The Epistle Of James Chapter Five
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To appreciate the need for patience in times of oppression
2) To see the value of prayer and confessing sins in times of sickness
SUMMARY
The final chapter opens with a strong condemnation toward the rich who were oppressing the poor while living in pleasure and luxury. Most likely these were rich unbelievers such as those mentioned earlier (cf.2:6-7). The Lord heard the cries of those defrauded, and judgment was to come upon the rich who had condemned and murdered the just. This passage may be an allusion to the destruction of Jerusalem foretold by Jesus in Matthew 24 and fulfilled in A.D. 70. James counsels his brethren to patiently wait for the coming of the Lord, and to establish their hearts. Appealing to the farmer, the prophets, and to Job as examples of patience, he also warns against grumbling against one another and swearing rash oaths (1-12).
The last half of the chapter provides a call to prayer and praise. The suffering are to pray, the cheerful are to sing praises, and the sick are to call for the elders of the church. The elders were to pray over the sick and anoint with oil in the name of the Lord. What is uncertain is whether the anointing was sacramental or medicinal (I think the latter, see Review Questions below). In answer to the prayer of faith, the Lord will raise the sick and also forgive sins if they had been committed. In this context James encourages Christians to confess their sins to one another and pray for one another that they may be healed. He reminds them of the value of fervent prayer by the righteous, using Elijah as an example of how God answers prayer providentially. The epistle then closes with a reminder that turning a sinner
from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins(13-20).
OUTLINE
I. TRUE RELIGION DISPLAYS PATIENCE UNDER OPPRESSION (1-12)
A. GOD'S ANGER AT RICH OPPRESSORS (1-6)
1. The rich are called to weep and howl for the miseries to come upon them
a. Their riches are corrupted
b. Their garments are moth-eaten
c. Their gold and silver are corroded
1) Which will be a witness against them
2) Which will eat their flesh like fire
d. They have heaped up treasure in the last days
2. The reasons for God's anger against the rich
a. They have defrauded the laborers who mowed their fields
1) Keeping back wages owed them
2) The cries of the reapers have been heard by the Lord of Sabaoth (Hosts)
b. They have lived in pleasure and luxury, fattening their hearts in a day of slaughter
c. They have condemned and murdered the just who does not resist them
B. A CALL FOR PATIENCE UNDER OPPRESSION (7-12)
1. Be patient until the coming of the Lord
a. Consider the patience of the farmer
b. Establish your hears, for the coming of the Lord is at hand
2. Do not grumble against one another
a. Lest you be condemned
b. The Judge is standing at the door
3. Remember the examples of suffering and patience
a. Such as the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord and are blessed for their
endurance
b. Such as the perseverance of Job, to whom the Lord proved very compassionate and
merciful at the end
4. Above all, do not swear (make rash oaths)
a. Either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath
b. Let your "Yes" mean "Yes," and your "No" mean "No"
c. Lest you fall into judgment
II. TRUE RELIGION BLESSED THROUGH PRAYER, SINGING, AND CONCERN FOR THE ERRING (13-20)
A. THE BLESSING OF PRAYER AND SONG (13-18)
1. If anyone is suffering, let him pray
2. If anyone is cheerful, let him sing psalms
3. If anyone is sick, let him call for the elders of the church
a. Let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord
b. The prayer of faith will save (heal) the sick, and the Lord will raise him up
c. If he has committed sins, he will be forgiven
d. Confess your trespasses to one another and pray for one another
1) That you may be healed
2) For the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much
a) The example of Elijah, a man with a nature like ours
b) He prayed that it would not rain, and no rain fell for three years
c) He prayed again, the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit
B. THE BLESSING OF LOVE FOR ERRING BRETHREN (19-20)
1. He who turns back one who wanders from the truth will save a soul from death
2. He who turns a sinner from the error of his way will cover a multitude of sins
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
2) Who is being condemned in verses 1-6 of this chapter? (1)
3) What sort of miseries were to come upon them? (1-3)
4) Why is God so angry at these rich? (3-6)
5) What are the Christians to do in response to such oppression? (7-12)
6) What three examples does James provide to encourage patience? (7-11)
7) What does James encourage one to do when suffering? When cheerful? (13)
8) What is one who is sick to do? (14)
9) What are they to do? (14)
10) Is "anointing with oil" sacramental or medicinal?
11) What will save (or heal) the sick? Who will raise him up? (15)
12) What if the one who is sick has committed sins? (15)
13) What are Christians to do? Why? (16)
14) What avails much? Who is a good illustration of this? (16-18)
15) What happens when one turns a sinner from the error of his way? (19-20)
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Establish Pattern of the Mature Disciple
6.5. Establish Pattern of the Mature Disciple
Perspective
( Eccl. 12:13-14 ; 1 Pet. 1:17 ; 1 John 4:11,19 ; Heb. 12:5-10 ; Phil. 2:12-13 )
Successfully facing and dealing with specific problems is only the beginning of living a godly life. Focus must remain on God's standards for continuing toward Christ-likeness. Accordingly, one must evaluate the whole of one's life constantly conforming to God's standards.
Hope
( Isa. 40:8 ; Acts 10:34-35 ; John 14:21 ; John 15:10-11 ; 1 John 3:22 ) God's
standards are always consistent and are never subject to the whim of the moment. They
are the same for all individuals, in all cultures, and at all age levels, regardless of personality or background. Keeping God's commandments, having reverence and awe of
God, is the key to fruitfulness.
( Ps. 145:17 ; Jer. 29:11-17 ; Deut. 11:8-9 ; James 1:22-25 ) God's plan for you
are for your benefit and have as their goal your maturity in Christ. If you keep God's commandments, He will bless you; otherwise, you will be subject to discipline.
( Matt. 11:28-30 ; Josh. 1:8-9 ; Ps. 103:1-5 ; Isa. 40:29-31 ; Eph. 1:13-14 ; Phil.
2:12-13 ) God's standards are not burdensome for He will strengthen, uphold, and keep
you from stumbling as you walk in His ways, cooperating with the changes He is
accomplishing in your life.
Change
( Rom. 13:1-3 ; Rom. 13:12-14 ; Eph. 6:10-18 ) Put-off deeds of darkness, put-on
the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for fleshly lusts. Put on the full armor of God to withstand the schemes of the devil.
