Friday, June 25, 2010
Thought of the Week: Planning for a Better Future
There are two things which are often stated. “Make plans and prepare for a better future.” “The youth are the future of the church.” That being said, if the youth are the future of the church, the goal should be to make the “future” a better one. How is this done? It does not start with having the best preacher in the congregation. It is not having a youth minister to plan out youth activities. Building a solid foundation for the youth begins in the home. “And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
Saturday, June 5, 2010
There is No App For That
We seem to live in what is known as the “i” generation. Not “I” as in life being all about “me” (although, it can be argued that we do). By “i,” we make reference to the Apple Corporation and the multitudes of products which the company provides beginning with i. One can download iTunes and have ready access to a conglomerate of music, movies, books, programs, and a number of other items. One can purchase the iPod, iPad, iMac, iTouch, or iPhone to take this program and others to full potential.
Apple even has a catchy slogan to go with these products. Whatever the need an individual has, “There’s an app for that.” No matter the need a user has there is some application one can purchase to make that need more manageable. If one finds oneself bored, there are a multitude of games to download. If one is a Diabetic, there are programs with diabetic friendly recipes and answers to questions. One can even find a program which will help one split a bill, calculate tips, and so on. These are just some examples of the number of “apps” one can use with these products to make life easier. Truly, when one looks at these apps, it truly seems that there is an “app” to make one’s physical life easier. But are there any apps to make one’s spiritual life simpler?
Is there an app which will be obedient for me? If there is one thing which is taught in the Holy Scripture, it is, that in terms of obedience, man has a personal responsibility. On the Day of Pentecost, the masses cried out to the apostles. They just heard Peter quote Joel concerning salvation, were notified that each was responsible for the death of “Jesus, whom ye have crucified,” and were told that God had made Him, “both Lord and Christ.” (Acts 2:16-36). With this knowledge, these Jews, grief stricken, cried out, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). Considering the statements concerning salvation and sin, these Jews essentially asked, “What must we do to be saved?” There is personal responsibility concerning obedience our obedience to God. Someone could try to make a program but in the end it will not matter. No program will obey the gospel of Christ (Hear God’s Word [Romans 10:17], Believe that Word [Hebrews 11:6], Repent of My Sins [Acts 17:30], Confess Jesus as the Christ {Acts 2:37], and Be Baptized [Mark 16:16]) for me. No program will be faithful until death for me. No matter how technical the line of code, it will not perform the actions God demands of a Christian (Study [2 Timothy 2:15], Benevolence [Galatians 6:10], Defense for the Gospel [1 Peter 3:15], etc.) Man is responsible for all of these things. In the end, there is no app for that.
Is there an app which will judge us in the end? It has been noted that man has a personal responsibility to obey God. What if a man does not obey God? Can he simply download a program to sway judgment in his favor? Not according to God’s Word. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:10). There will come a time when mankind stands before the Christ in judgment and He will lay bare that which is in our hearts. He will be the ultimate judge (John 5:22), not a program. Man will receive the due reward for either his faithfulness to or rebellion against God. If I have done nothing but good (according to what God and NOT the world calls good) I will receive the greatest reward – an eternity in Heaven. If we have done more bad than good (again, in accordance with God’s Word) I will receive the worst reward – eternal hellfire. As Christ will be the judge, there is no app for that.
Apple even has a catchy slogan to go with these products. Whatever the need an individual has, “There’s an app for that.” No matter the need a user has there is some application one can purchase to make that need more manageable. If one finds oneself bored, there are a multitude of games to download. If one is a Diabetic, there are programs with diabetic friendly recipes and answers to questions. One can even find a program which will help one split a bill, calculate tips, and so on. These are just some examples of the number of “apps” one can use with these products to make life easier. Truly, when one looks at these apps, it truly seems that there is an “app” to make one’s physical life easier. But are there any apps to make one’s spiritual life simpler?
