Christian Meditation- Philippians 4:8
INTRODUCTION
1. Our text for this lesson enjoins upon Christians that they engage in a form of “meditation”:
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever
things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy -- meditate on these things.” (Ph 4:8)
2. The practice of “meditation” by Christians is not something you might hear frequently discussed...
a. It may be that some Christians are simply not aware that they are commanded to “meditate”
b. It may be that some believe meditation belongs solely to the Eastern religions like Hinduism or Buddhism
3. Yet Paul clearly teaches us to “meditate on these things”, and “meditation” is certainly a Biblical subject...
a. Isaac meditated in the field at eventide - Gen 24:63
b. Joshua was charged by God to mediate “day and night” - Josh 1:8
c. The “blessed man” in Psalms 1 is one who meditates - Psa 1:1-2
d. David became wiser than his teachers through meditation - Psa 119:99
e. Paul commanded Timothy to “meditate on these things” - 1 Ti 4:15
4. But some questions may come to mind...
a. What does meditation mean for the Christian?
b. Why should we be concerned about making time to meditate?
c. How should we meditate?
[This lesson will attempt to provide answers to these questions...]
I. WHAT MEDITATION IS IN THE BIBLE
A. WHAT MEDITATION IN THE BIBLE IS NOT...
1. The kind practiced by many Eastern religions
a. Like Hinduism, Buddhism, or Transcendental Meditation
b. Where the object is to experience truth, peace, or being, that is “inexpressible”
2. The kind practiced by “Christian mystics”
a. Such as Quakers, and others often found among Catholics and Protestants
b. These meditate in order to “experience” God, or to receive some revelation from God
3. Both Eastern and “Christian mystical” meditation usually attempts to empty the mind so as to find or receive truth within (i.e., a “subjective” form of meditation)
B. WHAT MEDITATION IN THE BIBLE IS...
1. To dwell or contemplate on some truth or reality already revealed (i.e., an “objective” form of meditation)
2. Specifically, the man “after God’s own heart” is one who meditates on such things as:
a. The Lord Himself - Psa 63:6
b. His wonderful Works - Psa 77:12
c. His revealed Word - Psa 119:15,23,48,97-99,148
3. To put it in the words of the apostle Paul, we are to meditate on “things”...
a. Things that are “true, noble, just pure, lovely, of good report”
b. Things that are of any “virtue”, and are “praiseworthy”
4. The purpose of such meditation is...
a. To nourish man with his understanding of God and His Revealed Will (not to seek for some previously unrevealed truth)
b. To give man spiritual joy and strength through such nourishment - cf. Ps 1:1-3; Isa 40: 28-31
[So there is a very real difference between “Biblical meditation” and that commonly practiced by many religions!
* Christian meditation dwells on that already revealed in creation or inspired revelation
*Whereas other forms of meditation are seeking some new truth to be revealed
Understanding the difference,
why is Biblical meditation so important?
II. WHY WE SHOULD MEDITATE
A. IT IS A SOURCE OF JOY AND STRENGTH...
1. This we have already seen from such passages like Psa 1:1-2; Isa 40:28-31
2. This alone should motivate us to meditate more often
B. IT IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF OUR “TRANSFORMATION”...
1. The goal of the Christian is to become more like Christ - cf. Ro 8:29
2. This requires a “transformation” - Ro 12:1-2
3. But notice that this is possible only by “renewing the mind” - Ro 12:2
4. This “renewing” is possible only when we “set our minds” on proper things
a. On things above
b. Not on things on the earth - Co 3:1-2
5. Only then, when our minds are “set on things above”, will we be successful in completing the “transformation” which includes “putting off the old man” and “putting on the new man” - cf. Co 3:1-2 with Co 3:5-14
C. MANY FALL BECAUSE THEY MEDITATE ON THE WRONG THINGS...!
1. They “mind the things of the flesh”, which leads to “death” and “enmity with God”
- cf. Ro 8:5-8
2. Yet even those in the world understand that you cannot be a spiritual person if you “dwell” on carnal things
a. “Recent studies conducted by a Stanford University research team have revealed that ‘what we watch’ does have an effect on our imaginations, our learning patterns, and our behaviors. First we are exposed to new behaviors and characters. Next, we learn or acquire these new behaviors. The last and most crucial step is that we adopt these behaviors as our own. One of the most critical aspects of human development that we need to understand is the influence of ‘repeated viewing’ and ‘repeated verbalizing’ in shaping our future. The information goes in, ‘harmlessly, almost unnoticed,’ on a daily basis, but we don’t react to it until later, when we aren’t able to realize the basis for our reactions. In other words, our value system is being formed without any conscious awareness on our part of what is happening!” - Denis Waitley, Seeds Of Greatness, p. 47-48)
b. “You are what you watch and think.” (ibid., p. 45)
c. “If a sixty second commercial, by repeated viewing, can sell us a product, then isn’t it possible for a sixty minute soap opera or ‘smut-com’, by repeated viewing, to sell us a lifestyle?” (ibid., p. 47)
[If Christians are going to succeed, they must set their minds (or meditate) on “the things of the Spirit”, or on “things above, where Christ is”! Only then can they with God’s help “put off the old man” and “put on the new man”. Finally, a few thoughts on...]
III. HOW TO MEDITATE
A. REMEMBER, YOUR MIND IS AFFECTED BY EVEN CASUAL CONTEMPLATION...!
1. Cf. the Stanford studies
2. The first step to proper meditation is to be selective in what you watch and read
3. Fill your mind with positive and spiritual thoughts if you really want to:
a. “renew the mind”
b. “be transformed”
4. It doesn’t have to be restricted to the Bible, as Paul said: “Whatever things...”
a. There are novels, movies, television shows, etc., that fall into the category of possessing “virtue” and being “praiseworthy”
b. Seek the advice and counsel of other Christians as to what is “of good report”
5. So first let your “casual” contemplation be discriminatory!
B. TO REACH THE HEIGHTS OF SPIRITUAL MEDITATION, HEED THE
COUNSEL OF THE PSALMS...
1. Make the Bible your primary focus for meditation - Psa 1:2
2. Read it contemplatively every day - Psa 1:2; 119:15
3. Read it with a prayer in your heart - cf. Psa 119:18
4. As you read, occasionally read it aloud to yourself
a. The Hebrew word in Psa 1:2 means “to mutter”
b. Reading slowly and audibly helps to focus one’s mind on the words
5. As you read, you might ask yourself the following questions:
a. Is there some truth I should know from this verse?
b. How does this passage affect a previously held conviction?
c. Is there something I should stop doing in light of this verse?
d. Is there a practice I should change?
e. Is there a habit I ought to begin?
6. To put it another way: “Hold the Word of God in your heart until it has affected
every phase of your life...this is meditation.”
CONCLUSION
1. In Psa 19:14, we find David praying:
“Let the words of mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
“O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”
2. What Paul commands us to do in our text (“meditate on these things”) is the means by which we can assure that our meditations will be acceptable in the sight of our Lord!
3. If you are not a Christian, or an erring one, then there are some things in particular upon which you ought to meditate:
a. What is your standing in God’s sight?
b. What would happen if you were to die today?
c. What do you need to do to be found in the grace of God?
d. Why delay any longer?
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
How To Be Free From Anxiety- Philippians 4:6-7
How To Be Free From Anxiety- Philippians 4:6-7
INTRODUCTION
1. If anyone had good reason to be anxious, it could have been the apostle Paul...
a. His beloved friends at Philippi were disagreeing with one another - Ph 4:1-3
b. There were preachers in Rome who were filled with envy and strife, and out to “get” Paul - Ph 1:15
c. To top it off, Paul himself was under house arrest, awaiting trial and his possible execution!
-- Yet we have seen that throughout this epistle the keynote repeated again and again is “rejoice!”
2. Evidently Paul had found the secret of overcoming anxiety, and fortunately for us, he shares that secret in Ph 4:6-7
[We shall examine what that secret is, but first, let’s take a closer look at “anxiety” itself...]
