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.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
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!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
The Epistle To The Philippians- Chapter Four
The Epistle To The Philippians- Chapter Four
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To notice Paul's tactfulness in dealing with Euodia and Syntyche
2) To glean Paul's secrets for joy, peace, contentment, and strength
3) To consider how Paul viewed the Philippians' generosity towards him
SUMMARY
This final chapter begins with a series of exhortations to unity, joy, and peace. With great affection, Paul pleads with his beloved Philippians to stand fast in the Lord (1). With great diplomacy and a call for assistance from others, he implores Euodia and Syntyche to be of one mind in the Lord (3-4). He then follows with a call for them to rejoice always in the Lord, letting their gentleness be known to all, and through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving to allow the peace of God remove any anxiety (5-7). His final exhortations include a call to meditate on things of virtue and worthy of praise, and to imitate his example in order to ensure that God will be with them (8-9).
At last he comes to the matter which occasioned this letter, expressing joy and gratitude for the gift they had sent to him by way of Epaphroditus. As they had done before on several occasions, so now they had provided for his necessities. He is thankful, even though he was quite content, for he knows that this gift really abounds to their account, serving as a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is well pleasing to God(10-19).
His closing remarks include praise to God, and greetings from those with him, especially members of Caesar's household. As was his custom, he closes with a final prayer that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with them all (20-23).
OUTLINE
I. EXHORTATIONS TO UNITY, JOY, AND PEACE (1-9)
A. AN APPEAL TO EUODIA AND SYNTYCHE (1-3)
1. Prefaced with an exhortation to stand fast in the Lord (1)
2. A plea for Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord (2)
3. A request for assistance in helping these women (3)
B. EXHORTATIONS TO REJOICE AND TO BE AT PEACE (4-9)
1. Rejoice in the Lord always, letting your gentleness be known to all (4-5)
2. Through prayer, allow the peace of God to guard your hearts from anxiety (6-7)
3. Meditate upon things worthy of virtue and praise, and follow Paul's example (8-9)
II. THANKSGIVING FOR THEIR GENEROSITY (10-23)
A. THEIR GIFT A SOURCE OF JOY TO PAUL (10-14)
1. Paul rejoiced when they were able to care for him again (10)
2. Not that he really had need (11-13)
a. For he had learned contentment (11-12)
b. For he had the strength of Christ (13)
3. But they have done well to share in his distress (14)
B. THEIR GIFT A SOURCE OF BLESSING FOR THEMSELVES (15-19)
1. A brief history of their giving to Paul (15-16)
2. Their giving abounds to their own account, viewed as an acceptable sacrifice to God(17-18)
3. God will supply all their needs according to His riches (19)
C. CONCLUDING REMARKS (20-23)
1. Praise to God (20)
2. Greetings from those with Paul, especially those of Caesar's household (21-22)
3. Final benediction of grace from the Lord Jesus Christ (23)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Exhortations to unity, joy, and peace (1-9)
- Thanksgiving for their generosity (10-23)
2) How does Paul describe his brethren as he exhorts them to stand fast in the Lord? (1)
- My beloved and longed-for brethren
- My joy and crown
3) What two women does Paul implore to be of the same mind in the Lord? (2)
- Euodia and Syntyche
4) What is said about these two women? (3)
- They labored with Paul in the gospel
- Their names were in the Book of Life
5) In what are we to rejoice always? (4)
- In the Lord
6) Why are we to let our gentleness (or moderation) be known to all men? (5)
- The Lord is at hand
7) What is the antidote for anxiety? (6)
- Letting our requests be made known to God with an attitude of thanksgiving
8) What will the peace of God do in response to such thankful prayer? (7)
- Guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus
9) Upon what should one meditate? (8)
- 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
- Anything of virtue, anything that is praiseworthy
10) How can one ensure that the God of peace will be them? (9)
- Do the things learned, received, heard, and seen in Paul
11) What had served as a source of great joy for Paul? (10)
- The Philippians' care for him flourishing again
12) What had Paul learned? (11-12)
- To be content in whatever state he found himself
13) How was Paul able to do all things? (13)
- Through Christ who strengthens him
14) When had the church at Philippi helped Paul before? (15-16)
- When he departed from Macedonia
- On at least two occasions when he was at Thessalonica
15) Why was Paul really pleased with their gift? (17)
- He knew that it added to their account
16) How did Paul view the gift they had sent by way of Epaphroditus? (18)
- A sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God
17) Who would provide help for the Philippians? (19)
- God, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus
18) Who in particular sent greetings to the Philippians by way of Paul? (22)
- Those of Caesar's household
19) What was Paul's final prayer for his beloved Philippians? (23)
- The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To notice Paul's tactfulness in dealing with Euodia and Syntyche
2) To glean Paul's secrets for joy, peace, contentment, and strength
3) To consider how Paul viewed the Philippians' generosity towards him
SUMMARY
This final chapter begins with a series of exhortations to unity, joy, and peace. With great affection, Paul pleads with his beloved Philippians to stand fast in the Lord (1). With great diplomacy and a call for assistance from others, he implores Euodia and Syntyche to be of one mind in the Lord (3-4). He then follows with a call for them to rejoice always in the Lord, letting their gentleness be known to all, and through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving to allow the peace of God remove any anxiety (5-7). His final exhortations include a call to meditate on things of virtue and worthy of praise, and to imitate his example in order to ensure that God will be with them (8-9).
