Tag: Encouragement

God has Regrets

On By TimIn 1 Samuel 15, ElectionLeave a comment

Then came the word of the Lord to Samuel, saying, “I regret that I have set up Saul to be king because he has turned back from following Me, and he has not carried out My words.” And it grieved Samuel, and he cried to the Lord all night.

1 Samuel 15:10–11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Is it surprising to know that God has regrets?

It is hard to understand the reality: God says, “I regret.” I mean, God knows all things. This didn’t blindside Him. He had to know this event when He chose Saul. Time doesn’t restrict God.

What is clear is that God can be disappointed or grieved when we don’t trust Him. When we do not do what He asks of us, we turn our back on Him.

Samuel spent much time in intercession. He understood the task at hand. He went to Saul. Saul set up a monument for himself. Imagine that.

Samuel came to Saul. And Saul said to him, “Blessed are you of the Lord. I have carried out the word of the Lord.”

1 Samuel 15:13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Look at Saul’s perspective. He did what he thought was the word of the Lord. Samuel asks about the bleating of the sheep. Saul insists he did right by God. It was the people who spared the best of the best for sacrifice to God.

Samuel said,
“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices
as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord?
Obedience is better than sacrifice,
a listening ear than the fat of rams.
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,
and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.
Because you have rejected the word of the Lord,
He has also rejected you from being king.”

1 Samuel 15:22–23 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

One lesson we get from Samuel’s response is clear. Saul’s sin affected his calling from God in a particular office of service. He was rejected from his place as king.

We don’t think much of that, yet it is important. God forgives the sin, yes. But there are consequences.

In this case, Saul’s usage as a vessel of honor was marred by his own disobedience. I am using a specific reference because the clay becomes marred in the Potter’s hands. The Potter then must remold it. It won’t be like it was before (rejected from being king.)

Read the rest of the account. See how Saul confessed his guilt, but God won’t change His mind (the word used is repent.) Eventually, Samuel went with Saul to worship the Lord.

Saul’s sin affected how God would use him; in this case, God could not use him as king anymore. That’s what sin does. It affects how we can be used by God, and it can have devastating consequences.

God wanted Saul to succeed. But Saul didn’t follow God; he succumbed to the pressure of the people who wanted to do something seemingly good.

Thump’m with Bible?

On By TimIn Encouragement, Eternal Security, Matthew 07Leave a comment

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonderful works in Your name?’ But then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from Me, you who practice evil.’

Matthew 7:21–23 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This passage is often cited. It is often used to scare folks, or as I like to put it, ‘thump’m with the Bible.’ Most often, this is used in conjunction with those who claim some obedience, endurance, or perseverance to keep salvation.

Some even use this to point out that people who are truly saved can lose their salvation. It’s an often-used text to prove that. However, that simply cannot be true. Jesus clearly states, “I never knew you.” That statement excludes Him knowing someone as saved and them walking away from it. It cannot happen.

If you don’t understand… A saved person cannot lose salvation. It is testified to right there.

There is another sobering truth presented here. This passage is clearly about people who never came to Jesus in faith, but they do come to Him to show their works. These folks cling to their shiny trinkets, the prophesying, casting out demons, and the good things they did. It’s as if they are trying to trade or buy their way into the kingdom.

Jesus says that doesn’t work, “I never knew you.”

But… Do you understand what else is in those “good works?”

Depending upon your obedience to get to heaven is a good work. As is enduring and persevering in the midst of trials and persecution. Even depending on these things to keep being saved sets aside the work of Jesus.

What counts is the personal relationship with Jesus. He needs to know you. And you need to know Him.

As You have given Him authority over all flesh, He will give eternal life to all whom You have given Him. This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.

John 17:2–3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is no other Way to heaven but by resting in Him. It’s not working. It’s not doing good things. It’s not persevering.

You need to know Jesus so He knows you.