Is there an app which will be obedient for me? If there is one thing which is taught in the Holy Scripture, it is, that in terms of obedience, man has a personal responsibility. On the Day of Pentecost, the masses cried out to the apostles. They just heard Peter quote Joel concerning salvation, were notified that each was responsible for the death of “Jesus, whom ye have crucified,” and were told that God had made Him, “both Lord and Christ.” (Acts 2:16-36). With this knowledge, these Jews, grief stricken, cried out, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). Considering the statements concerning salvation and sin, these Jews essentially asked, “What must we do to be saved?” There is personal responsibility concerning obedience our obedience to God. Someone could try to make a program but in the end it will not matter. No program will obey the gospel of Christ (Hear God’s Word [Romans 10:17], Believe that Word [Hebrews 11:6], Repent of My Sins [Acts 17:30], Confess Jesus as the Christ {Acts 2:37], and Be Baptized [Mark 16:16]) for me. No program will be faithful until death for me. No matter how technical the line of code, it will not perform the actions God demands of a Christian (Study [2 Timothy 2:15], Benevolence [Galatians 6:10], Defense for the Gospel [1 Peter 3:15], etc.) Man is responsible for all of these things. In the end, there is no app for that.
Is there an app which will judge us in the end? It has been noted that man has a personal responsibility to obey God. What if a man does not obey God? Can he simply download a program to sway judgment in his favor? Not according to God’s Word. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:10). There will come a time when mankind stands before the Christ in judgment and He will lay bare that which is in our hearts. He will be the ultimate judge (John 5:22), not a program. Man will receive the due reward for either his faithfulness to or rebellion against God. If I have done nothing but good (according to what God and NOT the world calls good) I will receive the greatest reward – an eternity in Heaven. If we have done more bad than good (again, in accordance with God’s Word) I will receive the worst reward – eternal hellfire. As Christ will be the judge, there is no app for that.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Is One Sin Greater Than Another?
Some weeks ago a brother in Christ and I were discussing a question posed to him from John 19:11. The question was, “Is one sin greater than another?” One could take that from the verse. “Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin” (John 19:11). Is that truly the case? We need to understand the context of the verse. Pilate, being a Roman, was ignorant to the one true God in Heaven and had little to no understanding of His power. Pilate had no knowledge of the Christ which was to come. You could say that while he still sinned, it was an ignorant sin. It was the Jews (here the Sanhedrim and to a lesser extent Judas) who had the Old Testament scrolls, knew the prophecy of the Christ, but still put Him on the cross. They were without excuse (Romans 2:1) and committed the greater sin. Still that begs the question, “Is One Sin Greater Than Another?” The answer may be a bit surprising to the reader. No…and yes. How is that possible? Continue reading to find out.
No.
When one looks at the idea of sin from a spiritual sense, one sin is not greater than another. Please take the following verses into consideration. While dictating his letter to the Romans to Tertius, Paul said that the “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Wages is the payment due. There is no indication of a type of sin but sin in general. The payment due for sin is death. This, when tied together with Revelation 21:8, should dispel any belief that there are “big sins” and “little sins.” “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death” (Revelation 21:8). When one looks at the list of those who will spend an eternity in Hell you have a laundry list of evil-doers. Notice, the sin of lying is listed with that of sexual, murder, and idolatry. How often is the statement, “It’s just a little white lie,” made? Even what we call “little white lies” are enough to send one to Hell. On the other side of the spectrum, there is no sin God is not willing to forgive. If we are obedient to Him, we can have our sins washed away (Acts 2:38, 16:22). Even after baptism, if we sin, God will forgive us if we repent and ask forgiveness (Acts 8 [Simon the Sorcerer]; 1 John 1:9). No, there are no greater sins from a spiritual standpoint but the physical is a different story.
Yes.
If one looks at sin from the side of the physical, there are often greater ramifications for some sins than others. For instance, if an employee were to lie about stealing a fellow employee’s cookie from the cookie jar and is caught. That person would probably get scolded by his co-worker or boss. That same employee goes to the bar, gets drunk, and decides that “he’s good to drive” as the excuse goes, wraps his vehicle around a tree, and is paralyzed from the waist down. More than likely, he will be forced to live in that physical condition for the rest of his life. An addict of any kind will be forced to live with the consequences of that addiction, whatever it may be. While that man can still be forgiven of such actions, he is forced to “bear the burden” that goes with them (Galatians 6:5).
Is one sin greater than another? Yes and no. Every sin is worthy of eternal punishment. Every sin can be forgiven if a man will obey God’s Will. Every sin carries out a different physical punishment. Brethren, let us think before we act. You never know what weight your actions may carry.
No.