At last he comes to the matter which occasioned this letter, expressing joy and gratitude for the gift they had sent to him by way of Epaphroditus. As they had done before on several occasions, so now they had provided for his necessities. He is thankful, even though he was quite content, for he knows that this gift really abounds to their account, serving as a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is well pleasing to God(10-19).
His closing remarks include praise to God, and greetings from those with him, especially members of Caesar's household. As was his custom, he closes with a final prayer that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with them all (20-23).
OUTLINE
I. EXHORTATIONS TO UNITY, JOY, AND PEACE (1-9)
A. AN APPEAL TO EUODIA AND SYNTYCHE (1-3)
1. Prefaced with an exhortation to stand fast in the Lord (1)
2. A plea for Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord (2)
3. A request for assistance in helping these women (3)
B. EXHORTATIONS TO REJOICE AND TO BE AT PEACE (4-9)
1. Rejoice in the Lord always, letting your gentleness be known to all (4-5)
2. Through prayer, allow the peace of God to guard your hearts from anxiety (6-7)
3. Meditate upon things worthy of virtue and praise, and follow Paul's example (8-9)
II. THANKSGIVING FOR THEIR GENEROSITY (10-23)
A. THEIR GIFT A SOURCE OF JOY TO PAUL (10-14)
1. Paul rejoiced when they were able to care for him again (10)
2. Not that he really had need (11-13)
a. For he had learned contentment (11-12)
b. For he had the strength of Christ (13)
3. But they have done well to share in his distress (14)
B. THEIR GIFT A SOURCE OF BLESSING FOR THEMSELVES (15-19)
1. A brief history of their giving to Paul (15-16)
2. Their giving abounds to their own account, viewed as an acceptable sacrifice to God(17-18)
3. God will supply all their needs according to His riches (19)
C. CONCLUDING REMARKS (20-23)
1. Praise to God (20)
2. Greetings from those with Paul, especially those of Caesar's household (21-22)
3. Final benediction of grace from the Lord Jesus Christ (23)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Exhortations to unity, joy, and peace (1-9)
- Thanksgiving for their generosity (10-23)
2) How does Paul describe his brethren as he exhorts them to stand fast in the Lord? (1)
- My beloved and longed-for brethren
- My joy and crown
3) What two women does Paul implore to be of the same mind in the Lord? (2)
- Euodia and Syntyche
4) What is said about these two women? (3)
- They labored with Paul in the gospel
- Their names were in the Book of Life
5) In what are we to rejoice always? (4)
- In the Lord
6) Why are we to let our gentleness (or moderation) be known to all men? (5)
- The Lord is at hand
7) What is the antidote for anxiety? (6)
- Letting our requests be made known to God with an attitude of thanksgiving
8) What will the peace of God do in response to such thankful prayer? (7)
- Guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus
9) Upon what should one meditate? (8)
- 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
- Anything of virtue, anything that is praiseworthy
10) How can one ensure that the God of peace will be them? (9)
- Do the things learned, received, heard, and seen in Paul
11) What had served as a source of great joy for Paul? (10)
- The Philippians' care for him flourishing again
12) What had Paul learned? (11-12)
- To be content in whatever state he found himself
13) How was Paul able to do all things? (13)
- Through Christ who strengthens him
14) When had the church at Philippi helped Paul before? (15-16)
- When he departed from Macedonia
- On at least two occasions when he was at Thessalonica
15) Why was Paul really pleased with their gift? (17)
- He knew that it added to their account
16) How did Paul view the gift they had sent by way of Epaphroditus? (18)
- A sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God
17) Who would provide help for the Philippians? (19)
- God, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus
18) Who in particular sent greetings to the Philippians by way of Paul? (22)
- Those of Caesar's household
19) What was Paul's final prayer for his beloved Philippians? (23)
- The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Two Ways To Walk- Philippians 3:17-21
Two Ways To Walk- Philippians 3:17-21
INTRODUCTION
1. As we continue our examination of Paul’s “epistle of joy”, we now find him discussing two different ways to walk in this life...
a. The walk of one who is “a citizen of heaven”
b. The walk of one who is “an enemy of the cross of Christ”
2. Hopefully, there should be no question as to which way we are to walk; but to better understand why, we will look closely at some reasons Paul gives in this passage
[First, we notice...]
