Jesus Chic

Posted on August 25, 2016 by Bryan Hodge
(written in 2004)   
On Monday, May 10, 2004, Fox News ran a piece on “Jesus Chic is Latest Fashion Trend.”  They reported that since the release of “The Passion of the Christ,” L.A. boutiques have been “jumping on the Jesus bandwagon.”  Belt buckles, T-shirts, belts, caps, you name it, are being marketed with Jesus slogans.  One L.A. company is making a shirt that says, “Jesus is my homeboy,” and another that says, “Mary is my homegirl.”  Madonna has been seen sporting both.  Pamela Anderson and Lara Flynn Boyle has been seen in the Jesus shirt.  Ashton Kutcher has been seen with the Jesus ballcap on.
What the world really needs to see more than a Jesus t-shirt on our body is Jesus living in our lives today (1 Peter 3:3-4).  Christ needs to be formed in us (Galatians 4:19).  We need to have His mind (Philippians 2:5).  We need to follow His example (1 Peter 2:21).  He needs to live within us (Galatians 2:20).
Putting on of a Jesus t-shirt will not overcome a corrupt heart (Matthew 23:27-28).  Let us be clothed with Christ (Galatians 3:27; Romans 13:14).
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Peace Series: Let The Peace of God Rule

Posted on August 22, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.  And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful” (Colossians 3:14-15).

Three things are essential to congregational peace.  First, love is “the bond of perfection” (NKJV) or “the bond of unity” (NASB).  Christians are to “put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another…  but above all these things put on love.  James Burton Coffman comments, “The thought here appears to be not that of adding love as an additional Christian grace, but rather that of making love the cement that holds everything else in place” (studylight.org).  John Kackelman Jr. differs a bit commenting, “‘Above all’ could be rendered ‘on the top of all.’  Using the clothing metaphor we find that love is the final piece of clothing to be put on.  It is to be like the ‘belt’ or ‘girdle’ which bound the loose flowing robes of the first century dress.  The only way that the other seven articles of clothing can be secured on the believer’s person is by the binding of them with the girdle of love.  Love completes the dress of the believer.” (Kackelman, Studies in Colossians, pp. 111-112).  Both commentators understand love to be that which holds the other traits (tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering:bearing and forgiving) in place.

Second, the peace of God is to rule the hearts.  The message of the gospel is called “the gospel of peace” (Romans 10:15; Ephesians 6:15).  God’s word must have rule in our hearts.  The word “rule” (brabeuo) means: “to act as an umpire” (Vine’s); “to be an umpire; to decide, determine; to direct, control, rule” (Thayer).  Alan Adams comments, “Much of the turmoil which plagues individual Christians, and consequently the ‘one body,’ come as a result of people deciding to call their own balls and strikes, fouls and fairs” (ed. Garland Robinson, The Church at Colosse, p. 151).  God’s word should be regarded as our objective standard (not merely “I feel,” or “I think”).  It teaches peace (e.g. Matthew 5:9; Romans 12:18; 14:19; 2 Timothy 2:22; Hebrews 12:14, etc.).  It instructs us how to deal with issues between brethren (e.g. Matthew 5:23-24; 6:14-15; 18:15-17; 18:21-35; Luke 17:3-4; Romans 14:14-23; 16:17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; 8:1-13; 10:23-33; 2 Corinthians 2:6-11; Titus 3:10, etc.). It is to be our standard and rule book.

Third, thankfulness is needed.  The word “thanks” appears in some form in every chapter of Colossians, a total of six times in the book (Colossians 1:3; 1:12; 2:7; 3:15; 3:17; 4:2).  An attitude of gratitude and appreciation will go far in maintaining peace.  We should be thankful to God (e.g. Colossians 1:12-14; 1 Timothy 1:12).  We should be thankful to others (e.g. Romans 16:3-4).  Consider the following words: “Gratitude puts situations into perspective.  When we see the good as well as the bad, it becomes more difficult to complain and stay stuck.  Gratitude helps us realize what we have.  This can lessen our need for wanting more all the time.  Gratitude strengthen relationships, improves health, reduces stress, and in general makes us happier… When Mark Twain said ‘I can live two months on a good compliment,’ he only told half the story.  While the person who receives the praise enjoys feeling noticed and valued (and is motivated to do more of the same), the giver can bask in the connection.  With every compliment given, a bond is strengthened, trust is built and conversation encouraged.  Potent stuff!” (unstuck.com). “And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).