The Christmas Star

On By TimIn 2 Corinthians 6, ExhortationLeave a comment

Some of us were excited to see what is dubbed “the Christmas Star.” Jupiter and Saturn moved close together to appear as one ‘star.’ The ancients called the planets wandering stars because of the observable movement they made in the skies.

But did you miss the significance of the timing?

I’m not talking about it happening on the winter solstice, or so very close to the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus. I am talking about the fleeting glimpse any of us are able to get of it.

To see it, one had to look in the southwestern sky, for one night only. And that was about an hour after sunset. It was there hanging low in the sky. It would remain visible, setting a few hours later.

That is the small glimmer of our lives here on earth as compared to eternity. It’s too short. The most important thing to understand about that shortness, salvation is available here and now.

For He says: “In an acceptable time I have listened to you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.”

2 Corinthians 6:2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Now is that acceptable time. You’re reading this. Before the apostle made that declaration, he wrote these words.

So from now on we do not regard anyone according to the flesh. Yes, though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet we do not regard Him as such from now on. Therefore, if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things have passed away. Look, all things have become new. All this is from God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their sins against them, and has entrusted to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us. We implore you in Christ’s stead: Be reconciled to God. God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

2 Corinthians 5:16–21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It was written to believers. Yet if you’re not a believer, there is an important message for you.

Do you feel as if God is far away, or He doesn’t listen to you?

In the verses above, Paul tells how God is already reconciled to each of us in Jesus. But we have a responsibility to be reconciled to Him. First, we have to believe He’s there. Then that He’s listening and ready for us to come to Him. You must come to Him in faith, acknowledging your need for Him. It is Jesus Christ who established that reconciliation, and it’s only because of what He did that you can even talk to God.

You can reach out to Him now. You can ask Him to save you, forgive you of your sins, and live in you. Life is too short. You might not ever get another moment like this.

Just like that star. A flashing light in the evening sky quickly disappears over the horizon. As does the opportunity to be reconciled to God.

Go Your Way

On By TimIn Acts 09, Daily Walk, Encouragement, ExhortationLeave a comment

A disciple named Ananias was in Damascus. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.”
He said, “Here I am, Lord.”

Acts 9:10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Here I am.

There is no other way to answer the Lord when He calls, at least for those who love Him. Many of us wait for that call. Sometimes, it is subtle; other times, not so much. For Ananias, it was the latter. He trusts his Lord and awaits his assignment.

Little did he know beforehand…

The Lord said to him, “Rise and go to Straight Street, and inquire at Judas’ house for someone named Saul of Tarsus, for he is praying, and has seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he may see again.”

Acts 9:11–12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

God is asking him to go meet a man whom he has never met, yet knows of his zealous reputation. It’s not good for him and his friends. God has appointed Ananias. Shown Saul who to expect. He gives clear instruction on how to identify Saul and what to do then.

answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how many evil things he has done to Your saints at Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”

Acts 9:13–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

What does one do in this situation?

Being asked to put yourself in a dangerous serving situation.

God desires to restore a man and has chosen Saul for a particular way to serve Him. Ananias knows the man is bad news for those of the way, as they called Christianity then. That dangerous man Saul also has the authority to put believers in fetters. Yet God’s instructions are clear. Go your way.

He appointed Ananias as he did Saul. It’s just like God to care for Ananias as much as He does for Saul. God will gently encourage Ananias to go the way assigned to him so that Saul can take the path he’s assigned.

But the Lord said to him, “Go your way. For this man is a chosen vessel of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the sons of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for My name’s sake.”
Then Ananias went his way and entered the house. Putting his hands on him, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the way as you came, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he could see again. And he rose up and was baptized. When he had eaten, he was strengthened.

Acts 9:15–19 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Ananias’ trepidation disappeared at that. Look at how he greets Saul as brother Saul. He did as God asked him to do, and Saul’s sight returned.

It says he was strengthened. In the midst of his blindness, Saul was being shown what he must suffer for Jesus. He’s living through it all beforehand with Jesus as his only guide. It must have been daunting.

