The author of Hebrews concludes this powerful book with a look at how his theology plays out in practice. Love each other, be kind, remember those in prison and those that are tortured for the faith, be a faithful spouse, do not be greedy, pray for those in authority over you, and so not get caught up again in the life of laws.
This ending has more of a Pauline feel than much of the rest of the text. I still wonder if Paul wrote this book as a theological companion to Romans. We will never know for sure - this side of heaven I suppose
The read through Hebrews has been very very important for me in my spiritual life. thanks for joining me and asking questions or sending emails to me about the material we have read together. let me close with the benediction form the text, "Now may the God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, make you complete in everything good so that you may do his will, working among us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen." Hebrews 13:20-21 NRSV.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Hebrews 12
As we begin this twelfth chapter the author "therefores" us back to the "Hall of Faith". A good rule for reading the scriptures is when you come to the word, "therefore" look at what comes before it to find the source of the reasoning behind the next comment. In this case the therefore is the amazing faith witness of the saints that have gone before us. "THEREFORE, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-2 NRSV. The saints that went before us with such powerful witness laid aside all of the weight and sin, so now we also must follow their example and follow Christ!
I see the author of Hebrews calling for us to toughen up and lean into the faith we are called to. After all, we have not yet shed blood for our faith, and the discipline of the Lord is a sign that we are God's children!
I often lose sight of the awesome reverence of our God. Perhaps we have sung "What a Friend we Have in Jesus" and songs like this too often. maybe we have heard to many sermons on grace and unconditional love. We need all of that, but it must be tempered with the holiness and righteousness and power of the living God. I think one of the great gifts of this read through Hebrews for me is a renewed call to spiritual holiness. Thanks for making this journey with me and helping me to be reminded of this higher call!
I see the author of Hebrews calling for us to toughen up and lean into the faith we are called to. After all, we have not yet shed blood for our faith, and the discipline of the Lord is a sign that we are God's children!
I often lose sight of the awesome reverence of our God. Perhaps we have sung "What a Friend we Have in Jesus" and songs like this too often. maybe we have heard to many sermons on grace and unconditional love. We need all of that, but it must be tempered with the holiness and righteousness and power of the living God. I think one of the great gifts of this read through Hebrews for me is a renewed call to spiritual holiness. Thanks for making this journey with me and helping me to be reminded of this higher call!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Hebrews 11
Grab a cup of coffee and a comfortable chair and read and reread Hebrews 11. I think you will find it to be an inspiring, encouraging chapter that deals with our mighty heritage in faith!
What is faith? Glad you asked! "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 NRSV. The important words here for me are assurance and conviction. Faith is not just another word for hope, faith has more substance and expectation to it than mere hope. When we walk in faith, we walk with conviction - convinced that God is with us. When we walk with faith it is with a divine assurance that God is ready willing and able to do all that God has promised!
The "Hall of Faith" section of this chapter is inspiring. Regular people like us are recounted because they walked by faith. From Abel through Abraham, from Joseph through Joshua. All walking in faith.
The news is not always easy and pleasant though. "Women received their dead by resurrection. Others were tortured, refusing to accept release, in order to obtain a better resurrection. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned to death, they were sawn in two, they were killed by the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, persecuted, tormented-- of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. Yet all these, though they were commended for their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better so that they would not, apart from us, be made perfect." Hebrews 11:35-40 NRSV. Powerful testimony to those who went before us. It brings me to tears as i read of their suffering and faithfulness. The sentence, "of whom the world was not worthy." breaks something deep inside of me and I feel something akin to patriotism.
Thanks be to God for all of the saints that have gone before us and set such a good example of faith. Who is in your "Hall of Faith" friend? If they have died, take a moment to give thanks to God for their life touching yours. If they are alive, thank God, and now go thank them!
What is faith? Glad you asked! "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 NRSV. The important words here for me are assurance and conviction. Faith is not just another word for hope, faith has more substance and expectation to it than mere hope. When we walk in faith, we walk with conviction - convinced that God is with us. When we walk with faith it is with a divine assurance that God is ready willing and able to do all that God has promised!
The "Hall of Faith" section of this chapter is inspiring. Regular people like us are recounted because they walked by faith. From Abel through Abraham, from Joseph through Joshua. All walking in faith.
The news is not always easy and pleasant though. "Women received their dead by resurrection. Others were tortured, refusing to accept release, in order to obtain a better resurrection. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned to death, they were sawn in two, they were killed by the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, persecuted, tormented-- of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. Yet all these, though they were commended for their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better so that they would not, apart from us, be made perfect." Hebrews 11:35-40 NRSV. Powerful testimony to those who went before us. It brings me to tears as i read of their suffering and faithfulness. The sentence, "of whom the world was not worthy." breaks something deep inside of me and I feel something akin to patriotism.
Thanks be to God for all of the saints that have gone before us and set such a good example of faith. Who is in your "Hall of Faith" friend? If they have died, take a moment to give thanks to God for their life touching yours. If they are alive, thank God, and now go thank them!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Hebrews 10
Chapter 10 begins a pointed critique of the old covenant and it's inability to remove sin and lead to sanctification. The author does this to show the superiority of the new covenant in Jesus to the old Mosaic Law.
