BibleFood for Hungry Christians

"Torn – Trusting God When Life Leaves You in Pieces" (BOOK REVIEW)

2011-11-29T17:49:00.001-05:00

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Today's Review

I was given this book to read and review. Periodically I will do a book review for Multnomah Books.

Here's my review:

I admittedly went into reading this book cautiously because I wasn't familiar with the author and wasn't thrilled with some people who had endorsed this book. However, the subject matter got my attention, "Torn – Trusting God When Life Leaves You in Pieces." This is something I could relate to. As I read this book, you see that the subject matter is primarily the sovereignty of God in suffering. While the book starts with the "Why God?" question, it does a good job of getting us off the "why" question and onto "who" - who will you trust during trials and suffering? Basically, he really never answered the "why question," but the way in which he didn't answer it is, in my opinion, the right way. I agree with him not getting caught up in the "why, why, why?" question and moving on to who are you going to trust through this trial? I have seen many try to answer the "why question" and were unable to do so to my satisfaction or anyone else's. It's the WRONG question to be asking! The author then goes on to, "who are you going to trust" and "how are you going to trust him?"

This book is pretty basic on the subject of suffering, but it does a good job overall. I think this book would benefit many new Christians who think that now that they are following Jesus, they will never have another problem again – Wrong! Wrong! Wrong! I am so appreciative of this subject being properly dealt with where anyone reading it can understand it.

While this book uses a lot of scriptures (well over 100), most of them are not directly shown in the text or in a footnote. So, I found myself turning to the notes in the back of the book constantly. I much more prefer the text being right there in the chapter or at least footnoted on the bottom of the page. Also, some of the passages need a little closer examination from the context of what was written. He also seems to try to sound "cool" by referencing secular material, movies, etc. Being cool in my eyes or more importantly the Lord's this is not necessary, but it may go along with the fact that the author is pastor of a mega-church in Las Vegas - just my observation.

My overall rating for this book is so-so. For the new believer or someone taught (erroneously) that we are not to suffer as Christians, I would give this 4-5 stars. For anyone who has been in the Bible (rightly dividing the word of God) for any length of time, this book has little to offer.

I have no doubt this book will minister to some, and to that end I pray the Lord uses it.

I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

NOTE: I have not stopped writing devotions on Galatians or other subjects. It just takes time, so as we move in and then pass the holidays I hope to send out more devotions and spiritual nuggets of truth from the Bible and men of God.

In His Service,
Jim

Devotion: Preparation is Vital

2011-11-10T14:59:00.001-05:00

Today's devotional nugget:

I read this today and just felt it was too good to keep to myself so I'm sharing it with you all :-) - Jim

David kills the lion

"Preparation is Vital" by A.W. Tozer

Moreover David said, "The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." --1 Samuel 17:37

David kills the bear

The whole Bible and all past history unite to teach that battles are always won before the armies take the field. The critical moment for any army is not the day it engages the foe in actual combat; it is the day before or the month before or the year before....

Preparation is vital. The rule is, prepare or fail. Luck and bluster will do for a while, but the law will catch up with us sooner or later, usually sooner....

It did not take Moses long to lead the children of Israel out through the Red Sea to deliverance and freedom; but his fittedness to lead them out was the result of years of hard discipline. It took David only a few minutes to dispose of Goliath; but he had beaten the giant long before in the person of the lion and the bear....

David kills Goliath

Preparation is vital. Let this be noted by everyone. We can seek God today and get prepared to meet temptation tomorrow; but if we meet the enemy without first having met God, the outcome is not conjectural; the issue is already decided. We can only lose.

"Love and Concern for Those Departing the Way of Grace"

2011-10-16T23:22:00.004-05:00

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"Love and Concern
for Those Departing the Way of Grace"

Gal. 4:12-16 Lesson 22, 10-16-11

12 Brethren, I urge you to become like me, for I became like you. You have not injured me at all.

13 You know that because of physical infirmity I preached the gospel to you at the first.

14 And my trial which was in my flesh you did not despise or reject, but you received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

15 What then was the blessing you enjoyed? For I bear you witness that, if possible, you would have plucked out your own eyes and given them to me.

16 Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?

12 Brethren, I urge you to become like me, for I became like you. You have not injured me at all.

Paul is pleading with the Galatians to join him in rejecting the law as a means of being justified with God. Paul was a Jew by natural birth, but he had forsaken the law as a means of being reconciled to God. Therefore, he was living like a Gentile in that sense. He's saying, "be like me (free from the law) because that's the way you really are." See 1 Corinthians 9:21

The Galatians' tendencies toward legalism hadn't affected Paul. He was going to continue in grace.

Paul was in essence saying, "Why are you dropping out of the university of grace, and enrolling again in the kindergarten of the Law?"

13 You know that because of physical infirmity I preached the gospel to you at the first [visit].

What this "physical infirmity" was is not made clear in the Bible (though many think they know what it was), so I chose to leave it as is. I don't know what it was, but it was a "physical infirmity" of some sort. That is enough information for me to know that when the Galatians first met Paul his outward appearance was not good, but they didn't let that factor in.

Question: Do we allow someone's appearance affect how open we are to hear them?

Paul also said he was not eloquent in speech (see 1 Cor. 2:1). Historians usually say he was short and balding. Not quite your picture of most modern day tele-evangelists. We as a people can be really shallow when appearance factors into our receiving from someone. We do this with: Physical attractiveness, height, weight, speaking voice, charisma, etc. We may miss out on hearing from a man of God because of such thinking.

14 And my trial which was in my flesh you did not despise or reject, but you received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

They received Paul as an angel/messenger of God, as if Paul's words were straight from Christ Jesus (which in a real sense they were as Paul was the Lord's spokesman). What matters most is the message, not the messenger.

As we see in verse 14, instead of turning from him in disgust, as might have been expected, the Galatians had given most earnest heed to Paul's testimony for JESUS and had accepted the SAVIOUR with an enthusiasm that knew no bounds. They received Paul, prostrated with pain and weakness as he was, as an angel of GOD, as the personal representative of the Son of GOD Himself. How ingloriously, then, did their present apostasy contradict their early zeal for CHRIST!

15 What then was the blessing you enjoyed? (or What happened to all your joy?) For I bear you witness that, if possible, you would have plucked out your own eyes and given them to me.

Legalism causes people to lose their joy. This is what happened to the Galatians. The NIV translates this phrase as, "What happened to all your joy?"

Their former state of JOY was caused by the fact that they responded to the doctrines of the grace of God in Christ.

Next, this verse talks about Paul's eyes. Whatever happened to Paul likely affected his eyes, and at one time they would have done anything for him, even given him their own eyes (if that were possible). This was the depth of their affection toward the one who had brought them the liberating message of salvation in Jesus Christ alone, but now they had turned away from him.

Note: Another possibility for this text is that Paul does not literally mean by these statements that there was something wrong with his eyes. Just as today when someone says, "I'd give my right arm for them," that doesn't necessarily mean there is anything wrong with the other person's right arm. This is just a way of expressing an individual's commitment to another person, even to the point of sacrificing a valuable part of his own body for the benefit of the one he loves. Likewise, Paul may just be saying that these Galatians were at one time willing to do anything for Paul; what had changed?

16 Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?

Those (Galatian believers) who had once been so very close and thankful for the message of liberty (grace) are now looking at him as an enemy for telling them the truth (in love).

They had become hostile to Paul.

"Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?" How typical is this reaction to wholesome admonition of the attitude of men and women today! Regardless of how much he may need it, the average person resents correction. The servant of CHRIST dare not change his course with every shift in the wind of popular favor.

The truth isn't always welcomed, but it truly is love to tell a person the truth regardless of whether he welcomes it or not.

Question: Will you stand for truth even when those closest to you are going in the path of error?

A must listen to song here!

Until next time, walk in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ!

Galatians 4:8-11 “Back to Slaves – How Can it Be!!??”

2011-09-27T10:59:00.002-05:00

Good place to reflect – I have taught 20 lessons on Galatians(then took a month off).

This message is going to be dealing with "legalism" ashave many others, as this was the Galatian believer's problem.

I thought it would be good to start off with a good cleardefinition of what legalism is, and then ask ourselves 2 questions as we startback in our Galatians study (verse by verse).

Legalism defined: Legalism...is essentially anyattempt to improve on what God has done for us by adding things that we do forHim... It is any attempt to earn approval from God with our imperfectactions, rather than accepting and being pleased with the approval that Hefreely offers us because Jesus has earned it for us with his perfect sacrifice.Legalism is always doomed to failure because we are imperfect and the God thatwe seek to impress is perfect. It robs us of peace and joy. (Definition by MikeTaylor)

I think thefollowing statement by Jerry Bridges on legalism is worth our attention.

"Legalisminsists on conformity to manmade religious rules and requirements,which are often unspoken, but are nevertheless very real… There are far toomany instances within Christendom where our traditions and rules are, inpractice, more important than God’s commands."

The question we must ask ourselves.

1. How many of us still have not come out of legalism?

2. How many of us are slipping back into legalism?

Legalism is always a step backward in your walk in Christ.

On the positive, praise be to God for those who are free andstaying free, AMEN!

Now, let's look at today's passage:

⁸ But then, indeed,when you did not know God, you served those which by nature are not gods. ⁹But now after you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn again to the weakand beggarly elements, to which you desire again to be in bondage? ¹⁰You observe days and months and seasons and years. ¹¹ I am afraidfor you, lest I have labored for you in vain. Galatians 4:8-11

⁸But then, indeed, when you did not know God, you served those which by natureare not gods.

When they were ignorant sinners (before salvation), they hadserved their false pagan gods (really demons). Asit states in 1 Cor. 10:20, “…what pagans sacrifice they offer to demonsand not to God.”

⁹But now after you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn [turnis in present tense, meaning in the act of turning]again to the weak and beggarly elements, to which you desireagain to be in bondage?

Herewe are now looking at the Galatian believers (saved).

KnowingGod is not your great accomplishment, but the Lord’s doing. Ourknowing God is conditioned upon His prior knowledge of us. Paul makes sort of acorrection to his first few words, and to make sure there is nomisunderstanding, he makes it clear “rather are known by God.” God has taken the initiative in graceto incorporate them into His family. We should be excited, not just that wehave come to know God, but that God knows us!!! (also see 1 John 4:10)

Then,they go backwards to the weak and beggarly elements and become slavesagain!!!

