Sin = a transgression of God's divine law.
(most common definition, fits Christianity, Judaism, Islam)
Question: Groups without a Sovereign deity? (Hindu, Buddhist)
Answer = Sin still a violation of a Moral Code - almost universal - even secularists and atheists recognize right and wrong - may not call it "sin".
Biblical View: 1) divine law(s) exist
2) God has revealed (some of) them to us - through His deeds, prophets, apostles, Jesus Christ, Word. They are a part of who God is - Eternal, non-changing
3) Obedience to those laws results in good - for individual, nation, for mankind as a whole - (not necessarily immediate results)
4) Violation of those laws is sin - (is harmful, detrimental)
We often downplay the seriousness of sin. Scripture does NOT!!!! (the word is used over 1,000 times plus additional words, phrases, descriptions, examples, etc.) - God doesn't LAUGH at sin!!
Over the next couple weeks = a view of Sin from Scripture
Today: The Nature of Sin ie: sin's character, qualities, description. Its makeup, composition, essence.
What makes it sin? What is the stuff sin is made of?
This is a broad subject! Therefore, we have a simple overview!
#1. the most common word in New Testament Greek = literally to miss the mark - Rom. 3:23.
We don't live up to God's plan, design for us.
BUT, that only touches the surface.....
#2. Error, Deviation - stepping out, aside, away. More than wander, stray = knowingly choose wrong path.
Often translated - "transgress, trespass" - Mark 11:25 - sometimes is just a thought.
#3. Unbelief - the word for faith in the Greek is pistis. Many times an "a" was added to the front of a word to mean the exact opposite. Therefore apistia = un-faith, un belief
The problem = willful ie: refusal to believe - Heb. 3:16-19 - belief is something we do with head, heart, and hands.
#4. Refusal
Rom. 1:18, 21 - refused to acknowledge
2 Thess. 2:9-10 - refused to love, accept, embrace
Acts 7:51 - resistance (holding back), refusal, rebellion
#5. Lawlessness - (again - alpha prefix)
Nomos = law
Anomos = no law, without law, against the law! - in defiance of the law! Matt. 24:9-12 Matt. 24:12 - NASB
#6. Disobedience - aKoo'o - to hear
- hupakoo o - to obey (because really hear!!)
The word for refusal to hear is translated - "disobedience".
Illustrated in: Matt. 13:14-15 and John 9:41 - may hear the words but don't hear the message.
Point: sin IS "missing the mark" - but way more. Often = because we don't want to ht the mark!! Don't like the rule, standard, law!!
If that = the nature of Sin ... (its makeup, stuff), THEN what are its EFFECTS?? (it's produce, product, outcome, result?)
(Briefly --- from Old Testament word pictures...)
Sin is seen to:
Mark, mar, blemish ---- to deface, to make crooked, to bend, twist, distort, to deform, to pervert, to make unsuitable, unacceptable, unusable.
Example: Titus 3:10-11
Quick Application: Gen. 1:27
Point: Sin is Serious Stuff
On one hand, might laugh, joke in the aftermath of danger. However, recognize the need serious concentration and effort while dealing with it.
We ought, therefore, to: 1) watch out - (pay attention, be careful, be on guard)
2) Confess (recognize, admit) - don't try to fool yourself
3) Embrace the Remedy - ie: Christ - 1 Pet. 2:24, 2 Cor. 5:21
4) Take responsibility
Monday, February 20, 2017
Monday, February 13, 2017
Reciprocal Relationship
2 Timothy = pastoral epistle and prison epistle. Therefore = Paul's "last words" to Timothy.
Already looked at Paul's words concerning: personal development
evangelism
discipleship
ie: things Timothy needed to do in order to develop himself, his ministry, his effectiveness.
Now - look at things Timothy can do for Paul!! 2 Tim. 4:9-22
Examples:
1) come to me ....quickly ... before winter
2) bring Mark! (John Mark who wrote the gospel of Mark)
3) bring my cloak and scrolls - studies, scriptures
4) greet the brothers and sisters on my behalf
Additional words from other prison epistles
Eph. 6:19-20 - Pray for me - in prison
Col. 4:18 - remember my chains - in prison
Ask ourselves:
1) What does this say about Paul? - WASM
2) What does this say to us?? - ISM
A few observations about Paul:
#1. He was human - who has surrendered himself to God and was sold out to Him.
easy to forget or overlook because he was the great Apostle Paul, but -->James 5:17-18. Elijah was just like us.
#2. He had typical human needs
examples: a cloak for the body, scrolls for the mind, companionship for the heart, soul (relational needs), assistance for the ministry, prayer for strength, courage, delivery. To know he was not forgotten.....that his work mattered, that he mattered.