God made good on His first promises to Saul. He showed Saul all that his life would cost to do as God wanted. When his sight returned, he set to the task. He was baptized. He then ended his fast.

I can imagine that Saul was shown all that he must suffer beforehand so that in those moments, he would know that the suffering being experienced is really light and momentary. Jesus was with him beforehand to help Saul be prepared. He is also with him in the midst of the affliction.

Ananias seems to get an honorable mention here. Especially in light of the future deeds of Saul. Have you considered the integral part Ananias had in Saul’s ministry?

What Paul set out to do, being called by God, is shared by Ananias. Not for any glory other than that of Jesus. Ananias believed Jesus. He did as Jesus asked him to do. The Gospel has gone to the end of the earth because of it.

Sometimes our tasks from God seem daunting, or maybe even menial. We may want to shy away from them for those reasons. Be encouraged by the obedience of Ananias. He is part of the foundation of Paul’s ministry.

You might be stuck inside with limitations on mobility, but you can still have a great Kingdom impact. You can pray. You can encourage others. Did I mention you can pray?

Something as simple as standing in the gap for someone else can lead to an influence far greater than can be imagined. Pray for an evangelist, your neighbor, your family… Even a stranger you’ve never met. God can change the world because of your intercession, just as He did with Ananias.

He Won’t Turn His Face from You

On By TimIn 2 Chronicles 30Leave a comment

Because if you return to the Lord, your brothers and children will find compassion before those who have taken them captive, in order to return you to this land. For the Lord your God is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn His face from you if you all return to Him.

2 Chronicles 30:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

These are part of the last lines of a decree sent from Hezekiah to all of Israel. Hezekiah was the impetus for Judah to repent toward God. He extended the offer to all of Israel.

For those that think that the God presented in the Old Testament is not the same God in the New… Look at that last line.

He will not turn His face from you if you all return to Him.

That was a plea to the nation to change. Yet in it, the compassion and mercy of God toward humanity is ever-present.

Dissipation Leads to Apathy

On By TimIn Last Days, Salvation, Zephaniah 1Leave a comment

At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish the men who are settled on their lees, who say in their heart “The Lord will not do good, nor will He do evil.”

Zephaniah 1:12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is the prophet Zephaniah speaking to Judah. He is speaking of things to happen in the future because of Judah’s worship of other gods. Like all prophecy, don’t think single prediction. We are given the pattern for the sign. There is a practice drill for the sign first. It is likely to come in the short-term future. While the ultimate complete sign will come in full time.

Judah is ruled by King Josiah. He brought many reforms, and God recognized his tender heart toward the things of God. The setting is before the invasion from Babylon. God spoke that it was sure to happen but was to be forestalled until Josiah was gathered to his fathers.

I give the background for context. But I want to look at something specific. The important phrase is “the men who are settled on their lees.” It is better translated as men who have their senses dulled by alcohol. It is written to show that despite all of God’s warnings of impending doom, there are those who won’t and don’t believe that He will do anything at all. Things will just continue to go as they are.

We know from elsewhere in the Old Testament that Jerusalem was indeed invaded; God did exactly what He said. This is despite the apathy and dissipation brought on by booze. The drink addled their intellect. All transgression does that. We read clearly in Romans 1 that it suppresses the knowledge of God.

So What?

Well, here’s an application.

Consider the US and how far we’ve drifted from a true morality in the last many decades. We’ve had a bit of respite with a king who is attempting to make reforms. Yet there is a pervasive pall over the land and the world, for that matter. Will God move at all?

I’m not saying the US is in this prophecy, nor is it meant for us. But there are many who have grown dull to thinking clearly. And it’s not limited to our leaders. It’s done by imbibing regularly of the decadence of the culture.

