Love in 1 John

Posted on May 14, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

The term “love” appears in some form 51 times in the 105 verses of 1 John. What can we learn about Biblical love from this book? Here are a few things…

1.  Love is more than words.

“By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:16-18).

The word, “let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth,” are an ellipsis. The meaning is, “let us not love in word or in tongue (only), but (also) in deed and in truth.” This is not forbidding us from saying “I love you” (cf. 2 John 1; 3 John 1). Such can be encouraging. However, talk can also be cheap and unsupported by the evidence of action. We should not only tell others that we love them, but also show them that we love them by our actions.

Jesus is our example of how to love. He put His love into action, laying down His life for us.

We owe this kind of love to one another. (1) We should be willing to lay down our lives for the brethren. Someone might find it easy to say that if the situation ever presented itself where he could die for his brethren, he would do so. However, such generally stays in the realm of a hypothetical situation. Rarely, even during times of persecution, would one ever find himself in a situation where in his life could be given to save another. Therefore, the next point is more basic, more practical. (2) If a brother is in need (not want, but legitimate need), and we have the ability to help, love should prompt us to do so. Caution: (a) This is not speaking of wants, but legitimate needs. (b) We are not to enable sinful behavior. Those who will not work should not be aided (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The father did not send aid to his son, while his son continued his prodigal life-style (Luke 15:11-32).

2.  Love seeks reconciliation.

“In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (1 John 4:10-11).

There are some people who are “implacable” (Romans 1:31 KJV), or “unforgiving” (Romans 1:31 NKJV). They allow no opportunity for forgiveness.

God wants a relationship with us. He wants it so much that He made reconciliation possible. He provided the opportunity for reconciliation. “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

He wants us to be a forgiving people. Jesus wanted, “If you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15).

3.  Love allows the world to see God.

“No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us” (1 John 4:12).

The world has not seen God in His essence, and glory (Exodus 33:20; John 1:18; 5:37; 6:46; 1 Timothy 6:16; 1 John 4:12; 4:20). How then can the world come to appreciate His nature?

The answer that when the world sees true Biblical love in us, they get a glimpse of the nature of God for “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Jesus came to reveal God to man (John 1:18; 12:44-45; 14:8-9). Furthermore, Jesus said, “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). When we practice true Biblical love we identify ourselves with Jesus and show the world a glimpse of who God is.

“Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me, all His wonderful passion and purity; may His spirit divine all my being refine, let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me” (Song: Let The Beauty of Jesus Be Seen by Ben Cumnock).

4.  Love can spread.

“We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Love can have a powerful affect. God’s love can affect the heart of man. It can prompt a man to love, both God and man (cf. 1 John 4:11). Our love can also awake love in others.

“It only takes a spark to get a fire going, and soon all those around can warm up to its glowing. That’s how it is with God’s love, once you’ve experienced it. You spread His love to everyone you want to pass it on. /What a wonderous time in spring, when all the trees are budding. The birds begin to sing, the flowers start their blooming. That’s how it is with God’s love, once you’ve experienced it. You want to sing, ‘It’s fresh like spring’; you want to pass it on. /I wish for you my friend, this happiness that I’ve found. You can depend on Him; it matters not where you’re bound. I’ll shout it from the mountain top, I want the world to know the Lord of love has come to me; I want to pass it on” (Song: Pass It On by Kurt Kaiser).

5. Love is necessary.

“If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar… And this is the commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also” (1 John 4:20-21).

Thomas Warren asked, “Can you name one person living on earth whom God does not love? No, you cannot. Can you name one person living on earth whom Jesus Christ does not love? No you cannot. Can you name one person living on earth whom you do not love? If so, then – to be saved – you must repent of that lack of love. We must repent or perish!” (Warren, The Bible Only Makes Christians Only and the Only Christians, p. 113).

6.  Love is to be expressed by keeping God’s commandments.

“By this we know that we love the children of God, When we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God that we keep His commandments ( 1 John 5:2-3).

Some try to defend sinful behavior by claiming that love prompted this behavior. They have a misguided view of love.

Biblical love is never contrary to the commandments of God. We are to express our love for God by keeping His commandments (John 14:15, 21, 23-24; 1 John 5:3 cf. 2:4). We show our love for our fellow-man by abiding by the commandments of God (Romans 13:8-10; 1 John 5:2; 2 John 5-6).

Thomas Warren wisely said, “No one can be saved without both knowing and obeying the truth. But being correct in doctrine, while necessary to salvation, is not – without love – sufficient. Likewise, while love is necessary to salvation, it is not sufficient (for salvation) without both knowing and obeying the truth (sound doctrine). We must not allow anyone to so misuse what the Bible teaches about love as to mislead us into accepting the sinful position of conceding that the truth (doctrine) of Christ is not critical. On the other hand, we must not allow anyone to mislead us into accepting the false position which holds that as long as one believes the right doctrine, love is not important. All of us ought to speak the truth in love. To hold to truth without love or to love without truth is to espouse a strategy – not of victory – but of defeat. The only strategy of victory is a proper balance between love and truth (sound doctrine)” (Warren, The Bible Only Makes Christians Only and the Only Christians, p. 11).

 

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So, You’ve Got A Little Power!

Posted on May 11, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

In Psalm 82 God addressed the judges of old. He referred to them as “the might,” and even as “gods.” Why are they referred to as “gods”? The word “god” has reference to might, strength, authority, or position. Some have positions of delegated authority from God over the people. Those holding such positions are to be submitted to and obeyed (Numbers 12, 16; 1 Samuel 24:6-7; Proverbs 24:21-22; Romans 13:1-7; Titus 3:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13-17, etc.), unless there be a conflict between God’s instruction and man’s (Daniel 3, 6; Acts 4:19-20; 5:29). They are to be not to respect for their position (Exodus 22:28; Romans 13:7; 1 Peter 2:17; Jude 8). Some men possess the power of life and death over the people (John 19:10-11; Acts 25:10-11).  It is for such reasons, they are called “gods” (cf. Exodus 7:1-2). This is not saying that man is literally God, for he is not (Ezekiel 28:2; Acts 14:12-15). He at best only represented God (cf. Exodus 7:1-2), or has delegated authority from Him (cf. Romans 13:1-7). Not even in the next life will man be equal to God (Revelation 7:13-15; 22:3).