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; Matt. 5:10-12 ; 1 Pet. 4:12-19 ; 1 Pet. 3:13-17 ) Do not be surprised
at trials, even if they seem fiery. Instead, rejoice because God uses them to develop
Christlike maturity in your life. Be prepared to be reviled and to suffer persecution. You will be blessed when you do.
( Gal. 5:22-23 ; Eph. 1:4 ; Eph. 4:1,17 ; Eph. 6:9 ; Col. 3:12-24 ; 1 Tim. 4:7-8 ; 2
Pet. 1:2-10 ) Establish and maintain biblical standards that will encourage you and your children toward godliness. Identify godly traits that need to be developed along with corresponding biblical responsibilities and activities which will demonstrate Christlikeness.
Perspective
( Eccl. 12:13-14 ; 1 Pet. 1:17 ; 1 John 4:11,19 ; Heb. 12:5-10 ; Phil. 2:12-13 )
Successfully facing and dealing with specific problems is only the beginning of living a godly life. Focus must remain on God's standards for continuing toward Christ-likeness. Accordingly, one must evaluate the whole of one's life constantly conforming to God's standards.
Hope
( Isa. 40:8 ; Acts 10:34-35 ; John 14:21 ; John 15:10-11 ; 1 John 3:22 ) God's
standards are always consistent and are never subject to the whim of the moment. They
are the same for all individuals, in all cultures, and at all age levels, regardless of personality or background. Keeping God's commandments, having reverence and awe of
God, is the key to fruitfulness.
( Ps. 145:17 ; Jer. 29:11-17 ; Deut. 11:8-9 ; James 1:22-25 ) God's plan for you
are for your benefit and have as their goal your maturity in Christ. If you keep God's commandments, He will bless you; otherwise, you will be subject to discipline.
( Matt. 11:28-30 ; Josh. 1:8-9 ; Ps. 103:1-5 ; Isa. 40:29-31 ; Eph. 1:13-14 ; Phil.
2:12-13 ) God's standards are not burdensome for He will strengthen, uphold, and keep
you from stumbling as you walk in His ways, cooperating with the changes He is
accomplishing in your life.
Change
( Rom. 13:1-3 ; Rom. 13:12-14 ; Eph. 6:10-18 ) Put-off deeds of darkness, put-on
the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for fleshly lusts. Put on the full armor of God to withstand the schemes of the devil.
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; Matt. 5:10-12 ; 1 Pet. 4:12-19 ; 1 Pet. 3:13-17 ) Do not be surprised
at trials, even if they seem fiery. Instead, rejoice because God uses them to develop
Christlike maturity in your life. Be prepared to be reviled and to suffer persecution. You will be blessed when you do.
( Gal. 5:22-23 ; Eph. 1:4 ; Eph. 4:1,17 ; Eph. 6:9 ; Col. 3:12-24 ; 1 Tim. 4:7-8 ; 2
Pet. 1:2-10 ) Establish and maintain biblical standards that will encourage you and your children toward godliness. Identify godly traits that need to be developed along with corresponding biblical responsibilities and activities which will demonstrate Christlikeness.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
The Epistle Of James- Chapter Four Study Guide
The Epistle Of James- Chapter Four
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To gain insight into the source of wars and fighting, even among brethren
2) To see the importance and means of befriending God, of not speaking evil of brethren, and planning for the future with the Lord's will in mind
SUMMARY
James asks his readers to consider the source of wars and fights among themselves. He identifies the problem as their own desires for pleasure which war within themselves. Perhaps exaggerating for the sake of emphasis, he describes their lust and coveting (even murder!) for things they do not have and cannot obtain. It renders their prayers fruitless, for they have selfish motives in mind. Sounding like an Old Testament prophet, James charges them with adultery for trying to befriend the world. Becoming a friend of the world leads to enmity with God, who jealously desires us. But if they are willing to humble
themselves, God is willing to show more grace (1-6).
James therefore counsels them to draw near to God in humble submission, with clean hands, purity of heart, and true contrition. He warns against speaking evil of brethren and judging one another, lest they become judges and not doers of the law. The chapter ends with a call to make plans with the Lord's will in mind, for we have no idea what the morrow holds and life is short. Otherwise we boast in our arrogance and sin when we fail to do what we know is good (7-17).
OUTLINE
I. TRUE RELIGION DOES NOT BEFRIEND THE WORLD (1-6)
A. THE SOURCE OF WARS AND FIGHTS (1-3)
1. From within, from desires that war in one's members
2. Such as lust (envy), murder (hate?), coveting, which do not give what one seeks
3. Leading to unanswered prayers, due to selfishness
B. FRIENDSHIP WITH THE WORLD IS ENMITY WITH GOD (4-6)
1. Whoever wants to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God
2. Even as the Scripture warns, and not in vain
3. While God resists the proud, He is willing to give grace to the humble
II. TRUE RELIGION DRAWS NEAR TO GOD (7-17)
A. BY SUBMITTING TO GOD'S AUTHORITY (7-12)
1. Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee
2. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you
a. Cleanse your hands, sinners
b. Purify your hearts, double-minded
c. Mourn and weep for your sins
d. Humble yourself before God, and He will lift you up
3. Let God be the Lawgiver and Judge
a. Do not speak evil of one another and judge one another
1) Otherwise you speak evil of the law and judge the law
2) Otherwise you are not a doer of the law, but a judge
b. When there is really only one Lawgiver who is able to save and destroy
B. BY SUBMITTING TO GOD'S WILL (13-17)
1. We should be careful in making plans for the future
a. We do not know what will happen tomorrow
b. Life is but a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes
2. Therefore we should acknowledge "If the Lord wills" in our plans
a. Otherwise we boast in arrogance, which is evil
b. For one to know to do good and not do it, that is sin
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
2) Where do wars and fights find their origin? (1-2)
3) Why do some not receive what they ask for? (3)
4) What does James call those who would be a friend of the world? (4)
5) What possible translations for the Scripture quoted in verse 5?
6) Whom does God resist? To whom does He give more grace? (6)
7) What counsel does James give to those tempted by the world? (7-10)
8) Why should one not speak evil of a brother? (11)
9) What other reasons does James give for not judging one another? (12)
10) Why should we be careful about the plans we make? (13-14)
11) With what qualification can one make plans for the future? (15)
12) Of what is one guilty when plans are made without considering the Lord's will?
