The Works of the Flesh / The Fruit of the Spirit (One More Time)

Posted on August 20, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

 We have looked at “The works of the flesh” and “The fruit of the Spirit”.  Yet, there are still some things left untouched in our study.  This writing will seek to deal with these untouched issues.

1.  Notice the wording “The works of the flesh” is plural; while, “the fruit of the spirit” is singular (Gal. 5:19, 22).  Why is this the case?  It seems to me the answer is this: (A) If one is fleshly minded, following the impulses of the flesh he’ll have at least some of these type fleshly traits.  He may not possess all of them, but still be fleshly minded.  He may not be a murderer, but be filled with hatred.  He may not be an adulterer, but yet a fornicator.  One can be a fleshly minded person by being lascivious, but having never practiced witchcraft.  (B) However, if one is truly following the Spirit’s teachings he can’t pick and choose.  He’ll strive to have all of these listed graces in his life.  They go together.

 May we remember the words of Paul, “They that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace… for if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body (the works of the flesh – B.H.; on the word mortify cross-reference Col. 3:5) ye shall live (Rom. 8:5-6, 13).

2.  What does it mean to be “led by the Spirit” (Gal. 5:18).  Some have thought that this refers to an overwhelming of the Spirit which leaves no choice in the human.  Let it be pointed out that the term “led” in no way implies that one is overwhelmed and without choice (see 1 Cor. 12:2; 2 Tim. 3:6 – which of these passages demand an overwhelming leaving no free will?).  Furthermore, the fact of choice is implied by the command “walk in the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16).  This is a command!  Being “led by the Spirit” simply  means to be submissive to what the Holy Spirit teaches [To resist the Spirit is to reject and not keep the law, and even to persecute God’s prophets (Acts 7:51-53)].

3.  Why is it called “The fruit of the Spirit”?  The answer is that it is so-called because the Holy Spirit is the revealer of God’s truth (Eph. 2:18, 20 cf. 3:1-5; 2 Peter 1:21).

This revealed message when followed produces fruit (Luke 8:15).  Each of the graces (or characteristics) mentioned are things taught in the word of God, and such was revealed by the Spirit (for instance ‘love’ John 13:34; 1 Cor. 13:1-ff).

4.  What does it mean when it speaks of “The works of the flesh”?

The wording “the works of the flesh” should not be taken as saying that flesh itself is inherently evil.  God called His creation very good (Gen. 1:26, 31).  We are marvelously created (Psalm 139:14).  Jesus dwelt in the same flesh that we do (John 1:1, 14; Heb. 2:14; 5:5-7; 10:20; 2 John 7).

The wording is simply a reference to man following His own will and desires apart, and even against God (cf. Jeremiah 10:23; with John 6:28-29).  We dwell in fleshly bodies.  These bodies have certain wants and needs.  These basic desires of men are not necessarily wrong.  However, there is a right way to deal with these things, and a wrong way.  Satan uses our fleshly needs, wants and desires to tempt us to do wrong.

5.  What does it mean when it says “But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law”?  It certainly does not mean that man is under (that is amenable to) no law today.  If we be under no law as Christians, then it would not be possible for us to sin (see Rom. 4:15; 5:13; 1 John 3:4); Yet, we clearly do sin (1 John 1:8).  Moreover, many passages speak of our being under some law (Gal. 6:2; Rom. 8:2, 7; 13:8-10; 1 Cor. 9:21; Heb. 10:16; James 1:25; 2:12).

I have heard some explain it this way.  It has never been a temptation of mine to be a bank robber, or a homosexual, or a rebel against the government.  While the Bible has something to say on each of these things.  It is as if I am not under these laws because I have no desire for these things.  This is an explanation I’ve heard.  But, I think it is not the best, nor is it the correct.

 The answer is that this statement is elliptical.  Compare it with Galatians 5:23 which says “against such there is no law”.  Also compare it to Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” All that is being said is that “ye are not under the law” in the sense of it being against you.  It might be best viewed as saying “ye are not under (the condemnation of/or antagonism of) the law”.

6.  What does Galatians 5:17 mean?  It reads “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these things are contrary one to another: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.”  This verse is speaking of one who hasn’t crucified the flesh and its passion (compare Gal. 2:20; 5:24; 6:14).  The one here-in described is a double-minded person, trying to hold to the things of the flesh, and the things of God at the same time.  James 4:4, 8 reads, “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God?  Whosoever therefore be a friend of the world is the enemy of God… draw neigh to God, and he will draw neigh to you.  Cleanse your hands ye sinners; and purify your hearts ye double-minded.”  Some try to please God and live a worldly centered life all at the same time; such will not work.  I believe a good commentary on Galatians 5:17 is Romans 8:6-7, “For to be carnally minded is death: but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.”  This type of person has been described as “having just enough religion to be uncomfortable at the beer bash, but not enough to be comfortable at the prayer meeting”.

We must decide where our aim is in this life.  We must decide what it is we wish to accomplish.  If we are to make it to heaven, we must be focused (Matt. 6:22-23; 6:33; Col. 3:1-2; Gal. 1:10; 1 Thes. 2:4).  May we strive to enter in through that strait gate for “wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction.” (Matt. 7:13-14; Luke 13:23-24).

