Jesus: His Pre-Existence

Posted on May 24, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

Did Jesus exist before His earthly birth?  The Bible affirms YES!

Let us begin by examining John 1:15, which reads, “John bore witness of him and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.”  John 1:15 ASV reads, “This was he of whom I said, He that cometh after me is become before me for he was before me.”  I quote from brother Roy Lanier, Sr., “There are two Greek words in this statement which are translated by our one word before.  When John said he ‘has come before me,’ He used emprosthen, which gives the sense of priority of rank or position or dignity… and when he said, ‘for he was before me,’ he used the protos a word meaning ‘in order of time.’  So although, Jesus was born after John, He existed before John was born”  (The Timeless Trinity, p. 158).  W.E. Vines Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words agrees saying, “‘Protos’ signifies first, or at the first… in order of time,’ ” while saying, “‘emprosthen’ is used of place or position only.”  McCord’s translated it this way, “The one who comes after me is my superior, for he existed before me.”  Estes’ Better Version renders it, “He who comes after me, ranks before me for he was before me.”  The RSV* reads, “He who comes after me ranks before me, for he was before me.”   The NASB reads, “He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.”  So the Logos predates John.

But not only so, He also predates Abraham.  In John 8:58 Jesus said, “Verily, verily I say unto you, before Abraham was (born – ASV) I am.”  The word “before” is the word which has reference to time.  More significant here though are the tenses.  Listen to the words of brother Guy N. Woods, “The verbs here are quite significant.  That with reference to Abraham signifies to begin, to come to be; that of Christ to be evermore existing.  There was a point in history when Abraham came into existence; before this, he was not; but of Christ it is affirmed that he always existed.  The tense is timeless present and conveys the same notion as… (Exodus 3:14).”  (A Commentary on John, p. 181).  Robert Taylor Jr., “The Lord did not say, ‘I was before Abraham.’ He employed language that only deity can use accurately – I AM” (Studies in the Gospel of John, p. 130-131).  Lenski wrote, “As the aorist sets the point of beginning for existence of Abraham, so the present tense ‘I AM’ predicates absolute existence for the person of Jesus with no point of beginning at all” (The Interpretation of St. John, p. 670).

The Biblical evidence is abundant and clear.  Jesus’ birth wasn’t His beginning (except in the sense of His earthly existence).  He existed in glory before the world was even made (John 17:5).  He took part in the creationary week (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2).  John 3:13, “And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of Man which is in heaven.”  His home before coming to earth was heaven.  His going forth hs been from “everlasting” (eternity – NASB) Micah 5:2.

*While this is not an endorsement of the RSV, I do believe that this particular scripture in the RSV was done correctly.

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“God Gave Them Up…”

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

These words, or words very near this, are found three times in Romans chapter one: (1) v. 24, “Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves.” (2) v. 26, “For this reason God gave them up to vile passions.  For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.” (3) v. 28, “And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting.”  The question is:  what is the meaning?

I recall hearing someone once say that this meant that God gave up the Gentile people and chose the Jews.  This, however, cannot be the meaning of these words, for, God is likewise said at times to have given up the Jews (Psalm 81:11-12; Acts 7:40-42a).  So what do these words mean?  R.L. Whiteside explained: “When people are determined to reject God for their own way, God allows them unhindered to follow their chosen course so that they may the sooner see the degradation that comes to those who follow their own wisdom” (Robert L. Whiteside, A New Commentary on Paul’s Letter to the Saints at Rome, p. 34).  B.J. Clark has commented, “If man persists in living to fulfill his carnal desire, God will not prevent him from doing such, nor will He prevent him from reaping the consequences or his transgressions” (Annual Denton Lectures Studies in Romans, page 57).

The point is man can be his own worst enemy.  Much of the misery we experience, we bring upon ourselves.  “The way of transgressors is hard” (Proverbs 13:15).  Keeping God’s instructions will keep up from much unnecessary trouble and sorrow.

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Seven Sayings From The Cross: Trust/Commitment

Posted on May 19, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

The last words which we have recorded of Jesus speaking from the cross are, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit” (Luke 23:46).  Then, we’re told, “having said this, he breathed His last” (Luke 23:46).

I find it significant that his dying words were addressed to the Father.  Jesus is recorded as speaking seven times from the cross (Luke 23:34; Luke 23:43; John 19:26-27; Matt. 27:46; John 19:28; John 19:30; Luke 23:46).  Three of these times are words which are addressed to the Father (Luke 23:34; Matt. 27:46; Luke 23:46).  Jesus was a man of prayer.  He prayed publicly (Mark 6:38-44 cf. John 6:11; Mark 8:5-9 cf. Matt. 15:35-38; Mark 14:22-23 cf. Luke 22:19-20).  He prayed privately (Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12; John 6:15 cf. Mark 6:46; Luke 9:28; Mark 14:32).

