Jesus and God, Not Ashamed

Posted on May 7, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

“For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Hebrews 2:11).

The book of Hebrews tells us that Jesus sanctifieth us by His blood (Heb. 10:10; 13:12).  We are also sanctified by the Truth of the word (John 17:17) and the washing of water (Eph. 5:26).  However, the context of Hebrews speaks of sanctification through the blood of Christ.

The text says both the sanctifier and the sanctified are of one.  Perhaps this means of one nature (Heb. 2:11 cf. v. 14, 17).   Others think the reference is to being of one heavenly Father.  However, the context seems to favor the former.

Jesus lived among men, as a man.  He worshipped God with them (Heb. 2:12).  He exercised faith in the midst of trials (Heb. 2:13a), just as men on earth should do (Heb. 11:6).  He even carried on miraculous work with some of these He lived among (Heb. 2:13b, cf. Isaiah 8:18).  Thus, “he is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Heb. 2:11).

“But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God…” (Heb. 11:16).

Abraham and Sarah could have sought to return to the land that they had left (Heb. 11:15).  However, turning back was not  a part of their vocabulary, though things weren’t always easy.

They considered themselves “strangers and pilgrims on earth” (Heb. 11:13).  They were looking beyond.  They “desired a better country, that is an heavenly” (Heb. 11:16 cf. 11:10; cf. 13:14).  Therefore, “God is not ashamed to be called their God (Heb. 11:16).

The Tie

Jesus came to this earth and lived among us.  Therefore, He is not ashamed to be called our brother.

Those who seek to dwell with Him on high, those that seek Him by faith, putting heavenly things above earthly (see Col. 3:2) – God is not ashamed to be called their God.

Let us live so that He is not ashamed to be called our God!

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A Careful Study of Matthew 24:1-35

Posted on May 5, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Religious history is filled with date-setters.  William Miller, a member of what later became the Seventh Day Adventist, was one such.  In 1843 he set a date for the Lord’s return.  The predicted year of His return was to be 1844.  The year 1844 came and went, but Jesus did not return.  He then set a date in 1845 for the Lord’s return.  People sold their homes and farms.  They quit their jobs.  They climbed to the tops of trees, hills, and barns and sat and waited for the Lord’s appearance.  He didn’t come.  Many of these, with their faith broken, never trusted in God again.

Another date-setter was Charles T. Russell of the Jehovah Witnesses.  He set the date for the Lord’s return to be October 1914.  October 1914 came and went without the Lord’s return.  He then changed the date to 1918.  He was wrong again.

In my office I have a book entitled, “88 Reasons Why the Rapture is in 1988” (by Edgar C. Whisenant). I do think the writer missed it.  No doubt, he also shattered many’s belief in God.  They think God let them down!

One of the key chapters that these date-setters appeal to is Matthew 24 (along with parallel accounts in Mark 13 and Luke 21).        In this article, we wish to examine briefly, but carefully, this chapter.

I submit to you that Matthew 24:1-35 concerns not the end of time, but the fall of Jerusalem.  Consider this: (1) All spoken of up to this point was to occur in that generation (Matthew 24:34).  (2) Matthew 24:16 speaks of fleeing to the mountains for safety.  What good would this do at the end of time?  At the end of time, fleeing to the mountains would do you no good.  The mountains will be burned up with fervent heat, in that day (2 Peter 3:10-11).  (3) Whatever day is spoken of, we know that it would be especially difficult to flee to safety in the mountains if it was in the winter, if one had a small child, or was pregnant, or if it were in a Sabbath day (Matthew 24:19-20).  What difference could these things possibly make if we are speaking if the end of this earth?  But, if we are speaking of physically fleeing the city of Jerusalem before it  fell, such would make a difference (i.e. – the city gates were closed on the Sabbath Nehemiah 13:19-22; on women with children, compare with Luke 23:28-29).   (4) The disciples questions do seem to concern the Temple and Jerusalem’s fall (Matthew 24:1-3; Mark 13:1-4; Luke 21:5-7).