#3. He was not above asking for human help in meeting those needs.
So, on the one hand, Phil. 4:13, however, the recognition that sometimes Christ provides that strength through people!!!
So, What's this say to us? Application? Isms?
This passage not teaching something we don't know... rather, illustrating and re-enforcing things we do know!!!
#1. we're all pretty much in the same boat.
ie. human, with human needs and human shortcomings. 1 Cor. 10:13 - "common to man"
But we also have human gifts, talents, abilities, resources... Contributions!!
Point: You are both a liability and an asset.
#2. We need One Another.
On one hand, Timothy wouldn't be who he was without Paul. However, Paul wouldn't be who he was without Timothy. 2 Tim. 1:4 -->adding TO Paul!!
Point: this = a Reciprocal Relationship - by God's Design!!!
#3. "We're better together" - (borrowed quote)
examples: as a couple, family, friendship, small group, church, community, denomination, parachurch group, etc.)
idea of "body" - 1 Cor. 12:12, 14-20
Summary #1 - to our congregation: (if you are called to OBC) WE NEED YOU - here and functioning
Summary #2 - (if you are called to OBC) YOU NEED US!!! - here and functioning
#4. Sometimes God gives an awareness of Himself through people (ie: His Presence, concern, holding, healing)
This works 2 ways: You may experience Him through other people. But, others may experience His Presence through you!! Therefore, need of the body, gathering, your ministry.
God works through His people - all of whom are potential vessels.
Already looked at Paul's words concerning: personal development
evangelism
discipleship
ie: things Timothy needed to do in order to develop himself, his ministry, his effectiveness.
Now - look at things Timothy can do for Paul!! 2 Tim. 4:9-22
Examples:
1) come to me ....quickly ... before winter
2) bring Mark! (John Mark who wrote the gospel of Mark)
3) bring my cloak and scrolls - studies, scriptures
4) greet the brothers and sisters on my behalf
Additional words from other prison epistles
Eph. 6:19-20 - Pray for me - in prison
Col. 4:18 - remember my chains - in prison
Ask ourselves:
1) What does this say about Paul? - WASM
2) What does this say to us?? - ISM
A few observations about Paul:
#1. He was human - who has surrendered himself to God and was sold out to Him.
easy to forget or overlook because he was the great Apostle Paul, but -->James 5:17-18. Elijah was just like us.
#2. He had typical human needs
examples: a cloak for the body, scrolls for the mind, companionship for the heart, soul (relational needs), assistance for the ministry, prayer for strength, courage, delivery. To know he was not forgotten.....that his work mattered, that he mattered.
#3. He was not above asking for human help in meeting those needs.
So, on the one hand, Phil. 4:13, however, the recognition that sometimes Christ provides that strength through people!!!
So, What's this say to us? Application? Isms?
This passage not teaching something we don't know... rather, illustrating and re-enforcing things we do know!!!
#1. we're all pretty much in the same boat.
ie. human, with human needs and human shortcomings. 1 Cor. 10:13 - "common to man"
But we also have human gifts, talents, abilities, resources... Contributions!!
Point: You are both a liability and an asset.
#2. We need One Another.
On one hand, Timothy wouldn't be who he was without Paul. However, Paul wouldn't be who he was without Timothy. 2 Tim. 1:4 -->adding TO Paul!!
Point: this = a Reciprocal Relationship - by God's Design!!!
#3. "We're better together" - (borrowed quote)
examples: as a couple, family, friendship, small group, church, community, denomination, parachurch group, etc.)
idea of "body" - 1 Cor. 12:12, 14-20
Summary #1 - to our congregation: (if you are called to OBC) WE NEED YOU - here and functioning
Summary #2 - (if you are called to OBC) YOU NEED US!!! - here and functioning
#4. Sometimes God gives an awareness of Himself through people (ie: His Presence, concern, holding, healing)
This works 2 ways: You may experience Him through other people. But, others may experience His Presence through you!! Therefore, need of the body, gathering, your ministry.
God works through His people - all of whom are potential vessels.
Monday, February 6, 2017
Study of 2nd. Timothy - Discipleship
2 Tim. = "last words" - Paul is in Roman prison in Rome awaiting execution
1st. two weeks covered - Personal Lifestyle - (growth, development)
then - Evangelism - (every Christian's duty) - WASMs and ISMs
Today: Discipleship
noun - a disciple (from Latin word for pupil) = a student (learner)
BUT more than just a pupil - adherent, imitator. Example: John the Baptist's disciples - became imitators of John, practitioners of his messages
Verb = to disciple = to teach, instruct, but more than sharing facts.