God rebuked these “gods” (Psalm 82:1-4). They had not been good stewards of their positions. They had shown partiality and prejudice (Psalm 82:2-4; cf. Exodus 23:3,6; Leviticus 19:15; Deuteronomy 16:18-19; 2 Chronicles 19:6-7; James 2:9; Matthew 7:12). They may have accepted bribes (Psalm 82:2-4; cf. Proverbs 17:23; 1 Samuel 8:1-3; 12:3; Isaiah 5:23; 33:14-15; Amos 5:12; Matthew 7:12). They may have abused their authority by passing rules and legislation that enriched themselves (Psalm 82:2-4; cf. Isaiah 10:1-2). Yes, they had been entrusted great authority, but they had misused it. They should have used their authority for good (Psalm 72:2,4,12,13; 82:3-4; 101:8; Proverbs 20:8,26; Romans 13:1-7).

Now, what’s my point? My point is just this: You, today, or one day, may well find yourself in a position of authority over others. You may have authority over others at work. You may have authority over others due to a government position. You may have authority over a wife and/or children in the home. You may have authority as an elder or deacon in the church. Don’t let the power go to your head (1 Timothy 3:6).  Remember: (1) Though you may possess great authority, all men are “children of the Most High” (Psalm 82:6). Moreover, all of us were created in the “image of God” (Genesis 1:27; James 3:9), whether we hold high or lowly positions in this life. It matters much how we treat one another (Matthew 7:12; 25:31-46; Acts 20:35; Galatians 6:10; James 2:1-5; 3:9; 1 John 3:17). Furthermore, since we all are “children of the Most High” we are all (both small and great) subject to Him (2 Corinthians 5:10; Ephesians 6:8-9; Colossians 3:25-4:1; 1 Timothy 6:15-16; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 20:12-15). (2) Though you may be mighty upon this earth, and even be called “gods,” or think of yourself as such,  still “you shall die like men” (Psalm 82:7). All men, no matter how wealthy, powerful, or prominent meet death, unless they happen to be alive when the Lord returns. After death we’ll be judged by The Great Judge (Hebrews 9:27; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 20:12-15).

Let us recap, here are the powerful. They are referred to as “gods.” Yet, they were not to forget that they really were not so mighty and powerful. They too were going to die just like the poor (cf. Luke 16:19-31). They too had a Great Judge to Whom they must one day answer (Psalm 82:1, 8; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 20:12-15). Let us use our authority, therefore, for good and not merely for our own selfish ends. Let us not be unreasonable, harsh, or unjust (Ephesians 5:25,28; 6:4; 6:9; Colossians 3:19; 3:21; 4:1; Peter 3:7).

Read These Passages

1.  “And you masters, do the same things to them, giving up threatening, knowing that your Master also is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him.” (Ephesians 6:9).

“Masters, give unto your bond-servants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.” (Colossians 4:1).

Are employees to be submissive to their employers? Yes!

Do employers have authority that is to be obeyed by their employees? Yes!

But, employers need to realize that they are to be just, that they are not so mighty, that they too will die and be judged.

2.  “Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered” (1 Peter 3:7).

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her” (Ephesians 5:25).

“So husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies…” (Ephesians 5:28).

Do husbands have positional authority over their wives? Yes!

Are wives to be obedient to their husbands? Yes!

But notice the warning. If we are overly harsh and misuse our authority, we stand spiritually hindered. It is no enough to possess authority. We must also love.

3.  “And you fathers, do not  provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4).

Are children to be obedient to their fathers? Yes!

Are fathers to discipline and set limits on their children? Yes!

But should a father use his authority just to be difficult, or to  puff himself up? No! He is to use his authority to train up his child properly before God. [Note, regardless of the suspected motive of the command given – wives, children, and employees need to learn to be submissive save for the one exception mentioned ( Acts 5:29)].

We will be judged concerning our stewardship of authority

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Holy Spirit: In Conversion (Part 2)

Posted on May 8, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

Much of the denominational world are Calvinists in doctrine. They believe that there must be a direct operation of the Holy Spirit on the heart of a man before he can be converted. Nathan Rice (a Presbyterian) made this statement – “We believe and teach, that in conversion and sanctification, there is an influence of the Spirit in addition to that of the word, and distinct from it – an influence, without which the arguments and motives of the gospel would never convert and sanctify one of Adam’s ruined race” (Campbell – Rice debate, 1843, p, 628). Again, he said – “It is, then, perfectly clear, that every individual must experience a radical change in his moral character, before he ever will love God or embrace the gospel of Christ. But are the truths of revelation sufficient to effect this change? They are not.” (ibid, p. 633).

However, the Bible is clear – one can hear and obey before receiving the Holy Spirit. This was true at Jerusalem (Acts 2:36-38), at Samaria (Acts 8:4-5, 12, 14-17), and at Ephesus (Acts 19:1-6).

In this article, four different passages will be considered. These four passages relate to the Holy Spirit’s work in conversion.

Birth

John 3:5, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God.”

Only one birth is in view, not two. This one birth has two elements: water and spirit.

What is meant by “water”? The obvious answer is that it refers to baptism. Water is connected with baptism in this very chapter (cf. John 3:23). John Hobbs has written – “For the first 1,500 years of the church’s existence, all scholars without question understood that the ‘water’ in John 3:5 to refer to Christian baptism. While the history of an interpretation if a passage does not make it right, the fact that 1,500 years of understanding a passage in a certain way does give the view considerable weight” (John Hobbs, Searching for Biblical Truth, pp. 183-184). Baptism is certainly necessary for salvation (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21).