Next, Jesus sets forth various Pseudo / or weak signs.  (1) False Christs (Matthew 24:4-5).  Josephus and others of old claim that many such did come forth prior to Jerusalem’s fall.  The Bible also hints at such (Acts 5:34-37; Acts 21:38).  If this is a sign of the end of time, it is not much of a sign, for many have claimed over the years to be such (e.g. David Koresh).  (2) Wars and rumors of wars (Matthew 24:6).  At the time the word of Matthew 24 were spoken, the world had relative peace.  But, Roman internal difficulties would soon come.  Four emperors (Nero, Galba, Otho, and Vitellius) would come and go within 18 months.  Strife and uprisings would soon cost 20,000 Jews their lives at Caesarea; 13,000 Jews would be killed by soldiers at Scythopolis; 50,000 Jews were killed in an uprising in Alexandria; another 10,000 would die similarly in Damascus.  Caligula demanded that his statue be erected in the Jewish Temple.  When they refused, he threatened war (the war never happened though historians differ as to whether it was diplomacy or his death that prevented such).  They were not to be disturbed by such things, and neither should we be.  If one is looking at wars, and rumors of wars being a signal for the Lord’s return, he indeed has the weakest of signs.  There have been more than 290 major wars known in human history.  In fact, it is said that in the last 3,421 years of human history, only 268 have seen no war!  (3) Natural disasters (Matthew 24:7).  There certainly were many such occurrences from 30 – 70 A.D..  In those years there were great earthquakes in Crete, Rome, Phrygia, Laodicea, and all over Asia Minor.  Pestilence occurred in the days of  Claudius Caesar; 30,000 Romans suffered death.  Famines also occurred between 30 and 70 A.D. (see Acts 11:28; Romans 15:26).  These things were at best weak signs to those alive then (Matt. 24:6, 8).  (4) Persecutions of Christians (Matt. 24:9).  Surely I do not need to detail the scriptural references to demonstrate that this did occur prior to 70 A.D. (the year of  Jerusalem’s fall).  Why anyone would want to look for fulfillment of these things 19 or 20 centuries later is a mystery to me.  It is shocking, a shocking disregard of history.  All of these things have occurred long, long ago.

Now, we move to the true / or strange signs Jesus gave.  (1) The Gospel would be preached to all of the world (Matt. 24:14).  Has this occurred?  Indeed, it has!  In fact, it was fulfilled as early as 63 A.D. (Colossians 1:23, also se: Colossians 1:6; Romans 1:8; Romans 16:26).  This did occur prior to Jerusalem’s fall.  (2) The Abomination of Desolation (Matthew 24:15-16; cf. 23:38).  Admittedly this language could be difficult.  But, things become rather simple when we go to the parallel record of Luke 21:20.  The reference is to the Roman army surrounding the city (such was an abomination to the Jews).  This has occurred many generations ago.  We need not look beyond the events prior to 70 A.D..

It seems to me that in Matthew 24:23-26, Jesus warns that even Jerusalem’s fall and the events preceding it does not mean that Christ is actually returning to this physical earth.  “Believe it not,” He says Matthew 24:23, 26.

Objections

Bryan, doesn’t Matt. 24:27-30 refer to Christ’s second coming?  No!  it is clear by comparing the language here with the prophetic writings of Isaiah 13:10; 19:1-ff; 34:4; Ezekiel 32:7-8; Joel 2 etc.  This is merely prophetic language referring to the downfall of nations.

But, someone says, “It speaks of Christ’s coming” (Matthew 24:30).  Yes, yes it does; but, this does not prove the reference is to the final coming.  There have been various comings mentioned in scripture: (1) There was the first coming, when He came to live among men (John 1:11; 10:11; Luke 19:10); (2) Another coming occurred on Pentecost (Matthew 16:28); (3) A coming in Judgment is spoken of to the seven churches of Asia Minor (Revelation 2:16; 3:20); (4) And here, in Matthew 24:30, His coming is a reference to His coming in Judgment upon Jerusalem.

Another says, “Well, it does talk of salvation” (Matthew   24:13).  Yes, the reference though is not to spiritual salvation.  But, it is a promise of physical salvation to all who would remain true and faithful to Him.  Look at Matthew 24:16.  Just as the faithful of Noah’s day were saved, even so, were the people of that day who remained faithful.  God was providentially with them.  Not one Christian died in Jerusalem’s fall.  If one would read carefully Luke 21:17-21, it is apparent that the reference is to physical salvation.