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Peace Series: Peace Surpassing Understanding

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts, and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

Life is not always easy.  The wording “be anxious” (merimnao) refers to having “a distracted care” (Vine’s).  The root word (merizo) means “to draw in different directions, distract” (Vine’s).  There are difficulties in life which can distract us from what is spiritually important.

We need to stay focused (Matthew 6:33).  It is important that we continue to trust in God.  Solomon instructed, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). Job said, “Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him” (Job 13:15). Paul said, “For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach,  because we trust in the living God…”(1 Timothy 4:10)

Those who trust Him have certain characteristics.  (1) They continue to pray (Philippians 4:6).  No, God does not always grant their petition (2 Corinthians  12:7-9).  They trust His wisdom.  They know that God is able to deliver them, and choose to serve Him whether He does or not (cf. Daniel 3:17-18).  (2)  They have an inner peace that the world does not understand (Philippians 4:7).  This peace of God guards their hearts and minds.  Remember that Paul was in prison at this time.  The ESV Study Bible comments, “Paul’s use of ‘guard’ may reflect his own imprisonment or the status of Philippi as a Roman colony with a military garrison.  In either case, it is not Roman soldiers who guard believers – it is the peace of God almighty.  Because God is sovereign and in control,  Christians can entrust all their difficulties to him, who rules over all creation and who is wise and loving in all His ways (Romans 8:31-39).  An attitude of thanksgiving contributes directly to this inward peace” (ESV Study Bible, p. 2287).

“When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea-billows roll; what ever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, ‘It is well, it is well with my soul’” (Song: It Is Well With My Soul by Horatio G. Spafford).

The man who wrote this song knew personal loss.  In 1871, The Great Chicago fire destroyed nearly all of his material possessions.  In 1873, his wife and their four children were on the passenger ship Ville Du Havre, when it collided with another ship and sank.  His wife survived, but all four children died.  Horatio Spafford wrote this song in 1876, despite these tragedies.

The original second verse of the song read, “Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, let this blest assurance control.  The Christ has regarded my helpless estate and hath shed His own blood for my soul” (Max Wheeler, Reflections on our Hymns, p. 10).  If one is right with God, all will be OK.  “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).  “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)

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Peace Series: Not Food and Drink

Posted on August 16, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“The Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

The context concerns the eating of clean and unclean food (Romans 14:14).  The church at Rome was composed of Jews (Romans 16:3 cf. Acts 18:2-3; Romans 16:7; Romans 16:11a cf. Romans 11:1) and Gentiles (Romans 1:13; Romans 11:13).  This was a transitional time for the Jews.  Many were still struggling with their old Jewish practices.  They were not comfortable eating certain things.  The Gentiles did not have the same history of dietary practices.

The Old Testament contained certain dietary laws (see Leviticus 11; Deuteronomy 14).  When Paul wrote the letter to the church at Rome, these dietary laws were no longer in force (Acts 10:9-16; Romans 14:14a; more would be written later – 2 Timothy 4:4-5).

However, not all Jews were convinced.  They had not arrived at personal faith (conviction) that it was permissible for them to eat.  Moreover, it is a sin to do anything – if one cannot do that thing in faith or a good conscience before God (Romans 14:23; 1 Corinthians 8:7, 9-13).

How should the Gentiles handle the scruples of these Jews?  Should they mock and ridicule them?  No.  Should they pressure and tempt them to violate their consciences?  No.  Loving consideration should be given to others (Romans 14:14-15).  In optional matters, that is – in things that do not have to be done to be pleasing to God (cf. 1 Corinthians 8:8), it is wise to ask: (1) Will this edify and help save others? (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:23-24).  (2) Will this unnecessarily offend or cause others to stumble?  (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:32-33; 1 Corinthians  8:13; Romans 14:21).  (3) Will this help maintain peace?  (cf. Romans 14:19).  (4) Will this help bring glory to God?  (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:31).