Question: How often do you commune with God in prayer?

Furthermore, I find it significant that Jesus quoted scripture.  Twice from the cross, he quoted scripture (Matt. 27:46 cf. Psalm 22:1; Luke 23:46 cf. Psalm 31:5).  Jesus was a man of the book.  Jesus said things like “have ye not read?” (Matt. 12:3 12:5; 19:4; 21:16; 21:42; 22:31; 24:15)… “it is written” (Matt. 4:4; 4:7; 4:10; 11:10; 21:13; 26:24; 26:31)…  “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God” (Matt. 22:29).   He taught “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God”(Matthew 4:4).

Question: Is God’s word flowing from your lips?

 Jesus clearly trusted in God, “into thy hands I commend my spirit.” The word “commit”(NKJV) or “commend” (KJV) means “to place with someone, entrust, commit” (W.E. Vine) … commit to one’s charge… to commend one to another for protection, safety, etc.” (J.H. Thayer).   Jesus’ words are much like those of Paul: “I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed unto him against that day” (2 Timothy 1:12).

Question: How is your faith?

One last point: Jesus knew where to leave things.  The Jewish leaders had behaved wickedly.  Pilate had behaved cowardly.  An injustice had been done.  He was suffering.  He was dying.  The mob was cruel.  Yet, he did not lower himself to the level of others.  He did not curse at them, or spit at them.  He committed himself to God.  Peter wrote, “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow his steps: ‘Who committed no sin, nor was deceit (guile KJV) found in His mouth’; who, when he was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threatened, but committed (kept entrusting NASB; continued entrusting ESV) Himself to Him who judges righteously” (1 Peter 2:21-23).  He is our example in how to deal with injustice.

Question: When injustice is done to you do you commit yourself to the righteous judge knowing that justice will be done? 

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Seven Sayings From The Cross: Purpose

Posted on May 17, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

Multitudes journey through this thing we call life void of any clear goal, sense of mission, or idea of purpose.  Life is just life.  There is nothing in particular that they wish to accomplish.  They are just here, aimlessly drifting through life.

Others possess an understanding of purpose, and a sense of mission.  They have a goal(s) they wish to accomplish in this life. However, a large number in this group fail to achieve their goal(s).  Some are hindered by procrastination.  Others are hindered by velleity, on the most basic level they desire to accomplish the goal(s), but they lack the discipline and energy to make it happen.  Some are easily distracted with the “cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection” (Luke 8:14).

Jesus was unlike the two groups we’ve just mentioned.  (1) He understood His mission.  Even from youth, he said, “I must be about My Father’s business” (Luke 2:49).  He later said things like “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work” (John 4:34)… “the works which the Father has given Me to finish – the very works… I do” (John 5:36)… “the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10)… “What shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour” (John 12:27).  (2) He not only understood his mission, he had the dedication, determination and discipline, focus and fortitude to finish it… Jesus said on the cross, “It is finished!” (John 19:30).  A casual reading might prompt one to conclude that Jesus meant, “I am finished.”  However, this is not what Jesus is saying.  The wording connects nicely with other similar words of Jesus found in the book of John.  Early in his ministry he said, “My food is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work” (John 4:34) and “the works which the Father has given Me to finish – the very works… I do” (John 5:36).  Nearing his death, he prayed, “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do” (John 17:4).  Then, on the cross he said “It is finished!” (John 19:30).  It was for this cause he had come (John 12:27).  If we take these words together, it becomes evident that “It is finished” refers to his work.

The apostle Paul also fulfilled his role on earth.  Approaching death he said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7), and he urged Timothy “fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5).

Are we fulfilling our roles?  Do we have the dedication, determination, and discipline, focus and fortitude to finish what we should?

Our mission is to live a life which glorifies God (Matthew 5:16; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 10:31; Philippians 1:20).  Our lives are to be dedicated unto him as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1-2).  We are to love him with all of our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31).  We are to fear him and keep his commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13 cf. John 14:15).  These are things we should understand and accomplish upon this earth.

We  should so live that when we come to the end of life we can say, “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work You have given Me to do” (John 17:4).