(16)
13) Of what is one guilty if they know what is good, but fail to do it? (17)
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To gain insight into the source of wars and fighting, even among brethren
2) To see the importance and means of befriending God, of not speaking evil of brethren, and planning for the future with the Lord's will in mind
SUMMARY
James asks his readers to consider the source of wars and fights among themselves. He identifies the problem as their own desires for pleasure which war within themselves. Perhaps exaggerating for the sake of emphasis, he describes their lust and coveting (even murder!) for things they do not have and cannot obtain. It renders their prayers fruitless, for they have selfish motives in mind. Sounding like an Old Testament prophet, James charges them with adultery for trying to befriend the world. Becoming a friend of the world leads to enmity with God, who jealously desires us. But if they are willing to humble
themselves, God is willing to show more grace (1-6).
James therefore counsels them to draw near to God in humble submission, with clean hands, purity of heart, and true contrition. He warns against speaking evil of brethren and judging one another, lest they become judges and not doers of the law. The chapter ends with a call to make plans with the Lord's will in mind, for we have no idea what the morrow holds and life is short. Otherwise we boast in our arrogance and sin when we fail to do what we know is good (7-17).
OUTLINE
I. TRUE RELIGION DOES NOT BEFRIEND THE WORLD (1-6)
A. THE SOURCE OF WARS AND FIGHTS (1-3)
1. From within, from desires that war in one's members
2. Such as lust (envy), murder (hate?), coveting, which do not give what one seeks
3. Leading to unanswered prayers, due to selfishness
B. FRIENDSHIP WITH THE WORLD IS ENMITY WITH GOD (4-6)
1. Whoever wants to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God
2. Even as the Scripture warns, and not in vain
3. While God resists the proud, He is willing to give grace to the humble
II. TRUE RELIGION DRAWS NEAR TO GOD (7-17)
A. BY SUBMITTING TO GOD'S AUTHORITY (7-12)
1. Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee
2. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you
a. Cleanse your hands, sinners
b. Purify your hearts, double-minded
c. Mourn and weep for your sins
d. Humble yourself before God, and He will lift you up
3. Let God be the Lawgiver and Judge
a. Do not speak evil of one another and judge one another
1) Otherwise you speak evil of the law and judge the law
2) Otherwise you are not a doer of the law, but a judge
b. When there is really only one Lawgiver who is able to save and destroy
B. BY SUBMITTING TO GOD'S WILL (13-17)
1. We should be careful in making plans for the future
a. We do not know what will happen tomorrow
b. Life is but a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes
2. Therefore we should acknowledge "If the Lord wills" in our plans
a. Otherwise we boast in arrogance, which is evil
b. For one to know to do good and not do it, that is sin
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
2) Where do wars and fights find their origin? (1-2)
3) Why do some not receive what they ask for? (3)
4) What does James call those who would be a friend of the world? (4)
5) What possible translations for the Scripture quoted in verse 5?
6) Whom does God resist? To whom does He give more grace? (6)
7) What counsel does James give to those tempted by the world? (7-10)
8) Why should one not speak evil of a brother? (11)
9) What other reasons does James give for not judging one another? (12)
10) Why should we be careful about the plans we make? (13-14)
11) With what qualification can one make plans for the future? (15)
12) Of what is one guilty when plans are made without considering the Lord's will?
(16)
13) Of what is one guilty if they know what is good, but fail to do it? (17)
Friday, July 23, 2010
Develop the Practice of Righteousness
6.4. Develop the Practice of Righteousness
Perspective
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; Rom. 12:1-2 ; Matt. 10:16-28 ; 1 Pet. 3:13-17 ) Do not be surprised
at trials, even if they seem fiery. Rejoice in them because God uses them to reveal the spirit that is in you, and develop Christlike maturity. Be prepared to be reviled. If you should endure suffering for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed of the Lord. Renewing the mind is a constant process to free us from our own corruption of lusts and appetites; and to defend and protect ourselves from the fashions and customs of the world.
Hope
( Eph. 5:15-16 ; 1 Tim. 4:7-11 ; Heb. 5:14 ; Gal. 5:22-23 ; Heb. 13:20-21 ) You
must faithfully practice your daily responsibilities and discipline yourself toward godliness. As you continue to be a doer of the word, your senses will be trained to discern good and evil. Your growth is a sovereign work of God that is divinely linked to your living in a biblical manner.
(Prov. 3:5-10 ; Ps. 55:22 ; Ps. 94:17-19 ; Jer. 29:11 ; Rom. 8:28-29) God has
promised to provide all the necessities of life as you seek to please Him. He is always available to help you and He is firmly in control of every aspect of your life. Living in a biblical manner, the believer is assured that God is arranging and re-arranging 'all things' for his good on a daily basis. Thus, hope is really faith extended into the future, living the divine life in the present.
( Matt. 6:25,34 ; Luke 12:22-34 ; Matt. 6:33 ; Heb. 5:14 ; James 1:22-25 ) Put-off
self-centered concern about the future and put-on doing the Word. As you dwell on the
things of God, He will protect and provide for you in all areas of your life.
God made man a spiritual being. As such, man is not to be preoccupied with making it on his own, taking care of oneself in this world, and fighting and struggling to make it through life. As a citizen of heaven, he works in partnership with God. He trusts and acknowledges God while doing all he can: plows and works, not looking back; and while working, trust the results to God. God says he will see to it that such a trusting person will always have the necessities of life.
Change
( John 3:30 ; John 12:24-26 ; Matt. 20:26-28 ; Rom. 15:1-3 ; Col. 3:23-24 ) Stop
living to please self in daily situations, responsibilities and relationships. Regard others as more important than yourself and be a servant to God and others. The Christian believer who truly lives and witnesses for Christ gives himself up to Christ. In Christ, as a bondslave, he ministers to the needs of others.
( Prov. 9:6 ; Prov. 14:16 ; Gal. 5:16-21 ; James 1:19 ; John 15:5 ; James 1:22-25
; James 4:17 ) List the circumstances or relationships in which you are (or have been) tempted to become angry or bitter. Develop a biblical plan for overcoming anger and bitterness in these situations. Formulate a contingency plan for dealing with anger and bitterness that may arise suddenly. What you comprehend, you will be conformed to, and this is what you will communicate.
