In The News: “Liars”

Posted on September 23, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

1994 ( S. Carolina ): Susan Smith claimed that her children had been taken when she was car-jacked by a “black man.” In truth, she had drowned her two sons, ages fourteen months and three years. The motive evidently was to continue a relationship with her boyfriend who didn’t want the burden of children.

2004 ( Utah ): Mark Hacking was married to Lori Hacking. They had been married for five years. They had been an item for ten years. He was twenty-eight; she was twenty-seven years of age. He came from a successful family. His father and one brother were doctors. Another brother was an electrical engineer. Mark, himself, was a liar and not the person that he claimed to be. He had dropped out of college, yet, for three years he pretended to be going to the University of Utah, even purchasing books to keep up the appearance. Then, he supposedly graduated with honors and earned a degree in Psychology. Next, he told Lori that he had been accepted into medical school at UNC. It was all a lie. When he no longer could hide the truth from Lori, he shot and killed her while she slept, dumped her body in a dumpster, and reported her missing the next day. However, the truth came to light.

2008 ( Nevada ): Kevin Hart lived in the small town of Fernley . He was an offensive lineman on the high school football team. He stood 6’5” and weighed nearly 300 pounds. The high school had never produced a Division 1 college football player. Kevin Hart began to boast that he had so many college offers, he didn’t know what he would do. There were offers from California , Oregon , Nevada , Illinois and Oklahoma State . Finally, he called a press conference and announced before the press and a packed high school auditorium that he had accepted Cal ’s offer. One major problem – neither Cal, nor any other major school had offered him a scholarship. It was all lies.

Lying is nothing new. Abraham lied (Genesis 12:11-13, 17-19). Isaac lied (Genesis 26:6-7). Jacob lied (Genesis 27:19). The Psalmist said “all men are liars” (Psalm 116:11).

Definition  Thayer: “conscious and intentional falsehood.”

Webster: “To utter falsehood with the intention to deceive; to say or do that which is designed to deceive, to cause incorrect impression, to present misleading appearance.”

Why Do People Lie?  Most sources list three reasons: (1) Deceitful jest/play. Such is not intended to permanently deceive. It is not for personal gain or avoidance. An example would be an “April Fools” joke. We don’t read of this type of deceitfulness in the scriptures. We do see something similar in the use of fabricated stories in order to teach [(2 Samuel 12:1-ff; 14:2-ff). Both were deceptive stories. However, they were not intended to truly deceive, save for the momentary story.] (2) Deceitful gain/advantage. Such is what motivated Jacob (Genesis 27:19). This is what motivated Ananias and Sapphria (Acts 5:1-ff). Those who tell such love the praise of men more than the praise of God. (3) Deceitful avoidance/escape. This is what motivated Abraham (Genesis 12:11-ff) and Isaac (Genesis 26:6-7). This is what motivated Peter (Matthew 26:69-ff; Mark 14:66-ff; Luke 22:54-ff; John 18:15-ff). Those who tell such are brave toward God, and cowards toward men.

Things to Remember

1. The Bible condemns lying (Proverbs 6:16-19; Ephesians 4:25; Colossians 3:9; Revelations 21:8; 21:27; 22:15).

2. You may be able to hide who you are from man (1 Timothy 5:24). It’s not likely you’ll keep it up long term, but it is possible. Mark Twain: “Always tell the truth – that way you don’t have to remember what you’ve said.”

3. You can’t hide the truth from God (Psalm 139:1-4; Ecclesiastes 12:14; Matthew 12:36; Romans 2:16; 1 Timothy 5:24; Hebrews 4:13). Judgment is coming. “A lie may take care of the present, but it has no future!” (Unknown).

4. God always means what he says. “If we are faithless, He remains faithful. He cannot deny Himself” (2 Timothy 2:13, NKJV). He does not lie (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18).

5. Many times one sin leads to another. This truth is seen in the David-Bathsheba history. This is also seen in the aforementioned Mark Hacking story.

6. Some lie to others about their own spiritual state, pretending to be what they are not (cf. Matthew 23:27). Some act a certain way and speak a certain way in the presence of elders, preachers, or church members wanting to appear as something they really are not. Let’s remember that God knows, and that He is the one we should be seeking to please.

7. Some lie to themselves about their own spiritual condition ( James 1:22; 1:26-27; 1 John 1:6; 2:4; 4:20-21). Self deception is a common problem which can be spiritually deadly. We each need to honestly appraise ourselves by peering into that mirror of the soul, the word of God ( James 1:23-25). Asking others to frankly tell you their assessment of your spiritual condition may also be helpful (cf. Proverbs 27:26). Tell you friends to not pull any punches.

8. Some lie to us in their religious message (Matthew 24:4; Ephesians 5:6; 2 Thessalonians 2:3; 2:9-11). It’s important to test what we hear (Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1). Being taught wrong does not excuse us (1 Kings 13: Matthew 15:14; Galatians 5)!

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Marital Issues

Posted on September 12, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

When marriage is what it is supposed to be it is wonderful. Husbands are to “so love their wives as their own bodies” (Ephesians 5:28) and “even as Christ loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:28). Wives are to be “an help meet” (Genesis 2:18). The wife should live purposing to “do him good and not evil all the days of her life” (Proverbs 31:12).

This writing will address some common areas of difficulty in marriage in order to help our homes be more the ideal God planned.

1. Communication: Read 1 Corinthians 2:11. The only way we can know God’s mind is for God to reveal His mind (will) to us (which He has).  Even so, the only way we can expect our mate to know our mind is through clear communication. Learn to speak. Bill Flatt said, “silence is ambiguous” and indeed so something is being said but who knows what exactly. The wife who gives her husband the silent treatment when he comes in is confusing. “Is she saying she is angry with me, and if so about what?” or “Is she saying that she has had a bad day with the kids, or with work?” or  “Does she just not feel well?” or “Did somebody die?”  Not only do we need to learn to communicate, we need to learn to listen with interest, and patience. “He that answered a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him” (Proverbs 18:13). May we be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19).

2. Intimacy: When marriage takes place, two people should view themselves as belonging to one another (1 Corinthians 7:3). Each should be considerate of the other (1 Corinthians 7:3-5).  The Bible says, “marriage is honorable in all and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4). There is nothing wrong with physical intimacy. In the Song of Solomon, the woman desired to be kissed (Song of Solomon 1:2). They embraced (Song of Solomon 2:6; 8:3). Isaac and Rebekah caressed (Genesis 26:8 NASB).   Reserve this affection for your spouse alone. Brother Wendell Winkler has said, “Do nothing in your companion’s absence that you would not do in their presence” (The Home as God Would Have It, p. 91).

