Heaven Assured

Posted on March 6, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

2 Peter 1:10-11 assures, “if ye do these things ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

If ye do what things?  The context takes one back to 2 Peter 1:5-7.  Let’s notice:

1.  Add to your faith.

Most take this as a reference to personal faith.  That is: Peter is starting with the understanding that they had belief and trust in God (Hebrews 11:6; Romans 10:17).  Based upon this faith, they were (and we are) to add these other traits.

The definite article is present.  Therefore, some have taken this objectively (Acts 6:7; Galatians 1:23; Jude 3).  The literal reading is “the faith of you.”  Thus some take this to mean that God has provided the system of faith (2 Peter 1:5 cf. 1:3) and man is to supply or add these characteristics which follow.

Either way, the meaning does not change much for it is from objective faith that personal faith is derived (Romans 10:17).  It all starts with God’s word and our personal trust.

Note: On the wording “add to your faith” KJV or “supply to your faith” ASV – the original word was a term used in music.  “As here used, the graces which adorn the Christian’s character are to be chorused into a grand symphony…”  (Guy Woods Commentary on Peter, John and Jude, page 150).

2.  Virtue

The word has to do with “strength,” ”might,” or “power.”  Here it has to do with inner strength and courage.  Adam Clark remarks, “courage or fortitude, to enable you to profess the faith before men”.  The NASB renders it “moral excellence”.

We as God’s people must add to our faith the courage to do the right thing regardless of others, faith like that of Joshua (Joshua 24:15).  1 Corinthians 16:13 reads, “watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men (be brave NKJV, act like men NASB), be strong.”  2 Timothy 1:7 says, “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”  The fearful will not make it (Revelation 21:8; John 12:42-43; cf. Matthew 10:28, 32).

3. Knowledge

The word “knowledge” appears in every chapter of this book, 5 times in this chapter alone (2 Peter 1:2, 3, 5, 6, 8; 2:20; 3:18).  A total of 16 times it appears in some form in this book (know: 2 Peter 1:12; 3:17 / knowest: 2 Peter 2:9 / knowing: 2 Peter 1:14; 1:20; 3:3 / knowledge: 2 Peter 1:2, 3, 5, 6, 8; 2:20; 3:3 / known: 2 Peter 1:16; 2:21; 2:21).  We are commanded to spiritually grow (2 Peter 3:18).  This growth comes by feeding upon the word of God (1 Peter 2:1-3).  God expects us to develop ourselves into teachers of His word (Hebrews 5:12).  Adam Clark comments on this growth in knowledge “…by which your faith   will be increased, and your courage directed, and preserved from degenerating into rashness”.

4.  Temperance

  The ASV, NASB, NKJV and the ESV all render this word “self control”.  Thayer writes “self control… the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions esp. his sensual appetites.”

The Christian life requires self-control.  The Christian is to keep under control: (1) tongue (James 1:26; Ephesians 4:29); (2) temper (Proverbs 16:32; 29:20; Ephesians 4:26; James 1:19-20); (3) body (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4; 1 Corinthians 9:27); (4) thought (2 Corinthians 10:5); and (5) entire being (Romans 12:1-2; Galatians 2:20).

5.  Patience

  The NASB and the NKJV renders this “perseverance”.  The ESV reads “steadfastness”.  Zondervan’s parallel New Testament renders this “endurance”.  The word means (literally) “to abide under”.  The idea is of being able to stand even under great weight like a beast of burden.

We, as Christians, need to be steadfast, consistent, and enduring in spite of the difficulties and hardships in life.  It is not enough to start toward the promised land; we need to finish the course (1 Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 6:9; 2 Timothy 4:6-7; Hebrews 12:1).

6.  Godliness

  This word appears four times in this book (2 Peter 1:3, 6, 7; 3:11).  The word means according to Vine’s “eu=well, and sebomai=to be devout… denotes that piety which, characterized by a Godward attitude, does that which is pleasing to Him.”  Thayer says the word included the idea of “reverance, respect… piety toward God”.  Adam Clark commented, “piety toward God… not only worshipping God with every becoming outward act, but adoring, loving, and magnifying Him in the heart.”

The Bible indicates that God wants us to follow Him, not just out of a sense of obligation and necessity, but out of love.  Read Matthew 15:8; Mark 12:30; John 4:24; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16; 2 Corinthians 9:7.

7. Brotherly kindness

  The ASV reads “love of the brethren.”  The ESV reads “brotherly affection.”

As brothers and sisters in Christ we are a part of one family.  Paul told Timothy to treat the older men and women in the church as fathers and mothers, and the younger men and women as brothers and sisters (1 Timothy 5:1-2 cf. Mark 10:2; 10:29-30).  Hebrews 13:1 exhorts “Let brotherly love continue.”  1 Peter 2:17 instructs “Love the brotherhood.”  1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 urges that in this we “increase more and more”.  Paul desired that Christians hearts be “knit together in love”. (Colossians 2:1-2).  Again, He writes pleading with Christians to be “forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:2-3).  Jesus said, “By this shall men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love for one another.” (John 13:35).

8.  Charity

I believe that nearly all current translations render this “love.” This is agape love.

This takes it a step farther.  While we are to have phileo love for our brethren.  Agape love is owed to all.  Agape love is not necessarily an emotional closeness or friendship kind of love; it is a concern for others which manifests itself in Godly living and in the characteristics mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13.  Vine’s, “Christian love… is not an impulse from the feelings.  It does not always run with natural inclinations, nor does it spend itself only upon those for whom affinity is discovered… love seeks the welfare of all.”  Agape love is not an impulse of feeling but a deliberate exercise of the will.  Christians are to do what is right unto others because it is right.  (See Luke 6:32-33; 14:12-13).