I. AN ADMONITION TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (17)
A. “JOIN IN FOLLOWING MY EXAMPLE...”
1. Paul frequently encouraged others to follow his example - cf. Ph 4:9; 1 Co 4:16; 11:1
2. Some brethren evidently took him up on it - e.g., 1 Th 1:6-9
3. In what way were people to imitate Paul?
a. To the degree he tried to imitate Christ - 1 Co 11:1
b. Perhaps also in his devotion to Jesus Christ - cf. Ph 3:7-16
B. “NOTE THOSE WHO SO WALK, AS YOU HAVE US FOR A PATTERN...”
1. Just as there were some in Thessalonica who imitated Paul (1 Th 1:6-9), so there were those at Philippi who did the same, and were thus worthy of emulation
2. Noticing the examples of others can be very beneficial - cf. Psa 37:37
3. Especially when we consider the outcome of their conduct - cf. He 13:7
C. WE SHOULD NOT ONLY BE GOOD IMITATORS, BUT GOOD EXAMPLES
OURSELVES...!
1. This is especially true of those who teach and preach God’s Word - 1 Ti 4:12; Ti 2:7-8
2. Which includes those who serve as elders - He 13:7; 1 Pe 5:1-3
[The reasons for noting those who are worthy of emulation is given later in this passage. But first there is...]
II. A WARNING CONCERNING THOSE WHO WALK AS “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”
(18-19)
A. “OF WHOM I HAVE TOLD YOU OFTEN...”
1. Paul found repetition to be a valuable tool - cf. Ga 1:8,9; 5:21; Ph 3:1
2. Also, that it was necessary to be negative at times - cf. Ph 3:2
B. “AND NOW TELL YOU EVEN WEEPING...”
1. Negative preaching, when necessary, should not be done without compassion - e.g., 2 Co 2:4
2. Even here, Paul is setting the right example...
a. To love our enemies
b. Even those who are “enemies of the cross”!
C. WHO ARE THESE “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”...?
1. We know they are many people
a. “For many walk” - cf. Mt 7:13-14
b. So not just a few
2. We know their end
a. “whose end is destruction” - cf. 2 Th 1:7-9
b. Have we seriously considered the outcome of their conduct?
3. We know who is their God
a. “whose god is their belly”
b. I.e., those who are set on satisfying only their fleshly appetites
4. We know wherein is their glory
a. “whose glory is in their shame”
b. They take pride in things that are actually shameful
5. We know upon what they set their minds
a. “who set their mind on earthly things”
b. Contrast this with where Christians are to set their minds - Ph 4:8; Co 3:1-2
[Where is our “mindset”? How we answer may determine whether or not WE are “enemies of the cross of Christ”! As a motivation not to be “enemies of the cross”, we notice Paul now shares a few...]
III. REASONS TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (20-21)
A. “FOR OUR CITIZENSHIP IS IN HEAVEN...”
1. Our true loyalty is to that above, not that on earth!
2. It is there where our “inheritance” is reserved - 1 Pe 1:3-4
3. Therefore, we have special responsibilities - cf. 1 Pe 2:9-12
B. “WE EAGERLY WAIT FOR THE SAVIOR...WHO WILL TRANSFORM OUR
LOWLY BODY...”
1. Though now in heaven, our Savior is coming again one day! - Ac 1:9-11
2. When He does, what glory there will be for those who are “citizens of heaven”!
a. He will “transform our lowly body”!
b. It will be “conformed to His glorious body”
3. This He will do by the same power by which He subdues all things to Himself - cf. Mt 28: 18; 1 Pe 3:22
CONCLUSION
1. Are not these good reasons to walk like Paul?
2. Brethren, how are we walking in this life?
a. As “citizens of heaven”?
b. Or “enemies of the cross of Christ”?
3. The answer depends upon where we have set our MINDS:
a. If on EARTHLY things...we are “enemies of the cross of Christ”!
1) We make our bellies to be our god
2) We glory in that which is shameful
3) Our end will be destruction
b. But if on HEAVENLY things...we are “citizens of heaven”!
1) We eagerly await Christ’s coming
2) We eagerly await our transformation
4. Have you become...
a. A “citizen of heaven”? If not, why not become one today? - Jn 3:5
b. An “enemy of the cross”? If so, why not “defect” today? - 1 Pe 4:1-3
INTRODUCTION
1. As we continue our examination of Paul’s “epistle of joy”, we now find him discussing two different ways to walk in this life...
a. The walk of one who is “a citizen of heaven”
b. The walk of one who is “an enemy of the cross of Christ”
2. Hopefully, there should be no question as to which way we are to walk; but to better understand why, we will look closely at some reasons Paul gives in this passage
[First, we notice...]
