity is a sham, and we are bound for Hell!
No, there were results when Jesus ate with sinners... They became different people. They stood up and confessed their wrongs and declared how they would live differently, they made recompense. (Luke 19:8) Jesus was purposeful in his living. Our presence should help lead sinners out of sin. If we participate in their sin, they are changing us.
We are not called to live away from the world, but to be witnesses in it. If you want to eat with them, invite them to your house and control the environment. When in Tulsa, the family I stayed with was invited next door to eat. They weren't Christians, in fact the man was a former secret service agent! Anyway... while there, the tv was on, and the adults were in the other room and the children and I were together. It didn't take long to see what was on was an R rated movie... all of us were subjected to the filth of the world, it is vivid over 30 years later. We had to go somewhere else and sit.
Daughters, You can't leave this world (I Cor 5:10). You must be willing to be around sinners to be an influence to them, but you must never join in their evil. If you do, you are them. You must be separate in practice and thought. You must never accept what they do. You must stand against their way of life, yet love them and help them find the Lord. And remember... if it wasn't for God's grace... there to go you. ( "There, but for the grace of God, go I" Bradford) You and I would be rotten sinners if we had never met God. So, live among them but never join them in their sin. Help bring them to the Savior.
~Dad
Do Not Join Them, But...
I wanted to do a follow up on this verse. What I have to say isn't in the context of I John, but I believe it needs to be said. What I have to say is scriptural but cannot be taken from I John. Also, I will just write what I am thinking, hoping to think of scriptures as I write...
It is true we are not to join them. But who is the them? It is those within the church who profess Christ, yet refuse to stop sinning. It is those who teach false doctrine within the church and work to destroy it. And, it is some people of the world.
It is more than who but why or the way we join worldly people. As mentioned yesterday, we must not join in with sinners. We are not to do the sin they do. When we do, we will be constantly pressured to compromise our beliefs, or convictions for the sake of the business, the marriage, or other venture.
Those who like to compromise and others like to refer to some verses in the Bible and say That Jesus ate and drank with sinners. "The pharisees said he was a glutton and a drunkard, so if Jesus can party them, we can too." This is fool hardy. It is not right to "party" with unbelievers. Nowhere is it recorded that Jesus did that. Being accused of something and actually doing it is different. There are only three or four event recorded where Jesus went to eat with sinners. We know he never got drunk because that is a sin, and he was sinless. If it were so, he could not be our sacrifice and Christianity is a sham, and we are bound for Hell!
No, there were results when Jesus ate with sinners... They became different people. They stood up and confessed their wrongs and declared how they would live differently, they made recompense. (Luke 19:8) Jesus was purposeful in his living. Our presence should help lead sinners out of sin. If we participate in their sin, they are changing us.
We are not called to live away from the world, but to be witnesses in it. If you want to eat with them, invite them to your house and control the environment. When in Tulsa, the family I stayed with was invited next door to eat. They weren't Christians, in fact the man was a former secret service agent! Anyway... while there, the tv was on, and the adults were in the other room and the children and I were together. It didn't take long to see what was on was an R rated movie... all of us were subjected to the filth of the world, it is vivid over 30 years later. We had to go somewhere else and sit.
Daughters, You can't leave this world (I Cor 5:10). You must be willing to be around sinners to be an influence to them, but you must never join in their evil. If you do, you are them. You must be separate in practice and thought. You must never accept what they do. You must stand against their way of life, yet love them and help them find the Lord. And remember... if it wasn't for God's grace... there to go you. ( "There, but for the grace of God, go I" Bradford) You and I would be rotten sinners if we had never met God. So, live among them but never join them in their sin. Help bring them to the Savior.
~Dad
Monday, April 11, 2016
II John 1:11, Do Not Join Them
April 11, 2016
Do Not Join Them
II John 1:11... Anyone who welcomes him joins in his wicked work...
Back in Proverbs 1, Solomon told his son not to share a "common purse" with the wicked. The son was not to "go along with them" nor "set foot on their path." Solomon instructed him on how useless it is to do so, for their "end is death!"
In the past the BiC church was insistent that there be a separation between the world and the church. There were to be no business partnerships with those of the world. No one was to join a secular organization if they had secret oaths, like the Masons. It was wrong to become "one" with those in who were not Christians, especially in marriage. In fact they had to be from the BiC denomination to marry, which was common in other churches as well at the time.
We see in this passage that John teaches that if we help support those who are evil, especially those teaching falsehood in the church, we join them in doing evil. It is like we are responsible for personally teaching the falsehood. Sort of the same way you are an accomplish to a robbery if you drive the car or even know the plans. We must be careful not to be involved in any way in the spreading doctrine contrary to the Word taught by the apostles.
A & K, what do you involve yourselves with? When you sing a song or watch a movie, dance to an tune or do other things that promotes the world's values - things contrary to the Bible, then you teach others to sin. Do Not Join Them! Choose to separate yourself from the world and live a life pleasing to God by following the commands of Christ. Then you will help lead others to salvation and to holy living and in doing so, you will please your your Heavenly Father. Join in on promoting holy living. Then you will be responsible for helping to spread righteousness and your spirit will be filled.
~Dad
Do Not Join Them
II John 1:11... Anyone who welcomes him joins in his wicked work...
Back in Proverbs 1, Solomon told his son not to share a "common purse" with the wicked. The son was not to "go along with them" nor "set foot on their path." Solomon instructed him on how useless it is to do so, for their "end is death!"