3. Money: Every list I have ever seen indicates that this is the number one reason for divorce in this country. This is a major cause of stress and conflict in the home. Some of us buy things we do not need, with money we do not have, to impress people we really do not know! This creates unnecessary stress. The Bible teaches such things as: (1) Don’t be lazy or slothful (1 Timothy 5:8; Proverbs 10:4; 19:15; 22:13; 24:30-34). (2) Don’t be wasteful (Proverbs 12:27; 19:24; 21:20); (3) Don’t live the high-life, or the fast-life (Proverbs 21:17 cf. Luke 15); (4) Don’t run with the wrong crowd (Proverbs 23:20-21); (5) Remember to prepare for the future (Proverbs 30:25); (6) Be careful with credit (Proverbs 6:1-5; 11:15; 17:18; 22:7). Learning these lessons will improve one’s financial situation.

4. In-Laws: In-laws can be a source of help, or they can be creators and agitators of conflict.  While it is true that the in-laws will always be a part of your life, the Bible teaches that there is to be a leaving and a cleaving (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5-6). Bill Flatt suggested “In-laws should make themselves available for help when needed without trying to control the young couple (The Home as God Would Have It, p. 113). David Knox advised, “The son or daughter who values the spouse… should tell the parents that he loves the mate and does not want to hear anything negative about his mate” (ibid).

5. Children: Usually children bring much joy to a marriage; But children can also be a point of conflict. The conflict usually centers in how to rear the children.. Should we spank, or not? Should we expect the children to do chores, or not?  The Bible teaches that children need correction (Proverbs 29:15; cf. Hebrews 12:6-8). It isn’t to be done in such a way that provokes wrath and discouragement (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21). Bill Flatt has written, “A parent needs to have enough independence and self-esteem to do what is right, rather than just what will cause him to be liked by the child… (some) afraid of losing love dare not deny anything to the child” (ibid, p. 114).

6. Role Conflicts: What is the wife’s role? What is the husband’s role? Can a wife work outside the home? These are common struggles in marriage.  Can a wife work outside the “home-making” duties? Absolutely (Proverbs 31:16, 24; Acts 18:1-3).  Who makes the decisions? Ultimately the husband is the head of the family (Ephesians 5:22-ff). Does this mean that the husband does not get input from his wife? Look at Ephesians 5:28. Does the head of the body take input from the body before making a decision? Certainly. Ray Jenkins has written, “I cannot think of a single decision that a husband should make that affects his family that he should not discuss with his partner – his wife” (ibid, p. 36). The issues of roles should be settled by consulting the scriptures. God has spoken on these things.

7. Upbringing: How one was reared has a lot to do with expectations in the home. In matters of opinion we need to learn to “give and take”.  Bill Flatt, “It is difficult for two people to become one in marriage. The husband may have learned from his parents that he should mess up the house; Whereas, the wife may have learned from her parents to keep the house clean. The wife may have learned that too much meat is not good for you; the husband, that dinner without meat is not a real dinner. …states, “That’s how two people get in trouble… each person’s learning when they were little is just a little different and each person feels he/she has the RIGHT WAY” (ibid, p. 107).

8. Religiously: What one believes religiously affects most things. Our morals, how we handle money, our view of child-rearing, our view of the husband and wife roles in the home and so many other things are tied to our religious beliefs.  A wise one will consider this before marriage. Statistics are clear, divorce is higher (about three times) in marriages of mixed religious backgrounds than it is in marriages of the same religious background (Marrying Only in the Lord, p. 1 cf. p. 103-104). Mixed marriages are also detrimental many times to one’s own spiritual growth. Out of every 100 Christians marrying one out of the church: 20 convert their mate; 24 live in divided homes; and 56 quit the Lord” (ibid, p. 103). Wayne Jackson has written, “a recent article in Redbook magazine stressed the so-called, ‘interfaith’ marriages soaring… Authoress Ellen Sullivan says ‘It appears that the less a person cares about his or her religion, the more apt he or she is to marry outside of it” (ibid, second forward).  If one is in such a marriage of mixed background: (1) Don’t divorce over those differences, so long as your spouse is willing to live with you (1 Corinthians 7:13, 15); (2) Never compromise on truth for the sake of harmony in the home (Acts 5:29; Luke 14:26; Matthews 10:37); (3) Live a good example and let your mate see the beauty of Christ in you (1 Peter 3:1-6).

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Religious Freedom

Posted on August 30, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

People from different religious persuasions settled in the land that eventually would become The United States of America.  (1) The Pilgrims were people who had separated themselves from the Church of England. They were persecuted in England . They fled England for Holland in the year 1609. “In Holland they enjoyed all the toleration they could have wished for, and then some. Their great enemy was now assimilation. As their leader, William Bradford related in his journal ‘owing to a great licentiousness of the youth in the country,’ and the ‘manifold temptations of the place,’ their children were being corrupted. In deciding to leave Holland for the American wilderness, they were not fleeing persecution at all, but permissiveness” (Kevin Hasson, The Myth: Is There Religious Liberty in America ?, The American Spectator, Feb. 2008). The Pilgrims boarded the English ship Mayflower and arrived in Massachusetts in Nov. 11, 1620, establishing Plymouth Colony. (2) The Puritans, led by John Winthrop, settled the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630. The Puritans, unlike the Pilgrims, were not separatists. They sought to purify the Church of England from every trapping of Roman Catholicism and to be an example to the “ Mother church ” in England . (3) William Penn founded the colony of Pennsylvania in 1682. He was a Quaker. Some claim the name was given to the Society of Friends due to their literally quaking during worship (William J. Bennett, America , Vol. 1, p.45). Others indicate that the name was given due to their saying that they trembled (figurative language of respect) at the word of God (The New Book of Knowledge, Vol. 16, p.4). Quakers fled England due to persecution. They were pacifists, and also refused to take oaths in court, both of which brought persecution. (4) The colony of Virginia was not settled so much for religious purposes as it was for business purposes. Jamestown was settled in 1607. The Church of England was the legally established church of Virginia . (5) Maryland was not only intended to be a business venture, “Maryland was also intended as a refuge for Catholics…to mistrustful English Protestants, Maryland’s Catholic founders could say they named their colony after the queen, Henrietta Maria, but among themselves, it was understood that Maryland was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary” (Bennett, p.43). (6) Certainly, not all who came to the New World came for religious purposes. The Virginia colony was primarily about business. Moreover, even on the Mayflower the pilgrims were out numbered by those they termed “strangers”. These were those traveling for other reasons than religious purposes. (7) The diversity of religious beliefs is reflected in the religious composition of the signers of the Constitution: approx. 29 Anglicans, 16-18 Calvinists, 2 Methodists, 2 Lutherans, 2 Catholics, 1 lapse Quaker and sometime Anglican, 1 open door Deist (David Barton, The Myth of the Separation, p.25).

 Religious Intolerance

How do you live with people who believe differently than you? This was a difficulty with which the colonies struggled.

1.     “The Inner Light had been known to lead Quakers in colorful ways, even requiring some of them to turn up naked at Anglican services, shouting ‘hypocrisy!’ The Puritans were appalled and decided to outlaw Quakerism” (Kevin Hasson). Quakers were banished. If they returned, they were flogged. They Quakers kept returning so the punishment increased. The left ear was cut off on the first offense, the right ear was cut off on the second offense, and the tongue was bored through on the third offense. Eventually, death was prescribed. Mary Dyer was hanged on her fourth return (ibid). A fine was imposed on any sea captains transporting Quakers (www.suite101/content/WilliamPenn).