I. AN ADMONITION TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (17)
A. “JOIN IN FOLLOWING MY EXAMPLE...”
1. Paul frequently encouraged others to follow his example - cf. Ph 4:9; 1 Co 4:16; 11:1
2. Some brethren evidently took him up on it - e.g., 1 Th 1:6-9
3. In what way were people to imitate Paul?
a. To the degree he tried to imitate Christ - 1 Co 11:1
b. Perhaps also in his devotion to Jesus Christ - cf. Ph 3:7-16
B. “NOTE THOSE WHO SO WALK, AS YOU HAVE US FOR A PATTERN...”
1. Just as there were some in Thessalonica who imitated Paul (1 Th 1:6-9), so there were those at Philippi who did the same, and were thus worthy of emulation
2. Noticing the examples of others can be very beneficial - cf. Psa 37:37
3. Especially when we consider the outcome of their conduct - cf. He 13:7
C. WE SHOULD NOT ONLY BE GOOD IMITATORS, BUT GOOD EXAMPLES
OURSELVES...!
1. This is especially true of those who teach and preach God’s Word - 1 Ti 4:12; Ti 2:7-8
2. Which includes those who serve as elders - He 13:7; 1 Pe 5:1-3
[The reasons for noting those who are worthy of emulation is given later in this passage. But first there is...]
II. A WARNING CONCERNING THOSE WHO WALK AS “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”
(18-19)
A. “OF WHOM I HAVE TOLD YOU OFTEN...”
1. Paul found repetition to be a valuable tool - cf. Ga 1:8,9; 5:21; Ph 3:1
2. Also, that it was necessary to be negative at times - cf. Ph 3:2
B. “AND NOW TELL YOU EVEN WEEPING...”
1. Negative preaching, when necessary, should not be done without compassion - e.g., 2 Co 2:4
2. Even here, Paul is setting the right example...
a. To love our enemies
b. Even those who are “enemies of the cross”!
C. WHO ARE THESE “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”...?
1. We know they are many people
a. “For many walk” - cf. Mt 7:13-14
b. So not just a few
2. We know their end
a. “whose end is destruction” - cf. 2 Th 1:7-9
b. Have we seriously considered the outcome of their conduct?
3. We know who is their God
a. “whose god is their belly”
b. I.e., those who are set on satisfying only their fleshly appetites
4. We know wherein is their glory
a. “whose glory is in their shame”
b. They take pride in things that are actually shameful
5. We know upon what they set their minds
a. “who set their mind on earthly things”
b. Contrast this with where Christians are to set their minds - Ph 4:8; Co 3:1-2
[Where is our “mindset”? How we answer may determine whether or not WE are “enemies of the cross of Christ”! As a motivation not to be “enemies of the cross”, we notice Paul now shares a few...]
III. REASONS TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (20-21)
A. “FOR OUR CITIZENSHIP IS IN HEAVEN...”
1. Our true loyalty is to that above, not that on earth!
2. It is there where our “inheritance” is reserved - 1 Pe 1:3-4
3. Therefore, we have special responsibilities - cf. 1 Pe 2:9-12
B. “WE EAGERLY WAIT FOR THE SAVIOR...WHO WILL TRANSFORM OUR
LOWLY BODY...”
1. Though now in heaven, our Savior is coming again one day! - Ac 1:9-11
2. When He does, what glory there will be for those who are “citizens of heaven”!
a. He will “transform our lowly body”!
b. It will be “conformed to His glorious body”
3. This He will do by the same power by which He subdues all things to Himself - cf. Mt 28: 18; 1 Pe 3:22
CONCLUSION
1. Are not these good reasons to walk like Paul?
2. Brethren, how are we walking in this life?
a. As “citizens of heaven”?
b. Or “enemies of the cross of Christ”?
3. The answer depends upon where we have set our MINDS:
a. If on EARTHLY things...we are “enemies of the cross of Christ”!
1) We make our bellies to be our god
2) We glory in that which is shameful
3) Our end will be destruction
b. But if on HEAVENLY things...we are “citizens of heaven”!
1) We eagerly await Christ’s coming
2) We eagerly await our transformation
4. Have you become...
a. A “citizen of heaven”? If not, why not become one today? - Jn 3:5
b. An “enemy of the cross”? If so, why not “defect” today? - 1 Pe 4:1-3
Friday, September 24, 2010
4.6. Anger and Bitterness
4.6. Anger and Bitterness
We are the sum of what we experienced in life and our reactions to these experiences. To the extent we are offended, become angry and irritated, we are limited to that extent in our spiritual walk.