In the past the BiC church was insistent that there be a separation between the world and the church. There were to be no business partnerships with those of the world. No one was to join a secular organization if they had secret oaths, like the Masons. It was wrong to become "one" with those in who were not Christians, especially in marriage. In fact they had to be from the BiC denomination to marry, which was common in other churches as well at the time.
We see in this passage that John teaches that if we help support those who are evil, especially those teaching falsehood in the church, we join them in doing evil. It is like we are responsible for personally teaching the falsehood. Sort of the same way you are an accomplish to a robbery if you drive the car or even know the plans. We must be careful not to be involved in any way in the spreading doctrine contrary to the Word taught by the apostles.
A & K, what do you involve yourselves with? When you sing a song or watch a movie, dance to an tune or do other things that promotes the world's values - things contrary to the Bible, then you teach others to sin. Do Not Join Them! Choose to separate yourself from the world and live a life pleasing to God by following the commands of Christ. Then you will help lead others to salvation and to holy living and in doing so, you will please your your Heavenly Father. Join in on promoting holy living. Then you will be responsible for helping to spread righteousness and your spirit will be filled.
~Dad
Sunday, April 10, 2016
II John 1:8, Don't Lose Your Reward
April 10, 2016
Don't Lose Your Reward
II John 1:8... Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully...
It is easy to lose sight of what God has for us. It is true in the life we are living and also true for what lies ahead after we die. Satan's desire is to make us sleepy as Christians, just going through the motions. He is pleased when we just go to church every Sunday and maybe Wednesday too, while the rest of the week we live without thought to his Word. In getting busy with life, we lose track of what is truly important.
An eternal focus is crucial for continuing in our walk with the Lord. To live out our salvation, is to keep spiritually minded. There is an old saying that is bogus... "he is too spiritually minded to be any earthly good." I know what is meant, but if we are truly spiritually minded, our earthly worth will bring forth great returns here in this life and in the life to come.
My concern is not so much that we lose earthly or even eternal rewards. It isn't that I do not want to receive honor from the Lord, I do. I just don't want to lose the greatest reward... Heaven! We must be careful that the cares of this world and the tricks of Satan and his antichrists do not pull us away from the truth and so begin to follow their lies. It is bad to be complacent and miss being productive for the Lord and lose some gems in our crown, but it is eternally worse to be led astray and lose the greatest reward, eternal life.
A and K, Stay in the Word. Know the truth and do not leave it go. Today's church has lost its spiritual fervor and has become complacent and is not living productive lives for the Lord. You need to be spiritual minded, daughters. It is not enough to attend church once or even twice a week. You must live for Christ all the time. You must be spiritually minded in all areas of your life. When you begin to be complacent, you are on your way to losing your rewards. Take a review of your life often. Be sure you are growing in the Lord, then you can be assured you will not only keep a few thank you's but will be certain that you will hear the greatest reward, "well done my good and faithful servant. Enter into the joys of thy Lord!" Now that is a reward you don't want to lose!
~Dad
Don't Lose Your Reward
II John 1:8... Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully...
It is easy to lose sight of what God has for us. It is true in the life we are living and also true for what lies ahead after we die. Satan's desire is to make us sleepy as Christians, just going through the motions. He is pleased when we just go to church every Sunday and maybe Wednesday too, while the rest of the week we live without thought to his Word. In getting busy with life, we lose track of what is truly important.
An eternal focus is crucial for continuing in our walk with the Lord. To live out our salvation, is to keep spiritually minded. There is an old saying that is bogus... "he is too spiritually minded to be any earthly good." I know what is meant, but if we are truly spiritually minded, our earthly worth will bring forth great returns here in this life and in the life to come.
My concern is not so much that we lose earthly or even eternal rewards. It isn't that I do not want to receive honor from the Lord, I do. I just don't want to lose the greatest reward... Heaven! We must be careful that the cares of this world and the tricks of Satan and his antichrists do not pull us away from the truth and so begin to follow their lies. It is bad to be complacent and miss being productive for the Lord and lose some gems in our crown, but it is eternally worse to be led astray and lose the greatest reward, eternal life.
A and K, Stay in the Word. Know the truth and do not leave it go. Today's church has lost its spiritual fervor and has become complacent and is not living productive lives for the Lord. You need to be spiritual minded, daughters. It is not enough to attend church once or even twice a week. You must live for Christ all the time. You must be spiritually minded in all areas of your life. When you begin to be complacent, you are on your way to losing your rewards. Take a review of your life often. Be sure you are growing in the Lord, then you can be assured you will not only keep a few thank you's but will be certain that you will hear the greatest reward, "well done my good and faithful servant. Enter into the joys of thy Lord!" Now that is a reward you don't want to lose!
~Dad
Saturday, April 9, 2016
II John 1:7, Many Deceivers
April 9, 2016
II John 1:7... Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist...
An antichrist is anyone who purposely teaches falsehoods about Christ. They may deny he came from God or that he was not a man. They may deny his miracles, label him as just a good teacher, or just say he never existed. God came to earth in the flesh. This man was Jesus, the Christ. He was born, although a miraculous birth, lived and died, and came to life again. Jesus is real!
The father of all deceivers, Satan, has convinced many to deny Christ. He has inspired some of them to convince others that Christ is just a story to make us all feel good. We all know people who have believed his lies. But, we must stand and tell the truth about Jesus. Our lives must tell the real story of the God's Son. If we are walking with the world and are doing what they do, we cloud our witness and may deny the truths ourselves.