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Seven Sayings From The Cross: Humanity

Posted on May 15, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

“I thirst” (John 19:28).  “My tongue cleaveth to my jaws” (Psalm 22:15).  Thirst was something which went with death by crucifixion.  “The suffering of death by crucifixion was intense, especially in hot climates.  Severe local inflammation, coupled with an insignificant bleeding of jagged wounds produced traumatic fever, which was aggravated by the exposure to the heat of the sun, the strained position of the body and insufferable thirst (emphasis mine).  The wounds swelled about the rough nails and the torn and lacerated tendons and nerves caused excruciating agony.  The arteries of the head and stomach were surcharged with blood and a terrific throbbing headache ensued… Tetanus not rarely supervened and the rigors of the attending convulsions would tear at the wounds and add to the burden of pain…” (I.S.B.E., Vol. 2, p. 761).

Jesus was human.  Lee Strobel quotes Craig Everns as saying, “How human was Jesus?  For a lot… The human side of Jesus is superficial.  It is almost as though a lot of Christians think of Jesus as God wearing a mask.  He’s sort of faking it, pretending to perspire, his stomach only appear to gurgle… he’s not really hungry.  In fact, he doesn’t really need to eat” (The Case for the Real Jesus, p. 61).  Jesus wasn’t faking it.  He was fully human.  He grew tired and weary (John 4:6).  He needed sleep (Mark 4:38).  He experienced hunger (Matt. 4:2) and thirst (John 4:6-7; 19:2).  He “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15).  Yes, he was God in the flesh; But, let us not forget that he was in the flesh.  He willfully experienced all limitations of being made like us (Romans 8:3; Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 2:17).  He “emptied” himself (Philippians 2:7 NASB).  He gave not up his deity; But he gave up the independent exercise of super-human and/or supernatural divine abilities.  While on earth his knowledge was limited (Mark 13:32).  The power behind his inspired speech and miraculous workings was not that he was God in the flesh.  The source was the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:18-19; Matthew 12:26-28; Acts 10:38), the same source of the inspiration and power that was upon the apostles.  It was not until after the Holy Spirit came upon him that Jesus is said to know what was within man (John 2:25 cf. 1:47-48), and to begin to work miracles (John 2:11).

Jesus on the cross thirsted.  He was first offered wine mingled with myrrh, but upon tasting it he refused to drink (Mark 15:23; Matthew 27:34).  Myrrh was bitter. It is called “gall” in Matthew.  The mixture was a pain medication commonly offered to those being crucified.  Jesus was suffering for humanity.  This pain he refused to numb.  He later was offered a sponge of vinegar, of this he drank (Matthew 27:48; Mark 15:36; John 19:28-30).  There was no indication of this being mixed with any narcotic.

Jesus went through this for us!  He was fully human.  We should remember this when we feel like giving up: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider him that endures such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.  Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin” (Hebrews 12:2-4).

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Seven Sayings From The Cross: Aloneness

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

The chronology:  (1) Jesus was with Pilate the sixth hour Roman time, or 6 AM (John 19:14).  Note: John used Roman time see John 20:19.  (2) Jesus was crucified the third hour of the day Jewish time, or 9 AM (Mark 15:25).  (3) The sky was darkened from the sixth hour until the ninth hour, or 12 PM ‘til 3 PM (Mark 15:33).  This darkness is acknowledged by first century historians such as Thallus and Phlegon (Josh McDowell, Evidence That Demands A Verdict, vol. 1, p 84).  Thallus explained it away as an eclipse of the sun.  Phlegon however pointed out that it occurred during the full moon.  He’s correct.  A new month started with a new moon.  Passover occurred on the fourteenth day of the month (Leviticus 23:5).  This would be the period of the full moon, making a solar eclipse by the moon impossible.  (4) He then died.

It was during, this period of darkness that he cried with a loud voice, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34 cf. Psalm 22:1).

What do these words mean?  One thing I know is that it does not mean that Jesus thought the cross meant failure.  He clearly knew that the cross was in God’s plan (Matthew 16:21; 20:17-19; 26:26-28).  He endured what he did “for the joy that was set before him” (Hebrews 12:2).

1.  The common explanation is that God distanced Himself.  He is of purer eyes then to behold evil (Habakkuk 1:13).  Sin separates man from God (Isaiah 59:1-2).  Jesus was bearing the sum total of the sins of humanity.