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the good employee

Posted on May 2, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Do you feel the efforts you put forth each and every day on the job are going unnoticed?  Do you feel your employer had treated you unfairly?  Is nepotism occurring?  Do you feel like giving up?  If these words describe the sorts of feeling you currently have or have experienced in the past, you are not alone.  The fact is most of us at one time or another have experienced disappointment when it comes to our employment.  Preachers are certainly no different!

When discouragement impacts us our performance frequently is hindered.  The quantity of our output may plummet.  The quality of our work may decline.  The performance of our duties goes from zealous to “What is the least I can do and still maintain employment?

This ceasing of performance zeal usually only leads us into a downward spiral of more disappointment and discouragement.  When one reaches this state it will not be long before his work will be terminated by his current employer.

 How should we cope with the situation?

First, we should realize we are not slaves in this country.  We can quit and establish employment elsewhere if we choose.  We do not have to stay in an environment we do not like.

However, at times it may be in our best interest to remain where we are.  We may have a family to support and simply quitting would mean either taking a cut in salary, or going an extended time without employment.  It could be we have built up certain benefits, and perhaps retirement that would be relinquished if we simply quit.  Quitting may force us into a job of less security, or perhaps into a company that has a question mark beside its name when it comes to how long that company  will be in business.

Second, if we are going to stay where we are, we must learn to make the best of it.  How do we do this?  We must realize no matter how we are treated, and whether we are recognized or not by our employer, God recognizes what we are doing.  We work for Him and not for man.  Therefore, we should work with all our might.

 Note:

1.  Colossians 3:22-24, “Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye service, as men pleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”

2.  Ephesians 6:5-8, “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of heart, as unto Christ.”

3.  1 Peter 2:18-ff, “Servants be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle but also to the harsh…” (NKJV).

4.  Ecclesiastes 9:10, “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.”

Conclusion

1.  We are to work hard, with all of our might as if we are working for the Lord.

2.  We must not simply give eye service, for God sees all.

3.  We must realize if our employer doesn’t notice, God does and He will reward us one day.

**These perhaps are things that will make an unpleasant work more bearable!

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Man: In the Image of God

Posted on April 30, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Genesis 1:26-28, “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the face of the earth.   So God created man in his own image, in the image God created he him; male and female created he them.  And God blessed them, and God said unto them, be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.”

Created in the image and likeness of God, what does this mean?  It should be understood that these two terms (image / likeness) are inter-changeable terms (Gen. 1:26-27 cf. Gen. 5:3; Gen. 1:27 cf. Gen. 5:1).  But, in what way can it be said that we are created in the image of God?

 Man is Divine?

It certainly does not mean that man is divine.  The New Age movement, and Mormonism teach self-deification, but in truth we are not God.

God is the creator.  He is all-powerful, all-wise, and omnipresent.

Such doesn’t describe us.  “Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves” (Ps. 100:3).  “Thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God” (Ezek. 28:2; read context Ezek. 28:1-9).  See also – Acts 12:21-23; Acts 14:11-15.  There is a vast difference between God and man.  Job was reminded of this in Job 38-41.  Consider Job’s response after God had whittled him down to size – see Job 42:1-3.

 Physical Appearance?

I have had a young Indian child ask me, “Since man is created in the image of God, what does God look like?  Does he look Asian, African or European?”  Does the wording have to do with physical appearance?

This certainly is not what God has in mind here.  “God is a Spirit” (John 4:24).  “A Spirit hath not flesh and bones “ (Luke 24:39).The Father is not “flesh and bones” (see Matt. 16:17); This is despite what the Mormons teach – (Doctrine and Covenants 130:22; Pearl of Great Price, Moses 6:9).

Someone might ask, “Isn’t it true that God at times is spoken of as having eyes?  Yes, it is (Prov. 15:3; Job 34:21-22).  However, listen to brother T. Pierce Brown, “The fact that God is spoken about as one who had eyes, hands, ears, and so on, has no bearing on this subject for two reasons: (1) If God is trying to let us know that he can observe us, hear us, and minister to us, he has to do it in words that mean something to us; (2) A bird or a fish may have eyes without being in the form of man.  So it is not without reason to speak of God’s eyes, ears, or hands, although he is Spirit.”  (Quoted in Rock Solid Faith, Vol. 2, Page 91).