2.     Roger Williams, in 1635, was arrested in Massachusetts on several charges. “The most important of these was that he taught that the civil power … has no authority to say what a man shall or shall not believe” (The New Standard Encyclopedia). He said, “Forced worship stinks in God’s nostrils” (Bennett, p.42). He fled to Providence and founded the colony of Rhode Island . “Williams’ vision of religious liberty lacked staying power. Within about a generation, new leaders of his Rhode Island colony were barring Jews from voting” (Kevin Hasson).

 Religious Tolerance

 1.     “Penn’s guarantee of religious freedom was then one of the most comprehensive in the world. Catholics, Lutherans, Baptists, Presbyterians, and even Anglicans … rushed to settle the rich lands” (Bennett, p.46).

2.     “ Providence was to become a haven for dissenters” (Bennett, p.42).

3.     In Maryland , “It was in the Catholic’s self-interest to seek toleration for all Christians. They saw they would soon be outnumbered” (Bennett, p.43).

4.     In 1777, Thomas Jefferson drafted The Virginia Bill for Religious Freedom. James Madison fought for it and it was passed in 1786. It disestablished the Church of England as the only recognized religion in Virginia . This is sometimes called “The precursor to the Religious Clause of the First Amendment.”

5.     George Washington wrote a letter to a Hebrew synagogue of Newport , Rhode Island in 1790. He closed his letter saying, “May the children of the stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants.” Harry Jaffa has pointed out, this was the first time in human history that any ruler addressed the Jews as equals” (Bennett, p.141).

What Says the Scriptures?

1.     Jesus never forced anyone into obedience. Instead, He said, “Come unto Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest unto your soul” (Matthew 11:28-29). He said, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come to him and dine with him, and he with me (Revelation 3:20). He doesn’t knock the door down and force Himself upon you.

2.     Jesus taught that it is the sower’s job to sow the seed. If it falls on a good and honest heart, it will bear fruit with endurance (Luke 8:15).

3.     Paul “reasoned” with people (Acts 17:2; 17:17; 18:19; 19:8-9). He “persuaded” (Acts 13:43; 18:4; 19:8; 19:26; 26:28). He was in the arena of ideas. He was not silent, but he didn’t force.

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Appreciating Mothers

Posted on July 2, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

Greek word: Matar or meter “from Sanskrit ‘to measure’; but whether denoting the ‘moulder,’ or the ‘manager’ is debated” (Thayer).

English word: Mother “(from) Middle English ‘moder’ … the change from the ‘d’ to the ‘th’ seems due to Scand. influence … from Aryan root ‘ma,’ ‘to measure, shape’ … orig. sense uncertain; probably ‘manager’ of the household (Walter Skeat, A Concise Etymological Dictionary of the English Language). Another view: “The ancestral Indo-European word for ‘mother’ was ‘mater,’ which has descendants in virtually all Modern European languages. It was probably based in the syllable ‘ma’ suggested by the burbling of a suckling baby, which also lies behind English ‘mama,’ ‘mamma,’ and indeed ‘mammal’” (www.word-origins.com).

Whatever the exact origin of the word, every Christian should be a respecter of motherhood. Godly mothers should especially be held in high esteem. The Bible teaches, “Honor your father and your mother” (Ephesians 6:2 cf. Exodus 20:12). “Listen to your father who begat you, and do not despise your mother when she is old” (Proverbs 23:22). Live a life which rejoices your parents. “He who begets a wise child will delight in him. Let your father and mother be glad, and let her who bore you rejoice” (Proverbs 23:24-25). We’re told concerning the virtuous woman, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her” (Proverbs 31:28).

The role of a mother is used in scripture to illustrate care and concern: (1) Jehovah in telling Israel that He hadn’t forsaken them said, “Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? (Isaiah 49:15). (2) Jehovah described His carrying of Israel with these words, “Listen to Me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been upheld by Me from birth, who have been carried from the womb: Even to old age, I am He, and even to gray hairs I will carry you!” (Isaiah 46:3-4). (3) Jehovah spoke of His comfort saying, “As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you and you shall be comforted in Jerusalem ” (Isaiah 66:13). (4) Jesus said of His concern over Jerusalem , “O Jerusalem , Jerusalem , the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!” (Matthew 23:37). (5) Paul said of his, and Silvanus, and Timothy’s love for the brethren at Thessalonica, “We were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children” (1 Thessalonians 2:7). The word “cherishes” is from the Greek “thalpo” which “primarily means ‘to heat, to soften by heat’; then ‘to keep warm,’ as of birds covering their young with feathers, Deuteronomy 22:6, Sept., metaphorically ‘to cherish with tender love, to foster with tender care’” (Vine’s). The image of Paul may be of a mother keeping her child warm.

A Few Things Moms Do

1. The etymology of the word “mother” seems to have to do with managing, or molding and shaping. Good mothers manage the home. They are “homemakers” (Titus 2:5, NKJV), and are to “manage the house” (1 Timothy 5:14). Moreover, they exert a great influence in shaping their children (2 Timothy 1:5). “The wise woman builds her house” (Proverbs 14:1).

2. Jehovah mentioned, “the son of her womb” (Isaiah 49:15). Normal length of gestation is 266 days, almost nine full months. Your mother carried you and delivered you. They don’t call it labor for nothing!

3. Jehovah and Paul both mentioned, “nursing” (Isaiah 4915; 1 Thessalonians 2:7). Your mother may have so fed you. Whether it was by breast or by bottle, if she fed you, she dedicated much time to you. Today, doctors speak highly of breast-feeding. Generally speaking, a mother’s milk is ideal for the infant. Breast milk contains antibodies which help the baby’s immunity system gain strength. Such is not present in cow’s milk or formula. Breast milk fat and protein are easier to absorb than in cow’s milk or formula. Breast milk contains more carbs than cow’s milk. These carbs are thought to be needful in brain development. Breast milk averages 40 times more vitamin E than cow’s milk. It is as if it had been designed and specially formulated for human infants!

4. Jehovah mentioned holding and carrying of the child “from birth … from the womb” (Isaiah 46:3-4). Have you ever tried to carry a child around with you for extended periods of time? It is tiring. Many times the care of small children is left almost exclusively to the mother. Herodotus said of Persian sons “until they are five years old, they are not taken into their fathers’ sight, but live with the woman. This is to prevent a father from being grieved by the death of a son during the period of his early upbringing” (1:136). We may not be this extreme. However, it is still true that mothers typically devote most of their time to small children.

5. Jehovah speaks of the comforting of a child by his mother (Isaiah 66:13). She stayed up with you at nights while you cried.

6. Jehovah described a mother who doesn’t forget (Isaiah 49:15). Think of Mary. She kept a mental scrapbook of her son (Luke 2:19; 2:51).