Such things work to suppress the knowledge of God. We take the trinkets of the culture, including real intoxicants like booze and drugs, among other things. These lead some to think God isn’t going to do anything by taking the right edges off of reality.. He’s not sent judgment for our foibles, whether personal or national. In other words, God becomes impotent.

That pall of apathy still pervades. It’s so bad it has even entered into local churches. It is a challenge to find teaching on the signs of the times. And there are those. They are not signs as in prophecy being fulfilled. They are on the horizon before us, casting their shadows that can be seen. They herald something foreboding, much like the wail of a klaxon.

Time is Short

Some of us hear. Don’t let the dainties and delicacies of the culture catch you off-guard. The President can’t save you from the time to come. Neither will the right Supreme Court justice do it. These tend to be just distractions.

Don’t get me wrong. These things can be avenues of reform and even revival. They may even provide a small time of respite. We ought to be working toward that. But sharpen the witness; be ready to speak of the love of God even as His tender mercies were offered to Josiah.

One only gets so many trips around the sun, and then there is a day of reckoning. Don’t be apathetic. God might not move in the way you want Him to do. But He is working.

Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed swiftly, the heart of the sons of men is fully set to do evil.

Since one who sins may do evil a hundred times and extend his life, I also have experienced that it will be good for those who fear God when they have reverence before Him. But it will not be well for the wicked, and he will not prolong his days, like a shadow, because he does not fear before God.

Ecclesiastes 8:11–13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The shortness of the hour is glaringly apparent. He loves you and is patiently waiting for you. But your time is limited. Use it wisely. (If you want to know how to use it wisely, DM me.)

A Child is Born, a Son is Given

On By TimIn Creation, Daily Walk, Encouragement, Eternal Security, Freedom, Heaven, Isaiah 09, Jesus, Prophecy, Reconciliation, Resurrection, Salvation, The CrossLeave a comment

Here’s something that has occupied the spare processing cycles in my brain when the screen saver is active. In other words, there is something that I have been considering deeply.

For unto us a child is born,
unto us a son is given,
and the government shall be upon his shoulder.
And his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is one of those memory verses I learned from years of listening to Handel’s Messiah. In that first line is a distinction that is easy to overlook. A child is born, and a son is given. It is a prophetic announcement of the birth of Jesus. A child would be born to us humans. Not just any child, but a Son would be given. That Son would be unique. This announcement clearly shows that Jesus is God, not that He came from God.

In a discussion on the Godhead I just perused, I again pondered this idea. This God-Man… This Son, or Word, that was given to us. The interesting part of the conversation prompted me to write my thoughts down and share them.

The discussion was over the Son or Word and whether saying He is begotten by God somehow darkens the idea of His existence from “eternity past.” It’s precisely what derives from the idea of being begotten means, and sort of considers the hypostatic union. That is the union of God and man that is Jesus.

I want to give a foundation from here. This is what God says of Himself in the final chapters of the Old Testament.

For I am the Lord, I do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed.

Malachi 3:6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no change or shadow of turning. Of His own will He brought us forth with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.

James 1:17–18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

From these two witnesses, it is clear that God doesn’t change. The writer of Hebrews adds to this.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever.

Hebrews 13:8 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

How does a God Who doesn’t change incarnate?

It sort of intrigues me that the God Who clearly says He is the same and doesn’t change somehow put on humanity.

It is precisely that idea that I think is too simplistic of an explanation. If He puts on humanity, He changes. Or maybe that doesn’t count as a change.

God has a Unique Relationship with Humans

I think it goes back to something foundational.

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the livestock, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”
So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

Genesis 1:26–27 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This idea of God making us in His image. What is that, really?

I know one of my favorite Bible nerds says we are imagers. Meaning we get to make God known to others in unique ways.

What if this image is something profound, like it is something that is really a part of God?

No… I am not drifting off into pantheism or panentheism.

I’m not saying we are God. Yet there is something more here. When you read the Bible, you’re going to read some things that you might be tempted to glance over.