It is important for Christians to remember, and be able to distinguish between  what things are important, and what things are  not.  The Kingdom of God (the church) is not about individuals pursuing their preferences in food and drink. Here are some things which are important: (1) The Kingdom of God is about righteousness.  The word is used in different ways in the Bible.  It is used of right doing (e.g. Acts 10:34-35), salvation and the plan of salvation (e.g. Galatians 2:21; Romans 4:1-8; Romans 10:1-3), and a right standing before God (e.g. Luke 1:6; Romans 4:3 cf. Genesis 15:6; Philippians 3:8-9).  Christians should be focused on doing God’s will, maintaining a right relationship with God, and helping to save others.  (2) The Kingdom of God is about peace.  Christians should make great efforts to live peaceably with others  (cf. Romans 12:18; Romans 14:19; Hebrews 12:14).  (3) The Kingdom of God is about joy.  Christians have hope.  We can “rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1-2).  We also should want others to have this same joy and hope.  Let us remember and distinguish between what things are important, and what things are not.  Paul wrote, “If food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, least I make my brother stumble” (1 Corinthians 8:13).

“Therefore, let us pursue the things which makes for peace and things by which one may edify another” (Romans 14:19).

The word “pursue” (dioko) means “hasten, run, press on… strive for, seek after, pursue… strive for, seek after, aspire to something” (B-A-G); “to run swiftly in order to catch some person or thing, to run after… to pursue i.e. to seek eagerly, earnestly endeavor”; “literally ‘pursuing’ (as one would a calling)…” (Vine’s).

Christians should, in optional matters, follow the course which makes for peace and leads to edification.  Robin Haley remarks, “Here is every member’s duty with the Kingdom of Christ.  The Lord’s church does not need ‘freedom fighters’ because our brother’s soul is much more important than my freedoms” (Haley, A Commentary on the Book of Romans, pp. 246-247).  Remember that we are speaking of optional matters. This is not speaking of accepting sinful practices or compromising on obligatory matters for the sake of peace.

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Peace Series: Peace Through Jesus

Posted on August 9, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1-2).

Jesus made possible peace with God.  It is through Jesus: (1) Man can be justified.  Justification may be defined as: the state of one who has been declared to be, or counted as, just or righteous.  Man is justified by the blood of Jesus Christ (Romans 5:9).  (2) Man can enter a state of grace.  The reference is to the state of having received forgiveness of sins (cf. Ephesians 1:7).  (3) Man can have a heavenly hope.  In one sense, He is our hope (1 Timothy 1:1; Colossians 1:27).  He is the basis of our hope.  Christians can joyously live anticipating “the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10).

Man accesses this peace conditionally.  (1) He is justified by faith (Romans 5:1). He must trust God and His plan for salvation (Romans 1:16).  Saving faith is obedient faith (Hebrews 11).  It is not a mere mental assent (James 2:24).  Obedience is required (Hebrews 5:9).   (2) He accesses grace by the faith (Romans 5:2).  The definite article is present in the original language.  The reference is to the message of the New Testament (cf. Acts 6:7; Galatians 1:23; Jude 3).  Personal faith should be based on the objective system of faith, the word of God (cf. Romans 10:17).

“He Himself is our peace, who has made both one and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity” (Ephesians 2:14-16).

