Beatitudes of Revelation: Have Part in First Resurrection

Posted on March 3, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years” (Revelation 20:6).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  What is the first resurrection?  (1) The first resurrection does not refer to the general resurrection of the dead.  Wayne Jackson comments, “There will be a general resurrection of the dead, which will involve, at the same time, both good and evil persons, see – John 5:28-29; Acts 24:15” (Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, p. 217).  (2) Many brethren believe that the reference is to baptism.  John Kachelman Jr. writes, “The ‘first resurrection’ of Revelation 20 is a spiritual resurrection of our souls from spiritual death and is accomplished only when we hear and obey the gospel” (Kackelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, p. 162).  There are good points to be made for this position.  Baptism is not only a burial, but also, a resurrection (Colossians 2:12 cf. 3:1; Romans 6:3-5; Ephesians 2:1,5-6).  Christians are sometimes depicted as currently being the priests of God (1 Peter 2:9; 1 Peter 2:5 cf. Hebrews 13:15; Revelation 1:4-6).  (3) Others believe that this refers to being faithful until death.  Revelation 2:10-11 reads, “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life… He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.”  Revelation 20:6 reads, “Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  Over such the second death has no power…”  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “There is an axiom which decrees that things equal to the same things are equal to each other.  In Revelation 2:11 it is said that overcoming the persecutions exempted them from the second death.  But in Revelation 20:6 it is said that part in the first resurrection exempted them from the second death.  Things equal to the same things being equal to each other – part in the first resurrection referred to overcoming persecutions and entering into triumph of that victory” (Wallace, The Book of Revelation, p. 416).  Wayne Jackson adds, “It may be… that this ‘resurrection’ symbolizes a relief from a period of horrible persecution,  somewhat analogous to the figurative resurrection portrayed in Ezekiel 37, which depicts Judah’s release from Babylonian captivity” (Jackson, p. 217).  (4) I believe that the last two points are not mutually exclusive. I believe that both are included. Remember the words of Revelation 12:11 (cf. Revelation 7:13-14) “They overcame …by the blood of the Lamb” [note: Blood is contacted at baptism (Revelation 1:5; 7:13-14 cf. Acts 22:16 cf. Romans 6:3-4). The blood continues to be available to those who walk in the light (1 John 1:7,9; 2:2)] “and by the word of their testimony and they did not love their lives to the death” [note: This is speaking of faithfulness (Matthew 10:32-33; 16:24-25; Revelation 2:10-11; 7:13-14). The faithful will be blessed even in death (Revelation 14:13)].

The second death has no power over such.  There is no question that the second death refers to being cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:12-15).  Ray Summers comments, “The ‘first death,’ which is not mentioned but implied, must be physical death.  The ‘second death’ which is mentioned here is symbolic of eternal separation, eternal punishment in the lake of fire” (Summers, Worthy is the Lamb, p. 205).  Consider the words of Jesus, “Do not fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28); “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.  But I will show you whom you shall fear; Fear him who, after He has killed, has power to case into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!” (Luke 12:4-5); “Be faith until death…He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death” (Revelation 2:10-11).

They shall be priests of God and of Christ.  The reference is to those who overcame.  This includes martyrs (Revelation 20:4,6 cf. 6:9-11).  Death does not defeat the faithful. They are elevated to better things (cf. Revelation 14:13).

They shall reign with Him a thousand years.  The thousand years are not to be understood as a literal length of time.  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “There are twenty figures of speech in the nineteenth and twentieth chapters alone.  In a series of symbols such as these, it is not reasonable to make a literal application of the thousand years and a figurative application of all the rest… without a contextual or historical reason for doing so” (Wallace, p. 403). Some consider the thousand years as the whole period of Christianity.  It may be most of it.  However, it is not all of it (cf. Revelation 20:7-10).  The thousand-year reign seems to refer to a long period of time (cf. Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalms 50:10; 90:4) in which the church would come out of intense persecution and would experience a long unprecedented period of relative peace (Revelation 20:1-3 cf. 20:7-10).  The devil would again return to great opposition to Christianity, but then comes the end (Revelation 20:7-10).

Yes this is a difficult section of scripture to understand.  However, the central message is be faithful. Let us be faithful. If we are faithful, the second death will do us no harm. If we are faithful, then we will be blessed, whatever the specific details of the events of final things may be.