Some have taken the position that Jesus literally became guilty of all the sins of the world based on the wording of 2 Corinthians 5:21. However, The word “sin” in 2 Corinthians 5:21 is actually a figure of speech (metonymy) the cause (sin) is being put for the effect (sin offering) [see Exodus 29:14 (the word ‘offering’ is not in the original, see ASV); Hosea 4:8 (‘sin’ here being used for sin offering); also Hebrews 9:28]. Jesus was a lamb without spot or blemish (1 Peter 1:18).  He is our great High Priest “holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners” (Hebrews 7:25-26).  He did not become literally guilty of sin.  He no more became guilty of sin than did the scapegoat of old (Leviticus 16:15 –ff; 16:20 – ff).

2.  Another view is that Jesus is asking for relief (Psalm 22:1-2).  However, none was to be found.  Thus taking the Psalm as a whole we have Jesus saying, “I know this will work out in the end; But God can’t I have just a bit of relief?”  This I believe to be the correct position.

3.  Yet, another view is that this is Jesus speaking from the viewpoint of people.  Jesus, before the eyes of men, looked forsaken (Psalm 22:7-8).  However, such was not the case (Psalm 22:23 –ff).  This view takes Psalm 22:1 as sarcasm.  William Cline wrote, “instead of Jesus complaining of being left alone, he was in fact declaring his total trust in God, and his confidence that his heavenly father would never forsake him” (4th Annual Shenandoah Lectures, p. 484).

Some think that Jesus was making another effort to reach some of these people.  The Bible wasn’t divided into chapters and verses at this time.  One way of referencing a Psalm was by quoting the first words of a Psalm.  Thus, it is thought that by Jesus using these words “My God, My God…..” he would be bringing their minds to consider the out-come of the Psalm, that he was not forsaken in the bigger picture (Psalm 22:24).

If this is what Jesus was attempting it didn’t work on some.  Perhaps, his speech was unclear at this point.  They said, “This man calleth for Elias (Elijah)” (Matthew 27:47, 49).  [Elijah you’ll recall was to appear before the Messiah (Malachi 4:5).  The reference is to John (Matthew 11:13-14), who came in the spirit and power of Elijah (Luke 1:17, cf. 2 Kings 2:15).  Moreover, Elijah himself did appear (Matthew 17:1-4)].

Conclusion

Whether one takes the position that Jesus was in some way forsaken by God (views 1 and 2) or that Jesus was just forsaken from the view-point of the people (view 3), one thing is clear.  Jesus endured much from the cross.  “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrow, and acquainted with grief” (Isaiah 53:3; cf. Psalm 22:6).

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Seven Sayings From The Cross: Family

Posted on May 11, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

Willard Cox has written, “since death by crucifixion was slow, the dying men had plenty of time to talk.  The language of these men was often ugly with bitter cursing, false cries of innocence and pleas for help.  While Jesus was on the cross He spoke seven times, but his words were different.  He spoke words of forgiveness, salvation, benevolence, atonement, humanity, completion and fellowship” (Seven Sayings of the Suffering Savior, intro).  Jesus spoke seven times from the cross and one of these had to do with his mother.

“When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold your son!’  Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold your mother!’ And from that hour the disciple took her to his home.” (John 19:26-27).

The words to Mary, “Behold your son,” I think refers to John.  Paraphrase – “Mary, look at John. He will be your son.”

The words “Behold your mother,” are addressed to John.  Paraphrase – ” John, I want you to treat Mary as if she is your mother.”

Get this! Jesus is dying, but he is thinking of his mother.  He is in pain, but is thinking of her well-being. It is thought that Mary’s husband (Joseph) is already dead.  Her sons (James, Joses, Simon, and Judas) and her daughters (Matthew 13:55-56; Mark 6:3) may have been unable to adequately care for her; or, it may be that they were rejected as care givers due to their present unbelief (John 7:5).  Whatever the case, Jesus entrusted the care of his mother to John.  John was a nephew to Mary (Matthew 27:55-56; Mark 15:40; cf. John 19:25).  John was evidently the closest disciple to Jesus.  Tradition says that John took care of Mary until her death twelve years later.

We too need to love our mothers.  We should honor them in tongue (Proverbs 31:28).  We should honor them in deed (I Timothy 5:8, 16).

Your mother nursed you, changed your diapers, perhaps taught you morals from the Bible, helped you with your school work, prepared food for you, shopped for your clothing and so many other things.  HONOR HER THIS AND EVERY DAY!

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Seven Sayings From The Cross: Salvation

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

Jesus wasn’t the only one being crucified on that day.  There were two others, one on each side of Jesus (Matthew 27:38).  They were thieves (KJV) or more literally robbers (NASB, NKJV, ESV).  A thief (kleptos) steals with stealth or speed.  A robber (lastas) does so by force.