• ( Rom. 12:10-11 ; Gal. 6:1 ) Our job is to restore, not to condemn or
criticize, so that we can establish God's Kingdom of peace on earth by
walking free of irritations, of criticism, of faultfinding, of blame shifting.
This is accomplished by purity of heart, love and prayers for each other,
consciousness of being in the spirit by faith ( Gal. 5:22-23 ).
• ( Eph. 4:31-32 ; Gal. 6:14 ) By an act of our will, we put-off, and by an
act of the will we put-on being a blessing. No longer controlled by life's
irritations, but we use these irritations as opportunities to reveal Christ
within to touch the other person(s).
• ( Matt. 12:34-35 ) No one or thing is the cause of your anger. The
offense reveals the spirit that is in you. Sinful anger reveals that you are
living to please self.
• ( Eph. 2:1-6 ) Desires of the flesh and mind are inhabited by envy,
jealousy, greed, and pride: the sources of anger. The enemy's job is to
keep you occupied and earthbound by these selfish feelings. This will keep
you from realizing the fullness of who and what you are in Christ Jesus.
• ( Rom. 5:3-5 ) Anger and bitterness are two noticeable signs of being
self-focused, and not trusting God's sovereignty in your life. Don't need to
protect your 'rights', the defense of self. The very things that upset you,
God will use to perfect and to motivate you to work through these
tribulations, becoming a blessing instead of a curse.
• ( 2 Pet. 1:4 ) Being a partaker of the divine nature, working through the
experiences of life God's way, we begin to realize that we are growing in
Christ, and truly being freed from the corruption of this world.
• ( Matt. 5:16 ; Eph. 4:1-3 ) Anger and bitterness are formidable
obstacles to biblical love, harmonious relationships, and maturity in Christ.
Failing to put off anger grieves the Holy Spirit and gives Satan a place in
your life obscuring your witness to others, and disrupting unity in the
body of Christ. Dealing biblically with anger and bitterness requires
wholehearted obedience to God's word in every circumstance and with
every person, even if your feelings dictate otherwise.
• ( 1 Pet. 1:13-16 ; Eph. 2:10 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) Anger and bitterness
have no place in thought. We are to think dispassionately. The world lives
by experiences, by reason, by feelings, but we are to live by faith. We are
to live above experiences and reason. In order to think with security, we
must think about thinking. A thinking person realizes who and what he is
in Christ. He is above feelings and lives by his will based on the word of
God. He fights a good fight of faith, not feelings, and he pursues
excellencies being daily conformed to the image of Christ.
• ( Gen. 4:7 ; Prov. 24:10 ; Prov. 21:22 ) You are responsible for
controlling your spirit. Since God's word commands you to put away anger
and bitterness, then it is possible to do so.
• ( Luke 9:23 ; Gal. 5:16-17 ) Because of the ever-present temptation to
live for self rather than to live for God, you must obey God's word, pray
habitually, constantly depend on God's Spirit.
• ( Col. 1:10 ) You are not to allow anger to get the upper hand and gain
control of your mind or conduct, since Satan uses these opportunities to
affect your life. You must live in a manner to please the Lord no matter
how you feel.
• ( James 1:19-20 ) Quick to listen means to be quick to ask questions, to
get facts, to give time for the Holy Spirit to control you, then you can act
in a biblical manner.
Think Biblically
( Phil. 4:8 ; Ps. 23:1-6 ) We are to think biblically that God has promised to care for us in any situation, no matter how unsettling it may seem. Discipline your mind to honor and glorify God, to please Him in all situations. "Think" kind and tender thoughts toward the very person with whom you are or have been irritated. Focus your thoughts on solving the current problem ( James 1:5 ; James 3:13-18 ).
Speak Biblically
( Ps. 51:1-4 ; James 5:16 ; 1 John 1:9 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) We are to speak biblically,
confess sins to the Lord and to those whom you have failed to love in a biblical manner. Don't talk about your past accomplishments, sorrows or defeats, hurts and pains but talk about the goodness of God in your life. Do not slander, gossip or use words that do not edify ( Prov. 10:18 ; Eph. 4:29 ).
Act Biblically
( Col. 3:13 ; James 1:21 ) Forgive others readily as God has forgiven you. Meditate on Scriptures related to overcoming anger and bitterness to remove the root of the foul spirit within.
( Ps. 1:1 ) Identify all danger signals, such as situations, places and personal contacts that bring temptation.
( Matt. 5:23-24 ) Make amends for wrongdoing and seek reconciliation.
( 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) We are called to be a blessing especially to those who revile us.
We are the sum of what we experienced in life and our reactions to these experiences. To the extent we are offended, become angry and irritated, we are limited to that extent in our spiritual walk.