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Accept the Invitation

Posted on March 2, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“‘Alleluia!  For the Lord God omnipotent reigns!  Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.’  And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.  Then he said to me, ‘Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’  And he said to Me, ‘These are the true sayings of God‘” (Revelation 19:6-9).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14). These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

The Lamb and His bride are mentioned.  The Lamb is Jesus (cf. John 1:29; 35-36; 1 Peter 1:18-20; The book of Revelation refers to Him as The Lamb 29 times).  His bride is the church (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:2; Romans 7:4; Ephesians 5:22-32).  She is clothed in white fine linen (Revelation 19:8 cf. 3:4-5).  White represents purity (cf. Isaiah 1:18).  She is regarded as pure because she has been washed in the blood of the Lamb (cf. Revelation 7:13-14), and has proven herself faithful to the Lamb (Revelation 19:8 cf. 3:4-5; 12:11).  Wayne Jackson comments, “The reader is informed that the church ‘was given’ the opportunity to clothe herself. The passive form of the verb indicates that salvation is ultimately a ‘gift’ from God (cf. Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8). Be that as it is, it is nonetheless still true that she must exercise the initiative to ‘array herself’ with ‘righteous acts’ of obedience cf. Matthew 22:11-ff” (Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, p. 214).

This is their wedding day.  Some are confused by this.  Sometimes the New Testament depicts the church as currently married to Christ (cf. Romans 7:4; Ephesians 5:22-32).  However, the New Testament also depicts the church as currently betrothed (or espouse) to Christ, currently living prior to the wedding day (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:2; Revelation 19:6-9).  How can this be resolved?  The solution seems to be found in the Jewish customs of the day.  A woman betrothed (espoused) to a man was in a sense, legally considered married (Exodus 21:9; Deuteronomy 22:23-29).  Infidelity was punishable by death (Deuteronomy 22:23-29). However, They did not yet dwell together.  The groom typically used this period of time to prepare a place for them (cf. John 14:1-3).  The wedding ceremony would occur at a later date.  Then, the bride would be taken home (cf. John 14:1-3).  The church is currently espoused to Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2).  We must remain faithful. We must be pure, and without spot, when He comes (2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:25-27; James 1:27).

Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper. John Kachelman Jr. comments, “When Christ returns to claim His bride (the church), all the faithful would join the wedding procession and enjoy the wedding feast through eternity in heaven” (Kachelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, pp. 99-100).  James Burton Coffman comments, “All men are bidden in the sense of being invited by the gospel of Christ to accept the salvation of God; but, in the New Testament, the ‘called’ (sometimes B.H.) means those who ‘have accepted and obeyed the call'” (Commentary on Revelation, p. 444; cf. 1 Corinthians 1:23-24; 2 Peter 1:10; Jude 1).  This is how the term “called” is being used in this passage.  The invitation must be accepted to receive the blessings (cf. Matthew 22:1-14).

“‘All things are ready,’ come to the feast!  Come for the table now is spread; ye famishing, ye weary come and thou shalt be richly fed.  Hear the invitation, come, whosoever will; praise God for full salvation for whosoever will” (Song: All Things Are Ready, by Charles H. Gabriel).

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Watch/Stay Dressed

Posted on February 25, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Behold, I am coming as a thief.  Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame” (Revelation 16:15).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

Behold, I am coming as a thief.  Judgment is coming.  Jesus’ coming will be as a thief (Revelation 16:15 cf. Matthew 24:42-44; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2; 2 Peter 3:10).  What does this mean?  It means that the hour of His coming will be unannounced.  It will not be on a scheduled appointment with man.  Consider the words of Jesus: “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.  But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into.  Therefore, you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:42-44).  Consider, the words of Paul: “But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you.  For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:1-2).

Blessed is he who watches.  The message is: be ready.  Jesus said, “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming… be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect… Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming” (Matthew 24:42, 44; 25:13).  We are to live mindful of the Lord’s return (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; Titus 2:11-13).

Blessed is he who keeps his garments.  This is another way of saying be ready.  Consider, the words of Paul: “But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief… Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.  For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night.  But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation” (1 Thessalonians 5:4-8).  The picture is of one who is clothed and ready for that Day.

Those not ready will be found naked and in shame.  Let’s consider three thoughts:  (1) The language may refer to being found not dressed in the spiritual armor of God. This seems to best fit the “thief” context, in my judgment. One does not want to be found spiritually unclothed and asleep when the Lord comes.  Paul exhorted, “But you, brethren, are not overtake you as a thief…Let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober… let us… be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation” (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8). Those not clothed in faith, love and hope are not dressed and ready for His coming.  (2) Some see this as reference to Israel’s temple police.  James Coffman’s commentary quotes from F.F. Bruce, “According to the Mishna, the captains of the temple in Jerusalem went their rounds  of the precincts at night, and if a member of the temple police was caught asleep at his past, his clothes were taken off and burned, and he was sent away naked and disgraced” (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, p. 375).  Adam Clark comments, “Here is a plain allusion to the office of him who is called the perfect or overseer, of the mountain temple.  His custom was to go his rounds during the watches of the night; and if he found any of the Levites sleeping on his watch, he had the authority to beat him with a stick, and burn his vestments see Middoth, fol. 34, 1 and Talmid. fol. 27, 2; 28, 1.  Such a person being found on his return home naked, it was at once known that he had been found asleep at his post, had been beaten, and his clothes burnt; thus his shame was seen– he was reproached for his infidelity and irreligion” (Clark, Vol. 6, p. 1035). (3) The language, in context, could refer to being found not wearing white garments. Jesus called the church at Laodicea “naked” (Revelation 3:17). He instructed them to buy from Him, “White garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed” (Revelation 3:18). White garments are for faithful Christians (Revelation 7:13-14; Revelation 3:5 cf. 12:11). One who is not a faithful Christian will not be properly dressed to meet the Lord, when He returns. Regardless of which position you hold, all three make the same basic point: Be ready.  Let us live each day, as if, it could be the last. “Blessed are those whom the Lord finds watching, In His glory they shall share; If He shall come at the dawn or midnight, Will He find us watching there? O can we say we are ready brother? Ready for the souls bright home?say will He find you and me still watching. Waiting, waiting when the Lord shall come?” (Song: Will Jesus Find Us Watching? by Fanny Crosby).