Gender?

Some have thought that the reference is to God being male.  However, once again this is not the answer.  God usually is pictured, in scripture, in masculine terms.  Sometimes he is pictured in feminine terms (see Isaiah 46:3; 49:15; 66:13).  In truth God is neither male nor female (see Luke 24:39 cf. John 4:24).

The language seems to include both genders (Gen. 1:27-28).  Murder is forbidden due to man being created in the image of God (Gen. 9:6).  Does this include the woman?  Clearly a woman’s life is of equal value as a man’s (see Ex. 21:28-31).  Bert Thompson has written, “How could this be the image of God… if a sexual distinction also is present in animals?” (ibid, page 94).

 Image now lost?

Some believe that man once was in the image of God but now is not.  This image, it is suggested, was lost in the fall.

In truth man still possessed this image long after the fall (Gen. 9:3, 6).  Man still is in the image of God (James 3:9-10 “are made” literally refers to action completed in past with abiding results).

 Eternal nature?

Some have thought that the wording means that man is like God in that man is an eternal spirit being.  The reasoning comes from the words of Genesis 2:7, “man became a living soul.”

However, the term ‘soul’ has different meanings in different contexts.  The word rendered in Genesis 2:7 is used of animal life in context(Gen. 1:20, “life;” Gen, 1:21, “living creature;”  Gen. 1:30, “life”).  Genesis 2:7 does not refer to the immortal part of man (see 1 Cor. 15:44-45 cf. Gen. 2:7).  The NKJV renders Genesis 2:7 “a living being.”

Man clearly does have an inner part which survives the death of the body; However, this is not the point here.

 Dominion?

The contextual reference seems to have to do with how God created us to have dominion (Gen. 1:26-28; Psalm 8:3-8).  Don Simpson used to tell us in Preacher Training School that every time he flew aboard a plane, boarded a ship, or drove in an automobile, or took an elevator to the top of a skyscraper that Genesis 1:26-28 and Psalm 8:3-8 went through his mind.  Robert Morey said, “Image of God simply meant that man was created to be and do on a finite level what God was and did on an infinite level.  Man was created to reflect God in the created order (ibid, page 110).

Very clearly the reference is to authority (Gen. 1:26-27).  It is in this sense the language is used of the male and not the female in 1 Cor. 11:7-9.

Perhaps this image of God also has to do with how God created the animal world.  Read Genesis 9:1-2.  Matthew Henry, “What is it that keeps wolves out of our towns, and lions out of our streets and confines them to the wilderness but this fear and dread” (Vol. 1, page 56).  Adam Clark commented, “Had not God in His mercy impressed their minds with the fear and terror of man so that some submit to his will while others flee from his residence the human race would long ere this have been totally destroyed… tigers, wolves, lions, and hyenas … flee… from the dwelling of man… and thus he is providentially safe” (Vol. 1 page 79).

 A Parting shot

Jesus is the express image of the Father (Col. 1:15; Heb. 1:1-4).  This word image is different for that which is used of us.

The word for us is eikon.  The word used for him is charakter.  This is a much stronger word.  Vine’s adds, “The Son of God is not merely his image (charakter) He is the image or impression of His substance or essence” (page 318).

It is as if God is going to make clear that we understand that we are not in His image in the same way His Son is.

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Man: Why Did God Create?

Posted on April 28, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

In a Q & A session in India a young boy of six or seven years of age asked this question.  Here is how I responded.

Isaiah 43:7 indicates that man was created for the glory of God.  But, it seems to me, that this has reference to our purpose, and our role.  We each are to live a life that brings glory to God (see 1 Cor. 6:20; 1 Cor. 10:31; Matt. 5:16).

None of us really add glory (beauty) or honor (weight) to His essence.  He needs nothing from man.  He doesn’t need food, shelter, or clothing from man.  He is self-sufficient.  Read 2 Sam. 7; 1 Chr. 17; Acts 7:47-50; and Acts 17:22-25.  Look especially at these words, “God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is he worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed anything (emp. Mine), seeing he giveth to all life, breath, and all things” (Acts 17:24-25).