= (an attempt) to develop, equip, train - not always successful. Example: Jesus and Judas Iscariot -
all great leaders who disciple people will have miserable failures.
Concept in Scripture: - Paul - Col. 2:6-7 - to disciple = (attempt) to promote this process
Eph. 4:11-14 - point here = He gave people to develop people for works of service. Someone solid, firm in Christ.
2 Tim.1:13-14, 2 Tim. 2:2 - Pattern This = why we go back to the original teachers.
Could use this order: Timothy -
1) learn these truths
2) keep these truths - (hold to, practice)
3) guard these truths - (stronger word than "keep")
4) entrust these truths to reliable men, who will be qualified to teach others.
(vs. 2)
So --- how to? what's it take?
#1. Intentionality - must decide, determine to be a part of discipleship
#2. Knowledge Objection: Problem? - I don't know anything or I don't know enough.
Answer: Impart what you do know. You know more than somebody.
Note: Discipling is more than teaching doctrinal truths
Also = teaching practical application of those truths. - builds disciples
#3. Time - if don't spend time with someone, won't happen - biggest reason we have no time - taking care of self!
Settings: #1. family - best one
#2. formal discipling - formal training
#3. intentional friendships
#4. church - AWANA, Sunday School, Sunday night!, youth, attendance
Outcome? on one hand, no guarantee that will have a success.
However, the Great Commission, Matt. 28:18-20 - promise of His presence, assistance found within this passage. Won't go alone.
(point = may not be successful, will be blessed!!)
Why so important? urgent?
#1. this is REDEMPTIVE TRUTH
2 Tim. 3:14-15
These truths affect - a) your eternal state (after life)
also b) your present state (life now)
and c) the social state (society, culture)
#2. Paul is not going to be around to proclaim, teach it. 2 Tim. 4;5-7
Each generation must accept responsibility for discipling the next generation.
to this we are called!! - Matt. 28:18-20
THE GREAT COMMISSION: 1) a charge, a command, an order which includes
2) authority (backing)
and 3) trust
1st. two weeks covered - Personal Lifestyle - (growth, development)
then - Evangelism - (every Christian's duty) - WASMs and ISMs
Today: Discipleship
noun - a disciple (from Latin word for pupil) = a student (learner)
BUT more than just a pupil - adherent, imitator. Example: John the Baptist's disciples - became imitators of John, practitioners of his messages
Verb = to disciple = to teach, instruct, but more than sharing facts.
= (an attempt) to develop, equip, train - not always successful. Example: Jesus and Judas Iscariot -
all great leaders who disciple people will have miserable failures.
Concept in Scripture: - Paul - Col. 2:6-7 - to disciple = (attempt) to promote this process
Eph. 4:11-14 - point here = He gave people to develop people for works of service. Someone solid, firm in Christ.
2 Tim.1:13-14, 2 Tim. 2:2 - Pattern This = why we go back to the original teachers.
Could use this order: Timothy -
1) learn these truths
2) keep these truths - (hold to, practice)
3) guard these truths - (stronger word than "keep")
4) entrust these truths to reliable men, who will be qualified to teach others.
(vs. 2)
So --- how to? what's it take?
#1. Intentionality - must decide, determine to be a part of discipleship
#2. Knowledge Objection: Problem? - I don't know anything or I don't know enough.
Answer: Impart what you do know. You know more than somebody.
Note: Discipling is more than teaching doctrinal truths
Also = teaching practical application of those truths. - builds disciples
#3. Time - if don't spend time with someone, won't happen - biggest reason we have no time - taking care of self!
Settings: #1. family - best one
#2. formal discipling - formal training
#3. intentional friendships
#4. church - AWANA, Sunday School, Sunday night!, youth, attendance
Outcome? on one hand, no guarantee that will have a success.
However, the Great Commission, Matt. 28:18-20 - promise of His presence, assistance found within this passage. Won't go alone.
(point = may not be successful, will be blessed!!)
Why so important? urgent?
#1. this is REDEMPTIVE TRUTH
2 Tim. 3:14-15
These truths affect - a) your eternal state (after life)
also b) your present state (life now)
and c) the social state (society, culture)
#2. Paul is not going to be around to proclaim, teach it. 2 Tim. 4;5-7
Each generation must accept responsibility for discipling the next generation.
to this we are called!! - Matt. 28:18-20
THE GREAT COMMISSION: 1) a charge, a command, an order which includes
2) authority (backing)
and 3) trust
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Study of 2nd. Timothy continued - Evangelism
2nd. Timothy = final instructions, last words from the Apostle Paul to Timothy, his son in the faith.
Last 2 weeks - dealt with Personal lifestyle and development because can't build the "peak" without the "foundation"
Today - Paul's words to Timothy concerning Evangelism.