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The Works of the Flesh

Posted on August 17, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The wording “the works of the flesh” should not be taken as saying that flesh itself is inherently evil.  God called His creation very good (Gen. 1:26, 31).  We are marvelously created (Psalm 139:14).  Jesus dwelt in the same flesh that we do (John 1:1, 14; Heb. 2:14; 5:5-7; 10:20; 2 John 7).

The wording is simply a reference to man following His own will and desires apart, and even against God (cf. Jeremiah 10:23; with John 6:28-29).  We dwell in fleshly bodies.  These bodies have certain wants and needs.  These basic desires of men are not necessarily wrong.  However, there is a right way to deal with these things, and a wrong way.  Satan uses our fleshly needs, wants and desires to tempt us to do wrong.

The works of the flesh are:

1.  Adultery (Galatians 5:19).  Definition: Vine’s says it refers to “one who has unlawful intercourse with the spouse of another.”  Thayer says, “To have unlawful intercourse with another’s wife.”  The I.S.B.E., “In scripture designate sexual intercourse of a man, whether married or unmarried, with a married woman.”  In a personal letter to me, Professor Ed. Miller of the University of Colorado at Boulder writes, “Adultery involves sexual activity is apparent from too many passages, both Biblical, and non-Biblical alike.”   In yet another personal letter to me, Professor William L. Peterson of Penn State has written, “Voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and someone other than his/her lawful spouse.”  There is no man or woman worth this.

2.  Fornication (Galatians 5:19).  We should look at it this way, “All adultery is fornication, but not all fornication is adultery.”  Yes, married people can commit fornication (1 Cor. 5:1).  Definition: Arndt-Gingrich, “Every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse.”  Earl Edwards says, “It includes sexual intercourse with any person of either sex, other than one’s spouse, as well as intercourse with beasts” (17th Annual Spiritual Sword Lectureship, page 345).  Vine’s says it means, “illicit sexual intercourse.”  Any unauthorized sexual union would be condemned as fornication by the scriptures.  There is no man or woman worth this.

3.  Uncleanness (Galatians 5:19)  Definition: Lenski writes, “Uncleanness is broader [than fornication] and includes not only other sexual aberrations, but also all that leads to them” (The Interpretation of Saint Paul’s Epistles to the Galatians and Ephesians, p. 285).  Thayer, “In a moral sense the impurity of lustful… living.”  This word would include impure behavior (pornographic voyeurism and exhibitionism) which stops short of fornication.  Remember the Bible says, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matt. 5:8 cf. 5:28; Heb. 12:14).  Let us think on that which is pure (Phil. 4:8).

4.  Lasciviousness (Galatians 5:19)  This word is rendered “sensuality” in the NASB/ESV; and “lewdness” in the NKJV.  Definition: Thayer defines it to include “filthy words, indecent bodily movements, unchaste handling of males and females, etc.”  Maurice Lusk III said, “The word has to do with… activities or conduct that tends to excite lustful desires (6th Annual Shenandoah Lectures, p. 457).  Instead of crowding up close to it, we’d be wise to flee such lusts (2 Tim. 2:22).

5.  Idolatry (Galatians 5:20)  Likely, you picture this word to be used of one bowing down in some pagan temple to worship at some carved image.  Indeed it does include such.  However, even “covetousness” can be classified as idolatry (Col. 3:5; Eph. 5:5).  He should be first in our lives (Matt. 6:24; 10:37).  “The businessman who ignores his wife and family, who has no time for his church or Lord because he is giving everything he has in order to make his business prosper has committed idolatry.  His business has become his god, for the sake of which everything and everyone else must be sacrificed.  The wife who admits that she has wrapped her whole life up in her husband and fears that she cannot go on living without him has committed idolatry.  She has made him her god.  No man is worthy of such worship (6th Annual South Texas Summer Lectureship, page 226).

6.  Witchcraft (Galatians 5:20)  The word is ‘pharmakia’ from whence we get our word ‘pharmacy’.  Thayer gives the primary meaning as “The use of administration of drugs.”  It seems that the word became synonymous over time with witchcraft because witches employed mind altering drugs in their work to convince their subjects of their power.  God gave us minds; we should not abuse them (read Mark 12:30; 1 Peter 5:8).

7.  Hatred (Galatians 5:20)  The N.A.S.B. reads “enmities”.  Some live with hatred for others.  Some are implacable, beyond reconciliation, beyond forgiving another.  Those filled with hatred will not make it to heaven (1 John 2:11; 3:15).  We must learn to forgive as Christ forgives (Col. 3:12-13).  We are even to learn to have agape love toward our enemies (Matt. 5:43-48).

8.  Variance (Galatians 5:20)  Here is how some translations have rendered this: “strife” NASB; “contentions” NKJV.  Thayer indicates that the word means “contention, strife, wrangling”.  Some people are contentious by nature; They love to fight and argue and quarrel.  Jerry Moffitt has written, “It can be evidenced in church battles.  It can be evidenced in Bible class where some lock horns, cross swords, and joust, tilt, and duel with each other at every opportunity” (9th Annual Ft. Worth Lectures, p. 105).  Folks, I am not speaking of contending for the faith; But, being contentious over anything and everything.  We, even in defending the truth, are to speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15).  Even in correcting another, we are to be gentle (Gal. 6:1-2 NKJV).  Never should we simply be trying to win an argument, or playing a power game for ego sake.