So, while man is to live in such a way that glorify God and causes others to glorify him as well, we do not add anything to His essence.  God needs nothing from man.  Man needs God.  God does not depend on man.  Man depends upon God, “…by him all things consist” (Col. 1:17b).

However, having said this, he does receive joy and pleasure from man.  Read Psalm 149:4; Luke 15:7, 10; 2 Cor. 2:15; Phil. 4:18.  It is clear that we were created “for him” (Col. `1:16).  It appears to me that he desired to spend eternity with us (see Matt. 25:34; John 17:24).

Far from being a harsh God that enjoys destroying man; Far from being a sadist; he has “no pleasure in the death of the wicked” (Ezek. 33:11).  He prepared a wonderful place for us (Matt. 25:43; John 14:1-3).  He wants us to be where he is (John 14:3).

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Peace

Posted on April 25, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The wording “grace, mercy, and peace from God…” appears several times in the Bible (1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4; 2 John 3).  It has been said of God’s grace, mercy, and peace – “Grace is when God gives us what we don’t deserve; Mercy is when God doesn’t give us what we do deserve; And, Peace is the ability to bear up under life’s difficulties knowing that with the help of God, we can meet any difficulty that comes our way.”  Today, we consider the word “peace.”

The original word is eirene (the root eiro means “to join”).  This word is used of: (1) harmonious relationships between all men – Matt. 10:34; Rom. 14:19; (2) friendliness – 1 Corinthians 16:11; (3) harmonious relations between nations – Luke 14:32; Acts 12:20; (4) a state of national tranquility; exemption from rage and havoc of war – Acts 24:2; (5) Freedom from molestation – Acts 9:31; (6) a sense of rest – Mark 5:34; (7) order in the state – Acts 24:2; or in the church – 1 Corinthians 14:33; (8) harmonious relations between God and man – Acts 10:36; Ephesians 2:17; (9) the tranquil state of the soul assured of its salvation through Christ – John 16:33; (10) the blessed state of the devout and upright men after death – Rom.  2:10 [see Vine’s p. 464; and Thayer p. 182].

Jesus is the “prince of peace” (Isaiah 9:6).  We have “peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).  Due to this peace, we can have peace, internally, in spite of external tribulation (John 16:33; Philippians 4:7).

Let’s also remember concerning peace with God: (1) Peace is something preached (Eph. 2:17); yet to hear is not enough, we must obey (Hebrews 5:9).  (2) Peace is connected with the gospel (Romans 10:13-15).  Yet the gospel contains instructions to obey (2 Thes. 1:6-9 cf. Mark 16:15-16).  (3) Peace and mercy are for these who “walk according to this rule” (Galatians 6:16).  There is a rule, a standard, that we as Christians are to follow.  In context that standard is the gospel (see Galatians 1:6-9).  Note: that if we negate both sides of the equation in Galatians 6:16, we see that there is no peace and no mercy for those who do not walk according to this rule.

In our relationship with our fellow man consider: Hebrews 12:14, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”  Also, Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God.

My wish for you: “Grace be with you, Mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ” (2 John 3).

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Mercy

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Last time we looked at the word “grace.”  Now we will look at the word “mercy.”  What is the difference?  It has been said that grace is when God gives us what we don’t deserve (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense – see 2 Corinthians 8:9); Mercy is when He doesn’t give us what we really deserve.

There are a few words in the original language translated into the word “mercy.”  Let us look at each.

(1) eleos – This word refers to “the outward manifestation of pity; it assumes need on the part of him who receives it, and resources adequate to meet the need on the part of him who shows it (Vine’s, p. 403).  Thayer says, “kindness or goodwill towards the miserable and afflicted, joined with a desire to relieve them” (p. 203).

In regards to this word for “mercy”: (a) God is rich in mercy (Ephesians 2:4).  (b) Our salvation is according to His mercy (Titus 2:5).  (c) This mercy is available for Jew (Luke 1:72) and gentile (Romans 15:9).  (d) His mercy is on those that fear Him (Luke 1:50).

(2) Oiktrimos – This word refers to “pity, compassion for the ills of others” (Vine’s, p. 404).  Thayer adds this, “(the viscera which were thought to be the seat of compassion…) compassion, pity, mercy (p. 442).