Theywere giving up the power of the Gospel for the weakness of law.

Howwere they doing this?

Byputting themselves under the law. Then, it goes into specifics in verse 10:

¹⁰You observe days and months and seasons and years. See Rom. 14:5-8

"Oneof the tragedies of legalism is that it gives the appearance of spiritualmaturity when, in reality, it leads the believer back into a 'second childhood'of Christian experience." (Wiersbe)

Weare not to legislate religious observances for each other. This is the way of legalism!

Nodoubt the Judaizers were trying to convince the Galatians that their salvation wasnot complete unless they honored Jewish holy days. WRONG! WRONG! WRONG! If you think you are saving your soul orgrowing in God’s grace by religious observances, then you are guilty oflegalism!

Legalismcaters to the flesh, leads to pride (look at what I’M DOING) and really makesan outward observance replace the work that the Lord wants done in our hearts.

¹¹I am afraid for you, lest I have labored [literally"to labor to the point of exhaustion"] for you in vain.

Whatwe proclaim from our heart of the Lord, even if people don’t listen, is neverwasted in His eyes. But how often are we afraid for the person fallingbackwards? In the human sense it wouldbe in vain (wasted time).

Were these converts under Paul's ministryin Christ going to go from having faith in Christ for salvation to puttingthemselves under the law and legalism in their walk with God? To do so would bea step backwards.

ClosingIllustration – The religious John Wesley, becomes the Christian John Wesley!

John Wesley wasan honor graduate of Oxford University, an ordainedclergyman in the Church of England and orthodox in theology. He was active inpractical good works, regularly visiting the inmates of prisons and workhousesin London andhelping distribute food and clothing to slum children and orphans. He studiedthe Bible diligently and attended numerous Sunday services, as well as variousother services during the week. He generously gave offerings to the church andalms to the poor. He prayed and fasted and lived an exemplary moral life. Heeven spent several years as a missionary to American Indians in what was thenthe British colony of

Georgia

. Yet, upon returning to England, he confessed in his journal, “I whowent to Americato convert others was never myself converted to God.” Later reflecting on hispreconversion condition, he said, “l had even then the faith of a servant,though not that of a son.” Wesley tirelessly did everything he could to live alife acceptable to God, yet he knew something vital was missing. It was notuntil he went “very unwillingly to a society in Aldersgate Street” one evening that hediscovered and claimed true Christian life. “I felt my heart strangely warmed,”he wrote. “I felt I did trust in Christ,Christ alone, forsalvation; and an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, evenmine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.” He was no longer just a servant. Now, he was a son!

Closingthought:

Whatever leads one away from sole reliance onChrist,

whether based on good intentions (ornot), is of disastrous results.

Enjoy this 10 minute video on

Legalismand what Christianity is really about!

As we close, I encourage you to grow inthe Grace and Libertyonly found through Jesus Christ!

To receive these devotional teaching as they come out please join our site.

Please also check out this new 33 minute movie 180
(dealing with Holocaust and Abortion) a must for all!
Warning: Due to some graphic footage of the Holocaust
some footage may not be appropriate for children - Thanks!

“ONCE SLAVES, BUT NOW SONS” Freedom Series - Galatians 4:1-7

2011-08-14T19:35:00.017-05:00

We made it! We are in chapter 4 (part 20) and I plan to do a study every two weeks during the summer, then in the fall we will go back to a weekly study and do so until we finish Galatians. - Jim

1 Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, 2 but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father. 3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements (basic principles- comparable to learning your ABC’s) of the world. 4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” 7 Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

Verses 1-3 cover man’s condition under the law (SLAVES)

1 Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child (Gk. Nepios – child, infant or immature one), does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all.

It is important to learn our ABC’s (by the Law), but the man who sits in the library and cites the ABC’s instead of reading the great literature that surrounds him, is showing how immature and ignorant he is – this is NOT a God thing!

2 but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father.

Even though promised one day to be sons, as long as we were under the LAW BEFORE CHRIST came we were under guardians, tutors of the law and were in BONDAGE, but when Christ came we are free from bondage of the law and now are heirs (sons – by Adoption)

3 Even so we (or “so also in our case”), when we were children, were in bondage under the elements (basic principles- comparable to learning your ABC’s) of the world.

This was like going from childhood (under the Law) to adulthood (growing in Christ) THEN BACK to childhood /immaturity – legalistic bondage.

It is never God’s will that we go backward!

Verses 4-7 cover man’s condition in Christ (SONS - which is far better)

4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son (shows preexistence of Christ), born of a woman (Jesus in his humanity), born under the law (a Jew),

(vs 4) "fullness of time came" – This refers to that time when the world was providentially ready for the coming of our Savior Jesus Christ (approx. 2000 years ago). The entrance of Jesus into the physical realm was not a random thing occurring at a haphazard time.

5 to redeem (to set free by paying a price) those who were under the law that we might receive the adoption as sons (Gk. Huios).

Note: The Greek word for a child or infant (Gk. Nepios v. 1) is different than son or adult son (Gk. Huios).

Jesus redeemed us (PAID THE PRICE TO SET US FREE), not to makes us slaves but SONS!

6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, Abba, Father!”

ABBA (in an Aramaic word) was equivalent to our calling our father “Daddy” or “PAPA” – this is when the relationship is special.

(Example: When my grandchildren (regardless of age) call me PAPA, those are the most beautiful words they can say).

So, as SONS, God looks for the day when we can call him Dad, Daddy, Papa. For one to address their father with the word “ABBA” is not so much associated with infancy (baby talk) as it is with INTIMACY.

It was used by Jesus – Mark 14:36 and as a proof of God’s Spirit in our life (also see Romans 8:14-16). These words “Abba” (daddy, papa) are the instinctive cries of a heart that has been touched by the Holy Spirit. It is the unique cry of a heart of a son of God (believers).

7 Therefore you are no longer a slave (under the Law) but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (See Romans 8:17)

You are given the right to your inheritance once you go from child to adult.

When you think of it, what a tragedy to be bound by the law AND sin (again AFTER being saved). To be set free in Christ (Salvation/Grace), and thus, to move onto to maturity, only to have the Judaizers lead you back to under Law/legalism instead of growing in the GRACE and in the KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST.

Legalism is NEVER a step toward MATURITY but backwards.

In Closing:
Praise be to God; no longer is your relationship to God determined by your race, rank, or role. No longer are you shut up in the prison house of sin. No longer are you under the curse of the law. We are sons of God by faith in Jesus Christ.

AMEN!

Desiring God (10 Part DVD Series)

2011-08-10T20:31:00.011-05:00

Periodically (once ever month or so) I will be reviewing a book for WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group. This is my third review I hope you find it helpful.

We will be back to Galatians in a few days (chapter 4).

I was very excited about the opportunity of reviewing the 10-part video series by John Piper on “Desiring God.” In one statement, the goal of the video (as with the book by the same title) is for you to come to understand the statement: "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him," Which Piper calls “Christian Hedonism.” To that end, the video succeeded.

Being that I have never read the book from cover to cover (350+ pages), I thought this would be a great way of getting the book in video form, but that turned out to not exactly be the case. The video series is basically ten 30-minute (or less) sessions on the same subject as his book but in much less detail. Up to now, I have read many articles, skimmed the book, and listened to audio messages on the subject by Piper, but the video series has motivated me to read the book since I now know the book is much more thorough teaching on the subject. Note: I am reading the book now, it is very good.

It’s a good video series in a lecture style teaching. He walks you through the basics on the statement:"God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him," which Piper calls “Christian Hedonism.” I would recommend it for people you can’t get to read the book (yet), and for those who are new to the whole idea of “Christian Hedonism.” I believe the video will be quite liberating to those people and aid in a closer relationship with the Lord.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this DVD from Multnomah in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

You Are All One In Christ Jesus - Gal. 3:26-29

2011-07-10T23:20:00.029-05:00

REVIEW:
We can't preach the message of grace until we've preached the standards of God because grace means nothing until people understand that they've broken the law, and have NO hope of keeping it (100 % guilty before God).

The day that you fell on your knees before Jesus Christ and received Him as Savior, the law had done its work. You saw your sin, you came to Christ.

In a nutshell, these verses plainly explain:
1. The purpose of the Law (convict us).
2. The ONLY way to Christ (faith).

Today’s lesson:
Galatians 3:26-29
26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.
27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor
female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

26 For you are all sons (Gk. Huios – Someone of full age) of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

Sadly, some translate this “children” instead of “sons.” The better translation is definitely “sons.” We are now sons (maturing, full-aged sons) and no longer needing a “tutor” (the law), but able to come to Jesus. We have gone from child/infant to a full-aged son.

Note: The Greek word for a child or infant (Gk. Nepios) is different than son (Gk. Huios). Who is he addressing here? Then he qualifies who it is (those sons of God)“…through faith in Christ Jesus.” This verse, these words are only meant for the believer (one who puts faith in Christ). This verse is NOT to be taken out of its context (as some have done) and teach Universal Sonship. Those ONLY are “…sons of God by faith in Christ Jesus.”

ALL that are sons, are sons THROUGH FAITH (not works, laws, etc.) in Christ Jesus. Shortly, in v. 28, we will see that there are no distinctions.

27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

There are many ways baptism might and has been interpreted. But to stay in the flow of what the Holy Spirit is saying through Paul, I believe this is talking about our receiving salvation at the new birth (baptized into the body of Christ (i.e, placed). Greek Scholar Kenneth Wuest states: “The reference cannot be to water baptism, for that never put a believing sinner in Christ.” Also, it says in I Cor. 11:12 - For by one Spirit (Holy Spirit) we (believers) were all baptized into one body--whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free--and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.

We are baptized (immersed) into the Body of Christ. This happens at salvation (before we have even had a chance to be water baptized (which we are commanded to do AFTER salvation). We don’t come out covered in water, but covered and washed by the blood of the Lamb (Jesus Christ).

We have “PUT ON” Christ. We have changed from spiritually filthy garments (Isa. 64:6) and put on new garments (we’re clean). We HAVE “put on Christ” and are new creations (II Cor. 5:17, 21 also see Eph. 4:24 & Eph. 6:14).