He (Jesus Christ) is our (this includes Jew and Gentile) peace.  (1) He provides peace between God and man (Ephesians 2:16).  He through the cross reconciles both (Jew and Gentile) to God.  This reconciliation occurs in one body (church cf. Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:4; 5:23).  The plan was not to reconcile Jew and Gentile in different bodies, but in one body.  (2) He provides peace between man and man (Ephesians 2:14-15).  He has made both (Jew and Gentile) one (cf. Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:11).  He has broken down the middle wall of separation.  This is speaking of the religious distinction between Jew and Gentile.  Wayne Jackson comments, “The imagery possibly was taken from the four-and-a-half-foot wall in the temple are that separated the court of the Gentiles from the sacred area reserved for Jews.  It had death warnings posted at intervals (two of which have been found), forbidding Gentiles to pass beyond (cf. Acts 21:28-29).  The barrier was literally broken with the destruction of the temple in A.D. 70.  In principle, it was broken down with the abolition of the Mosaic system at Calvary.  Others see the symbolism as a reference to the rending of the temple veil at the time of Jesus’ death (Matthew 27:51).  Whatever the background, the language symbolized the fact that the religious wall separating Jews from Gentiles was gone” (Jackson, A New Testament Commentary, pp. 389-390).  Furthermore, He has abolished the enmity.  Thayer comments “by meton(ymy) i.q. cause of enmity.”  He abolished the law of Moses (which separated Jew and Gentile) through the cross.

“And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near.  For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father” (Ephesians 2:17-18).

Jesus preached peace.  He preached it to both those who were afar off (Gentiles cf. Ephesians 2:11-13), and those near (Jews).  Jesus earthly mission was not focused on the Gentiles (Matthew 15:24; Matthew 10:5-6).  However, He did commission the apostles to go make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:20).  It is because of this He can be said to have preached peace to both.

Both (Jew and Gentile) have access to the Father through Jesus.  This access is available by the Spirit.  What does this mean?  Compare Ephesians 2:18, 20 with Ephesians 3:3-6.  Ephesians 2:18, 20 reads, “For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father… having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone.”  Ephesians 3:3-6 reads, “how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, by which when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)… it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel.”  The Holy Spirit revealed the saving message of the gospel of Christ.  The Holy Spirit revealed that this message is for both Jew and Gentile.  We with joy should say, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).

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Peace Series: Glory, Honor, Peace

Posted on August 2, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Who (God – B.H.) ‘will render to each one according to his deeds’: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness – indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek for there is no partiality with God” (Romans 2:6-11).

Judgment is in view.  There is coming a day “When God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ” (Romans 2:16; John 5:22; Acts 17:31; 2 Corinthians 5:10).  Judgment will be fair, without partiality, according to each one’s works (Romans 2:6, 11; Acts 10:34-35; 1 Peter 1:17).

Those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth will be punished.  They “shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His power” (2 Thessalonians 1:9).

Those who live a life doing good and seeking the things above will be rewarded.  They will find: (1) glory (1 Corinthians 2:7; Philippians 3:20-21); (2) honor (John 12:27); (3) immortality [Roy Deaver points out – “Certainly, Paul does not say that if one seeks for one thing God will give him something else.  Rather, God will give him that for which he seeks.  Therefore, glory, honor, incorruption, and peace are constituent elements of eternal life” (Deaver, Romans: God’s Plan For Man’s Righteousness, p. 76).  The Biblical use of “eternal life” includes more than immortality.  It refers to an eternal quality of life]; (4) Peace [Man today can have peace with God through Jesus (Romans 5:1, 9; Ephesians 2:17-18)].  Notice that it is a manner of life which is being described.  It is speaking of those “who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality” (Romans 2:7).  “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9).

Garland Elkins summarized the impartiality of God, noting: (1) He declared all under sin (Romans 3:23).  (2) He provided a common Savior for all (John 3:16; Hebrews 2:9).  (3) The same invitation is extended to all (Matthew 11:28-30; Revelation 22:17).  (4) The same conditions of pardon are required of all (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 17:30).  (5) There is one standard of conduct for all (Acts 10:34-35).  (6) There is one common church for all (Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:4; 5:23); (7) In the manner of judging, He will be impartial (1 Peter 1:17).  God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34-35), nevertheless He is a respecter of character (1 Peter 3:12) – [ed. Dub McClish, Studies in Romans, Denton Lectures, pp. 69-70].

“For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.  For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans  8:5-6).