These traits are to be pursued with “all diligence” (2 Peter 1:5, cf. 1:10) or as the ESV puts it “every effort” (2 Peter 1:5).  If you, brother or sister Christian, will do these things you will be in heaven in the end!

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 9

Posted on February 26, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

They stand as three beautiful high peaks.　 Yet, one rises even higher than the other two.　 It is love.

The three words sum up what living the Christian life “under the sun” or “under the heaven” is all about.　 However, one of these three is even superior to the other two.　 It is love.

Today, we’ll finish off the series.　 We’ll do so by considering a few thought provoking passages on love.

A More Excellent Way (1 Corinthians 12:31)

The Corinthians brethren were prideful and arrogant over their miraculous gifts, which God had given unto them (1 Corinthians 4:7 cf. 12:4-12, 14-27).　 “A more excellent way” concerns love (1 Corinthians 12:31-13:7).　 Love is more excellent than miraculous gifts (1 Corinthians 13).　 They were to use their gifts, not to boastfully build themselves up, but instead, to build up (or edify) one another (1 Corinthians 14).　 “Let all things be done for edification” [1 Corinthians 14:26 (Note: the term “edify”　occurs, in some form, a multitude of times in 1 Corinthians and especially in chapter 14 of the book.　 See: 8:1; 10:23; 14:3, 4, 5, 12, 26)].　 “Let all things be done decently and in order” [1 Corinthians 14:40 (that is, in a manner which is conducive to edification cf. v. 26)].　”Let all things be done with love” [(1 Corinthians 16:14).　 Notice, the connection between ‘love’ and ‘edification’ (1 Corinthians 16:14 cf. 1 Corinthians 14:26)].　 “A more excellent way” has to do with lovingly using miraculous gifts to edify others.

May we each decide to use whatever abilities and talents we possess in a positive way, not in exaltation of self, but in edifying others.　 This is “a more excellent way.”

Now Abide (1 Corinthians 13:13)

The context concerns the passing of miraculous gifts (1 Corinthians 13:8-ff).　 (1) Prophesies would “fail” (NKJV), or “be done away” (NASB) or, “pass away” (ESV).　 (2) Tongues would “cease” (NKJV, NASB, ESV).　 (3) Knowledge would “vanish away” (NKJV), or “be done away” (NASB), or “pass away” (ESV).　 The reference is to the miraculous knowledge (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:8).　 These three are used as a figure of speech (synecdoche) to stand for all miraculous gifts.　 {(Note: There are three categories mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10.　 This may not be obvious in the English but it is in the Greek [The term ‘heteros‘ separates the list into 3 categories: (1) Word of wisdom and word of knowledge; (2) faith; healings; miracles; prophecy; discern of spirits; (3) tongues and interpretation of tongues].　 In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul mentioned one item out of each category previously mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12 to speak of all types of miraculous workings coming to an end]}.　 It is beyond our purpose today, to establish the time of termination of miracles.　 It is sufficient for our purpose to simply state that the point being made by Paul is that miracles will not last.

Standing in sharp contrast, there are things more enduring in Christianity.　 “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8).　 “Now abide faith, hope, love, these three…” (1 Corinthians 13:13).　 The word rendered “abide” is translated elsewhere in the New Testament by such words as “continue,” “tarry,” and “remain.”　 Miraculous gifts would not endure – faith, hope, and love would.　 They are enduring characteristics of Christianity.

The Corinthian brethren needed to examine their emphasis.　 They needed to place greater emphasis on those enduring qualities of Christianity, and less on the temporary tools they had been given, and alas, over which they were so egotistical.

The Greatest of These (1 Corinthians 13:13)

Why is “love” even greater than “faith” and “hope”?　 The common explanation is: (1) Faith one day will disappear into sight (2 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 11:1).　 (2) Hope one day will become realized and thus no longer be hope (Romans 8:24).　 (3) However, love will endure even into eternity.　 This explanation has some vitality to it.　 Hope and sight do not go together (Romans 8:24).　 Moreover, the kind of faith which we have now is without sight (2 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 11:1).　 This type of faith will be no more.　 Further, it is true that love will continue in heaven for “God is love” (1 John 4:8, 16).　 Love existed even before the foundation of the world (John 17:24).

However, there is some difficulty with this common explanation.　 While it is true that faith and sight do not currently go together, they are not mutually exclusive.　 Mac Deaver points out, “There was a time when faith and sight went together (cf. John 20:29)…　 We now have faith in absence of sight (2 Corinthians　5:7).　 But, the day is coming when faith and sight will be together again” (Faith and Knowledge: A Refutation of Agnosticism, p. 11-12).　 We won’t stop believing in Him just because we see Him! (Note: I grant that it is possible that faith in 1 Corinthians 13:13 refers to the kind of faith we currently have, faith without sight).

There is another possible explanation.　 “Love” is the greatest, because of the effect that it has on the other two.　 (1) Love causes faith to become action (Galatians 5:6).　 It is the great motivator.　 A man may have dead faith (James 2:17), that is inactive faith; however, when faith is mixed with love (love for God, and love for humanity) it will act.　 (2) It is due to the love of God that man has any hope at all (2 Thessalonians 2:16; cf. John 3:16; cf. 1 Timothy 1:1; cf. 1 Peter 1:3-4).　 Add to this, it is only when our love is what it should be, that we truly have hope (1 John 4:12, 17-18).　 So, “how is your love life?”

God is Love (1 John 4:8, 16)

“The Bible makes the unique revelation that God in His very nature and essence is love… Christianity being the only religion thus to present the Supreme Being” (Zondervan’s Pictorial Dictionary, p. 493).　 The God of the Bible is a God of love.