28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Part of a good prayer for a Religious Jew went like this:
“I thank thee, God, that I am a Jew, not a Gentile, a man, not a woman; and a freeman, and not a slave.”

All three of those things are addressed in this passage.
1. RACIAL PREJUDICE
2. SOCIAL STANDING
3. SEXUAL DISTINCTION

Verse 28 spells out the implications of being in Christ.

As far as our standing before God is concerned, all human distinctions are done away with in Christ. This frees the Christian from seeking a superior spiritual status by striving to change his social, economic, ethnic, or sexual status. In Christ, human distinctions of man’s worth are abolished, thus, giving all Christians equality before God.

“…FOR YOU ARE ALL ONE IN CHRIST JESUS.” Amen!!!

NOTE:
While looking down upon a woman is wrong, Woman’s lib is wrong, too. Most women at some point in their life were treated disrespectfully by a man (anywhere from infancy to death). Yes, there are a lot of men who are jerks, BUT that does not eradicate God’s roles for a man or a woman. Male and female, husband and wife and their distinct roles are not bad. God made them (male and female, husband and wife) so BEFORE sin entered the world. So don’t say you have been cursed with being a certain sex, or in being married. Those distinctions are of God and good. Sin is the thing that has messed up our roles as male/female and husband/wife.

This is also true in your ethnic background accept it – don’t fight it. This is also true in social realm, too; you need to accept where you are and that you may never be up there with the “Jones” socially. Who cares, accept where you are and let God bless you there.

29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

IF one belongs to Christ I (that comes first) THEN one is Abraham’s seed.

If we’re all ONE IN CHRIST, then we, regardless of race, social standing, or sexuality are Abraham’s Seed. What did v. 16 say, but that Christ is Abraham’s seed, now that we are IN CHRIST, we too are by Christ, Abraham’s seed, and thus “…heirs according to the promise.” PTL!

As we are in Christ, the promise is ours. We become heirs of all the promises of God when we are in Christ. This, friends, is according to faith, not law or works.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father lead us into all truth, thy Word is truth. If in any area of our lives and beliefs (and traditions) we have been lead astray from your Holy Word (Bible), we ask that you would open our hearts and eyes to see the glorious Good News of Jesus Christ and to obey those wonderful truths. We pray this in Jesus’ Name, Amen!

That brings this week’s teaching to a close. During the summer we will do a lesson every other week.

I look forward to taking you further on this Journey of Faith. I hope you have allowed the law to serve its purpose of showing you your guilt, and driving you to faith in Jesus Christ.

"The Law - A Death Sentence Ended Through Christ" Galatians 3:22-25

2011-06-27T17:36:00.022-05:00

22 But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. 23 But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. 24 Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 25 But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. Galatians 3:22-25

In ending last week’s study in verse 21, the question was asked? Is the law then against the promises of God? Paul's answer was, "CERTAINLY NOT" or "GOD FORBID." While some may have thought or tried to accuse him of being AGAINST the law, Paul said: For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law. In other words, there is absolutely no way to be saved by a "law."

The law and the promises are not in conflict because each has a distinct function; they do NOT have the same purpose. The law shows us WE ARE GUILTY before a just and holy God. Whereas, the promise(s) by faith in Jesus Christ shows us SALVATION IS OF THE LORD.

Note: To put it another way, our main problem is we have wrongly been taught to think the purpose of the law (especially the 10 Commandments) were given for us to keep them, and thus, go to heaven. NO! They were to show us we CAN'T keep the law. By showing us that we are doomed to fail in keeping all the law(s) (See James 2:10), we see that we desperately need to turn to God to save us, as it is not in ourselves to save ourselves.
That brings us to verses 22-25.

Let's take a look at today's passage:

22 But the Scripture [in this case the law] has confined (Gk. Sunkleio) all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.

Confined in the Greek is an interesting word, Sunkleio – to shut up, to confine [as in a prison].

23 But before faith came (Jesus our Saviour), we were kept under guard (Gk. Phroureo) by the law, kept for the faith (Jesus our Saviour) which would afterward be revealed.

The Greek word “kept” is from “phroureo,” which means “to guard” or "to keep inward under lock and key." Simply put: We were in the custody of the law.

So the law captured us; there was no escape. There was no way to get out from under the law, there was no way to bust out. We were sentenced, we were locked up.

Every man in the world is a prisoner of God's law, waiting on spiritual death row for execution as a law-breaker until the pardon is offered by faith in Jesus Christ.

The law shut them up (as in a prison) with only ONE way to escape, namely, faith in Christ.

24 Therefore the law was our tutor (Gk. – paidagogos) to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

Paidagogos was a slave whose duty was to discipline boys. The paidagogos was not the teacher (that's didaskalos in the Greek and would have been the word used if this was talking about a teacher), that's a totally different word), he was the guardian of young boys. He was not the boys' teacher, he was their disciplinarian. It's a very important point. Thus, the word refers to a guardian of a child rather than to a teacher or schoolmaster.

This is one of the purposes of the law, to create in lost sinners a sense of guilt and need. The law has performed its purpose: the Savior has come and the "guardian" is no longer needed.

25 But after faith has come (Jesus our Saviour) , we are no longer under a tutor (Gk. – paidagogos).

If there is a point you must grasp out of these lessons it is this. We can't preach the message of grace until we've preached the standards of God because grace means nothing until people understand that they've broken the law, and have NO hope of keeping it (100 % guilty before God).

The day that you fell on your knees before Jesus Christ and received Him as Savior, the law had done its work. You saw your sin, you came to Christ.

In a nutshell, these verses plainly explain:
1. The purpose of the Law (convict us).
2. The ONLY way to Christ (faith).

I would like to close with this example as shared in “Our Daily Bread” written by D. C. Egner

“THE MIRROR, FLASHLIGHT AND PLUMBLINE”
Therefore, the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ (Galatians 3:24). The law has never saved anyone, and it never will. God did not give it to redeem us from sin, but to show us our need of salvation. That's why the apostle Paul called it "our tutor."In an unforgettable sermon, evangelist Fred Brown used three images to describe the purpose of the law. First, he likened it to the small mirror dentists use. With the mirror they can detect cavities, but they can't drill with it or use it to pull teeth. The mirror reveals the decayed area or other abnormality, but it can't fix the problem.Brown then drew another analogy. He said that the law is also like a flashlight. If the lights go out at night, you use it to guide you down the darkened basement stairs to the electrical box. When you point it toward the fuses, it helps you see the one that is burned out. But after you've removed the bad fuse, you don't insert the flashlight in its place. You put in a new fuse to restore the electricity.In his third image, Brown likened the law to a plumbline. Builders check their work by using a weighted string. If this plumbline reveals that the work is not true to the vertical, the plumbline cannot correct it. The builder must get out a hammer and saw.Like the mirror, flashlight, and plumbline, the law points out the problem—sin, but it doesn't provide a solution. The only way to salvation is through Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law. Only He can save.

That brings this week’s teaching to a close. During the summer we will do a lesson every other week.

I look forward to taking you further on this Journey of Faith. I pray that you are no longer a prisoner to the law.

I hope you have allowed the law to serve its purpose of showing you your guilt, and driving you to faith in Jesus Christ.

"Purpose of the Law" Freedom Series Galatians 3:19-21

2011-06-13T18:34:00.019-05:00

19 What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator. 20 Now a mediator does not mediate for one only, but God is one. 21 Is the law then against the promises of God? Certainly not! For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law.

We have learned in the past lesson that our spiritual inheritance is not based on our performance. Our spiritual inheritance is based on God’s promise.

This week’s question:
What purpose does the Law serve, if Christianity is all by promise and faith!!!

I would have to say I went many, many years NOT understanding what the answer to that question was. Here in today's passage we have the answer to that question :-)

Let's take a look at today's passage:

19 What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed (Christ) should come to whom the promise was made; and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator (Moses).

What purpose then does the law serve? In this passage that is THE BIG QUESTION!
"...It was added because of transgressions..." The Law is to make transgression known.

Why the law?
1. It was added because of transgressions. See Romans 5:20 which says, “the law was added so that the trespass might increase.” The law brings sin to light in our lives with an overwhelming sense of damnation and wrath. You see the law was not designed to lead us in another way, but to point us back to Christ as the only way.

The problem is not the law, but our sinful disobedience that the law brings to light and further exasperates in order to show us how hopeless we are apart from the interposition of divine grace. God always intended to save by grace apart from law. God gave the law in order that it would condemn all, and thus, prepare negatively for redemption on the basis of faith. The law was not given to make alive – Galatians 3:21. The law entered, then, that it might fail. It has by the great mercy of God directed us back toward salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone.

2. The law was added until the seed had come. The law had temporary parameters and limited duration. "...until the Seed (Christ) should come TO WHOM the PROMISE was made..."

The law was only meant to last “until the Seed” (Jesus) had come.

It was not forever to rule us, as the promise was to forever to bless us."

3. The law was not on the same par as the covenant of promise because it was handed down by angels (Acts 7:38, 53 and Hebrews 2:2) with a man (Moses) acting as a go between.

“it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator (Moses).”

John 1:17 “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.”

The purpose of the Law of Moses was not to justify humankind in God's eyes (2:16). Rather, the law was added after God's promise to Abraham (v. 16, 17) to clarify the issue of sin until Christ the Seed (v. 16) came.

The law was NEVER intended to stop sin in the world or to save you.

But what the law did do was show man his desperate need for God’s grace and a Savior.

It is not enough that something is free—it must also be NECESSARY.

When I see a sale in a store or an ad, it may be a real bargain, but I pass up the purchase because it serves no real usefulness and I don’t see the NEED! The fact that the gift of salvation in Christ is free is not enough to compel men to accept it. Men must first be convinced/convicted by the Holy Spirit of their need of salvation before grace is recognized as a desirable solution.

The Law was given to bring men to the point of recognizing their NEED for grace.

20 Now a mediator does not mediate for one only, but God is one.
He (God) alone can apply that plan in accordance with the terms He established – promise, faith, and grace rather than law, works, and ceremonies.

21 Is the law then against the promises of God? Certainly not! (Gk - me genoito) For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law. (See Galatians 2:21)

You can almost hear the Judaizers shouting at Paul, "Is the law then against the promise of God?"