There are two types of people in view.  Some people let their fleshly, carnal appetites and desires dominate their thinking and guide their lives (cf. Ephesians 4:17, 19-20).  Other people have their minds upon spiritual things, and they allow the teachings of the Holy Spirit to guide their lives (cf. Colossians 3:1-2; Psalm 119:104-105, 128).  Roy Deaver comments, “To ‘walk after the flesh’ is to be concerned about, to be mindful of, desirous of fleshly things, temporal things – with no real concern about spiritual things, things of God.  To ‘walk after the Spirit’ is to be concerned about, to be mindful of, desirous of, spiritual things, things of God, things sacred, divine, eternal…” (Deaver, Romans: God’s Plan for Man’s Righteousness, pp. 259-260).

Do you want peace with God?  Then, set your mind of spiritual things.  Decide to live according to His will, and not your on fleshly desires.  Make Him King and not self.

“There’s a great day coming, A great day coming, There’s a great day coming by and by; When the saints and the sinners shall be parted right and left, Are you ready for that day to come?” (song: There’s a Great Day Coming by Will L. Thompson).

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Peace Series: My Peace I Give You

Posted on July 28, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

What is “peace”?  Webster provides the following definitions: “1.  A state of tranquility or quiet: as a. freedom from civil disturbance; b. a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom; 2. freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions; 3. harmony in personal relations; 4.a. a state or period of mutual concord between governments; b. a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity;  5. – used interjectionally to ask for silence or calm or as a greeting or farewell.” (www.marriam-webster.com).  Rush Limbaugh concisely says, “Peace is the absence of threat and the presence of justice” (www.rushlimbaugh.com/2015/03/18/what_is_your_definition_of_peace).

Most people primarily think of peace as harmony in the world.  They think of peace between men.  They think of peace between governments.

The Bible uses the word “peace” in a variety of ways.  The original word in the New Testament is, the Greek word, eirene.  It is from the root word eiro, meaning “to join.”  The word is used of: (1) harmonious relations between men – Matthew 10:34, Romans 14:19; (2) friendliness – 1 Corinthians 16:11; (3) harmonious relations between nations -Luke 14:2, Acts 12:20; (4) a state of national tranquility – Acts 24:2; (5) Freedom from molestation – Acts 9:31; (6) a sense of rest – Mark 5:34; (7) Order in the state – Acts 24:2; or in the church – 1 Corinthians 14:33; (8) harmonious relations between God and man – Acts 10:36; Ephesians 2:17; (9) the tranquil state of the soul assured of its salvation through Christ – John 16:33; (10) the blessed state of the devout and upright men after death – Romans 2:10 (see Vine’s; Thayer).

Jesus did not offer His followers peace on earth.  He acknowledged “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33).

Jesus did not offer peace as the world offers it (John 14:27).  What does this mean?  It may mean that He did not offer the kind of peace to them that earthly governments provide.  He, by force, would not directly regulate man’s behavior.  Though, He does authorize government to do so (cf. Romans 13:1-ff).  Many think that this means that He did not offer them empty words.  Israelites at meetings and departures wished each other “shalom.”  Matthew Henry comments, “I do not compliment you with ‘Peace be unto you’; no, it is not a mere formality,   but a real blessing” (Matthew Henry’s Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 904).  Adam Clarke comments, “Not as the Jews in empty wishes: not as the people of the world, in empty compliments.  Their salutations and benedictions are generally matters of custom and polite ceremony without desire or design; but I mean what I say; what I wish you, that I give you” (Clarke’s Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 625).

Jesus offers an inward peace which is not based upon external circumstances of this physical life.  Guy Woods comments, “It is significant that the Lord did not say, ‘Ye have overcome the world; therefore, peace is yours’, this blessed promise was theirs because He did it.  It is true that Christians must overcome the world in resisting its allurements and avoiding its temptations, but there must have been this initial triumph over it by our Saviour and Lord; Otherwise, salvation would not have been possible, regardless of any resistance to evil influences.  Thus, the triumph of the Lord was also that of His disciples’.  The verb ‘I have overcome the world,’ is in the perfect tense, completed action with continuing effects.  The Lord’s mission into the world was now nearly over and so certain was it of completion that He could speak of it as already having been accomplished” (Woods, A Commentary on The Gospel According to John, p. 351).  Jesus’ disciples can have an inward peace “which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7), because He has overcome the world!