Are we a people of love?　 I leave each of us with this assignment: (1) Read the following sections of scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:1-7; 1 John 3:10-24; and 1 John 4:7-21.　 (2) Recognize how genuine love should behave.　 (3) Replace the word “love” with your personal name when reading of the qualities of love (e.g., “love is patient…” etc., becomes “Bryan is patient…”).　 Ask yourself honestly if such truly describes you. [Illustrations: (a) In math, if a=b and b=c, then a=c.　Thus if　you are a loving person, and love has a given characteristic, then you too should have that characteristic. (b) In language, the definition of a word can be used to replace a word in a sentence. Thus, if love is best described by its behavior characteristics, then if you are loving, as you should be,　you should possess the same behavior characteristics].　(4) Resolve to grow in love, working especially on any obvious shortcomings.

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 8

Posted on February 19, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

“Every Bible chapter is great for the purpose for which it was intended… There are some chapters, however, that stand out because they address universal human needs, or because they provide comfort in time of distress, or because they are majestic in their sweep of some Bible theme” (Alan Highers, Spiritual Sword, Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 1).　 In part 6 and 7 of this series we examined one of these “stand out” chapters, “The love chapter” (1 Corinthians 13).　 We would be remiss if we did not include “The faith chapter” (Hebrews 11) in this series.　 Let’s notice…

Hebrews 11

Faith is: (1) “the substance (assurance NASB, ESV) of things hoped for” (Heb. 11:1 NKJV).  The word “substance” or assurance” could also be rendered “confidence” (Vine’s, Thayer). (2) “the evidence (conviction NASB, ESV) of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1 NKJV).　 The word “evidence” or “conviction” may refer to a conviction, but it is a conviction based upon evidence.　 Adam Clark points out “Aristotle uses it (the original word) for a mathematical demonstration.”　 The words are defined as “A proof, that by which a thing is proved or tested… (sometimes) in accordance with the preceding… of the inward result of proving viz a conviction” (Thayer).

Let’s notice this type of faith in action:

1.　 It trusts God.

Noah had never seen a global flood.　 Likely, he had never even seen rain (Genesis 2:5-6; Rain is first mentioned in Genesis 7).　 Yet, he “being divinely warned of things not yet seen” constructed an ark of gopherwood 300 cubits long (450 ft.) by 50 cubits wide (75ft.) by 30 cubits high (45 ft.), thereby saving his household (Hebrews 11:7).

Abraham had the same characteristic.　 He left his home and “went out, not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8).　 He trusted God enough to follow Him to an unknown place. Abraham was willing to offer up his son Isaac (Hebrews 11:17-ff).　 Abraham had waited for years to receive this son (Genesis 12:1-2, 6-7; 15:18 cf. 21:5).　 God instructed that Isaac be offered up as a burnt offering (Genesis 22:1-ff).　 Abraham knew that God had made a promise through Isaac (Hebrews 11:18; Genesis 15:18; 21:12) and God keeps His promises (Hebrews 6:18; Titus 1:2).　 Thus, he reasoned that “God was able to raise him up, even from the dead” (Hebrews 11:19).　 Very likely, it is that Abraham had never seen such.　 There are only three resurrections mentioned in the Old Testament, and the first recorded happened long after this (1 Kings 17:22; 2 Kings 4:22; 2 Kings 13:20-21).　 He believed completely in God’s promises and in God’s power to achieve them. Abraham lived his physical life desiring to enter into that heavenly land (Hebrews 11:10, 16).　 He considered himself but a pilgrim on earth (Hebrews 11:13).

Isaac, likewise, manifested this type of faith.　 Though, he was still living in a foreign land, Isaac blessed his sons for he knew that through his seed would come greater things (Hebrews 11:20 cf. Genesis 12:2-3; 13:14-16; 15:18; 22:7-8; 27:29).

Jacob had faith in God concerning things not seen.　 Despite the fact that it would be a couple of hundred years before Jacob’s family would enter the promised land {[430 (Galatians 3:17) minus 25 (Genesis 12:4 cf. 21:5) minus 60 (Genesis 25:26) minus 147 (Genesis 47:28) = 198] plus 40 (Numbers 14:33) = 238}.　 Jacob expected them to one day leave Egypt and possess that promised land.

Therefore, he instructed them to go ahead and have him buried there (Hebrews 47:28-48:6).　 Joseph honored the wishes of his father (Genesis 50:7-14).　

Joseph had the same faith.　 He instructed that when the children of Israel left Egypt, that his bones were to be carried to the promised land (Hebrews 11:22 cf. Genesis 50:24-25).　 They were (Exodus 13:19; Joshua 24:32), years later {it was 184 years between Joseph’s death and the promised land entrance. [This is est. by the following facts: (1) Joseph’s 130 entering Egypt (Genesis 47:8-9); (2) Joseph’s 39 at the time: 30 (Genesis 41:46), plus 14 (Genesis 41:29-30) minus 5 (Genesis 46:6, 11) = 39; (3) Thus, Joseph was 56, when his father died at 147 (Genesis 47:28); (4) Joseph died at 110 (Genesis 50:26), 54 years after the death of his father.]}　 Remember this great chapter begins faith is the assurance and conviction “of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

2. It obeys.

Noah “prepared an ark for the saving of his house” (Hebrews 11:7).　 This he did complying with God’s instructions.　 The Bible says, “Thus Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did” (Genesis 6:22).　 He even moved his family on board the ark a full week prior to the flood (Genesis 7:4, 7, 10), while there was yet no physical indication of what was coming　(2 Peter 3:1-7; Matthew 24:37-39).

Abraham’s life was characterized by obedience.　 We’re told, “Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out…” (Hebrews 11:8).　 We’re told, “Abraham, when he was tested, offered Isaac…” (Hebrews 11:17).