Is the law therefore against the promises of God? Paul’s answer is absolutely not. “Absolutely not” in the Greek is me genoito – it conveys horror and shock at the very concept under consideration. The thought that God’s law and promises are contrary to one another is UNTHINKABLE to Paul. The REAL ISSUE is that the law by nature was NEVER to save.

Example: The law is like a mirror that helps us see our "dirty faces." James 1:21-25. But you do not wash your face with the mirror. The mirror (the law) doesn’t take the dirt away, it just lets you see you are dirty!

The Law’s purpose was to demonstrate that man is unable to please God by his own works. The Law showed us how imperfect we really are.
The Law leads us to the conclusion that we can never make it on our own.

We eventually see that we need Jesus more than anything.

The law was not designed by God to give eternal life and righteousness. Rather, the law showed humanity's need for the promise of life through faith in Jesus Christ (v. 9; 2:16), having confined all people under their sin (see Rom. 3:23; 6:23).

Closing thoughts:
If a law could have been given that “could impart life,” then Jesus need not have gone to the cross. If law could impart life, then righteousness would have come through law. But, no law could impart life. No law could pay the price of our sin. All the law could do was EXPOSE our sin.

When we finally see ourselves trapped in sin, it is then we can put our trust in God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ ALONE!

CONCLUSION:

1. You can never fully appreciate the blessings of God’s grace and mercy until you see yourself against the backdrop of the law.

2. When we see how much the law had enslaved us; we appreciate how fully God’s grace has delivered us.

3. When we see how completely the law had condemned us, we appreciate how freely we’ve been forgiven (through Jesus ONLY).

4. When we see how trapped we were under the law, we appreciate how free we are under God’s grace.

Praise God on June 21, 1975 – I saw my desperate state and need for a Savior – And His name is Jesus Christ.

The law is to reveal sin and cause men to see their need of a savior. Its purpose is not to try to achieve salvation by keeping the law "all under sin." Galatians 3:22.

The law imposes a curse on everyone who does not obey it perfectly, which is to say, everyone. Everyone (NO EXCEPTIONS) who has been declared righteous before God (Jew or Gentile) has come into this relationship through faith in Jesus Christ and not by observing the law.

Question: Have you believed (complete trust and abandonment) on the Lord Jesus Christ?

I also pray that if you have lived a legalistic, works kind of contact with God,
that the Lord will set you free to live a faith-filled, loving relationship with God through our living Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

THIS CONCLUDES THIS WEEK’S TEACHING.

I look forward to questions, comments, and testimonies from you.

"The Changeless Promise" Galatians 3:15-18

2011-06-06T11:40:00.023-05:00

Galatians 3:15-18
15 Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it. 16 Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, “And to seeds,” as of many, but as of one, “And to your Seed,” who is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect. 18 For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

Not to get ahead of ourselves, but some may ask then what is the purpose of the law??? We will get to that next week. This study is one where we try to keep questions and comments to the weekly passage, but this is an open book study and reading ahead is a good idea as it will answer many, if not all, of your questions. Also, read Romans as it is a great letter that will give many answers to our questions on the law and on grace.

Review:
Paul takes the Old Testament, which the Judaizers claim to believe and study and use to support their view of works, and he turns it around to show them that the Old Testament, in fact, teaches salvation by grace through faith. If you go back through our previous teachings in this series, you will find Paul quoted MANY Old Testament scriptures to prove his points.

Let's take a look at these 4 verses in today's study.

15 Brethren, I speak in the manner of men [in a human analogy]:Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it.

In Genesis God made a promise to Abraham. This promise, or covenant as Paul called it here for the first time, was unconditional! No ifs, ands, or buts; no strings attached. When Moses delivered the law it contained burdensome requirements, a code of behavior that makes demands and issues threats. Quite a difference between a covenant promise and the law!

I here quote John Macarthur: “ Let me show you the difference [Abraham’s Covenant and Moses’ Law]. To Abraham, God said, "I will. I will. I will." To Moses, He said, "Thou shalt. Thou shalt. Thou shalt, or else." There is quite a difference. The promise set forth a religion for God; the law set forth a religion of man. The promise talked about God's plan, God's grace, God's initiative, God's sovereignty, God's blessing, God's promise. The law talked about man's duty, man's works, man's responsibility, man's behavior, man's obedience. The promise, which stood for grace, had only to be believed; the law, which stood for works, had to be obeyed. They were two different things.

Once a will or covenant (Greek diatheke) has been ratified (with Abraham), it cannot be altered. The covenant God made with Abraham is irrevocable, it can never be annulled or added to. “If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.” Galatians 4:29

16 Now to Abraham and his Seed (singular) were the promises made. He does not say, “And to seeds (plural),” as of many, but as of one, “And to your Seed (singular),” WHO IS CHRIST.

Christians are the spiritual seed of Abraham (see v. 29).

To avoid ANY misinterpretation of the word "seed," this passage clearly brings out that this passage was NOT referring to "seeds" as of MANY, but as of ONE. So NO spiritualizing this to be many seeds. And then it goes even further to say that this Seed is CHRIST, not the Jews, in this passage. So we see the PROMISE was made to Abraham AND Christ. This scripture makes that point clear!

Note: Thank God for the extra clarification of this verse or we would likely have many misinterpretations of who is the "seed."

17 And this I say, that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect.

Keep in mind the LAW (through Moses) did not come until 430 years LATER and that law CANNOT annul the covenant! The covenant still stands, it was NOT made ineffective by the law. The law did not replace the covenant!!!

The law, which was put into force after 430 years, could not override or annul the standing covenant with Abraham (see Gen. 15:18).

Thus, stressing the seniority of the Abrahamic covenant over the Mosaic law. For Paul, the law

was not merely a late edition in the history of salvation; rather it was completely different from the covenant God completed with Abraham centuries before.

18 For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

In this passage we just read, Paul shows the supremacy of the way of GRACE over the way of the LAW.

Our inheritance IN CHRIST is not of the law, if that were the case it would not be of promise. But it was given to Abraham BY PROMISE.

For Paul, it was crucial that this original covenant of promise be distinguished from the law of Moses. The law demands, “Do this!” The promise grants, “Accept this!” Paul drew the two into sharpest antithesis. If law…not promise; if works…not grace.

There is really not a whole lot of commentary or understanding of the original Greek to get this message. It's so clear! We sometimes make the Bible harder to understand than it has to be. This passage is a clear example of this.

Question:
Have you believed (complete trust and abandonment) on the Lord Jesus Christ?

I also pray that if you have lived a legalistic, works kind of contact with God,
that the Lord will set you free to live a faith-filled, loving relationship with God through our living Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

For some reason the 3 last blogs from this series are not showing. To view and read them go to:

Galatians 3:1-5: http://biblefood.blogspot.com/2011/04/freedom-series-stop-your-foolishness.html

Galatians 3:6-9: http://biblefood.blogspot.com/2011/05/who-are-sons-of-abraham.html

Galatians 3:10-14: http://biblefood.blogspot.com/2011/05/curse-of-law-freedom-series-gal-310-14.html

THIS CONCLUDES THIS WEEK’S TEACHING.

I look forward to questions, comments, and testimonies from you.

My book review: Radical Together

2011-05-25T12:43:00.010-05:00

Periodically (once ever month or so) I will be reviewing a book for WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group. This is my second review I hope you find it helpful. We will be back to Galatians in a few days (chapter 3).

Is it Possible to Be Radical TOGETHER?

I recommend that you read the book “Radical” as a prerequisite to reading “Radical Together” to make it more meaningful. For me, there was a concern that “Radical Together” would be the same book as “Radical” revamped with the word “together.” I’m happy to say I was wrong. It is a rather small book (165 pages including a 6-week discussion guide – which is quite helpful in a group setting).

Personally, I think the delay of a year or more from printing “Radical” to “Radical Together” was good, as author David Platt refers back to people who took his first book “Radical” and applied it to their lives. It also gave him time to explain how his church is doing this “together.” I was very pleased to have David relate how they are applying “Radical Together” in their church. He took this from “theory” to “practical reality.” This book has helped to make it clear and real on how we can be radical together as the church.

In review, I would like to briefly give some quotes from each chapter, that I feel encapsulate the chapter. This is just to give you an idea how good this book really is! I hope this helps in your deciding to read this book.

Chapter One: This chapter hit on how we are settling for those things which are “good,” and thus, missing out on God’s BEST.

Chapter Two: Here we see a balance of “…a gospel that saves us FROM work and saves us TO work.” We were “…created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” And, “We live radically, not because we have to, but because we want to.”

Chapter Three: Here we see the importance of the Word of God (Bible) in our lives. As the author states, “…if we want to make God’s glory known in the world, then we must make the teaching of God’s Word central in the church.”

Chapter Four: He gets our focus off the “superstars” and “super churches” that we see in many church organizations and, as he puts it, “…I want people in the church to be able to fulfill the purpose for which they were created without being dependent on gifted preachers, nice buildings, and great programs to do it for them.”

Chapter Five: Regarding our desire for the longing of Christ (end of the world as we know it), I like how the author puts it, “…The reality is that Jesus could come back as I write (or as you read) this sentence, and not one of us knows the time when He will come. But we do know this: Jesus hasn’t come back yet, which means there is still work to be done.” *Reviewers note: Whatever your eschatological views are (even if different from the author), don’t let them stop you from reading this book or you will miss out on reading a very life-changing book.

Chapter Six: In this chapter we see we need to get our eyes off of self and centered on God. As the author corrects the problem, he says, “…We organize our churches as if God exists to meet our needs, cater to our comforts, and appeal to our preferences.” Later, he goes on to say, “…I know of no greater motivational tool for the church than a glimpse of the sovereign, holy, majestic God who is worthy of all worship, who is high and lifted up.”

My prayer is that through the instrument of these two books, “Radical” and “Radical Together,” that the Lord will raise up a people sold out to Him!

"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

Please rate my review at the link below so Water Brook - Multnomah Books can see my reviews are helpful and continue to ask for my reviews - Thanks!

“The CURSE of the Law” Freedom Series Gal. 3:10-14

2011-05-08T19:35:00.016-05:00

Galatians 3:10-14
10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.” 11 But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for “the just shall live by faith.” 12 Yet the law is not of faith, but “the man who does them shall live by them.”13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

In our last teaching we covered Galatians 3:6-9. We saw that Paul made it very, very clear to the Galatian believers and ALL present (Judaizers, etc.) that salvation has always been the way of faith. To prove this is so, he uses the most respected Jew in the Old Testament – Abraham. Then shows “…just as Abraham “believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness…”.