I. UNDERSTANDING THE NATURE OF ANXIETY
A. DEFINING THE WORD...
1. The word “anxious” (careful, KJV) is from “merimnao” {mer-im-nah’-o}
2. As defined by Thayer...
a. It means “to be pulled in different directions”
b. For example, our hopes pull us in one direction; our fears pull us in the opposite
direction
c. Thus, to be anxious is to be “pulled apart”!
3. The word “worry” (a synonym for anxiety) in its English origins presents a different, yet enlightening picture
a. It comes from a word meaning “to strangle”
b. If you have ever really worried, you know how it does indeed strangle a person!
1) In fact, worry (or anxiety) has definite physical side effects: headaches, neck pains, ulcers, even back pains
2) Worry affects our thinking, our digestion, and even our coordination
B. ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS ON ANXIETY...
1. From a spiritual perspective, anxiety is:
a. Wrong thinking and wrong feeling about circumstances, people and things
b. The greatest thief of joy
2. It is not enough for us to tell ourselves, “Quit being anxious”, in an effort to stop the thief from stealing our joy
a. Anxiety is “an inside job”
b. It takes more than good intentions to get the victory over anxiety
[The antidote to anxiety is revealed by Paul in our text, which we will now look at closely...]
II. WINNING THE VICTORY OVER ANXIETY
A. THE “ANTIDOTE” IS THE RIGHT KIND OF “PRAYING”...!
1. In which we pray about “everything”!
a. Like the hymn, Paul counsels us to “take everything to God in prayer”
b. To put it another way, “Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything!” is
Paul’s admonition
c. We are prone to pray about the “big things”, and forget to pray about the “little things”
1) But “little things” left unattended grow up to become “big things”
2) Therefore, God would have us talk to Him about “everything”
2. In which we pray by “prayer and supplication”
a. “Prayer” is the general word for making requests known to God
1) It carries the idea of adoration, devotion, and worship
2) Whenever we find ourselves filled with anxiety, our first action ought be to spend
time alone with God in prayerful adoration and worship
3) Adoration for God helps us to remember the greatness and majesty of God
a) We must remember that He is big enough to solve problems we cannot
b) Too often, we rush into His presence and hastily tell Him our needs
c) But freedom from anxiety comes when we spend more time on Who He is,
rather than on what our problems are!
4) Having spent time in prayerful adoration, we are now ready to move on...
b. “Supplication” is where we begin making our requests known to God
1) It involves an earnest sharing of our problems and needs
2) Freedom from anxiety does not come from halfhearted, insincere praying!
a) While we know that we are not heard for our “much speaking” - Mt 6:7-8
b) Still we should realize that our Father wants us to be earnest and persistent in
our asking - Mt 7:7-11
3) An example of this sort of praying is found in He 5:7
a) Jesus offered up “prayers and supplications”
b) He did so, “with vehement cries and tears”, suggesting true earnestness in
making His requests
3. In which we pray “with thanksgiving”
a. This implies appreciation on our part
1) Certainly the Father delights in hearing His children say “Thank you!”
2) Yet so many people are like the nine lepers healed by Jesus - cf. Lk 17:11-19
3) Are we eager to ask, but slow to appreciate?
b. Note that this thanksgiving is to be offered at the same time we make our requests!
1) Doing this serves to remind us of other things God has done and is doing for us
2) Which in turn helps to keep our problems in perspective
B. SUCH “PRAYING” WILL RESULT IN A FORTRESS GUARDING OUR MINDS
AND HEARTS...
1. God may not always remove the problems that were the initial cause of our anxiety, but He promises a “peace which surpasses all understanding”!
2. It is a peace that the world cannot provide, but He can! - cf. Jn 14:27; 16:33
3. It is a peace that “guards” (to guard, garrison like a fortress) our “hearts” and “minds”
a) Guarding the heart (which is susceptible to wrong feeling)
b) Guarding the mind (which is susceptible to wrong thinking)
4. This does not mean the absence of trials on the outside, but it does mean...
a) A quiet confidence within
b) Regardless of circumstances, people, or things that would otherwise steal our joy!
CONCLUSION
1. This wonderful peace, this freedom from anxiety, is the result of letting our requests be known to God through the right kind of praying...
a. Praying about everything
b. Praying with prayer and supplication
c. Praying with thanksgiving
2. But note well, all this is possible through Christ Jesus...! - Ph 4:7
a. He is the source of every spiritual blessing from God, including the peace that surpasses understanding - cf. Ep 1:3
b. And we must be in Christ if we desire this peace of which Paul writes in our text
3. Do you desire the “peace of God”?
a. Then you must be in Christ (to see how one gets into Christ, consider Ga 3:26-27)
b. And then you must commune with God frequently in the kind of praying taught by Paul
Are you in Christ? Do you commune with God as you should? If we can assist you in either way...
INTRODUCTION
1. If anyone had good reason to be anxious, it could have been the apostle Paul...
a. His beloved friends at Philippi were disagreeing with one another - Ph 4:1-3
b. There were preachers in Rome who were filled with envy and strife, and out to “get” Paul - Ph 1:15
c. To top it off, Paul himself was under house arrest, awaiting trial and his possible execution!
-- Yet we have seen that throughout this epistle the keynote repeated again and again is “rejoice!”
2. Evidently Paul had found the secret of overcoming anxiety, and fortunately for us, he shares that secret in Ph 4:6-7
[We shall examine what that secret is, but first, let’s take a closer look at “anxiety” itself...]
I. UNDERSTANDING THE NATURE OF ANXIETY
A. DEFINING THE WORD...
1. The word “anxious” (careful, KJV) is from “merimnao” {mer-im-nah’-o}
2. As defined by Thayer...
a. It means “to be pulled in different directions”
b. For example, our hopes pull us in one direction; our fears pull us in the opposite
direction
c. Thus, to be anxious is to be “pulled apart”!
3. The word “worry” (a synonym for anxiety) in its English origins presents a different, yet enlightening picture
a. It comes from a word meaning “to strangle”
b. If you have ever really worried, you know how it does indeed strangle a person!
1) In fact, worry (or anxiety) has definite physical side effects: headaches, neck pains, ulcers, even back pains
2) Worry affects our thinking, our digestion, and even our coordination
B. ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS ON ANXIETY...
1. From a spiritual perspective, anxiety is:
a. Wrong thinking and wrong feeling about circumstances, people and things
b. The greatest thief of joy
2. It is not enough for us to tell ourselves, “Quit being anxious”, in an effort to stop the thief from stealing our joy
a. Anxiety is “an inside job”
b. It takes more than good intentions to get the victory over anxiety
[The antidote to anxiety is revealed by Paul in our text, which we will now look at closely...]
II. WINNING THE VICTORY OVER ANXIETY
A. THE “ANTIDOTE” IS THE RIGHT KIND OF “PRAYING”...!
1. In which we pray about “everything”!
a. Like the hymn, Paul counsels us to “take everything to God in prayer”
b. To put it another way, “Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything!” is
Paul’s admonition
c. We are prone to pray about the “big things”, and forget to pray about the “little things”
1) But “little things” left unattended grow up to become “big things”
2) Therefore, God would have us talk to Him about “everything”
2. In which we pray by “prayer and supplication”
a. “Prayer” is the general word for making requests known to God
1) It carries the idea of adoration, devotion, and worship
2) Whenever we find ourselves filled with anxiety, our first action ought be to spend
time alone with God in prayerful adoration and worship
3) Adoration for God helps us to remember the greatness and majesty of God
a) We must remember that He is big enough to solve problems we cannot
b) Too often, we rush into His presence and hastily tell Him our needs
c) But freedom from anxiety comes when we spend more time on Who He is,
rather than on what our problems are!