Faith causes one to obey God even when it makes no sense from a purely earthly standpoint.　 Consider the Passover (Hebrews 11:28 cf. Exodus 12).　 Consider the walls of Jericho (Hebrews 11:30 cf. Joshua 6).

3. It properly worships.

Abel and Cain’s sacrifices are contrasted (Hebrews 11:4).　 Abel’s offering was by faith (Hebrews 11:4).　 Yet, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).　 Evidently, instructions were given.　 Abel complied and Cain did not.　 Some have thought that Cain was rejected because he offered a grain offering (Note: There were grain offerings under Moses, e.g., Leviticus 21).　 I can’t say with absolute certainty that such is the reason Cain’s offering was rejected.　 I can say that Cain did not follow God’s instructions, and Abel did.

4. It is courageous.

It caused Moses’ parents (Amram and Jochebed cf. Exodus 6:20) to risk their lives to hide Moses in order to preserve his life (Hebrews 11:23).　 Josephus makes clear that such was indeed brave saying, “the king commanded that every male child born to the Israelites be thrown into the river, and that if any parents should try to save their offspring, they and their families would be killed” (Antiquities II, 201-ff).

Moses was greatly educated (Acts 7:22).　 He was reared up the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.　 He was of the privileged class.　 Yet, he courageously gave it up to follow God.　 He “refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater than the treasures in Egypt for he looked to the reward” (Hebrews 11:25-26).　 He led the children of Israel out “not fearing the wrath of the King; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27).

Numerous others have had amazing courage.　 They have on God’s instructions taken cities and kingdoms (Hebrews 11:30, 33).　 They, for following God, have suffered torture, oppression and hardship, and death (Hebrews 11:33-39).

They made a choice to be on God’s side (Hebrews 11:31).

5. It endures.

God’s people do not always have it easy.　 Just think of Abel (Hebrews 11:4).　 Noah, no doubt, was mocked (Matthew 24:37-39; 2 Peter 3:3-7).　 Abraham and Sarah left their home to dwell for many years in tents [(Hebrews 11:9) Genesis 12:4 cf. 25:7].　 Moses “suffered affliction” (Hebrews 11:25), unimaginable pain was at times experienced (Hebrews 11:35-39).

The major point of this section of scripture is the need for endurance (Hebrews 10:36-38; 11:27; 12:1-4).　 Abraham and Sarah did not turn back to Ur (Hebrews 11:15).　 They had their eyes on heaven (Hebrews 11:16).　 Moses “forsook Egypt” and “endured as seeing Him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:28).　 There were those who were tortured and killed “not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection” (Hebrews 11:25).

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 6

Posted on February 5, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Paul did not define agape love as an abstract idea in philosophical terms.　 He was much more practical.　 He taught how agape love behaves.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

1.　 “Love suffers long” (NKJV).　 It is “patient” (NASB, ESV).  Christian love does not quickly or rashly give up on others.　 Our teaching is to be “with all long suffering” (2 Timothy 4:2).　 In helping and edifying the saints we’re to “be patient (longsuffering ASV) toward all” (1 Thessalonians 5:14).

Our homes need a heavy dose of patience.　 Life is not always easy.　 However, Biblical love will motivate us to endure.

2.　 Love “is kind” (NKJV).  This word carries the idea of being mild (Thayer).　 Kindness is connected with being “tenderhearted” and “forgiving” (Ephesians 4:23).

This word is also connected with being useful (Strong’s).　 It is in this sense that God is referred to as kind in Luke 6:35 cf. Matthews 5:43-45).

We need to learn to be both mild and useful to other people.　 Christianity is not to be lived in isolation from others.

3.　 Love “does not envy” (NKJV).

Envy is a terrible thing.　 It can make one miserable (Proverbs 14:30; 1 Kings 21:1-6).　 It can lead to malicious behavior (Mark 15:10; Acts 7:9; etc.).

Love is not made unhappy by the good fortunes and successes of others.　 In fact, Christians are to “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15).

4.　 Love “does not parade itself” (NKJV).　 It does not “brag” (NASB), “boast” (ESV).

Brother J.W. Shepherd commented, “(Love) does not ostentatiously parade its superiority to others (Gospel Advocate Commentary on First Corinthians, p. 197).　Every Christian should be careful “not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think” (Romans 12:3).

Love (not vainglory or self-promotion) should motivate us to do the right thing.　 Clearly, men, do at times, do the right thing out of the wrong motive (Matthew 6:1-2, 5, 16 cf. Matthew 5:16; 1 Corinthians 13:1-3).　 If not motivated by love, our good deeds amount to nothing before God (1 Corinthians 13:1-3; Matthew 6:1-2, 5, 16).

5.　 Love “is not puffed up” (NKJV).　 It “is not arrogant” (NASB, ESV).

The original word means, “to inflate, or blow up” in this case with ego or pride.　 The wording appears six times in 1 Corinthians (1 Corinthians 4:6; 4:18; 4:19; 5:2; 8:1; 13:4), and only once in the rest of the New Testament (Colossians 2:18).　 Evidently, these brethren at Corinth had a serious problem with arrogance.

May we have the attitude of Paul who said, “But by the grace of God I am what I am” (1 Corinthians 15:10).　 He also said, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14).

6.　 Love “does not behave rudely” (NKJV).　 It “does not act unbecomingly” (NASB).

There is a need to be considerate of others.　 Steve Williams commented, “Instead of being rude, love is tactful.　 Love does not do things with the intent of embarrassing another person or hurting them in any way” (The More Excellent Way, p. 25).

We should not be rude or unnecessarily provocative.　 Romans 12:18 reads, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”　 We should strive for peace, and be considerate of, and sensitive to the feelings of others.