In regards to this word for mercy: (a) God is the “Father of mercies” (2 Corinthians 1:3).  (b) His mercies should change us (Rom. 12:1).

(3) Splanchnon – This word refers to “affections of the heart”(Vine’s p. 404).  Thayer says, “bowels, intestines (the heart, lungs, liver, etc… in the Greek poets the bowels were regarded as the seat of the more violent passions, such as anger and love; but by the Hebrews as the seat of tender affections, esp. kindness, benevolence, compassion (p. 584).

In regards to this word for “mercy,” it is by this “mercy” that we have the availability of salvation (Luke 1:76-78).

(4) hilaskomai – This word means “to conciliate, appease, propitiate” (Vine’s, p. 404).  A form of this word was used to refer to the lid which covered the ark, the mercy seat.

This is the word used of Jesus in Hebrews 2:17, “a merciful and faithful high priest.”  It is through Him we have reconciliation with God (Romans 5:10; 2 Corinthians 5:18; Ephesians 2:16; Colossians 1:21-22).  Thank God for His mercy!

In closing, let us remember to be merciful and gracious people.  James 2:13 reads, “For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.”  Read also Luke 10:37 (In both cases the word is eleos).  Our words should be gracious (Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 4:6).  Let us decide to be merciful and gracious people.

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Grace

Posted on April 20, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The term “grace” is often used by church going people; but what does it mean?  What is the meaning of the word?

In every day speech, we today use the word in a variety of ways: (1) we may speak of God’s grace; (2) Then, we speak of saying grace for our meal; (3) Followed by our observing how gracefully an athlete performed in a sporting event.

Even so, the ancients used the term in a multitude of ways.  Kittel’s says that the word was used of secular Greeks to mean, “…what delights.  It may be a state causing or accompanying joy… In Plato it has the meanings, ‘good pleasure,’ ‘good will,’ ‘favor,’ ‘pleasure,’ ‘what pleases,’ and ‘thanks.’  In Hellenism Charis becomes a fixed term for ‘favor’ shown by rulers … In recipients, Charis denotes ‘thanks’” (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, page 1301).

How does the Bible use the term?  The original term is translated by the KJV into the following words: acceptable, benefit, favor, gift, grace(-ious), joy, liberality, pleasure, thank(-s, -worthy).  Vine’s says that the word includes the idea of “that which bestows or occasions pleasure, delight… on the part of the bestower, the friendly disposition from which the kindly act proceeds, graciousness, loving kindness… on the part of the receiver a sense of the favor bestowed,  a feeling of gratitude” (Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words, p. 277).  Perschbacher says, “Pleasing show, charm, beauty, gracefulness, a pleasing circumstance, … a beneficial opportunity, a charitable act, generous gift” (The New Analytical Greek Lexicon, page 436).  Thayer lists a variety of ways the word is used including “that which affords joy, pleasure, delight… goodwill, loving kindness, used of the kindness of a master toward his inferiors or servants, and so especially of God toward man… thanks (for the benefits, services, favors)…” …  (Greek-English Lexicon of New Testament, page 666).  Arndt-Gingrich adds, “graciousnes, attractiveness, favor, grace, gracious care or help, goodwill … also by metonymy that which brings someone God’s favor… thanks, gratitude.”  (A Greek English Lexicon of the New Testament and other Early Christian Literature, 2nd Edition, page 877-888).  Scanning the New Testament one finds that the original word is used of: (1) God’s opportunity for salvation extended to man (Titus 2:11; Titus 3:5-7); (2) favor (Luke 1:30; 2:52; Acts 2:47); (3) Kindness (Col. 4:6); (4) Behavior on which God chooses to bestow favor (1 Peter 2:19-20).

The Biblical concept of saving grace is this: (1) There is a “true grace” according to 1 Peter 5:12.  The implied teaching is that there is also false concepts of God’s grace.  But what is the “true grace?”  (2) True grace is from God (1 Peter 5:10).  (3) It is necessary for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9).  (4) It is available to all (Titus 2:11).  (5) God’s grace includes Christ’s dying of our sins according to Hebrews 2:9.  (6) It has at least some conditions for reception (1 Peter 5:5).  (7) True Biblical grace does not exclude obedient faith (Genesis 6:8 cf. Hebrews 11:6-7).  (8) We today have access to this grace “in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:1).  Yet baptism is the way into Christ Jesus (Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:26-27).  (9) Baptism is clearly connected, therefore, with God’s grace (Titus 3:7; cf. Titus 3:5).  (10) It is possible to fall from grace (Galatians 5:4; Revelation 3:16).  (11) True grace teaches us to change our lives (Titus 2:11-12).  (12) While God’s grace may be the basis of our salvation. We are not saved by grace alone, without a response of faith (Romans 5:1-2; Ephesians 2:8-9).