4) Having spent time in prayerful adoration, we are now ready to move on...
b. “Supplication” is where we begin making our requests known to God
1) It involves an earnest sharing of our problems and needs
2) Freedom from anxiety does not come from halfhearted, insincere praying!
a) While we know that we are not heard for our “much speaking” - Mt 6:7-8
b) Still we should realize that our Father wants us to be earnest and persistent in
our asking - Mt 7:7-11
3) An example of this sort of praying is found in He 5:7
a) Jesus offered up “prayers and supplications”
b) He did so, “with vehement cries and tears”, suggesting true earnestness in
making His requests
3. In which we pray “with thanksgiving”
a. This implies appreciation on our part
1) Certainly the Father delights in hearing His children say “Thank you!”
2) Yet so many people are like the nine lepers healed by Jesus - cf. Lk 17:11-19
3) Are we eager to ask, but slow to appreciate?
b. Note that this thanksgiving is to be offered at the same time we make our requests!
1) Doing this serves to remind us of other things God has done and is doing for us
2) Which in turn helps to keep our problems in perspective
B. SUCH “PRAYING” WILL RESULT IN A FORTRESS GUARDING OUR MINDS
AND HEARTS...
1. God may not always remove the problems that were the initial cause of our anxiety, but He promises a “peace which surpasses all understanding”!
2. It is a peace that the world cannot provide, but He can! - cf. Jn 14:27; 16:33
3. It is a peace that “guards” (to guard, garrison like a fortress) our “hearts” and “minds”
a) Guarding the heart (which is susceptible to wrong feeling)
b) Guarding the mind (which is susceptible to wrong thinking)
4. This does not mean the absence of trials on the outside, but it does mean...
a) A quiet confidence within
b) Regardless of circumstances, people, or things that would otherwise steal our joy!
CONCLUSION
1. This wonderful peace, this freedom from anxiety, is the result of letting our requests be known to God through the right kind of praying...
a. Praying about everything
b. Praying with prayer and supplication
c. Praying with thanksgiving
2. But note well, all this is possible through Christ Jesus...! - Ph 4:7
a. He is the source of every spiritual blessing from God, including the peace that surpasses understanding - cf. Ep 1:3
b. And we must be in Christ if we desire this peace of which Paul writes in our text
3. Do you desire the “peace of God”?
a. Then you must be in Christ (to see how one gets into Christ, consider Ga 3:26-27)
b. And then you must commune with God frequently in the kind of praying taught by Paul
Are you in Christ? Do you commune with God as you should? If we can assist you in either way...
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Virtue Of Gentleness- Philippians 4:5
The Virtue Of Gentleness- Philippians 4:5
INTRODUCTION
1. Among several general exhortations which Paul includes in this last chapter of his epistle to the Philippians, we find the following admonition:
“Let your gentleness (moderation, KJV) be known be known to all men. The Lord is at
hand.” - Ph 4:5
2. The virtue referred to in this verse is a very important one, and well worth the time in this lesson taking a closer look at it.
[We begin by noticing...]
I. THE NATURE OF THIS VIRTUE
A. DEFINITION OF “GENTLENESS” (from Barclay)...
1. The word epi-ei-kei-a is one of the most untranslatable words in Greek
2. The difficulty can be seen by the various translations given it:
a. Patience (Wycliffe)
b. Softness (Tyndale, Cranmer)
c. The patient mind (Geneva Bible)
d. Modesty (Rheims Bible)
e. Forbearance (Revised Version)
f. Moderation (King James Version)
g. Sweet Reasonableness (Matthew Arnold)
B. DESCRIPTION OF “GENTLENESS” (from Erdmans)...
1. It describes that courtesy and graciousness which should characterize a Christian gentleman
2. The term indicates something of “the power of yielding”
a. The ability to give way to the wishes of others
b. The poise of soul which enables one to sacrifice his own rights, not by necessity, but out of generosity and sympathy
3. It is the opposite of stubbornness and thoughtlessness
4. It was embodied in the man Jesus Christ - cf. 2 Co 10:1
C. “GENTLENESS”, THEN... (as defined by Pulpit Commentary)
1. It is the opposite of contention, rigor and severity
2. It is the spirit that enables a man to bear injuries with patience, and not demand all that is rightly his due, for the sake of peace
3. A good example of where this virtue is to applied is seen in 1 Co 6:1-7 (note the willingness to be defrauded enjoined by the apostle Paul)
[Perhaps with a better grasp of the nature of this virtue, let’s now examine...]
II. THE DISPLAY OF THIS VIRTUE
A. IT IS TO BE A PERSONAL QUALITY OF ALL CHRISTIANS...
1. Notice that Paul says “Let your gentleness...”
2. Elders especially must display this virtue - 1 Ti 3:3
3. So also should teachers - 2 Ti 2:24-26 (not the same word used here, but the same idea)
4. Indeed, all Christians are to display this virtue - Ti 3:1-2
5. For good reason, for it is a part of that “heavenly wisdom” which comes from above - Ja 3:17
B. IT IS TO BE KNOWN TO ALL MEN...
1. This is the difficult part of the exhortation
a. It is easier to be considerate, kind, and gentle toward some persons
b. There are others, however, toward whom it is difficult to show a spirit of gentleness
2. The hard task, and the real test, is to display this “gentleness” or “sweet
reasonableness” toward...
a. The unkind
b. The thankless
c. The perverse
[But as we continue on with our text, there is good reason to do so...]
III. THE REASON AND MOTIVE FOR DISPLAYING THIS VIRTUE
A. “THE LORD IS AT HAND”...
1. This may possibly mean “the Lord is nearby”
2. Or it could refer to either meeting the Lord at death or at His final coming, both events are always imminent!
3. He who is our Judge is ever watchful, ever aware of our conduct and treatment of others
4. One day we will have to answer to this Judge!
B. THE DANGER OF NOT DISPLAYING “GENTLENESS”...
1. If we are not gentle in our treatment of others, do we expect Him to be gentle in His treatment of us?
2. Remember the “Parable Of The Unforgiving Servant”? - Mt 18:21-35
3. Also, James warning in Ja 2:13
CONCLUSION
1. The display of this virtue has great advantages...
a. It can contribute much to the comfort of life and the peace of society, by reducing friction between people - e.g., Pro 15:1
b. It can contribute to the usefulness of Christians in promoting the gospel of Christ (we demonstrate the “gentleness” found throughout the gospel message)
2. Are we a “gentle people”? May we ever be, for “the Lord is at hand!”
Speaking of the Lord being at hand, are you living a life pleasing to Him...?
INTRODUCTION
1. Among several general exhortations which Paul includes in this last chapter of his epistle to the Philippians, we find the following admonition:
“Let your gentleness (moderation, KJV) be known be known to all men. The Lord is at
hand.” - Ph 4:5
2. The virtue referred to in this verse is a very important one, and well worth the time in this lesson taking a closer look at it.
[We begin by noticing...]
I. THE NATURE OF THIS VIRTUE
A. DEFINITION OF “GENTLENESS” (from Barclay)...
1. The word epi-ei-kei-a is one of the most untranslatable words in Greek
2. The difficulty can be seen by the various translations given it:
a. Patience (Wycliffe)
b. Softness (Tyndale, Cranmer)
c. The patient mind (Geneva Bible)
d. Modesty (Rheims Bible)
e. Forbearance (Revised Version)
f. Moderation (King James Version)
g. Sweet Reasonableness (Matthew Arnold)
B. DESCRIPTION OF “GENTLENESS” (from Erdmans)...
1. It describes that courtesy and graciousness which should characterize a Christian gentleman
2. The term indicates something of “the power of yielding”
a. The ability to give way to the wishes of others
b. The poise of soul which enables one to sacrifice his own rights, not by necessity, but out of generosity and sympathy
3. It is the opposite of stubbornness and thoughtlessness
4. It was embodied in the man Jesus Christ - cf. 2 Co 10:1
C. “GENTLENESS”, THEN... (as defined by Pulpit Commentary)
1. It is the opposite of contention, rigor and severity
2. It is the spirit that enables a man to bear injuries with patience, and not demand all that is rightly his due, for the sake of peace
3. A good example of where this virtue is to applied is seen in 1 Co 6:1-7 (note the willingness to be defrauded enjoined by the apostle Paul)
[Perhaps with a better grasp of the nature of this virtue, let’s now examine...]