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“Remember not the Sins of My Youth” Psalm 25:7a

Posted on February 22, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

We would do well to each acknowledge the sins of our youth before God.  The passage of time, and our aging and maturing alone does not remedy our sinful past.

Matthew Henry comments, “Here is an implicit confession of sin; he specifies particularly the sins of his youth.  Note, Our youthful faults and follies should be a matter of repentance and humiliation long after, because time does not wear out the guilt of sin.  Old people should mourn for the sinful pleasures of their youth.”

Some folks look back upon their sinful youth with fond memories.  They glory in the wrongs they did (cf. Proverbs 2:14; Romans 1:28-32).  They joke and jest and have pleasures about such (cf. Proverbs 10:23; Ephesians 5:4, 11-12).  They might even have the attitude that every youth ought to sow his wild oats (cf. Romans 1:28-32; 1 Corinthians 13:6).  After all. you’re only young once! (cf. Ecclesiastes 12:1a).

Instead, we, as the psalmist, David, ought to recognize with remorse the sins of our past. We should mourn over them, not celebrate them (Matthew 5:4). Moreover, we should confess our faults to God (Proverbs 28:13; Psalm 32:5; Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:8-9).  Our faults may be too numerous to even recall individually all these years later;  But, we can petition God, “Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions” (Psalm 25:7a).

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Die in the Lord

Posted on February 19, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Here is the patience of the Saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.  Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, ‘Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’  ‘Yes,’ Say the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them'” (Revelation 14:12-13).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

The context of this beatitude concerns a vision of the hereafter.  The wicked are in torment, without rest day or night (Revelation 14:9-11).  The faithful are blessed, and have rest from their labors (Revelation 14:12-13 cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7).  Ray Summers comments, “The Christian Martyr was burned at the stake; but that was over in a few minutes, and he found himself possessed of eternal life in fellowship with God.  Those who worshipped the emperor fell before God’s judgment and found a life of eternal burning in the sulphurous fumes” (Summers, Worthy is the Lamb, p. 181).  The message is: be faithful.  It is worth the cost.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.  The words “in the Lord” refers to being in spiritual union with the Lord (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, p. 340).  One gets into Christ by baptism (Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:26-27).  However one needs to continue to abide in Him (1 John 2:6; 2:10; 2:24; 2:28; 3:24; 2 John 9; Jude 24 cf. John 14:23; 15:10).  Dying in the Lord is the equivalent to being faithful unto death (Revelation 14:13 cf. 2:10).  This is speaking of those who do not “love their lives to the death” (Revelation 12:11).  This is speaking of those who are willing to die rather than to turn from following Him.  The words “from now on” are difficult.  James Burton Coffman comments, “The oldest MSS were not divided into words.  If this is two words, it means henceforth, but if one, it means assuredly.  The original Greek may be read either way with equal authority’ (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, p. 341).   It is possible that the words go with “they may rest…,” and means from the moment they die and onwards they continue to have rest.  Phillip Mauro comments, “from henceforth…i.e. from the very moment of death” (Mauro, Things Which Soon Must Come To Pass, p. 449). It is important to observe that the blessing is not for all who die.  It is for those who die in the Lord.

They may rest from all their labors.  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “That is, from the travail of persecution” (Wallace, The Book of Revelation, p. 313, cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7).  Wayne Jackson comments, “The term ‘rest’ does not suggest that the saints will be inactive in the final order of things, for they ‘serve’ God (22:3).  Rather, ‘rest’ denotes a cessation from earthly labor.  The word ‘labor’ reflects a state of exhaustion and probably hints of the persecution experienced by the faithful.  All will be over when the saints are freed from the rigors of earth’s difficulties” (Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, pp. 198-199).

