How do we do it? (Ephesians 6:10-20)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 6:10-20

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

COMMENT

How do we do it? (See yesterday) How do we graciously accept our place in life, which may even include such things as being slave to a less than compassionate master? And the answer is found here. Be strong in the Lord, out on the armor of God. Satan has his schemes, his limited control of the kingdom of earth. For it is not these unjust rulers or masters that we stand against, but the spiritual forces of evil. Hold to the truth. Act righteously, even when others don't. Walk in the way of the gospel, which is to live in peace and not fear. Hold on to your faith, which will protect you from the weapons of evil. The helmet of salvation protects you, even in death. Yet do not be afraid to take the offensive using the sword of the Spirit. In other words, do not fear explaining the how and why of your actions. And pray. Pray for yourself, and for those of the faith who fight with you. Pray that they will be strong and faithful, as they proclaim the Gospel.

I think these words may become very timely soon. Time will tell. 

When It Is Easy, and When It Is Hard (Ephesians 6:1-9)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 6:1-9

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.

COMMENT

I put these section together not because I think children are servants, or servants are children, but because I think they have a principle in common. You don't choose your parents, nor do slaves choose their masters. Whatever your lot, and this includes work, where you live, etc., there are things that you have to deal with that maybe you did not have a partial or even any choice in. But deal with them you must, and dealing with them righteously is how a Christian should react.

Children, obey your parents, honor them. Do we even know what it means to honor someone anymore? Now parents are not without responsibility in this, but not all parents, even Christian parents, do a good job at this. That does not relieve the children from honoring and obeying. Servants also are to obey. Masters are told how to treat servants, but again, not all will follow this, and that does not seem to release the servant from his obligation.

What I take away from this is that you are given a code of how to respond. Not a code of telling others how to respond, or a release from that obligation if things do not go you way. Obey, honor...those can be difficult things to do even under good circumstances, let alone when you feel it is not deserved or appreciated. I think the next section gives some ideas as to the "how" of accomplishing this, so I will stop here for today.

Marriage (Ephesians 5:22-33)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 5:22-33

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body. “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

COMMENT

Just some observations about this passage...

• I believe these 2 paragraphs should be treated together, as they are interlocking and dependent on one another
• I come to this passage knowing that I am not a perfect person or husband. I imagine that for this reason, this passage is very intimidating to many preachers to take on.
• Gender issues aside, I have to believe that if the average were taken, males are stronger than females. Sure there are women stronger than some men, and men weaker than most women. But if the average of each were to be compared, in strength, size, and height, it would not be a fair contest. That is why we have an NBA and a WNBA. You don't see women playing quarterback for the Bears or Packers. Etc. It is why there is outrage when a man who identifies as a women wants to complete against women. So when this passage states that husbands are the head of the wife, it is a statement of placement, and not superiority. God decided this, and both in physical ability and God's plan, then man is the head. Wives should understand this and honor it.
• Headship in God's plan is not the same as headship as the world sees it. Consider Jesus, who as the head of the church sacrificed Himself for the church. 
• Therefore, while the head of the wife, it is in the realm of having the desire for the best possible world for the wife that the husband exists. As Christ is the protector of the church, so that the church might appear before God as whole and blameless, the husband should have to same desire. 
• A break down in one side or the other is very damaging to the relationship. If the wife does not submit to the husband, if she does not trust or honor him, it makes is very difficult for the husband to effectively function in his role as protector and provider. Think of it as the church not trusting in Jesus. No matter what He might do, the relationship suffers harm and is not what it could and should be. The same is true for the husband. If the husband abuses his role as head, it also damages the relationship, and it is not what it could or should be.

So I am off, seems I have some work to do...

Focus on YOU! (Ephesians 5:15-21)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 5:15-21

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

COMMENT

The first thing that really sticks out here is the idea that you should look carefully how YOU walk, and not how others walk. I believe Jesus covered this with the log and speck idea in Matthew 7, but it bears repeating (as many of the concepts of Scripture do, because we are so slow to listen.) The days are evil, and that is out of our hands. Yet we must focus on our behavior, for that is what we can control. Simple concept, but so hard to accept and practice sometimes!

Focus (Ephesians 5:15-21)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 5:15-21

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

COMMENT

Watch yourself! This is not telling us to look at others, monitor their behavior, and report to the authorities when warranted. It is telling us to watch our own walk. Be smart. Make good use of your time and effort. Why? Because we live in an evil time. Don't be stupid! Understand what God's will is, and it is to do exactly what Paul just wrote, check your own behavior, motivations, and lifestyle. 

Don't get drunk with wine. Don't try to escape the issues that surround you, but do it in a manner that is spirit led. Focus on God at all times, and in all manner of communication. Give thanks in all circumstance, remembering what Christ did on your behalf!

Batteries Not Included (Ephesians 5:3-14)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 5:3-14

But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,
“Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,

and Christ will shine on you.”

COMMENT 

In verses 1 and 2, Paul tells us that we should be imitators of God, and why we should do that. Now he turns his attention to what that should look like. He is dealing with a specific audience, so he is going to talk about what misconceptions they might have. This is not the the conversion of your neighborhood garden club. This is the conversion of people whose religion involved temple prostitutes and other vile behaviors. It was their RELIGION, so might not they think it appropriate to transfer some of these actions to their new faith? Paul wants to nip this in the bud! (Makes me wonder what Paul would say to those who have been converted to faith today from a stale, bland, life-draining religion that could not and would not save them.)

So make no mistake, this is not a list of "to-dos" or a legalistic behavioral approach to belief in Christ. It is a description of what this new life entails, and one that is without apology. It should and likely did cut these people to the heart. It also likely weeded some of those who we not ready or able to make such a commitment. Like the rich young ruler before Jesus, Paul seems to be willing to let some walk away. (Oh, that we would have such strength of faith today!)

I think my favorite part of this section is this: try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.

It is not about me, what I think faith should look like, my comfort, ease, prosperity, etc. It is about God. To live is Christ, to die is gain.