II. THE DISPLAY OF THIS VIRTUE
A. IT IS TO BE A PERSONAL QUALITY OF ALL CHRISTIANS...
1. Notice that Paul says “Let your gentleness...”
2. Elders especially must display this virtue - 1 Ti 3:3
3. So also should teachers - 2 Ti 2:24-26 (not the same word used here, but the same idea)
4. Indeed, all Christians are to display this virtue - Ti 3:1-2
5. For good reason, for it is a part of that “heavenly wisdom” which comes from above - Ja 3:17
B. IT IS TO BE KNOWN TO ALL MEN...
1. This is the difficult part of the exhortation
a. It is easier to be considerate, kind, and gentle toward some persons
b. There are others, however, toward whom it is difficult to show a spirit of gentleness
2. The hard task, and the real test, is to display this “gentleness” or “sweet
reasonableness” toward...
a. The unkind
b. The thankless
c. The perverse
[But as we continue on with our text, there is good reason to do so...]
III. THE REASON AND MOTIVE FOR DISPLAYING THIS VIRTUE
A. “THE LORD IS AT HAND”...
1. This may possibly mean “the Lord is nearby”
2. Or it could refer to either meeting the Lord at death or at His final coming, both events are always imminent!
3. He who is our Judge is ever watchful, ever aware of our conduct and treatment of others
4. One day we will have to answer to this Judge!
B. THE DANGER OF NOT DISPLAYING “GENTLENESS”...
1. If we are not gentle in our treatment of others, do we expect Him to be gentle in His treatment of us?
2. Remember the “Parable Of The Unforgiving Servant”? - Mt 18:21-35
3. Also, James warning in Ja 2:13
CONCLUSION
1. The display of this virtue has great advantages...
a. It can contribute much to the comfort of life and the peace of society, by reducing friction between people - e.g., Pro 15:1
b. It can contribute to the usefulness of Christians in promoting the gospel of Christ (we demonstrate the “gentleness” found throughout the gospel message)
2. Are we a “gentle people”? May we ever be, for “the Lord is at hand!”
Speaking of the Lord being at hand, are you living a life pleasing to Him...?
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
4.8. Fear and Worry
4.8. Fear and Worry
• Fear invades and underlies the whole of life's activities such as: fear of
failure, of change, of success, of rejection, of being abandoned, of
loneliness, of the future, of the unknown and the endless list of phobias.
( Gen. 3:9-10 ; 1 John 4:18 ) Fear is the first emotion expressed by man, and the first emotion dealt with by the Cross of Christ. Fear is replaced by love, faith works by love, love action destroys the feelings of fear.
( Heb. 3:12-13 ) Main causes of fear are self-concerns, self-interest and self-protection. Fear is really unbelief that Christ is not living within you.
• Fear, worry, anxiety along with anger, bitterness, resentment, guilt, envy,
and other sins are just feelings. It is faith acting on God's word by one's
will, an act of love, that supersedes feelings.
( Gen. 4:7 ; Gen. 15:1 ) When God commands us to "Fear Not!", He is addressing our
will and our mind, not our emotions. You work through fear by an act of your will because God is with you, willing you to love. Love casts out all fear ( 1 John 4:18).
( Gen. 1:26-28 ) God commands us to replenish and to subdue. Fear is a necessary part
of our design. Fear tells me something or someone who appears bigger than I am is
approaching and affecting my mind and my emotions. Fear is a red light that tells us
danger is about - to signal us to call upon God and in Him to face the fear - swallow it up and go on to the next thing. We are to replace the fear with a deliberate trust and rest in God who lives in us, drawing upon Him for wisdom, strength and ability. Thus, fear triggers one more way in which God is manifested and revealed in our behavior.
( Rom. 12:1-2 ) Most of us have a belief bank full of junk. We are to renew the mind,
get the junk out, and replace it with thoughts of God's Presence. He is my Light, my
Salvation, whom shall I fear: for He will give me all I need as I seek His righteousness.
( Ps. 42:1-11 ) Talk to self, tell self who God is, rehearse this reality and fear will properly disappear. For God can now be revealed in the situation.
( Ps. 23 ; Ps. 24 ; Ps. 27 ; Ps. 91 ; Deut. 28 ) Feelings only obey what I think. If
despair, then despair comes, if fearful then more of the same, etc. Truth in God must be learned, that I know within that He is my strength, my adequacy, my wisdom, that His angels are all about me! We control fear by believing the truth in God.
( Heb. 13:20-21 ) God is with me at all times, He will never leave or forsake me. God
loves me, accepts me and approves of me regardless of what others say or think.
( Matt. 5:43-44 ; 1 John 2:9-10 ) Regardless of what others do or not do, be always in a state of forgiving offenses, develop a permanent state of reconciliation. Choose to love, develop this disposition to love. It takes time for this idea to grow and develop into the image of Christ because it is what Jesus did. Our blueprint states that we were made to love, otherwise life does not work.
( 1 John 3:17 ) Love is an action, activated by compassion. We don't have to pray about it, just do it! Don't have to ask for God's help, Holy Spirit is already in us, and it is our choice to respond God's way allowing His love to be manifested.
( Phil. 4:13 ; 2 Cor. 12:7-9 ) Fear is part of living. We will always fear changes, new situations, and a sense of inadequacy will surround all situations. All this does is reveal the creatureness of my being and to remind me that I can't handle anything in my own strength and wisdom. Rejoice that you can't handle it because in each and every circumstance that you call upon the Lord Who is your strength, the more and more you grow into Him.
( 1 Cor. 1:30 ) By faith and not by feelings, call upon the Lord and ask Him that His
thoughts become your thoughts, His strengths your strengths, His adequacy your
adequacy. This is what is called a normal Christian life.
( Prov. 24:10 ; Prov. 21:22 ) With diligence and perseverance you can be victorious in all new situations and changes that life offers. The enemy will challenge your growth. Use the barriers he sets up as opportunities to strengthen your faith until you become perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
( John 14:21 ; John 16:33 ) He will guide us into the unknown, new territories, new
ideas, new situations, and new revelations. Look forward to great opportunities to reveal your potential in Christ. Areas that frighten, God has already given it to us in Christ. As with Moses with just a staff in hand, go with whatever you have in hand, and see miracles.
( 1 John 1:9 ; 1 Cor. 13:4-8a ; Col. 3:12-14 ; 2 Cor. 5:14-15 ; Phil. 4:6-9 ; 1 John
4:18 ) In order to deal biblically with fear, you must confess your self-centered fear to God and fulfill your responsibilities in Christlike love regardless of your feelings.
( Matt. 6:33 ; Matt. 25:26 ; Prov. 16:9 ; Eph. 5:15-17 ; Col. 3:23-24 ) Worry is
wickedness and laziness, reveals a lack of trust in God. To overcome worry, make a plan to accomplish today's task and do each task heartily as unto the Lord.
• Fear invades and underlies the whole of life's activities such as: fear of
failure, of change, of success, of rejection, of being abandoned, of
loneliness, of the future, of the unknown and the endless list of phobias.
( Gen. 3:9-10 ; 1 John 4:18 ) Fear is the first emotion expressed by man, and the first emotion dealt with by the Cross of Christ. Fear is replaced by love, faith works by love, love action destroys the feelings of fear.
( Heb. 3:12-13 ) Main causes of fear are self-concerns, self-interest and self-protection. Fear is really unbelief that Christ is not living within you.
• Fear, worry, anxiety along with anger, bitterness, resentment, guilt, envy,
and other sins are just feelings. It is faith acting on God's word by one's
will, an act of love, that supersedes feelings.
( Gen. 4:7 ; Gen. 15:1 ) When God commands us to "Fear Not!", He is addressing our
will and our mind, not our emotions. You work through fear by an act of your will because God is with you, willing you to love. Love casts out all fear ( 1 John 4:18).