Their works follow them.  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “The works referred to their righteous acts in the midst of the period of torture and trial” (Wallace, p. 314).  Our Lord knows what we do (Revelation 2:1-2; 2:9; 2:13; 2:19; 3:1; 3:8; 3:15).  John Kachelman Jr.comments, “Note here the works on earth follow the saints in death and into eternity (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:10; etc.).  It is absurd to claim that one’s works have no bearing on salvation” (Kachelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, p. 79 cf. Philippians 2:12).

“O! for a home with God, a place in His courts to rest, Sure in a safe abode with Jesus and the blest; Rest for a weary soul once redeemed by the Savior’s love, Where I’ll be pure and whole and live with My God above” (Song: Walking Alone at Eve by Thomas Sweatmon).

 

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Read/Hear/Heed

Posted on February 16, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near” (Revelation 1:3).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

Blessed is he who reads and those who hear.  Let it be observed that “he” is singular, and “those” is plural.  “He” likely refers to the one who publicly reads the scripture before the congregation (e.g. Deuteronomy 31:9-11; Nehemiah 8:1-3; Jeremiah 36:5-6, 13; Colossians 4:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:27; 1 Timothy 4:13); “those” likely refers to the listeners in the assembly.  God’s word is designed to bless man. The blessed open their ears to hear God’s instructions. Eight times there is the exhortation “He who has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says,” or equivalent (Revelation 2:7; 2:11; 2:17; 2:29; 3:6; 3:13; 3:22; 13:9).

The blessed – not only reading or hearing – but  also, keep (follow, live by, practice) God’s word.  Teaching the truth is not enough.  “You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself?” (Romans 2:21).  Hearing the truth preached is not enough.  “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22 cf. Romans 2:13).  Jesus said, “Whoever hears these sayings of Mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock… But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand” (Matthew 7:24, 26).

The time is near.  These Christians were facing some imminent difficulties (cf. Revelation 2:10).  It was important that they heeded the message of this book.

Is there an application for us?  Certainly, there is.  Each day we live we are one day closer to death and judgment (James 4:13-17). It is important that we listen to God’s word before it is too late. Let us live like we are dying. “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).

 

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Are You Dressed For War? (Spiritual Armor)

Posted on February 10, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil… Take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:12-13).

We are in a spiritual war.  Christians are frequently depicted as soldiers in the scriptures (Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 8; 1 Timothy 1:18; 6:12; 2 Timothy 2:3-4).  God has supplied the armor necessary to survive this spiritual war.  It is up to us to put it on, and use what has been provided.

 1.  Gird your waist with truth (Ephesians 6:14a).

The girdle or belt held things in place.  “This went about the loins, and served to brace the armor tight to the body, and to support daggers, short swords, and such like weapons, which were frequently stuck in it” (Adam Clark). In every day life the girdle or belt bound up loose flowing robes for movement and work.

Truth is the Christian’s belt.  Truth is God’s word (John 17:17; Psalm 119:160).  It keeps the Christian from spiritually falling apart.  Spiritual success depends on learning, knowing, and meditating on God’s word.  This is the first reference to God’s word.

Peter instructs us to “gird up the loins of your mind” (1 Peter 1:13). Our minds should be pulled together with truth.

2.  Put on the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14b cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:8).

The breastplate protected such vital organs as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys.  “This consisted in two parts, called pteruges or wings: one covered the whole region of the thorax or breast, in which the principle viscera of life are contained; and the other covered the back, as for down as the front part extended” (Adam Clark).  It “protected the soldier from the neck to the waist” (W.T. Hamilton, Glory In The Church, p. 122).

Righteousness is the Christian’s breastplate.  The term “righteousness” is used in different ways in the Bible.  It is sometimes used of right doing (e.g. Acts 10:34-35).  It is sometimes used of having a right standing with God (e.g. Luke 1:6; Romans 4:3 cf. Genesis 15:6).  It is sometimes used of God’s plan for man’s righteousness (Romans 10:1-4).  These things – what should be done, and how to have and maintain a right relationship with God – are revealed in God’s word.  This is the second reference to God’s word.

This is also called the “breastplate of faith and love” (1 Thessalonians 5:8).  One cannot be righteous without faith (cf. Hebrews 11:6) and love (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

3.  Shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15).

The proper foot wear was important.  It protected the feet and prevented slipping in battle, which could be deadly.  “Greaves or brazen boots, which covered the shin or front of the leg; or kind of Solea was often used, which covered the sole, and laced about the instep, and prevented the foot from being wounded by rugged ways, thorns, stones, etc.” (Adam Clark).

The gospel of peace (cf. Romans 10:15) is the Christian’s footwear.  The gospel is revealed in God’s word (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Mark 16:15-16).  This is the third reference to God’s word.

Foy Wallace Jr. remarked, “The Christian is the messenger of the gospel.  Feet shod, not seats padded… Every Christian – prepare to take the gospel” (Wallace, A Commentary on Romans, Galatians and Ephesians, p. 228).