7.　 Love “does not seek its own” (NKJV).　 It is not self-seeking” (NIV).　 It “is not selfish” (McCord).　 It “does not insist on its own way” (RSV).

We, as Christians, are to be concerned about others.　 We are no longer to live exclusively for self.　 1 Corinthians 10:24: “Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well being.”　 Philippians 2:3-4: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit… let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also the interests of others.”

8.　 Love “is not provoked” (NKJV).　 It “is not easily provoked” (KJV).　 It “is not irritable” (ESV, McCord).

One possessing Christian love is not “difficult to get along with”. Christian love is not overly sensitive, or touchy.　 Remember, “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city” (Proverbs 16:32).　 Let us be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19).　 May we avoid being the one who walks around “with a chip on the shoulder” ready for it to be knocked off by someone.

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 5

Posted on January 29, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Do you want to go the heaven?　 If so, you should understand that one must have faith, hope, and above all, love.　 These things are essentials to one’s spiritual success.

Types of Love

Much of the confusion which exists, concerning love, has to do with confusing different types of love.　 The Greeks had a variety of words to describe different types of love.　 However, in English, we use the same term “love” to describe different types of love,　 Our lack of variety can lead to confusion.

One word the Greeks had was “storge” (family love).　 This word refers to the type of love which should uniquely be in the home.　 We have a duty to care for our family members before other humans (e.g. 1 Timothy 5:3-16).　 This word appears in the negative form in Romans 1:31 and 2 Timothy 3:3, where it is rendered: “Without natural affection” (KJV), or “unloving” (NKJV, NASB), or “heartless” (ESV).　 The literal meaning is “without love” ,that is family love.

They also used the word “eros” (romantic, physical, or sexual love).　 God approves of such within the sanctity of marriage (Proverbs 5:15-21; Song of Solomon; Hebrews 13:4).　 ‘Eros’ is not found in the New Testament at all.　 This is not because the inspired writers rejected or despised physical love per se.　 Probably, it was because that by New Testament times this word had become associated with lust rather than love” (Nelson Smith, What is This Thing Called Love?, p. 12).

Another word used was “phileo” (Friendship love, warm relationship, liking another).　 This word appears in some form many times in the New Testament.　 It is used of: (1) Love of friends (John 11:3, 26; 20:2); (2) Love of family members (Matthew 10:37; Titus 2:4); (3) Love of Christian brethren (Titus 3:15).　 The term “brotherly love” appears a few times (Romans 12:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; Hebrews 13:1; 1 Peter 1:22; 2 Peter 1:7)..　 A special closeness should exist among us.　 After family obligations (1 Timothy 5:3-16), the next priority is toward brethren (Galatians 6:10).　 (4) The love　we’re to have for Jesus (1 Corinthians 16:22).　The Father　has such love for Jesus`　followers (John 16:27).　Jesus has such love for us (Revelation　3:19).　(5) Inanimate objects　or things (Matthew 23:6; 2 Thessalonians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:10).　 The word always has to do with emotional closeness, warm affection.

Finally, there is “agape” (godly love, Christian love).　 This word is not necessarily describing an emotional closeness, or a warm friendly relationship.　 It is, perhaps, best viewed as a consideration, care, concern, or regard for another which　 effects behavior and response to that one.　 The use of this word, comparatively speaking, was rare before the advent of Christianity.　 This type of love is owed to: (1) God (Matthew 22:37; John 14:15, 21, 23; 15:9-10; Romans 8:28; 1 John 2:5; 5:3).　 He certainly so loved us (John 3:16; 13:34; Romans 8:37; Galatians 2:20; 1 John 4:10); (2) Family members (Ephesians 5:25, 28; 33; Colossians 3:19);　 (3) Christian brethren (John 13:34; 15:12, 17; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter 1:22; 2:17; 1 John 2:9-10; 4:20);　 (4)　All of humanity (Matthew 5:43-48;　Romans 13:8-10; 1 Thessalonians 3:12).　 We are to be a people　who seek, where ever, and when ever　possible to show kindness and compassion　toward our fellow man (This includes our brother in Adam, and especially our brother in Christ).　 We should love (agape) everyone, even though, we might not like (phileo) everyone as a close friend.

Note: One may have more than one type of love for another. The Father has both agape and phileo love　for the Son [ John 3:35 (agape); John 5:20 (phileo)]. He has both agape and phileo love for believers　[ John 14:21 (agape); John 16:27 (phileo)]. Jesus had both agape and phileo love for John [ John 13:23 (agape); John 20:2 (phileo)].

The Importance of Agape Love

Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.　 Steve Williams has written, “To put it in modern terms, if you take the Lord’s Supper every Sunday but have no love, you gain nothing.　 If you have proper church organization but have no love you profit nothing.　 If you practice baptism by immersion for the remission of sins but have no love, you benefit nothing.　 Do not get me wrong.　 all of these… are very important.　 Essential to all of these and to everything else associated with being a Christian is love… Christian love is that something without which everything else is nothing” (The More Excellent Way, p. 13).　 I have seen with my eyes those who were very knowledgable in the scriptures who seem to be lacking love for their  fellow man, or their brethren, or even for God.　　 Their actions manifest such to me.　 Let us remember that without love, we’re nothing – spiritually speaking.

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 4

Posted on January 22, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

These are the ingredients to a fruitful, fulfilling, and pleasing life..　 The words are common themes which reoccur throughout the pages of the Bible.　 The term “Faith” (or belief) occurs 281 times in the New Testament.　 “Hope” occurs 60 times in the New Testament.　 “Love” (or charity) occurs 227 times in the New Testament

Notwithstanding the fact that these words appear with such great frequency in the Bible, they are commonly misused and misunderstood by people today.　 The world typically uses them in way which differs from how the Bible uses them.　 Clarification is in order.