( Gen. 1:26-28 ) God commands us to replenish and to subdue. Fear is a necessary part
of our design. Fear tells me something or someone who appears bigger than I am is
approaching and affecting my mind and my emotions. Fear is a red light that tells us
danger is about - to signal us to call upon God and in Him to face the fear - swallow it up and go on to the next thing. We are to replace the fear with a deliberate trust and rest in God who lives in us, drawing upon Him for wisdom, strength and ability. Thus, fear triggers one more way in which God is manifested and revealed in our behavior.
( Rom. 12:1-2 ) Most of us have a belief bank full of junk. We are to renew the mind,
get the junk out, and replace it with thoughts of God's Presence. He is my Light, my
Salvation, whom shall I fear: for He will give me all I need as I seek His righteousness.
( Ps. 42:1-11 ) Talk to self, tell self who God is, rehearse this reality and fear will properly disappear. For God can now be revealed in the situation.
( Ps. 23 ; Ps. 24 ; Ps. 27 ; Ps. 91 ; Deut. 28 ) Feelings only obey what I think. If
despair, then despair comes, if fearful then more of the same, etc. Truth in God must be learned, that I know within that He is my strength, my adequacy, my wisdom, that His angels are all about me! We control fear by believing the truth in God.
( Heb. 13:20-21 ) God is with me at all times, He will never leave or forsake me. God
loves me, accepts me and approves of me regardless of what others say or think.
( Matt. 5:43-44 ; 1 John 2:9-10 ) Regardless of what others do or not do, be always in a state of forgiving offenses, develop a permanent state of reconciliation. Choose to love, develop this disposition to love. It takes time for this idea to grow and develop into the image of Christ because it is what Jesus did. Our blueprint states that we were made to love, otherwise life does not work.
( 1 John 3:17 ) Love is an action, activated by compassion. We don't have to pray about it, just do it! Don't have to ask for God's help, Holy Spirit is already in us, and it is our choice to respond God's way allowing His love to be manifested.
( Phil. 4:13 ; 2 Cor. 12:7-9 ) Fear is part of living. We will always fear changes, new situations, and a sense of inadequacy will surround all situations. All this does is reveal the creatureness of my being and to remind me that I can't handle anything in my own strength and wisdom. Rejoice that you can't handle it because in each and every circumstance that you call upon the Lord Who is your strength, the more and more you grow into Him.
( 1 Cor. 1:30 ) By faith and not by feelings, call upon the Lord and ask Him that His
thoughts become your thoughts, His strengths your strengths, His adequacy your
adequacy. This is what is called a normal Christian life.
( Prov. 24:10 ; Prov. 21:22 ) With diligence and perseverance you can be victorious in all new situations and changes that life offers. The enemy will challenge your growth. Use the barriers he sets up as opportunities to strengthen your faith until you become perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
( John 14:21 ; John 16:33 ) He will guide us into the unknown, new territories, new
ideas, new situations, and new revelations. Look forward to great opportunities to reveal your potential in Christ. Areas that frighten, God has already given it to us in Christ. As with Moses with just a staff in hand, go with whatever you have in hand, and see miracles.
( 1 John 1:9 ; 1 Cor. 13:4-8a ; Col. 3:12-14 ; 2 Cor. 5:14-15 ; Phil. 4:6-9 ; 1 John
4:18 ) In order to deal biblically with fear, you must confess your self-centered fear to God and fulfill your responsibilities in Christlike love regardless of your feelings.
( Matt. 6:33 ; Matt. 25:26 ; Prov. 16:9 ; Eph. 5:15-17 ; Col. 3:23-24 ) Worry is
wickedness and laziness, reveals a lack of trust in God. To overcome worry, make a plan to accomplish today's task and do each task heartily as unto the Lord.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
4.7. Depression
4.7. Depression
Perspective
• Depression is essentially irresponsibility. There are some organic
malfunctions that may trigger feelings of depression. Most symptoms and
maladies defined as depression are the consequences of unbiblical habits
and/or sinful reactions to circumstances and other people. Depression
may be experienced by anyone and must be dealt with from God's
perspective and not from your own perspective or any other person's
philosophy.
( Gen. 4:3-7 ) God commands us by His word not to live by our feelings, but to decide
by my will to respond in a manner which is pleasing in His sight. To react to please self is to be mastered by the reactions which is sin.
( John 15:8-12 ; James 1:22-25 ) Depression is not to be used as an excuse for you to
live in an unbiblical manner. Even if you feel depressed, you are still to live biblically. Your thoughts, words, and actions are always to edify others and bring glory to God instead of just obeying God's word when you "feel like it".
( Ps. 32:3-5 ; Ps. 38:1-10 ; Col. 3:25 ) Symptoms defined as 'depression' are
sometimes precipitated by sin which means you are living to please yourself instead of living to please the Lord. If you do not repent, confess your self-centeredness and return to living in a biblical manner, you will experience even further difficulties.
( 1 Pet. 3:10-12 ; Rom. 8:11-14 ; Heb. 4:15-16 ) To love life and see good days, you
must turn from doing evil and be obedient to God's word. In spite of 'feeling' depressed,you can live biblically because of divine resources that God graciously provides for you. By faith be in the spirit, see self in the Throne room looking at life from God's perspective
( Gal. 5:16 ; Rom. 8:2 ). Pursue peace and harmony, run after it, flee from fear,
agitating passions, and immorality ( Ps. 23:1,6 ).
( Rom. 14:17-18 ; 1 John 4:18-21 ; Phil. 4:6-7 ) The way you feel and the way you
view yourself, your relationships, and your circumstances are often indications of whether you are living to please yourself or living to please the God. It is not the world or things of the world that should occupy our thoughts and time, but are you approaching life from God's perspective, living and thinking God's word. Fear, darkness, depression reveal an absence of loving God and my neighbor. It is our thinking which refuses to be taught by Christ or anyone else. This spirit exalts itself against God - the spirit of antichrist.
Hope
( John 16:33 ; Rom. 5:3-5 ; 1 Cor. 10:13 ) No matter how difficult any situation
appears, the Lord Jesus Christ has overcame it. God will not allow anything into your life that is beyond His control or beyond your ability to handle it without sinning. Trials are for your good, they will bring out the power of God in your life when you respond biblically.
( 1 Pet. 1:6-7 ; 2 Cor. 4:7-10 ) All the terrible things that are happening to you are but'light afflictions'. Look beyond the circumstances and see God in control, perfecting and maturing you for an eternal destiny.
Change
( 1 Tim. 4:7-11 ; Rom. 6:11,13,19 ) All that I am, my talents, my time belong to the
Lord. A good steward is one who starts with God and from God. He puts off disobedience to God's word, and puts on living a disciplined and obedient life out of a consistent desire to please the Lord instead of self. Persistency is the key, it takes sweat and tears to break lifelong habit patterns.
( Matt. 7:1-5 ; 2 Cor. 10:3-5 ; Col. 3:2,5-9 ) In order to put off sinful habits, you must first identify them by examining your life in light of God's word. Once you have identified sins, repent, confess, and immediately put these sins aside.
( Gal. 5:16 ; Eph. 3:16-21 ; 1 Pet. 4:11 ) As you put on righteous deeds in the power
of the Holy Spirit, you are to glorify God to demonstrate your love for Him and to please Him in all things. We are to do regardless of how we feel. Be conscious of and practice the Presence of Christ within at all times.
Practice
( Eph. 5:14-18 ; James 4:17 ; Col. 3:17,23-24 ) Establish a biblical schedule for
fulfilling your God given responsibilities, keeping the schedule regardless of feelings of depression you may experience. Do all your work heartily as unto the Lord for His glory.
( 2 Cor. 4:10-12 ; Matt. 20:26-28 ; Phil. 2:3-7 ) Stop living to please self by following God's commandments. Regard others as more important than yourself, be a servant to God and others.
( 2 Cor. 12:7-10 ; Eph. 5:20 ; Heb. 12:1-2 ; Rev. 12:11 ) Do not be bitter about your
conditions, thank God for your circumstances or physical condition that you cannot
correct. But correct all deficiencies in your life that hinder you from serving God and others. Share your sufferings with the Lord and deepen your faith.