9.  Emulation (Galatians 5:20)  The NASB renders this “jealousy”; The NKJV reads “jealousies”.  Thayer’s definition says, “to provoke to jealousy, or rivalry… to provoke to anger.”  We, as God’s people, are not to be troublemakers, but peacemakers (Matt. 5:9).  If we want to see God, we must pursue peace (Heb. 12:14).  Paul wrote, “As much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men” (Rom. 12:18).

10.  Wrath  (Galatians 5:20)  The NASB reads “outburst of anger”; The NKJV reads “outbursts of wrath.”  Lipscomb’s Commentary says, “erruptions of anger.”  Self control is one on the list under the fruit of the spirit (Gal. 5:23 NKJV).  We need to be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19).  Proverbs 16:32 reads, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”

11.  Strife, 12.  Sedition, 13. Heresies (Galatians 5;20)  We’ll take these together.  They are closely linked in meaning.  The NASB renders these words, “disputes, dissensions, factions”.  The NKJV reads “selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies”.  On the word “strife”: Thayer, “electioneering or intriguing for office… a courting  distinction, a desire to put one’s self forward, a partisan and factious spirit”; Vine’s, “self-seeking… self will-being… seeking to win followers”.  On the word “sedition”: Thayer, “dissension, division; Vine’s “literally a standing apart.  On the term “heresies”: Thayer “a body of men separating themselves from others and following their own tenets”; Moffitt, “A full fledged party in or out of the congregation (9th Annual Ft. Worth Lectures, p. 106).  We must remember this: We are to be making disciples of Christ, not self.  Paul understood this point and wrote, “My speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Cor. 2:4-5).

14.  Envying (Galatians 5:21)  Definition: “The feeling of displeasure of witnessing of hearing the advantage or prosperity of others” (Vine’s).  Envy is a terrible thing; It can cause people to do shameful, cruel things (See Proverbs 27:4; Mark 15:10).  Such should not describe us.  Let us “rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep” (Rom. 12:15).

15.  Murder (Galatians 5:21)  We will define this as the unauthorized (by God), intentional taking of human life.  Someone says, “But I am not capable of such.”  The truth is human beings are capable of many things when they walk by the flesh instead of as the Spirit of God directs.  Hatred, and envy unchecked by the word of God can lead to such things (1 John 3:12; Mark 15:10).

16.  Drunkenness  (Galatians 5:21)  There are two words translated “drunk” in the New Testament.  One is an inceptive verb.  The other refers to the state of drunkenness (obvious by behavior).  Vine’s indicates that this noun is akin with the second mentioned verb (though this would not mean consumption in any amount non-medicinally is approved – But such is beyond our study at this point).  Robert C. Bux M.D., Deputy Chief Medical Examiner Bexar County has written, “There are subtle physiological effects after one alcohol equivalent drink” [(Note: One alcohol equivalent = one 12 ounce beer, four or five ounces of wine, or one mixed bar drink.)  This quote is found in the 18th Annual Denton Lectures, p. 440-441 from a personal letter to Lynn Parker].  Proverbs 20:1 says, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”  We are warned, “Look not thou upon wine when it is red, when it giveth his color in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.  At last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder” (Prov. 23:31-32).  Alcohol will cause people to undress and behave dishonorably (Hab. 2:15; Gen. 19:30-36; Prov. 23:31-33).

17.  Revellings (Galatians 5;21)  The NASB reads, “carousing”; The NKJV reads “revelries”.  Lindell and Scott defines the original word to mean a jovial festivity with music and dancing, a revel, carousal, merry-making.  In modern language we are speaking of “partying”.  Garth Brooks’ song “Friends in low places” is a fitting description, “Where the whiskey drowns and the beer chases my blues away”.  Romans 13:13 says, “Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting [revelling, ASV] and drunkenness.”

18.  And the such like (Gal. 5:21)  That is: This is not an all-inclusive list, and makes clear that it is not.  There are many, other things fleshly men do when not led by the Spirit.

Sum Up

These sins listed fall in the following categories: (1) Sexual sin – Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness; (2) Allowing wrong things to guide, direct, or control one’s life – idolatry, witchcraft; (3) A lack of peace – hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envying, murders; (4) Partying – drunkenness and revelling.

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The Fruit of the Spirit

Posted on August 15, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The vast majority of the book of Galatians has as its concern the false teachings of Judiazers.  However, it is almost as if Paul in the fifth chapter, pauses from this emphasis to say, “You know, you have other problems in the churches of Galatia than just Judaizing teachers.  Some of you have forgotten the basics of Christian behavior.”  They were biting and devouring one another like vicious animals (Gal. 5:14-15).  In this context he writes of “the fruit of the Spirit”.