After this discourse on the superiority of the new covenant, the author brings us back again into the Holy of Holies and our invitation to enter deeply into the presence and service of God, "Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is, through his flesh), and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:19-25 NRSV. It is important to my faith that these two things go hand in hand, holiness and good deeds. It is not enough to live a sanctified life that is devoid of service and love for the least the last and the lost. It is not enough to live a life of service while neglecting the personal holiness call of our savior (although even as I type this I know I would rather err on the side of service than private holiness). it can not be either or, but must be both and!
Verse 31 brings us a call with teeth - a threat is probably not too harsh a term to use. "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Hebrews 10:31 NRSV. I understand this and agree with the sentiment and the call to push in deeper to God, but I find the unconditional love of God a more compelling and attractive witness to my need to draw closer to God than the threat of "fearful prospect of judgment, and a fury of fire," Hebrews 10:27 NRSV. I suppose both are necessary to move us as a people. But I do not resonate and move to this angry God talk.
Chapter 10 ends with a perfect setup for chapter 11's stirring "Hall of Faith", Chapter. "But we are not among those who shrink back and so are lost, but among those who have faith and so are saved." Hebrews 10:39 NRSV. I believe a simple reading of chapters 10,11 and 12 would make a wonderful wonderful sermon!
After this discourse on the superiority of the new covenant, the author brings us back again into the Holy of Holies and our invitation to enter deeply into the presence and service of God, "Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is, through his flesh), and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:19-25 NRSV. It is important to my faith that these two things go hand in hand, holiness and good deeds. It is not enough to live a sanctified life that is devoid of service and love for the least the last and the lost. It is not enough to live a life of service while neglecting the personal holiness call of our savior (although even as I type this I know I would rather err on the side of service than private holiness). it can not be either or, but must be both and!
Verse 31 brings us a call with teeth - a threat is probably not too harsh a term to use. "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Hebrews 10:31 NRSV. I understand this and agree with the sentiment and the call to push in deeper to God, but I find the unconditional love of God a more compelling and attractive witness to my need to draw closer to God than the threat of "fearful prospect of judgment, and a fury of fire," Hebrews 10:27 NRSV. I suppose both are necessary to move us as a people. But I do not resonate and move to this angry God talk.
Chapter 10 ends with a perfect setup for chapter 11's stirring "Hall of Faith", Chapter. "But we are not among those who shrink back and so are lost, but among those who have faith and so are saved." Hebrews 10:39 NRSV. I believe a simple reading of chapters 10,11 and 12 would make a wonderful wonderful sermon!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Hebrews 9
This week we will finish our read through the book of Hebrews. I have found this reading of Hebrews to be revolutionary in some significant ways to my spiritual life. I hope you are being blessed by the scriptures as well! This week please read the following chapters; Monday - Hebrews 9, Tuesday - Hebrews 10, Wednesday - Hebrews 11, Thursday - Hebrews 12, and Friday - Hebrews 13.
I have read and reread the descriptions of the early Tabernacle and the Temple and the design and purposes of it. For me, this is shedding new light on the concept of justification and sanctification. In Justification we are saved from our sins and in my opinion invited in to the Holy place of the temple. In Sanctification we are invited to come boldly into the Holy of Holies that has been opened by our High Priest Jesus. In this Holy of Holies I believe our sinful flesh dies and we continue the journey to Holiness.
I know some turn away from the blood atonement, but I find it to be a consistent teaching through the Old Testament and brought to full fruit in our Lord Jesus and his death on the cross and the teachings of the New Testament. Jesus enters the Holy of Holies as our High Priest to sanctify all things with the washing of his blood once and for all.
I have been practicing entering in to the Holy of Holies with Jesus the first thing every morning and every time I feel challenged during the day. I ask Jesus to bring me to the Mercy Seat and put to death all that is not Holy in me and to cleanse me by the washing of his blood. I can feel and watch the difference in my days when I am faithful to this discipline.
Try entering in to this Mercy today as you live and experience your day. Let me know if you see a change or if this seems silly to you. I am anxious to walk closer to Jesus with you.
I have read and reread the descriptions of the early Tabernacle and the Temple and the design and purposes of it. For me, this is shedding new light on the concept of justification and sanctification. In Justification we are saved from our sins and in my opinion invited in to the Holy place of the temple. In Sanctification we are invited to come boldly into the Holy of Holies that has been opened by our High Priest Jesus. In this Holy of Holies I believe our sinful flesh dies and we continue the journey to Holiness.
I know some turn away from the blood atonement, but I find it to be a consistent teaching through the Old Testament and brought to full fruit in our Lord Jesus and his death on the cross and the teachings of the New Testament. Jesus enters the Holy of Holies as our High Priest to sanctify all things with the washing of his blood once and for all.
I have been practicing entering in to the Holy of Holies with Jesus the first thing every morning and every time I feel challenged during the day. I ask Jesus to bring me to the Mercy Seat and put to death all that is not Holy in me and to cleanse me by the washing of his blood. I can feel and watch the difference in my days when I am faithful to this discipline.
Try entering in to this Mercy today as you live and experience your day. Let me know if you see a change or if this seems silly to you. I am anxious to walk closer to Jesus with you.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Hebrews 8
The new High Priest Jesus is discussed further in chapter 8. Jesus comes to usher in a "better covenant" for us.
As I studied the High Priest and the splendor and complexity of their clothing and office I was struck by the exclusive nature of the invitation for that one man to enter into the Holy of Holies on behalf of the nation Israel. I understand from some of the research I did that the bells around the hem of the High Priests Ephod were there to let those outside the curtain hear if the priest was still alive!