Beloved, now are we children of God, and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.

1 John 3:2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is something so spectacular reserved for humanity. It cannot be put into words.

For those whom He foreknew, He predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom He predestined, He also called; and those whom He called, He also justified; and those whom He justified, He also glorified.

Romans 8:29–30 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It’s this imager-thing. We are made in His image initially and will be conformed to His image. There are other texts that reiterate these ideas, like being a joint-heir with Jesus.

Jesus even spoke of this in some of His last words before the crucifixion.

I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word, that they may all be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You. May they also be one in Us, that the world may believe that You have sent Me. I have given them the glory which You gave Me, that they may be one even as We are one: I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfect in unity, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

John 17:20–23— Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I don’t think we can even begin to ponder what is in store for each of us who loves Jesus.

Live Like Jesus

On By TimIn 1 Peter 03, Daily Walk, Encouragement, Jesus, SanctificationLeave a comment

Who is he who will harm you if you follow that which is good?

1 Peter 3:13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is a rhetorical question. One that Peter asks, knowing the obvious answer. For us believers, as the previous citation of Psalms 34 teaches—the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and He’s set His face against those who do evil. Considering that, there is nobody that can really harm us if we’re doing good.

It’s About Perspective.

In other words, we are to set our minds ahead, just as Jesus did. It is easy to see a simple explanation. Suffer here to live there, which is far better than living here to suffer there.

But even if you suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. “Do not be afraid of their terror, do not be troubled.”

1 Peter 3:14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

When we do good and suffer for it, there is a blessing in that. Peter cites Isaiah 8:12 to bolster the truth that for the believer, eternity is secure. It is our real home. Remember, earlier he says we are aliens and refugees in this world. We should not partake of its lusts.

There is nothing in this world from which we ought to be afraid. It’s the next world where we reside already. This is inherent as Peter discusses this. He uses the dichotomy of flesh and spirit. We would die in the flesh. But live in the spirit. We ought not to live in the flesh and die in the spirit.

Be Ready.

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts. Always be ready to give an answer to every man who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, with gentleness and fear.

1 Peter 3:15 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The expectation here is to be ready. Whether we are a newfound believer or not, we all ought to be able to give an answer to anyone who asks.

Given this era and the tendencies of the culture, suffering is right here in these sorts of discussions. Often the God-deniers would attempt to easily twist us up with all sorts of controversies. Their hope is that we will lose our cool. But we are encouraged to learn to give an answer with gentleness. That is, to suffer under their needling.

We are to set aside the Lord in our hearts. This is to know that we have a ready-made sanctuary from where we can rest. It’s always in us as the Spirit of God dwells in us. Understand that. Rest in that. Even when being asked the most daunting of questions or confronting the most difficult of challenges—it is our conduct that brings shame to those who would accuse. Not the eloquent and erudite answers we might give.

Have a good conscience so that evildoers who speak evil of you and falsely accuse your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, that you suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

1 Peter 3:16–17 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Peter has circled back to this juxtaposition of living it up here while in the flesh only to suffer in the next life. That is as opposed to suffering here to live in the next life. The latter is far better than the first.

In other words, there is no amount of suffering that can happen to you in this fleshly body that can even begin to compare to the suffering coming to those who do evil.

Live like Jesus

For Christ also has once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but made alive by the Spirit, by whom He also went and preached to the spirits in prison, who in times past were disobedient, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.

1 Peter 3:18–20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is a long sentence to digest. Jesus once suffered for sins. Being just, He died for the unjust. He put Himself in the flesh and made Himself subservient to even death. By His death, that suffering once for sins, He satisfied the wages of sin. (The wages of sin being death, not an eternity in Hell.) This provides a respite from judgment due for sin. That is, sudden and sure death, which is often alluded to as being cut off.

That He Might Bring Us to God.

It is not an automatic thing. There is a tacit understanding in that statement that each of us has a responsibility to come to God. This is the long-suffering of God.