The fruit of the Spirit is…

1.  Love (Galatians 5:22).  This is the King of the Christian graces.  Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love to one another” (John 13:35).  Paul indicated that without it we are nothing (1 Cor. 13:1-3), and he went on to say that in some way it is even greater than “faith” and “hope” (1 Cor. 13:13).  John strongly stated “he that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (1 John 4:8).  Agape love is not necessarily an emotional closeness, or friendship kind of love; it is concern and Godly living toward others.  The behavior of this type of love is spelled out in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; we’d do well to read and re-read this passage often.  This love cares enough to risk conflict to help a brother or sister out of sin (cf. Gal. 5:14; w/ Gal. 6:1-2).  Brother Jimmy Jividen has written, “Perhaps the strongest test of brotherly love is the willingness to confront a brother who is involved in sin or error” (Koinonia, p. 33).  Again, he has written, “One of the most unloving accts that one could do – is nothing – when he knows that a brother is being overcome by sin” (Koinania, p. 147).  Once more he said, “It is a shallow and misguided love which prefers to let a brother go to hell rather than correct his wrong.  Brotherly love cares enough to correct” (Koinonia, p. 179).

2.  Joy (Galatians 5:22).  It is possible for the Christian to be filled with inward joy despite harsh and even brutal external circumstances.  The brethren at Thessalonica are an example of this; They “received the word in much affliction, with joy…” (1 Thes. 1:6).  Roy H. Deaver has written, “Joy is the inward feeling of happiness and contentment which often finds a meaning of outward expression.  It does not necessarily demand that outward circumstances be pleasant” (7th Annual Ft. Worth Lectures, p. 127).  The reasons the Christian can have such joy is that he understands “the suffering of this present time are not worthy to be compared with “the glory which shall be revealed…” (Rom. 8:18).  Moreover, “all things work together for good” (Rom.8:28).

Paul described the afflictions of this life as “light” and “but for the moment” in comparison with the “exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Cor. 4:16-18).  The trials of this life must be endured to get to the beauties of the other side (Acts 14:22).  Moreover, if approached with the right attitude such can be used to mature us (Rom.  5:2-5; James 1:2-4).

3.  Peace (Galatians 5:22).  This word may be closely connected with the previous word; that is: regardless what happens in this life a Christian can maintain an inner peace.  Jesus spoke of this when He said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace.  In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

However, it may refer to the way Christians strive to live with others.  Hebrews 12:14, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”  Also, think of Romans 12:18, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you live peaceably with all men.”  Moreover, think of Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.”

4.  Longsuffering (Galatians 5:22).  Let’s define the term.  Vine’s, “Forbearance, patience, longsuffering.”  Thayer, “patience, endurance, constancy, steadfastness, perseverance.”

We as God’s people need to have this quality of longsuffering when wronged.  It is so easy to want to take matters into one’s own hands and retaliate in like-kind.  Romans 12:21 reads, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”  There are times God expects us to turn the other cheek (Luke 6:27-29).

We need to be longsuffering with our brethren.  We all have quirks and flaws and it is easy to get frustrated with one another.  Paul wrote that we are to be “longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:2-3).

We need to be longsuffering and constant in our Christian life.  1 Corinthians 15:58, “Be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.”  Galatians 6:9, “Let us not grow weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”   We are to be a productive people who “bring forth fruit with patience”  [perseverance NASB; endurance NKJV margin] (Luke 8:15).

5.  Gentleness (Galatians 5:22).  The NASB and the NKJV both render this “kindness”.  Note: This is not the same word which appears in Galatians 6:1.  Arndt-Gingrich gives the primary meaning as “usefulness”.  Roy H. Deaver, “The very root of the Greek is the concept of usefulness” (7th Annual Ft. Worth Lectures, p. 128).  We as God’s people need to look for ways to be useful to others.  Jesus taught that true greatness was found in serving others (Mark 10:42-45).  We sing, “Make me a servant, Lord, make me like You, for You are a servant, make me one too”.

6.  Goodness (Galatians 5:22).  Roy H. Deaver has written, “The word generally refers to everything and every quality that could be called ‘good’.  The word also is used to describe the act of taking all of those good attributes and directing them toward another in the way we would use the word ‘beneficence’ … the act of using one’s own goodness for the benefit of another” (7th Annual Ft. Worth Lectures, p. 128).  Goodness toward others is shown by keeping God’s commandments (Rom. 13:8-10; 1 John 5:2; 2 John 5-6).  Let us follow the Golden Rule (Matt. 7:12).  May we be like Jesus, who “went about doing good…” (Acts 10:38).

7.  Faith (Galatians 5:22).  Both the NASB and the NKJV read “Faithfulness”.  Thayer says of the original word, “fidelity, faithfulness, i.e. the character of one who can be relied on”.  We are not to be “fair-weathered friends.”  Job had such friends (Job 6:15-17; 19:13-19).  Instead, we’re taught, “Thine own friend, and thy father’s friend, forsake not” (Prov. 27:10a).  Some brethren, when you need them the most, are no where to be found in times of trouble or need.  Don’t be like this.

8.  Meekness (Galatians 5:23).  Both the NASB and the NKJV reads “gentleness”.  Vine’s, “Described negatively, meekness is the opposite to self-assertiveness and self interest”.  We might think of it as “strength under control”.  Roy H. Deaver, “We gain some insight into its content when we turn secular Greek literature and find our word used to describe a spirited and properly trained horse.  The horse has power, he has ability, he has energy, but it is all harnessed and placed under the control of the rider on his back.  This is the very heart of the meaning… submission to someone else” (7th Annual Ft. Worth Lectures, p. 129).  True Christians are to allow God to control their lives, directing their steps (cf. Jer. 10:23).  No longer are we to live solely for self.  We are to have to have the mind of Christ (Phil. 2:1-8).  We are to let Him live within us (Galatians 2:20).