7. Jehovah described a mother who still wanted to help even in old age (Isaiah 46:4). Parenting never really ends.

8. Jesus described the protective care of a hen’s wings (Matthew 23:37). Foy L. Smith commented, “When I was a lad in a small Oklahoma town I would see the old hen gather her little chicks under her wings when they were threatened. If she could not safely make it to the shed with her chicks, she would squat in the middle of a downpour and spread her wings for the refuge of her chicks. She tried to protect her own” (The Book of Matthew, 1988 Spiritual Sword Lectureship Book, p. 601).

If you have such a mother, “rise up and call her blessed” (Proverbs 31:28).

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Appreciating Fathers

Posted on June 23, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

Greek word: Pater “from a root signifying ‘a nourisher, protector, upholder’” (Vine’s). “From root ‘pa’; lit. nourisher, protector, upholder” (Thayer).

Aramic word: Abba. “Abba is the word framed by the lips of infants” (Vine’s). It is a tender affectionate term of endearment.

English word: “The word ‘father’ can be traced back to the Latin ‘pater’. There was a process called ‘the great consonant shift’ which meant that related languages began to change the letters such as ‘p’ for ‘f’ or ‘v’, and ‘t’ began to be pronounced as ‘d’. This explains why the Latin word ‘pater’ translates so similarly into various European languages as: Vater (German); Father (English); Padre (Italian/Spanish); Athar (Irish); Pere (French)…” (Answers.com). “Today’s word probably comes from one of the first syllables uttered by babies, ‘pa’ plus the proto-Indo-European suffix ‘-ter’, also found in ‘mother’. These two components alone account for Greek ‘pater’ and Latin ‘pater,’ … Sanskrit ‘pitAr’ …” (alphaDictionary.com).

A distinction should be made between the mere act of reproducing and fatherhood in its complete sense. This distinction is sometimes emphasized in Latin with ‘pater’ being used of the true father, and ‘sator’ being used of one who simply begets. It doesn’t take much of a man to reproduce. God wants more from us. God commanded Abram saying, “I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD” (Genesis 18:19).

The Bible teaches much about respecting fathers. “Honor your father and mother” (Ephesians 6:2 cf. Exodus 20:12). “Listen to your father who begot you, and do not despise your mother when she is old” (Proverbs 23:22). The fruits of a good relationship can be long lasting. “Children’s children are the crown of old men, and the glory of children is their father” (Proverbs 17:6). Children should seek to live a life which rejoices their parents. “The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who begets a wise child will delight in him. Let your father and mother be glad, and let her who bore you rejoice” (Proverbs 23:24-25 cf. 10:1; 17:25; 29:3).

The role of a father is used to illustrate care and concern: (1) Jesus in teaching the disciples to pray said, “ask… seek… knock” (Matthew 7:7; Luke 11:9). He then illustrated the Father’s love by saying, “what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he ask for a fish will give him a serpent? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then being evil (relatively speaking in comparison to God -B.H.) know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father who is in heaven give good things (the Holy Spirit- Luke) to those who ask Him” (Matthew 7:9-11 and Luke 11:11-13 harmonized). * (2) Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, “you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you as a father does his own children” (1 Thessalonians 2:11). (3) He also wrote to the Corinthians describing his work among them saying, “For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children” (2 Corinthians 12:14). (4) Concerning God’s correction, we’re told, “My son, do not despise the chastising of the LORD, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the LORD loves He chastises and scourges every son whom He receives. If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? But if you are without chastening, of which all become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of Spirits and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness, Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; Nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:5-11). Note: The chastening of the LORD in context refers to the words of correction provided through the inspired writer.

A Few Things Dads Do

1. They provide. The etymology of the word “Father” seems to have to do with being “a nourisher, protector, upholder.” They provide for their children physically (2 Corinthians 12:14). I have been reading a book about David Crockett. It tells how in his early boyhood days he was often “bound out” for months at a time to pay for his father’s debts. Fathers should be trying to provide for their children, and not the other way around. Note: This does not mean that a child has no responsibility to care for his parent(s) in their old age [Psalm 127:4-5 (“gates” cf. Deuteronomy 16:18; 21:18-20; Joshua 20:4; Ruth 4:1, 2, 11; Proverbs 22:22); 1 Timothy 5:4, 8, 16]. They should also provide for their children’s spiritual development (Gen. 18:19; Eph. 6:4). Four fold growth is the goal: (1) wisdom (mind); (2) stature (body); (3) favor with God (spiritual) (4) favor with men (social) see Luke 2:52.

2. They care. (Matthew 7:9-ff; Luke 11:11-ff). A loaf of bread and some stones may look similar. Some fish and some poisonous serpents may look similar. An egg and a rolled up scorpion may look similar. Fathers should not be needlessly cruel.

3. They care enough to exhort, comfort, and charge (1 Thessalonians 2:11). Exhort: lit. “to the side to call” (Vine’s). It could be to motivate. It could be to correct. Comfort: lit. “near speaking” (Vine’s). Charge: lit. “to testify” (Vine’s). It carries the idea of explaining how things are.

4. They care enough to correct (Hebrews 12:5-11). God’s creation is perfect. He knows what is best. He knows what to say and what to do. Earthly fathers sometimes make mistakes. They even sometimes correct the wrong child not knowing the details. However, good fathers do care enough to discipline. One who doesn’t care enough to do this might as well be regarding you as illegitimate, for such is how mere begetters, especially out of wedlock begetters, treat their children. Holly Dunn had a 1986 country music hit called “Daddy’s Hands,” (Note: her daddy was a gospel preacher, Frank Dunn of Texas ). Her song said, “Daddy’s hands were soft and kind when I was cryin’, Daddy’s hands were hard as steel when I’d done wrong. Daddy’s hands weren’t always gentle, but I’ve come to understand. There was always love in Daddy’s hands.”

If you have such a father, love him and appreciate him!

* Notes: (a) The words “what man among you…” expects a negative answer (Mt. 7:9; 12:11; cf. Lk. 11:5; 14:5-6; 15:4; 15:8). (b) “Good things” is equated with “Holy Spirit” (Lk. 11:13). This may refer to God answering prayer by the providential agency of the Holy Spirit. That is, it is the Holy Spirit which makes possible the receiving of these gifts. Another possibility is that this refers to the receiving of miraculous gifts through the agency of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 8:14-17 which is the only reference to anyone being given the Holy Spirit in connection with prayer.) Steve Wiggins wrote, “when Jesus instructed his disciples to pray for the Spirit, Joel’s prophesy was in the background, whereas the day of Pentecost and the initial pouring out of the Spirit was in the foreground… It is no more scriptural to pray for the reception of the Holy Spirit today, than it is to pray for the kingdom to come” (Hammer and Tongs, Nov.-Dec. 1992).

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Sheep v. Goats, Wheat v. Tares, Wheat v. Chaff

Posted on February 4, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

America has become increasingly urban. The twentieth century dawned with about 40% of the population living in urban areas and 60% living in rural areas; By 1990, it was 75% urban and 25% rural (www.pbs.org/fmc/1population.6.htm). Farmers and farm workers made up 69% of the labor force in 1840; This dropped to 38% in 1990 and just 2.6% in 1990 (www.investors.about.com/library/investors/blfarm.4.htm).