The English work = take off from the Greek noun - translated the evangel - meaning the message, good news, gospel. From the old English - Godspel - good tale, story
Greek verb - to evangelize - (declare, proclaim) - the evangelist - the one who declares, shares, tell the tale
1. Paul was a herald of the good news (Evangelist).
2. His words to Timothy = "do likewise"
3. The New Testament is clear - we also should "do likewise" (all Christians)
Before we look at Paul's words to Timothy (concerning Evangelism), let's look at evangelism generally:
1) Definition of Evangelism is telling the story - Acts 8:34-35 - Example: Phillip and the Enunuch
ie: bridge illustration, wordless book, Roman road, etc.
2) All Christians are responsible to tell the story. (Great Commission - Matt. 28:18-20)
BUT, 3) There are many ways to tell the story!
LIST - Methods of Personal Evangelism done intentionally
1. Preaching Evangelism
2. Confrontational Evangelism
Example: Billy Graham, D.L. Moody - these two = the most commonly known - most aggressive form of evangelism.
3. Teaching Evangelism - AWANA, Bible Time, Day Camp, etc.
4. Testimonial Evangelism - how you encountered God in a particular setting
5. Ministry Evangelism - helping people in some form with hopeful purpose of sharing the gospel - however, can't JUST do good deeds and helpful things. Must be some form of verbal presentation of the gospel message.
6. Relational Evangelism - building friendships in order to share gospel - 70% say friendship was instrumental in their coming to Christ
7. Family Evangelism - parents leading children to Christ
8. Lifestyle Evangelism -
9. Discipling Evangelism - not only after salvation but many times before
10. Conversational Evangelism
11. Invitational Evangelism - inviting people to something where gospel is going to be presented
12. Tract/Literature Evangelism
13. Child Evangelism - 43% come to Christ before age 13, 56 % before age 18 77 % before age 21. After 21 percentage drops way down.
14. Prayer Evangelism - prayer for person to be saved. However, can't expect salvation without a presentation of the message.
Remember: it's not our job to win people to Christ - that's God's job - Our job is to present the gospel message.
Paul's words to Timothy (concerning Evangelism)
#1. 2 Tim. 1:8 - Don't be ashamed - why the hesitancy?? Maybe because message is offensive? exclusive?? - Jesus is the only way. Simple? (therefore "foolishness") Spiritual opposition?
Whatever the reason - it's there!! 1 Cor. 2:3 - Apostle Paul. But, also - Rom. 1:16 - the means by which people find God.
Note: 2 Tim. 1:6-8
#2. 2 Tim. 2:8-9 - Remember Jesus Christ raised from the dead
1) Resurrection = central to the gospel - can't have gospel message without the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
2) We are not proclaiming a dead Savior, we are proclaiming a Living LORD!! - Rev. 1:17-18
Not serving the memory of a guy, but a risen LORD,
#3. 2 Tim. 4:3-5 - Do the work of an evangelist -
Note: a) it = WORK
b) why Timothy needs to do it = 2 Tim. 4:6-7
Point: each generation is responsible to reach the next generation!!!
Last 2 weeks - dealt with Personal lifestyle and development because can't build the "peak" without the "foundation"
Today - Paul's words to Timothy concerning Evangelism.
The English work = take off from the Greek noun - translated the evangel - meaning the message, good news, gospel. From the old English - Godspel - good tale, story
Greek verb - to evangelize - (declare, proclaim) - the evangelist - the one who declares, shares, tell the tale
1. Paul was a herald of the good news (Evangelist).
2. His words to Timothy = "do likewise"
3. The New Testament is clear - we also should "do likewise" (all Christians)
Before we look at Paul's words to Timothy (concerning Evangelism), let's look at evangelism generally:
1) Definition of Evangelism is telling the story - Acts 8:34-35 - Example: Phillip and the Enunuch
ie: bridge illustration, wordless book, Roman road, etc.
2) All Christians are responsible to tell the story. (Great Commission - Matt. 28:18-20)
BUT, 3) There are many ways to tell the story!
LIST - Methods of Personal Evangelism done intentionally
1. Preaching Evangelism
2. Confrontational Evangelism
Example: Billy Graham, D.L. Moody - these two = the most commonly known - most aggressive form of evangelism.
3. Teaching Evangelism - AWANA, Bible Time, Day Camp, etc.
4. Testimonial Evangelism - how you encountered God in a particular setting
5. Ministry Evangelism - helping people in some form with hopeful purpose of sharing the gospel - however, can't JUST do good deeds and helpful things. Must be some form of verbal presentation of the gospel message.