( Prov. 10:12 ; 1 Cor. 13:4-8 ; 1 Pet. 1:22 ; Eph. 4:32 ; 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) Practice
biblical love by forgiving others just as God has forgiven you. Do kind and tenderhearted deeds to the very individuals with whom you become irritated. Forbearance is giving what a person needs, not what he deserves.
Perspective
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; Rom. 12:1-2 ; Matt. 10:16-28 ; 1 Pet. 3:13-17 ) Do not be surprised
at trials, even if they seem fiery. Rejoice in them because God uses them to reveal the spirit that is in you, and develop Christlike maturity. Be prepared to be reviled. If you should endure suffering for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed of the Lord. Renewing the mind is a constant process to free us from our own corruption of lusts and appetites; and to defend and protect ourselves from the fashions and customs of the world.
Hope
( Eph. 5:15-16 ; 1 Tim. 4:7-11 ; Heb. 5:14 ; Gal. 5:22-23 ; Heb. 13:20-21 ) You
must faithfully practice your daily responsibilities and discipline yourself toward godliness. As you continue to be a doer of the word, your senses will be trained to discern good and evil. Your growth is a sovereign work of God that is divinely linked to your living in a biblical manner.
(Prov. 3:5-10 ; Ps. 55:22 ; Ps. 94:17-19 ; Jer. 29:11 ; Rom. 8:28-29) God has
promised to provide all the necessities of life as you seek to please Him. He is always available to help you and He is firmly in control of every aspect of your life. Living in a biblical manner, the believer is assured that God is arranging and re-arranging 'all things' for his good on a daily basis. Thus, hope is really faith extended into the future, living the divine life in the present.
( Matt. 6:25,34 ; Luke 12:22-34 ; Matt. 6:33 ; Heb. 5:14 ; James 1:22-25 ) Put-off
self-centered concern about the future and put-on doing the Word. As you dwell on the
things of God, He will protect and provide for you in all areas of your life.
God made man a spiritual being. As such, man is not to be preoccupied with making it on his own, taking care of oneself in this world, and fighting and struggling to make it through life. As a citizen of heaven, he works in partnership with God. He trusts and acknowledges God while doing all he can: plows and works, not looking back; and while working, trust the results to God. God says he will see to it that such a trusting person will always have the necessities of life.
Change
( John 3:30 ; John 12:24-26 ; Matt. 20:26-28 ; Rom. 15:1-3 ; Col. 3:23-24 ) Stop
living to please self in daily situations, responsibilities and relationships. Regard others as more important than yourself and be a servant to God and others. The Christian believer who truly lives and witnesses for Christ gives himself up to Christ. In Christ, as a bondslave, he ministers to the needs of others.
( Prov. 9:6 ; Prov. 14:16 ; Gal. 5:16-21 ; James 1:19 ; John 15:5 ; James 1:22-25
; James 4:17 ) List the circumstances or relationships in which you are (or have been) tempted to become angry or bitter. Develop a biblical plan for overcoming anger and bitterness in these situations. Formulate a contingency plan for dealing with anger and bitterness that may arise suddenly. What you comprehend, you will be conformed to, and this is what you will communicate.
( Prov. 10:12 ; 1 Cor. 13:4-8 ; 1 Pet. 1:22 ; Eph. 4:32 ; 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) Practice
biblical love by forgiving others just as God has forgiven you. Do kind and tenderhearted deeds to the very individuals with whom you become irritated. Forbearance is giving what a person needs, not what he deserves.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Three Kinds Of Faith
Three Kinds Of Faith
James 2:14-26
INTRODUCTION
1. Faith is certainly an essential element in the Christian life...
a. Without faith, it is impossible to please God - He 11:6
b. The Christian is saved by faith - Ep 2:8
c. The Christian is to walk (live) by faith - 2 Co 5:7
d. Whatever we do apart from faith is described as sin - Ro 14:23
2. It is important to realize, however, that there are different kinds of faith, but only one that is truly “saving faith”
3. In Ja 2:14-26, we find James discussing different kinds of faith, with an emphasis upon that faith which works to the saving of the soul
[Beginning with vs. 14-17, we notice the first kind of faith. We might call this kind of faith...]
I. DEAD FAITH (14-17)
A. THIS KIND OF FAITH...
1. Substitutes words for deeds (consider James’ example)
a. People with this kind of faith:
1) Know the correct vocabulary for prayer and sound doctrine
2) Can even quote the right verses from the Bible
b. But their “walk” does not measure up to their “talk”!
2. Is only an intellectual faith
a. In one’s mind, he or she knows the doctrine of salvation
b. But they have never really submitted themselves to God and trusted in Jesus for
salvation
c. They know the right “words”, but they do not back up their words with their “works”!
B. CAN THIS KIND OF FAITH SAVE...?
1. No! Three times in this passage, James emphasizes that “faith without works is dead” - Ja 2:17,20,26
2. Any declaration of faith that does not result in a changed life and good works is a false declaration: A dead faith!
3. Dead faith is counterfeit faith and lulls the person into a false confidence of eternal life
C. DO WE HAVE THIS KIND OF FAITH...?
1. We do, if our walk does not measure up to our talk!
2. We do, if our works do not measure up to our words!
[We need to beware of mere intellectual faith. As Warren Wiersbe has said, “No man can come to Christ by faith and remain the same, anymore than he came into contact with a 220-volt wire and remain the same.” (compare this to 1 Jn 5:12) The next kind of faith discussed by James is...]
II. DEMONIC FAITH (18,19)
A. EVEN DEMONS HAVE A KIND OF FAITH...!
1. They believe in God (no atheists or agnostics here!)
2. They even believe in the deity of Christ - cf. Mk 3:11-12
3. They also believe in the existence of a place of condemnation - cf. Lk 8:31
4. And they believe Jesus will be the Judge! - Mt 8:28-29
B. WHAT KIND OF FAITH DO DEMONS HAVE...?
1. We saw that the man with “dead faith” was “touched only in his intellect”
2. The demons are “touched also in their emotions” (note that they “believe and tremble”)
3. This is one step above a “dead faith” - it involves both intellect and emotions
C. CAN THIS KIND OF FAITH SAVE...?
1. No! A person can be enlightened in his mind and even stirred in his heart and still be lost forever!
2. True saving faith involves something more, something that can be seen and recognized: a changed life! (cf. Ja 2:18)
3. Being a Christian involves trusting Christ and living for Christ!
a. You first receive the life...
b. Then you reveal the life!