This urbanization of America has, unquestionably, lessened the average person’s familiarity with agriculture. However, numerous Biblical illustrations concern agriculture. It is our aim in this writing to clarify some comparative illustrations from agriculture.

Sheep v. Goats

Can you tell the difference? Even the novice can easily identify some sheep as sheep, and some goats as goats. However, there are varieties of each that are more difficult to distinguish to the untrained eye. They are so closely related that can reproduce, thought the offspring is sterile.

Here are some basic differences: (1) Sheep have 54 chromosomes. Goats have 60 chromosomes. (2) Sheep graze low to the ground. They eat grass, clover, and other low vegetation. Goats prefer to grace on higher things such as leaves, twigs, vines and shrubs. The eat the tops of many plants. They even stand on their hind legs to stretch for food. Some even climb into trees. (3) Sheep have a divided upper lip. Goats do not. (4) Sheep tails typically hang downward. Goats tails typically go upward. (5) Sheep have scent glands between the toes. Goats have scent glands beneath their tails. (6) Sheep have a stronger flocking nature. Goats are more independent and curious. (7) Most goats have horns. Many sheep do not. Goats horns are typically narrower and less curved than sheep horns. (8) Most goats do not have coats that require shearing. Many sheep need shearing. (9) Many goats have beards. Some sheep have manes. (10) A typical domesticated goat produces about four times as much milk as a typical domesticated sheep( most info came from www.sheep101.info).

Farmers in Israel were familiar with sheep and goats. An experienced shepherd could distinguish between the two.

Even so, Jesus can distinguish between sheep (righteous) and goats (unrighteous). There is coming a day when He will divide the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:31-33). Contextually, the distinguishing characteristic mentioned is how we treated others (Matthew 25:34-40 cf. Matthew 25:41-46). Such should not be construed to mean that such is the only distinguishing characteristic. However, Jesus does notice our character, and distinguishes accordingly.

Wheat v. Tares

Cereal grain was a common crop in Israel. Moses spoke at the abundance of wheat and barley (Deuteronomy 8:7-8). Wheat requires more water, than does barley. Areas blessed with adequate rainfall preferred wheat production. Areas with less rainfall grow barley.

Tares are a grassy weed. Neil Lightfoot has written, “There were several varieties of tares or darnel, the one most probably referred to in the parable is called ‘bearded darnel.’ This darnel looked very much like wheat, and in its early stages of growth was practically impossible to distinguish from wheat. But as soon as the grain began to head, anyone could tell the difference” (Parables of Jesus, part 1, p. 37). The French called this plant ‘darnel’ (meaning ‘stupefied’) due to its intoxicating properties. It caused trembling, inability to walk, hindered speech, and vomiting.

Sometimes a wheat field would be corrupted with tares. The wheat roots and the tare roots became intertwined. When this happened the following options existed: (1) If the tares were few and isolated they could be removed with limited damage to the total crop. (2) Sometimes the wheat grew taller and could be harvested over the tares. Afterwards, the field could be burned. (3) If neither of the aforementioned options were possible, if this was not an isolated situation, and if there wasn’t a consistent heighth difference, one option remained. Wait until the harvest to seperate the wheat from the tares. This prevented the damaging of the wheat by a pre-harvest uprooting of the tares (ibid).

The point of the parable of the wheat and tares is that there is a separation coming. In this world, the wicked and the righteous live side by side. At times we may wonder, if the wicked are scot-free. The truth is, a separation is coming. God does distinguish between wheat (righteous) and tares (unrighteous).

Wheat v. Chaff

The harvesting of the wheat plant from the field was not the end of the farmer’s labor. The wheat needed to be threshed (that is, the grain or seed needed to be separated from the rest of the plant, the husk and straw). The common method was to: (1) Take the wheat to a threshing floor.”The threshing floor was constructed in an exposed position in the fields, preferably on a slight elevation, so as to get the full benefit of the winds. It consisted of a circular area 25 to 40 feet in diameter, sloping slightly upward at the edges and was usually surrounded with a border of stone so as to keep in the grain. The floor was level and rolled hard” (The Zondervan’s Pictoral Bible Dictionary, p. 278). (2) Beat the wheat with a stick and/or trample the what under the weight of oxen feet and a pulled threshing sled (Deuteronomy 25:4; Isaiah 28:27). (3) Winnow the wheat. The plant was tossed into the air with a winnowing fan (pitchfork) or a shovel. This was usually done at night to take advantage of the night breezes. (a) The wind blew the light husks (chaff) and fine particles of straw (chaff) out of the threshing floor (Job 21:18; Psalm 1:4; 35:5; Isaiah 17:13; 29:5; 41:15-16; Daniel 2:35; Hosea 13:3; Zephaniah 2:2). (b) The heavier straw (chaff) the wind blew; However, such did not always escape the walls of the threshing floor. The wind carried such to the edges of the threshing floor. Sometimes this straw was put to some use (ISBE Vol. 1, p. 589). Frequently, it was simply gathered and burned (Isaiah 5:24; Matthew 3:12; Luke 3:17). (c) The grain (wheat) being heavier was not blown away by the wind as the chaff. It fell back into the bowl of threshing floor. (d) The grain (wheat) was next sifted to remove stones and other impurities. (e) Finally, the grain was removed and stored in barns (Luke 12:18).

The Bible says of Jesus, “His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire” (Matthew 3:12; Luke 3:17). The meaning, once more, is that He makes a distinction, and there is coming a separation.

We’re approaching the end of another year. It’s a good time for each to do self examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). Let’s honestly ask how God judges us… sheep or goats? Wheat or tares? Wheat or chaff?

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“The Just Shall Live by Faith”

Posted on February 4, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

“Living by faith, in Jesus above, Trusting, confiding in His great love; From all harm safe in His sheltering arms, I’m living by faith and feel no alarm.”  (Song: Living By Faith,  James Wells).

The Bible says, “the just (righteous ASV/NASB) shall live by faith.”  This is explicitly stated four times (Habakkuk 2:4; Galatians 3:11; Romans 1:17; Hebrews 10:38-39).  While it is explicitly stated only four times, the principle is implicitly found throughout the pages of the Bible, from beginning to end.  God’s expectations of man have always been consistent.  The specifics that He requires of man may change (Noah, build an ark; Abraham, go to a land that I will show you; Moses and children of Israel, keep the Passover; Joshua and children of Israel, encompass the walls of Jericho; Repent and be baptized, etc.).  However, the just have always lived by faith.  Truly, in this sense God’s plan of salvation has never changed.

Habakkuk 2:4

This is the first time the words actually appear in the Bible.  The emphasis is upon humility.  “Behold the proud.  His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith” (Habakkuk 2:4 NKJV).  Pride and living by faith are set in contrast.  Let’s remember, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble” (Proverbs 3:34; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5-6).  “Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).  Arrogance and self-righteousness does not impress Him (Luke 18:9-14).