My wishes for you: “Grace be with you, Mercy and Peace from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ (2 John 3).

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Watching For The Lord

Posted on April 18, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Several times in the New Testament, we are instructed to “watch for the Lord’s coming” or something to that effect.  My question is just what does that mean?  Does it mean that we should all go around gazing up into heaven?

No, it is obvious from the scriptures themselves, that this is not what is intended.  Read Acts 1:9-14.  Notice that the angels asked, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven?…” (Acts 1:11); and upon hearing this they returned to Jerusalem and they engaged in prayer, and no doubt other activities.

Moreover, I cannot believe that to “watch” means that we are to look for the signs of His coming.  Matthew 24:36 says, “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”  Mark 13:35 says, “Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the Master of the house cometh…”

By the way, concerning Mark 13:35, let me ask a couple of questions.  First, if one was always ready, would it really matter when the Master came?  Second, when the Master does come, will there really be enough time to repent on that occasion?  I don’t get the impression from the scriptures that there will be such time (Matt. 24:38-39 – Did the people of Noah’s day have the opportunity to repent and be saved once the flood waters began to fall, and once the door of that ark was already shut?)

How then is the term “watch” being employed in scripture?  In what sense are we to be “watching for the Lord?”

Read Matthew 25:1-13.  Let it be observed that the difference between the five wise and the five foolish virgins is not that some slumbered and some did not.  The text says “they all slumbered and slept” (Matt. 25:5).  The reference is to physical death.  Neither is the difference due to the fact that  some knew when the groom was coming, and other did not.  The text says nothing about these things.  In fact, the context seems to indicate the opposite.  None knew when He would come (Matt. 25:13).  What was the difference?  The difference is seen in preparation.  This is clearly seen by looking at verses 3, 4, 7 and 8.  “Watching,” therefore, refers here to being ready all the time for the coming of the Lord, whenever that may be (Matt. 25:13).

Next, read Matt. 25:14-30.  The term “watch” does not appear in the words you just read.  But, notice the “for” in verse 14.  This points one back to the term “watch” in verse 13.  Therefore, as one reads Matthew 25:14-30 it becomes clear that the term “watch” carries the idea of doing what you can, with what He has given you, knowing full-well that He one day will return, and will judge us according to our abilities, and according to how we used what He has entrusted us with.

Next, read Mark 13:33-37.  Let me ask you, if you left your house or business with some hired help how would you want them to be watchful?  Would you want them to stand at the window, or the door, or the gate all the day long watching for your return?  Would you want them to, every five minutes, to interrupt their work, to stop working, to go to the window and look and see if you are coming?  Of course the answer is no!  In what way then were they to watch?  Simply put, they were to be faithfully doing the work  that He assigned and gave them authority to do.  One man by the name of James H. Snowden even wrote, “Even the porter at the gate was to watch, not simply for the householder’s return, but for any intruder or marauder that might be prowling about.  He was to be faithful in his ordinary work as a porter.”  (James H. Snowden, D.D., LL.D., The Coming of the Lord: Will it be Pre-millennial?”  The MacMillan Company, N.Y., (c) 1921, page 161).

The last passage to read is Luke 12:25-37.  Again, “watching” here is associated with doing the Lord’s will, and being ready, and always being prepared for His return.  This is expressed again later in this very chapter, Luke 12:41-47.  But, look at verse 40 which says, “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of Man cometh at an hour, when ye think not.”

A secular consideration – when I worked in the ‘secular world,’ we at times would have so-called “surprise inspections” from the regional or national corporate office.  Usually, there was a tip ahead of time from another location that had just been inspected.  They would call and say, “They are on their way towards you.”  And I would watch grown men running around like chickens with their heads cut off trying to tidy  things up in short order.  It was almost humorous.  But you know, if the location was ran consistently as it should have been, there would be no panic.  Things should have been ran in such a way that all was ready should the inspector come totally as a surprise.