Now we have a High Priest that invites us to enter into the Holy of Holies with boldness. This new covenant brings us into God's Holy presence where we can die to our flesh and live to the Spirit.
This new covenant has been promised through the prophets when they said, "This is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall not teach one another or say to each other, 'Know the Lord,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest." Hebrews 8:10-11 NRSV.
I am thankful to live in the age of this new covenant, but I have a feeling we have forfeited the privilege of this intimacy for the religion it came to replace. I am left with a question gnawing away inside of me. What if the Judaisers and those who insisted on rigorous adherence to the law and the gnostic elitists who know the secrets but keep them form the common people won the battle in the early church? Are we living in a shadow of the truth and freedom Christ intended?
As I studied the High Priest and the splendor and complexity of their clothing and office I was struck by the exclusive nature of the invitation for that one man to enter into the Holy of Holies on behalf of the nation Israel. I understand from some of the research I did that the bells around the hem of the High Priests Ephod were there to let those outside the curtain hear if the priest was still alive!
Now we have a High Priest that invites us to enter into the Holy of Holies with boldness. This new covenant brings us into God's Holy presence where we can die to our flesh and live to the Spirit.
This new covenant has been promised through the prophets when they said, "This is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall not teach one another or say to each other, 'Know the Lord,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest." Hebrews 8:10-11 NRSV.
I am thankful to live in the age of this new covenant, but I have a feeling we have forfeited the privilege of this intimacy for the religion it came to replace. I am left with a question gnawing away inside of me. What if the Judaisers and those who insisted on rigorous adherence to the law and the gnostic elitists who know the secrets but keep them form the common people won the battle in the early church? Are we living in a shadow of the truth and freedom Christ intended?
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Hebrews 7
Chapter 7 starts right off where 6 finishes in a discussion of Melchizedeck. Melchizedeck has been a curious fellow for me since I was a teenager. I have come to believe that Melchizedeck was a Theophany or a Christophany - an appearance of God or Christ in another form. We see this when God appears to Moses in the burning bush.
No matter where you come down on this discussion, Melchizedeck is an oddity for us to consider. Jesus is a High Priest in the same line or order as Melcizedeck and serves under no constraints of the Levitical or Aaronic priesthoods.
The author of Hebrews goes to great lengths here to distinguish Jesus and his High Priestly rule from the others while making sure that Jesus is held at all times as superior.
No matter where you come down on this discussion, Melchizedeck is an oddity for us to consider. Jesus is a High Priest in the same line or order as Melcizedeck and serves under no constraints of the Levitical or Aaronic priesthoods.
The author of Hebrews goes to great lengths here to distinguish Jesus and his High Priestly rule from the others while making sure that Jesus is held at all times as superior.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Hebrews 6
When the author begins this portion of the letter by scolding the readers about their dependence on elementary things of the faith, he hits me like I am wearing a bulls eye on my chest. The elementary, foundational things of the faith, "Therefore let us go on toward perfection, leaving behind the basic teaching about Christ, and not laying again the foundation: repentance from dead works and faith toward God, instruction about baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment." Hebrews 6:1-2 NRSV.
If these are the elementary things of the faith, what are the grown up things? What should we be leaning in to if we are maturing in faith?
I think we move deeper into Love. Love of God, love of self and love of neighbor.
How is your Love relationship with God? Not just the intellectual assent that you do love God, but are you anxious to spend time with God, to hear from God? Do you go out of your way to make room for God in all that you are and all that you do?
How is your Love relationship with yourself? How do you care for your self? Are you running on empty and treating your self with disrespect and disdain, or do you appreciate the great gift God has given you in life and talent? I know there is a slippery slope close at hand that we need to avoid, but Jesus seems to assume we will love ourselves when he commands us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.
And how about the neighbor? How are you growing in Love for your neighbor? And who is our neighbor... If the whole worlds people are our neighbors, we are doing a lousy job of loving them -- I am doing a lousy job of loving them.
Today I will listen more closely for an invitation into the deeper life of faith. Lord, don't leave me where you found me. Draw me into your heart of hearts.
If these are the elementary things of the faith, what are the grown up things? What should we be leaning in to if we are maturing in faith?
I think we move deeper into Love. Love of God, love of self and love of neighbor.
How is your Love relationship with God? Not just the intellectual assent that you do love God, but are you anxious to spend time with God, to hear from God? Do you go out of your way to make room for God in all that you are and all that you do?
How is your Love relationship with yourself? How do you care for your self? Are you running on empty and treating your self with disrespect and disdain, or do you appreciate the great gift God has given you in life and talent? I know there is a slippery slope close at hand that we need to avoid, but Jesus seems to assume we will love ourselves when he commands us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.
And how about the neighbor? How are you growing in Love for your neighbor? And who is our neighbor... If the whole worlds people are our neighbors, we are doing a lousy job of loving them -- I am doing a lousy job of loving them.
Today I will listen more closely for an invitation into the deeper life of faith. Lord, don't leave me where you found me. Draw me into your heart of hearts.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Hebrews 5
The material covered in the book of Hebrews is sometimes hard to get a handle on because of our standing as gentiles. Few of us are familiar with Jewish traditions, and fewer still with the traditions and lifestyles of first century Israel.
The writer speaks about the role of High Priest in that culture and their responsibilities. Jesus is our High Priest, and Jesus not only fulfills that role, but he perfects it.