The greater context concerns the Chaldeans afflicting Judah (Habakkuk 1).  God was using the Chaldeans to punish and humble Judah.  God would then punish the prideful, sinful Chaldeans (Habakkuk 2).  They (Israel) needed to trust Him, “the just shall live by his faith.” (Habakkuk 2:4).  The prophet then eloquently affirms his trust saying, “Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the field shall yield no meat.  The flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls; yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.  The Lord God is my strength…(Habakkuk 3:17-19).

I care not today what the morrow may bring if shaded or sunshine or rain, The Lord I know ruleth over everything, And all of my worry is vain.”  (Song: Living By Faith, James Wells).

Galatians 3:10-12

In this context,  the thing emphasized is the need for dependence on, and trust in God.  “For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the of the law to do them.  But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for the just shall live by faith.  And the law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them” (Galatians 3:10-12).

Violations of a legal system places one under a curse.  Laws do not justify.  Laws condemn lawbreakers.  Violate human law, such as state traffic laws or city building codes, and you can be judged and condemned.  Violation of Mosaic Law brought one under the curse of the law (Galatians 3:10, cf. Deuteronomy 27:26).  Law, itself, does not make the violator just.

The only possible way one could truly stand just under a purely legal system would be to perfect keep the law, with not even one transgression (Galatians 3:12).  Such a one would not have to depend upon God for a state of justness.  So much for that! (Romans 3:10, 23).

The just are those who live by faith (Galatians 3:11).  They depend upon God (Galatians 3:22).

Please, don’t misunderstand.  We, today are under a legal system (Galatians 6:2; Romans 8:2, 7; Hebrews 10:16; James 1:25; 2:8).  If there be no law, then there could be no sin (Romans 4:15; 5:13, cf. 1 John 1:8).  If there be no law, then there could be no sin (Romans 4:15; 5:13 cf. 1 John 3:4).  However, we are not under a purely legal system.  The just live by faith.  Their goodness and morality alone is not sufficient.  The depend upon and trust in God for justification.  Paul wrote “if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain”  (Galatians 2:21).    Those who walk by faith accept both their need for grace and God’s conditions for it.  “For ye are all children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.  For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ lave put on Christ “[(Galatians 3:26-27).  Note: The definite article appears before the term ‘faith’.  It is speaking of the objective standard of faith which of course we must accept ].

Romans 1:16-17

The emphasis in this passage is upon accepting God’s plan for man’s righteousness.  “For I am not ashamed  (cf. 2 Timothy  1:8, 12, 16) of the gospel of Christ [The gospel includes: facts concerning Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:1-4),  a message to be preached (Mark 16:15; Romans 1:15), and a doctrine to be believed and obeyed (2 Thessalonians 1:6-8; 1 Peter 4:17; Romans 6:16-17, cf. 6:3-5; Mark 16:15-16)] for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone (Jew and Gentile, male and female, bond and free) that believeth (obedient belief, not mere mental assent.  See, Romans 1:5; 6:16-17, cf. 6:3-5; Matthew 7:21; Hebrews 5:8-9) to the Jew first and also to the Greek (Luke 24:47; Acts. 3:26; 13:46; 18:5-6; Romans 1:16; 2:9-11).  For therein (in the Gospel cf. Romans 1:16) is the righteousness of God revealed (not God’s own personal righteousness, but God’s plan for man’s righteousness (cf. Romans 10:3-4; 4:1-7) from faith to faith [lit. “out of faith into faith” (a variety of meanings have been suggested by commentators, some possible others not: (1) faith of the preacher to faith of the hearer; (2) acquire faith of hearer to responsive faith of hearer; (3) receiving faith of hearer to increasing and maturing faith.  (4) Old Testament and New Testament (objective systems of faith) which revealed the personal righteousness of God; (5) Old Testament and New Testament each teaching that man can stand righteous before God by faith; (6) faith only – this interpretation is blatantly false; (7) faith first to last, meaning that man’s part begins and ends in faith.  It is summed up in faith – not mere mental assent, but a trustful walk through life following God; (8) objective system of faith (the Gospel) to subjective or personal faith; (9) the personal faith of Jesus which produces and motivates a faith in us, cf. Romans 3:22)]: as it is written, the just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:16-17).

Look at it again: “therein (in the Gospel) is the righteousness of God revealed… the just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17).  God’s way for man’s righteousness is revealed in the Gospel.  The just live by faith, that is they accept and follow God’s plan for righteousness.  Absolute sinlessness and flawlessness is not required to be counted just.  What is required is that one has faith in Him, and lives his life accordingly.  The just one accepts and follows God’s plan for man’s righteousness.

Hebrews 10:35-39

In this context, patience (endurance) is being emphasized.  Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward (reward: Hebrews 10:35 cf. 11:16, 11:26).  For ye have need of patience (patience: Hebrews 10:36, cf. 12:1; 6:12-18) that after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise (promise: Hebrews 10:36, cf. 4:1; 6:12-18; 11:9-10; 11:29-40; Tit. 1:2)… Now the just shall live by faith; but if any man draw back, my soul hath no pleasure in him.  But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition, but of them that believe to the saving of the soul” (Hebrews 10:35-39).

There are many trials and difficulties in the life of a Christian.  However, the just live by faith.  They just don’t give up, or “throw in the towel” when it comes to seeking to follow God.  “Let us not grow weary in well-doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9).  “Be ye steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye knew that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).  Don’t give up; Heaven will surely be worth it all!

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You Won’t Be Ashamed!

Posted on February 4, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

Ashamed: “Feeling shame” (Funk + Wagnalls). Shame: “A painful sense of guilt or degradation” (Funk + Wagnalls); “A painful sensation excited by a consciousness of guilt, or having done something which injures reputation; or by the exposure of that which nature or modesty prompts one to conceal” (Webster). We’re talking about embarrassment, something that makes one blush, and even wish to hide his face.

We’ve all experienced it. (1) Sometimes it is due to non-sinful matters—a forgotten appointment, static cling, zipper down, dress tucked into pantyhose, etc. (2) Sometimes it is due to sin—being caught in a lie, being caught in the act or exposed for committing some sin. Shame can be a good thing. There are things which should cause us to blush (Jeremiah 6:15; 8:12; Ezra 9:6). Shame can prompt one to confess and repent of sin. David once prayed, “Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your loving kindness; According to the multitude of Your tender mercies, Blot out my transgressions, Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions, And my sin is always before me” (Psalm 51:1-3). David was haunted by his quilt. His sin was always before him. That is, he was ashamed. Paul wrote much about shame (1 Corinthians 6:5; 11:6; 14:35; 15:39; Ephesians 5:11-12). It is spiritually healthy to be able to feel shame over sin.