Worthy of Imitation (Ephesians 5:1-2)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 5:1-2

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

COMMENT

First, let me begin by saying that I do not believe it is possible to imitate God, however, it is a great goal for those who love Him.

I still admire my dad. He was not perfect, but was an incredible human being, at least for what I know about him. And that is a lot, having had the opportunity to work with him for a year, as an apprentice mechanic, before changing paths and going to college. I got to see first hand, what he had to put up with to bring a decent paycheck home to care for his family. I often feel that I fall so short of the example that he set. But that doesn't mean that I do not attempt to imitate him. 

Growing up, I didn't always understand why my dad made some of the choices he did. But because I knew him, and I could see his heart, I trusted him. I think about my own children. They don't always know why I make the decisions that I do, but my hope is that they trust me. That deep down, they know I have their best interests at heart.

Just as I know that God loves me. He is worthy of being idolized. He is worthy of being imitated. He is my Abba Father.

Impact of Anger (Ephesians 4:25-32)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 4:25-32

Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

COMMENT

Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another

The lie has been put away, the lie that we can live as we once did, in darkness. The lie that God does not exist or that worship is some kind of carnal game. Now we speak truth. We speak Jesus. Not a list of rules or commandments, but a life that results in change. We speak this truth not just for ourselves, but within a community of believers. As part of a body, and as part of a body, we seek the good of the whole rather than just the individual.

Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil

Yes, there will be times we disagree. But do not let your anger or bitterness get the best of you. Holding on to anger only increases the fact that you will not act in accordance with the gospel.

Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear

Change. Repent. That is the summary of how we should behave. Don't take this as a list of to-dos, but rather as examples of what repentance might look like.

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption

Do not allow your actions to be outside of what repentance demands of you.

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you

Forgive. Whether 70 times 7 or 77 times, the idea is do not keep track. God did not give up on you!

Real Change (Ephesians 4:17-24)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 4:17-24

Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. But that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

COMMENT

Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity

We must no longer walk in ignorance. To do so indicates an alienation from God. Paul talks about the darkness that they live in, and of their understanding. Yes, this makes sense. When we think of talking to someone who does not have all the facts, or who has skewed facts or been lied to, yet they believe in their heart what they know to be true, it is almost if not completely impossible to convince them of the truth. Their beliefs constrain them to living in a way that is does not conform with reality, because they are living in a reality of their own. Even when presented with proof, these folks are hard to convince because this new truth conflicts with their perceived truth, and they do not want to entertain the reality that they might be wrong. So, in a sense, they surrender themselves to what they believe to be true. As the gentiles of Paul's time did this meant belief in idols and worshipping with temple prostitutes.

But that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness

But Jesus is more that just a means to salvation, He is our Savior in the here and now. The truth demands a response. Christians call it repentance. Not just turning your back on sin, but putting off your old self. Not one foot in heaven an one on earth, but two feet planted firmly in the gospel's life changing message, now and from this day forward.

Jesus Loves Me (Ephesians 4:9-16)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 4:9-16

(In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

COMMENT

(In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.)

I believe that Paul, being led by the Spirit, is making a clarifying statement here. There were those who did not believe in the humanity of Jesus, or the fact that Jesus came from heaven to earth. But how could Jesus return to heaven, unless He had first came down to earth, and how could He return, unless He was here?

And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ

Jesus did not leave us alone once He returned to heaven. He gave us the equipment needed to be able to mature. Apostles, evangelists, shepherds, teachers all helped fulfill that need. Eventually the New Testament would be added to that list. 

But not all prophets, evangelists, etc. are genuine. I believe that is where Scripture comes in. It is the measure against deception and the deceptive practices of Satan. Problem is, how many people really know enough about the Scriptures to use them as a basis for deception prevention? Scripture even speaks of those who only hear what their itching ears want to hear. Therefore, the blame lies with both the speaker and the audience. 

until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes

See, there is the element of "human cunning" that we must be aware of. The immature will not only believe such people, they will pursue them. 

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love

Love, the L word. I think that many have misinterpreted this word. Some think it means giving only good things. But parents who only give good things, and never discipline their children, those children do not grow up to be the kind of people that others want to be with. No one likes to hang around with spoiled, selfish people. Speaking the truth in love sometimes means saying things that others might not want to hear. But if it is done in love, it is not done to harm them, but rather for their good. Telling someone that they are saved when they are not is probably one of the cruelest things a person could do. Just look at how the body grows and develops. If all you ever did was feed a body, and did not ever let that body experience exercise or work of any kind, it would not be a very strong body. If we want to grow into Christ, we need food, but also exercise. We need the love of a parent who awakens their child and sends them off to school, not the false love of one who lets the child go back to bed because they don't like school. We need to teach and be aware of that kind of love.

Same, Yet Different (Ephesians 4:1-8)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 4:1-8

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it says,

“When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.”

COMMENT

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord

Literally a prisoner and figuratively as well. A prisoner by force, and a prisoner by choice.

urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called

Paul's calling is not your calling. But whatever you have been called to do, do it in a worthy manner, fitting for a prisoner of God.

with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace

Bearing with one another. Understanding that there are different callings, different manifestations of the Spirit, different understandings of God and His plans.

There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all

But with all of the differences we have, God is one. His plans call for different gifts, different callings, different personalities, etc., but one God so one purpose. One faith, faith in Christ. One baptism, immersion into His Son, one Father, God Himself.

But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it says,

“When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.”

The grace by which you stand did not come through your effort, but the work of Christ. It is finished. The measure of that grace comes from the riches of God's grace. Gifts vary according to God's purposes. As does calling. 

He Can Do All This and More (Ephesians 3:20-21)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 3:20-21

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

COMMENT

I could have easily tacked these verses on to the last post, since they are in keeping with the train of thought in those verses, but decided to do otherwise. 