• ( Rom. 12:10-11 ; Gal. 6:1 ) Our job is to restore, not to condemn or
criticize, so that we can establish God's Kingdom of peace on earth by
walking free of irritations, of criticism, of faultfinding, of blame shifting.
This is accomplished by purity of heart, love and prayers for each other,
consciousness of being in the spirit by faith ( Gal. 5:22-23 ).
• ( Eph. 4:31-32 ; Gal. 6:14 ) By an act of our will, we put-off, and by an
act of the will we put-on being a blessing. No longer controlled by life's
irritations, but we use these irritations as opportunities to reveal Christ
within to touch the other person(s).
• ( Matt. 12:34-35 ) No one or thing is the cause of your anger. The
offense reveals the spirit that is in you. Sinful anger reveals that you are
living to please self.
• ( Eph. 2:1-6 ) Desires of the flesh and mind are inhabited by envy,
jealousy, greed, and pride: the sources of anger. The enemy's job is to
keep you occupied and earthbound by these selfish feelings. This will keep
you from realizing the fullness of who and what you are in Christ Jesus.
• ( Rom. 5:3-5 ) Anger and bitterness are two noticeable signs of being
self-focused, and not trusting God's sovereignty in your life. Don't need to
protect your 'rights', the defense of self. The very things that upset you,
God will use to perfect and to motivate you to work through these
tribulations, becoming a blessing instead of a curse.
• ( 2 Pet. 1:4 ) Being a partaker of the divine nature, working through the
experiences of life God's way, we begin to realize that we are growing in
Christ, and truly being freed from the corruption of this world.
• ( Matt. 5:16 ; Eph. 4:1-3 ) Anger and bitterness are formidable
obstacles to biblical love, harmonious relationships, and maturity in Christ.
Failing to put off anger grieves the Holy Spirit and gives Satan a place in
your life obscuring your witness to others, and disrupting unity in the
body of Christ. Dealing biblically with anger and bitterness requires
wholehearted obedience to God's word in every circumstance and with
every person, even if your feelings dictate otherwise.
• ( 1 Pet. 1:13-16 ; Eph. 2:10 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) Anger and bitterness
have no place in thought. We are to think dispassionately. The world lives
by experiences, by reason, by feelings, but we are to live by faith. We are
to live above experiences and reason. In order to think with security, we
must think about thinking. A thinking person realizes who and what he is
in Christ. He is above feelings and lives by his will based on the word of
God. He fights a good fight of faith, not feelings, and he pursues
excellencies being daily conformed to the image of Christ.
• ( Gen. 4:7 ; Prov. 24:10 ; Prov. 21:22 ) You are responsible for
controlling your spirit. Since God's word commands you to put away anger
and bitterness, then it is possible to do so.
• ( Luke 9:23 ; Gal. 5:16-17 ) Because of the ever-present temptation to
live for self rather than to live for God, you must obey God's word, pray
habitually, constantly depend on God's Spirit.
• ( Col. 1:10 ) You are not to allow anger to get the upper hand and gain
control of your mind or conduct, since Satan uses these opportunities to
affect your life. You must live in a manner to please the Lord no matter
how you feel.
• ( James 1:19-20 ) Quick to listen means to be quick to ask questions, to
get facts, to give time for the Holy Spirit to control you, then you can act
in a biblical manner.
Think Biblically
( Phil. 4:8 ; Ps. 23:1-6 ) We are to think biblically that God has promised to care for us in any situation, no matter how unsettling it may seem. Discipline your mind to honor and glorify God, to please Him in all situations. "Think" kind and tender thoughts toward the very person with whom you are or have been irritated. Focus your thoughts on solving the current problem ( James 1:5 ; James 3:13-18 ).
Speak Biblically
( Ps. 51:1-4 ; James 5:16 ; 1 John 1:9 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) We are to speak biblically,
confess sins to the Lord and to those whom you have failed to love in a biblical manner. Don't talk about your past accomplishments, sorrows or defeats, hurts and pains but talk about the goodness of God in your life. Do not slander, gossip or use words that do not edify ( Prov. 10:18 ; Eph. 4:29 ).
Act Biblically
( Col. 3:13 ; James 1:21 ) Forgive others readily as God has forgiven you. Meditate on Scriptures related to overcoming anger and bitterness to remove the root of the foul spirit within.
( Ps. 1:1 ) Identify all danger signals, such as situations, places and personal contacts that bring temptation.
( Matt. 5:23-24 ) Make amends for wrongdoing and seek reconciliation.
( 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) We are called to be a blessing especially to those who revile us.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
4.5. Dealing with Self
4.5. Dealing with Self
Marriage Concept
( Gen. 2:7 ; Phil. 3:8 ) God formed man out of the dust of the ground. By God's breath,man received consciousness, a capacity to think, and an awareness of his environment and surroundings. Man's very being depends solely upon God. Man without God is nothing.