4.  Take the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16).

There were different types of shields.  Some were small.  Some were large.  This was the largest of shields in common use.  It was four feet long and two and one-half feet wide” (Lipscomb, A Commentary on Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians, p. 132).  “This was always made of wood, and covered with hides… It was called a thureos, a door, which it resembled in an oblong shape, but it was made curved” (Adam Clark). “Darts were dipped in pitch and set on fire.  Wooden shields (were) covered with leather to prevent burning quickly” (Fallis, Brown Trail class notes).  “Joined together, these large shields formed a wall, behind which a whole body of troops could hide themselves from the rain of enemies missiles” (Lipscomb, p. 132).

Faith is the Christian’s shield.  “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).  This is the fourth connection with God’s word.

It is good to join together our shields of faith. It is good for faithful Christians to work together, and help one another, when possible, in this spiritual war.

Do not cast away your shield of faith (Hebrews 10:35). Robert Milligan commented, “There seems to be an allusion here to the conduct of weak and cowardly soldiers, who in the day of battle were wont to throw aside their shields and turn their backs on the enemy. This was regarded by the ancients as extremely dishonorable. And hence when the Lacedemonian women presented shields to their sons on going to battle, they were in a habit of saying to them, ‘Bring this back, or be brought back upon it,’ The same sentiment prevailed also among the ancient Germans. Tacitus says, that ‘to lose or cast away the shield in battle, was regarded by them as a matter of the greatest dishonor; and that those who acted so were not allowed to be present at the sacrifices, nor to attend the public assemblies of the people (Germ. c. vi.) In allusion to this very prevalent feeling among the ancients, our author exhorts his Hebrew brethren not to act the part of cowardly soldiers by voluntarily casting away the shield of faith” (Milligan, A Commentary on Hebrews, p. 373).

5.  Take the helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:17a cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:8).

This protected the head (the brain) and perhaps the neck.  “This was the armor for the head, and was of various forms embossed with a great variety of figures.  Connected with the helmet was the crest or ridge on top of the helmet, adorned with several emblematic figures; some for ornament, some to strike terror” (Adam Clark).  “The Roman soldier’s helmet was a cap made of thick leather or brass, fitted to the head” (Lipscomb, p. 133).

The hope of salvation is the Christian’s helmet (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:8).  Hope helps us to keep our heads (or spiritual minds) when life is difficult.  Hope comes through God’s word (Titus 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).  This is the fifth direct or indirect connection with God’s word.

6.  Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17b).

The Romans had two swords.  They were both made from an iron alloy.  The long sword was generally used by the cavalry.  The short sword was usually used by foot soldiers (swordhistory.info).  The short sword was about 20″ in length and typically double-edged (ibid).  It is the short sword which is mentioned here.

The word of God is the Christian’s sword.  It is a defensive weapon (cf. Matthew 4:3-4, 5-7, 8-11).  It is an offensive weapon which can be used to convict the consciences of men (cf. Acts 2:36-37).  This is the sixth reference to God’s word.

Foy Wallace Jr. remarked, “It is said that the word is the sword that the Holy Spirit uses.  Rather, the word of God is the sword the Holy Spirit forged for us to use.  The Spirit does not wield the sword – we ourselves wield it, and if we do not wield it, then it will not be wielded” (Wallace, The Mission and Medium of the Holy Spirit, p. 85).

7.  Pray always (Ephesians 6:18).

Do not underestimate the value of prayer.  The word of God and prayer are our armor in this spiritual war.

Andrew Connally wisely said, “Medieval armour (is) useless now before bullets, castles (are now) no protection against artillery… the foe determines the kind of armour needed.  Physical force will not serve us: Samson’s strength (was) no avail against temptation…  Spiritual armour is needed” (Connally, Great Lessons From Ephesians and Colossians, p. 86-87). God has provided the armor. It is up to us to do it.

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The Beatitudes: Those Who Are Persecuted

Posted on February 5, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Blessed are those who persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.  Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:10-12).

Roland Q. Leavell remarks, “The eight Beatitudes are the octave of kingdom music.  They are like an eight-rung ladder upon which one can climb the delectable heights of Christian radiance and peace and joyous living.  (Leavell, Studies in Matthew: The King and the Kingdom, p. 36).

The word “blessed” (makarios) is defined to mean – “blessed, happy” (Thayer); “blessed, fortunate, happy usually in a sense of divine favor” (BAG).  True lasting happiness is found in a right relationship with God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.  Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.  The word “persecute” (dioko) means “(a) ‘to put to flight, drive away,’ (b) ‘to pursue,’ whence the meaning ‘to persecute'” (Vine’s); “1. to make to run or flee, put to flight, drive away… 2. to run swiftly in order to catch some person or thing, to run after… 3. to harass, trouble, molest one, to persecute” (Thayer).  Persecution may take the form of physical assault (e.g. Acts 8:2; 22:4), verbal abuse (Matthew 5:11 cf. 1 Peter 2:23; 4:4; Matthew 10:25), or false accusation (Matthew 5:11 cf. Matthew 26:59-61; Luke 23:2; Acts 6:13; 16:20-21; 17:5-7; 24:5-9).