When one looks at the idea of sin from a spiritual sense, one sin is not greater than another. Please take the following verses into consideration. While dictating his letter to the Romans to Tertius, Paul said that the “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Wages is the payment due. There is no indication of a type of sin but sin in general. The payment due for sin is death. This, when tied together with Revelation 21:8, should dispel any belief that there are “big sins” and “little sins.” “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death” (Revelation 21:8). When one looks at the list of those who will spend an eternity in Hell you have a laundry list of evil-doers. Notice, the sin of lying is listed with that of sexual, murder, and idolatry. How often is the statement, “It’s just a little white lie,” made? Even what we call “little white lies” are enough to send one to Hell. On the other side of the spectrum, there is no sin God is not willing to forgive. If we are obedient to Him, we can have our sins washed away (Acts 2:38, 16:22). Even after baptism, if we sin, God will forgive us if we repent and ask forgiveness (Acts 8 [Simon the Sorcerer]; 1 John 1:9). No, there are no greater sins from a spiritual standpoint but the physical is a different story.
Yes.
If one looks at sin from the side of the physical, there are often greater ramifications for some sins than others. For instance, if an employee were to lie about stealing a fellow employee’s cookie from the cookie jar and is caught. That person would probably get scolded by his co-worker or boss. That same employee goes to the bar, gets drunk, and decides that “he’s good to drive” as the excuse goes, wraps his vehicle around a tree, and is paralyzed from the waist down. More than likely, he will be forced to live in that physical condition for the rest of his life. An addict of any kind will be forced to live with the consequences of that addiction, whatever it may be. While that man can still be forgiven of such actions, he is forced to “bear the burden” that goes with them (Galatians 6:5).
Is one sin greater than another? Yes and no. Every sin is worthy of eternal punishment. Every sin can be forgiven if a man will obey God’s Will. Every sin carries out a different physical punishment. Brethren, let us think before we act. You never know what weight your actions may carry.
What Are You Singing?
When I was in high school, my favorite class was Sociology. The class gave me an opportunity to take the things in which I had interest and use them in the assignments given. One such assignment gave me the opportunity to discuss my greatest interest (at the time) which was music. We were allowed a report on any subject we chose. I chose to do my article on the topic of “Music’s Effect on Individuals.” The report covered issues such as: Columbine, the effects of music on a person, and if the two were directly responsible. Recently, a brother in Christ quoted James 5:13 which put a remembrance of the report in my mind.
“Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms” (James 5:13). The point he was bringing to the group was, “Do you take the time to sing praise to God daily, not just in worship?” It was an interesting statement because we do have a command to sing before God during services. These are set forth in the scripture but do we take time to sing praises to our God outside of services?
It is proven that every genre of music will have an effect on the human body. One study proved that Heavy Metal will increase the heart rate, speed of breath, and make one more aggressive. It will also plant angry emotions in an otherwise normal person. Before anyone jumps on the “Heavy Metal is from Satan” bandwagon, it has also been proven that Rap creates stronger emotions of anger than Metal. Those who listen to country are more likely to commit suicide than those who do not. Classical music relaxes one’s mind and puts it more in the mood for study. It has also been proven that those who listen to Slow Jazz experience less post surgery pain. These are just a few facts about the effects of music on the human body.
That being said, this is type of music which we listen to throughout the week. We generally sing “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” two days out of the week. We may sing two to three songs on Wednesday night and twelve or so songs over the course of a Sunday. Compare that to how often we listen to other type of music. Am I saying that these other forms of music are inherently sinful? No. While we should listen to music which is without foul language or that which does not contain harmful messages, it is not wrong to listen to these genres. The point that I am trying to make is this: If music affects the body in different ways and this is what we bombard ourselves with on a weekly basis, what type of mind do we have in worship? Will someone who listens to metal or rap have an angry mind? Will someone who listens to country be at services with a saddened personality? What if we gave time to sing to our God throughout the week? These songs are intended to draw our minds into the mindset of proper worship. If we took the time to sing praises to our God throughout the week, would that not affect my attitude during worship? Would that not help me with my worship toward God?
We learn the words to numerous secular songs which we can perform by heart. Why not learn songs of praise and draw ourselves closer to God.
What are you singing throughout the week? Why not add a few songs of praise to the playlist?
“Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms” (James 5:13). The point he was bringing to the group was, “Do you take the time to sing praise to God daily, not just in worship?” It was an interesting statement because we do have a command to sing before God during services. These are set forth in the scripture but do we take time to sing praises to our God outside of services?