The author refers a few times to Jesus being High Priest in the "Order of Melchizedeck", and never fully explains that Priesthood. Melchizedeck was the high priest that met Abraham in the wilderness as Abraham was returning from conquest. Abraham paid tribute to him with a tithe of the spoils, and Melchizedeck disappears into obscurity. What a curious fellow - no end and no beginning... more on him in chapter 7.
The rebuke that ends chapter 5 is a familiar scripture that I will meditate on today, "About this we have much to say that is hard to explain, since you have become dull in understanding. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic elements of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food; for everyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is unskilled in the word of righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, for those whose faculties have been trained by practice to distinguish good from evil." Hebrews 5:11-14 NRSV. What are the areas where I am still a babe in the faith? Where am I still desiring and needing milk when I should have moved on to solid food? Lord, help me to grow up into Christ who is the head of the church. Thank-you for your patience! Amen.
The writer speaks about the role of High Priest in that culture and their responsibilities. Jesus is our High Priest, and Jesus not only fulfills that role, but he perfects it.
The author refers a few times to Jesus being High Priest in the "Order of Melchizedeck", and never fully explains that Priesthood. Melchizedeck was the high priest that met Abraham in the wilderness as Abraham was returning from conquest. Abraham paid tribute to him with a tithe of the spoils, and Melchizedeck disappears into obscurity. What a curious fellow - no end and no beginning... more on him in chapter 7.
The rebuke that ends chapter 5 is a familiar scripture that I will meditate on today, "About this we have much to say that is hard to explain, since you have become dull in understanding. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic elements of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food; for everyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is unskilled in the word of righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, for those whose faculties have been trained by practice to distinguish good from evil." Hebrews 5:11-14 NRSV. What are the areas where I am still a babe in the faith? Where am I still desiring and needing milk when I should have moved on to solid food? Lord, help me to grow up into Christ who is the head of the church. Thank-you for your patience! Amen.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Hebrews 4
I love the book of Hebrews. In this 4th chapter I find 2 sections that I refer back to on a regular basis.
The first section that I will meditate on today is: "Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Hebrews 4:12 NRSV. I have a very high regard for the Word of God. I struggle with people that treat the Bible as "an interesting book", or "one voice among many". For me, the Word of God IS alive, and the Word is active. I am not here to fix the word, and adapt it to me and my culture, I am trying to allow the God of this Word to fix me.
The second section that I will carry and meditate on today is: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:15&16 NRSV. Isn't it great to know that our savior, our High Priest Jesus is not distant or aloof? It is such a comfort to me to know that Jesus is familiar with the trials I face in my flesh because he was tempted in every way. Further, it is a blessing to know he knows how to overcome sin and temptation. He was tempted in every way just as I am yet he did not sin! That is the kind of coach I need!
Let me encourage you to approach the throne of grace today in boldness. Don't bother trying to fix the Word or make it fit your prejudices, allow it to move even in its sharpness to work within. The plan of God is to move in grace and mercy in our time of need, not to cut us to ribbons. Trust God and the love and grace that is offered here.
The first section that I will meditate on today is: "Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Hebrews 4:12 NRSV. I have a very high regard for the Word of God. I struggle with people that treat the Bible as "an interesting book", or "one voice among many". For me, the Word of God IS alive, and the Word is active. I am not here to fix the word, and adapt it to me and my culture, I am trying to allow the God of this Word to fix me.
The second section that I will carry and meditate on today is: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:15&16 NRSV. Isn't it great to know that our savior, our High Priest Jesus is not distant or aloof? It is such a comfort to me to know that Jesus is familiar with the trials I face in my flesh because he was tempted in every way. Further, it is a blessing to know he knows how to overcome sin and temptation. He was tempted in every way just as I am yet he did not sin! That is the kind of coach I need!
Let me encourage you to approach the throne of grace today in boldness. Don't bother trying to fix the Word or make it fit your prejudices, allow it to move even in its sharpness to work within. The plan of God is to move in grace and mercy in our time of need, not to cut us to ribbons. Trust God and the love and grace that is offered here.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Hebrews 3
As the author continues to make a case for faith in Jesus as Messiah he turns to address Moses and the place of Jesus in relation to Moses' authority. While this seems insignificant to non-Jewish readers it would have been pivotal information and a deciding factor for the Hebrews addressed.
In this presentation Moses is noted and honored as a faithful servant, while contrasted to the sonship of Jesus the Messiah.
The call to the reader of Hebrews is not to harden ones heart against the truth of the gospel as their ancestors had hardened their hearts in the wilderness wanderings with Moses, and so be lost.
I wonder where I have hardened my heart in regards to God's call and authority. Where do you limit God's ability and ownership in your life by setting boundaries? These boundaries may be faith issues, and may show themselves in different ways. A lack of faith may turn us to say that we are unable or unworthy of what God has decided to do in or through us. Hard hearts not only turn away from truth, they turn away from blessing. Are you open today to the Lord doing a new, wonderful thing in your life?
In this presentation Moses is noted and honored as a faithful servant, while contrasted to the sonship of Jesus the Messiah.
The call to the reader of Hebrews is not to harden ones heart against the truth of the gospel as their ancestors had hardened their hearts in the wilderness wanderings with Moses, and so be lost.