Now that brings us to verses 10-14. Here we will cover the curse of the law.

Verse 10
10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them."

Paul is here quoting from Deut. 27:26 to prove his point!

Paul here teaches that the Law BRINGS a curse. He does NOT say the law IS A curse; rather striving for “salvation” by keeping the law is doomed for failure – 100% of the time.

Inevitably, the outcome of anyone who seeks the law to obtain righteousness, ALWAYS has a 100% chance of falling short of its demands. To fail in part is to fail in the whole. – As we have seen in Gal. 2:14-15 and also seen in James 2:10 - 10 For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all. And Gal. 2:16 “…by the works of the law shall NO flesh be justified”.

Verse 11
11 But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for "the just shall live by faith."
“NO ONE is justified by the law…” This is makes it clear NO ONE!

Paul quotes Hab. 2:4 to demonstrate that a person can only be justified through faith.

Verse 12
12 Yet the law is not of faith, but "the man who does them shall live by them."

“…the law is NOT of faith…” The law and faith are NOT mutually compatible ways to God.

He then cites Lev. 18:5 to buy into one part of the law is to be indebted to do ALL the law.

To claim ANY righteousness apart from the Righteousness of Christ (II Cor. 5:21) is to be drawn into an entire system of LEGALISM, and thus GRACE is taken out of the equation.

Verse 13
13 Christ has redeemed (Redeemed = literally means, "Paid the ransom, buy out a slave) us [first person plural pronoun referring to both Jews and Gentiles] from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree"),

Paul here quotes Deut. 21:23 – “...he that is hanged (upon a tree) is accursed of God…”

Being under the curse through trying to be justified by the works of the law is contrasted with being blessed as a believer (v. 9). The quotation from Deut. 27:26 says that those who do not keep the whole law are cursed, proving that all are cursed who follow the law, because all fall short of the law's standards (see Rom. 1:17; 3:10, 23).

Just as II Cor. 5:21 says Christ became SIN for us (IN OUR PLACE).
So here it says Christ took the CURSE of sin for us (IN OUR PLACE).

Verse 14
14 that the blessing of Abraham [by faith NOT the law] might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Praise God the plan of salvation does not run on two tracks, one for Jewish people and the other for Gentiles. There is only one way for all and that is through faith!

Note:
Six things that Galatians show the Law CANNOT accomplish:
1. The Law cannot JUSTIFY the sinner (Gal. 2:16)
2. The Law cannot give man RIGHTEOUS standing before God (Gal 2:21)
3. The Law cannot give the gift of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 3:2)
4. The Law cannot guarantee our spiritual inheritance (Gal. 3:18)
5. The Law cannot GIVE LIFE (Gal. 3:21)
6. The Law cannot GIVE LIBERTY (Gal. 4:8-10)
(Taken from material gathered by Warren Wiersbe)

Praise God, the law has a purpose – It shows you are in trouble, you need help, and that help is only found in TRUSTING in Jesus Christ as your LORD and SAVIOR. AMEN!

So do you want to put yourself under the law? If you do so, you must keep every bit of it, which is impossible. BELIEVE in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved!

Question: Have you believed (complete trust and abandonment) in the perfect one, the Lord Jesus Christ. Many others had experienced the brutal crucifixion, but none other was cursed on the cross for us but JESUS.

I also pray that if you have lived a legalistic, works kind of contact with God,
that the Lord will set you free to live a faith-filled, loving relationship with God through our living Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

THIS CONCLUDES THIS WEEK’S TEACHING.

I look forward to questions, comments, and testimonies from you.

“Who are the SONS OF ABRAHAM?”

2011-05-01T14:25:00.018-05:00

Galatians 3:6-9
6 just as Abraham “believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” 7 Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham. 8 And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, “In you all the nations shall be blessed.” 9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.

In our last teaching covering Galatians 3:1-5 we saw that Paul made it very, very clear to the Galatian believers that they were saved not by the “works of the law, or by the hearing of faith.” Now, he takes it a step further and shows that the way of faith has always been God’s way, EVEN in the Old Testament. To prove this is so, he uses the most respected Jew in the Old Testament – Abraham.

Abraham believed in the Christ who was to come, just as we trust in the One who has already come.

Note: Paul references Abraham 8 times in chapter 3 and once in chapter 4. Understanding of Abraham is key to understanding righteousness by FAITH alone (not of works). The spiritually blind Jews of that day had never expected “Father Abraham” would be used as an example of salvation by Faith alone (not of works). Surprise, Surprise!!!

Verse 6 just as Abraham "believed God, and it was accounted (credited, or declared) to him for righteousness."

Believing in God resulted in Abraham being credited righteous.

Paul uses the truth that Abraham was declared righteous by “faith alone” in contrast to the Jewish (Rabbinic) belief that God blessed Abraham because of his meritorious deeds (a tradition of man).

In verse 6 Paul is quoting from Gen. 15:6 – “ And he [Abraham] believed in the LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness.” *before being circumcised*

Abraham “believed GOD” and it (his believing) was counted righteous, JUST LIKE the Galatians (gentiles), who through faith, not by doing deeds/works, were also made righteous.

Isn’t it amazing how clear things are in the Bible when our eyes are opened!

Note: There may be some repetition here, but I believe this is a truth we can’t spiritually afford to miss. I hope you’re getting it! Sadly, most “Christians” today have a works based relationship with God.

Verse 7 Therefore (consequently) know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham.

Only by FAITH is it possible to be “sons of Abraham.” The Jews didn’t like that!!! Paul’s words were a stinging rebuke to the false teaching of these Judaizers. Decent by bloodline does NOT create sons of Abraham in the sight of God. The thought that you could be of the flesh, from the lineage of Abraham (Jewish) and NOT be true “sons of Abraham,” and thus, have salvation from the Lord, was not what they wanted to hear or had been taught.

Even Jesus told the Jewish leaders who were against Him, “…You are of your father the devil…” (John 8:44)

What a shocker! You have to understand the Jewish people were very proud of their relationship with Abraham. The trouble is they thought their blood relationship to Abraham guaranteed them salvation.

NOTE: Do we not see this same problem today? People think if they are brought up in a Christian home that they are automatically Christian. In the Northeastern United States where I grew up, if you asked someone if they are a Christian, they usually say “I’m Catholic” and that comes to most by being born into it; or here in the south where I live now, the most common thing you will hear is “I’m Baptist” or some other denomination. *This is not a bash against Catholics, Baptist, etc. – My closest friends come from a variety of churches. But that wasn’t the question!!! I asked if they are Christian!!! Christians are not born that way and you aren’t Christian just because you go to a church. ALL Christians at some point yielded their lives to Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. It has well been said, “God has NO grandchildren.”

Then verse 8:
Verse 8 And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, "In you all the nations shall be blessed."

God did and continues to justify all who come to Him by FAITH ALONE.
You could be a “Gentile” (non-Jewish) and by FAITH be “sons of Abraham.” Thus, the Lord said to Abraham, "In you all the nations shall be blessed."
(See Genesis 12:3)

Verse 9 So then, those who are of faith [including Gentiles]are blessed with believing Abraham.

The believing (of faith) Gentile is as equally blessed as the (of faith) believing Jew.

By “Belief in God” – Meaning those who have entered into a real relationship with God as master of their lives, not just head knowledge (mental-assent) that we see so common today.

For more on this topic (Abraham and faith) in the holy scriptures, please read all of Romans 4. As some have put it, Romans 4 is the best commentary on Galatians 3.

Question: Are you among the true “Sons of Abraham”?

You are if you have believed (complete trust and abandonment) on the Lord Jesus Christ.

I also pray that if you have lived a legalistic, works kind of contact with God,
that the Lord will set you free to live a faith-filled, loving relationship with God through our living Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

THIS CONCLUDES THIS WEEK’S TEACHING.

I look forward to questions, comments, and testimonies from you.

Freedom Series: “Stop Your Foolishness!” Gal. 3:1-5

2011-04-09T22:26:00.011-05:00

Galatians 3:1-5

¹ O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed among you as crucified? ² This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? ³ Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? ⁴ Have you suffered so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? ⁵ Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

As we start this new section of Galatians (Chapters 3 and 4), we will get into the Biblical doctrinal position and the Gospel of Grace.

These two chapters should set you and me free from any form of legalism or self-centeredness in our Christian life. May we all grow as we study these next 60 verses.

Today, we will see some questions Paul asked these Galatian believers.

He was having them evaluate the foolishness of their being influenced by the Judaizers, who falsely taught that salvation required not ONLY faith in Christ, but also circumcision and keeping of the law.

As we look at this verse-by-verse, I will try to accurately expound on these verses based on the Greek (New Testament originally written in Greek) and in the context of scripture.

¹ O foolish (Gk. Anoetos - stupid) Galatians!

[Question One] Who has bewitched [fascinated by emotional appeal of Judiazers] you that you should not obey the truth [that is the pure Gospel], before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed (plackered, announced on a poster) among you as crucified? Answer: Judaizers (and their own stupidity).

Check out brain before entering Church
(nothing preached is to be questioned – NOT!)

Verse One: In the Greek “foolish” is the word “Anoetos” – It is meaning that the Galatians were being foolish/stupid because they weren’t thinking this through scripturally!!! They were getting misguided by Judaizers. Letting themselves get sidetracked from the very clear message of Jesus Christ and Him crucified that they had received when Paul preached to them.

Application: Watch your “emotions” or “anything” that is getting you off the PURE Word of God. We need to be careful! Don't Check Your Brains OUT at the Door. We aren’t supposed to be “stupid” and swallow everything we hear hook, line and sinker when we go into a church or hear a sermon. We need to be like the “Berean” believers who, after hearing Paul preach, it says, “…searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” (See Acts 17:11)

²[Question Two] This only I want to learn from you (we would say, answer this one question) Did you receive the Spirit by the works (legalistic observance) of the law [Answer: An obvious NO], or by the hearing of faith? [Answer: An absolute YES]

The Galatians had to agree that they received the Holy Spirit as a free gift of God from the sovereign God apart from any good works or human merit on their part. Faith was awakened in their heart through the preaching of the gospel (by the Bible). It is so important that we preach the Bible that faith may arise in the hearers heart (See Romans 10:17).