9.  Temperance (Galatians 5:23).  Both the NASB and the NKJV render this “self-control”.  We as God’s people must learn to control ourselves.  This includes our bodies.  1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 reads, “This is the will of God; even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication.  That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor”.  This also includes the tongue.  James 1:26, “If any… bridle not his tongue… this man’s religion is vain”.  This furthermore includes one’s anger.  Ephesians 4:26 reads, “Be ye angry, and sin not”.  Proverbs 16:32 reads, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city”.  Charles Crouch said that self-control meant, “Abstinence from everything harmful and wrong, and moderation in everything else” (Studies in Galatians, p. 83).

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Must I tell the Truth, Always?

Posted on August 10, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

 Melinda, children and I were out-of-town.  While visiting some friends, we attended a Sunday morning Bible class.  The teacher was teaching from the book of Ephesians.  In that book it says, “put away lying, speak every man truth” (Ephesians 4:25).

One woman asked during the class, “Must we always tell the truth?  For instance, what if someone asks how I like her dress, must I be honest?”

Various answers were given, some good, some not so good.  One said it might be good to ignore the question and pretend you didn’t hear.

One said, “Maybe you could say, ‘I didn’t quite understand the question, could you say it again’” hoping that it will be worded differently the next time.  Others said that one can tactfully answer saying something like, “this other dress I prefer for it really brings out the color in your eyes.”

Yes, we can be tactful.  In fact, our words are to be “seasoned with salt,”  we are to be wise in “how” we “answer every man” (Col. 4:6).  But, we must always speak the truth.

Folks, I am concerned that this politically correct society that does not want to offend anyone has rubbed off on the church.  Moreover, it goes deeper than dresses.  I’ve heard one member of the church ask another member, “Do you think, spiritually speaking, I did what was right?”  The one asked answered, “I’d probably done the same if I was in your shoes.”  But that is not what was asked.  The question concerns if the one did what was spiritually right.  However, the one asked is too concerned about offending to tell the truth, and what is needful.

 I’ve known members that live next door to non-members but they never tell them what they need to hear to be saved, lest they offend.  They behave the same way toward their non-Christian, or wayward family members.  Folks, this is not beneficial to them, and it is cowardness.

I ask you to consider the word of Proverbs 27:6, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.”  A true friend says the truth.  A true friend tells what is needful.

Back to answering an uncomfortable question: (1) speak the truth (Eph. 4:25; Col. 3:9).  (2) Do so with love (Eph. 4:15) and tact (Col. 4:6).

Some may not want to hear the truth.  But if they didn’t want to hear they shouldn’t have asked.  My friend, Alice Stone, told me this – and she is right!

Others are craving to hear the truth.  I believe that the reason Dr. Phil and Dr. Laura are so popular is that some are longing for honesty, and they are sick of folks who’ll just tell them what they want to hear – sycophants.

Whatever the motive in the person asking the question, a Christian is to speak the truth.  If an answer is given, it should be truthful.

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Attitude / Gratitude / Servitude

Posted on August 8, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Brother Tommy Willess has suggested to me that when we assemble together, God desires three things from us: attitude, gratitude and servitude.

ATTITUDE: Psalm 89:7 points out, “God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.”  The term “feared” does not mean in context to be frightened, but to be held in respect.  It is tied to the term ‘reverence’.  Vine’s “used of a person in an exalted position… connotes ‘standing in awe’ … an individual recognizes the power and position of the individual revered and renders him proper respect.”  Malachi 2:5 also ties this word with the term ‘reverent’.  The term ‘reverence’  according to Brown -Driver-Briggs carries basically the same idea.

When we come together we are to have a serious respect for God.  Our worship is not to be flippant or taken lightly.  We are in the presence of the Almighty “Hallowed by (His) name” (Matt. 6:9) in the assembly and always.

GRATITUDE: Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31 all read “Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!”  The context concerns the fact that many only turn to him in times of need, but they forget him when things go well.

We’ve got so much to be thankful for; He “daily loadeth us with benefits” (Psalm 68:19). The Psalmist said “Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving” (Psalm 95:2), and urged “Serve the Lord gladness: come before his presence with singing… enter into his gates with Thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him and bless his name” (Psalm 100:2, 4).

Our worship should flow out of a thankful heart.  We are to sing “with grace (thankfulness NASB) in (our) hearts” (Col. 3:16).  We are to “continue in prayer… with thanksgiving” (Col. 4:2).  Our giving is to be done with “cheerful” hearts (2 Cor. 9:7).

SERVITUDE: Psalm 119:104-105 says, “Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.  Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

When the sermon is being preached we should: (1) Listen attentively (Neh. 8:3).  (2) Verify the message (1 Thes. 5:17; 1 John 4:1-ff; Acts 17:11).  (3) If the message is proven true to the book we should accept it as God’s will being communicated to us (1 Thes. 2:13).  (4) We should not listen to the sermon as an academic  exercise or a trivial pursuit with no intent to apply what we hear to our lives; we are instructed to “be… doers of the word and not hearers only” (James 1:22).  Revelation 1:3 encourages, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words… and keep those things which are written therein.”