6. Relational Evangelism - building friendships in order to share gospel - 70% say friendship was instrumental in their coming to Christ
7. Family Evangelism - parents leading children to Christ
8. Lifestyle Evangelism -
9. Discipling Evangelism - not only after salvation but many times before
10. Conversational Evangelism
11. Invitational Evangelism - inviting people to something where gospel is going to be presented
12. Tract/Literature Evangelism
13. Child Evangelism - 43% come to Christ before age 13, 56 % before age 18 77 % before age 21. After 21 percentage drops way down.
14. Prayer Evangelism - prayer for person to be saved. However, can't expect salvation without a presentation of the message.
Remember: it's not our job to win people to Christ - that's God's job - Our job is to present the gospel message.
Paul's words to Timothy (concerning Evangelism)
#1. 2 Tim. 1:8 - Don't be ashamed - why the hesitancy?? Maybe because message is offensive? exclusive?? - Jesus is the only way. Simple? (therefore "foolishness") Spiritual opposition?
Whatever the reason - it's there!! 1 Cor. 2:3 - Apostle Paul. But, also - Rom. 1:16 - the means by which people find God.
Note: 2 Tim. 1:6-8
#2. 2 Tim. 2:8-9 - Remember Jesus Christ raised from the dead
1) Resurrection = central to the gospel - can't have gospel message without the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
2) We are not proclaiming a dead Savior, we are proclaiming a Living LORD!! - Rev. 1:17-18
Not serving the memory of a guy, but a risen LORD,
#3. 2 Tim. 4:3-5 - Do the work of an evangelist -
Note: a) it = WORK
b) why Timothy needs to do it = 2 Tim. 4:6-7
Point: each generation is responsible to reach the next generation!!!
Monday, January 16, 2017
Study of 2nd. Timothy - Part 2
Last week - learned that book of 2nd. Timothy =
Pastoral Epistle
Prison Epistle - written from Roman prison during Paul's last imprisonment Personal Epistle - "last words" to someone Paul called "his son in the faith"
Even though these were "last words", contained more instruction than sentiment!! Why?? Because Paul desires Timothy to fulfill his calling (discharge all duties ..) There are at least 50 imperatives - ie: if you want to achieve must do these things.
On one hand, these words written to Timothy - WASM
However, can apply to us - ISM Not everything applies to us, but much does.
Three areas of Instruction:
1) Evangelism (sharing faith)
2) teaching and discipling (passing the faith)
3) personal lifestyle and personal development
/\ if want to be Godly pastor, must be
/ \ Godly parent, and to be a Godly parent must be
/ \ Godly partner, and to be a Godly partner must be
/ \ Godly person - it all begins here.
Last week - some instructions:
1) fan into flame - (keep your faith alive)
2) be strong in grace (strength more than state of being, matter of choice.)
3) endure hardship = suffer well - in a way that honors Christ and benefits others!
4) Continue in what you've learned already - don't drift away.
Additional Instructions in Personal Lifestyle and Development
#1. 2 Tim. 2:15 - Apply yourself to God's Word - understand the whole picture
the word is workman, idea is craftsman - someone who knows inside and out - "a craftsman who has God's approval" - properly handles God's Word.
So --- 1) Know God's Word, and 2) and handle it properly - (example of mishandling : Ezek. 22:30 - taught as reference to Trump foretold in the Bible from the line to "build a wall")
#2. 2 Tim. 2:22 - Flee evil desires
the word in the Greek = strong desire of any kind - dependent on the context
Point = flee any desire that is contrary to God's will for you.
Application is more than youth/sexual - Timothy was about 35 years old at this time.
2 Tim. 2:22 - Additional instructions = flee/pursue = Run from - put off
Run to - put on
any desires that apply to you at your age, at your place in life.
#3. 2 Tim. 3:1-5 - Avoid Godless People OR Choose your companions wisely
Doesn't mean no association. But means friends, traveling companions.
Example: Jesus "ate with sinners", BUT 1) didn't partake of their sins
2) didn't make them daily companions
3) didn't withhold the gospel in their presence, at their party!!
Prov. 13:20 - makes a difference who we hang with.
#4. 2 Tim. 4:3-5 - "in all situations" KJV - "watch thou in all things", NAS - "be sober in all things" (clearheaded) USE YOUR HEAD!! - sober judgment
The problem is not following your heart! The problem is following your heart WHEN IT'S WRONG!!!
2 more from 1st. Timothy:
#5. 1 Tim. 4:12 - Conduct yourself in a manner that wins respect - this is not age/gender specific!!
#6. 2 Tim. 4:7 - TRAIN Yourself to be godly - the Greek word leads to gymnasium, gymnast - exercise, discipline yourself because it all begins at the bottom of the triangle - being a Godly person
Why so much instruction and so little sentiment?