³[Question Three] Are you so foolish (stupid)? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect (complete, brought to spiritual maturity) by the flesh?

“…made perfect by the flesh…” In other words, by your own human effort!!!

Anytime you start in the Spirit and go back to the flesh, which is trusting in yourself, i.e., it is independent reliance on one’s own accomplishments rather than trust in the Holy Spirit. When that happens, you are going backward not forward!

⁴[Question Four] Have you suffered so many things in vain--if indeed it was in vain? They suffered ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in vain!!! All they had suffered/experienced in and for Christ was NOT IN VAIN and they knew it.

Their salvation was a work of Christ from beginning to end!

Don’t fall for legalism to grow spiritually, it won’t happen!!!

This brings us to our fifth and final question!

⁵[Question Five] Therefore He who (constantly) supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles (Gk. Dunamis – elsewhere translated “Power”) among you, does He do it by the works of the law [no], or by the hearing of faith?— [yes]

The Galatian believers had to remember how they came into their relationship with God (Christ) in the first place, which was by a work of the Holy Spirit. The evidence of the Holy Spirit changing them and doing miraculous things in their lives was clear! It didn’t happen by the law, and it won’t happen by the law. But it is and always will be by the hearing of faith (the Gospel).

What can we learn for our lives from this passage.

1. We can start right – Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and go backwards and try to get “closer” to God by works!!! I would venture to say when you and I got saved (by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ), we did so of a pure heart. THEN others (in the church, or so-called Christians) said you needed to DO MORE! Thus, was the beginning of a love relationship with God turning into a sad, miserable, and legalistic relationship with God. It is so sad to see the life of God sucked out of a new believer by legalism.

Note: This is absolutely NOT saying we can live a life of sin. A true Biblical salvation experience will ALWAYS lead to a changed life!!! (Ezekiel 36:26, 27 & II Cor. 5:17) Sin will lose its overwhelming power over you (you are no longer a slave to sin, but to righteousness - Romans ). I like to tell people when we get saved (and as we grow spiritually) God will change our “WANT TO’s.” We will find we no longer “want to” sin. We “want to” live in fellowship with God, not out of legalism, but out of a love relationship with God. ISN’T THAT AWESOME!!!

I also pray that if you have lived a legalistic, works kind of contact with God,

that the Lord will set you free to live a faith-filled, loving relationship with God through our living Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

THIS CONCLUDES THIS WEEK’S TEACHING.

I hope to get questions, comments, and testimonies back from you all.

My book review of RADICAL by David Platt

2011-04-02T10:32:00.027-05:00

Periodically (once ever month or so) I will be reviewing a book for WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group. This is my first review I hope you find it helpful.

We will be back to Galatians next week. Starting with chapter 3. I apologies for having to put off the Galatian study until next week.

As I started my read through “Radical,” the one thing that concerned me was the author pastors a mega-church and is talking about Third World countries where Christians have to secretly meet in small gatherings. I wondered how he could relate to their situation.

Chapter 1 - A great start to the book as David begins by dealing with the struggles to live as “Radical,” and also gives examples of true life stories about how different Christianity is in other parts of the world. Stories he shares throughout the book are touching!

Chapter 2 – An interesting thing I note in this chapter and throughout the book is how God is moving in other parts of the world in small “house churches.” He deals with a different God-honoring mindset in believers in Third World Christianity.

Chapter 3 – We are so prone (especially in America) to trust in our own power and not in the power of God, even though we mistakenly think we are trusting in God when we really are not!

Chapter 4 - I love the way he emphasizes “World Missions.” It is hard to read this book and still have the old excuse of “I’m not called to the mission field” or “my mission field is America.

Chapter 5 – In this chapter, David deals with, “How do we make God’s glory known in all nations?” He then shares on what discipleship looks like, and the theme continues throughout the book.

Chapter 6 - What a great chapter on American wealth and world poverty! It seems the author struggles himself with where to draw that line on the acceptable lifestyle we can live with regard to American prosperity. He also discusses how our convictions vary in how to use our wealth for God’s work.

Chapter 7 - There is NO plan B!!! This chapter could stand alone as a booklet on why ALL need to come to God through Jesus Christ. He sums this up in seven vital truths. Great chapter!!!

Chapter 8 – This chapter might cost you your life - See Matthew 10:39. In this chapter we learn that the Lord’s will is not always safe, often He calls us to do dangerous things for Him. This chapter will also open your eyes to many wonderful truths in Matthew 10 that have otherwise been skimmed over or avoided. That is until now! Matthew 10 will forever be a part of me now.

Chapter 9 – In this closing chapter, David suggests a one-year “experiment” for those who want to be a “radical Christian.” While the 5 areas (steps) are good (very good) that David lays out, I look at them as a good “suggestions” for what to do now that you have read the book. After reading this book, the Lord may lead you to do these 5 steps or He may lead you differently (maybe even more radical).

My closing words of the book, “Radical” is that even if only 1 percent of us who have read this book take it to heart and apply it to our lives, I believe we would have a different American church, and a better one at that! I still wonder if our overly large churches and our many expenses cut into our attempt to be “Radical” Christians.

My conclusion in reading and reviewing this book is not to concern myself with David Platt or his church, but to hear the message for the truths it speaks to ME personally.

I encourage all to read this book!

“I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.”

Read entire chapter one here for free:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/36473030/Radical-by-David-Platt-Chapter-1

Available at www.amazon .com (http://tiny.cc/ft81v) at a great price!

Freedom Series "Crucified with Christ" Gal. 2:15-21

2011-03-27T20:09:00.007-05:00

v. 15-16 We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles [both are in need of salvation], knowing that a man [person] is not justified by the works of the law but by [means of] faith IN Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

1. "knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law" Justification is an either-or, it is NOT a both-and! It is either justification by works or justification by faith. It can't be both!

2. "but by faith IN Jesus Christ" Justification is by CHRIST ALONE! No merit or labor of your own! Even the FAITH is not ours but given to us by God!!! Otherwise we could boast of OUR FAITH!

Note: Sadly, many do boast on THEIR FAITH (thus giving themselves credit). Ephesians 2:8, 9 clearly shows that we can't boast in the grace or in the faith as they are gifts of God.

Justification is an ACT of God.

Justification is the act of God whereby He declares the believing sinner righteous in Jesus Christ. In Justification, God declares the believing sinner righteous.

I like Ray Pritchard’s definition of Justification: The word “justify” means to “declare righteous.” It refers to a verdict from the judge that allows a defendant to go free. It means that the defendant is declared not guilty, innocent of all charges, and there is no record against him in the eyes of the law. If you are justified, your record is clean and clear and you are free to go. To be justified is the opposite of being condemned. If you apply that truth in the spiritual realm, it looks like this: Justification is that act of God whereby he acquits guilty sinners (that is, he declares them innocent), on the basis of the death of Christ. This gift of justification is received solely on the basis of faith wholly apart from good works of any kind. Justified sinners are thus pardoned, acquitted, set free, accepted by God, and treated as righteous.

If this be true [and God's word says it is so], observing the Jewish laws cannot justify us, why should we still obey the Ten Commandments and other Old Testament laws?

We know that Paul was not saying the Law is bad, because in another letter he wrote, “the Law is holy” (Romans 7:12).

Instead, he is saying that the Law can never make us acceptable to God.

The Law still has an important role to play in the life of a Christian.

The Law:

(1) guards us from sin by giving us standards for behavior;

(2) convicts us of sin, leaving us the opportunity to ask for God’s forgiveness;

(3) drives us to trust in the sufficiency of Christ, because we can never keep the Ten Commandments perfectly.

v. 17-19 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we (Jews) ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Certainly not! [or GOD FORBID] For if I build again those things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor [when we sin it’s not the fault of a faulty Gospel, but it’s ours]. For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God.

To imply this message, allows Paul (or any believer) to go back to their old way of life, and even sinning (continuously as a way of life) is IMPOSSIBLE.

Because we have all been infected by sin, we cannot keep God’s laws perfectly. Fortunately, God has provided a way of salvation that depends on Jesus Christ, not on our own efforts. Even though we know this truth, we must guard against the temptation of using service, good deeds, charitable giving, or any other effort as a substitute for faith. All the law has done was to show his own helplessness.

So verse 19 ends with... For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. DIED to LAW, thus LIVE to GOD.

Now that I have "died to the law" the outcome of that?

v. 20 I have been (past tense-positionally) crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me [CHANGING MY DESIRES – MY WANT TO’S]; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. "I have been (past tense-positionally) crucified with Christ..."

That is why I'm dead to the law (which includes self-acheivement/merit for favor with God), because I died with Christ, I identify with His death and also with His life! He is my life!!! Legally, God looks at us as if we had died with Christ. Because our sins died with Him, we are no longer condemned (Colossians 2:13-15).

Being “Crucified with Christ” implies a RADICAL transformation within the believer.

Paul realized that on the cross, a "great exchange" occurred. He gave Jesus his old, try-to-be-right-before-God-by-the-law life, and it was crucified on the cross. also with His life! He is my life!!! “…NO LONGER I WHO LIVE, but CHRIST lives in me…” (See Colossians 1:27)

If you truly are a Christian, then you must see and believe that Jesus gave His life for your life – Christ came to live in him. So your life isn't your own anymore, it belongs to Jesus Christ! We doesn't own our life (that life died); we are simply "managing" the new life Jesus gave us.

THOUGHT: Are you a believer? If so do you recognize the “GREAT EXCHANGE” that took place for YOU on the cross? Are you aware that as we have been crucified with Christ, so we no longer live for ourselves (self-centered) but for Christ?

Our Christian life began when, in unity with Him, we died to our old life (see Romans 6:5-11). And yet the focus of Christianity is not dying, but living. Because we have been crucified with Christ, we have also been raised with Him (Romans 6:5). “…the life which I now live [it’s new - All different in a good way now] in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

What can we say except thank you Jesus, thank you for your love for me and thank you for given your life for me!

v. 21 I do not set aside [to make void] the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.

Salvation is only by the GRACE OF GOD and work of Christ ON THE CROSS.

Believers today many still are in danger of acting as if Christ died needlessly.