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think

I believe that the "him" in these section refers to God the Father. Just how powerful is God? ALL powerful. To think that God is too busy dealing with larger, perhaps even world problems to bother Him with our issues is to under estimate God power. God is the ultimate multi-tasker, able to keep the planets in motion, the stars in place, and still had time to count the hairs on your head. In fact, this verse seems to say that no matter how much we ask, He could to more. Much more. Not that we should twist this into some kind of prosperity-minded theology, but God is able to take care of our needs, whatever they are. 

according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

No, this is not saying that our faith can limit His power, but I believe that is saying that the miracles God works when He does choose to show Himself, reveal His glory, and confirm the glory of His Son Jesus, and this will continue throughout the ages. 

God is not only the Father of Jesus, He is our Father as well. And as a father, He is the one who makes the decisions about what He will do for us. We have to trust that. Some fathers spoil their children, and those children have an unrealistic expectation of what a father should do. A good father does not give in to the every whim of their child or children. In fact, a good father might even allow His child to suffer in order that the child might know and understand things. This is the challenging part of being a father. God has the resources to do all we ask and more. Doesn't mean He is bound by some cosmic obligation to do so. Look at what He has already done. Give Him the praise He is due. Know that in the end, His love will provide for us. That is what we need.

Spirit verses Flesh (Ephesians 3:14-19)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 3:14-19

For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

COMMENT

For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named

What reason? Perhaps the things he was just speaking of. That God is in charge. That all that Paul has and is comes from the grace of God. That Paul is the least of all of the saints. That God is now choosing to reveal His plan, That we not lose heart because of the circumstances we are in... Paul bows before God, because he know both, who God is and who he (Paul) is. 

that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith

Paul's prayer is for strength in the inner being, our spirit. No promises of prosperity, perhaps even speaking of the difficulties that must be endured. Not overcome, endured. Like Jesus had to endure the cross. That in our spirit, we may find strength in Christ.

that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Maybe lacking in material possessions, which can and will pass away, but rather be filled with the fullness of God, which cannot be taken and will not pass away. And God is love. But do we even understand that word today? Seems that many think that love is a weak thing, that just gives with no thought of the consequence of the gift to the one who receives it. Or that love demands that we get what is coming to us. How many commercials use the words, "You deserve...?" Like, get all the benefits you deserve. You deserve a nicer, newer car. And so on. So we have a mentality that we deserve anything and everything, just because. But this kind of thinking ends when we can't pay the credit card or make the house or car payment. Try telling the bank you should get to keep something just because you deserve it. But that is the mentality in America today. 

I can't help but hear the words of Matthew 18:8. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?

God's Way (Ephesians 3:7-13)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 3:7-13

Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory.

COMMENT

Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power.

Paul was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace. Don't know why, but today is strikes me, who chooses who receives a gift? It is not the recipient, but the donor. Not sure if that is part of the intent of Paul's teaching here, but if so, it seems to lend toward the idea that it is God, not man, who chooses salvation, since it also is referred to as a gift. One thing that Paul seems to be evidently stating, is that his gift in ministry was by God's doing, and a show of God's power, not his own. Goes right along with his teaching about no one having a reason to boast.

To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given

This reinforces Paul's idea regarding humility. Anyone think it strange that God chose the least of all saints to write so much of the New Testament? I don't, seeing as how that is a pattern that God tends to follow, that of using the humble and weak to get the job done.

to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things

God had a plan. Man could not see it, and God was not ready to reveal it. Man was blinded by his desire for comfort, ease, blessing. God knew what needed to be done. Even today, so many yearn for comfort, ease, blessing, and are blinded by that so that when things don't go their way they assume God has forgotten them. Or maybe they just don't have enough faith. But perhaps the truth is that God is hiding his plan because either we are not ready to see it or He just needs us to trust Him. If God created all things, are our circumstances really out of His awareness or control?

so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places

I wonder if the church is fulfilling this responsibility today. I know that it is, but is it doing so in the full measure of what it is capable of? I doubt it. Is it doing it up to the measure that God sets forth? Absolutely.

The problem is not God, it is the church's response to the gospel. When some churches follow a message that is really not the gospel can we expect those churches to fulfill their responsibility to make God known to others, whether rulers or just neighbors? 

Also, who are the "authorities in the heavenly places?" Is the true church also testifying to the demons and angels, making God known to them? Yes, I know that the demons believe, but making God known would also seem to involve making His character known to them, something I believe they miss entirely.

This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory

Don't lose heart. Two days after an election, and many are frustrated. Perhaps even more so, if their candidate is behind. Fraud and other charges, real or imagined, will be verbalized. But whatever the end result, whether truthful or manipulated, eventually we will have to live with it. So do not lose heart. The same God who created all things is still over all things, and nothing is out of His sight or control. If He knows the number of hairs on your head, He certainly knows what is going on in every aspect of the world. Do not lose heart, even when things do not go you way.

The Mystery (Ephesians 3:1-6)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 3:1-6

For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you, how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

COMMENT

For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles

Paul was literally a prisoner for Christ, but I think that he might be using this as a play on the words, because prisoner means a captive, or one who is bound, and Paul was certainly a captive of Christ.

When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.

The mystery of Christ was not made known prior to His coming. People were looking for a totally different type of Messiah. They were looking for an earthly ruler, one who would set them free from the oppression of the Romans. God had different plans. He sent a Savior who would set them free from sin, who would demolish the barrier between men and God. I find it ironic that people still look for a Messiah who will set them free in earthly terms, one who will lift them out of poverty, or sickness, etc. Yes, Jesus can and does heal sickness and maybe provides prosperity for some, but first and foremost He is the Savior of my soul.

This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

Salvation for gentiles? Yes, Jesus came for all who would believe. Some who thought He would be their Messiah rejected Him because the could not or refused to understand. Still true today.

Together (Ephesians 2:11-22)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 2:11-22

Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

COMMENT

At one time the Ephesians were separated from the promises of God, which were given to Israel. They had no hope of salvation. But Jesus changed that on the cross. The blood of Christ flowed to the Jews and the gentiles. It was the blood of Christ that changed things, not anything the Ephesians had done themselves. Not only did He bring salvation, but He demolished that wall of hostility. Imagine being in a family where one child was lavished with attention and material gifts, and the other child received nothing. Would there not be hostility between the two? By granting salvation to both Jew and gentile, that wall of hostility falls. So were are no longer strangers or aliens, but are all one, because we have one Father. 