( 1 Cor. 11:31 ; Eph. 4:29 ; Col. 4:6 ; 2 Cor. 10:5 ; James 1:25 ) Biblical selfevaluation is necessary in every area of your life which includes your actions, your relationships with others, your words and your thought life. As you obey God's word in all areas of your life, you will receive the Lord's blessings.
Perspective
• Depression is essentially irresponsibility. There are some organic
malfunctions that may trigger feelings of depression. Most symptoms and
maladies defined as depression are the consequences of unbiblical habits
and/or sinful reactions to circumstances and other people. Depression
may be experienced by anyone and must be dealt with from God's
perspective and not from your own perspective or any other person's
philosophy.
( Gen. 4:3-7 ) God commands us by His word not to live by our feelings, but to decide
by my will to respond in a manner which is pleasing in His sight. To react to please self is to be mastered by the reactions which is sin.
( John 15:8-12 ; James 1:22-25 ) Depression is not to be used as an excuse for you to
live in an unbiblical manner. Even if you feel depressed, you are still to live biblically. Your thoughts, words, and actions are always to edify others and bring glory to God instead of just obeying God's word when you "feel like it".
( Ps. 32:3-5 ; Ps. 38:1-10 ; Col. 3:25 ) Symptoms defined as 'depression' are
sometimes precipitated by sin which means you are living to please yourself instead of living to please the Lord. If you do not repent, confess your self-centeredness and return to living in a biblical manner, you will experience even further difficulties.
( 1 Pet. 3:10-12 ; Rom. 8:11-14 ; Heb. 4:15-16 ) To love life and see good days, you
must turn from doing evil and be obedient to God's word. In spite of 'feeling' depressed,you can live biblically because of divine resources that God graciously provides for you. By faith be in the spirit, see self in the Throne room looking at life from God's perspective
( Gal. 5:16 ; Rom. 8:2 ). Pursue peace and harmony, run after it, flee from fear,
agitating passions, and immorality ( Ps. 23:1,6 ).
( Rom. 14:17-18 ; 1 John 4:18-21 ; Phil. 4:6-7 ) The way you feel and the way you
view yourself, your relationships, and your circumstances are often indications of whether you are living to please yourself or living to please the God. It is not the world or things of the world that should occupy our thoughts and time, but are you approaching life from God's perspective, living and thinking God's word. Fear, darkness, depression reveal an absence of loving God and my neighbor. It is our thinking which refuses to be taught by Christ or anyone else. This spirit exalts itself against God - the spirit of antichrist.
Hope
( John 16:33 ; Rom. 5:3-5 ; 1 Cor. 10:13 ) No matter how difficult any situation
appears, the Lord Jesus Christ has overcame it. God will not allow anything into your life that is beyond His control or beyond your ability to handle it without sinning. Trials are for your good, they will bring out the power of God in your life when you respond biblically.
( 1 Pet. 1:6-7 ; 2 Cor. 4:7-10 ) All the terrible things that are happening to you are but'light afflictions'. Look beyond the circumstances and see God in control, perfecting and maturing you for an eternal destiny.
Change
( 1 Tim. 4:7-11 ; Rom. 6:11,13,19 ) All that I am, my talents, my time belong to the
Lord. A good steward is one who starts with God and from God. He puts off disobedience to God's word, and puts on living a disciplined and obedient life out of a consistent desire to please the Lord instead of self. Persistency is the key, it takes sweat and tears to break lifelong habit patterns.
( Matt. 7:1-5 ; 2 Cor. 10:3-5 ; Col. 3:2,5-9 ) In order to put off sinful habits, you must first identify them by examining your life in light of God's word. Once you have identified sins, repent, confess, and immediately put these sins aside.
( Gal. 5:16 ; Eph. 3:16-21 ; 1 Pet. 4:11 ) As you put on righteous deeds in the power
of the Holy Spirit, you are to glorify God to demonstrate your love for Him and to please Him in all things. We are to do regardless of how we feel. Be conscious of and practice the Presence of Christ within at all times.
Practice
( Eph. 5:14-18 ; James 4:17 ; Col. 3:17,23-24 ) Establish a biblical schedule for
fulfilling your God given responsibilities, keeping the schedule regardless of feelings of depression you may experience. Do all your work heartily as unto the Lord for His glory.
( 2 Cor. 4:10-12 ; Matt. 20:26-28 ; Phil. 2:3-7 ) Stop living to please self by following God's commandments. Regard others as more important than yourself, be a servant to God and others.
( 2 Cor. 12:7-10 ; Eph. 5:20 ; Heb. 12:1-2 ; Rev. 12:11 ) Do not be bitter about your
conditions, thank God for your circumstances or physical condition that you cannot
correct. But correct all deficiencies in your life that hinder you from serving God and others. Share your sufferings with the Lord and deepen your faith.
( 1 Cor. 11:31 ; Eph. 4:29 ; Col. 4:6 ; 2 Cor. 10:5 ; James 1:25 ) Biblical selfevaluation is necessary in every area of your life which includes your actions, your relationships with others, your words and your thought life. As you obey God's word in all areas of your life, you will receive the Lord's blessings.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Rejoice In The Lord Always!- Philippians 4:4
Rejoice In The Lord Always!- Philippians 4:4
INTRODUCTION
1. In the final chapter of Philippians, we find Paul giving exhortations that are both specific and general in nature...
a. We saw in vs. 1-3 where Paul gave specific exhortations to individuals there at Philippi
b. Now in vs. 4, we find the first of several exhortations which are certainly needful for all Christians: “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!”
2. You may recall that “joy” is the keynote of this epistle
a. No less than sixteen times in this epistle, Paul uses the word or a derivation of it!
b. Cf. Ph 1:4,18 (twice) ,25; 2:2,17 (twice), 18 (twice) ,28,29; 3:1; 4:1,4 (twice), 10
[In this study, I will share a few observations about how we are to “Rejoice In The Lord Always!” First, notice that...]
I. THIS JOY IS TO BE EXPERIENCED “ALWAYS”
A. NOT JUST AN OCCASIONAL EXPERIENCE, FOR EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE...
1. But in darkness as well as in light; in trials as well as in triumphs - cf. Ja 1:2-3; Ro 5:3-4
2. Not just for apostles, but for all Christians - cf. Ja 1:2-3; 1 Pe 4:12-13
B. CONSIDER THE EXAMPLE OF PAUL, WHO FOUND JOY “ALWAYS”...
1. In his prayers - Ph 1:4
2. In the proclamation of the gospel under adverse circumstances - Ph 1:18
3. In the unity of the saints - Ph 2:2
4. In the prospect of being a martyr for Christ - Ph 2:17
5. In the love of the brethren - Ph 4:10
[Truly Paul rejoiced “always”! But what was his secret? What was the source of this abiding joy?]
II. THIS ABIDING JOY IS FOUND “IN THE LORD”
A. THERE MAY BE “TEMPORARY” JOY...
1. In drugs (including alcohol and tobacco)
2. In sexual pleasures (whether lawful or unlawful)
3. In material acquisitions
-- But these are at best like riches, which “make themselves wings; they fly away like an eagle toward heaven” (Pro 23:5); and at worst, are “the passing pleasures of sin”(He 11:25)
B. BUT THE JOY THAT “ABIDES” IS ONLY “IN THE LORD”...
1. I.e., that which comes from a personal, living and fruitful relationship with the Lord
2. For “in the Lord” we enjoy:
a. Peace with God - Ro 5:2
b. Help in temptations - 1 Co 10:13; Ph 4:13
c. Assurance of God’s companionship in time of trial - He 13:5-6
3. These are the sort of things which provide a true and lasting joy
[Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be able to experience this “abiding joy”? Well, why don’t we? Why do many of those who have a personal relationship with the Lord often find themselves lacking joy in all circumstances? Perhaps it is because...]
III. THERE ARE OFTEN HINDRANCES TO “ABIDING JOY”
A. MEMORIES OF PAST FAILURES; AWARENESS OF PRESENT FAULTS...
1. Such often leaves people in a state of discouragement or depression
2. Paul, however, provides the solution in Ph 3:12-14
a. Realize your imperfection, yet press on to better things!
b. Forget your past failures, reach forward to future successes!