Not because Paul didn't love Timothy, but because (1) he did love him, and (2) wanted to see him PROSPER!!! in the spiritual sense - the sense that mattered!!!
Pastoral Epistle
Prison Epistle - written from Roman prison during Paul's last imprisonment Personal Epistle - "last words" to someone Paul called "his son in the faith"
Even though these were "last words", contained more instruction than sentiment!! Why?? Because Paul desires Timothy to fulfill his calling (discharge all duties ..) There are at least 50 imperatives - ie: if you want to achieve must do these things.
On one hand, these words written to Timothy - WASM
However, can apply to us - ISM Not everything applies to us, but much does.
Three areas of Instruction:
1) Evangelism (sharing faith)
2) teaching and discipling (passing the faith)
3) personal lifestyle and personal development
/\ if want to be Godly pastor, must be
/ \ Godly parent, and to be a Godly parent must be
/ \ Godly partner, and to be a Godly partner must be
/ \ Godly person - it all begins here.
Last week - some instructions:
1) fan into flame - (keep your faith alive)
2) be strong in grace (strength more than state of being, matter of choice.)
3) endure hardship = suffer well - in a way that honors Christ and benefits others!
4) Continue in what you've learned already - don't drift away.
Additional Instructions in Personal Lifestyle and Development
#1. 2 Tim. 2:15 - Apply yourself to God's Word - understand the whole picture
the word is workman, idea is craftsman - someone who knows inside and out - "a craftsman who has God's approval" - properly handles God's Word.
So --- 1) Know God's Word, and 2) and handle it properly - (example of mishandling : Ezek. 22:30 - taught as reference to Trump foretold in the Bible from the line to "build a wall")
#2. 2 Tim. 2:22 - Flee evil desires
the word in the Greek = strong desire of any kind - dependent on the context
Point = flee any desire that is contrary to God's will for you.
Application is more than youth/sexual - Timothy was about 35 years old at this time.
2 Tim. 2:22 - Additional instructions = flee/pursue = Run from - put off
Run to - put on
any desires that apply to you at your age, at your place in life.
#3. 2 Tim. 3:1-5 - Avoid Godless People OR Choose your companions wisely
Doesn't mean no association. But means friends, traveling companions.
Example: Jesus "ate with sinners", BUT 1) didn't partake of their sins
2) didn't make them daily companions
3) didn't withhold the gospel in their presence, at their party!!
Prov. 13:20 - makes a difference who we hang with.
#4. 2 Tim. 4:3-5 - "in all situations" KJV - "watch thou in all things", NAS - "be sober in all things" (clearheaded) USE YOUR HEAD!! - sober judgment
The problem is not following your heart! The problem is following your heart WHEN IT'S WRONG!!!
2 more from 1st. Timothy:
#5. 1 Tim. 4:12 - Conduct yourself in a manner that wins respect - this is not age/gender specific!!
#6. 2 Tim. 4:7 - TRAIN Yourself to be godly - the Greek word leads to gymnasium, gymnast - exercise, discipline yourself because it all begins at the bottom of the triangle - being a Godly person
Why so much instruction and so little sentiment?
Not because Paul didn't love Timothy, but because (1) he did love him, and (2) wanted to see him PROSPER!!! in the spiritual sense - the sense that mattered!!!
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
Bible Study - 2nd. Timothy
Timothy and Titus = (1) pastoral epistles (Timothy @ Ephesus, and Titus @ Crete)
Paul is writing to two young ministers.
2 Tim. = (2) prison epistles (written approximately 66AD) - written from Roman prison
Were possibly Paul's last words!!! therefore, (3) very Personal epistles
All 3 epistles are full of simple, direct charges (instructions)
Example: 1 Tim. 4:7-19 = at least 11
1st & 2nd Timothy combined have minimum of 50.
These = imperatives/commands
BUT, are not 'or else' commands. Rather = 'in order to' commands
As we look, we separate:
the WASM = what was to Tim/for Tim./then
the ISM = what applies to us today
EXAMPLE: 1 Tim. 1:3 - "stay at Ephesus" - this is personal to Timothy
1 Tim. 1:18 - "fight the good fight" - directive for all of us
The Bible Study focus = 2nd. Timothy
Divided into 3 areas:
1) Instruction in Personal lifestyle and development
2) instruction in Evangelism, Sharing the Gospel
3) Instruction in Teaching & Discipleship; passing on the Faith
Lesson in Personal Lifestyle & Development (from 2nd. Timothy)
#1. Fan into flame - 2 Tim. 1:5-6 - example: a hot fire unattended ==> going out. So, 'kindle afresh'.
Question: why not instruction in "how to"?