( Gen. 1:26-28 ) God created mankind, Adam and Eve, as one entity. Mankind is mated
to God and through the imaging process to be the revelators of God's love to the world. God blessed them, and endued them with power to be prosperous in all areas of living. All that was required was for man to voluntarily stay mated and submitted to God's authority - His word.
( Eph. 5:21 ) Both husband and wife, as separate entities, are subject to the Lord first,then to one another. By this act of obedience, recognizing God as Creator and Sustainer,they would merge into one flesh. The concept of marriage applies to the body of Christ as His bride being merged into one by obedience - individually and collectively.
Loss of Image
( Gen. 3:1-6 ) Man tested to choose to be dependent upon God or to be independent - to become their own gods. The desire that was put into them to please God, now turned to lust to please themselves. Becoming gods they looked to themselves for resources to handle life, to find within themselves wisdom, strength, and ability to understand and control life in all its manifestations. By this choice, as they changed from self-lovingothers to self-loving-self, fear became their constant companion.
Self Promotion
( Gen. 3:7-10 ) Reverential fear and awe of God and His magnificence changed to fear of punishment and a concern for the survival of the self. All man had to do was look to God,obey His word, and God would take care of everything else. Separated from God man has to look to himself for security, God no longer there to provide. Man now looks horizontally to find acceptance and approval by performing and impressing others how great he is, by controlling others, by seeking power over others: by wealth, by position. Man is always seeking to find the meaning of life within himself when the meaning of life can only be found by manifesting the glory of God in his behavior.
Remarriage
( Luke 9:23-24 ) By and through the Cross of Christ, we are enabled to resume the
original relationship with God before the fall. By the cross, we are freed from the selfloving-self and become the self-loving-others, expressing the glory of God in our behavior to others.
( Eph. 4:22-24 ) We are all conditioned by life's experiences. We are the sum of all that we encountered in life. Our culture, our environs, our circumstances in life have impacted our lives and has affected our reactions. Thus, our coping mechanisms are sensitized to cover and protect the self in competition with others. The answer to this worldly, fleshly self is to study our union with Jesus Christ, and this by the daily putting-off of the corrupted self and the putting-on of the new self by the renewing of the mind.
Battleground
( Gal. 5:16-26 ; Prov. 28:13 ; Jer. 17:9 ; Rom. 6:12-13 ) You will face constant
temptations to self centeredness that lead to thoughts, speech, and actions that are
devastating to the body of Christ and your own walk with the Lord. Those sins that
characterized your life apart from Christ must be confessed and repented of if you are to mature as a child of God.
( Eph. 1:3-14 ; Matt. 7:12 ) Man's problems is that he pays too much attention to
himself, not too little. We already know how we want others to treat us. Thus, we are
commanded to treat others the same way with the focus on the other and not self. God
has given to us all we need or want. There is nothing we should seek for ourselves but to exercise who and what we are in Christ Jesus.
Intimacy
( Rom. 8:14-17 ; 1 Cor. 1:26-31 ; Matt. 5:16 ) A proper view of self comes from an
understanding of who you are in Christ: that God is actively involved in your life, that He has chosen you to be a testimony of His power to the world, and that He gives you a purpose for living by conforming you to the image of His Son.
( Gen. 4:7 ; John 14:21 ; John 15:10-11 ; 2 Cor. 4:7-10 ; 2 Cor. 4:16-17 ; Matt.
6:33 ) Your contentment in all circumstances of life is dependent on your obedient
responses to God in your thoughts, speech, and actions. By obeying the Lord in your
daily walk, this demonstrates the Lordship of God over your life. The sense of value, of worthiness, of self-esteem comes by first seeking His Kingdom and His righteousness.
( Rom. 6:3-4 ; Rom 6:13-14 ; Col. 3:5-11 ; 1 Pet. 2:11-12 ) Envy, jealousy,
covetousness, and greed reveal a self-focus that questions God's work and provision in your life. These sins must be put-off out of your commitment to live for Jesus Christ.
( 2 Tim. 3:2-7 ; 2 Pet. 2:1-3 ) In latter days, we will be lovers of self, led on by various impulses, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Being a hearer only, you will be deluded.
Bearing His Image
( Col. 1:10 ; 1 John 3:8 ; Phil. 2:12-13 ) Daily walking in Christ, committing our will to please God, being fruitful, increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened in His power, these changes in lifestyle give evidence that we are a child of God. As such, the potential of Christ resides within you always ready to be a blessing, destroying the works of the devil, and to reign in life through righteousness.