While Jesus was upon the cross even these men,  both of them it seems,  mocked him (Matthew 27:41-44; Mark 15:32).  They too were dying, still they lashed out at him.

As time elapsed, one of these men, evidently,  had a softening of heart.  He acknowledged Jesus’ righteousness, and he and the other robber’s sin (Luke 23:39-41).  He even expressed faith in Jesus and his kingdom (Luke 23:42).

Jesus responded, “Today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43).  “Paradise,” as used here, does not refer to heaven itself; instead, it refers to the blissful side of hades (John 20:17; Acts 2:27).

The Jehovah Witnesses have a difficult time with a conscious existence without a body.  Thus, they punctuate the verse, “truly I tell you today, you will be with me in Paradise” (NWT).  Such a reading seems odd.  One certainly finds passage in which Jesus says, “I tell you” (e.g. Luke 4:25; 9:27; 10:24; 12:51, 59; 13:3, 5, 27; 17:34; 18:8, 14; 19:40), or “I say unto you” (e.g. Luke 7:9, 14, 26, 28, 40, 47; 10:10, 12; 11:8, 9, 51; 12:4, 5, 8, 22, 27, 37, 44; 13:24, 35; 14:24; 15:7, 10; 16:9; 18:17, 29; 19:26; 21:3, 32; 22:16, 18, 37), but where is the passage when Jesus says, “I say unto you today, …..?”  I don’t find it.  I do find, however, Jesus saying that something would happen “today” [(e.g. Luke 19:9; 22:34) – Also notice Hebrews 3:15].  Furthermore, the scriptures do speak of a conscious existence, on the other side (e.g. Luke 18:19 –ff; 9:28 –ff; I Samuel 28:1 –ff).

Don’t miss the point. We see Jesus’ concern for others.  Moreover, we see his willingness to forgive.  What a lesson for each of us to learn!

Some have insisted that this teaches that one can be saved without baptism.  It does no such thing.  Consider the following points:

(1) How does one know that this one hadn’t been baptized?  Many of that land had been (Mark 1:4-5; John 4:1).  He could have been baptized, then returned to sin, but finally was repenting of his sins.  No one knows that he wasn’t baptized.  This man obviously knew something of Jesus, his character and his teaching concerning the kingdom.

(2) This man did not live under the new covenant.  It didn’t go into force until after Jesus’ death (Hebrews 9:15-17).  It was not until after Jesus’ burial and resurrection that it is stated, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.”  (Mark 16:16).  Moreover, New Covenant baptism is into the death of Christ.  It symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6).  Jesus had not yet done those things.

(3) While on earth Jesus forgave sin (Mark 2:10) with varying conditions (Luke 18:18–23; 19:8-10; Mark 2:1-11).  Even his conditions for healing varied (Matthew 9:27-30; Mark 7:31-37; 8:22-26; Luke 17:11-14; Jn 9:6-7 -cf.  Naaman 2 Kings 5).  He knew the hearts (John 2:25) and thus likely dispensed these things as he saw fit.  Once he died his covenant went into force.  His conditions are uniform for all.

(4) Why is it the case that people are quick to run to this situation?  The thief couldn’t come down and be baptized if he wanted to do such; yet folks who can be baptized used this as an excuse for themselves.

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Seven Sayings From The Cross: Forgiveness

Posted on May 7, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

An injustice had been done.  An innocent man had been condemned to die a horrible death by crucifixion.  Humanity cruelly mocked, ridiculed, and laughed him to scorn while he was in pain and agony.  One could understand why such a man would be filled with anger, bitterness, and even hatred.

However, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34a).  The literal force of the imperfect tense suggests that He prayed this over and over. “Of all the seven sayings of Jesus from the cross three of them were prayers….. in this crucified condition Jesus could not use His hands to help the needy; they were nailed to the cross. He could not use His feet to walk through Samaria; they were pierced and fastened to the cross.  But Jesus could still do something:  His tongue was not pierced.  His mouth would work, so He prayed.  In that condition Jesus did what He could . . .  Jesus did not pray for himself.  He prayed for His enemies” (Willard Cox, Seven Sayings of the Suffering, Savior, p. 1).

This was completely consistent with His teaching.  He taught “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you, and prosecute you” (Matthew5:44).  We all know that such is easier to say than to do.  Jesus practiced what He preached.

If you were in His position on the cross is this how you would have responded?  Do you and I still need to grow in our love for our fellow-man?  Likely so!