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Jesus: A Created Being?

Posted on August 3, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The Wisdom Argument

A common argument by the so-called “Jehovah Witnesses” is that Jesus is the “wisdom” mentioned in Proverbs the 8th chapter.  Thus, Jesus is a created being (Proverbs 8:22).

If one lets them define the terms, such seems reasonable.  But who ever said that “wisdom” here refers to Jesus?  Not one New Testament writer ever makes such a point.  These verses are never quoted and applied to Jesus.  Never does any Bible writer here or elsewhere ever say that the reference here is to Jesus.  Robert Morey writes, “This passage refers to ‘wisdom’ and not to Christ.” Another consideration is this, “wisdom,” that is being spoken of in Proverbs, is pictured as female.  Notice that this is true (Read Prov. 1:20-23; Prov. 2:1-11; Prov. 8:1-3, etc.).  This seems to be a significant blow to anyone that would attempt to use this passage to prove that Jesus was merely created. Robert Morey recommends this when studying with one who uses this argument, “Have him read Provers 2:1-7 and try putting Christ in every place where wisdom is mentioned. This does away with his argument in a hurry.” (Robert Morey, How to answer a Jehovah’s Witness, p. 20).

There is also the issue of how to interpret the Hebrew word which appears in the passage. The NKJV reads, “The LORD possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old” (Proverb 8:22). Some other translations read similarly (e.g., KJV, ASV, NASB, ESV). The NWT reads, “Jehovah himself produced me as the beginning of his way, the earliest of his achievements of long ago.” Some other translations read similarly (e.g., RSV, NIV, NRSV, NET). The original word is qanah. It has a wide range of meanings. Strong’s say, “To erect, i.e., create … to procure … to own” BDGB says, “gain, acquire, possess … get, acquire … buy.” Consider how the word is used in Proverbs: Proverbs 1:5; 4:5; 4:7; 16:16; 17:16; 18:15; 19:8; 23:23. It clearly is used in ways which do not mean create. The NWT recognizes this in how it renders these other occurrences in the book of Proverbs.

Even if one could establish that “produced” or “created” is the meaning (which seems unlikely from how the word is used in Proverbs), one would still need to prove that Christ is intended in the text. This cannot be done. Created wisdom may simply mean the wisdom by which God would have man live. Robert Morey suggests “wisdom in Proverbs is “seeing life from God’s perspective” (ibid).

The Firstborn Argument

Another argument comes from Colossians 1:15, where Jesus is referred to as “the firstborn of every creature.”  Thus, it is concluded that if Jesus is called the “firstborn” then, He must be created.

The term “firstborn” can refer to rank, or authority, and does not always have to do with birth order.  W.E. Vines indicates that the word can mean “priority” or “preeminence over … not in the sense of being the ‘first’ to be born.”  Vines goes on to say, “It is used occasionally of superiority of position in the Old Testament – see Exodus 4:22; Deuteronomy 21:16-17…”

Consider these examples: (1) Ephraim is called the “firstborn” (Jeremiah 31:9).  Yet, Ephraim was not Joseph’s firstborn, chronologically (Gen. 48:18-19).   The reference is to Ephriam’s greatness and preeminence.  (2) In Psalm 89:27 someone is spoken of with the words, “I will make him my firstborn, higher than the kings of the earth.”  There are two views here.  (a) Some think that the reference here is to David.  If this be so, understand that David was not the first-born, chronologically of Jesse (1 Samuel 16:10-ff).  The reference must be of position, or of rank.  (b) Others have believed that the reference here is to Christ.  In Bible studies with the Jehovah Witnesses they have so understood. If this refers to Christ, they have a serious problem with their ‘firstborn’ argument.  This is the case because they acknowledge that Christ was already in existence at this point, yet the “I will make…” is in the future tense.  The meaning is clear by looking at the last part of the verse.  The meaning is that he will be made “higher that the kings of the earth.”  Kittle’s says rightly that the wording can mean “first in rank.”

In the Israelite culture the firstborn son possessed special privileges.  When the father died, the firstborn son succeeded the father as the head of the house (see Zondervan’s Pictorial Dictionary).  Now God, the Father, has not died.  Nor, was Jesus, the Son born into existence – as if never existing prior (Micah 5:2).  But the Father has given the Son “All authority” (Matthew 28:18; John 5:22-23).  The Son is “heir of all things” (Hebrews 1:2).

On Colossians 1:18 – Jesus was not the first to be raised from the dead.  Others were resurrected.  But He is the Pre-eminent Resurrected One.  The Resurrected One that gives all others hope (Rom. 1:4; Heb. 9:12, 22-24, Rev. 1:18).

Adam Clarke had a slightly different take on this.  He wrote, “As the Jews term Jehovah … the firstborn of all the world, or of all creation, to signify his having created or produced all things … so Christ is here termed (in Col. 1:15 – B.H.) and the words which follow in the 16th and 17th verses are the proof of this.”