What is meant by “spirit”? (1) Some have thought that this refers to the human spirit (cf. Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:20-24). That is, repentance. Note: The definite article is not present here, but it is present in verse 8. (2) Some have thought that this refers to the word which came from the Holy Spirit (a metonymy). Jesus said, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63). The seed is the word (Luke 8:11). Man is begotten by the word (James 1:18; 1 Corinthians 4:15; 1 Peter 1:22-23). John Hobbs commented, “Acts 2:1-47 is the best interpretation of what the Lord meant by the new birth. The Jews were born of ‘spirit’ when they heard the word (John 6:63) and decided to do something about it (Acts 2:37-38). They were born of ‘water’ when they submitted to baptism (Acts 2:41, 47)” (John Hobbs, p. 193). The word leads one to baptism.

Yes, this verse is difficult. However, nothing here implies a direct operation of the Holy Spirit. Moreover, there is not clear account of conversion which teaches such.

Blown

John 3:8, “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

This is admittedly a difficult verse. One difficulty is whether “wind” or “spirit” is the best way to render pneuma. Another difficulty is whether “blows” or “breathes” is the best way to render pnei.

It seems to me that “spirit” is the best rendering of pneuma.  It is so rendered elsewhere in this chapter (John 3:5; 3:6; 3:8 – at the end of this same verse!). Marion Fox commented, “The word pneuma in this verse should be translated as the footnote in the ASV because it is translated ‘spirit’ in all instances except one. It is found in almost 400 instances (in the New Testament – B.H.). It is contrary to common sense for a word to change meaning, in the same sentence without warning of the change.” (Fox, The Work of the Holy Spirit, Vol. 1, p. 153). The Spirit’s breathing or blowing is equated elsewhere with inspiration (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21). Thus, this may mean that the Spirit’s role in the new birth is to reveal or breathe out instructions. Man cannot see the Spirit. However, they can hear what is revealed and can accept the inspired message as being from God (cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:13). No one can be born of the spirit any other way. Guy Woods commented, “This is simply to say that one is born of water and the spirit by receiving the Spirit’s message” (Woods, A Commentary on the Gospel According to John, p. 63). Marion Fox commented, “All who have been born in the same manner, which is by hearing (by Synecdoche = obeying) the voice of the Spirit” (Fox, p. 154).

Others think this to be a metaphor of double entendre. Just as one cannot see the wind, but can see its effects; even so, one cannot see the Spirit working in a man through the word (Philippians 2:13 cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:13), but the effects can be seen (1 Thessalonians 1:5-10).

Nothing in the text demands that this is speaking of a direct operation of the Holy Spirit. God has left the response to man (Joshua 24:15; Matthew 23:37; Acts 17:32-38; 28:24).

Baptized

1 Corinthians 12:13, “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body – whether Jew or Greeks, whether slave or free – and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.”

The “body” refers to the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12, 27). It is the church (Ephesians 1:22-23, 4:4, 5:23).

How does not become a member of the body? The answer is that “by one spirit we were all baptized into one body.”

What does this mean? (1) The text says that it is “by” (KJV, NKJV, NASB) or “in” (ASV, ESV) one Spirit we were baptized. The original preposition is en. The word can be used in a variety of ways. One of the usages is “of instrument or means by or with which anything is accomplished” (Thayer). This same preposition occurs four other times in this chapter (v. 3, 3, 9, 9). In these four cases, the language refers to something which from the spirit and not to the spirit itself. (2) Compare this passage with Ephesians 3:6, which says that both Jew and Gentile are “of the same body” (the church of Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:4 – B.H.) …through the gospel.” Yet, this message was revealed by the Spirit to the apostles and prophets (Ephesians 3:5 cf. 2:18, 20). Foy Wallace Jr., commented, “It is by and through the teaching of the Spirit that we are builded together in the church” (Wallace, The Mission and Medium of the Holy Spirit, p. 81). (3) Compare this passage with Galatians 3:26-28, which reads, “For you are all Sons of God through faith (literally ‘The faith’ – B.H.) in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek… all are one in Christ Jesus.” Both passages speak of being baptized into (eis) Christ, or the body of Christ (Galatians 3:27 cf. 1 Corinthians 12:12-13). One passage mentions “the faith.” The other mentions “one spirit.” Wasn’t that one faith revealed by that one Spirit? Furthermore, the language of being baptized into (eis) Christ, or Jesus refers to water baptism (notice the original language Acts 8:16; 19:5).

What is meant by the words “have all been made to drink into one spirit”? Foy Wallace Jr. suggested that it means “to imbibe the teaching of the Spirit” (Wallace, p. 81). Others believe that the meaning is they had received miraculous gifts by the one Spirit. This seems to fit the immediate context (see 1 Corinthians 12:4-13).

Why this language? Here is a possible reason. Marion Fox suggested, “The church at Corinth had many members who had been idol worshippers prior to their obedience to the gospel (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). They would, naturally, have some unsound idolatrous concepts after their conversion. One concept of idol worshippers was that different gods existed who performed different functions. It seems that they may have come to the wrong conclusion that different spirits caused different gifts” (Fox, The Work of the Holy Spirit, Vol. 1, p. 306).

Renewing

Titus 3:5-6, “He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Spirit whom He pours out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior…”

God saves man. He does so “through” (dia, “the means or instrument by which anything is effected – Vine’s): (1) The washing of regeneration. This washing refers to the washing away of sins in baptism (cf. Acts 22:16; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Hebrews 10:22; Ephesians 5:26). The word “regeneration” (palingenesia) literally means “again birth.” Does this not sound like John 3:3, 5? No, it is not exactly the same in the original language. However, it is similar. (2) The renewing of the Holy Spirit. (a) Some have thought that this is simply a rewording of the previous clause. The conjunction kai can be translated “and,” but in some contexts it is best rendered “even.” (b) However, let’s assume that this is a distinct point. The Bible speaks of the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:20-24). How does the Holy Spirit renew our minds? Directly? No, this is something we do. We do it after learning (Ephesians 4:20-21 cf. 4:22-24). The Holy Spirit provides the message which transforms man’s thinking. This is an indirect process and not a direct process.