K and A, who are you telling? Asked differently, how are you telling those God brings into your life that Jesus is real? Do you live in a way that says, "I am a follower of the true Jesus?" Or do you cloud your witness by walking on the wide road. I encourage you to walk the narrow road with Jesus. In doing so, other will see Jesus in you and know that he is real!
~Dad
II John 1:7... Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist...
An antichrist is anyone who purposely teaches falsehoods about Christ. They may deny he came from God or that he was not a man. They may deny his miracles, label him as just a good teacher, or just say he never existed. God came to earth in the flesh. This man was Jesus, the Christ. He was born, although a miraculous birth, lived and died, and came to life again. Jesus is real!
The father of all deceivers, Satan, has convinced many to deny Christ. He has inspired some of them to convince others that Christ is just a story to make us all feel good. We all know people who have believed his lies. But, we must stand and tell the truth about Jesus. Our lives must tell the real story of the God's Son. If we are walking with the world and are doing what they do, we cloud our witness and may deny the truths ourselves.
K and A, who are you telling? Asked differently, how are you telling those God brings into your life that Jesus is real? Do you live in a way that says, "I am a follower of the true Jesus?" Or do you cloud your witness by walking on the wide road. I encourage you to walk the narrow road with Jesus. In doing so, other will see Jesus in you and know that he is real!
~Dad
Friday, April 8, 2016
II John 1:6, Walk in Love
April 8, 2016
II John 1:6... And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love...
Now there is a circuitous statement: to love is to walk in obedience, to be obedient is to walk in love... When Poo and Piglet walk round and round the tree in the snow, they believed they were being joined my others. ? . I say that to say this, true love is hard to come by. Many love for the moment, for a time. We may feel like we are the only ones trying to love others, but similar to Poo and Piglet, we are not alone. We can be confident that God is there with us.
Love must be real. We cannot tell someone we love them and then later change our minds. It is not that we should never have said it, rather, as a Christian, we not only say it, but we live it all the time.
Love must be real. We cannot tell someone we love them and then later change our minds. It is not that we should never have said it, rather, as a Christian, we not only say it, but we live it all the time.
If we love God, we will be obedient to his commands. The major command of God is to love others. Some churches today, and so some Christians, believe that the other commands God spoke and had written down for us are not so important. What we must realize is, the other commands teach us how to love; teach us what love is.
Young ladies, love others. The rules of the Bible are the recipe on how to love. They are the specifics to the general command to love God and to love others. Learn the Word, so you will love properly. By doing so, you will please the Lord and so please me.
~Dad
II John 1:1, Love in Truth
April 7, 2016 on 04-08-16
II John 1:1... To the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in the truth - and not I only, but also all who know the truth - ...
The book of John is one chapter long. It is a letter of warning against those who pervert the truth and so pervert the love of God and the love we have for each other.
We must love in truth. Those who fake their love, do not belong to God. We are called to love one another: for God is love. (I John 4:7) If you think it is hard to love your fellow believer, how will love your neighbor? And if you cannot love your neighbor, how will you ever love your enemy. You may think that loving your enemy is silly, but it is a command of Jesus. We are to have God's character, and if he is love then we need to also be love to others. But why an enemy?
Each of us were an enemy of God, yet he loved us and sent his son to die for us. Jesus willingly gave his life up even though he could have called a legion of angels to rescue him. If the world around each us is to be reconciled to God, we must love them. We can't just be nice to their face, we must love in truth.
K and A, Do you love everyone? When you say you love are you faking it with a pretty smile? You must love in truth and so share the love God has for others. People respond to true love. The only reason I was accepted by students in school was they knew I truly cared. I took interest in them and wanted them to succeed. K, love your clients and care for them. They are special to God. A, be real to those you sing to and to your classmates and teachers. Daughters, love your father and mother, so "it may go well with you. The first commandment with a promise." (Eph. 6:3) Never fake it, love from the heart.
~Dad
II John 1:1... To the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in the truth - and not I only, but also all who know the truth - ...
The book of John is one chapter long. It is a letter of warning against those who pervert the truth and so pervert the love of God and the love we have for each other.
We must love in truth. Those who fake their love, do not belong to God. We are called to love one another: for God is love. (I John 4:7) If you think it is hard to love your fellow believer, how will love your neighbor? And if you cannot love your neighbor, how will you ever love your enemy. You may think that loving your enemy is silly, but it is a command of Jesus. We are to have God's character, and if he is love then we need to also be love to others. But why an enemy?
Each of us were an enemy of God, yet he loved us and sent his son to die for us. Jesus willingly gave his life up even though he could have called a legion of angels to rescue him. If the world around each us is to be reconciled to God, we must love them. We can't just be nice to their face, we must love in truth.
K and A, Do you love everyone? When you say you love are you faking it with a pretty smile? You must love in truth and so share the love God has for others. People respond to true love. The only reason I was accepted by students in school was they knew I truly cared. I took interest in them and wanted them to succeed. K, love your clients and care for them. They are special to God. A, be real to those you sing to and to your classmates and teachers. Daughters, love your father and mother, so "it may go well with you. The first commandment with a promise." (Eph. 6:3) Never fake it, love from the heart.