I wonder where I have hardened my heart in regards to God's call and authority. Where do you limit God's ability and ownership in your life by setting boundaries? These boundaries may be faith issues, and may show themselves in different ways. A lack of faith may turn us to say that we are unable or unworthy of what God has decided to do in or through us. Hard hearts not only turn away from truth, they turn away from blessing. Are you open today to the Lord doing a new, wonderful thing in your life?
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Hebrews 2
In chapter 2 the author continues the argument for Jesus' superiority to angels. He then proceeds to put forth a position that ties Jesus closely to Abraham and the people of Israel. The author does this to set the premise for the letter, Jesus Christ the High Priest of the nation Israel.
It was important for this epistle to the Hebrews to show Jesus position both as a human and as deity to build the case for the atonement that the author intends to make.
I will meditate today on the final two verses of chapter 2, "Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested." Hebrews 2:17&16 NRSV. It is hard for me to think about Jesus being just like me, and so it is hard for me to think about me being just like Jesus. There is the escape clause my sinful flesh desires. We are called to re-present Jesus here friends. You and I are called to be just like Jesus!
It was important for this epistle to the Hebrews to show Jesus position both as a human and as deity to build the case for the atonement that the author intends to make.
I will meditate today on the final two verses of chapter 2, "Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested." Hebrews 2:17&16 NRSV. It is hard for me to think about Jesus being just like me, and so it is hard for me to think about me being just like Jesus. There is the escape clause my sinful flesh desires. We are called to re-present Jesus here friends. You and I are called to be just like Jesus!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Hebrews 1
The book of Hebrews presents Jesus Christ as the beginning, middle and end of the Jewish Law and Prophets. It's author has been disputed for generations and it is placed in the New Testament after the writings of the Apostle Paul, because until around 1800 it was attributed to Paul. Many have argued for Paul as the author, but the literary style, the lack of the characteristic introduction and epilogue and the actual language or verbiage argue against Paul being the author.
It seems clear that the letter is written to the converted Jews of the first and second century. The goal is to present Jesus and his Deity to a group of people that were being swayed to see Jesus as another in the line of Hebrew prophetic leaders.
Chapter one is spent arguing Jesus' superiority to angels. While angels are powerful and a wonder, Jesus is the "He is the reflection of God's glory and the exact imprint of God's very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs." Hebrews 1:3-4 NRSV.
The case is convincingly argued for Jesus superiority to angels, and as chapter 1 ends angels are portrayed as servants of the faithful, "Are not all angels spirits in the divine service, sent to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?" Hebrews 1:14 NRSV.
For those of you still interested in who did author Hebrews here is a brief piece of research from the web: "If Paul didn't write the letter, who did? The most plausible suggestion is that this was actually a sermon Paul gave and it was transcribed later by Luke, a person who would have had the command of the Greek language which the writer shows. Barnabas is another likely prospect, since he was a Levite and would have been speaking on a subject that he knew much about. Martin Luther suggested Apollos, since he would have had the education the writer of this letter must have had. Priscilla and Clement of Rome have been suggested by other scholars." http://www.gotquestions.org/author-Hebrews.html
It seems clear that the letter is written to the converted Jews of the first and second century. The goal is to present Jesus and his Deity to a group of people that were being swayed to see Jesus as another in the line of Hebrew prophetic leaders.
Chapter one is spent arguing Jesus' superiority to angels. While angels are powerful and a wonder, Jesus is the "He is the reflection of God's glory and the exact imprint of God's very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs." Hebrews 1:3-4 NRSV.
The case is convincingly argued for Jesus superiority to angels, and as chapter 1 ends angels are portrayed as servants of the faithful, "Are not all angels spirits in the divine service, sent to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?" Hebrews 1:14 NRSV.
For those of you still interested in who did author Hebrews here is a brief piece of research from the web: "If Paul didn't write the letter, who did? The most plausible suggestion is that this was actually a sermon Paul gave and it was transcribed later by Luke, a person who would have had the command of the Greek language which the writer shows. Barnabas is another likely prospect, since he was a Levite and would have been speaking on a subject that he knew much about. Martin Luther suggested Apollos, since he would have had the education the writer of this letter must have had. Priscilla and Clement of Rome have been suggested by other scholars." http://www.gotquestions.org/author-Hebrews.html
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Philemon
It is interesting to me that Paul writes that he is a prisoner "of" Jesus Christ and not a prisoner "for" Jesus Christ. Seems like a big difference to me, I wonder if it was intended.
Paul is in fact a prisoner when he pens this letter to his brother in Christ, Philemon. Philemon had found salvation through the ministry of the Apostle Paul, and so Paul writes a very personal letter to him on behalf of a man named Onesimus.
Onesimus probably met Paul in prison. Onesimus was a run away slave, formerly owned by Philemon. Onesimus accepts salvation under Paul's ministry in prison, and now is being taken back to his master - Philemon.
Paul's letter is an impassioned plea for generosity and brotherly love for this new convert. The name, "Onesimus", means useful in Greek. Paul plays on this in verse 11, "Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful both to you and to me." Philemon 11 NRSV.
If you read this letter carefully and perhaps read between the lines, you might see the not so subtle arm twisting the Apostle in chains exerts on behalf of Onesimus. Paul encourages Philemon to place any debt Onesimus may have incurred on Paul's own account. He then subtly reminds Philemon, "I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand: I will repay it. I say nothing about your owing me even your own self." Philemon 19 NRSV.
Paul is sure to remind Philemon that he will be coming soon to visit him in person. Perhaps this shows my humanity and not Paul's, but I read that as a veiled threat if not a strong encouragement to do the right thing.