Answer: Timothy already knew!!! - Bible Study, Prayer, Fellowship with believers
Problem - sometimes is a lack of knowledge. But often = failure to apply the knowledge we already have!!! In which case, don't need more information to 'fan the flames'.
#2. Be strong in grace - 2 Tim. 2:1
Question: Is this "Christianese? Lightly spoken? examples: "bless you", "be well", etc.
NOTE: these = last words!! Are spoken simply because:
A. are important
and B. this strength - choice!! - How strong will you be. You much choose.
#3. Endure hardship - 2 Tim. 2:3
Does not mean go out and seek to suffer.
Means when you suffer, do it well - ie: bear up, bear witness. Examples: martyrs
1 Pet. 2:18-21
Note: 2 Tim. 4:5 again? why? => 2 Tim. 3:10-12 - stand even if at odds with most of the world when stand for Christ.
#4. Continue in what you have learned 2 Tim. 3:13-14
Again: problem sometimes = lack of knowledge
Problem often not continuing in what we've learned!! (haven't made application of what we already know)
Heb. 2:1 - very rarely will a Christian step, walk, or turn away from the faith. Instead, drift, slip, ease away little by little.
Paul goes on to instruct in Evangelism, Ministry, discipleship, etc. BUT NOTE: our ability to minister will not exceed our personal development!!!
Paul is writing to two young ministers.
2 Tim. = (2) prison epistles (written approximately 66AD) - written from Roman prison
Were possibly Paul's last words!!! therefore, (3) very Personal epistles
All 3 epistles are full of simple, direct charges (instructions)
Example: 1 Tim. 4:7-19 = at least 11
1st & 2nd Timothy combined have minimum of 50.
These = imperatives/commands
BUT, are not 'or else' commands. Rather = 'in order to' commands
As we look, we separate:
the WASM = what was to Tim/for Tim./then
the ISM = what applies to us today
EXAMPLE: 1 Tim. 1:3 - "stay at Ephesus" - this is personal to Timothy
1 Tim. 1:18 - "fight the good fight" - directive for all of us
The Bible Study focus = 2nd. Timothy
Divided into 3 areas:
1) Instruction in Personal lifestyle and development
2) instruction in Evangelism, Sharing the Gospel
3) Instruction in Teaching & Discipleship; passing on the Faith
Lesson in Personal Lifestyle & Development (from 2nd. Timothy)
#1. Fan into flame - 2 Tim. 1:5-6 - example: a hot fire unattended ==> going out. So, 'kindle afresh'.
Question: why not instruction in "how to"?
Answer: Timothy already knew!!! - Bible Study, Prayer, Fellowship with believers
Problem - sometimes is a lack of knowledge. But often = failure to apply the knowledge we already have!!! In which case, don't need more information to 'fan the flames'.
#2. Be strong in grace - 2 Tim. 2:1
Question: Is this "Christianese? Lightly spoken? examples: "bless you", "be well", etc.
NOTE: these = last words!! Are spoken simply because:
A. are important
and B. this strength - choice!! - How strong will you be. You much choose.
#3. Endure hardship - 2 Tim. 2:3
Does not mean go out and seek to suffer.
Means when you suffer, do it well - ie: bear up, bear witness. Examples: martyrs
1 Pet. 2:18-21
Note: 2 Tim. 4:5 again? why? => 2 Tim. 3:10-12 - stand even if at odds with most of the world when stand for Christ.
#4. Continue in what you have learned 2 Tim. 3:13-14
Again: problem sometimes = lack of knowledge
Problem often not continuing in what we've learned!! (haven't made application of what we already know)
Heb. 2:1 - very rarely will a Christian step, walk, or turn away from the faith. Instead, drift, slip, ease away little by little.
Paul goes on to instruct in Evangelism, Ministry, discipleship, etc. BUT NOTE: our ability to minister will not exceed our personal development!!!
Sunday, January 1, 2017
Who Needs a Messiah?
Messiah: THE Anointed One who will come and deliver His People - among all other things Messiah expected to do, ultimately - to DELIVER His People
Messiah = prophesied, expected, anticipated - at an all time high at Jesus' time.
Post resurrection message of the Apostles said that: 1) Messiah (Christ) has come and 2) He had delivered His people
BUT - not as expected!!!! Instead of delivering from a temporal, worldly oppressor (Rome), He has delivered from the Ultimate OPPRESSOR, ie: SIN - Matt. 1:21 - (angel to Joseph)
Jesus means - God, the Lord saves.
SIN:
Definition: that which is outside of God's plan, will, design for us.
Note: singular - Sin (state) vs. plural - sins (acts)
Point = all that oppresses man (plagues, burdens, afflicts) finds its ORIGIN in SIN!!