The Beginning of the Creation of God Argument

Revelation 3:14 reads in reference to Jesus, “the beginning of the creation of God.”  Thus, some have concluded that Jesus must be the first thing which God created.

The word translated “beginning” is “arche.”  It is from this word that we get our word “architect.”  Wayne Jackson wrote that this word “sometimes carries the meaning of ‘originator,’ conveying the idea of that by which something begins to be, rather than implying chronological commencement.”

Look at how the word is used.  Hebrews 2:10 reads that Christ is “the captain (author-NASB) of their salvation…”  The word is “arche.”  Does the word here mean that Jesus was the first person saved?  Or does this denote that He was the originator of salvation?  The answer is obvious.  Wayne Jackson wrote of Revelation 21:6, “God is designated ‘the beginning (arche) and the end’ … if beginning denotes the Lord’s commencement in time … would ‘end’ suggest an ultimate termination for God?”  Clearly no!  The reference is to His eternal existence in context.

Here is a couple of definitions. Vine’s says that the word can mean “the origin, the active cause.”  Thayer says the word can mean, “beginning, origin …that by which anything begins to be, the origin, the active cause.”

Brother Coffman’s commentary says of Revelation 3:14, “Plummer pointed out that the words here bear two possible interpretations: “The two meanings are: (1) that which would make Christ the first created thing of all things created, and (2) that which would understand Christ as the source of all things God created.”

Well, Jesus certainly had a role in creating all things.  John 1:3 declares, “All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made.”  Colossians 1:16 also says, “For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that on earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.”

Numerous passages teach that Jesus had a role in creating all things.  Where is the clear passage which speaks of His being created?

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“Loving Too Much”

Posted on July 30, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

In a keynote speech at the 1952 Republican Convention, Congressman Walter Judd told this story about helping his daughter with her homework.  He said, “I can get the right answer almost every time, and she would like to have me do it for her… I’ll help, suggest, advise, counsel, nudge, maybe pray, but I don’t work them for her, not because I don’t love her, but because I do, and I want her to succeed, and that is the way for her to grow and to learn how to solve problems.”

One of the hardest things for a parent to learn is that being easy on his/her children is not always in the children’s best interest.  As much as a parent might want to spare his/her child from difficulties and struggles, it still is in the children’s best interest to have to deal with these things.

Struggles are spiritually needful for maturation.  James 1:3 teaches this truth saying, “… the trying of your faith worketh patience.”  One will not learn to be patient if he never has to face trials and difficulties in life.  What do we call a child that always gets what he wants, and never has to wait or share?  Spoiled!  Such a child has parents that have actually hindered proper maturation.

At times, some well-meaning relative (be they parents, brothers or sisters, etc.) or friends are too ready to aid and abet, and too quickly and zealous to cushion the fall of sinful loved ones.  I kindly suggest that such response only enables the sinful to continue their lifestyle.

Consider the situation in that parable of that prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).  I do not know many things about what and when the father knew concerning the state of his son.  Did he know that his son was “in want” (Luke 15:14)?  Did he know that his son had “devoured (his) living with harlots” (Luke 15:30)?  [Evidently he did, the eldest son knew!].  Did he know where his son was?  Did he know that his son had “wasted his substance with riotous living” (Luke 15:13)?  Did he know that when the famine hit he had “spent all” (Luke 15:14)?  Did he know that his son had taken a job feeding swine (Luke 15:15)?  Did he know that his son had sunk so low that he was having to eat swine’s food (Luke 15:16)?  Did he know how the son’s friends’ had turned from him (Luke 15:16)?  [Yes, it seems likely to me that the father knew of these things – Luke 15:30].  This I do know,  many a parent today would have sent money to that sinful son.  Many a dad would have rented a house and paid the utilities for this sinful son.  Such response would have only encouraged the young man to continue his current manner of life, after all “daddy will bail me out”…  The son would learn that there were little consequences for such a depraved, immoral life.  The prodigal son, we are told, “came to himself” (Luke 15:17) and decided to return home (Luke 15:18) and confess his sins (Luke 15:18-19, 21). Watch this – only after he was allowed to hit rock bottom and fall flat on his face did his behavior change.

True love sometimes must allow hardships.  True love is sometimes “tough love.”  True love doesn’t allow people to continue comfortably in sin.  Sometimes “loving too much” isn’t being loving at all.

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Do Good Parents Always Produce Good Children?

Posted on July 27, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Some parents struggle with this question. They do this because the Bible does say, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6)However, we do have record of good men ending up with wicked children (e.g. 2 Kings 18:1-3 cf. 2 Kings 20:20-21: 1-9).  Moreover, we do have a record of some men urning out good in spite of the fact that they had evil parents (e.g. 2 Kings 16:1-4 cf. 2 Kings 18:1-3).  While it is true that parents do have much to do with how the child turns out, each child does possess the ability of choice.

What about Proverbs 22:6?  A proverb is often setting forth a general truth.  For example, Proverbs 21:17 says, “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.”  Is this always true?  Or listen to Proverbs 23:21, “… the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.”  This is a general truth, and a good warning, but there are exceptions.  Or what about Proverbs 16:7, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.”  Is it truth that sometimes righteous behavior can will over even an enemy.  But is such always the result?