So how does this all work out? We don't know for sure, but Onsesimus is mentioned later in Colossians 4:9 as, "the faithful and beloved brother who is one of you." I am thankful for a glimpse into the relationships of the early church. They seem a lot more like us than we usually want to think.
Paul is in fact a prisoner when he pens this letter to his brother in Christ, Philemon. Philemon had found salvation through the ministry of the Apostle Paul, and so Paul writes a very personal letter to him on behalf of a man named Onesimus.
Onesimus probably met Paul in prison. Onesimus was a run away slave, formerly owned by Philemon. Onesimus accepts salvation under Paul's ministry in prison, and now is being taken back to his master - Philemon.
Paul's letter is an impassioned plea for generosity and brotherly love for this new convert. The name, "Onesimus", means useful in Greek. Paul plays on this in verse 11, "Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful both to you and to me." Philemon 11 NRSV.
If you read this letter carefully and perhaps read between the lines, you might see the not so subtle arm twisting the Apostle in chains exerts on behalf of Onesimus. Paul encourages Philemon to place any debt Onesimus may have incurred on Paul's own account. He then subtly reminds Philemon, "I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand: I will repay it. I say nothing about your owing me even your own self." Philemon 19 NRSV.
Paul is sure to remind Philemon that he will be coming soon to visit him in person. Perhaps this shows my humanity and not Paul's, but I read that as a veiled threat if not a strong encouragement to do the right thing.
So how does this all work out? We don't know for sure, but Onsesimus is mentioned later in Colossians 4:9 as, "the faithful and beloved brother who is one of you." I am thankful for a glimpse into the relationships of the early church. They seem a lot more like us than we usually want to think.
Monday, August 11, 2008
James 5
This week we will finish James, read an ENTIRE BOOK in one day, and begin our study of Hebrews. Your assignments for the week are: Monday - James 5, Tuesday - Philemon, Wednesday - Hebrews 1, Thursday - Hebrews 2, and Friday - Hebrews 3.
Chapter 5 of James' letter begins with a scathing indictment of the rich. Many of us may read that thinking, "Yeah James! You tell those rich people!" Friends, let me let you in on a little secret. If you are logging on to read these words, there is a better than average chance you are rich in the eyes of the rest of the world. If you have Internet and computer access and leisure time that allows you to sit and read (oh yes, and if you can read!), you are likely in the top 10 or 15% of the wealthiest people in the world. I can hear the whining now, and if you don't want to believe that it's ok with me. But did you know almost 65% of the worlds people are illiterate? 50% are malnourished? 75%+ live in substandard housing? 33% do not have access to safe water?
I am thinking of having all of my shirts silk screened with the words "FREE PRAYER _ JUST ASK". I have found that if I am at all willing I come across people every day that desire prayer! We have great power and authority as James points out, "Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective." James 5:13-16.
We are wealthy and blessed and powerful in the things of God! How will you carry that Good News today?
Chapter 5 of James' letter begins with a scathing indictment of the rich. Many of us may read that thinking, "Yeah James! You tell those rich people!" Friends, let me let you in on a little secret. If you are logging on to read these words, there is a better than average chance you are rich in the eyes of the rest of the world. If you have Internet and computer access and leisure time that allows you to sit and read (oh yes, and if you can read!), you are likely in the top 10 or 15% of the wealthiest people in the world. I can hear the whining now, and if you don't want to believe that it's ok with me. But did you know almost 65% of the worlds people are illiterate? 50% are malnourished? 75%+ live in substandard housing? 33% do not have access to safe water?
I am thinking of having all of my shirts silk screened with the words "FREE PRAYER _ JUST ASK". I have found that if I am at all willing I come across people every day that desire prayer! We have great power and authority as James points out, "Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective." James 5:13-16.
We are wealthy and blessed and powerful in the things of God! How will you carry that Good News today?
Friday, August 8, 2008
James 4
James lets fly with another hard word that hits the bulls eye.
It is not pleasant to think of our behavior as adulterous, but when we look to anything or anyone other than God for our provision in ANY area we are whoring after other gods. James nails us when he writes, "Adulterers! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you suppose that it is for nothing that the scripture says, "God yearns jealously for the spirit that he has made to dwell in us"?" James 4:4&5 NRSV.
I do not like to think of my sin as infidelity to my covenant relationship with God, and yet that is precisely what it is, adultery. I prefer to dress it up and call it something other than sin, and for the most part, church folks will help me and cover for me. I think they may hope I will return the favor when it is their turn.
James sees the solution as simply as he does the problem, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy into dejection. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you." James 4:8-10 NRSV. I must repent and turn back again to God for healing and restoration. Why do I often think God won't mind or notice my infidelity? Would I notice broken marriage vows? Would I excuse the broken covenant and look the other way and pretend all was well? Lord, forgive me and restore me in our covenant.
James 4 ends with a clear definition of sins of Omission. "Anyone, then, who knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, commits sin." James 4:17 NRSV. I heard a young man try to define the difference between sins of CO-mission and O-mission once. He said the sins of CO-mission are the things we have done wrong, and the sins of O-mission are the sins we haven't gotten to yet. Cute, but wrong. When I know to do the right thing and fail to do it, I have sinned. Lord, give me wisdom and courage to stand for you.