Let us ask the question: Was Jesus praying that they be forgiven right then and there, without any change at all?  I do not believe that Jesus was praying for such.  If He was, understand that God did not immediately wipe their sins away without conditions.  Though, He did provided them an opportunity for forgiveness less than two months later (Acts 2:36-38; 3:13-15; 17; 19).  Brother Tyler Young has written, “He was not asking God to clear them of all guilt regardless of whether or not they persisted in their treachery; He was expressing, a desire that God grant them opportunity to repent that they might be forgiven” (Tract; When Should I Forgive My Brother?; p.4).  I think this is correct.  God could have struck them dead on the spot for doing what they did.  However Jesus wanted them to have an opportunity to repent.  He knew that many had done what they did out of ignorance of the truth.

Another question:  Do we pray for others, even our enemies, as Jesus did?  I want to be more like Him; what about you?

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Ethics: Legal

Posted on May 2, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

There are well over a million lawyers in the U.S.A. (1,143,358 as of the end of 2007. Source: wiki.answers.com). There are more per capita here than anywhere. There are only about 954,000 physicians (www.wsj.com).

There are also many lawsuits in the U.S.A., over 16 million civil cases were filed in state courts in 2002 (www.sixwise.com). “Seventy-six percent of American obstetricians have been sued at least once” (Thomas Sowell, Applied Economics, p. 69). ” According to an article in the London Financial Times, June 22, 1991 of all the lawsuits that were filed around the world in 1988 and 1989, a staggering 94 percent were filed in the United States alone … current statistics from the American Bar Association show that if you live in California, and make more than $50,000 a year, there is almost a one-in-four chance that you will be sued” (Anthony Robbins, Await the Giant Within, p. 168).

Is this good? Some think so. It means that in America, wrongs can be redressed.

However, there are also negatives to our society of easy lawsuits. The ease of lawsuits has: (1) Diminished personal responsibility. Stella Liebeck sued McDonald’s and won $2.9 million (later reduced to $640,000) after she spilt McDonald’s coffee and burned herself. (John Stossel, Give Me a Break, p. 165). “From the European perspective it seems that Americans are always looking for someone to blame when anything goes wrong” (Anthony Robbins, p. 468). (2) Increased medical procedures. Many doctors admit to running tests, that they feel are unnecessary, out of fear of lawsuits. This is called “defensive medicine” (Sowell, p. 70). “According to The Economist, ‘few clinicians think that babies get cerebral palsy because the obstetrician failed to deliver them by caesarean section.’ Yet ‘fear of being sued prompts doctors to perform unnecessary C-sections …’ Nevertheless, ‘a five-fold increase in C-sections in rich countries in the past three decades has brought no decrease in the incidence of cerebral palsy’” (Sowell, p. 69). (3) Increased everyone’s cost.  “In particular specialties, such  as  obstetrics  and neurosurgery, the cost of malpractice insurance can exceed $200,000 a year, in some places. These cost of course gets passed on to the patient, the government, or whoever is paying for medical treatments” (Sowell, p. 68).

Witnesses

I had been called for jury selection.  During jury selection, the prosecutor asked the group of anyone would be unable to convict if there were not at least two  eye-witnesses to the crime.  She said that some thought that the Bible taught such (Numbers 36:30; Deuteronomy 17:6-7; 19:15; Matthew 18:6; 1 Timothy 5:19, 22).  A few indicated that they could not convict without at least two eye-witnesses.  They were dismissed.

Does the Bible teach that unless there be two eye-witnesses, we shouldn’t convict?  The Old Covenant did demand two or more witnesses for conviction (Numbers 35:30; Deuteronomy 17:6-7; 19:15).  The New Covenant does seem to demand the same (Matthew 18:6; 1 Timothy 5:19, 22).  I have heard that some Roman Catholic priests, and Jehovah Witness leaders have appealed to such when their churches question them about child molestation accusations.  Here is a point to remember: Evidence can serve as a witness (John 5:31-36; 1 John 5:9; 2 Peter 1:18-19).

The Bible teaches that one should not be convicted on the word of one individual.  There must be more evidence than one person’s word.  If the State accuses someone of something, and there is sufficient evidence to back up that accusation, then conviction is possible.  Eye-witnesses are not demanded.

Confidentiality

What if someone has confessed a crime to me (either already committed, or planned to be committed) confiding in me?  Should I reveal such to authorities?  What if I promised to keep such a secret?