The Gospel According to Paul (Ephesians 2:1-10)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 2:1-10

And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

COMMENT

And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.

We were sinners. All of us, without exception. The degree of our sin did not matter, it was enough to separate us from God. We were dead to Him, but alive to the prince of disobedience, focused on our own desires. Focused on ourselves, we were children of wrath.

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved

But God loves us, and He had a plan. Remember, God is not just merciful, He is rich in mercy. He has an abundance of mercy. So while we were dead to Him, He gave us life by joining us with Christ, the perfect Lamb of God, who thought not of Himself, but of God and of us. This is grace. This is the greatest miracle God has done. 

and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith.

Because of what Jesus did, we can be with God. Because He has taken the consequence, the penalty of our rebellion and selfishness, we can enter heaven. In the coming ages we will see the riches of His grace. It is God's grace that saves us, and nothing else.

And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

If there is any doubt about who is responsible, let me say it again, it is not your doing, it is a gift from God. You have no basis to boast, either before God or before one another. 

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

God is the craftsman, we are the product. God is the potter, we are the clay. God knows us, has crafted us, and has plans for us. 

That is the gospel. That is the love and mercy of God. But God is not just love and mercy. He is also righteous and just. That is why He had to go to such extremes to save us. That is what makes the gospel so beautiful, that is what should drive our worship and response to Him.

Not Without the Spirit (Ephesians 1:15-23)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 1:15-23

For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

COMMENT

Have you ever wondered how the early church grew, thrived, or even survived without men who had seminary degrees, without bloggers, without TV evangelists? My only conclusion can be that it was the working of the Holy Spirit in the believers of the early church. Paul sees this and is thankful for this. I love the phrase, "having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you." That speaks to me of the fact that no matter what we think or do, God is in control. I fear that we have lost some of this. Not because God is less powerful, but because we place our faith in knowledge over love. The preacher is exalted as the divine orator of God's plans, and we are to fall in line. I think of the millionaire mega-pastors. I think of a pastor in our city who convince his congregation to move to a new site, buy a large parcel of land, and build a mega building. Then, they would attract new businesses to that area, and sell off some of the extra land to pay for it all (at a handsome profit, of course). Then the 2008 recession hit. They ended up having to lay off some of their staff. I am sure that programs had to be altered, and perhaps their giving to missionaries as well. The pastor soon took a position somewhere else. Having been in ministry for a few years, having gone to church for many others, and even working as a teacher in a Christian school, I have other stories I could tell... 

I wonder if the Jews, who did not understand about the true mission of the Messiah, laughed at the Christians when they suffered. Maybe a "How's your Jesus working for you now!" might have been uttered. But these Christians knew that it was not about an earthly kingdom or for our ease and comfort that Jesus bled and died. 

The church, and I mean the real, universal body of true believers is His body, is the fullness of Him. Not the local congregation, although there are some that fulfill this role well. While others put on an impressive show of wealth and piety. I think we would do well to measure our actions against those of the Jewish leaders Jesus constantly had to contend with. I think we would do well to remember that our mission is not to grow or save the church. God has been doing a great job of taking care of that for years. Our mission is to respond to our salvation in love for God and others. Our mission is to reveal His glory through our lives and not our buildings or programs. I think of 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

I am not against buildings or programs. But without love, without submission to God' Holy Spirit, it really is in vain.

Proverbs 16:9 The heart of man plans his way,

but the Lord establishes his steps.

Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man,

but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.

Wow! I really did not see that going there this morning.

So Many Questions... (Ephesians 1:11-14)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 1:11-14

In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

COMMENT

In him we have obtained an inheritance

How far does the analogy go? Those who inherit do not decide to take an inheritance, they are given on because they are sons. Or should this analogy only go so far as to mean that those who become sons have the inheritance? 

having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory

There is the "P" word again, predestined. Were we chosen because of His will, or was it our will and then that melds into His will? In either case, it is for His glory that this occurs.

In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

What happened when we heard the Gospel? We were sealed with the Holy Spirit, and our inheritance was guaranteed. Again, was it set forth by God's choosing, and sealed by the gospel and our belief, or did we hear the gospel, and then were sealed when we chose to believe? In either case, there is a word there that bears thought. That word is guarantee. Our inheritance is guaranteed. Does that mean that we cannot lose our salvation? If we can, then what does this guarantee mean?

So many questions...

But there are also implications. Implications that include that unless we hear the gospel and believe it, we are not sealed, and therefore not saved. Implications regarding that the gospel we submit to must be the gospel of truth, and not any man's version or any distortion of the gospel. Implications regarding our response, because in the Bible, believe involves change and repentance. 

Amazing Grace, Amazing God (Ephesians 1:3-10)

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 1:3-10

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

COMMENT

even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world

What does this verse mean when it states that he (God) chose us? Does that mean He individually chose who would be saved and who wouldn't? Or does it mean that God chose those who would choose to believe to be saved? I have my opinions, but only God's opinion matters. I don't like it when people say things like, "Calvinism is the Gospel," or "Calvinism is heresy." There are valid points to both arguments, and also problems with both arguments. It just seems a little arrogant or self-righteous to say such things. And these are the people who usually will not even listen to another's point of view.

that we should be holy and blameless before him.