B. NATURAL TEMPERAMENT OR DISPOSITION...
1. Many people are naturally “melancholy”
a. Through genetic predisposition toward such an attitude
b. Or through environmental influences as we were growing up
2. Yet in Christ, we can be transformed (Ro 12:1-2) and produce the “fruit of the Spirit” which includes “joy” - Ga 5:22
C. DEPRESSING CIRCUMSTANCES...
1. It is easy to be joyful when everything is going well, but when things wrong, well...
2. However, we see from the Scriptures that even those times can be a time for rejoicing if we have the right “perspective” - Ja 1:2-4
D. SYMPATHY WITH OTHERS...
1. Certainly, a compassionate heart cannot be untouched by the hardships of others - cf. Ro 12:15
2. And yet, properly spoken words of comfort and counsel can provide a joyful reprieve from the hardships others bear - cf. Pr 16:24
CONCLUSION
1. “Rejoice in the Lord always”...
a. Does not mean one is to be insensitive to the harsh realities of life
b. But it does mean that one does not let the dark realities of life blind him to the radiance of joy that is found in the Lord!
2. Have you found yourself going through life without the “abiding joy” discussed in our text, that joy which Peter himself defines as “inexpressible” (1 Pe 1:8)?
3. If so, then make your relationship with the Lord what it ought to be...
a. First by rendering complete obedience to His Will
b. And then by letting the counsel of His Spirit-given Word give you the perspectives necessary to “Rejoice In The Lord Always!”
INTRODUCTION
1. In the final chapter of Philippians, we find Paul giving exhortations that are both specific and general in nature...
a. We saw in vs. 1-3 where Paul gave specific exhortations to individuals there at Philippi
b. Now in vs. 4, we find the first of several exhortations which are certainly needful for all Christians: “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!”
2. You may recall that “joy” is the keynote of this epistle
a. No less than sixteen times in this epistle, Paul uses the word or a derivation of it!
b. Cf. Ph 1:4,18 (twice) ,25; 2:2,17 (twice), 18 (twice) ,28,29; 3:1; 4:1,4 (twice), 10
[In this study, I will share a few observations about how we are to “Rejoice In The Lord Always!” First, notice that...]
I. THIS JOY IS TO BE EXPERIENCED “ALWAYS”
A. NOT JUST AN OCCASIONAL EXPERIENCE, FOR EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE...
1. But in darkness as well as in light; in trials as well as in triumphs - cf. Ja 1:2-3; Ro 5:3-4
2. Not just for apostles, but for all Christians - cf. Ja 1:2-3; 1 Pe 4:12-13
B. CONSIDER THE EXAMPLE OF PAUL, WHO FOUND JOY “ALWAYS”...
1. In his prayers - Ph 1:4
2. In the proclamation of the gospel under adverse circumstances - Ph 1:18
3. In the unity of the saints - Ph 2:2
4. In the prospect of being a martyr for Christ - Ph 2:17
5. In the love of the brethren - Ph 4:10
[Truly Paul rejoiced “always”! But what was his secret? What was the source of this abiding joy?]
II. THIS ABIDING JOY IS FOUND “IN THE LORD”
A. THERE MAY BE “TEMPORARY” JOY...
1. In drugs (including alcohol and tobacco)
2. In sexual pleasures (whether lawful or unlawful)
3. In material acquisitions
-- But these are at best like riches, which “make themselves wings; they fly away like an eagle toward heaven” (Pro 23:5); and at worst, are “the passing pleasures of sin”(He 11:25)
B. BUT THE JOY THAT “ABIDES” IS ONLY “IN THE LORD”...
1. I.e., that which comes from a personal, living and fruitful relationship with the Lord
2. For “in the Lord” we enjoy:
a. Peace with God - Ro 5:2
b. Help in temptations - 1 Co 10:13; Ph 4:13
c. Assurance of God’s companionship in time of trial - He 13:5-6
3. These are the sort of things which provide a true and lasting joy
[Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be able to experience this “abiding joy”? Well, why don’t we? Why do many of those who have a personal relationship with the Lord often find themselves lacking joy in all circumstances? Perhaps it is because...]
III. THERE ARE OFTEN HINDRANCES TO “ABIDING JOY”
A. MEMORIES OF PAST FAILURES; AWARENESS OF PRESENT FAULTS...
1. Such often leaves people in a state of discouragement or depression
2. Paul, however, provides the solution in Ph 3:12-14
a. Realize your imperfection, yet press on to better things!
b. Forget your past failures, reach forward to future successes!
B. NATURAL TEMPERAMENT OR DISPOSITION...
1. Many people are naturally “melancholy”
a. Through genetic predisposition toward such an attitude
b. Or through environmental influences as we were growing up
2. Yet in Christ, we can be transformed (Ro 12:1-2) and produce the “fruit of the Spirit” which includes “joy” - Ga 5:22
C. DEPRESSING CIRCUMSTANCES...
1. It is easy to be joyful when everything is going well, but when things wrong, well...
2. However, we see from the Scriptures that even those times can be a time for rejoicing if we have the right “perspective” - Ja 1:2-4
D. SYMPATHY WITH OTHERS...
1. Certainly, a compassionate heart cannot be untouched by the hardships of others - cf. Ro 12:15
2. And yet, properly spoken words of comfort and counsel can provide a joyful reprieve from the hardships others bear - cf. Pr 16:24
CONCLUSION
1. “Rejoice in the Lord always”...
a. Does not mean one is to be insensitive to the harsh realities of life
b. But it does mean that one does not let the dark realities of life blind him to the radiance of joy that is found in the Lord!
2. Have you found yourself going through life without the “abiding joy” discussed in our text, that joy which Peter himself defines as “inexpressible” (1 Pe 1:8)?
3. If so, then make your relationship with the Lord what it ought to be...
a. First by rendering complete obedience to His Will
b. And then by letting the counsel of His Spirit-given Word give you the perspectives necessary to “Rejoice In The Lord Always!”
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
The Art Of Making Peace- Philippians 4:1-3
The Art Of Making Peace- Philippians 4:1-3
INTRODUCTION
1. Even in “good” churches you often find brethren who have differences with each other; such was the case with the church at Philippi
2. As Paul continues with various exhortations to the Christian life, at this point he addresses his comments concerning a rift that apparently existed among two members at Philippi - Ph 4:1-3
3. How Paul approaches the sensitive task of trying to make peace between Euodia and Syntyche provides several lessons in the use of tact...
a. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are to be known as “peacemakers” (Mt 5:9)
b. From Paul, then, let us learn what we can about “The Art Of Making Peace”
[The first lesson, gleaned from verse one, is...]
I. THE PEACEMAKER MUST LOVE THOSE ON BOTH SIDES (1)
A. PAUL STARTS OUT BY EXPRESSING HIS LOVE...
1. Note the terms used by Paul...
a. “my brothers”
b. “beloved and longed for”
c. “my joy and crown”
d. “beloved”
2. Truly Paul loved the people at Philippi!
B. PEACEMAKERS MUST DO THE SAME...
1. They must have sincere love for those on both sides of an issue
2. They must be able and willing to express their love, as did Paul
3. Otherwise, they cannot be useful arbitrators in making peace
a. Loving one side, and not the other, makes impartial judgments impossible
b. The peacemaker’s advice and counsel will be open to suspicion
[With mutual love for those on both sides, the peacemaker is in a position to render a fair evaluation of the problem and the solution. Next, we see that...]
II. THE PEACEMAKER SHOULD TREAT BOTH SIDES TENDERLY AND EQUALLY
(2)
A. IN THE CASE OF PAUL...
1. Note the use of the verb “implore” (KJV, “beseech”) - parakaleo {par-ak-al-eh’-o}
a. To call to one’s side, call for, summon
b. To address, speak to, (call to, call upon), which may be done in the way of exhortation,entreaty, comfort, instruction, etc.