It is important to observe that it is not suffering for just any reason that is under consideration.  It is suffering for right doing, and for the cause of Christ that is under consideration (Matthew 5:10-12 cf. 1 Peter 2:20; 3:14; 3:17; 4:14-16).  Peter writes, “What credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently?  But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God” (1 Peter 2:20).  Again, “If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you… But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.  Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed” (1 Peter 4:14-16).  Not all persecution is due to righteous behavior.  Let us make sure – that when we are persecuted – that it is for our being Christians, and not for being obnoxious, or sinful.

We must be willing to endure persecution for being Christians.  Jesus taught this (Matthew 10:16-37; Revelation 2:10).  Paul taught this (Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 2:12; 3:12).  Peter taught this (1 Peter 4:12-13).  John taught this (Revelation 7:14-14; 12:11). [One does a great disservice when he leads another to believe that if he become a Christian everything will be easy,  all problems will go away, and it will be paradise on earth. Too many teach this false message. It cost something to truly follow Christ.  Family may turn against you (Matthew 10:35-36). Friends may reject you, and speak evil of you (1 Peter 4:4). Men may hate you (Matthew 10:22). It has cost people their lives (Acts 8:2; 12:1-2; Revelation 2:10). The facts should be made clear so that each can weigh the cost (Luke 14:25-33). Otherwise, the church becomes filled with those without deep commitment, and in the long run such weakens the church and its influence.]

When suffering, remember those who went before us.  The prophets were persecuted (Matthew 5:12 cf. Hebrews 11).  “Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.  You have not yet resisted to bloodshed striving against sin” (Hebrews 12:3-4).  Few will ever suffer as Jesus did for us.  We have His example and the example of the prophets of old.

Theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven.  The reward in heaven is for those who do not compromise truth, or turn back from the faith,  but are willing to suffer, if necessary, for following Christ (Revelation 2:10).  One who is right with God can rejoice even in persecution. We are told of Jesus “who for the joy set before Him endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2). The apostles rejoiced in persecution (Acts 5:41; 16:23-25). Paul encouraged,  “I consider the suffering of this present time not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed” (Romans 8:18).  Again, “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceedingly and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17).  The writer of Hebrews wrote to some early Christians saying “you…joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven” (Hebrews 10:34). Hugo McCord comments, “Early Christians loved the eighth beatitude…It caused them to smile in the bitterest of violence” (McCord, Happiness Guaranteed, p.58).

Eight beatitudes are contained in Matthew 5:1-12.  These eight do not describe eight different types of people (i.e. one who is merciful but not pure in heart.  Another is pure in heart but not merciful et al.).  Instead these eight beatitudes describe one type of people.  The blessed have these eight traits in common.  The blessed: (1) realize their spiritual need; (2) are genuinely sorry for their sins; (3) humbly let God direct them; (4) greatly desire a right relationship with God; (5) are merciful to others; (6) are not double-minded, but pure in heart; (7) are peacemakers; (8) are ready and willing to suffer for the cause of Christ. Hugo McCord comments, “Self-preservation is said to be the first law of nature. When the eighth beatitude takes hold of a man, that man is willing to go contrary to nature” (ibid, p. 54). Commitment to Him must be even stronger than the desire for physical preservation.

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Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage (Paul: 1 Corinthians 7, Part 6)

Posted on February 3, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Now concerning virgins: I have no commandment from the Lord; yet I give judgment as one whom the Lord in His mercy has made trustworthy” (1 Corinthians 7:25).

Paul had received questions from the brethren at Corinth (1 Corinthians 7:1 cf. 7:10; 7:12; 7:25; 8:1; 12:1; 16:1-2; 16:12).  We have his answers.  We do not have the wording of the original questions.

“Paul, what advice do you give concerning virgins and widows?”  It seems that they asked something like this.

His answer was not a commandment from the Lord.  However, it was inspired advise[1 Corinthians 7:25 (cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:4; 1 Timothy 1:11-12); 1 Corinthians 7:40; 14:37].  Robert Dodson comments, “This is not a matter of commandment, but neither is it mere human opinion.  It is the judgment of an inspired apostle” (Dodson, Brown Trail Class Notes).

“I suppose therefore that this is good because of the present distress – that it is good for a man to remain as he is: Are you bound to a wife?  Do not seek to be loosed.  Are you loosed from a wife?  Do not seek a wife.  But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned.  Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you” (1 Corinthians 7:26-28).