This is why He redeems us. Not so that we can be right, or so that we can save others. It is so that we can stand before Him, so that one day we can be in His presence. Sure, it is good to be right, it is good to do all kinds of things, but that is not why He redeems us. And you know what that should produce in us? Humility. Worship. Love, both for God and for others. The leaders in Jesus' time lacked these things. They were full of pride, their worship was in vain, and they loved their places and titles more than God. Many today are in a similar boat. Abandon ship!

 according to the riches of his grace

I love that phrase. God is not just merciful, but He is rich in grace. His grace is not something given out with an eye dropper, but poured out abundantly, because God has much grace! And we are blessed according to the riches of His grace, and not the works of our own selves. That is why grace is so amazing. 

which he lavished upon us

He didn't just give us grace, He lavished it upon us. He poured out so much grace because we needed so much grace. We will never run out of grace, He has given us so much!

making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

He did it for our sake, so that heaven and earth can be united. He did not need earth to come to Him to be complete, but we certainly need heaven to come to us to be complete. Praise God for what He does for our sake.

Hosea 14

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 14

COMMENT

Chapter 14 begins with a plea by the prophet of repent, or return to the Lord. 

God responds in verse 4  "I will heal their apostasy; I will love them freely, for my anger has turned from them."

What is the difference here, why does God turn His wrath away now? One can only surmise that this repentance is genuine. Perhaps Israel is tired of playing games or tired of not being able to gather God's forgiveness through their false actions and lips. Perhaps they have realized that God is mightier than they imagined. Or perhaps God has opened their eyes to these truths, both by His actions and His will. 

Whatever the case, listen and meditate on verse 9.

Whoever is wise, let him understand these things;
whoever is discerning, let him know them;
for the ways of the Lord are right,
and the upright walk in them,
but transgressors stumble in them.

Hosea 13

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 13

COMMENT

Ephraim spoke, and the people revered his words. But those words were dishonest or not spoken in righteousness. Ephraim was a whore, and had sold out to other gods. 

God is still God, even when others say He is not, and God is the only one who offers salvation, through His Son, for those who believe. Those who are not saved, even though they might think otherwise, fear the Lion. Rightfully so. 

When the loin attacks, the prey wonder who will save them. But there is no one to save them from the apex predator. Their trust in other gods and idols has left them vulnerable. Their destruction is coming. And it will be devastating and complete, horrific and tragic.

Hosea 12

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 12

COMMENT

Here's what I see as I read this chapter. Israel is still guilty before God, and is deserving of punishment. The striving of Jacob, and his defeating of an angel is an interesting note in the chapter, and perhaps hints at a return to God, but the sins and arrogance of Israel are again brought in to view. 

Vs. 9,10: I am the Lord your God from the land of Egypt; I will again make you dwell in tents, as in the days of the appointed feast. I spoke to the prophets; it was I who multiplied visions, and through the prophets gave parables.

God is still in charge. I wonder if the idea of again dwelling in tents means the taking away of their homes and making them nomads again. 

Hosea 11

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 11

COMMENT

I believe this chapter describes the love of God. Not that wishy-washy, prosperity gospel kind of love where God wants you to have everything. But the kind of love that shows what God does for us, and that He wants the best for us, and that best is Him. 

God cared for Israel, yet in spite of His care, they turned away to other Gods. Since they continually refused to accept His care, He gave them over to other rulers. Rulers who did not love them, who would not treat them kindly. And still, God did not desert them. For He is God, and does not love as man loves. 

Hosea 10

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 10

COMMENT

The more Israel prospered, the more altars they built, and not altars to the God of heaven. So how does that fit in to your prosperity gospel preaching? Haven't heard you use that text!

God will break down their altars. Does this speak to America too? Verses 3 and 4 tell me that could be true. 

Verse 10: When I please, I will discipline them, and nations shall be gathered against them when they are bound up for their double iniquity.

Do those words scare anyone else? Did they bother Israel? 

Verse 12: Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground, for it is the time to seek the Lord, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you.

Time to seek the Lord. It is always that time.

Hosea 9

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 9

COMMENT

Israel has played the whore and has forsaken God. As a result, they must face the consequences.

But MY God is a God of love! He would not punish or withhold His mercy! (Many would say)

Yeah, right. What good parent would discipline a child? Love does not mean giving you what you want. In fact, that is more likely the opposite of love. Those who speak in such a way basically prove that they do not really know God.

Israel has been in full-out rebellion or rejection of God. God in turn is removing His mercy, that they might repent. This is not a one-step process. Israel at first gives lip service to God, but does not have a truly repentant heart. God sees through this. The retribution is severe! I would not wish the events on this chapter on anyone. Perhaps chapter 10 will bring a better message!

Hosea 8

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 8

COMMENT

Israel claims to know God. (Vs. 2) But their actions show otherwise. I wonder how many today are int he same boat. It is what makes Jesus' comment in Matthew 7:23 so frightening, when He says, "And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’"

There is a difference between knowing Jesus and thinking you know Jesus. It is proved by one's actions. Do we love God? Do we love others? Just following a ritualistic law, even if it is good stuff, is not evidence of knowing Jesus. In fact, it may show just the opposite.

Punishment is coming to Israel because they do not know God. They think they do, or at least they claim they do. But the God who knows the heart is not fooled. 

Vs. 14: For Israel has forgotten his Maker and built palaces, and Judah has multiplied fortified cities; so I will send a fire upon his cities, and it shall devour her strongholds. That is just as scary as Matthew 7:23!

Hosea 7

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 7

COMMENT

It sounds as if they are trying to put one over on God, that by proclaiming a repentance, but one that is not true, they can somehow fool God. But not only is God not fooled, but He has not forgotten their past. In some regards, it is almost as if even they believe their own lie. Or perhaps they just do not know God in a way that enables them to sincerely repent, and taking as many as possible along with them in their folly.

Vs. 10: The pride of Israel testifies to his face; yet they do not return to the Lord their God, nor seek him, for all this.

Vs. 13-14: Woe to them, for they have strayed from me! Destruction to them, for they have rebelled against me! I would redeem them, but they speak lies against me. They do not cry to me from the heart, but they wail upon their beds; for grain and wine they gash themselves; they rebel against me.

God would restore them, if they had truly repented. This is a scary thought, because I believe it is possible to believe a lie, to deceive ourselves because of what we want to be true. I believe the Bible calls it having itching ears. 