 [NOTE: There are four states concerning shame and sin. (1) A person may have shame for sin. David had shame over his personal sins (Psalm 51:1-3). Ezra felt shame over the sins of his people, his nation (Ezra 9:6). (2) A person may have no shame for sin (Jeremiah 6:15; 8:12). When one has no shame for sin, it could be: (a) because of Biblical ignorance; (b) due to being past feeling, having the conscience seared (Ephesians 4:19; 1 Timothy 4:2). (3) A person may be forgiven for sin, yet feel shame. This one needs to learn to forgive self. Perhaps, this is part of “forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead” (Philippians 3:13). Perhaps, some of us are like David, who prayed, “remember not the sins of my youth” (Psalm 25:7). (4) A person may be forgiven, and thus have a clear conscience (Hebrew 10:22; cf. 10:1-2; 1 Peter 3:21 ESV). This is the ideal.]

Back to the main point of this article—there are things which make us feel ashamed in this life; however, there is something that will never bring shame in the end: Trusting in Him.

Isaiah 28

“Therefore thus says the Lord God: ‘Behold I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; whoever believes will not act hastily” (Isaiah 28:16).

Judah was facing a serious threat to her national security. A flood of Assyrians were coming (Isaiah 8:7; 28:2). Judah’s rulers ridiculed the words of the prophet (Isaiah 28:14-15; cf. 28:2; 8:7). They trusted in their alliance with Egypt (Isaiah 30:1-7; 36:6-9).

It is in this context that God tells them of a sure foundation. The immediate reference may be that the sure foundation was to be found in trusting in Him and His word (Isaiah 28:16; cf. 8:11-15. Also see, Deuteronomy 32:1-4; Genesis 49:22-26, esp. v. 24b). The words “act hastily” (NKJV) or “make haste” (KJV) seems to mean that if they would trust in Him they would not be put to flight. Hezekiah prayed to God trusting in Him (2 Kings 19:15-35). The result? God spared the city (2 Kings 19:32-37; 2 Chronicles 32:20-26; Isaiah 37:33-38).

 Isaiah 49

“They shall not be ashamed who wait for Me” (Isaiah 49:23).

The background is this—Hezekiah was told of a captivity in Babylon that would come upon Judah following his death (Isaiah 39:5-8; 2 Kings 20:16-19). This captivity was to last seventy years (Jeremiah 25:11-13; 29:10; Daniel 9:2; 2 Chronicles 36:21-22). The book of Isaiah tells of a return (Isaiah 44:24-ff). Some while in captivity would think that the Lord had forgotten them (Isaiah 49:14). He had not. He keeps His word.

The teaching is that one will not be ashamed if they trust in God’s words and in His promises. God does not lie (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18). “He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself” (2 Timothy 2:13).

Romans 9

“Behold I lay in Zion a stumbling stone and rock of offense, And whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame” (Romans 9:33).

The thoughts go back to the book of Isaiah. Paul seems to tie three passages together: Isaiah 8:13-14; Isaiah 28:16; and Isaiah 49:23 (though, the wording “put to shame” may be from the LXX rendering of Isaiah 28:16).

The words “on Him” refer to Jesus. He is the “chief cornerstone” (Matthew 21:42; Mark 12:10; Luke 20:17; Acts 4:11; Ephesians 2:20; 1 Peter 2:4, 6-8; cf. Psalm 118:22). We can be built on Him (1 Peter 2:7; cf. Ephesians 2:20) or trip over Him (1 Peter 2:8).

The context is this: many Israelites had sought for righteousness apart from Jesus (Romans 9:31-10:4). They had stumbled over the idea of Jesus as their savior (Romans 9:32). Elsewhere, Paul wrote, “we preach Christ crucified to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness” (1 Corinthians 1:23). However, those who believe on Him  will not be ashamed in the end that they did so.

Romans 10

“Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame” (Romans 10:11).

The context is very similar to that of the previous passage. However, the emphasis is on the wording “whoever”. Paul moves beyond the Israelites to all of humanity. He expounds on the “whoever” by saying “for there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him for ‘whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved’” (Romans 10:12-13). This returns to the thesis of the book “the gospel of Christ … is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek” (Romans 1:16).

 1 Peter 2

“‘Behold, I lay in Zion a chief cornerstone, elect, precious, and he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame’

Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient ‘The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone,’ and ‘A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense’” (1 Peter 2:6-8).

This passage references three passages. Verse six is from Isaiah 28:16. Verse seven is from Psalm 118:22. Verse eight is from Isaiah 8:14.

The context concerns the point that the church is precious to God. The church is His temple (1 Peter 2:5; cf. 1 Timothy 3:15; 1 Corinthians 3:16). The church is His priesthood (1 Pet. 2:5, 9). The church is offering up to Him spiritual sacrifices (Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 13:15).

The reason we can have this relationship with Him is because of Jesus. We “offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5). It is “by Him” that we “offer the sacrifice of praise to God” (Hebrews 13:15). We certainly will not be ashamed for believing in Him in the end!

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You Are Called!

Posted on January 20, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

Elbert Anderson was a government contractor during the war of 1812.  He purchased goods and resold them to the U.S. government.  The good were inspected by two brothers Ebenezer and Samuel Wilson prior to the purchase.  Samuel Wilson became known to some as “Uncle Sam”.  Purchased good were marked “E.A.-U.S..”  The “E.A.” stood for Elbert Anderson.  The “U.S.” stood for the United States.  However, some jokingly said that the “U.S.” stood for Uncle Sam.  Thus, Uncle Sam and the United States government became connected in thought.  Uncle Sam posters were made for recruitment purposes in WWI.  You no doubt are familiar with the image: An elderly man dressed in the national colors – red, white, and blue, and pointing his finger saying, “I Want You For U.S. Army”.  This image was the creation of James Montgomery Flagg, created in 1917.

God Calls Us

Uncle Sam isn’t the only one who calls for recruits.  God calls us.  Paul wrote, “We are bound to give thanks to God always for you… He called you” (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14).  Peter spoke of “the God of all grace who called us…” (1 Peter 5:10; cf. 2:9-10).  Jesus also calls us.  Paul wrote, “…you also are called of Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:6).

To What?

To what is it that God is calling us?  (1) In this earthly existence, He calls us to: (a) Obedience.  Paul wrote, “We have obtained grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations… among whom you also were called of Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:5-6).  (b) Light.  Peter wrote, “(He) called you out of darkness and into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).  We are to “walk in the light” (1 John 1:6-7; cf. 2:9-11).  (c) Holiness.  Paul pointed out that “God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness” (1 Thessalonians 4:7).  The context concerns behavior.  Notice “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality (fornication – KJV); that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God” (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5).  We are to “pursue” holiness, without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).  (d) Fellowship.  Paul said, “God called (you) into the fellowship of His son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9).  This fellowship is conditional (see 1 John 1:6-7).