Paul answered: (1) “It is good for a man to remain as he is” (1 Corinthians 7:26).  It was best, in Paul’s judgment, for all not married (including virgin women) to remain unmarried.  This advice was due to the “present distress” (v. 26), which was soon to get much worse (v. 29-31).  No sudden changes in marital status were advised: (a) “Are you bound to a wife?  Do not seek to be loosed” (v. 27a).  The word “loosed” (lusis) “is commonly found in the papyri with reference to the ‘discharge’ of bonds or debts.  It clearly has reference here to breaking up the marriage – a divorce” (Editor Jim Laws, Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage, p. 399, The Spiritual Sword Lectureship).  This may have been said to caution the married not to divorce their mates because of the “present distress.”  Marriage is for “better and worse.”  It is designed for endurance.  (b) “Are you loosed from a wife” (v. 27b).  The word “loosed” (lelusai) does not necessarily mean divorced.  Thayer says of the word, “a single man, whether he has already had a wife or has not yet married.”  Bauer, Arndt, and Gingrich says, “a previous state of being ‘bound’ need not be assumed.”  One who has been married can be loosed to remarry two ways: First, one is loosed when his mate dies (Romans 7:1-3; 1 Corinthians 7:39); Second, one is loosed when he puts away his mate for fornication (Matthew 19:9).  (2) “But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries she has not sinned” (1 Corinthians 7:28).

“And this I say for your own profit… But if any man thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of youth… let him do what he wishes.  He does not sin; let them marry… so then he who gives her in marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better” (1 Corinthians 7:35-38).

There are two views of these verses.  (1) Some believe that this refers to an engaged man and his fiancé.  “His virgin” is understood to mean “his fiancé.”  The ESV renders it “his betrothed” with a footnote which reads, “Greek virgin.” What about the words “gives her in marriage”? (v. 38 NKJV).  While this is the ordinary meaning of the wording (cf. Matthew 22:30; Luke 17:27; 20:34-35), some argue that the wording sometimes simply means “to marry.”  The ESV reads, “he who marries his betrothed does well, and he who refrains will do better.”  (2) Others believe that this refers to a father and his daughter.  “His virgin” is understood to mean, “his virgin daughter.” The NASB renders it “his virgin daughter,” with daughter in italics.  This is my view.  In my mind, it is the most natural understanding of the Greek in verse 38.  It also provides a most natural reason for the shift in verse 36: “let him do what he wishes.  He does not sin; let them marry.” Robert Dodson comments, “Jewish, Roman and Greek fathers controlled the marriage of their daughters…Paul assures the father that he has not sinned if he gives his daughter in marriage, but if this could be avoided it would be better for the same reasons Paul has already stated in this chapter”(Dodson, Brown Trail class notes). J.W. McGarvey comments, “Marriages in the East were then, as now, arranged by the parents. If a parent saw fit to marry his daughter he had a perfect right to do so and was guilty of no sin, but if he heeded the apostle’s warning as to the coming trials and kept his daughter free…he acted more wisely” (McGarvey, Thessalonians, Corinthians, Galatians, and Romans, p. 84).

However, regardless of which parties are in view (see above), the point is the same.  It was best not to marry at that time.  However, it was no sin to marry.

“A wife is bound by law as long her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is a liberty to marry whom she wishes, only in the Lord.  But she is happier if she remains as she is – and I think I also have the spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 7:39-40).

Paul advised: (1) It was best for the widow not to marry.  He suggested that she would be happier (under the current situation) to remain unmarried (v. 40).  He reminded them, in a sarcastic way, that this was not just an opinion, but inspired advice (v. 40 cf. 1 Corinthians 14:37). (2) However, it was not a sin for her to remarry (v. 39).  Though, she was instructed that if she married, she was to marry “only in the Lord” (see article Marrying “Only in the Lord” ).

What about widowers?  Earlier, Paul spoke of “the unmarried” and “widows” (1 Corinthians 7:8).  The word “unmarried” is masculine.  It likely refers in context to widowers.

A very important point is stated, which should not be missed: marriage is a lifetime commitment (v. 39).

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The Beatitudes: The Peacemakers

Posted on January 29, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).

Harry S. Truman said in an address on December 24, 1945, “I do not believe there is one problem in this country or in the world today which could not be settled if approached through the teaching of the Sermon on the Mount… Would that the world would accept that message in this time of greatest need!” (Harry S. Truman: “Address at the Lighting of the National Community Christmas Tree on the White House Grounds,” December 24, 1945).

The word “blessed” (makarios) is defined to mean, “blessed, happy” (Thayer); “blessed, fortunate, happy usually in a sense of divine favor” (BAG).  True lasting happiness is found in a right relationship with God.

Blessed are the peacemakers.  The word “peacemaker” (eirenopoios) is defined to mean “an adjective signifying peace making” (Vine’s); “a peace-maker… pacific, loving peace [others… dispute this secondary meaning]” (Thayer).  A verbal form of this word appears in Colossians 1:20; here it concerns reconciliation. [The word was also used in the secular world  of earthly rulers who maintained peace by force (Theological Dictionary Of The New Testament, Abridged, p. 210; Morey, When is it Right to Fight?, p. 46). However, while the government has a duty to protect its people and to maintain law and order, this usage does not fit the passages which we will consider.]