Some want to hold God to a standard that they have no business holding Him to. They say He does not fulfill His promises because the responses are not as they would have them to be. But one thing they do not take into account, that God knows the heart. He knows if the repentance is sincere, or if it is just to somehow regain God's favor. God never promised us heaven on earth, in fact, just the opposite. We are told that times of heartache and suffering would come. He tells us to pick up our cross. But that does not sell in today's Christian marketplace. 

Hosea 6

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 6

COMMENT

So much in this chapter. The Israelites decide to return to the Lord. "for he has torn us, that he may heal us; he has struck us down, and he will bind us up." (Vs 1) Verse 2 seems to allude to what God will do for us in Christ. They speak of wanting to know the Lord. 

But God seems to doubt either their ability or sincerity. He tells them, "Your love is like a morning cloud, like the dew that goes early away." (Vs 4) Ouch! And in verse 6, "For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings." Sound familiar? God desires mercy over sacrifice, knowledge over burnt offerings. 

But for Judah, a harvest is appointed when God will restore the fortunes of His people. Our efforts, our promises are nothing. True faithfulness comes from God and the promises that He makes.

Hosea 5

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 5

COMMENT

Guilty. They are all guilty of sin, the priests, Israel, you, me, all! The line, "For the spirit of whoredom is within them, for they do not know the Lord." (Vs 4) is so full of condemnation. This is more than a simple mistake, it is flat out rebellion. Own it! (Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.")

Also, "Their deeds do not permit them to return to their God. (Vs 4) It's true. Outside of some divine intervention, salvation is out of reach!

God is the answer, but they tried other remedies. (Vs. 13) But to no avail. When will it end? When they acknowledge their guilt and seek God's face. When they truly repent of their behavior and attitudes. What will bring this about? Only their distress. Only God, in love, taking away His mercy so that they can see again, and not be blinded by the good things of God, which sometimes get in the way of truly seeing God. 

Hosea 4

 SCRIPTURE

Hosea 4

COMMENT

Understanding. The people of Israel were unfaithful. Not only unfaithful, but engaging in activities that violated God's standards. As a result, they would suffer. They destroyed themselves for a lack of knowledge. The priests were held to account, because they had forgotten the law of God.

There is a special accountability for leaders. I think of the leaders of today and the crap they spew from their lips in the name of God. Their lack of knowledge is appalling, and perhaps a reason that we are headed where I believe we may be headed as a country. You can blame the politicians all you want, but ultimately we are responsible for a generation that seeks pleasure, relief, and freedom from obligation. For a generation that does not know the meaning of individual responsibility or hard work. For a generation that wants what the government can give it, ignorant of the cost or who will ultimately pay for it. 

We have forsaken God because we do not know nor do we understand Him. We attribute love to Him, and then define that love by His gifts. When things are not as we desire, we just say that He does not exist. We have no understanding or knowledge of God or truth. The only truth we will accept is our own truth. Or the truth that is put out to garner our votes. We are the whores this chapter speaks of. That is a hard truth to accept. And yet, God loves us. He pursues is in His ways. If that means He must remove His mercy for a time, He will do that. Will it lead to our repentance?

Hosea 3

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 3

COMMENT

Hosea is told to love a woman who is loved by another man, and is an adulteress, even as the Lord loves the children of Israel, though they turn to other gods and love cakes of raisins. That is not just Israel this speaks of, but all who are called by God to be His children. All have gone astray. Not one does what is good. Yet God loves us, and just as He instructs Hosea to, God pursues his children. 

He instructs Hosea to offer the price of a slave for her. Fitting, the price of a slave for a slave to sin. You must dwell as mine for many days. You shall not play the whore, or belong to another man; so I will be to you. I believe this speaks of the repentant lifestyle that accompanies true conversion. We know belong to God Himself. We have been bought and are now His. Though we live still not seeing Him face to face, we reside as His children. Though we might suffer as one who has nothing, in reality we have everything that matters as a child of God. Seeking God, we will find Him. He will restore us in His time to all good things.

Hosea 2:16-23

 SCRIPTURE

Hosea 2:14-23

COMMENT

Ever had a relationship that was strained? That is what I think about when I read verse 16. We had a strained relationship with God, even calling him, "My Baal." That would be like calling your spouse by another name, and doing it constantly. But God reaches in and removes the names of the Baals, and our memory of them. That is the beginning of the restoration of the relationship. God restores the relationship. He creates safety. He protects. God does the healing.

Jezreel. God sows. God is the initiator. God is the provider. God is the protector. I am His people. He is my God. God restores the relationship, I respond. 

Hosea 2:1-13

SCRIPTURE

Hosea 2:1-13

COMMENT

I am still thinking about the idea that mercy is a gift from God, and not something that we should expect because we deserve it or because He owes it to us. And that God will withhold His mercy if He needs to. He does this out of love. That is a hard one for me to accept. But I have to think about mom's letter.

My mother wrote a letter to her children, and put it in her safety deposit box. She wrote it when we were still children living in her home. We did not read it until after she passed. I was in my 40's at the time. In one part of it, she explained that she would have given us everything she owned if she thought it would be the right thing to do. But she know that it was not. she knew that such a gift would spoil us and end up being wasted. I believe she was right. So she withheld it. And I appreciate her for it. I truly believe that if she thought it was the right thing to do, she  would have done it. I also believe that if she had done that, I would have misused my portion, and might have even blamed her for wasting it. She chose to withhold, an act of love.

In this passage, I believe we see the abuse of God's mercy. Even today, some say that because God is merciful, I can do whatever I please and God will forgive me. God equates such an entitled attitude by equating it with being a whore. He removes His mercy because of this attitude. But not as purely a punishment, but also as an act of love, to lead them back to Him. 

In verse 7 she states, "I will go and return to my first husband, for it was better for me then than now." The start of the journey home? She still has to endure the consequences of her actions. Repentance is more than a return to home because it is a better place than where we currently are. It appears this still needs to be discovered, as God's mercy has yet to return.