Therefore: to eliminate Sin = eliminate oppression/calamity
(this idea not exclusive to New Testament, Christians. Psm. 130:7-8 - was very well known by old testament Jewish people as well.
Various secular/and even some Christian views:
#1. We don't need saving - "I'm OK, you're OK"
#2. We don't need saving from Sin - need saving from things like global warming, political parties, etc.
#3. We can save our self - example: Evolutionary Ethics postulated back in 19th. century. We will get better and better and that goodness will then be passed on to future generations.
However, ultimately and finally, we can't save ourselves.
#4. Biblical View.......
Questions:
A.) Who needs saving? - on one hand, only the lost'! Luke 19:10 (Matt. 9:12 - Jesus with sinners)
- however, Rom. 3:23 - it's all of us!
B) What do we need saving from? - Matt. 1:21 Christ saves from:
a) Penalty - Rom. 6:23
b) Power - Rom. 7:14, 20, 21, 24
c) Presence?
Note: Past/Present/Future aspects of salvation:
I have been saved - (justification)
I am being saved - (sanctification)
I will be saved - (glorification) - best illustration of this is death.
Additional note: the Jews didn't object to being saved from Sin - BUT their preference = saved from Roman Sin!! - Matt. 1:21 - "their sins" - not other people's, society's, etc.
Point being: my preference = be delivered from the sins of others
My need = be delivered from OWN sins!!!
C) Can we save ourselves? - On one hand, we cannot save ourselves, however can allow ourselves to be saved!!! Acts 2:40 - can cross the bridge
D) Who will He save?
On one hand, 1 John 2:2 However, Matt. 1:21 - "His people" - = all who will come to Him (the ones who have crossed the bridge, will take His name) - Heb. 7:25 Point being: Salvation = His work plus our choice!!
E) What are we saved to? Short answer ... what we were (originally) created for!! Fellowship and relationship with Him.
So...... who needs a Messiah???
ME (personally)
YOU (personally)
US (corporately, mankind)
Acts 4:12
Messiah = prophesied, expected, anticipated - at an all time high at Jesus' time.
Post resurrection message of the Apostles said that: 1) Messiah (Christ) has come and 2) He had delivered His people
BUT - not as expected!!!! Instead of delivering from a temporal, worldly oppressor (Rome), He has delivered from the Ultimate OPPRESSOR, ie: SIN - Matt. 1:21 - (angel to Joseph)
Jesus means - God, the Lord saves.
SIN:
Definition: that which is outside of God's plan, will, design for us.
Note: singular - Sin (state) vs. plural - sins (acts)
Point = all that oppresses man (plagues, burdens, afflicts) finds its ORIGIN in SIN!!
Therefore: to eliminate Sin = eliminate oppression/calamity
(this idea not exclusive to New Testament, Christians. Psm. 130:7-8 - was very well known by old testament Jewish people as well.
Various secular/and even some Christian views:
#1. We don't need saving - "I'm OK, you're OK"
#2. We don't need saving from Sin - need saving from things like global warming, political parties, etc.
#3. We can save our self - example: Evolutionary Ethics postulated back in 19th. century. We will get better and better and that goodness will then be passed on to future generations.
However, ultimately and finally, we can't save ourselves.
#4. Biblical View.......
Questions:
A.) Who needs saving? - on one hand, only the lost'! Luke 19:10 (Matt. 9:12 - Jesus with sinners)
- however, Rom. 3:23 - it's all of us!
B) What do we need saving from? - Matt. 1:21 Christ saves from:
a) Penalty - Rom. 6:23
b) Power - Rom. 7:14, 20, 21, 24
c) Presence?
Note: Past/Present/Future aspects of salvation:
I have been saved - (justification)
I am being saved - (sanctification)
I will be saved - (glorification) - best illustration of this is death.
Additional note: the Jews didn't object to being saved from Sin - BUT their preference = saved from Roman Sin!! - Matt. 1:21 - "their sins" - not other people's, society's, etc.
Point being: my preference = be delivered from the sins of others
My need = be delivered from OWN sins!!!
C) Can we save ourselves? - On one hand, we cannot save ourselves, however can allow ourselves to be saved!!! Acts 2:40 - can cross the bridge
D) Who will He save?
On one hand, 1 John 2:2 However, Matt. 1:21 - "His people" - = all who will come to Him (the ones who have crossed the bridge, will take His name) - Heb. 7:25 Point being: Salvation = His work plus our choice!!
E) What are we saved to? Short answer ... what we were (originally) created for!! Fellowship and relationship with Him.
So...... who needs a Messiah???
ME (personally)
YOU (personally)
US (corporately, mankind)
Acts 4:12
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