~Dad
Thursday, April 7, 2016
I John Conclusion
April 6, 2016 on 04-07-16
A and K, here again are the main themes of 1st John:
Attributes of God
General Information
Info on Satan and Followers
What Not to Do
What We Are to Do
We have made it too simple to "accept" Christ. I was instrumental in the salvation of a person a few years back. (the words they, their, them, etc are singular in this post) As I explained the need of God in their life, I told them they must be willing to leave the things of the world behind and to take on the way of Christ described in his word, the Bible. There are thing to do and things not to do as a Christian. They must be willing to give up their old way of life that matches the world.
Overtime they decided that this was what they wanted and began to seek out the ways of the Lord. They told me they were stopping the worlds ways and seeking the way of the cross instead. I could see sparked interest in the Word which showed fruit in their life as they left the world and clung to Christ.
But then over time they began to loose the same interest in the things of God. Sure they did what most do... attend church and participate in some spiritual things, but their fervor, their excitement and specifically their questions ceased. so what happened?..
I find out that there were areas of sin and some things of the world they chose not to give up. This allows the devil to get a foothold, (Eph 4:27) and we cannot shake his grip. Now their life is double faced... their life is mixed with the world and with Godly things. John says this cannot be!
Daughters, if you are listening to the world's music and dancing and partying with it, you will not remain faithful to God. You will struggle and fall. Your passion for Christ and his Word will wane and you will be on a slippery slope trying to live out two lives. Today's church is trying to do this and we are slowly being destroyed. They raise their hands, speak in tongues, sing and faint in the spirit, yet their lives are full of sin. I plead with you to be different. Test the spirits (4:1), as John says, follow the words of the apostles (4:6), and walk in the light so you might be purified from all sin (1:7). Then you will will faithfully walk with Christ and I will be one grateful dad!
~Dad
A and K, here again are the main themes of 1st John:
Attributes of God
General Information
Info on Satan and Followers
What Not to Do
What We Are to Do
We have made it too simple to "accept" Christ. I was instrumental in the salvation of a person a few years back. (the words they, their, them, etc are singular in this post) As I explained the need of God in their life, I told them they must be willing to leave the things of the world behind and to take on the way of Christ described in his word, the Bible. There are thing to do and things not to do as a Christian. They must be willing to give up their old way of life that matches the world.
Overtime they decided that this was what they wanted and began to seek out the ways of the Lord. They told me they were stopping the worlds ways and seeking the way of the cross instead. I could see sparked interest in the Word which showed fruit in their life as they left the world and clung to Christ.
But then over time they began to loose the same interest in the things of God. Sure they did what most do... attend church and participate in some spiritual things, but their fervor, their excitement and specifically their questions ceased. so what happened?..
I find out that there were areas of sin and some things of the world they chose not to give up. This allows the devil to get a foothold, (Eph 4:27) and we cannot shake his grip. Now their life is double faced... their life is mixed with the world and with Godly things. John says this cannot be!
Daughters, if you are listening to the world's music and dancing and partying with it, you will not remain faithful to God. You will struggle and fall. Your passion for Christ and his Word will wane and you will be on a slippery slope trying to live out two lives. Today's church is trying to do this and we are slowly being destroyed. They raise their hands, speak in tongues, sing and faint in the spirit, yet their lives are full of sin. I plead with you to be different. Test the spirits (4:1), as John says, follow the words of the apostles (4:6), and walk in the light so you might be purified from all sin (1:7). Then you will will faithfully walk with Christ and I will be one grateful dad!
~Dad
I John Review: What to Do, Complete
April 5, 2016
What to Do...
A and K, below you is the complete "What to Do" list. from the last few days. All in one place, without your daily exhortation. As you can see, you as a Christian have a lot to do if you want to remain a Christian. Living a life for Christ is not easy. In fact, Christ himself said that before we become a Christian we need to "count the cost" lest he be shown a fool. Will you be found fool hardy? I pray that will not happen.
Look at the list below. Which ones do not seem important to you? Reconsider your stance. John's words are inspired by the Holy Spirit. They are written so you may know how to "keep yourselves" in the faith. (Jude 1:21) You each have a responsibility to do... do the things necessary to walk with the Lord. It is the only way you will make it through to the end. Do it up, I know you can make it!
~Dad
Take note of the order. It has been altered compared to the posting dates and have been rearranged to fit, as best as I could, to the life of a Christian. We need to first begin our walk with the Lord. Then we are to be purify ourselves. This is not to be something we do at a later time it is a necessity at the beginning. In fact the Scriptures say that we are "a new creation, the old has gone and the new has come." Way too many practice and teach that as new Christians we cannot not help but sin. We do new Christians a disservice when we expect them to fail. John says... no one is saved and continues to sin... that is strong. It needs to be our drive and expectation.
What to Do...
A and K, below you is the complete "What to Do" list. from the last few days. All in one place, without your daily exhortation. As you can see, you as a Christian have a lot to do if you want to remain a Christian. Living a life for Christ is not easy. In fact, Christ himself said that before we become a Christian we need to "count the cost" lest he be shown a fool. Will you be found fool hardy? I pray that will not happen.
Look at the list below. Which ones do not seem important to you? Reconsider your stance. John's words are inspired by the Holy Spirit. They are written so you may know how to "keep yourselves" in the faith. (Jude 1:21) You each have a responsibility to do... do the things necessary to walk with the Lord. It is the only way you will make it through to the end. Do it up, I know you can make it!