“Peace, perfect peace, in this dark work of sin: The blood of Jesus whispers peace within/ Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed: To do the will of Jesus – this is rest/ Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows surging round: On Jesus’ bosom naught but calm is found/ Peace, perfect peace, with loved ones far away: In Jesus’ keeping we are safe, and they/ Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown: Jesus we know, and He is on the throne/ It is enough; earth’s struggles soon shall cease, and Jesus call us to heav’n’s peace. (song: Peace, Perfect Peace by Edward H. Bickersteth)

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Circumcision’s Added Benefit

Posted on July 25, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

God told Abraham that circumcision would be “a sign of the covenant “(Genesis 17:11).  God had promised “in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:3), and “you shall be the father of many nations” (Genesis 17:4).  Henry Morris commented, “the emphasis of the covenant, of course, was on the promised seed, and on the abundance of progeny which would accrue to Abraham.  The male sex organ is the remarkable, divinely created vehicle for the transmission of this seed from one generation to another.  The circumcision (“cutting around”) of this channel would thus picture its complete enclosure within God’s protective and productive will” (The Genesis Record, p. 333).  Circumcision was a reminder that through Abraham and his descendants would come nations, and finally a blessing upon all nations (Genesis 12:3; 18:18; 22:18; 26:4; 28:14 cf. Acts 3:25-26).

When Abraham sent his servant to find a wife for Isaac a strange thing occurred.  The servant swore to do his duty by putting his hand under the thigh of Abraham (Genesis 24:9 cf. 47:29).  This seems to be a reminder of the covenant made which was to be fulfilled through the loins of Abraham.

The primary purpose of circumcision is clear. It was a sign of the covenant which was to be fulfilled through the loins of Abraham.

However, there seems to be an added benefit.  S.I. McMillan, in his book, None of These Diseases, writes of the physical value of circumcision.  (1) He cites several studies which show a much lower rate of cervical cancer among women whose mates are circumcised.  He writes of a study in India.  “Although the people there have similar racial background, eat the same types of food (there are some differences B.H.), and live in the same climate and environment, the population is divided into two religious groups (Hindu and Islam, B.H.).  Those who (follow) Mohammed… practice circumcision.  Among that group there is a much lower incident of Cervical cancer than among women of the same race who eat the same food and live in the same environment” (McMillian, None of These Diseases, p.18). He explains, “If the tight unretractable foreskin is not removed, proper cleaning cannot be readily performed (at least not easily B.H.).  As a result, many virulent bacteria, including cancer-producing smegma bacillus, can grow profusely.  During sexual intercourse these bacteria are deposited in the cervix of the uterus, if the mucous membrane of the cervix is intact, little harm results.  However, if lacerations exist, as they frequently do after childbirth, these bacteria can cause considerable irritation.  Since any part of the body which is subjected to irritation is susceptible to cancer, it is perfectly understandable why cervical cancer is likely to develop in women whose mates are not circumcised” (p. 19).  (2) He also writes of penile cancer saying, “These bacteria not only produce cancer in women, but also irritate the male organ and may cause cancer of the penis” (ibid).  He concludes, “We can say that circumcision is an almost perfect prophylaxis against this deadly cancer” (ibid).

While today circumcision is of no religious value (Galatians 5:6; 6:15; Romans 2:28-29; 1 Corinthians 7:18-19; Colossians 3:11), there is still a point to be made.  The point is this: when one follows God’s teachings, there is often an added benefit.  Even though the Israelites may never have understood it at the time, there was an added benefit to circumcision.  God’s commandments are for our good (cf. Deuteronomy 6:24; 10:23; 1 John 5:3).  Often, this good is not just spiritual in nature, but also physical.  For example – when we get rid of envy and hatred we not only are doing what is spiritually right, we may be saving ourselves from potential harm.  “A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones” (Proverbs 14:30).

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Peace Series: Peace or Sword?

Posted on July 21, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Do not think that I came to bring peace but a sword.  For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household‘” (Matthew 10:34-35).

“Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth?  I tell you not at all, but rather division.  For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three.  Father will be against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law” (Luke 12:51-53).