Love

1.  Some think of “love” as mere lip service.　 They claim to love others; However, their actions are incongruent and not supportive of their words.

Christian love is not to be mere words.　 It is nice to say “I love you” (cf. 2 John 1; 3 John 1), but it is even better to demonstrate that love by actions.

Remember, talk is cheap.　 John wrote, “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us… My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:16-18).

Christian love should be genuine (Romans 12:9).　 The word translated “hypocrisy” (NASB, NKJV) or “dissimulation” (KJV) has to do with stage acting, or pretending to love.　 He wants our love to be genuine, sincere.

2.  Some only express “love” in a reflexive (or reactionary) way, or in view of mutual benefit.　 These are loving and kind to those: (1) who are loving and kind to them (Matthew 5:46), or; (2) who it is thought might benefit them (Luke 14:12-14).

Christian love is different.　 It is expressed toward even: (1) personal enemies (Matthew 5:43-48); and (2) those who cannot commercially, economically, politically, or socially increase one’s status on earth (Luke 14:12-14).

We would do well to think on the love of God.　 He demonstrated His love toward us while we were yet ungodly, sinful enemies (Romans 5:6-11).　 “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).　 He didn’t wait around for us to make the first move.　 He took the initiative to make reconciliation possible (1 John 4:10-11).

3.  Some think of “love” in cheap terms.　 That is, they think of love as costing nothing.　 They “love” only when it is convenient.　 They will not be inconvenienced.

 Christian love is different.　 It is patterned after the love of Jesus (John 13:34 cf. Matthew 20:25-28; John 15:12-13; Ephesians 5:2; 1 John 3:16; 1 John 4:19).　 It is a love which gives (John 3:16; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 5:25; 1 John 3:16-18).　 It is a love which serves (John 13:14-15, 34-35 cf. Matthew 20:25-28; Galatians 5:13).　 It is a love which sacrifices (John 15:12-13; 2 Corinthians 12:14-15; 1 John 3:16-18).

We should not be “fair-weathered friends” (Proverbs 27:10a; Job 6:15-ff; cf. Psalm 27:10 cf. Hebrews 13:5).　 So many are there in the good times but not the bad (Proverbs 14:20).　 We should be a people who are there rejoicing with those who rejoice, and weeping with those who weep (Romans 12:15).　 Christian love “suffers long” (1 Corinthians 13:4) and “endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7).

4.  Some pervert the term “love” using it to describe sinful behavior.　 This is common among the cults.　 The term is used to justify all kinds of bizarre behavior.

 Christian love toward humanity is showed by keeping the commandments of God (Romans 13:8-10; 1 John 5:2; 2 John 5-6).　 It is never contrary to His teaching.　 Christian love “does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth” (1 Corinthians 13:6).

Furthermore, Christian love toward God is also showed in the keeping of His commandments (John 14:15, 21, 23, 24; 15:21; 1 John 2:3-5; 5:2-3).　 Claiming to love God, and yet living contrary to His word will not work.　 The proof of our love for Him is in the pudding (submissive obedience to His will).

 5.　 Some claim to “love” too much to correct.　 It may be that this is the case toward a family member, a friend, or a brother or sister in Christ.

 Remember what we’re told of the Lord?　 We’re told, “For whom the Lord loves He chastens” (Proverbs 3:11-12; Hebrews 12:5-6).　 Jesus said, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten” (Revelation 3:19)

 Christian love cares enough to correct (Galatians 6:1-2 cf. 5:14).　 Jimmy Jividen has written, “Perhaps the strongest test of brotherly love is the willingness to confront a brother who is involved in sin or error” (Koinonia, p. 33).　 Again, “One of the most unloving acts that one could do – is nothing – when he knows that a brother is being overcome by sin” (ibid, p. 147).　 Once more, “The neglect of discipline in the church is in reality a neglect of fellowship.　 It is a shallow and misguided love which prefers to let a brother go to hell rather than correct his wrong.　 Brotherly love cares enough to correct” (ibid, p. 179).　 We are to be involved in one another’s lives (Galatians 6:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; Hebrews 3:12-13; 10:24-25; James 5:20).　 We are to be helping one another into heaven.　 A “love” which is not doing this falls short of the love we are to have!

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 3

Posted on January 15, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

They go together.　 Faith and hope appear together in nine New Testament verses (Romans 5:2; 1 Corinthians 13:13; 2 Corinthians 10:15; Galatians 5:5; Colossians 1:23; 1Thessalonians 1:3; 5:8; Hebrews 11;1; 1 Peter 1:21).　 Faith and love appear together in eighteen New Testament　verses (2 Corinthians 8:7; Galatians 2:20; 5:6; 5:22; Ephesians 1:15; 3:17 6:23; Colossians 1:4; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 5:8 1 Timothy 1:14; 6:10; 6:11; 2 Timothy 1:13; Titus 3:15; Philemon 1:15; James 2:5; Revelation 1:5). Hope and love (or charity) appear together in six New Testament verses (Luke 6:35; Romans 5:5; 1 Corinthians 13:13; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 5:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:16).　 The trio appears together in nine New Testament passages (Romans 5:1-5; 1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:5-6; Ephesians 4:2-5; Colossians 1:4-5, 8; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 5:8; Hebrews 6:10-12; 1 Peter 1:3-8).

The human body needs air, water, and food to live; Even so, the Christian needs faith, hope, and love.　 These are the essentials to spiritual life.　 Eliminate them and one dies spiritually.

The words are both commonly used and commonly misused and misunderstood.　 The world frequently uses these terms differently than how the Bible uses these same terms.　 Clarification is in order.