Marriage Concept
( Gen. 2:7 ; Phil. 3:8 ) God formed man out of the dust of the ground. By God's breath,man received consciousness, a capacity to think, and an awareness of his environment and surroundings. Man's very being depends solely upon God. Man without God is nothing.
( Gen. 1:26-28 ) God created mankind, Adam and Eve, as one entity. Mankind is mated
to God and through the imaging process to be the revelators of God's love to the world. God blessed them, and endued them with power to be prosperous in all areas of living. All that was required was for man to voluntarily stay mated and submitted to God's authority - His word.
( Eph. 5:21 ) Both husband and wife, as separate entities, are subject to the Lord first,then to one another. By this act of obedience, recognizing God as Creator and Sustainer,they would merge into one flesh. The concept of marriage applies to the body of Christ as His bride being merged into one by obedience - individually and collectively.
Loss of Image
( Gen. 3:1-6 ) Man tested to choose to be dependent upon God or to be independent - to become their own gods. The desire that was put into them to please God, now turned to lust to please themselves. Becoming gods they looked to themselves for resources to handle life, to find within themselves wisdom, strength, and ability to understand and control life in all its manifestations. By this choice, as they changed from self-lovingothers to self-loving-self, fear became their constant companion.
Self Promotion
( Gen. 3:7-10 ) Reverential fear and awe of God and His magnificence changed to fear of punishment and a concern for the survival of the self. All man had to do was look to God,obey His word, and God would take care of everything else. Separated from God man has to look to himself for security, God no longer there to provide. Man now looks horizontally to find acceptance and approval by performing and impressing others how great he is, by controlling others, by seeking power over others: by wealth, by position. Man is always seeking to find the meaning of life within himself when the meaning of life can only be found by manifesting the glory of God in his behavior.
Remarriage
( Luke 9:23-24 ) By and through the Cross of Christ, we are enabled to resume the
original relationship with God before the fall. By the cross, we are freed from the selfloving-self and become the self-loving-others, expressing the glory of God in our behavior to others.
( Eph. 4:22-24 ) We are all conditioned by life's experiences. We are the sum of all that we encountered in life. Our culture, our environs, our circumstances in life have impacted our lives and has affected our reactions. Thus, our coping mechanisms are sensitized to cover and protect the self in competition with others. The answer to this worldly, fleshly self is to study our union with Jesus Christ, and this by the daily putting-off of the corrupted self and the putting-on of the new self by the renewing of the mind.
Battleground
( Gal. 5:16-26 ; Prov. 28:13 ; Jer. 17:9 ; Rom. 6:12-13 ) You will face constant
temptations to self centeredness that lead to thoughts, speech, and actions that are
devastating to the body of Christ and your own walk with the Lord. Those sins that
characterized your life apart from Christ must be confessed and repented of if you are to mature as a child of God.
( Eph. 1:3-14 ; Matt. 7:12 ) Man's problems is that he pays too much attention to
himself, not too little. We already know how we want others to treat us. Thus, we are
commanded to treat others the same way with the focus on the other and not self. God
has given to us all we need or want. There is nothing we should seek for ourselves but to exercise who and what we are in Christ Jesus.
Intimacy
( Rom. 8:14-17 ; 1 Cor. 1:26-31 ; Matt. 5:16 ) A proper view of self comes from an
understanding of who you are in Christ: that God is actively involved in your life, that He has chosen you to be a testimony of His power to the world, and that He gives you a purpose for living by conforming you to the image of His Son.
( Gen. 4:7 ; John 14:21 ; John 15:10-11 ; 2 Cor. 4:7-10 ; 2 Cor. 4:16-17 ; Matt.
6:33 ) Your contentment in all circumstances of life is dependent on your obedient
responses to God in your thoughts, speech, and actions. By obeying the Lord in your
daily walk, this demonstrates the Lordship of God over your life. The sense of value, of worthiness, of self-esteem comes by first seeking His Kingdom and His righteousness.
( Rom. 6:3-4 ; Rom 6:13-14 ; Col. 3:5-11 ; 1 Pet. 2:11-12 ) Envy, jealousy,
covetousness, and greed reveal a self-focus that questions God's work and provision in your life. These sins must be put-off out of your commitment to live for Jesus Christ.
( 2 Tim. 3:2-7 ; 2 Pet. 2:1-3 ) In latter days, we will be lovers of self, led on by various impulses, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Being a hearer only, you will be deluded.
Bearing His Image
( Col. 1:10 ; 1 John 3:8 ; Phil. 2:12-13 ) Daily walking in Christ, committing our will to please God, being fruitful, increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened in His power, these changes in lifestyle give evidence that we are a child of God. As such, the potential of Christ resides within you always ready to be a blessing, destroying the works of the devil, and to reign in life through righteousness.
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