It is not pleasant to think of our behavior as adulterous, but when we look to anything or anyone other than God for our provision in ANY area we are whoring after other gods. James nails us when he writes, "Adulterers! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you suppose that it is for nothing that the scripture says, "God yearns jealously for the spirit that he has made to dwell in us"?" James 4:4&5 NRSV.
I do not like to think of my sin as infidelity to my covenant relationship with God, and yet that is precisely what it is, adultery. I prefer to dress it up and call it something other than sin, and for the most part, church folks will help me and cover for me. I think they may hope I will return the favor when it is their turn.
James sees the solution as simply as he does the problem, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy into dejection. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you." James 4:8-10 NRSV. I must repent and turn back again to God for healing and restoration. Why do I often think God won't mind or notice my infidelity? Would I notice broken marriage vows? Would I excuse the broken covenant and look the other way and pretend all was well? Lord, forgive me and restore me in our covenant.
James 4 ends with a clear definition of sins of Omission. "Anyone, then, who knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, commits sin." James 4:17 NRSV. I heard a young man try to define the difference between sins of CO-mission and O-mission once. He said the sins of CO-mission are the things we have done wrong, and the sins of O-mission are the sins we haven't gotten to yet. Cute, but wrong. When I know to do the right thing and fail to do it, I have sinned. Lord, give me wisdom and courage to stand for you.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
James 3
James writes some very insightful and important words here about the tongue. I have struggled my whole life with the burden of having a fast mouth. Often, before I fully considered the impact of my words and all of the ramifications of what i would say I let the words fly. Often, they cause much harm and great time and energy is spent repairing and asking forgiveness. James says of the tongue, "The tongue is placed among our members as a world of iniquity; it stains the whole body, sets on fire the cycle of nature, and is itself set on fire by hell. For every species of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by the human species, but no one can tame the tongue--a restless evil, full of deadly poison." James 3:6b-8 NRSV.
Do you have your tongue under control? James says that such a person is prefect in all they do. Lord, help me to do no harm with my speech. Put a guard over my mouth and let my words be encouraging and a blessing to others.
James encourages us to take a more excellent way, the wisdom form God! "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace." James 3:17&18 NRSV. What is your speech and your life noted for friend? Are you known for mercy and good fruits, for being wise and pure and peaceable, or are you known as a mouth murderer with a cutting biting tongue. Submit your words along with me to the Lord today, let God guide and sweeten our words!
Do you have your tongue under control? James says that such a person is prefect in all they do. Lord, help me to do no harm with my speech. Put a guard over my mouth and let my words be encouraging and a blessing to others.
James encourages us to take a more excellent way, the wisdom form God! "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace." James 3:17&18 NRSV. What is your speech and your life noted for friend? Are you known for mercy and good fruits, for being wise and pure and peaceable, or are you known as a mouth murderer with a cutting biting tongue. Submit your words along with me to the Lord today, let God guide and sweeten our words!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
James 2
James speaks out against showing partiality to the wealthy within the church. The Old Testament is full of admonitions to not only show no partiality to the rich, but also to show no partiality to the poor! Fairness and dealing with people from a point of grace is the hall mark of true Judeo -- Christian culture, at least ideally.
Next, James reminds us that their is no hierarchy in the law, but when we offend any of the laws we offend them all, "For the one who said, "You shall not commit adultery," also said, "You shall not murder." Now if you do not commit adultery but if you murder, you have become a transgressor of the law." James 2:11 NRSV.
The next portion of James is an excellent counter balance to the grace material we have just covered in Paul's writings! Paul has been speaking very convincingly to us for weeks that our salvation is all about grace and not the works of the law. James speaks up today with a counter balance that says, "So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from your works, and I by my works will show you my faith." James 2:17&18 NRSV.
In our journey of faith, faith and works must go hand in glove. It is not an either or situation, but both and! Works in the context of James letter, are the fruit that grows from the seed of grace planted within us! I believe every christian has a spirit given gifting that is useful in ministry. What is yours? Are you using it in ministry for the Kingdom of God? What would the local church look like if EVERY member of the fellowship was involved in some on going ministry?
Next, James reminds us that their is no hierarchy in the law, but when we offend any of the laws we offend them all, "For the one who said, "You shall not commit adultery," also said, "You shall not murder." Now if you do not commit adultery but if you murder, you have become a transgressor of the law." James 2:11 NRSV.
The next portion of James is an excellent counter balance to the grace material we have just covered in Paul's writings! Paul has been speaking very convincingly to us for weeks that our salvation is all about grace and not the works of the law. James speaks up today with a counter balance that says, "So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from your works, and I by my works will show you my faith." James 2:17&18 NRSV.
In our journey of faith, faith and works must go hand in glove. It is not an either or situation, but both and! Works in the context of James letter, are the fruit that grows from the seed of grace planted within us! I believe every christian has a spirit given gifting that is useful in ministry. What is yours? Are you using it in ministry for the Kingdom of God? What would the local church look like if EVERY member of the fellowship was involved in some on going ministry?
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
James 1
The opening verses of James sound a lot like a combination of Romans 5 and other words from Paul. James calls upon the believer to be focused and steadfast in suffering so that we may be found to be mature and complete. It implies that maturity and completeness do not come any other way!
James cautions the double minded that they will be unstable in all their ways and will accomplish nothing! This hits home right now as I have felt conflicted and "double minded" in some areas. I need to focus on Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith and lean only on his Word!