It is proven that every genre of music will have an effect on the human body. One study proved that Heavy Metal will increase the heart rate, speed of breath, and make one more aggressive. It will also plant angry emotions in an otherwise normal person. Before anyone jumps on the “Heavy Metal is from Satan” bandwagon, it has also been proven that Rap creates stronger emotions of anger than Metal. Those who listen to country are more likely to commit suicide than those who do not. Classical music relaxes one’s mind and puts it more in the mood for study. It has also been proven that those who listen to Slow Jazz experience less post surgery pain. These are just a few facts about the effects of music on the human body.
That being said, this is type of music which we listen to throughout the week. We generally sing “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” two days out of the week. We may sing two to three songs on Wednesday night and twelve or so songs over the course of a Sunday. Compare that to how often we listen to other type of music. Am I saying that these other forms of music are inherently sinful? No. While we should listen to music which is without foul language or that which does not contain harmful messages, it is not wrong to listen to these genres. The point that I am trying to make is this: If music affects the body in different ways and this is what we bombard ourselves with on a weekly basis, what type of mind do we have in worship? Will someone who listens to metal or rap have an angry mind? Will someone who listens to country be at services with a saddened personality? What if we gave time to sing to our God throughout the week? These songs are intended to draw our minds into the mindset of proper worship. If we took the time to sing praises to our God throughout the week, would that not affect my attitude during worship? Would that not help me with my worship toward God?
We learn the words to numerous secular songs which we can perform by heart. Why not learn songs of praise and draw ourselves closer to God.
What are you singing throughout the week? Why not add a few songs of praise to the playlist?
Full Service or Self Service Christianity?
As a child I was first introduced to a concept which soon disappeared. My father and I were at the old Shell Station when I noticed that gas stations had two sections labeled “Full Service” and “Self Service.” My father pulled up to the “Self Service” section and began pumping gas. This was the first time I had noticed the signs and as inquisitive minds are apt, I intended to get to the bottom of things. My father returned to the brown Chevy Custom, handed me my usual Chocolate Soldier, and I asked him the difference between “Full” and “Self” service. “Self Service” involved an individual pumping his own gas. At the cost of a few extra pennies, you could choose “Full Service.” An individual would come to your vehicle and pump gas for you. He would also check the air in your tires, oil in your vehicle, and other fluids. This method began to disappear over time and as I grew older I forgot until I was getting gas this past Christmas. I saw a “Full Service” sign at a gas station which had been scratched out. What happened to “Full Service” stations? They still exist in New Jersey and Oregon, which require all gas stations to be “Full Service” but are largely non-existent elsewhere.
In many aspects of life, “Full Service” seems to be slipping away. There seems to be more focus on “What can be done for me?” instead of “What can I do for others?” Christians must remember that the Master never intended we live a life of “Self Service.” This was the truth He spoke when washing the feet of His disciples (John 13). He was willing to wash the feet of His disciples, thereby being a servant to them should not His people also be willing to serve those who are in need? “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.” (John 13:14). After all, we are not better than our Master (John 13:16) and should follow the example of servitude, which He gave to us. “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you” (John 13:15).
If one were to examine the lives and writings of many of the early New Testament Christians, each lived a life of servitude. The early church gave when others were in need (Acts 2:45). This was something different at the time as the Jews were not known for giving “as every man had need.” The early church was well known for its benevolence towards others. Even if one looks at one of the three pictures of the judgment, it is easy to see the eternal need of being a “Full Service Christian” (Matthew 25:31-46). How many will be cast into “everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels” because “ye visited me not”?
“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10).
In many aspects of life, “Full Service” seems to be slipping away. There seems to be more focus on “What can be done for me?” instead of “What can I do for others?” Christians must remember that the Master never intended we live a life of “Self Service.” This was the truth He spoke when washing the feet of His disciples (John 13). He was willing to wash the feet of His disciples, thereby being a servant to them should not His people also be willing to serve those who are in need? “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.” (John 13:14). After all, we are not better than our Master (John 13:16) and should follow the example of servitude, which He gave to us. “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you” (John 13:15).
If one were to examine the lives and writings of many of the early New Testament Christians, each lived a life of servitude. The early church gave when others were in need (Acts 2:45). This was something different at the time as the Jews were not known for giving “as every man had need.” The early church was well known for its benevolence towards others. Even if one looks at one of the three pictures of the judgment, it is easy to see the eternal need of being a “Full Service Christian” (Matthew 25:31-46). How many will be cast into “everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels” because “ye visited me not”?