Peacemakers are not troublemakers, who stir up unnecessary and needless trouble.  God’s people are instructed, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18); “Let us pursue the things which make for peace and things by which one may edify another” (Romans 14:19); “Pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace” (2 Timothy 2:22); “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).

Jesus taught that one should be long-suffering.  (1) One should “turn the other cheek” instead of trading insults (Matthew 5:38-39).  Robert Morey comments, “Jesus specifically referred to the right cheek being slapped instead of the left cheek because the slap of the right cheek by the back of the left hand was a personal insult and was not an act of violence done in the context of war.  Slapping the right cheek was not a life-threatening attack.  It was a personal insult, like spitting in someone’s face” (Morey, When is it Right to Fight?, p. 45).  Oliver Greene comments, “Jesus did not say, ‘If someone shoots you in the back, turn around and let him shoot you in the heart!’  …No one will be very badly hurt by being slapped in the face” (Greene, The Gospel According to Matthew, Vol. 1, p. 413).  (2) One should “give up the cloak” for peace (Matthew 5:40).  If one thinks that you owe him, if one is so petty as to wish to sue you over your inner garment (tunic), then let him have the outer garment (cloak) as well if it will make things better.  This is not addressing matters necessary for caring for one’s family (cf. 1 Timothy 5:8). [Likely, most in Jesus’ day could lose the tunic and the cloak without serious problems. However, such might have been a great loss for some poor. The cloak might have been the only covering at night for some. The law protected the poor from losing their night coverings (Exodus 22:26-27 cf. Deuteronomy 24:12-13)].  (3) One should “go the second mile” (Matthew 5:41).  Roman soldiers and officials could conscript one into helping with a task for the government (cf. Matthew 27:32).  The conscription was limited to one mile, which was measured by 1,000 paces (Bible.org).  One should not have the attitude this is my 1,000 step, I will go no farther.  One should be willing to exceed the requirements for peace.

Peacemakers are not implacable or unforgiving (Romans 1:31).  They seek to resolve conflicts between themselves and others (Genesis 13:1-9; Matthew 5:23-24 cf. 18:15-17).  They seek peace with others.

Peacemakers are those who help solve problems between others (1 Samuel 19:4-6; Matthew 18:16-17).  Paul seems to be appealing for such when he wrote, “I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.  And I urge you true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel…” (Philippians 4:2-3).

Pacemakers are also soul winners.  They want man to be at peace with God.  Therefore, they proclaim the Gospel of peace (cf. Romans 10:15; Ephesians 2:17; 6:15).  The peacemaker “is one who, like Jesus, seeks to reconcile man to God and to bring divine peace into the lives of men” (H. Leo Boles, A Commentary on the Gospel According to Matthew, p. 125).

Peacemakers are needed in our homes and in the church (1) They are needed in our homes.  “Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a fatted calf with hatred” (Proverbs 15:17).  Hugo McCord writes, “Domestic tranquility springs not from household conveniences nor from college educations.  It comes from within, from the deep wells of one’s soul as he eschews friction and stretches for the stillness of peace (McCord’s, Happiness Guaranteed, p. 48).  John’s work included turning, “The hearts of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers” (Malachi 4:6 cf. Luke 1:17).  (2) They are needed in the church.  Members should not be biting and devouring one another (Galatians 5:15).  Malicious words, cannibalism will destroy a church. All members should be “endeavoring to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). They should use their tongues for building up and strengthening the one another (Ephesians 4:29; 1 Thessalonians 5:14).  Sowers of discord are an abomination to God (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Let us caution that God desires not only peace, but purity.  Hugo McCord writes, “As desirable as is peace in the church… yet there is something of more value… The scripture does not say ‘first peaceable, then pure,’ but ‘first pure, then peaceable’ (James 3:17).  If a man has stolen his foster-mother and the church out of a fear of causing dissention quietly hushes the matter, that kind of peace is abominable.  When a doctor injects penicillin in a two-year old child there is no peace… The result is good health.  But avoidance of the immediate storm of wailing by not giving the needle could cause a funeral’ (McCord, Happiness Guaranteed, p. 50).  Those who try to have peace without purity are saying, “‘Peace, peace,’ when there is no peace” with God (Jeremiah 6:14; 8:11).  True peacemakers seek not only peace with man, but also with God.

They shall be called sons of God.  Question: If peacemakers are sons of God, then whose children are trouble-makers?  Hugo McCord comments, “‘Woe to the troublemakers, for they shall be called the children of Satan’ would be the opposite of the seventh beatitude” (McCord, Happiness Guaranteed, p. 46).

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