Hosea 1:10-11

 SCRIPTURE

Hosea 1:10-11

Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be like the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured or numbered. And in the place where it was said to them, “You are not my people,” it shall be said to them, “Children of the living God.” And the children of Judah and the children of Israel shall be gathered together, and they shall appoint for themselves one head. And they shall go up from the land, for great shall be the day of Jezreel.

COMMENT

Does this contradict the idea where God just called Israel, "Not my people," and told them he is not their God?

I have to admit, I am not an Old Testament scholar, but also do not want to shy away from the Old Testament. But is is confusing. My best thinking at this point is this, Israel has left God. While God has called Israel His chosen people, not all Israel are Israel. By that I mean that not all who call themselves or a a part of the physical Israel and a part of the chosen Spiritual Israel. 

Israel had shunned God's mercy. God had favored them, and they drifted away from the source of their blessing and became enthralled with the gifts, forgetting about the giver. So God, in an act of mercy, withdrew his favor and mercy from them. Matthew Henry's Bible Commentary says this, "Mercy is remembered in the midst of wrath; the rejection, as it shall not be total, so it shall not be final. The same hand that wounded, is stretched forth to heal." I find that powerful. God is not interested in our prosperity, He wants our soul to be righteous. If we cannot handle that in prosperity, then to heal us spiritually, the only recourse is to remove the prosperity that we might see the mercy. 

We should note that in the end, God's mercy is restored. "And in the place where it was said to them, 'You are not my people,' it shall be said to them, 'Children of the living God.' And the children of Judah and the children of Israel shall be gathered together, and they shall appoint for themselves one head." (See Romans 9:25,26 and 1 Peter 2:10 also.) Some might take offense when God removes His mercy. But that is because they are only thinking of themselves, and not of God, His righteousness, or even their own righteousness. They are still focused on the gifts, and not the giver, who is the source of righteousness. But the gifts are not the answer. They do not offer absolution. They do not remove fear or anxiety or healing of any kind. They are just material items. Peace comes through trust. 

Even God's mercy is a gift. I don't know that I ever really truly thought about that. But is not a gift like a car, house, or cash. It is a gift like the air we breathe or the rain that waters the crops. So when God withholds that gift, even for a moment, it is then that we fully recognize the value of that gift.

Hosea 1:4-9

 SCRIPTURE

Hosea 1:4-9

And the Lord said to him, “Call his name Jezreel, for in just a little while I will punish the house of Jehu for the blood of Jezreel, and I will put an end to the kingdom of the house of Israel. And on that day I will break the bow of Israel in the Valley of Jezreel.”
She conceived again and bore a daughter. And the Lord said to him, “Call her name No Mercy, for I will no more have mercy on the house of Israel, to forgive them at all. But I will have mercy on the house of Judah, and I will save them by the Lord their God. I will not save them by bow or by sword or by war or by horses or by horsemen.”
When she had weaned No Mercy, she conceived and bore a son. And the Lord said, “Call his name Not My People, for you are not my people, and I am not your God.”

COMMENT

Imagine, with all of the political correctness going on today, that someone were to name their children such names. Think of the damage to their psyche. 

Jezreel means, "God will sow." Not bad as far as names go. But let's think about the meaning. We hear so much about Karma, and people defend it using the words, "A man reaps what he sows." And this is true, but not in the karma way that most want to use it. If you sow bad actions, expect bad results. That won't keep you from winning the lottery, but it will have consequences. Here, it states that God will sow. It is not man's actions that determine his fate, it is God's. And sow He will as He promises to put an end to the house of Israel.

The daughter's name is No Mercy. Interesting for a God of mercy to say that He will have no mercy on Israel, but will have mercy on Judah. But isn't that how mercy works? Isn't mercy up to the giver? The receiver can beg and plead, but cannot force mercy out of another. If he could, would it be mercy? We know that God is merciful, but being merciful does not mean mercy in every instance. That is what we want. But that is not how mercy works.

The third child, a son, is called Not My People. Maybe those are typical names for the children of prophets, but this seems harsh as well. All along, Israel was the chosen people. Now they have lost that status? Or perhaps is it just transferred to Judah alone? I must say, this is a powerful and confusing turn of events for the people of Israel.

Hosea 1:2,3

SCRIPTURE

When the Lord first spoke through Hosea, the Lord said to Hosea, “Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom, for the land commits great whoredom by forsaking the Lord.” So he went and took Gomer, the daughter of Diblaim, and she conceived and bore him a son.

COMMENT

So basically, Hosea was TOLD to take a wife of unfaithfulness. Someone who maybe was a prostitute, or perhaps just a woman who Hosea know would not remain faithful. God immediately sets the reasoning, as this would be a parallel to what was going on in the rest of Israel. That is a tough thought, to wed to someone who was either already a prostitute, or even someone who was not but would not remain faithful, or both! 

God, however, is faithful. In spite of what Israel was doing, or what we do, God lives up to His promises. Not the promises we want to hear, but the ones that He actually makes. Israel was His chosen people. They did not deserve it. In fact, according to Scripture, God would have been justified in divorcing them, for they had been unfaithful. But God did not. He suffered through their unfaithfulness. I have a feeling that the picture we are about to see would make many an evangelical blush. How could God ask such a thing? But maybe what we need to really ask is, how could Israel do it? Or better yet, how could we?

Why Hosea?

Hosea

I have always been intrigued by the book of Hosea. The idea of God telling one of his prophets to marry a prostitute seems to really go against everything one would think about God. But perhaps that is part of the reason He did it. Things needed to be shaken up! I a world where someone like Paul would not be hired by most churches, God seems to constantly use such people to accomplish His purposes.

According to Bible.org, "The Book of Hosea portrays the dangers of the observance of religious ceremony without genuine devotion and commitment to the Lord." (Here) I think that that is a constant danger for believers, and worthy of pursuit and understanding. 

2 Thess 3:14,15

SCRIPTURE

2 Thess 3:14,15

If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed. Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

COMMENT

I find this interesting on many levels. First, the initial thought is that this is almost a cultic approach to treat someone as an outcast if they do not follow the leader(s). However, on a deeper look, the purpose seems not to be control as much as it is to create awareness. Let him realize the error of his ways for his behavior. They are not to ostracize in a destructive manner, but rather as a warning, still viewing that person as a brother.