How can this be?  The Messiah was to be the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6-7).  Angels announced Jesus’ birth by saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!” (Luke 2:14).

Jesus’ message, if followed, leads to peace: Peace with God (Romans 5:1), and peace between men (Ephesians 2:14-18).  Christians are taught to be a peaceful people: “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18); “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14); “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (1 Timothy 2:1-2); “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9); “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17).

However, not all follow Jesus’ message.  John W. Haley comments, “A religion of inherent, radical purity could not be propagated in the world without awaking the fierce antagonism of everything impure and evil.  Hence would arise strife and division, bitter conflicts…” (Haley, Alleged Discrepancies, p. 119).  Oliver Greene comments, “When Jesus spoke of sending a sword to divide even the nearest relatives, we understand that He came for the purpose of teaching doctrine which would inevitably lead to this division to which He referred.  These evils were not what Jesus wished for, but they occur because men love darkness rather than light” (Greene, The Gospel According to Matthew, Vol. 2, p. 467).

Why does Jesus say this?  First, He wants us to know that there will be opposition.  Things will not always be easy. Opposition may come even from one’s own family. Second, He is challenging our committment and loyalty. It is in this context that He says – “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.  He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it” (Matthew 10:37-39). While we love our families, our loyalty to Him must surpass our devotion to them, and our desire for peace in our homes.

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Have You Been Circumcised?

Posted on July 18, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through Faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead” (Colossians 2:11-12).

Judaizing teachers, for years, tried to bind physical circumcision on gentile converts to Christianity (cf. Acts 15:1, 5; Galatians 2:1-4; 5:1-4; 6:15; 1 Corinthians 7:18-19; Colossians 2:11-12; 3:10-11).  They were wrong in this (Acts 15:23-29).  “Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing,  but the keeping of the commandments of God is what matters” (1 Corinthians 7:19).  Physical circumcision is not a part of the New Covenant.

However, there is a circumcision which is needed, spiritual circumcision.  This circumcision is performed without hands; meaning – this is something that God does and not man (cf. Daniel 2:34, 45; 8:25; Colossians 2:11-12).

There is a similarity between physical circumcision and spiritual circumcision.  The word “circumcision” literally means to “cut around.”  It refers to an operation to remove something.   The priests of old performed circumcision removing the foreskin of the male organ.  God performs circumcision removing sin.  He performs this operation when one is buried with Christ in baptism.  The same power which raised Jesus from physical death, removes one’s sins and raises one from spiritual death to walk in newness of life (Colossians 2:11-12 cf. 3:1-2; Ephesians 1:20 cf. 2:5-6; Romans 6:4).

Some have appealed to this circumcision illustration to try to defend infant baptism.  Therefore it is worth pointing out some dissimilarities between physical circumcision and spiritual circumcision.  (1) Physical circumcision was performed on Israelite males eight days old (Genesis 17:12; Leviticus 12:3).  The New Testament teaches that baptism is for those who believe (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 8:12; Acts 8:35-39; Acts 18:8).  (2) Physical circumcision was performed only on males (Genesis 17:14; Exodus 12:48).  Baptism is for both men and women (Acts 8:12; Galatians 3:26-28).  (3) Physical circumcision did not make one a Hebrew or an Israelite.  One was born such (Leviticus 23:42 k.j.v.; Romans 11:1).  Though, the uncircumcised were to be cut off (Genesis 17:14; Exodus 4:24-26).  Baptism places one in the Kingdom (John 3:5) and makes one a child of God (Galatians 3:26-28).  There are differences between physical circumcision and spiritual circumcision.

Additionally, let us point out that there is a circumcision we are to do.  God instructed Israel to circumcise their heart (Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 4:4).  One is not humble but stiff-necked and rebellious, if he is uncircumcised of heart and ears (cf. Leviticus 26:41; Jeremiah 6:10; Acts 7:51).  God desires us to be circumcised in the heart (Romans 2:26).  May we remove pride and rebellion and make our hearts and ears tender and receptive to His will. It takes a circumcised heart to receive circumcision from sin.

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