D. DO WE HAVE THIS KIND OF FAITH...?
1. We do, if we just believe the right things and feel the right things
2. We do, if our service to God does not go beyond...
a. Intellectually adhering to the right doctrines
b. Emotional experiences while attending services
[Thus, James has introduced us to two kinds of faith that can never save: dead faith (involving the intellect alone), and demonic faith (involving the intellect and the emotions, but stopping there). He closes this section by describing in vs. 20-26 the only kind of faith that can save...]
III.DYNAMIC FAITH (20-26)
A. WHAT KIND OF FAITH IS THIS...?
1. We know from other passages that such faith is based upon the Word of God - Ro 10:17
2. Dynamic faith involves the whole man
a. Dead faith touches only the intellect
b. Demonic faith involves both the intellect and the emotions
c. Dynamic faith involves the intellect, the emotions, and the will!
1) The mind understands the truth
2) The heart desires and rejoices in the truth
3) The will acts upon the truth
3. True, saving faith, then, leads to action
a. It is not intellectual contemplation
b. It is not emotionalism
c. It is that which leads to obedience in doing good works
B. TO ILLUSTRATE, JAMES REFERS TO ABRAHAM AND RAHAB...
1. You could not find two more different persons!
a. Abraham was the father of the Jews; Rahab was a Gentile!
b. Abraham was a godly man; Rahab had been a sinful woman, a harlot!
c. Abraham was the friend of God; Rahab had belonged to the enemies of God!
2. What did they have in common? Both exercised saving faith in God!
a. Abraham demonstrated his saving faith by his works - Ja 2:20-24
b. Rahab demonstrated her saving faith by her works - Ja 2:25-26
3. We learn from this passage that:
a. Faith without works is a dead faith - Ja 2:20,26
b. That “faith only” (the only time this phrase is found in the Scriptures) cannot justify one- Ja 2:24
c. That perfect faith necessitates works - Ja 2:22
CONCLUSION
1. It is important that each professing Christian examine his or her own heart and life, and make sure that they possess true saving faith, which is a dynamic faith
2. Satan is the great deceiver; one of his devices is imitation...
a. If he can convince a person that counterfeit faith is true faith...
b. ...then he has that person in his power!
3. Here are some questions we can ask ourselves as we examine our faith:
* Was there a time when I honestly realized I was a sinner and admitted this to myself and to God?
* Was there a time when my heart stirred me to flee from the wrath to come? Have I
ever been seriously worked up over my sins?
* Do I truly understand the gospel, that Christ died for my sins and then rose again?
Do I understand and confess that I cannot save myself?
* Did I sincerely repent of my sins, making the decision to turn from them? Do I now
hate sin and Fear God? Or do I secretly love sin and want to enjoy it?
* Have I trusted Christ and Him alone for my salvation by responding to the
commands He has given?
* Have I confessed my faith in Christ and then been baptized for the remission of my
sins as He and His apostles commanded?
* Has there been a change in my life? Do I maintain good works, or are my good
works occasional and weak?
* Do I seek to grow in the things of the Lord? Can others tell that I have been with
Jesus?
* Do I have a desire to share Christ with others? Or am I ashamed of Him?
* Do I enjoy the fellowship of God’s people? Is worship a delight to me?
* Am I ready for the Lord’s return? Or will I be ashamed when He comes for me?
4. To be sure, not every Christian has the same degree of faith; those who have had more time to grow should be stronger in faith
5. But for the most part, the above spiritual inventory can assist a person in determining his or her true standing before God
May our prayer be similar to that of the Psalmist’s:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And
see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.”
(Psa 139:23-24)
Note: Much of the material for this outline was adapted heavily from The Bible Exposition Commentary, Volume 2, by Warren W. Wiersbe, pages 353-357.
James 2:14-26
INTRODUCTION
1. Faith is certainly an essential element in the Christian life...
a. Without faith, it is impossible to please God - He 11:6
b. The Christian is saved by faith - Ep 2:8
c. The Christian is to walk (live) by faith - 2 Co 5:7
d. Whatever we do apart from faith is described as sin - Ro 14:23
2. It is important to realize, however, that there are different kinds of faith, but only one that is truly “saving faith”
3. In Ja 2:14-26, we find James discussing different kinds of faith, with an emphasis upon that faith which works to the saving of the soul
[Beginning with vs. 14-17, we notice the first kind of faith. We might call this kind of faith...]
I. DEAD FAITH (14-17)
A. THIS KIND OF FAITH...
1. Substitutes words for deeds (consider James’ example)
a. People with this kind of faith:
1) Know the correct vocabulary for prayer and sound doctrine
2) Can even quote the right verses from the Bible
b. But their “walk” does not measure up to their “talk”!
2. Is only an intellectual faith
a. In one’s mind, he or she knows the doctrine of salvation
b. But they have never really submitted themselves to God and trusted in Jesus for
salvation
c. They know the right “words”, but they do not back up their words with their “works”!
B. CAN THIS KIND OF FAITH SAVE...?
1. No! Three times in this passage, James emphasizes that “faith without works is dead” - Ja 2:17,20,26
2. Any declaration of faith that does not result in a changed life and good works is a false declaration: A dead faith!
3. Dead faith is counterfeit faith and lulls the person into a false confidence of eternal life
C. DO WE HAVE THIS KIND OF FAITH...?
1. We do, if our walk does not measure up to our talk!
2. We do, if our works do not measure up to our words!
[We need to beware of mere intellectual faith. As Warren Wiersbe has said, “No man can come to Christ by faith and remain the same, anymore than he came into contact with a 220-volt wire and remain the same.” (compare this to 1 Jn 5:12) The next kind of faith discussed by James is...]