Who or what was poured out abundantly? Some translations read “which” (KJV, ASV) was poured out. Other translations read “whom” (NASB, NKJV, ESV) was poured out. The pronoun is either masculine gender or neuter gender, and thus could be rendered either way. (a) If the masculine gender was intended, then the antecedent is “His mercy” (Titus 3:5). “According to His mercy He saved us… whom he poured out on us abundantly.” (b) If the neuter gender was intended, then the antecedent is the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5). The language would take one back to the book of Acts and what it says about the pouring out of the Spirit (cf. Acts 2:4, 17-18, 2-33, 37). The pouring out of the Spirit refers to the coming of inspired revelation. Thus the point would be: God has made this saving message available, abundantly.

Some see in this a direct operation of the Holy Spirit. However, one should draw only such conclusions which are warranted by the evidence.

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Appreciating Her Work

Posted on May 6, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

“Who can find a virtuous wife, for her worth is far above the rubies.  The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain.  She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.”  ~ Proverbs 31:10-12

“She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.  Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”  ~ Proverbs 31:27-28

Consider, in view of Mother’s Day, the following humorous story. It is an old Scandinavian tale which is included in The Book of Virtues edited by William J. Bennett.  The moral of the story is that the work of a wife should be appreciated.

The Husband Who Was To Mind The House

Once upon a time there was  man so surly and cross, he never thought his wife did anything right around the house.  One evening, during hay-making time, he came home complaining that dinner wasn’t on the table, the baby was crying, and the cow had not been put in the barn.

“I work and I work all day,” he growled.  “and you get to stay home and mind the house.  I wish I had it so easy.  I could get dinner ready on time, I tell you that.”

“Dear love, don’t be so angry,” said his wife.  “Tomorrow let’s change our work.  I’ll go out with the mowers and cut the hay, and you stay home and mind the house.”

The husband thought that would do very well.  “I could use a day off,” he said.  “I’ll do all your chores in an hour or two, and sleep the afternoon away.”

So early next morning the wife put a scythe over her shoulder and trudged out to the hayfield with the mowers.  The husband stayed behind to do all the work at home.

First of all, he washed some clothes, and then he began to churn the butter.  But after he had churned a while, he remembered he needed to hang the clothes up to dry.  He went out to the yard, and had just finished hanging his shirts on the line when he saw  the pig run into the kitchen.

So off he dashed to the kitchen to look after the pig, let it should upset the churn. But as soon as he got through the door, he saw the pig had already knocked the churn over. There it was, grunting and rooting in the cream, which was running all over the floor. The man became so wild with rage, he quite forgot about his shirts on the line, and ran at the pig as hard as he could.

He caught it, too, but it was so slippery from all the butter, it shot out of his arms and right through the door. The man raced into the yard, bound to catch that pig no matter what, but he stopped dead in his tracks when he saw his goat. It was standing right beneath the clothesline, chewing and chomping at every last shirt. So the man ran off the goat, and locked up the pig, and took what was left of his shirts off the line.

Then he went into the dairy and found enough cream to fill the churn again, and so he began to churn, for butter they must have at dinner. When he had churned it a bit, he remembered that their cow was still shut up in the barn, and had not had a mouthful to eat or a drop to drink all morning, though the sun was high.

He thought it was too far to take her down to the meadow, so he decided to put her on top of the house, for the roof, you must know was thatched grass. The house lay next to a steep hill, and he thought if he lay a wide plank from the side of the hill to the roof, he’d easily get the cow up.

But still he couldn’t leave the churn, for here was the little baby crawling about on the floor. “If I leave it,” he thought, “the child is sure to upset it.”

So he put the churn on his back and went out with it. Then he thought he’d better water the cow before he put her on the roof, and he got a bucket to draw water out of the well. But as he stooped down at the brink of the well, the cream ran out of the churn, over his shoulders, down his back, and into the well!

Now it was near dinnertime, and he didn’t even have any butter yet. So as soon as he put the cow on the roof, he thought he’d best boil the porridge. He filled the pot with water, and hung it over the fire.

When he had done that, he thought the cow might fall off the roof and break her neck. So he climbed onto the house to tie her up. He tied one end of the rope around the cow’s neck, and the other he slipped down the chimney. Then he went back inside and tied it around his own waist. He had to make haste, for the water now began to boil in the pot, and he still had to grind the oatmeal.

So he began to grind away. But while he was hard at it, down fell the cow off the housetop after all, and as she fell she dragged the poor man up the chimney by the rope! There he stuck fast. And as for the cow, she hung halfway down the wall, swinging between heaven and earth, for she could neither get down nor up.

Meanwhile the wife, who was out in the field, waited and waited for her husband to call her home to dinner. At last she thought she’d waited enough and went home.

When she got there and saw the cow hanging in such an ugly place, she ran up and cut the rope with her scythe. But as soon as she did, down came her husband out of the chimney! So when she went inside the kitchen, she found him standing on his head in the porridge pot.

“Welcome back,” he said, after she had fished him out. “I have something to say to you.”

So he said he was sorry, and gave her a kiss, and never complained again.

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A Mother Makes a Difference

Posted on May 4, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

“The Educated Child,” a book by William J. Bennett, Chester E. Finn Jr., and John T.E. Cribb Jr., contains this story:

“About 150 years ago, a mother in Port Huron, Michigan took her son out of school after a teacher called the youngster ‘addled.’  She knew the boy was bright, so she decided to teach him at home.  She encouraged his questions, let him set up a lab in the basement with old bottles and wires and parts he’d collected, ad gave him  primer on physics called “The School Compendium of Nature and Experimental Philosophy” which was full of experiments he could perform himself.  Many years later, the son told a newspaper, ‘My mother was the making of me.’  By that time, Thomas Edison was America’s most celebrated inventor and scientist” (p. 394).