“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10).
The Disney End vs Reality
Recently, the Walt Disney Corporation released an adaptation of the Brothers Grimm story, “The Frog Prince” in theaters. In this and other adaptation of the story, the frog prince is released from a curse which was placed upon him after being kissed by the princess. This is the common ending of the story but not how the original authors ended it. In the original ending, the prince is released from his curse only after the princess throws him against a wall of her bedroom in disgust. This isn’t the only story which was changed to fit the common “Disney Ending.” Hans Christian Anderson’s “Little Mermaid” actually ends with a suicide. The Greek myth of Hercules ends with an accidental murder. Cinderella is just as morbid as the two aforementioned stories. More often than not, these stories did not end with the “Happily Ever After” which we love to imagine. Granted, Disney changed these stories to give an upbeat ending which people prefer. Anderson and the Brothers Grimm were not known for “feel good stories” but everyone loves a happy ending even at the cost of the truth.
Sadly, many preachers have adopted the Disney attitude to many sermons and articles which are written. No longer is the message about what God would have men to know but what will make a man “feel good” when it is all said and done, even if his spiritual condition would keep him from living “Happily Forever After” this life is over. The truth of the matter is that while some would have man believe one thing, God’s Word speaks the reality of each subject.
God’s Word is that which is to be preached. Paul told Timothy to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” (2 Timothy 4:2). Timothy was to preach God’s Message regardless of whether or not others wanted to hear it. God told Ezekiel to give the children of Israel His message telling Ezekiel, “They will NOT listen but TELL THEM anyway” (Ezekiel 3). Yet, the backlash from those who refuse to listen has caused too many today to preach “the Disney Gospel.” Everyone is going to get the “Happy Ending” they’ve always wanted. Sadly, the reality is different.
This refusal to preach God’s Word has caused too many areas of doctrine to be twisted to that which man would have others know. Marriage/Divorce/Remarriage is pretty much ignored, although Christ was very clear on the subject (Matthew 19:9). Salvation has been dumbed down to saying ten words and a prayer that never once appears in the Bible. James was very plain when he said, “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:24). When Paul told the jailor to “believe,” we are never told that he believed until AFTER he heard God’s Word, washed the stripes of Paul and Silas (a sign of repentance), and was baptized. After these things were done, he believed (Acts 16:34). Man teaches one thing but the reality is different.
Some would argue that the change in preaching came from a change in man. “No one wants to hear it anymore.” Remember, God told Ezekiel that his people would not listen. He also told Ezekiel to tell them regardless. After exhorting Timothy to preach God’s Word, he told the young preacher that many would refuse to listen to the truth (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Never once did Paul tell Timothy to change the message. A change of the heart of man is no reason for a change of message. A change in message only leads to one thing. Complete destruction for the one who teaches and the one who follows. The “commandments of men” (Matthew 15:9) can be taught and feel good messages spread abroad. The reality is far different.
Sadly, many preachers have adopted the Disney attitude to many sermons and articles which are written. No longer is the message about what God would have men to know but what will make a man “feel good” when it is all said and done, even if his spiritual condition would keep him from living “Happily Forever After” this life is over. The truth of the matter is that while some would have man believe one thing, God’s Word speaks the reality of each subject.
God’s Word is that which is to be preached. Paul told Timothy to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” (2 Timothy 4:2). Timothy was to preach God’s Message regardless of whether or not others wanted to hear it. God told Ezekiel to give the children of Israel His message telling Ezekiel, “They will NOT listen but TELL THEM anyway” (Ezekiel 3). Yet, the backlash from those who refuse to listen has caused too many today to preach “the Disney Gospel.” Everyone is going to get the “Happy Ending” they’ve always wanted. Sadly, the reality is different.
This refusal to preach God’s Word has caused too many areas of doctrine to be twisted to that which man would have others know. Marriage/Divorce/Remarriage is pretty much ignored, although Christ was very clear on the subject (Matthew 19:9). Salvation has been dumbed down to saying ten words and a prayer that never once appears in the Bible. James was very plain when he said, “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:24). When Paul told the jailor to “believe,” we are never told that he believed until AFTER he heard God’s Word, washed the stripes of Paul and Silas (a sign of repentance), and was baptized. After these things were done, he believed (Acts 16:34). Man teaches one thing but the reality is different.