II. DEMONIC FAITH (18,19)
A. EVEN DEMONS HAVE A KIND OF FAITH...!
1. They believe in God (no atheists or agnostics here!)
2. They even believe in the deity of Christ - cf. Mk 3:11-12
3. They also believe in the existence of a place of condemnation - cf. Lk 8:31
4. And they believe Jesus will be the Judge! - Mt 8:28-29
B. WHAT KIND OF FAITH DO DEMONS HAVE...?
1. We saw that the man with “dead faith” was “touched only in his intellect”
2. The demons are “touched also in their emotions” (note that they “believe and tremble”)
3. This is one step above a “dead faith” - it involves both intellect and emotions
C. CAN THIS KIND OF FAITH SAVE...?
1. No! A person can be enlightened in his mind and even stirred in his heart and still be lost forever!
2. True saving faith involves something more, something that can be seen and recognized: a changed life! (cf. Ja 2:18)
3. Being a Christian involves trusting Christ and living for Christ!
a. You first receive the life...
b. Then you reveal the life!
D. DO WE HAVE THIS KIND OF FAITH...?
1. We do, if we just believe the right things and feel the right things
2. We do, if our service to God does not go beyond...
a. Intellectually adhering to the right doctrines
b. Emotional experiences while attending services
[Thus, James has introduced us to two kinds of faith that can never save: dead faith (involving the intellect alone), and demonic faith (involving the intellect and the emotions, but stopping there). He closes this section by describing in vs. 20-26 the only kind of faith that can save...]
III.DYNAMIC FAITH (20-26)
A. WHAT KIND OF FAITH IS THIS...?
1. We know from other passages that such faith is based upon the Word of God - Ro 10:17
2. Dynamic faith involves the whole man
a. Dead faith touches only the intellect
b. Demonic faith involves both the intellect and the emotions
c. Dynamic faith involves the intellect, the emotions, and the will!
1) The mind understands the truth
2) The heart desires and rejoices in the truth
3) The will acts upon the truth
3. True, saving faith, then, leads to action
a. It is not intellectual contemplation
b. It is not emotionalism
c. It is that which leads to obedience in doing good works
B. TO ILLUSTRATE, JAMES REFERS TO ABRAHAM AND RAHAB...
1. You could not find two more different persons!
a. Abraham was the father of the Jews; Rahab was a Gentile!
b. Abraham was a godly man; Rahab had been a sinful woman, a harlot!
c. Abraham was the friend of God; Rahab had belonged to the enemies of God!
2. What did they have in common? Both exercised saving faith in God!
a. Abraham demonstrated his saving faith by his works - Ja 2:20-24
b. Rahab demonstrated her saving faith by her works - Ja 2:25-26
3. We learn from this passage that:
a. Faith without works is a dead faith - Ja 2:20,26
b. That “faith only” (the only time this phrase is found in the Scriptures) cannot justify one- Ja 2:24
c. That perfect faith necessitates works - Ja 2:22
CONCLUSION
1. It is important that each professing Christian examine his or her own heart and life, and make sure that they possess true saving faith, which is a dynamic faith
2. Satan is the great deceiver; one of his devices is imitation...
a. If he can convince a person that counterfeit faith is true faith...
b. ...then he has that person in his power!
3. Here are some questions we can ask ourselves as we examine our faith:
* Was there a time when I honestly realized I was a sinner and admitted this to myself and to God?
* Was there a time when my heart stirred me to flee from the wrath to come? Have I
ever been seriously worked up over my sins?
* Do I truly understand the gospel, that Christ died for my sins and then rose again?
Do I understand and confess that I cannot save myself?
* Did I sincerely repent of my sins, making the decision to turn from them? Do I now
hate sin and Fear God? Or do I secretly love sin and want to enjoy it?
* Have I trusted Christ and Him alone for my salvation by responding to the
commands He has given?
* Have I confessed my faith in Christ and then been baptized for the remission of my
sins as He and His apostles commanded?
* Has there been a change in my life? Do I maintain good works, or are my good
works occasional and weak?
* Do I seek to grow in the things of the Lord? Can others tell that I have been with
Jesus?
* Do I have a desire to share Christ with others? Or am I ashamed of Him?
* Do I enjoy the fellowship of God’s people? Is worship a delight to me?
* Am I ready for the Lord’s return? Or will I be ashamed when He comes for me?
4. To be sure, not every Christian has the same degree of faith; those who have had more time to grow should be stronger in faith
5. But for the most part, the above spiritual inventory can assist a person in determining his or her true standing before God
May our prayer be similar to that of the Psalmist’s:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And
see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.”
(Psa 139:23-24)
Note: Much of the material for this outline was adapted heavily from The Bible Exposition Commentary, Volume 2, by Warren W. Wiersbe, pages 353-357.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Develop the Practice of Righteousness
6.4. Develop the Practice of Righteousness
Perspective
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; Rom. 12:1-2 ; Matt. 10:16-28 ; 1 Pet. 3:13-17 ) Do not be surprised
at trials, even if they seem fiery. Rejoice in them because God uses them to reveal the spirit that is in you, and develop Christlike maturity. Be prepared to be reviled. If you should endure suffering for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed of the Lord. Renewing the mind is a constant process to free us from our own corruption of lusts and appetites; and to defend and protect ourselves from the fashions and customs of the world.
Hope
( Eph. 5:15-16 ; 1 Tim. 4:7-11 ; Heb. 5:14 ; Gal. 5:22-23 ; Heb. 13:20-21 ) You
must faithfully practice your daily responsibilities and discipline yourself toward godliness. As you continue to be a doer of the word, your senses will be trained to discern good and evil. Your growth is a sovereign work of God that is divinely linked to your living in a biblical manner.
Prov. 3:5-10 ; Ps. 55:22 ; Ps. 94:17-19 ; Jer. 29:11 ; Rom. 8:28-29 God has
promised to provide all the necessities of life as you seek to please Him. He is always available to help you and He is firmly in control of every aspect of your life. Living in a biblical manner, the believer is assured that God is arranging and re-arranging 'all things' for his good on a daily basis. Thus, hope is really faith extended into the future, living the divine life in the present.
( Matt. 6:25,34 ; Luke 12:22-34 ; Matt. 6:33 ; Heb. 5:14 ; James 1:22-25 ) Put-off
self-centered concern about the future and put-on doing the Word. As you dwell on the
things of God, He will protect and provide for you in all areas of your life.