The general teachings of the Bible is that we’re to be protective of others.  Consider the following passages: (1) “A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter” (Proverbs 11:13 cf. Leviticus 19:16).  (2) “Debate your case with your neighbor, and do not disclose the secret to another” (Proverbs 25:9 cf. Matthew 18:15-19).  (3) Love “bears all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7). McCord’s reads, “throw a cloak of silence over what is displeasing in another.”  Arndt-Gingrich defines the word to mean, “to cover, to keep confidential”.  Steve Williams comments, “Instead of trying to broadcast all the dirt and filth we know about other people through gossip, let us speak to others the best we can.  Let us quietly work to help others correct their faults” (The More Excellent Way, p. 37-38).

However, there are times when things should not be kept covered.  (1) Legally, disclosure is demanded at times (Leviticus 5:1; Deuteronomy 13:6-8; Proverbs 29:24).  We are to be a law-abiding people (Romans 13:1-ff).  (2) Love for others demands disclosure at times (Matthew 7:12; Romans 13:8-10).  Imagine if disclosure could prevent terrorism, rape or murder – could one remain silent?  (3) Sometimes in order to help save a soul disclosure is necessary (Matthew 18:15-ff; 1 Corinthians 1:11; 11:18).

What if a promise of secrecy had been made?  (1) The Old Covenant taught that men should be careful in what they promise (cf. Ecclesiastes 5:5).  However, there was a provision for rash vows (Leviticus 5:4-6).  (2) Common sense seems to tell us that sins of the lips should not be magnified in action (or lack of action).  Illustration: If I swore to another that I would kill you, should I keep my word?  Or should I repent for swearing what I never should have sworn?  Illustration: If I swore that I never would attend the assembly of the church again, should I keep my word?  Or should I repent for saying such?  There are some things which never should be promised.

Oaths

You’re called to the witness stand.  You’re instructed to place your left hand on the Bible and raise your right hand.  Then, you’re asked, “Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?”  God is sometimes invoked as a witness to this oath.

This practice is ancient.  It goes back to at least medieval Europe.  The right hand was raised in medieval Europe because in medieval Europe felons were often branded on the palm of the right hand, and felons were disqualified as witnesses.

This tradition was carried over into our own country.  Zephaniah Swift (a founding father) said, “An oath is a solemn appeal to the Supreme Being that he who takes it will speak the truth, and an imprecation of His vengeance if he swears false” (David Barton, Original Intent, p. 33).  In the early days of this country some witnesses were rejected who did not believe in God (ibid).

However, some have religious problems with this legal custom.  This objection is based upon the following passages: Matthew 5:33-37; Matthew 23:16-22; James 5:12.

There are internal things in these passages which help us to understand the issue: (1) It is clear from Matthew 23, that the Jews viewed some oaths as binding and others as not binding (or at least not as strongly binding).  Guy Woods commented, “Some rabbis held that one was bound to tell the truth only when the names of Deity were mentioned… but if His name were not included in the oath any promise made one did not have to keep.  Thus, by trickery, and evasive methods, by skillful use of words, many in that day callously broke their promises and violated their oaths” (The Epistle of James, p. 289).  (2) James says, “do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath” (James 5:12).  The word “other” is “allos”, meaning “another of the same kind”.  Not all oaths are being forbidden but a certain kind of oath.  The words “heaven” and “earth” take one back to Matthew 23:16-22.

There are external things to consider: (1) God, under the Old Covenant, regulated oath taking (see Leviticus 19:12; Numbers 30:2; Deuteronomy 23:21-23, etc).  Therefore, it can’t be that the Pharisees were being rebuked for taking oaths.  (2) God swears (Hebrews 6:13; Acts 2:30; Luke 1:72).  (3) Paul, under the New Covenant, swore (Romans 1:9; 2 Corinthians 1:23; Galatians 1:20; Philippians 1:8).

The term “swear” means to take an oath, to make a promise, to vow.  If all oath-taking is wrong, then what about: (1) marriage vows? (2) business loans/contracts?

The Government has wanted to remind society how serious it is to testify falsely.  They have wanted to remind man or God.  I have no problem with such; However, Christians should tell the truth regardless of whether he is sworn in or not.

Note: If you have conscientious objections to the process, there are now legal alternatives to the traditional oath.

 Suing

Let us consider, the ethics of brother suing brother.  The Corinthian brethren were rebuked for how they were handling issues which occurred between brethren (1 Corinthians 6:1-7). Some, it seems, thought that the primary place (even the first stop) to settle real or imagined grievances was in government courts of law.