How? By their own brand of Christian legalism, they are giving people extra laws to obey. By believing they can earn God’s favor by what they do, they are not trusting completely in Christ’s work on the cross.

If we could be saved by being good, then Christ did not have to die. But the cross is the only way to salvation.

CONCLUSION: To say salvation can be obtained by any human effort is an INSULT to the GRACE OF GOD and to the CROSS OF CHRIST, for it declares both to be unnecessary.

All that is required of us to be JUSTIFIED, therefore, is to acknowledge OUR SIN and OUR HELPLESSNESS, to REPENT of our years of self-assertion and self-righteousness, and to put OUR WHOLE TRUST and CONFIDENCE in Jesus Christ to save us.

We conclude this week and this chapter.

Next week we start chapter 3 Invite others to join us here or on our Facebook group.

Paul Takes a Stand (No More Racism) - Galatians 2:11-14

2011-03-22T14:05:00.029-05:00

NOTE:

In verses RED is actual verse,

BLUE is my inserted thoughts for clarity,

and Green is the Greek meaning, not always seen in English.

v. 11-12

Now when Peter had come to Antioch [third largest city in the Roman Empire with a half million people] at this time , I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed [this shows us Paul’s Apostolic authority]; for before certain men came from James, he would eat [love/agape feast] with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew (Gk. Hupostello – In the imperfect tense meant gradually) and separated (Gk. Aphorizo – Complete and final separation) himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision.

PETER’s PRESPECTIVE:

Peter came to Antioch and, at first, he was enjoying

fellowship with his Gentile brothers disregarding the

old taboos. He shared the common meal with his

Gentile brothers.  It was all cool and good to eat

together until some strictly Jewish Christians from

Jerusalem came across Peter in Antioch.  Then,

Peter “withdrew” in the Greek it meant he

gradually pulled away from eating with the

Gentiles. Also, the word “separated” in the Greek

meant a final separation from eating with Gentile

believers.

Peter let them (Jewish believers) get to him and he

FEARED them.  Knowing they did NOT approve

of a Jew EVER eating with a Gentile

(even if both are saved – hmm!)

Peer pressure (in the form of FEAR) got the best of

him.

Peter, so to speak, folded under the pressure (fear).

THOUGHT: Do we let the “fear of man” influence us

in how we act or who we hang out with.

Proverbs 29:25 says, “The fear of man brings a snare.”

Peter knew Gentiles could be saved – Acts 10, and in

Acts 15:9 he stated that God had “…put no

difference between us (Jews) and them (Gentiles).”

So his behavior of no longer eating with Gentiles was

nothing short of being hypocritical.

v. 13-14

And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy. But when I saw that they were not straightforward (lit. walking straight) about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all [public rebuke, not private], "If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles [Peter no longer observed Jewish food regulations] and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to live as Jews?

PAUL’s PRESPECTIVE:

Paul could not allow Peter to do this. It was hypocritical

on Peter’s part, and because of Peter’s role (influence)

in the early church, his hypocritical actions could lead

others astray.

Although Peter was a leader of the church, he was

acting like a hypocrite.  He knew better, yet he was

driven by fear of what others would think.

Paul knew that he had to confront Peter before his

actions damaged the church.

Paul did not wait to correct Peter.  It made no

difference to Paul that it was “one of the pillars”

of the church – Peter!

It was wrong, and that was all that mattered to him.

A famous name can never justify an infamous

action to the point that other Jews believers

followed Peter’s (poor) example, and

EVEN Barnabas was influenced. (v. 13)

THOUGHT: Today, we see many high-profile

ministers who are almost considered above

correction.  The name of the minister or fame

of a Christian does not make them exempt from

living Christ-like.  We need to stand for the

truth regardless of who it is that is promoting error.

With the acceptance of Christians being either

Jewish believers (plus keeping the law and traditions)

and also of Gentile believers being Christian

(but not required to keep the law and Jewish traditions),

resulted in two distinct classes of Christians

(Jew believer more looking down on Gentile believer)

in the church.  Not a good thing.  This is a real problem

today, too.

Example: I see Jewish believers (original branch) acting

like they’re one up on Gentile believers (grafted into

the branch).  I think it’s great to see Jewish believers,

but that doesn’t make them one up as believers

because they are Jewish.  Also, people do this regarding

tongues or no tongues, water baptism sprinkled or

immersed, etc, etc.  We will have varying views on

“non-essentials”areas, but we do need to stop making

these distinctions points of division, or acting like one is

a better Christian than another because of his

NON-ESSENTIAL beliefs.

BOTTOM LINE WE ARE ALL SAVED BY GOD’S

GRACE – NO CREDIT TO YOU!

It could not be right that the Gentiles come to God

by grace and Jews come to him by the law. For Paul

there was only one reality - GRACE.

A church ceases to be Christians if it contains 
class (or race) distinctions.

Three practical truths we learn from this passage are:

1. Great leaders can fall - May God help us to test every

message we hear by His Word, and help us from

exalting ANY human leader above measure.

2. God’s grace means no second-class Christians -

May we never distinguish in the body of Christ

those of different social status, race, or anything else.

3. Standing for the Gospel can be lonely – Paul stood

alone here.  History shows many great Christian

leaders stood alone.

So, we conclude this week’s lesson

on Galatians.

This coming weekend we will cover

Galatians 2:15-21 (conclude chapter 2).

Do invite people to join us at: http://www.biblefood.blogspot.com/

or on FB go to the group: “Galatians Study”

Comments welcome!

Galatians - Freedom series – “Freedom Fighter" Gal. 2:1-10

2011-03-14T15:15:00.018-05:00

Breakdown of materials in Galatians:
Chapters 1 & 2: Paul tells of his own experience.
Chapters 3 & 4: Doctrinal position of the Gospel of Grace.
Chapters 5 & 6: Application of the Gospel of Grace.

As we go into Galatians 2:1-10 I encourage you to read Acts 15:1-35, as they are sharing the same time period and should add to your understanding of this Galatians study.

We can call Paul a “Freedom Fighter” as he was not going to allow false teaching (Judaizers – A mixture of law and grace for salvation) to come into Galatia. Paul would fight to keep this gospel from being corrupted by legalism.

Defending the Gospel
Verse 1 - Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and also took Titus with me.

Jerusalem was “like” the headquarters (Bible Belt) of Christianity. Paul was led to speak to the Christian leadership there, but needed to be careful not to say too little and seem to be abandoning his principle beliefs, and not to say too much and seem to be at variance with the leadership there.

God's timing is best – How would you handle it if God kept you some place (or from some place) for 14 years while you’re wanting to go – All in His timing!

Barnabas [name means “son of encouragement] was one of Paul’s closest friends (see Acts 9:26-28).

In Acts 13:1-Acts 14:28, after his return from Arabia to public preaching, who did he look for but his friend Barnabas! We see Barnabas accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey – they were a team!

THOUGHT: Don’t we all need “Barnabas – Encouragers” in our life!
Maybe you also need to be a Barnabas/Encourager to someone else!

Brief thought on Titus: Titus was a Gentile believer. Apparently, he came to Christ through Paul’s ministry. (See Titus 1:4)

Verse 2 - And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I might run, or had run, in vain.

Paul went by the Spirit's leading to Jerusalem and got together with the Christian spiritual leaders there to clarify the issue of, whether Jew or Gentile, salvation is by Christ alone and that salvation does not require a Gentile believer to be circumcised. Now all believers are on the same page – Salvation comes through the grace of God!

Verse 3 - Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised.

It’s quite possible Paul took Titus to Jerusalem to show the fruit of an uncircumcised Gentile believer. Since salvation was not by any works, he did NOT need to be circumcised.

Verse 4 - And this occurred because of false brethren [fakes - in this case Judaizers, not Christian at all] secretly brought in [crept in, a gradual infilteration] to spy out [with a critical and hostile intent] our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage,

This is the typical pattern of false brothers.
False Brethren --> Secret Spy --> Take away liberty --> Result: Bondage

We have these in almost all churches today. They may act like a Christian, but inwardly their motive is to infilterate and destroy our gospel-given FREEDOM! Be on the alert for them!

Those who try to add any works (circumcision/law) to salvation are ultimately taking away our liberty/freedom we have in Christ and bringing us into bondage!

THOUGHT: Has the peace and joy in your Christian walk disappeared and been replaced by a peaceless/joyless “have to do” works orientated salvation? Check to make sure you didn’t allow some false teaching into your life. This may be the first time you have recognized it!

Verse 5 - to whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

Any wavering here and the gospel of grace would have been hurt or gone.
Basically, he didn’t allow false teaching for even an hour [not for anytime].

THOUGHT: Do we see a works salvation being preached around us? If we do, we shouldn’t put up with it for a second!

Note: We are NOT talking about FRUIT that will follow a true conversion

Verse 6 - But from those who seemed to be something [James, Peter and John] - whatever they were, it makes no difference to me; God shows personal favoritism to no man - for those who seemed to be something added nothing to me.

The wording here seems strong, but Paul was not meaning disrespect for Jerusalem church leaders, but taking them off their “superstar”status [still a problem today], clearly stating God doesn’t have any favorites. Paul had the truth (just like them). They were leaders in the Church [Jerusalem] but they didn’t change Paul or his message. The gospel of truth is the same everywhere!

THOUGHT: I see this “superstar” image among many ministers. We need to get past that and respect their gifting from God, but still see them as people just like you and me.

Verse 7 - But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised [Gentiles] had been committed to me, as the gospel for the circumcised [Jews] was to Peter.

All this is indicating a calling to a certain group of people. Peter, by God’s direction, was primarily called to preach Jesus Christ to the Jews; whereas, Paul was called primarily to the Gentiles.

Verse 8 - (for He who worked effectively in Peter for the apostleship to the circumcised also worked effectively in me toward the Gentiles),

THOUGHT: All people need to hear the same gospel message, but we may feel led/inclined to reach out specifically to a certain group with that message.

Examples: Inner city, drug addicts, bikers, or any other people group you can think of.

Verse 9 - and when James, Cephas, and John [all ministering to the Jews],who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship (Gk. Koinonias – carries with it the idea of partnership, being in this together), that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.