He has put up with all sorts of evil and wickedness from the foundation of the world. It surely grieves Him. Yet He subjected Himself to that same evil, and even died. For what cause may be a question on the mind. It’s for us humans… You, me… All of us.

He suffers through the grief we all give Him, waiting patiently for the maximum number of folks to be saved. He gently asks us to do the same, and even gives us provision to do just that.

He Was Made Alive by the Spirit.

And that is how we are made alive. It’s by the Spirit. Of course, as believers, He indwells us; that’s the provision I spoke of previously. But it is by the same power in Jesus’ resurrection that we are made alive. Remember how Paul said it.

If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
But now is Christ risen from the dead and become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.

1 Corinthians 15:19–20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It’s the resurrection. It’s the Spirit life that’s important.

He Went and Preached.

Jesus went and preached to the spirits in prison. Most scholars agree that Jesus descended into Sheol, the abode of the dead. There is some disagreement on who the spirits are. Some say it is the dead people, good and evil. Others say it was to preach to those real fallen angels who are locked in chains until judgment that their plan to overthrow God didn’t work.

Let me explain succinctly. Since the fall, when God promised to destroy the enemy by the seed of the woman, Satan has sought to prevent that from happening. Before the flood, Satan ensured evil was rampant, knowing God would have to judge that generation. The goal was to destroy humanity. Thus destroying the advent of the Savior. Yet evil was so bad, God did have to judge.

So God said to Noah, “The end of all flesh is come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence because of them.

Genesis 6:13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

When the promise of the seed was given to Abram, Satan had a people to destroy. He set in motion all sorts of ways to waylay Abraham’s lineage to prevent the Anointed One from being born.

When the Messiah came, Satan knew it. He persuaded Herod to put babies to death in order to stop God’s plan. When Jesus began ministry as John baptized Him, Satan met with Jesus. He (Satan) knew immediately Who Jesus is, the very God Who made him. In his mind, Jesus had come into his domain. Satan had the power there; he could kill God and cement his dominion over creation.

How that plan backfired with the resurrection! For all those minions of the evil one in prison and held for judgment, Jesus did go and preach. He assured them by showing them Himself alive in the Spirit that they had made a grave error.

When you read the Scriptures, note how we never here another word ascribed to Satan after the resurrection of Jesus.

A Way of Rescue.

Just as God had planned to destroy the evildoers, He had a way of rescue in mind for Noah and his family. They were saved through water.

It is with this imagery that Peter continues.

Figuratively this is like baptism, which also saves us now. It is not washing off the dirt from the body, but a response to God from a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him.

1 Peter 3:21–22 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Figuratively… Peter is not going to say that the water saves. Think of the dichotomy that has been presented before, the difference between living in flesh and living in spirit.

It’s not that water baptism saves us. Water can only wash dirt off of the body. It is the same Spirit that made Jesus alive that makes us alive. It is the one baptism, that immersion in the Spirit, that rescues us.

Figuratively, it’s a picture given to us by baptism: being buried in the grave and rising in newness of life. It’s a proclamation of the good triumphing over evil. It’s a reminder to everyone looking on that God surely saves. Yet as He did with Noah in times before, He saves us now.

It’s by pledge of a good conscience that we do water baptism. It’s symbolic. It’s a reminder of reality. In a way, it’s spiritual warfare. Every single time someone is baptized in water, it’s a visual reminder of the promises of God to both the believer and the scoffer. Even to the fallen angels that are of the principalities and powers that are now subjected to Jesus.

Time is short for those who do evil, and the coming incarceration is inevitable. There is a time of escape for humans. And just as God called Noah and his family into the ark and left the door open for seven days, He is still waiting for you to believe; to cease living in the flesh, and to live in the Spirit, for Him.

You are the only one responsible for how you will spend eternity.