The point is this: A parent can influence a child in ways no one else can.  How are you influencing your children?  Read 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15.

One powerful way to positively influence your child is by reading to them, especially from the Scriptures.  Consider the following poem:

WHEN MOTHER READS ALOUD

When Mother reads aloud, the past                                                                                             Seems real as every day;                                                                                                                        I hear the tramp of armies vast,                                                                                                           I see the spears and lances cast,                                                                                                           I join the thrilling fray.                                                                                                                    Brave knights and ladies fair and proud                                                                                              I meet when Mother reads aloud.

When Mother reads aloud, far lands                                                                                            Seem very near and true;                                                                                                                       I cross the deserts’ gleaming sands,                                                                                                 Or hunt the jungle’s prowling bands,                                                                                                Or sail the ocean blue.                                                                                                                       Far heights, whose peaks the cold mists shroud,                                                                               I scale when Mother reads aloud.

When Mother reads aloud, I long                                                                                                   For noble deeds to do-                                                                                                                         To help the right, redress the wrong;                                                                                                 It seems so easy to be strong,                                                                                                               So simple to be true                                                                                                                            Oh, thick and fast the visions crowd                                                                                                My eyes, when Mother reads aloud.

We should ever be thankful for Godly mothers. Where would we be without them?

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The Christian Life (from John 3)

Posted on May 1, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

John 3 contains three points which sum up Christianity. Let’s notice:

1.  The Cross of Christ

“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:14-15).

Israel in the wilderness had sinned. They had murmured against God and against His servant Moses. God plagued the children of Israel with fiery serpents which bit the people, killing many. The people confessed their sin and asked Moses to pray to the LORD to take away the plague. The LORD told Moses to make a bronze serpent and set in on a pole. Those bitten could be saved by looking upon the bronze serpent (These things are recorded in Numbers 21:4-9). God provided salvation.

God today, provides salvation through the lifting up of the Son of Man. The reference is to Jesus’ crucifixion (John 3:14 cf. 12:32-33). Man is required to believe (literally keep on believing) in Him. [Understand that the term “believe,” sometimes means more than just mental belief. It is sometimes put for obedience. Thayer indicates that the word can mean “a conviction – conjoined with obedience.” Here are a few examples: (1) The believers in Acts 2:44 refers to those who had repented and had been baptized (Acts 2:37-38, 41). (2) Belief in Acts 10:43, certainly includes repentance (cf. Acts 11:18). (3) Belief in Acts 19:2 includes baptism (cf. Acts 19:3)]. God through His love has provided sinful man with the opportunity for salvation (John 3:16).

2.  The Conversion of Man

“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God” (John 3:5).

What does it mean to be born of water? Water is connected with baptism in this very chapter (cf. John 3:23). William Walls, a church historian, of the Church of England has written, “There is not one Christian writer of any antiquity in any language but understands it of baptism… I believe Calvin was the first that ever denied this place to mean baptism. He gave another interpretation, which he confesses to be new” (John Hobbs, Searching For Biblical Truth, pp. 183-184). John Hobbs wrote, “Therefore, we can understand that, for the first 1,500 years of the church’s existence, all scholars without question understood the ‘water’ in John 3:5 to refer to Christian baptism. While the history of an interpretation of a passage does not make it right…1,500 years of understanding a passage in a certain way does give the view considerable weight” (ibid). Baptism is certainly necessary for salvation (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21).

What does it mean to be born of the Spirit? (1) Some have thought that this refers to the human spirit (cf. Ephesians 4:20-24; Romans 12:1-2; Titus 3:5). That is, repentance. (2) Some have thought that this refers to the word which came forth from the Holy Spirit (a metonymy). “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63). The seed is the word (Luke 8:11). Man is begotten by the word (James 1:18; 1 Peter 1:22-23). He is begotten by the gospel (1 Corinthians 4:15). The word leads us to obedience: “You have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit… having been born again… through the word of God which lives and abides forever” (1 Peter 1:22-23). The Spirit given word leads us to baptism: “that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word” (Ephesians 5:26).

John Hobbs commented, “Every birth has two elements. In the physical realm, we understand that in order to have a physical birth, there has to be an implantation of the seed of man into a woman. Yes, there is a gestation period of nine months. But, then there is a coming forth, a birth! …In the spiritual realm there has to be an implantation of the word of God into the heart of an individual. The parable of the sower emphatically teaches this! … The gestation period for one being born again can be a time period from a few minutes to never. It all depends on the heart of the hearer… the final coming forth… is being baptized” (ibid, p. 191).

Faith is needed (John 3:14-15). However, saving faith acts (cf. Hebrews 11; James 1:22; 2:24; etc.). Saving faith leads one to baptism (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 8:12; 8:36-38). Saving faith accepts God’s terms for pardon.