Some would argue that the change in preaching came from a change in man. “No one wants to hear it anymore.” Remember, God told Ezekiel that his people would not listen. He also told Ezekiel to tell them regardless. After exhorting Timothy to preach God’s Word, he told the young preacher that many would refuse to listen to the truth (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Never once did Paul tell Timothy to change the message. A change of the heart of man is no reason for a change of message. A change in message only leads to one thing. Complete destruction for the one who teaches and the one who follows. The “commandments of men” (Matthew 15:9) can be taught and feel good messages spread abroad. The reality is far different.
Finally, Brethren, Pray for Us (Originally written November 17, 2009)
Currently, we are all sitting at the airport in Memphis awaiting our flight. Unlike this country, men do not have the freedom to preach the Gospel in all areas overseas (although, it can be argued that this freedom is disappearing in America as we speak). India is one such country without that freedom. To my understanding, it is illegal to preach the gospel in India. God’s law superseding the laws of man, we will preach regardless (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 4:19). For those reading this, I have one request. It is the same request Paul made to those in his final letter to those in Thessalonica.
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul ends this second letter with a request for prayer concerning a number of things.
PRAY FOR US
“Us” would consist of Paul, Silas, and Timothy. At this time, these three preachers were in Corinth laboring for the Lord. It is not a selfish thing to ask for prayer, especially when the work of the Lord is involved. In fact, it is always encouraging to know that there are those who are praying for you in trying times.
PRAY FOR THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST
They were requested to pray that the gospel is able to be spread where he travels without restraint. The idea is that the gospel might be able to “run” freely across the world with no opposition. Paul had endured many hardships in his lifetime while spreading the gospel (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). He was well aware of the trials and tribulations which could occur. There are many men who will do their best to hinder the work of sound, faithful gospel preachers. Paul requested his brethren pray that these hindrances be removed so the gospel could be heard. God is the only one who can remove these obstructions. Prayer was needed that this would occur. This “running” of the Gospel would result in the glorification of God’s Word. This glorying of the Gospel would come from the obedience of men and women - those who were willing to obey God’s Will and become His children. This was evident in the fact that many in Thessalonica had glorified the Word by this very action.
PRAY FOR DELIVERANCE
Paul asked his brethren to pray for deliverance from wicked men. During the time of this writing he was experiencing troubling times (Acts 18). In fact, it seems that physical danger may have seemed so close that God told Paul that he would be safe (Acts 18:10). There are those who would stir up the masses and/or government in the hopes of stopping the gospel because they have no use for it. Paul had to contend with Judaizers and Gnostics. He requested that his brethren pray for deliverance from these who had no use for the faith.
As Paul asked the Thessalonian church for prayers, I ask for the same. “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2). Thank you, and may God bless you.
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul ends this second letter with a request for prayer concerning a number of things.
PRAY FOR US
“Us” would consist of Paul, Silas, and Timothy. At this time, these three preachers were in Corinth laboring for the Lord. It is not a selfish thing to ask for prayer, especially when the work of the Lord is involved. In fact, it is always encouraging to know that there are those who are praying for you in trying times.
PRAY FOR THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST
They were requested to pray that the gospel is able to be spread where he travels without restraint. The idea is that the gospel might be able to “run” freely across the world with no opposition. Paul had endured many hardships in his lifetime while spreading the gospel (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). He was well aware of the trials and tribulations which could occur. There are many men who will do their best to hinder the work of sound, faithful gospel preachers. Paul requested his brethren pray that these hindrances be removed so the gospel could be heard. God is the only one who can remove these obstructions. Prayer was needed that this would occur. This “running” of the Gospel would result in the glorification of God’s Word. This glorying of the Gospel would come from the obedience of men and women - those who were willing to obey God’s Will and become His children. This was evident in the fact that many in Thessalonica had glorified the Word by this very action.
PRAY FOR DELIVERANCE
Paul asked his brethren to pray for deliverance from wicked men. During the time of this writing he was experiencing troubling times (Acts 18). In fact, it seems that physical danger may have seemed so close that God told Paul that he would be safe (Acts 18:10). There are those who would stir up the masses and/or government in the hopes of stopping the gospel because they have no use for it. Paul had to contend with Judaizers and Gnostics. He requested that his brethren pray for deliverance from these who had no use for the faith.
As Paul asked the Thessalonian church for prayers, I ask for the same. “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2). Thank you, and may God bless you.
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