God made man a spiritual being. As such, man is not to be preoccupied with making it on his own, taking care of oneself in this world, and fighting and struggling to make it through life. As a citizen of heaven, he works in partnership with God. He trusts and acknowledges God while doing all he can: plows and works, not looking back; and while working, trust the results to God. God says he will see to it that such a trusting person will always have the necessities of life.
Change
( John 3:30 ; John 12:24-26 ; Matt. 20:26-28 ; Rom. 15:1-3 ; Col. 3:23-24 ) Stop
living to please self in daily situations, responsibilities and relationships. Regard others as more important than yourself and be a servant to God and others. The Christian believer who truly lives and witnesses for Christ gives himself up to Christ. In Christ, as a bondslave, he ministers to the needs of others.
( Prov. 9:6 ; Prov. 14:16 ; Gal. 5:16-21 ; James 1:19 ; John 15:5 ; James 1:22-25
; James 4:17 ) List the circumstances or relationships in which you are (or have been)tempted to become angry or bitter. Develop a biblical plan for overcoming anger and bitterness in these situations. Formulate a contingency plan for dealing with anger and bitterness that may arise suddenly. What you comprehend, you will be conformed to, and this is what you will communicate.
( Prov. 10:12 ; 1 Cor. 13:4-8 ; 1 Pet. 1:22 ; Eph. 4:32 ; 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) Practice
biblical love by forgiving others just as God has forgiven you. Do kind and tenderhearted deeds to the very individuals with whom you become irritated. Forbearance is giving what a person needs, not what he deserves.
Perspective
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; Rom. 12:1-2 ; Matt. 10:16-28 ; 1 Pet. 3:13-17 ) Do not be surprised
at trials, even if they seem fiery. Rejoice in them because God uses them to reveal the spirit that is in you, and develop Christlike maturity. Be prepared to be reviled. If you should endure suffering for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed of the Lord. Renewing the mind is a constant process to free us from our own corruption of lusts and appetites; and to defend and protect ourselves from the fashions and customs of the world.
Hope
( Eph. 5:15-16 ; 1 Tim. 4:7-11 ; Heb. 5:14 ; Gal. 5:22-23 ; Heb. 13:20-21 ) You
must faithfully practice your daily responsibilities and discipline yourself toward godliness. As you continue to be a doer of the word, your senses will be trained to discern good and evil. Your growth is a sovereign work of God that is divinely linked to your living in a biblical manner.
Prov. 3:5-10 ; Ps. 55:22 ; Ps. 94:17-19 ; Jer. 29:11 ; Rom. 8:28-29 God has
promised to provide all the necessities of life as you seek to please Him. He is always available to help you and He is firmly in control of every aspect of your life. Living in a biblical manner, the believer is assured that God is arranging and re-arranging 'all things' for his good on a daily basis. Thus, hope is really faith extended into the future, living the divine life in the present.
( Matt. 6:25,34 ; Luke 12:22-34 ; Matt. 6:33 ; Heb. 5:14 ; James 1:22-25 ) Put-off
self-centered concern about the future and put-on doing the Word. As you dwell on the
things of God, He will protect and provide for you in all areas of your life.
God made man a spiritual being. As such, man is not to be preoccupied with making it on his own, taking care of oneself in this world, and fighting and struggling to make it through life. As a citizen of heaven, he works in partnership with God. He trusts and acknowledges God while doing all he can: plows and works, not looking back; and while working, trust the results to God. God says he will see to it that such a trusting person will always have the necessities of life.
Change
( John 3:30 ; John 12:24-26 ; Matt. 20:26-28 ; Rom. 15:1-3 ; Col. 3:23-24 ) Stop
living to please self in daily situations, responsibilities and relationships. Regard others as more important than yourself and be a servant to God and others. The Christian believer who truly lives and witnesses for Christ gives himself up to Christ. In Christ, as a bondslave, he ministers to the needs of others.
( Prov. 9:6 ; Prov. 14:16 ; Gal. 5:16-21 ; James 1:19 ; John 15:5 ; James 1:22-25
; James 4:17 ) List the circumstances or relationships in which you are (or have been)tempted to become angry or bitter. Develop a biblical plan for overcoming anger and bitterness in these situations. Formulate a contingency plan for dealing with anger and bitterness that may arise suddenly. What you comprehend, you will be conformed to, and this is what you will communicate.
( Prov. 10:12 ; 1 Cor. 13:4-8 ; 1 Pet. 1:22 ; Eph. 4:32 ; 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) Practice
biblical love by forgiving others just as God has forgiven you. Do kind and tenderhearted deeds to the very individuals with whom you become irritated. Forbearance is giving what a person needs, not what he deserves.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Biblical discipleship 3
6.3. Establish Biblical Structure for Change
Perspective
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; 2 Tim. 3:16-17 ; James 1:21-25 ; 2 Pet. 1:2-4 ) Effective and lasting
biblical change is a continuing process. You are to obey the commands and guidelines in God's word for every area of your life (your thoughts, words and actions). As you stop(put-off) the old continuing pattern of sin and begin (put-on) the new practice of righteousness and holiness, you are renewed in the spirit of your mind.
Being justified, we are no longer defeated by trials and sufferings. To the contrary, by God's grace, we use problems as opportunities to grow in Christ. Working through pressure, oppression, afflictions, and distress, we develop endurance, fortitude, steadfastness, constancy, perseverance. Thus, patience stirs experience and this develops character, integrity, strength. Also experience stirs up hope. By enduring trials, we experience the presence and strength of God. When a justified man becomes stronger in character, he draws closer to God. The closer he draws to God, the more he hopes for the glory of God.
Hope
( John 15:10-11 ; John 16:33 ; Matt. 6:33 ; 1 John 2:3-4 ; 1 John 3:22 ) You are
to walk in a manner worthy of God and to please Him in every area of your life. As you obediently respond to God's love, you become mature in the Lord and are blessed with peace and joy regardless of your feelings, other people or circumstances of life. The believer's hope, peace and joy is based upon the presence of God's Spirit who dwells within the believer. These virtues are activated when one biblically responds to life.