What about verse 8, which reads – “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit”? This is a difficult verse. One difficulty is how to render the word “pneuma.” Should it be rendered “wind” or “spirit”? Though, the word can mean “wind,” this is not one of the words which is usually used for “wind” in the New Testament. However, it is the usual word for “spirit.” Guy Woods commented, “The word ‘pneuma’ occurs several hundred times in the Greek New Testament. In no other instance do the standard translations render it ‘wind.’ It occurs twice in this passage and is rendered ‘wind’ in the first clause and ‘spirit’ in the last” (A Commentary on the Gospel According to John, pp. 62-63). A second difficulty is whether to render “pnei” as “blows” or “breathes” (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21). Once these things are decided, the question is – what is meant? Here are two suggestions: (1) Nicodemus, the Spirit’s role in the new birth is to breath out instructions. You cannot see Him, but the message is from God (cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:13). No one can be born of the Spirit any other way. Guy Woods commented, “This is simply to say that one is born of water and the Spirit by receiving the Spirit’s message” (ibid). Marion Fox remarked, “The Spirit blowing or breathing is equal to the gift of inspiration, cf. 2 Timothy 3:16 and 2 Peter 1:21. It is by means of the inspired word of God that man adopts a new spirit (disposition)…All who have been born of the Spirit were born in the same manner, which is by hearing (by synecdoche = obeying) the voice of the Spirit” (The Work of the Holy Spirit, Vol. 1, pp. 153-154). (2) This is a double entendre metaphor. Nicodemus, you cannot see the wind, but you can see its effects. Even so, you cannot see the Spirit working in man (Philippians 2:13 cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:13), but the effects can be seen (1 Thessalonians 1:5-10). John Hobbs comments, “When a person is born of the Spirit, one will not be able to see the fact that his sins have been remitted and forgiven. But, through the actions and lifestyle, one will be able to tell that a change has taken place” (Search for Biblical Truth, p. 197).

The translators have rendered this process as being “born again” (John 3:3,7). However the literal rendering is “born from above.” God is from above (cf. James 1:17 ; John 8:23). One needs to be born, not just of flesh, but of God (John 3:6 cf. Matthew 16:17).

3.  A Christ-Exalting Life

“Then there arose a dispute between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purification. And they came to John and said to him, ‘Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you testified – behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!’ John answered… ‘I am not the Christ… He must increase, but I must decrease’” (John 3:25-30).

Jesus, through His disciples, was baptizing more than John – at least this was the report (cf. John 4:1-2). Was John envious? Not at all. He described himself as the friend of the bridegroom filled with joy (John 3:29).

Our ministry is not about us, but Him. “Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For me to live is Christ…”  (Philippians 1:20-21).

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In The News: To Forgive Is Divine

Posted on April 29, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

University of Oklahoma President David Boren expelled two students, in early March, for their racist chants at a fraternity activity.  Levi Pettit was one of those students.

Anastasia Pittman, a state senator, Oklahoma’s only black state senator, saw the leaked video which contained the chants.  She issued a statement condemning the fraternity’s chants and praising Boren’s swift response.

Later in the month, Pettit contacted Pittman, saying that he wanted to apologize.  Pittman arranged a meeting with Pettit, his parents, her, and minister Arnelious Crenshaw, Jr. (who preaches where Pittman attends).  She accepted his apology, but urged him to make a public apology.  He did make a public apology.  She stood by his side while he did this.

Pittman and Crenshaw both made statements.  Pittman said, “I can’t promote Christianity or Christ – like values in policy, and then when I have opportunity to forgive, I don’t.”  Crenshaw said, “Young people who mess up need to know that God is a God of second chances.”

It is worth noting that both Pittman and Pettit are members of the church of Christ. Pittman attends the Northeast church of Christ in Oklahoma City. Pettit has been baptized into Christ  (The source of the above information is Bobby Ross Jr., Forgiving a Racist Chant, The Christian Chronicle, April 2015).

Consider the following passages:

1.  Matthew 6:12 – “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”

2.  Matthew 6:14-15 – “IF you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

3.  Luke 17:3-4 – “Take heed to yourselves.  If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.  And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.”

4.  Matthew 18:21-22 – “Then Peter came to Him and said, ‘ Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him?  Up to seven times?’  Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.'”

5.  Matthew 18:33 – “Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?”

6.  Mark 11:25-26 – “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.  But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.”

7.  Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

8.  Colossians 3:13 – “Forgiving one another… even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”

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Holy Spirit: In Conversion (Part 1)

Posted on April 27, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

Much of Christendom are Calvinistic in doctrine. They hold to the following five points, known as the T.U.L.I.P.: (1) Total Depravity. Man is born in sin. He is incapable of doing good. He is even incapable of understanding God’s will as revealed in the Scriptures. (2) Unconditional Election. Since man is incapable of doing anything to respond to God, God arbitrarily picks certain ones for salvation without their meeting any conditions. (3) Limited Atonement. Jesus did not die for all. He died only for those for whom God unconditionally elected. (4) Irresistible Grace. When God calls His elect to salvation, they cannot resist. The Holy Spirit directly operates on the human heart with irresistible force. This draws them irresistibly to salvation. This illuminates them so that they can understand the scriptures. Man is passive in receiving this irresistible grace. Thus, it is not uncommon for people to speak of their “getting saved.” (5) Perseverance of the Saints. The elect are irresistibly drawn, and thus cannot lose their salvation. Once they are saved, they are always saved.

All five points are wrong. However, at this time we are concerned only with how the Holy Spirit works in conversion.

Illumination

Acts 16:13-14, “And on the Sabbath day we went out of the city to the riverside, where prayer was customarily made; and we sat down and spoke to the woman who met there. Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshipped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul.”

She does not sound totally depraved. She is described as one who worshipped God. She was doing such even before the Lord opened her heart.

How did God open her heart? Many assume that He did such by a direct operation of the Holy Spirit on the human heart. However, the text does not say such. Moreover, other passages seem to indicate that one can hear and obey without having received the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:36-38; 8:4-5, 12, 14-17; 19: 1-6).

Some brethren have held that her heart was opened through signs and wonders done by Paul. Alexander Campbell wrote, “the Lord not only promised to confirm or prove the testimony of the Apostles, but did actually go forth with them, confirming the word with all power, and signs, and wonders and thus opened the hearts of the hearers to receive the gospel. Had the gospel not been confirmed by demonstrations of the power of God inimitable, no one’s heart or ears would have been opened to attend to it” (Franklin Camp, The Work of the Holy Spirit in Redemption, p. 192). It is true that the gospel did not go forth in word only (1 Thessalonians 1:5; Hebrews 2:3-4; Romans 15:18-19; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5). Such is possible, but not necessarily, the meaning.