~Dad
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Love is a crucial aspect of our new life. We love God, his ways and we love others, even our enemies. Love is part of the DNA of a Christian. God is Love, and since we have been adopted into God's family we are to be love to others, It's what we do. It is not our fleshly nature, so we will need to take on the nature of the Spirit to live this out.
Growing up is a necessity. Here is where I give some leeway to sin... When we know a deed or thought is sinful., we must stop doing it! But there are some areas we don't know are sin, because we haven't learned about them yet. (not sure there is any Scripture for what I am saying but I see the concept there). Mature Christians have a responsibility to help others see the truths in the Word to help new believers, and older ones for that matter, so they know what sin. This is the purpose of Sunday school, sermons, radio and TV programs, and revival services. There is where we get exposed the truths God has given. Paul said the law helped him know what sin was. It couldn't keep him from sinning, but it did expose him to God's heart. Many skip the law thinking it is irrelevant. This is a big mistake. Of course, personal Bible study and meditation is crucial for growing up, so we have a responsibility to seek the truths for ourselves.
Part of growing in the Lord is learning what the apostles taught. It is recorder in Acts that thee early disciples committed themselves to the apostles teachings. The New Testament is a record of the life of Christ and the teaching of the apostles. It is sound doctrine of the truth God's new covenant with his people... those redeemed by Christ. The apostles taught that "all Scripture was God breathed." They meant the Old Testament and we include the New as well. What preachers or books or the internet says about God is pointless unless it aligns with the Bible.
When we understand the heart of God found in his word, we want to live it out. There are many things to find there and to try to do all of them is a overwhelming task. Satan can use this to burden us and throw us off, and we begin to focus on the work of God instead of the God of the work. Now I do not see this to be a problem in today's church, but it has been an issue in the past and can easily return. One of the things that the Brethren in Christ and many others have done is to focus on the main point of the Bible and to add in the smaller things as we mature. I concur with this only if we do not minimize the smaller things as being less important. We need to see that the smaller truths of the Bible help us understand how to live out the major truths.
For John, keeping it has to do with keeping to the teaching of the apostles. You must not lose what they have taught. I have found that the way we lose the Biblical teachings is to stop hearing or reading them. Like anything learned, most is lost or forgotten by not continually reviewing the information. Take the French and Indian war for example. What did it have to do with American history? Why do we care if the French and Indians were fighting? Easy to forget those history lessons, because we just don't use the information. (and yes I know they were fighting together against the colonies and England)
As we hold fast to the truths we have learned, we live them out in our lives. Jesus said they will know we are Christian because of our love for one another. He also said to love our enemies, but we must stress the need for Christians to love those in the "household of faith." We must take care of our own and then reach out to others (Gal 6:10). Please note this never excludes taking care of those outside the faith, instead it says we must never neglect our own. We may spend time with other believers, and when they irk us we think they should know better since they are Christians, how could they be so rude, and they call themselves Christians? That is an improper response to being offended. Instead we need to patiently work to understand the problem and to make amends. Note that Jesus said that when we are at the altar to give to the Lord in some way and remember that someone has something against us... we are to go make it right, then come back and offer our promise to the Lord.
Growing up is a necessity. Here is where I give some leeway to sin... When we know a deed or thought is sinful., we must stop doing it! But there are some areas we don't know are sin, because we haven't learned about them yet. (not sure there is any Scripture for what I am saying but I see the concept there). Mature Christians have a responsibility to help others see the truths in the Word to help new believers, and older ones for that matter, so they know what sin. This is the purpose of Sunday school, sermons, radio and TV programs, and revival services. There is where we get exposed the truths God has given. Paul said the law helped him know what sin was. It couldn't keep him from sinning, but it did expose him to God's heart. Many skip the law thinking it is irrelevant. This is a big mistake. Of course, personal Bible study and meditation is crucial for growing up, so we have a responsibility to seek the truths for ourselves.
Part of growing in the Lord is learning what the apostles taught. It is recorder in Acts that thee early disciples committed themselves to the apostles teachings. The New Testament is a record of the life of Christ and the teaching of the apostles. It is sound doctrine of the truth God's new covenant with his people... those redeemed by Christ. The apostles taught that "all Scripture was God breathed." They meant the Old Testament and we include the New as well. What preachers or books or the internet says about God is pointless unless it aligns with the Bible.
When we understand the heart of God found in his word, we want to live it out. There are many things to find there and to try to do all of them is a overwhelming task. Satan can use this to burden us and throw us off, and we begin to focus on the work of God instead of the God of the work. Now I do not see this to be a problem in today's church, but it has been an issue in the past and can easily return. One of the things that the Brethren in Christ and many others have done is to focus on the main point of the Bible and to add in the smaller things as we mature. I concur with this only if we do not minimize the smaller things as being less important. We need to see that the smaller truths of the Bible help us understand how to live out the major truths.
There are a few themes, so let me mention some and then concentrate on John's theme for today... God is slow to anger and abounding in love... Christ is the only way for forgiveness of sin... Love the Lord with all your heart and love you neighbor as yourself... And John's (which most churches do not mention)... Be Different than the world.