Love Life and See Good Days

On By TimIn 1 Peter 03, Encouragement, LoveLeave a comment

For “He who would love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

1 Peter 3:10–12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is a simple prescription from the Great Physician on how to live life. Peter is quoting it from Psalms 34:12-16. It could be seen as the key to a long life, but that would be reading an idea into the text that I don’t think is there. We are to love life and see good days.

But what if Peter is talking to those whose patient endurance salts the Earth?

Since the encouragement, Peter has offered centers on how to live righteously in long-suffering. That idea would carry into why he quotes this from the Psalter. As we believers walk in Jesus, we are to consistently try to avoid evil. In so doing, we will gradually reduce the evil in the world, being a good influence toward Godliness. Then to be a blessing to the world, as Jesus Himself is.

Furthermore, if God’s eyes are on the righteous, and He hears their prayers, when we pray for our unsaved friends, we can trust God hears. That alone is a reason to abstain from evil.

It’s the Way You Talk

I cannot help but notice the first emphasis is on the way we speak. It must be important. Fixing the way we talk seems to be the first step in turning away from evil and then doing good. I am reminded of what James is saying.

We all err in many ways. But if any man does not err in word, he is a perfect man and able also to control the whole body.

James 3:2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I need to keep hearing those things. I know in my own self, my tongue is not as tame as I would like, but it is wholly up to me. Yet James tells us that proper speech controls our body. It’s reasonable. Changing the way we speak requires a change in the way we think.

There is another purpose. Maybe because when we speak as we ought, our conscience would have a sure-fire witness of hypocrisy when our doings don’t align with our talking.

I cannot write these words without that prick of the conscience in my own mind. I hear the tsk-tsk in knowing I must (and can) do better. It’s not shaming. Just a gentle encouragement.

Again, me bettering my behavior begins with bettering how I communicate. Bettering how I communicate necessitates a change in thinking. Though… It has a certain benefit for me, as Peter is teaching; the real benefit is for the world and those around me. After all, it is those whom we all serve.

Our Speech has a Cistern from Which to Draw

Jesus taught it this way.

For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

Matthew 12:37 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

These words show how important it is to learn to control what we say. This is the summary of what Jesus said as He answered the Pharisees and those around them. They had just seen Him cast out a demon and said Jesus used the power of the ruler of the demons. Jesus explains how their words are a judgment against them.

He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. Therefore I say to you, all kinds of sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven men. Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, neither in this world, nor in the world to come.

Matthew 12:30–32 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sometimes, this portion of Scripture may be misunderstood. It contains what is called the Unforgivable Sin. Ponder the context as we continue. This entire teaching comes from what these men said about Jesus, especially His works.

He basically tells them that they aren’t with Him! Worse is the fact that they actively work against Him.

Next, look at how Jesus points out that all sorts of behavior would be forgiven. Then we come back to this idea of speaking. Those Pharisees were seemingly speaking against Jesus. Yet He is pointing out the deeper truth: they were speaking against the Holy Spirit, belittling their unbelief.

Keep these ideas in mind as we continue.

It’s Up to You

Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree corrupt and its fruit corrupt. For the tree is known by its fruit.

Matthew 12:33 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This statement will be elaborated upon by Jesus. Succinctly, He is telling them something profound. It is weird to expect what you are doing is pleasing when what you think and believe is not. Or, what you do is righteous when what you believe is not.

These Pharisees were the leaders. The ones who were to teach the people of God about God. Their fruit wasn’t commensurate with what they knew deep down. The facade they presented was this vibe of Holy men. The fruit (what they said) was corrupt.

Jesus is telling them to fix that! In other words, to live what they believe, whether it’s truth or not.

Or… change what they believe to bring forth good fruit.

O generation of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things. And an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

Matthew 12:34–35 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In this very instance, what those so-called holy men said revealed what they believed.

It’s the same for us. We can tell what we believe by the way we talk, especially if it is about Jesus. In the same fashion, we can begin to correct our behavior by changing the way we communicate. We change the way we communicate by acknowledging and believing the truth as witnessed to us by the Holy Spirit. The theological word for that is repentance.