Jesus had already spoken on how to handle a situation of personal sin between brethren (Matthew 18:15-17). Were they not involving brethren, as steps two and three required in Matthew 18, but instead relying upon the court? Did there issues involve sin? Not all difficulties or injuries between brethren involve sin. Example: A brother, literally steps on a sister’s toe, breaking it. Example: A sister accidentally backs her car into a brother’s car in the church parking lot. Example: A brother loans a brother a certain item. The item is stolen while in the possession of the borrower (I’ve seen all of these things take place). None of these examples involves a brother sinning against a brother. However, damage was done. Should brothers rush to court against brother?

Paul reasoned with the brethren at Corinth, saying: (1) There ought to be someone within the congregation who can help settle a difference between brethren (1 Corinthians 6:5). At least some at Corinth prided themselves in their wisdom (see 1 Corinthians 4:10; 10:15; 2 Corinthians 11:19). If they were so wise, then couldn’t they handle some of these issues in the church? (2) There ought to be more wisdom in the church, than there is in a non-believing Roman judge (1 Corinthians 6:4). J.W. McGarvey commented: “If called on as a church to judge any matter, would you choose its simpletons and numbskulls as judges? I ask this to make you ashamed, for you do even more foolishly when you submit your cases to worldings…” (Thes. Cor., Gal., Rom, p. 75). (3) Do you not know that the saints will judge the world and angels? (1 Corinthians 6:2-3). The words “do you not know …” seems to be Paul chiding them for their self-appraised wisdom (1 Corinthians 6:2, 3, 9, 15, 16, 19). How will we judge the world and angels? (a) Some think that Christ actually will allow us to take part in the final judgment. I know of no clear passage which teaches such. (b) It probably is a reference to the fact that the message which we believe, obey, and proclaim is the message by which man will be judge (cf. Romans 2:16). Moreover, it is a message which declares judgment upon certain angels (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6). (c) It could be a reference to our example which condemns the lack of proper response in others (cf. Hebrews 11:7; Matthew 12:41-42). The passage is difficult. The point isn’t. You should have enough wisdom to properly handle these type issues. (4) Some of these lawsuits are frivolous or even attempts to cheat another (1 Corinthians 6:8). (5) If you have been wronged, why not bear the wrong (1 Corinthians 6:7)? Sometimes it is better to suffer the loss [obviously, we’re not speaking of a situation which would result in a man being unable to provide for his family (1 Timothy 5:8)]. It is better to suffer a loss than to destroy harmony in the church (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 1:27; 2:1; Hebrews 12:14; Romans 12:19). It is better to suffer loss than to endanger a brother’s soul (Romans 14:20-21; 1 Corinthians 8:13; 10:33-34).  It is better to suffer loss than to bring reproach on the body of Christ [it seems to me that this was a great concern of Paul’s in this book. Their behavior was dimming the light of the Gospel. The church was: (a) Divided (1 Corinthians 1:2; cf. John 17:20-23); (b) Tolerating shocking sin that even the non-Christian wasn’t typically engaged (1 Corinthians 5:1; cf. Romans 2:24); (c) Worshipping in such a manner that others would think of them as mad (1 Corinthians 14:23). (d) Suing one another (1 Corinthians 6:1-ff; cf. John 13:35; 1 Corinthians 13:4-ff)].

Does this passage (1 Corinthians 6) forbid all usage of the judicial system to settle differences between church members? I do not believe that it does. Consider the issue of marriage, divorce, and remarriage (Matthew 19:9). How could this issue possibly be handled within the church alone? If one remarries (even if the church says that it’s permitted) without a court declaration of divorce, the government calls such bigamy. Bigamy is a crime. Aren’t we to obey the laws of the land? This illustration should help us to see that not all usage of the judicial system is in view.

However, while this passage may not forbid the use of the court system in every circumstance; it does teach a clear point. We are to seek to handle disputes between brethren within the church.

Meditate on the following:

1. John 13:35—“By this all will know that you are my disciples. If you have love for one another.”

2. Romans 12:18—“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”

3. 1 Corinthians 13:4-ff—“Love suffers long and is kind … is not provoked …”

4. Hebrews 12:14— “Pursue pence with all people, and holiness, without which no one will sue the Lord.”

5. Philippians 4:5— “Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men (NASB).

Note:The purpose of this ethics series has not only been to provide ethical answers to modern problems, but also to remind us of certain things.  Things like: (1) Every issue should be tested by the scriptures (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).  (2) The Bible contains the answer to issues affecting every area of life.  (3) The Bible, in principle, speaks to even modern-day concerns.

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