To stop sinning, we must overcome the world, Christ did. He was not like the world nor did he sin. We find nowhere in the Scriptures that Jesus went to the public baths, partied in the Roman temples, or went to the plays at the theater. If we are to overcome sin, we must separate ourselves from the world. Now what that does not mean needs to be understood. When Christ prayed for his disciples, he prayed that God would not take them out of the world, but that he would protect them from the evil in the world. We only separate ourselves from the practices of the world not the people of the world. What gives them pleasure should not be what brings us pleasure. The things associated with sinfulness, we should disassociate ourselves from.
There is a big and growing movement that says we don't need anyone to teach us what is right and wrong because the Spirit will tell each one. After all, the Bible even says in both the Old and New Testament that I will place my words in their hearts and that his Spirit will teach them. This movement is dangerous and will lead many astray. The problem? Too many will trust any feeling that inspires them. Without holding value to being "separate from the world" to check the authenticity of the spirit, they are mindlessly following anything and calling it Spirit inspired. John says to test the spirits, so we are not led astray. This is done through careful comparison to the Word of God.
For John, keeping it has to do with keeping to the teaching of the apostles. You must not lose what they have taught. I have found that the way we lose the Biblical teachings is to stop hearing or reading them. Like anything learned, most is lost or forgotten by not continually reviewing the information. Take the French and Indian war for example. What did it have to do with American history? Why do we care if the French and Indians were fighting? Easy to forget those history lessons, because we just don't use the information. (and yes I know they were fighting together against the colonies and England)
The point is that we must know what information is important and then review it in order to not repeat the mistakes of the past. Of the most important is spiritual matters which are found in the scriptures. Unless we desire to know the Word of God, we will not remember what it says, and we will repeat the same sins of the people of the past. Romans 15:4 says it this way... For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Therefor, Christians must study and meditate on God's Word if they are to keep to the teachings of Christ and his apostles and to the commands and laws of the Lord.
One of the Ten Commandments is to not make a graven image of anything in creation to worship. (btw, most christians only believe in nine of the commandments including most anyone that reads this) In order to love God with heart, mind, and soul, we cannot replace him or even add in others on his level. Who or what do we trust with our safety? What do we count on to give us peace and hope? Where do we turn when we have conflict? Many turn to guns, yoga, alcohol, some to drugs, and others to counselors and now in an election cycle we see promises that if we trust this politician all will be well. We must keep from trusting in anything that takes the place of God.
As we hold fast to the truths we have learned, we live them out in our lives. Jesus said they will know we are Christian because of our love for one another. He also said to love our enemies, but we must stress the need for Christians to love those in the "household of faith." We must take care of our own and then reach out to others (Gal 6:10). Please note this never excludes taking care of those outside the faith, instead it says we must never neglect our own. We may spend time with other believers, and when they irk us we think they should know better since they are Christians, how could they be so rude, and they call themselves Christians? That is an improper response to being offended. Instead we need to patiently work to understand the problem and to make amends. Note that Jesus said that when we are at the altar to give to the Lord in some way and remember that someone has something against us... we are to go make it right, then come back and offer our promise to the Lord.
Included in this is prayer. Praying for each other helps us to love each other. This is true unless we have a demented prayer like the publican who said I am glad I am not a sinner like that man over there... We need to pray for the benefit of others that they may be blessed by God. We desire the success of those we love.
Safety is a big issue today. We rely on lots of devices to keep safe. From clothing to airbags to security systems, our protection is a concern. We desire to keep danger from affecting our personal safety. With break-ins seemingly everywhere, home security systems are the rage. Wireless installations and monitoring services make security effortless and reliable. If this is so necessary in our physical world why do people forget to protect their spiritual lives?
Spiritual safety is more important that the physical. If someone steals our stuff, it can be replaced. Even though our body can be harmed, that is only temporary, but the spiritual is eternal!
Many think we cannot protect our salvation. Like all of Satan's deceptions, that is partly true. On our own, we fail, but with Christ, we succeed. In fact, through out the Scripture we find instructions on how to protect your faith. Since the stories of the Bible were written to help us we can learn from them.
Examples:
- Adam and Eve... Teaches us to admit when we are wrong and not to pass the blame on others
- Cane and Able... God tells Cain to master sin before it master him, he didn't listen :(
- Jacob wrestled all night with the Angle of the Lord... Keep up the struggle, don't give up
- Joseph ran from Potipher's wife... Run from the enticements of temptation
- David was cut to the heart by the prophet Nathan... When faced with your sin, it should bring guilt and conviction.
- Israelites told not to marry outside their religion... Protected the ways of the world from becoming theirs. sadly they didn't listen and they became like the world around them. :(
- Our Spiritual Armor... Told to put it on so we can protect our salvation against the devil's attacks
- Attend church... You can be encouraged by others
Monday, April 4, 2016
I John Review: What to Do, Part 6
April 04, 2016
What to Do...
What to Do...
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Safety is a big issue today. We rely on lots of devices to keep safe. From clothing to airbags to security systems, our protection is a concern. We desire to keep danger from affecting our personal safety. With break-ins seemingly everywhere, home security systems are the rage. Wireless installations and monitoring services make security effortless and reliable. If this is so necessary in our physical world why do people forget to protect their spiritual lives?
Spiritual safety is more important that the physical. If someone steals our stuff, it can be replaced. Even though our body can be harmed, that is only temporary, but the spiritual is eternal!
Many think we cannot protect our salvation. Like all of Satan's deceptions, that is partly true. On our own, we fail, but with Christ, we succeed. In fact, through out the Scripture we find instructions on how to protect your faith. Since the stories of the Bible were written to help us we can learn from them.