I have heard friends who are veterans of the 12 step programs claim James as their own. They say that his blunt honesty and his call to us to take responsibility for our own decisions would fit right in the best AA meetings of today. When James says, "No one, when tempted, should say, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil and he himself tempts no one. But one is tempted by one's own desire, being lured and enticed by it; then, when that desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and that sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death." James 1:13-15 NRSV, he is giving all of us a dose of tough love!
James turns early to a call to a social gospel - or at least a balanced life that includes social responsibility! Read the following passage again, "But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act--they will be blessed in their doing." James 1:22-25 NRSV. This is good writing probably resulting from good preaching!
This chapter of James closes with a call to bridal the tongue and to care for widows and orphans in their distress. I need help with bridling my tongue, and I rejoice in opportunities to help the need. Lord, help me to grow up!
James cautions the double minded that they will be unstable in all their ways and will accomplish nothing! This hits home right now as I have felt conflicted and "double minded" in some areas. I need to focus on Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith and lean only on his Word!
I have heard friends who are veterans of the 12 step programs claim James as their own. They say that his blunt honesty and his call to us to take responsibility for our own decisions would fit right in the best AA meetings of today. When James says, "No one, when tempted, should say, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil and he himself tempts no one. But one is tempted by one's own desire, being lured and enticed by it; then, when that desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and that sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death." James 1:13-15 NRSV, he is giving all of us a dose of tough love!
James turns early to a call to a social gospel - or at least a balanced life that includes social responsibility! Read the following passage again, "But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act--they will be blessed in their doing." James 1:22-25 NRSV. This is good writing probably resulting from good preaching!
This chapter of James closes with a call to bridal the tongue and to care for widows and orphans in their distress. I need help with bridling my tongue, and I rejoice in opportunities to help the need. Lord, help me to grow up!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Galatians 6
This week we will finish Galatians and turn to the Book of James. This weeks reading assignments are: Monday -- Galatians 6, Tuesday -- James 1, Wednesday -- James 2, Thursday -- James 3, and Friday -- James 4.
Paul closes this contentious letter by encouraging those who have the Spirit to help those who have been detected in a transgression.
One of my favorite verses in Galatians, and most quoted sermon topics follows, "Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit." Galatians 6:7&8 NRSV. I have preached on this concept many times and I remind myself of the impact my decisions have long term often. It frequently keeps me from sin, as I know God is not mocked and I may well reap what I sow. It also reminds me of my dependence on Grace - a common theme I suppose.
I wonder what Paul meant when he said, "From now on, let no one make trouble for me; for I carry the marks of Jesus branded on my body." Galatians 6:17 NRSV. Could it be the frequent beatings and suffering that had taken their toll on him, or was it a "stigmata" - a mysterious unexplainable mark on the body similar to the marks of Chris's crucifixion? Whichever of these is the case, it seems obvious that Paul is tired and warn.
How is your Spirit holding up? As summer streaks by I encourage you to take time to play and enjoy the days we have. May God bless you on the journey my friends!
Paul closes this contentious letter by encouraging those who have the Spirit to help those who have been detected in a transgression.
One of my favorite verses in Galatians, and most quoted sermon topics follows, "Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit." Galatians 6:7&8 NRSV. I have preached on this concept many times and I remind myself of the impact my decisions have long term often. It frequently keeps me from sin, as I know God is not mocked and I may well reap what I sow. It also reminds me of my dependence on Grace - a common theme I suppose.
I wonder what Paul meant when he said, "From now on, let no one make trouble for me; for I carry the marks of Jesus branded on my body." Galatians 6:17 NRSV. Could it be the frequent beatings and suffering that had taken their toll on him, or was it a "stigmata" - a mysterious unexplainable mark on the body similar to the marks of Chris's crucifixion? Whichever of these is the case, it seems obvious that Paul is tired and warn.
How is your Spirit holding up? As summer streaks by I encourage you to take time to play and enjoy the days we have. May God bless you on the journey my friends!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Galatians 5
In chapter 5 we can see Paul's outrage with the Judaisers that are leading the Christians in Galatia astray. He is furious with them and actually wishes them harm in vs. 12!
Paul speaks of the freedom we are called to, and I wonder friends if I have ever been truly free. This may make you nervous, and I apologize in advance for the offense, but have you ever been really free? Paul writes, "For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." If, however, you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another." Galatians 5:13-15 NRSV. So the key here for Paul is freedom guided by Love.
Next Paul describes the lives led by either the flesh or the Spirit. Read them again carefully, which fruit are you surrounded by in your life? "Now the works of the flesh are obvious: fornication, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, anger, quarrels, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these. I am warning you, as I warned you before: those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things." Galatians 5:19-23 NRSV.
Let's decide to live in freedom in the Spirit. What a beautiful life this could be friends. Live free in love.
Paul speaks of the freedom we are called to, and I wonder friends if I have ever been truly free. This may make you nervous, and I apologize in advance for the offense, but have you ever been really free? Paul writes, "For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." If, however, you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another." Galatians 5:13-15 NRSV. So the key here for Paul is freedom guided by Love.
Next Paul describes the lives led by either the flesh or the Spirit. Read them again carefully, which fruit are you surrounded by in your life? "Now the works of the flesh are obvious: fornication, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, anger, quarrels, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these. I am warning you, as I warned you before: those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things." Galatians 5:19-23 NRSV.
Let's decide to live in freedom in the Spirit. What a beautiful life this could be friends. Live free in love.
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