It is my experience as a preacher that most children who grow up to be bad, or unfaithful in adulthood do so due to a lack of proper influence, example, instruction and guidance.  There are however, exceptions.  In Isaiah 1:2 God says, “…I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.”

Parents, do the best you can.  Love your children.  When you make a mistake, admit it and try better the next day.  Train them concerning God’s will.  If you do these things you’ll be doing what God expects, and odds are that your children are more likely to turn out right, than if you did not so train them.

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How Are We Tempted? (Part 2)

Posted on July 25, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The lessons learned from the previous writing: (1) Our temptations are derived out of our own lusts (desires).  (2) Satan does not force us to do wickedness.  Instead, he entices us.  His bait is our own lust (desire).  (3) Each human is housed within a physical body.  Satan commonly uses the natural desires of the physical body to tempt.  Brother Kerry Duke has written, “We are always housed in a physical body; from the moment of conception our spirit has been bound to it.  Physical existence is the only life we have experienced, and only after death will we know existing apart from a physical world is like… our awareness of the physical world is sufficient to provide a constant challenge to the will.  This awareness is immediate; we do not have to make a special effort to become aware of it.  But just to think about the spiritual requires special effort.  Our physical surroundings continually draw our attention.  This is why so few become truly spiritually minded.  For those who do, over coming the tendency to think only of the physical demonstrates a genuine commitment of the will.” (God at a Distance, page 84-85).  Satan uses the distractions of this world, and the natural desires that we have to lead us away from God’s will.  [For example – hunger is an involuntary desire.  God wants us to work for our food (2 Thessalonians 3:10).  Satan may tempt us to take a short cut (Proverbs 30:8-9)].

But, how do we keep ourselves from falling for Satan’s lures?

1.  1 John 2:17: “The world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.”

The question comes up whether the term “world” refers to the material world, or the evil of this world.  It is, of course, true that this material world will not last forever (Heb. 1:10-11; 2 Peter 3:10-12).  Moreover, it is certainly true that we cannot take our material possessions with us (Psalm 49:16-17; Ecclessiates 2:18-19; Ecclessiates 5:15; cf. Job 1:21; Matthew 6:19-20; Luke 12:20; John 6:27; 1 Timothy 6:7).  Too often we put all our energy laboring for and accumulating things which will not last.  However, it is my belief that the reference is to the evil things of this world.  The pleasures of sin are but for a season (Hebrews 11:24-25).

In order to successfully handle temptation, we must keep focused.  The pleasures of sin are but for a season (Hebrews 11:24-25).     Colossians 3:2 urges us “set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”  2 Corinthians 4:18 encourages, “The things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”  Mark 8:36-37 asks, “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?  Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

By the way “doeth” represents continuous, not one time, action.  Let us keep on doing His will (1 Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 6:9).

2.  Psalm 119:11: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.”

Jesus when he was tempted responded by saying, “It is written.”  Three times He so responded (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10).

The more we know the scriptures and meditate upon them the better we will be prepared to resist temptation.  Saturate your mind with the Word of God.  That Word will “effectually” work within us. (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

3.  Mark 14:38: “Watch ye and pray lest ye enter into temptation.”

We need to watch, that is, stay alert to the “wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11)… “for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Corinthians 2:11).  1 Peter 5:8 warns, “Be sober, be vigilant: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”

We also need to remember to pray.  The Bible says, “Men ought to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1).  Colossians 4:2 says “continue in prayer.”  Let us “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).  The Christian may “come boldly unto the throne of grace… and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).  It’s hard to sin if you’re praying about it!  Prayer can even eliminate some temptation (Matthew 6:13; Proverbs 30:8-9).

4.  3 John 11-12: “follow not that which is evil, but that which is good… Demetrius hath a good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.”

Following the wrong people will get one in many tempting circumstances (Proverbs 13:20; 1 Corinthians 15:33; see also Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 1:10-15).

Find godly examples.  Such will help you to resist the wrong (1 Corinthians 11:1; 1 Peter 5:3; Hebrews 13:7).  3 John 9-12 urges Gaius to not follow Diotrephes, but Demetrius.  Find those who want to do right and live holy lives and befriend them.  The Psalmist wrote, “I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts” (Psalm 119:63).

5.  Proverbs 15:3: “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.”

As you conduct your life remember that whether anyone else sees what you do or not – God does.  Even things we hide from others He knows (Ecclesiastes 12:14; Romans 2:16; 1 Timothy 5:24-25).  Remembering that we’re always being watched and are accountable is a great motivation to resist temptations.

Conclusion

The methods of temptation have not changed.  In the garden, Eve saw the fruit was: (a) good for food (lust of the flesh); (b) pleasant to the eyes (lust of the eyes); (c) to be desired to make one wise (pride of life) see Genesis 3:6.  In the wilderness, Jesus was tempted with (a) turning stones to bread (lust of the flesh); (b) offer of kingdoms (lust of the eyes); (c) challenge to prove that He was under God’s protective care (pride of life) see Matthew 4.  These are still the three avenues of temptation for us today (see James 1:14-15; 1 John 2:15-17).

It is my hope that we’ve set forth some ways that will help you deal with the temptations of life in a godly, productive way.

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