-- Rather than command, Paul chooses to plead with them
2. Note the repeated and equal use of the verb “implore”
a. “I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche”
b. Rather than take sides, Paul treats them both tenderly and equally
B. THERE IS A NEED FOR SUCH PEACEMAKERS TODAY...
1. Individuals who will use tenderness and fairness in treating those in a dispute
2. Again, remaining impartial, so the counsel will not tainted with any accusation of bias
[The next insight we can glean from Paul in “The Art Of Making Peace” is...]
III. THE PEACEMAKER MUST SEEK FOR ONENESS OF MIND (2)
A. NOTE PAUL’S OBJECTIVE...
1. That Euodia and Syntyche “be of the same mind in the Lord”
2. A concern of Paul already expressed in this epistle, that there be - Ph 1:27; 2:2
3. But now applied especially to these two ladies
B. IN MAKING PEACE, THERE MUST BE ONENESS OF MIND...
1. In many “peace agreements”, the participants have not truly reached a oneness of mind,only a compromise
2. Such “agreements” are often only temporary, destroyed when the remaining differences eventually resurface
3. For Christians, seeking to “be of the same mind in the Lord” becomes easy if we all strive to have “the mind of Christ” - Ph 2:2-5
[Not content with only a “cessation of hostilities”, the peacemaker seeks to go much further, dealing with the divisiveness of mind that is the true cause of the problem. Note also, that...]
IV. THE PEACEMAKER MUST USE ASSISTANCE WHEN AVAILABLE (3)
A. PAUL WAS NOT TOO PROUD TO CALL FOR HELP...
1. He sought out the assistance of “Syzygus”
a. Literally, “yoke-fellow, true companion”
b. Possibly his true name, which if so, he was being called upon by Paul to live up to his name!
2. Paul wanted this individual to help these ladies out
B. PEACEMAKERS WILL GLADLY USE THE HELP OTHERS CAN GIVE...
1. Humble, they do not feel like they have to do it all
2. Aware of others who may be in a position to provide counsel or other means of help, they will glad utilize them
3. Their goal is to make peace, not a reputation for themselves!
[Finally, we can glean from Paul that...]
V. THE PEACEMAKER MUST SEE THE GOOD AND GIVE CREDIT WHEN DUE (3)
A. PAUL DID NOT LOSE SIGHT OF WHOSE THESE WOMEN WERE...
1. They had labored with Paul in the gospel
2. They had labored with Clement
3. They had labored with Paul’s other fellow-workers as well (who though not mentioned by name, had their names in the “Book of Life” - cf. Re 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12,15; 21:27;22:19)
B. SO PEACEMAKERS MUST REMEMBER THE GOOD IN THOSE WITH WHOM
THEY DEAL...
1. It is so easy to forget that those having problems likely have much good to their credit
2. Recognizing this and giving credit where it is due increases the likelihood that one’s advice will be heeded
CONCLUSION
1. In a world that is as divided as ours, there is a grave need for those who can serve as faithful and effective “peacemakers”
2. Hopefully, by considering and applying “The Art Of Making Peace” as exemplified by the apostle Paul in this passage, we may be useful to the Lord when called upon to bring divided people together!
INTRODUCTION
1. Even in “good” churches you often find brethren who have differences with each other; such was the case with the church at Philippi
2. As Paul continues with various exhortations to the Christian life, at this point he addresses his comments concerning a rift that apparently existed among two members at Philippi - Ph 4:1-3
3. How Paul approaches the sensitive task of trying to make peace between Euodia and Syntyche provides several lessons in the use of tact...
a. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are to be known as “peacemakers” (Mt 5:9)
b. From Paul, then, let us learn what we can about “The Art Of Making Peace”
[The first lesson, gleaned from verse one, is...]
I. THE PEACEMAKER MUST LOVE THOSE ON BOTH SIDES (1)
A. PAUL STARTS OUT BY EXPRESSING HIS LOVE...
1. Note the terms used by Paul...
a. “my brothers”
b. “beloved and longed for”
c. “my joy and crown”
d. “beloved”
2. Truly Paul loved the people at Philippi!
B. PEACEMAKERS MUST DO THE SAME...
1. They must have sincere love for those on both sides of an issue
2. They must be able and willing to express their love, as did Paul
3. Otherwise, they cannot be useful arbitrators in making peace
a. Loving one side, and not the other, makes impartial judgments impossible
b. The peacemaker’s advice and counsel will be open to suspicion
[With mutual love for those on both sides, the peacemaker is in a position to render a fair evaluation of the problem and the solution. Next, we see that...]
II. THE PEACEMAKER SHOULD TREAT BOTH SIDES TENDERLY AND EQUALLY
(2)
A. IN THE CASE OF PAUL...
1. Note the use of the verb “implore” (KJV, “beseech”) - parakaleo {par-ak-al-eh’-o}
a. To call to one’s side, call for, summon
b. To address, speak to, (call to, call upon), which may be done in the way of exhortation,entreaty, comfort, instruction, etc.
-- Rather than command, Paul chooses to plead with them
2. Note the repeated and equal use of the verb “implore”
a. “I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche”
b. Rather than take sides, Paul treats them both tenderly and equally
B. THERE IS A NEED FOR SUCH PEACEMAKERS TODAY...
1. Individuals who will use tenderness and fairness in treating those in a dispute
2. Again, remaining impartial, so the counsel will not tainted with any accusation of bias
[The next insight we can glean from Paul in “The Art Of Making Peace” is...]
III. THE PEACEMAKER MUST SEEK FOR ONENESS OF MIND (2)
A. NOTE PAUL’S OBJECTIVE...
1. That Euodia and Syntyche “be of the same mind in the Lord”
2. A concern of Paul already expressed in this epistle, that there be - Ph 1:27; 2:2
3. But now applied especially to these two ladies
B. IN MAKING PEACE, THERE MUST BE ONENESS OF MIND...
1. In many “peace agreements”, the participants have not truly reached a oneness of mind,only a compromise
2. Such “agreements” are often only temporary, destroyed when the remaining differences eventually resurface
3. For Christians, seeking to “be of the same mind in the Lord” becomes easy if we all strive to have “the mind of Christ” - Ph 2:2-5
[Not content with only a “cessation of hostilities”, the peacemaker seeks to go much further, dealing with the divisiveness of mind that is the true cause of the problem. Note also, that...]
IV. THE PEACEMAKER MUST USE ASSISTANCE WHEN AVAILABLE (3)
A. PAUL WAS NOT TOO PROUD TO CALL FOR HELP...
1. He sought out the assistance of “Syzygus”
a. Literally, “yoke-fellow, true companion”
b. Possibly his true name, which if so, he was being called upon by Paul to live up to his name!
2. Paul wanted this individual to help these ladies out
B. PEACEMAKERS WILL GLADLY USE THE HELP OTHERS CAN GIVE...
1. Humble, they do not feel like they have to do it all
2. Aware of others who may be in a position to provide counsel or other means of help, they will glad utilize them
3. Their goal is to make peace, not a reputation for themselves!
[Finally, we can glean from Paul that...]
V. THE PEACEMAKER MUST SEE THE GOOD AND GIVE CREDIT WHEN DUE (3)
A. PAUL DID NOT LOSE SIGHT OF WHOSE THESE WOMEN WERE...
1. They had labored with Paul in the gospel
2. They had labored with Clement
3. They had labored with Paul’s other fellow-workers as well (who though not mentioned by name, had their names in the “Book of Life” - cf. Re 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12,15; 21:27;22:19)
B. SO PEACEMAKERS MUST REMEMBER THE GOOD IN THOSE WITH WHOM
THEY DEAL...
1. It is so easy to forget that those having problems likely have much good to their credit
2. Recognizing this and giving credit where it is due increases the likelihood that one’s advice will be heeded
CONCLUSION
1. In a world that is as divided as ours, there is a grave need for those who can serve as faithful and effective “peacemakers”
2. Hopefully, by considering and applying “The Art Of Making Peace” as exemplified by the apostle Paul in this passage, we may be useful to the Lord when called upon to bring divided people together!
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