(2) Ultimately, God calls us to a better life in the hereafter.  He calls us to: (a) His Kingdom.  “God… calls you into His own kingdom” (1 Thessalonians 2:12).  This seems to refer to His kingdom’s existence in the hereafter (cf. Acts 14:22; 2 Tim. 4:18).  (b) Glory.  “God… calls you into… glory” (1 Thessalonians 2:12).  “God… called us to eternal glory” (1 Peter 5:10).  “He called you… for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 2:14).  A glorious existence with Christ awaits (Romans 8:17).  A glorious body like unto His awaits (Philippians 3:20-21; 1 John 3:2).  (c) A heavenly calling (Heb. 3:1).  This connects with another passage in the same book, “But now they (Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob – B.H.) desired a better, that is to say, a heavenly country.  Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God for he has prepared a city for them” (Hebrews 11:16).  W.E. Vine’s made this observation, “It (kaleo) is used particularly if the divine call to partake of the blessings of redemption (Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words).

 How?

How does God call us to these things?  Does He whisper into our ear?  Does He appear to us in a night’s dream?  No.  God calls us by means of the gospel.  Notice: “He called you by our gospel, for obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 2:14).

 Man’s Choice

God’s call is not without conditions.  Peter said, “Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:10-11).  If you do not what things?  The answer is the things listed in verses five through nine.  God has called us to glory; however, it is upon us to make this calling to glory become the reality of our glory.

God is Calling the Prodigal

God  is calling the prodigal come without delay.  Hear, O hear him calling, calling now for thee; Tho you’ve wandered so far from His presence, come today; Hear His loving voice calling still.

Come, there’s bread in the house of the Father, and to spare; Hear O hear Him calling, calling now for thee; Lo! The table is spread and the feast is waiting there; Hear His loving voice calling still.                                                                                                                   

Calling, now for thee, O weary prodigal, come; calling now for thee, O weary prodigal come.”

(Song by Charles H. Gabriel)

A Special Call

It is true that God throughout the Bible called certain one’s to certain works.  Examples from the Old Covenant include: (a) Moses (Ex. 3-4); (b) Gideon (Judges 6); (c) Ezekiel 1-3), and many others.  Please note: in each case, sufficient evidence was provided to verify the call.  Examples from the New Covenant include: (a) The Twelve (Matthew 10); (b) Paul (Acts 9, 22, 26); and perhaps Timothy (1 Timothy 4:14; cf. 2 Timothy 1:6).  Again, it should be pointed out that sufficient evidence was provided to verify the call.

Some preachers today, especially in the denominational world, claim to have received a special call.  This claim is one which begs many questions.  John Waddy has asked a few – “The usual practice is, the man receives his call from God, then the church decides whether or not to license him.  This is sheer presumption.  If God calls a man to preach, how dare any fallible group of humans to make a man first get their approval and license to do what God specifically called him to do?  What if God calls a man and the church refuses to license him?… If a preacher is specifically called of God and appointed, what right has a congregation to… dismiss him?  Is it reasonable that God would specifically call preachers into some 2000 different warring denominational groups?  Would He call them to preach different doctrines; different plans of salvation…”? (Fortify Your Faith, March 07, 2009)

The real question is, “where is the proof?”  God provided Moses with miraculous proof so that Israel “may believe the Lord God of their fathers… has appeared to you” (Exodus 4:5).  Don’t expect any proof from them (A careful study of 1 Corinthians 13 and Ephesians 4 establishes the fact that miracles ceased with God’s complete New Covenant system being revealed).

There was a test for prophets under the Old Covenant.  (1) Their message should not contradict any of God’s previously revealed truth (Deuteronomy 13:1-5).  This is true even if any sign or wonder was provided (Deuteronomy 13:1-5).  (2) If a prophecy is provided, it should come to pass (Deuteronomy 18:20-22).

Some preachers among us are starting to use this language of being called.  (1) Sometimes they mean that they feel a certain nudging with them telling them to do this work.  One should be very careful about this.  The denominational preachers can make the same claim.  (2) Sometimes they say that God provided them with a sign.  Marshall Keeble told the story of a young man who saw “GP” in a cloud formation.  He took it to mean “go preach”.  The father of the son told him it meant “go pick”.  They were cotton pickers.  (3)  Sometimes they mean that God seems to be opening doors and closing others,  thereby guiding them.  I certainly believe in God’s providence.  However, the nature of God’s providence is such that it is behind the scenes.  One can’t say for sure that something is God’s providence unless He’s revealed such with words (Esther 4:14; Philemon 1:15).

The evidence of special callings today is lacking; however, we’ve all been called by the gospel to a glorious future in heaven.

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Will You Be In Glory?

Posted on January 3, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

The term “glory is used in different ways in the Bible.  The Hebrew term (kabod) has to do with “something weighty” (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament).  It is used of that which is important, or impressive or of honor.  The Greek term (doxa) “primarily signifies an opinion, estimate, and hence, the honor resulting from a good opinion” (W.E. Vine’s). 

The Bible sometimes speaks of our glorifying God.  “In the N.T…. giving God glory means acknowledging (Acts 12:23) or extolling (Luke 2:14) what is already a reality” (TDNT).  It should be evident that we can add nothing to Him.

The Bible also uses the term of “splendor” [Vine’s (see 1 Corinthians 15:40-41)].  I believe that it is in this sense that the term “glory” is used of the faithful’s existence in the after-life.

Jesus

Jesus prayed, “O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was” (John 17:5).  He said to the two men on the road to Emmaus, “Ought not Christ to have suffered these things and entered into His glory?” (Luke 24:26).  He was “received up in glory” (1 Timothy 3:16).  He has a “glorious body” (Philippians 3:20-21).

Us

God’s plan was for us to be a part of that heavenly glory.  Paul wrote, “We speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7).  God has called us by the gospel to obtain glory (2 Thessalonians 2:14; 1 Thessalonians 2:12), eternal glory (1 Peter 5:10).  Jesus desired that we see Him in glory (John 17:24).  We’re told, “When Christ who is our life appears, then (we) also will appear with Him in glory” (Colossians 3:4).  However, we must be faithful.  Paul wrote, “If children, then heirs – heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him that we may also be glorified together” (Romans 8:17).  A glorified body awaits.  “There are also celestial bodies and terrestrial bodies; but the glory of the celestial is one and the glory of the terrestrial is another… So also is the resurrection of the dead.  The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in corruption.  It is sown in dishonor.  It is raised in glory.  It is sown in weakness.  It is raised in power” (1 Corinthians 15:40-43).  Jesus “will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body” (Philippians 3:20-21).  “It has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).  Note: This does not mean that we’ll be like Him in every way.  It only means that we’ll have a glorified body suitable for that heavenly existence.

Glory For Me

“When all my labors and trials are o’er, And I am safe on that beautiful shore, Just to be near the dear Lord I adore will thro’ the ages be glory for me.

When, by the gift of His infinite grace, I am accorded in heaven a place, Just to be there and to look on His face will through the ages be glory for me.

Friends will be there I have loved long ago; Joy like a river around me will flow; Yet just a smile from my Savior I know will thro’ the ages be glory for me.

O that will be glory for me, Glory for me, glory for me; when by His grace I shall look on His face, That will be glory, be glory for me.”

(Song by Charles H. Gabriel)

Stay Focused

Paul prayed that the brethren knew “what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance” (Ephesians 1:18).  Stay focused (Colossians 3:13-14).

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