We should consider the immediate context. J.W. McGarvey well said, “When an effect can be explained and accounted for by causes which are known to be present, it is illogical to assume a cause which is not known to be present” (McGarvey, Original Commentary on Acts, p. 203). The context tells us that the message was spoken (Acts 16:13). Lydia listened (Acts 16:14). Her heart was opened. The proclamation of the truth, and the showing of how Jesus fulfilled scripture can affect the heart (cf. Luke 24:25-27, 32). One should draw only those conclusions which are warranted by the evidence. It is illogical to assume a direct operation of the Holy Spirit.

Why credit God and not Paul for opening her heart? Alan Adams illustrated this crediting of God by the game Mousetrap. What (or who) caught the mouse? One might say it was the basket which caught the mouse. Another might say it was the gizmo which tripped the latch which held the basket. Another might say that it was the ball which rolled to trip the gizmo. Another might say it was the player who set the whole process in motion, who did it. Another might point out that this would not have happened without the moves of the other players. Another might say that ultimate credit goes to the designer of the game itself. All would be correct. Paul was directed by God to Macedonia (Acts 16:6-10). He found certain women by the riverside in Philippi and preached to them (Acts 16:12-14). The message was a message inspired of God. Miraculous evidence may have been set forth. Such would also be from God. Who opened Lydia’s heart? Paul? Yes. God? Yes. Credit ultimately goes to Him (Article: Fishing For Unknown Causes).

Faith

Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

Many believe that the word “that” refers to faith. They think that God through a direct operation of the Holy Spirit infuses a depraved man with faith.

Let’s assume for a moment that the word “that” does refer to faith. Does anything in the text demand a direct operation of the Holy Spirit? No. What we read elsewhere in the New Testament is that “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Other passages teach the same (Luke 8:11-15; John 5:45-47; 17:20; 20:30-31; Acts 17:11-12; 18:8; Ephesians 1:13-14; 2 Thessalonians 1:10). Faith follows hearing of God’s word. It never is seen as infused before hearing. Nothing suggests a direct operation of the Holy Spirit. Various passages indicate that one can hear and obey before receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:4-5, 12, 14-17; 19:1-6).

However, “that” does not refer to faith. “That” is neuter gender. “Faith” and “grace” are both feminine gender. A.T. Robertson commented that the reference is “not to pistis (faith – B.H.) or charis (grace – B.H.) … but to the act of being saved by grace conditioned on faith on our part” (Word Pictures in the New Testament). Marvin Vincent commented, “that” refers to “not faith, but the salvation” (Word Studies). Roy Deaver commented, “The neuter ‘this’ (Greek tauto) can (and here does) refer to the total subject, rather than to a single word. The subject under consideration here is: Salvation…” (Spiritual Sword Lectures, God’s Amazing Grace, p. 428).

Salvation does not have its source in man (It is not – literally “out of” man). It is a gift from God (note: Gifts can be given on conditions – Joshua 1:2; 6:2 cf. 6:3-5; 6:6-20).

Conviction

John 16:8-11, “And when He (the Holy Spirit, the Helper – B.H.) has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in Me; of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.”

Many assume that the Holy Spirit convicts the world by a direct operation of the Holy Spirit. However, one should draw only such conclusions as are warranted by the evidence.

The immediate context concerns the Holy Spirit coming to inspire the apostles (John 14:26; 5:26-27; 16:12-14). Could the world be convicted of sin by the inspired message proclaimed by the apostles? Absolutely! (See Acts 2:4, 14, 36-37).

The Holy Spirit: (1) Convicted the world of sin. The specific sin in view is the rejection of Jesus (cf. John 16:9). This was accomplished through preaching (Acts 2:4, 14, 36-37). (2) Convicted the world of righteousness. The specific righteousness in view is the righteousness of Jesus (cf. John 16:10). This too was accomplished through preaching (Acts 2:4, 22-37). (3) Convicted the world of judgment. The specific judgment in view is the judgment of Satan (John 16:11). The evidence set forth in Peter’s sermon convinced many that they had been following the wrong prince. All of these things were accomplished through preaching.

Drawn

John 6:44, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up in the last day.”

Many assume that the Father draws men by an irresistible force, a direct operation of the Holy Spirit upon the hearts of men. Please note the text does not implicitly teach such.

How does God draw men? The answer is found in the very next verse. “It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’ Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me” (John 6:45). He draws us by the message (2 Thessalonians 2:14; John 5:36-37, 39; 7:16-17; 12:49-50; 14:24).

The Holy Spirit revealed the word. This word opens our heart, produces faith, convicts man of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and draws man to God.

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Ordinary Folks

Posted on April 25, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

I’ve heard people say things like, “I’m just an ordinary person. What can I do?” They reason that since they lack formal or specialized training and eloquence of speech they are useless in the service of God...

The truth is, God has used ordinary folks throughout history, to do extraordinary things. Consider this partial list: Moses was highly educated (Acts 7:22); Yet, he evidently has speech difficulties (Exodus 4:10). Gideon was a wheat farmer (Judges 6:11). Ruth was a widow (Ruth 1:3-4). David was a shepherd (1 Samuel 16:19; 17:15, 34). Elisha was a plowboy (1 Kings 19:19). Amos was a keeper of sheep and a gatherer of sycamore fruit (Amos 7:14 cf. 1:1). Esther was an orphan (Esther 2:7). Joseph was a carpenter (Matthew 13:55). Peter, Andrew, James and John were fishermen (Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11). They were “unlearned” (i.e. unversed in the learning of the Jewish schools; cf. John 7:15, Thayer) and “ignorant” (“without professional knowledge, unskilled, uneducated, unlearned” Vine’s) by description (Acts 4:13). Paul was highly educated (Acts 22:3 cf. 5:34); yet, it appears that he was not the most polished of speakers (2 Corinthians 10:10; 11:6).

The point is this: God can use you in His service. Don’t make the excuse, “I’m just an ordinary person. I have no special skills. I am no eloquent.” You can do great things in His service!