Examples:
- Adam and Eve... Teaches us to admit when we are wrong and not to pass the blame on others
- Cane and Able... God tells Cain to master sin before it master him, he didn't listen :(
- Jacob wrestled all night with the Angle of the Lord... Keep up the struggle, don't give up
- Joseph ran from Potipher's wife... Run from the enticements of temptation
- David was cut to the heart by the prophet Nathan... When faced with your sin, it should bring guilt and conviction.
- Israelites told not to marry outside their religion... Protected the ways of the world from becoming theirs. sadly they didn't listen and they became like the world around them. :(
- Our Spiritual Armor... Told to put it on so we can protect our salvation against the devil's attacks
- Attend church... You can be encouraged by others
A and K, you wear clothes, that is good. It covers and protects you. But be sure to put on your spiritual clothes and so protect the most important, your spiritual destiny. You have a duty to live in such a way that you maintain your salvation. Do not be like Israel who took on the ways of the world and lost their place with God. Daughters, stay in the Word and flee the pull of those around you who love the easy things of life so you can keep yourselves safe!
~Dad
Sunday, April 3, 2016
I John Review: What to Do, Part 5
April 03, 2016
What to Do...
As we hold fast to the truths we have learned, we live them out in our lives. Jesus said they will know we are Christian because of our love for one another. He also said to love our enemies, but we must stress the need for Christians to love those in the "household of faith." We must take care of our own and then reach out to others (Gal 6:10). Please note this never excludes taking care of those outside the faith, instead it says we must never neglect our own. We may spend time with other believers, and when they irk us we think they should know better since they are Christians, how could they be so rude, and they call themselves Christians? That is an improper response to being offended. Instead we need to patiently work to understand the problem and to make amends. Note that Jesus said that when we are at the altar to give to the Lord in some way and remember that someone has something against us... we are to go make it right, then come back and offer our promise to the Lord.
What to Do...
|
Included in this is prayer. Praying for each other helps us to love each other. This is true unless we have a demented prayer like the publican who said I am glad I am not a sinner like that man over there... We need to pray for the benefit of others that they may be blessed by God. We desire the success of those we love.
K and A, I pray for you because I love you both. I desire God's blessing to settle on you and bring you peace and joy. I care how you live your life, because I want God to be pleased with you. It is one thing to know God loves you, but it is better to know that he is pleased with you. It is a dad's greatest joy to know that as well. Daughter's love each other and those in the family of God. Pray for them and that they succeed in life even if it means they elevate past you. This is an area where we find joy when we carry it out for we sense the approval of God.
~Dad
I John Review: What to Do, Part 4
April 02, 2016 on 04-03-16
What to Do...
For John, keeping it has to do with keeping to the teaching of the apostles. You must not lose what they have taught. I have found that the way we lose the Biblical teachings is to stop hearing or reading them. Like anything learned, most is lost or forgotten by not continually reviewing the information. Take the French and Indian war for example. What did it have to do with American history? Why do we care if the French and Indians were fighting? Easy to forget those history lessons, because we just don't use the information. (and yes I know they were fighting together against the colonies and England)
What to Do...
|
The point is that we must know what information is important and then review it in order to not repeat the mistakes of the past. Of the most important is spiritual matters which are found in the scriptures. Unless we desire to know the Word of God, we will not remember what it says, and we will repeat the same sins of the people of the past. Romans 15:4 says it this way... For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Therefor, Christians must study and meditate on God's Word if they are to keep to the teachings of Christ and his apostles and to the commands and laws of the Lord.
One of the Ten Commandments is to not make a graven image of anything in creation to worship. (btw, most christians only believe in nine of the commandments including most anyone that reads this) In order to love God with heart, mind, and soul, we cannot replace him or even add in others on his level. Who or what do we trust with our safety? What do we count on to give us peace and hope? Where do we turn when we have conflict? Many turn to guns, yoga, alcohol, some to drugs, and others to counselors and now in an election cycle we see promises that if we trust this politician all will be well. We must keep from trusting in anything that takes the place of God.
Daughters, are you keeping to the teaching of the apostles. If you aren't studying the Bible, both with others and on your own, you are not doing so adequately. Being in the Word draws you closer to God and when you do so, not only will your love for him grow, your love for him will cause you to want to please him by obeying what you have learned he expects in the life of a Christian. Then you will be caught in a wonderful cycle of desiring more of him, so you will study more about him and closer to him you will become and your love for him will grow even more. A an K, it is my desire for you to know God and to obedient to him. Keep what you have learned from me so you may continue to love him even more.
~Dad
Saturday, April 2, 2016
I John Review: What to Do, Part 3
April 01, 2016
What to Do...
When we understand the heart of God found in his word, we want to live it out. There are many things to find there and to try to do all of them is a overwhelming task. Satan can use this to burden us and throw us off, and we begin to focus on the work of God instead of the God of the work. Now I do not see this to be a problem in today's church, but it has been an issue in the past and can easily return. One of the things that the Brethren in Christ and many others have done is to focus on the main point of the Bible and to add in the smaller things as we mature. I concur with this only if we do not minimize the smaller things as being less important. We need to see that the smaller truths of the Bible help us understand how to live out the major truths.
What to Do...
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There are a few themes, so let me mention some and then concentrate on John's theme for today... God is slow to anger and abounding in love... Christ is the only way for forgiveness of sin... Love the Lord with all your heart and love you neighbor as yourself... And John's (which most churches do not mention)... Be Different than the world.