Brethren, if we live as if the Lord could come at any moment, if we are always prepared, then it really will not matter when He comes.  It is in this sense that we are to be watchful.

Brethren, what will the Lord find you doing when He does come?  Will He find you faithfully using whatever abilities He has given you, for good?  Will He find you working?

One last example:  On May 19, 1780 there was a mysterious day of darkness in New England.  Now I don’t know the specific cause.  I don’t know if an eclipse caused this phenomena.  I don’t know if perhaps smoke from a fire elsewhere caused this strange event.  I suppose such could be researched, but I do know this: It did become dark.  Thousands of people thought that the end of all things was at hand.  During this panic period the Connecticut State Legislature was in session.  So great was the darkness that many had become terrified and moved that they adjourn, thinking that judgment day had come.  One of the members was a Mr. Davenport.  He arose and said, “Mr. Speaker, it is either the day of judgment or it is not.  If it is not there is no need of adjourning.  If it is I desire to be found doing my duty.  I move that candles be brought in and that we proceed to business” (Snowden, page 169-171).

The point I am making is that Christ’s coming will either happen today, or it will not.  It’ll either happen tomorrow, or it will not.  We don’t know the time.  But, let us be doing the business we are given to do, and let us be doing it faithfully each day as if He is coming today.  If we do this then we’ll have nothing to fear.  Such is what it means to “watch.”

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Soul Mates

Posted on April 16, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

You’ve heard the term “soul mates.”  What is the meaning of this term?  Many people use this term to refer to a couple intended by God to be together, created one for another.  The idea is that there is only one person out there with whom you were designed to be.

Is this thinking Biblical?  I do read that Eve was made for Adam (Gen. 2:18-ff).  This is the only example of a man and woman created one for another, that I read of in the Bible.  I don’t deny that God’s providence can bring certain ones together.  However, the general teachings of the Bible present a different  view when compared with this “soul mate” concept.  The unmarried daughters of Zelophehad were at liberty to “marry to whom they think best; only to the family of the tribe of their father…” (Numbers 36:6).  Widows are told that, “She is at liberty to marry to whom she will; only in the Lord” (1 Cor. 7:39).  Then, Paul goes on to say, “But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment…” (1 Cor. 7:40), that is if she chooses to remain unmarried such is fine, and in fact, may be better due to the present distress (1 Cor. 7:26).  I do read that man and woman have a choice to marry or not to marry, and even have choice in the selection of a mate.  But I do not read about this concept of “soul mates.”

Is there danger in this thinking?  Yes, I do believe so.  Consider this scenario:  Peter and Wendy are married.  They have been married a few years.  The marriage doesn’t seem to have the romantic spark it once had.  The marriage also has certain struggles and difficulties (which all marriages have from time to time).  Wendy believes in this “soul mate” concept.  She begins to think this could not possibly be my soul mate.  This is work and not always roses and fun.  Thus she leaves Peter in search of that one person that was created for her.  She thinks she finds him.  His name is Tom.  She marries him.  Friends warned her what the Bible teaches about marriage, divorce, and remarriage.  She didn’t listen because in her mind she never was intended to be married to Peter.  He was not her intended mate.  She had married Peter, but in God’s plans she really should have married Tom.  Wendy, in her mind, is now simply doing what God has always desired.

A few months go by.  Marriage with Tom is more difficult than she thought.  Bills must be paid.  The house needs cleaning.  Food must be prepared.  This is not how she thought it would be.  Maybe Tom isn’t her “soul mate.”  But he is out there somewhere.  Wendy is going to keep looking.

Folks, marriages don’t just work.  They must be worked on, effort is required.  All is not romance, dining, vacations, and going out.  There is also rearing of children, going to work to earn a paycheck,  housework, dealing with differences, working through arguments, sickness, and disease, and life’s struggles in general.  Many marriages fail due to unrealistic expectations.

Be selective in choosing a mate.  However, God never designed one person for you so that if you find him/her there will be no problems.  Even Adam and Eve had difficulties in their life together.  Work at your marriage.  It is worth the investment!

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