Jesus is the foundation for everything. He is the very God these Pharisees purported to teach about. His presence in their midst and their reaction to what He did revealed the lack of treasure in their hearts.

Read the conclusion to the matter.

But I say to you that for every idle word that men speak, they will give an account on the Day of Judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

Matthew 12:36–37 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It Starts with What We Believe.

Just as Peter is saying up until this point—what we believe ought to change our entire pursuit of living. Knowing that our eternity is secure and we lose nothing there, we can choose the righteous way. All the while living in liberty. In other words, make the tree and its fruit good.

Not to do what we want, but to do what we ought until that becomes what we want.

In Conclusion.

I want to circle back around to that unforgivable sin. Many have concerns over what it is, and if they’ve done it. My hope and prayer is that the Holy Spirit would lead you to see. It is clearly tied to unbelief… The abject lack of treasure (belief in Truth) in the heart.

If one doesn’t believe the witness of the Holy Spirit, such is not forgiven in this life or the next. What is done here has eternal consequences.

The Demands of the Adversary

On By TimIn Encouragement, Luke 22, Second Chance, Spiritual WarfareLeave a comment

Then the Lord said, “Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has demanded to have you to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have repented, strengthen your brothers.”

Luke 22:31–32 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In just a quick perusal today, I encountered this. Sometimes, when thinking of other things and they are set aside, a quick glance at Scripture will provide some insight. I think it rather poignant, too. That is, given the posts of late centering on Peter’s first epistle.

Anyway… It was a discussion on Job one night. Someone had made a remark that God gave permission to Satan to test Job. I shook my head in a clear way to acknowledge that it wasn’t true. The person making the assertion insisted it was true. Let’s see if it is.

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and the Adversary also came among them. And the Lord said to the Adversary, “From where have you come?”
Then the Adversary answered the Lord, saying, “From roaming on the earth, and from walking up and down on it.”
And the Lord said to the Adversary, “Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and an upright man, who fears God, and avoids evil?”

Job 1:6–8 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sometimes our English translations don’t transmit the entirety of the thought. In some translations, there are translators’ notes. These are included to help understand what is being conveyed. In this case, it would be easy to think the Adversary was just casually walking around looking at things. Not only that, but it one might think it was God Who would bring up the idea of testing Job to the Adversary.

That’s not what’s there. The Hebrew phrase translated have you considered literally means have you set your heart to my servant Job.

It’s like the Adversary is demanding some sort of right. Go back to what Jesus said to Peter. Satan is demanding to sift you. The Adversary demands his rights.

Furthermore, Jesus didn’t give permission to Satan. Satan was demanding what was rightfully his. Jesus prayed for Peter to not succumb to the test. That’s simply because we really are no match for the enemy. Jesus knew that. He is our Advocate. He intercedes for us.

Look what He said to Peter next: “And when you have repented, strengthen your brothers.”

We are no match for the enemy. He may have rights, but he also has boundaries and cannot exceed those.

Then the Adversary answered the Lord, saying, “Has Job feared God for nothing? Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. But stretch out Your hand now, and touch all that he has, and he will curse You to Your face.”

Job 1:9–11— Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

You might think it weird how the Adversary demands that God bring calamity to Job. It didn’t happen. But what follows is God saying to the Adversary, “You have rights to all that is his.”

That comes from the fall. Satan wrested dominion of the creation from the one it was given to, Adam. Therefore, all that Job had was part of the fallen world to which the Adversary has rights. Since the cross, those rights are in the process of being revoked permanently.

Jesus told Peter. “And when you have repented.” He was telling Peter of the victory that Jesus would finish shortly. A remedy for Peter falling prey.

Don’t give in to the idea that God has to give permission to the Adversary for him to bother you. He has rights. When we are in sin, that is where he works. But there is a way out of the rights he has.

And when you have repented….