To stop sinning, we must overcome the world, Christ did. He was not like the world nor did he sin. We find nowhere in the Scriptures that Jesus went to the public baths, partied in the Roman temples, or went to the plays at the theater. If we are to overcome sin, we must separate ourselves from the world. Now what that does not mean needs to be understood. When Christ prayed for his disciples, he prayed that God would not take them out of the world, but that he would protect them from the evil in the world. We only separate ourselves from the practices of the world not the people of the world. What gives them pleasure should not be what brings us pleasure. The things associated with sinfulness, we should disassociate ourselves from.
There is a big and growing movement that says we don't need anyone to teach us what is right and wrong because the Spirit will tell each one. After all, the Bible even says in both the Old and New Testament that I will place my words in their hearts and that his Spirit will teach them. This movement is dangerous and will lead many astray. The problem? Too many will trust any feeling that inspires them. Without holding value to being "separate from the world" to check the authenticity of the spirit, they are mindlessly following anything and calling it Spirit inspired. John says to test the spirits, so we are not led astray. This is done through careful comparison to the Word of God.
A and K, flee the pleasures of this world. Its music, its ideas of fun, and its ways of finding happiness. These are fleeting and will bring sin to your door, and Satan will use it to trap you. When you are caught up in their ways, it will be hard to resist the temptation they brings. I have found that when temptations are the strongest, I have become too close to the things of the world. TV and the internet bring the world into our lives without any effort on our part. It diminishes our resistance and tears down our holiness. I delete objectionable posts on Facebook, things like objectionable pictures, bad language, including abbreviations, and the like to help sinful things from being common to me. What will you do to overcome the world and to keep sin from your infiltrating your lives. Test yourselves and the spirits that tells you things of this world are good, so you can keep from sin.
~Dad
~Dad
Friday, April 1, 2016
I John Review: What to Do, Part 2
March 31, 2016
What to Do...
What to Do...
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Love is a crucial aspect of our new life. We love God, his ways and we love others, even our enemies. Love is part of the DNA of a Christian. God is Love, and since we have been adopted into God's family we are to be love to others, It's what we do. It is not our fleshly nature, so we will need to take on the nature of the Spirit to live this out.
Growing up is a necessity. Here is where I give some leeway to sin... When we know a deed or thought is sinful., we must stop doing it! But there are some areas we do not know are sin, because we haven't learned about them yet. (not sure there is any Scripture for what I am saying but I see the concept there). Mature Christians have a responsibility to help others see the truths in the Word to help new believers, and older ones for that matter, so they know what sin is. This is the purpose of Sunday school, sermons, radio and TV programs, and revival services. There is where we get exposed the truths God has given. Paul said the law helped him know what sin was. It couldn't keep him from sinning, but it did expose him to God's heart. Many skip the reading law and other parts of the Old Testament thinking it is irrelevant. This is a big mistake. We must not miss what God taught his people about his ways for them. Of course, personal Bible study and meditation is crucial for growing up as well, so we have a responsibility to seek the truths for ourselves.
Part of growing in the Lord is learning what the apostles taught. It is recorder in Acts that the early believers committed themselves to the apostles teachings. The New Testament is a record of the life of Christ and the teaching of the apostles. It is sound doctrine of the truth, God's new covenant with his people... those redeemed by Christ. The apostles taught that "all Scripture was God breathed." They meant the Old Testament and we include the New as well. What preachers or books or the internet says about God is pointless unless it aligns with the Bible.
So daughters, study God's word on your own. Then you will not be lead astray by the false teachings found in the church today. Nor will you be lead astray by the ways of the world. Its desires and pleasures are not for you. Seek God's way instead and find his purpose and will for your life. Through his Word, he will show you how to love... to be Christ to the world around you.
~Dad
Growing up is a necessity. Here is where I give some leeway to sin... When we know a deed or thought is sinful., we must stop doing it! But there are some areas we do not know are sin, because we haven't learned about them yet. (not sure there is any Scripture for what I am saying but I see the concept there). Mature Christians have a responsibility to help others see the truths in the Word to help new believers, and older ones for that matter, so they know what sin is. This is the purpose of Sunday school, sermons, radio and TV programs, and revival services. There is where we get exposed the truths God has given. Paul said the law helped him know what sin was. It couldn't keep him from sinning, but it did expose him to God's heart. Many skip the reading law and other parts of the Old Testament thinking it is irrelevant. This is a big mistake. We must not miss what God taught his people about his ways for them. Of course, personal Bible study and meditation is crucial for growing up as well, so we have a responsibility to seek the truths for ourselves.
Part of growing in the Lord is learning what the apostles taught. It is recorder in Acts that the early believers committed themselves to the apostles teachings. The New Testament is a record of the life of Christ and the teaching of the apostles. It is sound doctrine of the truth, God's new covenant with his people... those redeemed by Christ. The apostles taught that "all Scripture was God breathed." They meant the Old Testament and we include the New as well. What preachers or books or the internet says about God is pointless unless it aligns with the Bible.
So daughters, study God's word on your own. Then you will not be lead astray by the false teachings found in the church today. Nor will you be lead astray by the ways of the world. Its desires and pleasures are not for you. Seek God's way instead and find his purpose and will for your life. Through his Word, he will show you how to love... to be Christ to the world around you.
~Dad
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