Hope

1.　 Some “hope” for that which they have no right to expect.　 They hope to go to heaven, but they haven’t complied with God’s conditions for pardon.

Hope is the anchor of the soul which keeps us steadfast and sure while the billows roll (Hebrews 6:18).　　 The basis of the Christian’s hope is God and His trustworthiness (Hebrews 6:17-18; Titus 1:1-2; 2 Timothy 1:12).　 The object of that hope is eternal life in heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:8; Titus 1:2).　 Yet, God has set forth what we’re to do in order to be in heaven in the end.　 Thus, if we truly believe in what he says, then we should understand that we have no legitimate basis for hope if we haven’t submitted to his terms.　 “If we are faithless, He remains faithful, He cannot deny himself” (2 Timothy 2:13).

Some think, “Yes, God did say what He did.　 However, when I stand before the Judge in the end, He’ll let me in anyway.”　 Even some preachers have “toyed with the idea that perhaps God could save sinners at judgment by extending a special sort of ‘clemency’ which would supersede His law” (Faith and Knowledge, p. 21).　 Mac Deaver has replied, “God is above law in the sense that (1) he can change law or cancel law when the doing of such does not cause God to in any way incriminate himself (he took the law of Moses out of the way – Colossians 2:14), but God is not above his own law in the sense that (2) He can fail to uphold the integrity of that law (Hebrews 6:18; Titus 1:2; cf. 2 Timothy 2:13).　 If God’s law says that a certain group of people will be lost, nothing can prevent that from occurring” (ibid, p. 22).　 Someone objects, “You’re limiting God!”　 Yes, I am limiting God to His word.　 He does not lie!　 He means what He says!　 Don’t you believe Him?　 I do!

2.　 Some use the term “hope” as a mere wish.　 They’d like something to occur, but they don’t really expect it to occur.

Biblically, hope is more than this.　 It is defined as “favorable and confident expectation” (Vine’s).　 John tells us that we can know that we have eternal life (1 John 5:13).　 If we believe the Bible, then we should have confidence in what it says.　 It should be at least possible for us to examine ourselves honestly and determine whether it is proper for us to have hope or not.　 We need to heed 2 Corinthians 13:5, which reads “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith.　 Test yourselves.”　 Galatians 6:4 instructs “‘let each one examine his own work…”　 This we should do, and do regularly.

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 2

Posted on January 4, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

These three words sum up what is necessary for a productive and rewarding Christian life. These words appear together in nine New Testament passages (Romans 5:1-5; 1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:5-6; Ephesians 4:2-5; Colossians 1:4-5, 8; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 5:8; Hebrews 6:10-12; 1 Peter 1:3-8).

Unfortunately, there exists much misunderstanding and confusion over these terms.　 The world frequently uses these terms differently than how the Bible uses these same terms.　 Clarification is in order.

Faith

1.　 Some incorrectly view faith as a “leap in the dark.”　 That is faith is believing in something without adequate evidence.

Thomas Warren has written, “If faith is the drawing of conclusions for which one does not have adequate evidence,　then one could, with as much ‘grounds’ be an atheist, or an agnostic, a Buddist, or a Muslim as　 he could be a Christian (When Is An Example Binding?, p. 14).

It is true that we currently walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).　 However, it does not say that we walk by faith not by evidence.　 God has never demanded that we have faith without any evidence.　 Instead, He wants us to gather the evidence and draw only such conclusions as are warranted by that evidence (Romans 1:20; Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1-ff).

Mac Deaver has remarked, “It is true that faith and knowledge are not synonymous.　 But it also true they aren’t antithetical”(Faith and Knowledge, p. 3).　 We can both believe something and know something at the same time [(1 Timothy 4:1-3; John 6:69 ASV).　 Note: Though the English terms ‘faith’ and ‘belief’ are at times used somewhat differently, they are the same in the Greek].

What about Thomas (John 20:24-29)?　 Thomas had been given sufficient evidence to believe in the resurrection: (1) He had witnessed Jesus’ miracles, including raising of the dead; (2) He had heard Jesus prophesy of his resurrection;　 (3) He had heard the testimony of good men, and no doubt from good women as well.　 Thomas’ problem was more of a faith problem, than an evidence problem.

2.　 Some incorrectly view faith as a subjective feeling.　 Personal feelings trump what the Bible says to such people.

It is our duty to base our faith on the word of God (Romans 10:17).　 We should strive to bring our feelings in line with the scriptures, and not the other way around.

Subjective thoughts can be wrong, and often are (see 2 Kings 5:9-11; Luke 2:43-44; Acts 26:9).　 It is spiritually unwise to base one’s faith on subjective feelings (Proverbs 16:2, 25).　 Believing something very strongly inwardly doesn’t make it objectively true.

3. Another incorrect view is to think that one is saved by mental faith alone.　 According to this view so long as one mentally believes all will be okay, regardless of actions.

It is true that we are saved by faith, but the question is “When does faith save?”　 According to Hebrews 11:6, those rewarded not only believe, but they also diligently seek him.　 Not one example from the “Faith Hall of Fame” (Hebrews 11) is an example of faith only.　 Faith　must be obedient (Hebrews 5:9).　 A living active faith is what is needed.

Think about John 12:42-43.　 Were these cowards right with God?　 Read Matthew 10:32-33; Romans 10:10.