( 1 Cor. 6:19-20 ; 1 Pet. 1:17-19 ; Luke 16:10-13 ; John 16:17 ; 1 John 2:20,27 )
You were purchased with the precious blood of Jesus, you wholly belong to Him. You are God's possession and a steward (managing servant) of all that the Lord has provided for you. The anointing of Christ is with you. God's wisdom, strength and ability are within you to exercise your particular talent and gifts to become a blessing to those about you. Christ in you, the hope of glory, the anointing of God is upon your flesh to do the things flesh cannot do.
( Ps. 119:165 ; Matt. 5:3-12 ; John 14:27 ; John 15:11 ; John 16:33 ) God's peace
and joy are available to believers regardless of others, possessions or circumstances. We are to be dependent upon God. As we become so we will not be controlled by others but will be free to love others as God loves us. We are primarily accountable to God-not to self, spouse, parents or others.
Change
( Eph. 4:22-24 ; Matt. 7:5 ; 1 Cor. 11:28-31 ; Heb. 4:12 ; Rom. 6:12-13 ; 2 Cor.
10:5 ) To keep God's anointing flowing through you, you must daily put-off old sinful
habits, identify them, judge yourself in the light of God's word, confess and repent and put them aside immediately. Do not take life for granted. You are God's ambassador on earth. You are His standard for the world to see.
( 2 Tim. 2:22 ; Titus 2:11-12 ; Gal. 5:16 ; Matt. 22:37 ; Col. 1:10 ; Rom. 8:29 ;
Rom. 5:17 ) As we put-on the righteous deeds in the power of the Holy Spirit, we grow
daily in the image of God. We become on earth, vessels reflecting and revealing the Spirit of God within to the world without as we destroy the works of the devil and establish God's righteousness on earth. We are to rule and to exercise predominance over the world's system and institutions ( Gen. 1:28 ; Matt. 28:18-20 ).
( Prov. 10:12 ; Eph. 4:32 ; 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) We begin the process by forgiving others
biblically as necessary. We seek reconciliation and restoration in accordance with biblical principles. We do not retaliate, we eliminate stumbling blocks, and seek ways to bless others. Our Lord took care of sin at the cross. Our role is to destroy the structure - the scaffolding - the habit patterns - of sin embedded in our minds over the years. We are to rebuild these structures until our faculties, our intellect, our passions, are placed solely under the rule and lordship of Jesus Christ ( 2 Cor. 10:3-5 ; Prov. 21:22 ).
Perspective
( Rom. 5:3-5 ; 2 Tim. 3:16-17 ; James 1:21-25 ; 2 Pet. 1:2-4 ) Effective and lasting
biblical change is a continuing process. You are to obey the commands and guidelines in God's word for every area of your life (your thoughts, words and actions). As you stop(put-off) the old continuing pattern of sin and begin (put-on) the new practice of righteousness and holiness, you are renewed in the spirit of your mind.
Being justified, we are no longer defeated by trials and sufferings. To the contrary, by God's grace, we use problems as opportunities to grow in Christ. Working through pressure, oppression, afflictions, and distress, we develop endurance, fortitude, steadfastness, constancy, perseverance. Thus, patience stirs experience and this develops character, integrity, strength. Also experience stirs up hope. By enduring trials, we experience the presence and strength of God. When a justified man becomes stronger in character, he draws closer to God. The closer he draws to God, the more he hopes for the glory of God.
Hope
( John 15:10-11 ; John 16:33 ; Matt. 6:33 ; 1 John 2:3-4 ; 1 John 3:22 ) You are
to walk in a manner worthy of God and to please Him in every area of your life. As you obediently respond to God's love, you become mature in the Lord and are blessed with peace and joy regardless of your feelings, other people or circumstances of life. The believer's hope, peace and joy is based upon the presence of God's Spirit who dwells within the believer. These virtues are activated when one biblically responds to life.
( 1 Cor. 6:19-20 ; 1 Pet. 1:17-19 ; Luke 16:10-13 ; John 16:17 ; 1 John 2:20,27 )
You were purchased with the precious blood of Jesus, you wholly belong to Him. You are God's possession and a steward (managing servant) of all that the Lord has provided for you. The anointing of Christ is with you. God's wisdom, strength and ability are within you to exercise your particular talent and gifts to become a blessing to those about you. Christ in you, the hope of glory, the anointing of God is upon your flesh to do the things flesh cannot do.
( Ps. 119:165 ; Matt. 5:3-12 ; John 14:27 ; John 15:11 ; John 16:33 ) God's peace
and joy are available to believers regardless of others, possessions or circumstances. We are to be dependent upon God. As we become so we will not be controlled by others but will be free to love others as God loves us. We are primarily accountable to God-not to self, spouse, parents or others.
Change
( Eph. 4:22-24 ; Matt. 7:5 ; 1 Cor. 11:28-31 ; Heb. 4:12 ; Rom. 6:12-13 ; 2 Cor.
10:5 ) To keep God's anointing flowing through you, you must daily put-off old sinful
habits, identify them, judge yourself in the light of God's word, confess and repent and put them aside immediately. Do not take life for granted. You are God's ambassador on earth. You are His standard for the world to see.
( 2 Tim. 2:22 ; Titus 2:11-12 ; Gal. 5:16 ; Matt. 22:37 ; Col. 1:10 ; Rom. 8:29 ;
Rom. 5:17 ) As we put-on the righteous deeds in the power of the Holy Spirit, we grow
daily in the image of God. We become on earth, vessels reflecting and revealing the Spirit of God within to the world without as we destroy the works of the devil and establish God's righteousness on earth. We are to rule and to exercise predominance over the world's system and institutions ( Gen. 1:28 ; Matt. 28:18-20 ).
( Prov. 10:12 ; Eph. 4:32 ; 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) We begin the process by forgiving others
biblically as necessary. We seek reconciliation and restoration in accordance with biblical principles. We do not retaliate, we eliminate stumbling blocks, and seek ways to bless others. Our Lord took care of sin at the cross. Our role is to destroy the structure - the scaffolding - the habit patterns - of sin embedded in our minds over the years. We are to rebuild these structures until our faculties, our intellect, our passions, are placed solely under the rule and lordship of Jesus Christ ( 2 Cor. 10:3-5 ; Prov. 21:22 ).
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