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Tolerating Evil to Our Own Destruction

Posted on April 23, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

Friends and brethren, I ask you, “are we too comfortable in this world?” Have we still the discomfort of Lot who was “tormented” (“vexed” KJV) by the wickedness of the land (2 Peter 2:7-8)? Or, have we become more like those of Jeremiah’s day who no longer blushed at sin (Jeremiah 6:15)?

Our aim is to look at how the children of Israel tolerated sin to their own destruction. We can be guilty of the same.

Background

Before the children of Israel entered the promised land, God told them: (1) The Canaanites were losing the land due to the fullness of their sins (Genesis 15:16). (2) He would be with them in driving out the Canaanites (Exodus 23:28-ff; 33:2). (3) The conquest wouldn’t occur in one year. It would happen little by little (Exodus 23:29-30). (4) They were to drive them out (Exodus 23:31; Numbers 35:51-52; Deuteronomy 7:2, 5, 16). (5) They were to make no covenants with these people (Exodus 23:31-33; 34:12, 14; Deuteronomy 7:2; Judges 2:3). (6) They were not to marry these people (Exodus 34:16; Deuteronomy 7:3; Joshua 23:12-13). (7) They were not to worship the Canaanite’s gods (Exodus 23:32-33; Deuteronomy 7:4). (8) If you will not comply with my instructions, I will no longer continue to drive them out before you (Numbers 33:55; Joshua 23:12-13; Judges 2:1-3, 19-20). Such will lead to your down fall (Numbers 33:56; Genesis 15:16; cf. Matthew 23:32 cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:15-16).

The Toleration/Compromise

  1. They allowed the Canaanites to remain in the land (Psalm 106:34).

Early on, they seemed to be a people intent on driving out the Canaanites. The walls of Jericho fell by faith (Joshua 6 cf. Hebrews 11:30). We recall the determination of Caleb (Joshua 14:6-12 cf. Judges 1:20). They are described as a generation which “served the LORD” (Joshua 24:31; Judges 2:7). They are described as “obeying the commandments of the LORD” (Judges 2:17).

However, In time, the nation would fail to keep up the good fight (Joshua 16:10; 17:13; Judges 1:27-36; Psalm 106:34).

Why? (a) Some had become too comfortable and at ease (Joshua 17:13; Judges 1:28). They were pre-occupied with their own lives (Deuteronomy 6:10-12a; 8:7-14). Josephus “tired of fighting, the Israelites turned to cultivating the land, and derived wealth and luxury from it unwilling to go to war preferring a life of peace and prosperity” (The Essential Writings, p. 84).

Folks, let us never allow our comfort, and ease, and material possessions to distract us from our task. Read Luke 8:14.

(b) Others came up with what they must have thought was a more practical plan. Once they gained the upper hand on the Canaanites, the tribes of Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, and Naphtali placed a “tribute” (KJV) on the Canaanites or made them “forced laborers” (NKJV/NASB), slaves if you will (See Joshua 16:10; 17:13; Judges 1:28, 30, 33,35; Also – 1 Kings 9:20-21; 2 Chron. 8:7-8). They were never authorized to do this. Matthew Henry, “They spared them out of covetousness that they might profit by their labor and deal with them for tribute (Vol. 2, p. 67).

May we never be guilty of placing business interests ahead of what God says.

(c) In the case of Judah, there was a lack of faith or faithfulness ( Judges 1:18-19 cf. Joshua 17:17-18). The issue was not that God couldn’t drive out iron chariots (Joshua 17:17-18; 11:4- 6; Judges 4:3, 13-16). Brother Tim Ayers has written of Judges 1:18-19: “Perhaps the answer is found in dividing verse 19 into two separate time periods – one in which Judah was faithful and thus successful, and the other in which it had turned away from the Lord and no longer had His support and help cf. Joshua 23:12-13” (13th Annual Denton Lectures, p. 161). This truly was an issue (Joshua 24:12-13 cf. Judges 2:2-3, 20-21).

Let us always remember unfaithfulness will hinder us today as well (James 5:16).

2.  They, in time, began to associate with the Canaanites (Psalm 106:35).

They “mingled” with the heathen. The Bible warns, “He that walks with wise men will be wise, but a companion of fools will be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20). It says, “As iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17). Also consider this warning, “Make no friendship with an angry man, and with a furious man do not go, lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare for your soul” (Proverbs 22:24-25). Also read this, “Be not deceived, evil company (evil communication – KJV / bad company – NASB) corrupts good habits (good manner – KJV / good morals NASB)” (1 Cor. 15:33).

They also intermarried with these people. They were warned against doing this (Exodus 34:12-16; Deuteronomy 7:3-4; Joshua 23:12-13). However, they still did this (Judges 3:6).

Brethren let us set our standards high. Those we make our friends, and especially our mate, will influence us greatly for the better or the worse. If we have children, who we “mingle with,” and especially who we select to the their mother (or father) has much to do with how they turn out, and whether they’ll make it to heaven or not. Let us “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” in all things.

3.  Finally, they learned from them (Psalm 106:35b – 39).

They learned their ways. They, in time, took on many of the Canaanite religious practices (Deuteronomy 18:10-ff cf. 2 Kings 17:13-20; 16:3; 21:6; 23:10; 2 Chronicles 33:6-9; Psalm 106:36-39; Jeremiah 32:35; Ezekiel 16:20-21; 23:37).

May we always be concerned enough religiously speaking to “test all things; (and) hold fast (unto) that which is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21); and to “abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22). Let us never borrow beliefs and practices from false systems of religion.

Understand God did not want us to “go out of the world” (1 Corinthians 5:10).   Jesus did not pray that we be taken “out of the world” (John 17:15). Instead we are to be in the world but not of the world (John 17:15, 16; John 15:19). Let us be careful to be influencing the world in a positive direction instead of allowing the world to influence us in an evil way.

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