Sometimes the Bible says that we’re saved by hearing (1 Timothy 4:16).　 Sometimes it says that we’re saved by belief (Acts 16:31).　 Sometimes it says that we’re saved by repentance (Acts 11:18).　 Sometimes it says that we’re saved by baptism (1 Peter 3:21).　 Are these contradictions?　 No!　 They are all figures of speech (synecdoche) in which the part is put for the whole.　 For example: (1) If one hears, as he should, then he’ll respond doing all that is instructed for salvation.　 Thus, “hearing” sometimes refers to all which follows from it.　 (2) If one believes, as he should, then he’ll have no problem responding to what is taught.　 Thus, “belief” is sometimes put for an active belief which responds and obeys.　 (3) If one truly repents, then he’ll have no problem doing all that he’s to do.　 His mind is changed.　 Thus, “repentance” sometimes stands for the whole.　 (4) If one is properly baptized, then he has heard, believed, and repented.　 Thus, “baptism” is sometimes used for the whole, (Acts 16:34).

Note: The words “faith only” appear just once in the New Testament.　 Such is not how we’re justified (James 2:24).

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Faith, Hope, Love – Part 1

Posted on December 26, 2011 by Bryan Hodge

Faith, hope and love:  This trio appears nine times in the New Testament (Romans 5:1-5; 1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:5-6; Ephesians 4:2-5; Col. 1:4-5, 8; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 5:8; Hebrews 6:10-12; 1 Peter 1:3-8).  One might think of these as the three legs which support healthy Christian living.  Removing one of these legs will lead to the downfall of one’s spiritual health.  While upon this earth, a healthy Christian will rest upon all three.

Faith

It is defined as: “Conviction of the truth of anything” (Thayer).  The Bible speaks of “the shield of faith” (Ephesians 6:16) and “the breastplate of faith…” (1 Thessalonians 5:8).  It is essential protective armor.  It protects us from “the fiery darts of the wicked one”  (Ephesians 6:16).  Strong faith allows us to trust what God says about things we’ve never seen (Hebrews 11:1, 3, 7, 8, 13, 17-19, 20 – 22 cf. 2 Corinthians 5:7).  Strong faith keeps us going despite difficulties and opposition in this life (Hebrews 11:4; 9 – 10, 23, 24 – 25, 32 – 40).  Strong faith prompts us to obey God when it makes no earthly sense (Hebrews 11:30).  If we’re going to survive the spiritual challenges of this life, we must have a strong trust in God and in his word.

 What can we do to strengthen our faith?  (1) We need to spend a great deal of time in study of God’s word: “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17 cf. Luke 8:11-12; John 17:20; 20:30-31; Acts 17:11-12; 18:8; Ephesians 1:13-14).  This includes studying things like the fulfillment of prophecy, scientific foreknowledge and the like..  (2)  We need to spend time studying the evidences for the existence of God, the inspiration of the Bible, the deity of Christ; the resurrection of Jesus, and other such things.  (3)  We need to put the teachings of the Bible into practice.  We might just find that it works.

Hope

It is defined as: “Favorable and confident expectation” (Vine’s).  It has to do with the future, or the unseen (Romans 8:24 – 25).  There is one ultimate hope for a Christian (Ephesians 4:4), and this is eternal life in heaven (Titus 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:8).  Wearing “as a helmet the hope of salvation” (1 Thessalonians 5:8) will help us keep our heads in the field of spiritual battle.

 How do we keep the flame of hope burning?  (1) We need to remind ourselves of what is, and isn’t eternal (2 Corinthians 4:16-5:8).  (2) We need to remind ourselves that whatever we must endure in this life is light in comparison with the glory which is to come to the faithful (Romans 8:18 cf 1 John 3:2; Philippians 3:21; 2 Peter 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:51-ff).   (3) We need to remind ourselves of the reunion to come, and the fact that we’ll “ever be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).  The desire to be reunited with other faithful is a strong motivational factor in the lives of Christians.  (4) Remember that placing trust in God is not like placing trust in man.  Good men may make promises but find themselves unable to keep them due to circumstances beyond their control.  A man may promise to meet you but forget, or have a flat tire, or have a wrist watch that stopped or was slow, or got stuck in traffic.  However, there is no circumstances which will interfere with God keeping his promise.  He is God.  (5) The more our faith grows the more our hope will grow.  It will no longer be a mere wish, but a “confident expectation”.

Love

How does one define this word?  One writer has written, “What is Christian love?  Paul does not give a strict definition of it in his great love chapter, but he describes how love acts” (Steve Williams, The More Excellent Way, p. 15).  Perhaps love is best viewed as: (1) a care and concern for another which manifests itself in actions of both word and deed; (2) a devotion to another which manifests itself in actions of both word and deed.

Love is essential to Christianity.  If we have not love, we are nothing – spiritually speaking (1 Corinthians 13:1-ff).  The greatest of all commandments is that we love God with all our beings (Matthew 22:36-38; Mark 12:28-30).  The next greatest is that we love our fellow man as ourselves (Matthews 22:39; Mark 12:31 cf. Galatians 5:14)  These two are essential to salvation (Luke 10:25-28; cf. 1 John 4:7-12).  Love is the greatest of commandments because, if one loves God as he should, then he’ll keep the commandments of God (John 14:15, 21, 23; 15:21; 1 John 2:4; 5:3); Moreover, love for one’s fellow man will likewise prompt obedience (Romans 13:8-10; 1 John 5:2; 2 John 5-6).  Love motivates (2 Corinthians 5:14).  Love is like a breastplate (1 Thessalonians 5:8) which keeps us alive in spiritual struggles.

What can be done to increase our love?  We need to consider the love of God and Jesus (John 3:16-17; 13:1-15, 34-35; 15:13; Romans 5:6-8; 2 Corinthians 5:14; 8:9; 1 John 3;16-18; 1 John 4:10-11; 4:19).  “When my love to Christ grows weak… then in thought I go to thee, Garden of Gethsemane!  …When my love for man grows weak… Hill of Calvary!  I go to thy scenes of fear and woe”  (Song: When My Love to Christ Grows Weak by J.R. Wrenford).

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