Do we take this to heart? Probably not as much as we should. It can be hard to know where to draw the line between matters of disagreement and matters that violate how a believer should behave. I think it takes a strong leader to know the difference.

2 Thess 3:13

SCRIPTURE 

As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.

COMMENT

Short, but powerful. Amen!

2 Thess 2:9-12

SCRIPTURE

The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

COMMENT

Do you believe in Satan? In the Bible? I can't help but think of how the political situation in the U.S. right now mirrors this Scripture. Only both sides would look at the other and say that they are the blind ones. All except the ones who are in control, masterminding the situation. But they are not solely to blame, because the ones who are perishing failed to love the truth, and so be saved. 

God sent a strong delusion. That is a scary term. I feel like there are many strong delusions going on right now. So the question we need to ask ourselves is not what does the other side believe, but what am I buying in to? So much of politics is deception, the buying of votes with promises made with other peoples' money. And the politicians go on and live the good life, without a true care for their constituents. Complain how global warming is causing the fires in California, while munching on ice cream from one of two -$10,000 freezers. Flying all over the country while trying to prevent the ecological crisis. No one is exempt. 

The pleasure in unrighteousness is not reserved for the politicians. It is for the greedy constituents who vote for them because of what the politicians will do for them, regardless of what is best for the country. 

Is the end near?

Here We Go Again...

 Am I wrong here, or is the evangelical church missing the mark?

Preface: I heard a sermon on this text before, at a church I attended before. I struggled with that message. I seemed to me that the speaker had read the text and then just looked for 3 moral messages that he could preach to the choir. Choose action over apathy, choose faith over fear, choose to give glory to God. All good things. Moral things tend to be good. But is that what God desires us to learn from this passage? Or is it about the Gospel message that follows. Fact is, in his sermon series, he skipped over the verses that come next, in which Peter proclaims Jesus as the healer of the beggar.

So the church I am attending (virtually) was also addressing this text. Ten minutes in, and I have heard the name of Jesus several times. That is a plus. Then he starts talking about Peter and John, and particularly the fact that they had no silver and gold. He talks about their empty pockets. This seems to be the thrust of his message from this point onward. 

Point one: Empty pockets allow us to TRUST God's PROVISION. (His emphasis) Again, a great moral point. Peter and John saw the value of empty pockets. Really? Were they really focused on what was in their pockets? Is the only way we can effectively give out of complete poverty? Yes, I believe that in order for us to best serve God, we need to realize that whatever we give Him is nothing compared to what he has provided us in grace and mercy. But that doesn't quite seem to be the point here. Or is it, and I am just missing it? That is an honest question. He goes on to talk about how in these trying times the church he works for was able to help another church out that had a desperate need. But somehow, even in these desperate times, I do not see this church as having empty pockets. They have a large building, beautiful, with elaborate services put on by multiple staff members. They own several of the properties around the church, which they have purchased over the years. While I do not know their financial status, their pockets do not seem to be filled with only lint. 

Point two: Empty pockets allow us to experience the JOY of WHOLENESS. (His emphasis) What he is "longing for is the day that we value empty pockets enough to trust God to make provision in our life and in our world..." He is passionate. He is emotional. He talks about how this might be the time we will look back to see that this moment might just be what God used to restore wholeness to the world. Is that how it is going to work? What about what the Bible says the end times, and all ofthe challenges that believers will face?  Isn't what is happening now more likely to lead us into these kinds of times? Didn't God send Jesus to restore wholeness to the world? Or is there going to be some kind of prosperity phase prior to that, and we are the ones who get to experience it. Why are we always looking for heaven on earth? Is that even a promise in the Bible? Is the suffering just there to lead us to some realm of prosperity? 

Point three: Empty pockets allow us to be amazed at the POWER of God at work in the WORLD. (His emphasis) God has the power if we will value our empty pockets. If??? So God is just waiting for us to empty our pockets? I am at a loss for what to say regarding this type of theology.

Well, at least he does not skip the next section of the book of Acts. I guess I will need to listen to that now.

PS: I did listen to it. It was not the regular speaker, so I will not post on it, although if I did...

Mad Max - Part 2

One of the things that bothers me about Mad Max is the way that he uses Scripture. As I watched the video, I noticed that he uses a lot of Scripture, and a lot of different versions too. He go so far as to use The Message paraphrase when looking at Joshua 10. The message translates one of the verses to say that "God took orders from a human." Most of the versions say that God heeded or heard Joshua's request, but Lucado wants us to believe that Joshua was in charge? He also uses proof-texts that I do not believe are intended to support his views. He uses Isaiah 30:21, and calls it a "great promise." But when I look at it in context, it appears to be talking more about a great repentance. 

There is a lot of truth in what Max says, and just a little bit of leaven. But doesn't a little bit of leaven affect the whole batch? 

Tim Challies does a review of the 5 most ridiculous books ever to become Christian Best Sellers. In it, he criticizes at least one of them for taking a descriptive passage and making it a prescription on how we ought to pray. It would seem to me that Mad Max has done exactly that as well. As far as I can recall, there is only one prescriptive prayer in the Bible, and that is the Lord's Prayer. In that prayer, the message is that of approaching God with humility. We pray not for our wants, but our needs. We pray for forgiveness, but as we have forgiven others. We pray for God's will to be done, and not our own. Even if accomplishing our ends would glorify God. I believe this is how we approach God confidently, as stated in Hebrews, and it is not about approaching God boldly, seeking answers to our desires.

Jesus perhaps did pray boldly at times, like when He asked God that the cup of suffering pass from Him. We all know how that turned out. He also prayed boldly when He asked God to forgive those who were crucifying Him. Those are the only types of bold prayers that I think we ought to pray, and always with the thought that Jesus ended His request to have the cup of suffering taken from Him with, "nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will."