If you get the “left hand of fellowship” that’s not good. The “right hand of fellowship” is good. That meant they were working together (partnering) for the goal of the evangelizing of all people. Thus, the Christian leadership in Jerusalem gave their approval to Paul’s ministering Jesus Christ to the Gentiles without the requirement of circumcision or keeping the Jewish law.

NOTE: I’m sure the enemies' dream was to divide the church, but praise be to God they all agreed on the One Gospel message for all people!

Verse 10 - They desired only that we should remember the poor [specifically in Jerusalem], the very thing which I also was eager to do.

They did ask that Paul remember the poor, meaning more specifically the poor in Jerusalem, which was obviously no problem since that was already in the heart of Paul.
(See Romans 15:25-33; I Cor. 16:1-4 and II Cor. 8:9)

THOUGHT: Are you remembering the poor?

Concluding thought:
Please let this letter speak to you and free you from any man-made bondages!

Next week we’ll continue with verse 11.

Please pass this on to others – Thank you!

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Foundations of the Church - Prayer

2011-03-05T13:39:00.008-05:00

We will be back to our Galatians series next week, but this week I am bringing you my most listened to sermon and notes. It has touched lives - may it touch yours.

To hear audio sermon on PRAYER go to: http://sermon.net/biblefood/sermonid/127919

We need to be a "House of PRAYER"
Matthew 21:13 "And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves."

The greatest reputation of the Lord's House should be the "house of prayer." Churches have reputations as a great singing church, a great preaching church or a great programs church.
But how long has it been since someone referred to a church as a "praying church?"

"Every congregation and all believers everywhere need united agreement in prayer and faith.

True, we can play privately, but we must also come together with the church expecting to find one accord in prayer. The church in Acts began in one accord in prayer (Acts 1:14; 2:1). United prayer was a top priority of the apostles and the people (Acts 6:4; 4:18-33; 12:1-25; 15:1-30). United agreement in prayer is necessary because of who we are.

"The church is dying on its feet because it is not living on its knees.

Prayer simply defined is: Prayer is communication with God. It is communion with Him.

He desires heart to heart communion with us as individuals and as a group.

"THE FIRST CHURCH WAS A PRAYING CHURCH

Acts 1:14 "These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication"

Prayer must be a continuing activity in the church.

Acts 1:24 "And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,"

Prayer seeks to know Gods choice.

Acts 2:42 "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers."

Prayer must be an established, permanent, steadfast and unmovable function of the church.

Acts 3:1 "Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer"

Prayer must have a permanent place in the schedule of the church. Prayer must have a priority and not be pushed around or pushed out of the way to make room for something we want to do.

Acts 4:31 "And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost"

Prayer is necessary to maintain the fullness and power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Many of these believers were in the upper room on the day of Pentecost.

Acts 6:4 "But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word."

Prayer is the balance to the Word. The study of the Word prepares the message but through prayer the messenger is prepared.

Acts 6:6 "Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them."

Prayer before we lay hands on others makes sure that Gods hand is on us first.

Acts 7:60 "And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."

Prayer is the way to live but it is also the way to die.

Acts 9:40 "But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up."

Prayer is the means by which miracles take place.

Acts 10:9, 11 "Peter went up upon the housetop to pray and saw heaven opened"

Prayer is the place where we see heavenly visions.

Acts 10:30 "And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,"

Prayer and fasting takes us beyond seeing what is physically seen and we see into the unseen realm of the Spirit.

Acts 12:5 "Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him."

Prayer in the book of Acts church was more than a "name it and claim it" thing but it was a fervent and earnest spiritual warfare of intercession.

Acts 12:12 "he came to the house of Mary the mother of John where many were gathered together praying."

Prayer involves coming together to pray so that we can agree together.

Acts 13:3 "And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away."

Prayer and fasting should be done before we send missionaries, evangelist and anyone that goes out from the church to minister. This would make a difference when we send our youth on a mission trip. Rather than gather around the van and pray as they are driving off, we should have a time of prayer and fasting and then lay hands on them for ministry.

Acts 14:23 "And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed."

Prayer and fasting should accompany the appointment of every leader in the church.

Acts 16:13,16 "And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither." "as we went to prayer."

Prayer could be found by the river side or in a house because if believers are there, whatever else might be happening prayer would be a part of it.

Acts 16:25 "And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them."

Prayer and singing go together but singing must never become a substitute for prayer. Singing praises compliments our prayers with the expressions of faith.

Acts 20:36 "And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all."

Prayer was practiced by Paul when he was leaving friends behind.

Acts 22:17-18 "And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance. And saw Him saying unto me, make haste..."

Prayer sometimes gives warnings and directions for our safety. Here Paul was told to leave Jerusalem quickly.

Acts 28:8 "And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him."

Prayer of faith that heals the sick must never lose it's place in the ministry of the church.

Prayer Quotes:

"Prayer is a God ordained means to accomplish God ordained ends." Erwin Lutzer

"Prayer is not convincing God to do something He doesn’t want to do, but laying hold of His highest willingness." Erwin Lutzer Hos. 7:14 (wail but won’t pray)

"Prayer is nothing more than digging out the treasures that God has laid out for us." John Calvin

"The little estimate we put on prayer is evidence from the little time we give to it." E.M. Bounds

John Bunyan’s famous treatise. His definition of prayer is clarifying and helpful. "Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the heart or soul to God, through Christ, in the strength and assistance of the Holy Spirit, for such things as God hath promised, or according to the Word, for the good of the church, with submission, in faith, to the will of God."

It's time to Pray Church!!!

Galatians - Freedom series – “Paul comes out of hiding - briefly” Gal. 1:18-24

2011-02-28T16:45:00.012-05:00

Introduction to today’s teaching:
Paul is laying down a lot of foundation before he blasts them with the message of GRACE.
Remember that a good foundation is ALWAYS a necessity to build upon.

Verse 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see [Gk. Historesai - to get aquainted, visit with - This is the ONLY time it is used in the New Testament] Peter, and remained with him fifteen days.

Verse 19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James, the Lord's brother.

“Then after three years…”
span >– Paul was prepared by the Lord for what was ahead of him, and it wasn’t an easy road! Finally, three years after his conversion, Paul goes to Jerusalem for the first time since his conversion and met with only one of the original Apostles (Peter) for 15 days (that was a short visit after 3 years in the desert). Somewhere along the way he met James (not one of the original 12 Apostles), the actual flesh and blood brother of Jesus . In the gospel, we see that Jesus’ family thought he was crazy and did NOT believe in him (Mark 3:19-21, 31 and John 7:5). This James is not one of the original Apostles, but the actual brother of Jesus named James the Just (as he was called). He also became a leader of the Jerusalem church (Acts 15) AND also the writer of James.

Again, Paul is showing he was not influenced by anyone in the Christian circles – three years in the desert, then just 15 days with Peter and a brief encounter with James the Just. Otherwise, he met with none of the “big names” of the early church. As Kenneth Wuest says of this passage, “The strength of Paul’s language is explained by the insidious falsehoods of the Judaizers regarding his supposed dependence upon the twelve. .. He denies this charge most vehemently.”

It comes down to this ---> Paul + God (as his teacher) = Gospel of Grace!!!

Verse 20 (Now concerning the things which I write to you, indeed, before God, I do not lie.)

As he has already stated, so he states again “…BEFORE GOD, I do not LIE.”
In this case, I like how the Amplified Bible reads: 20 Now [note carefully what I am telling you, for it is the truth], I write this as if I were standing before the bar of God; I do not lie.

In this case, I like how the Kenneth Wuest translates this verse as: “But the things which I am writing to you, behold, before the face of God, I am not lying.” We can deem that being called a liar (by the Judaizers) was not something Paul wanted the Galatians falling for.

Note: It is quite an interesting experience to be trying to tell people the true gospel when they are being swayed to believe a lie by deceivers who are saying you are lying!

APPLICATION FOR YOU: How important is our integrity in what we say?

Verse 21 Afterward I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia.

From Jerusalem, you would go through Syria first to get to Cilicia.

Interesting facts about Cilicia:
Paul, known as Saul prior to conversion, was from Cilicia.

"But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia (modern day Turkey) …" - Acts 21:39 (Also see Acts 22:3)

Among the men of Cilicia who martyred Stephen was Saul (later called Paul), a man with a murderous hatred toward Christians (Acts 7:58) and yet a man who, after his conversion, became one of the greatest Christians that the world will ever know.

Verse 22 And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea which were in Christ.

Still at this point Paul was “unknown by face” to the Christians in Judea.

Verse 23 But they were hearing only, "He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith [refers to the Message of Christ] which he once tried to destroy."

Can you even imagine them getting this report! People coming to Judea and saying, “Hey, guys, you’re not going to believe this, but Saul who we all know was adamant about destroying Christians, who then just disappeared for a few years, well he’s back and he’s now preaching Christ!!!” Can you imagine getting that report!

APPLICATION FOR YOU: Picture the biggest Christ hater you know, and then you don’t hear anything of him, and all the sudden he resurfaces and he’s a preacher now. Do have an acquaintance like that? Don’t give up on that person - he is still reachable!!!

Verse 24 And they glorified God in [because of] me.

Our lives can so reflect Christ that people will not see the bigness of YOU or me, but the truth that your salvation and mine is a miracle that rightfully GLORIFIES GOD! AMEN!

This is a good stopping point. We’ll pick up with Chapter 2 next week as we continue our series on FREEDOM.

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“Paul shares his background...” Galatians 1:13-17

2011-02-20T23:00:00.009-05:00

We ended last week with verse 12, I will cover verses 13-17 this week. I will try not to go over 1000 words per devotion, in the hope that they will be short enough for you to read and comment.

¹³For you have heard of my former conduct [behavior, way of life] in Judaism, how I persecuted [and violently at that] the church of God [Gk. Ecclesia] beyond measure and tried to destroy it.

^{When Paul thought of Christians he did not think, “I wonder if Jesus is the Jewish Messiah?” No, rather he thought he was d}^{oing right by God by destroying the Christians (I Tim. 1:13) . He violently attacked the Christians and was himself responsible for many Christian deaths}^{(Acts 9:1, 24:4-5, 26:9-11). He}^{was even there when Stephen was martyred (See Acts}^{7:58,8:1 ).}

¹⁴And I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation,being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.

Studying under the well-respected Gamaliel (Acts 22:3), Saul (later called Paul) mastered the Torah and the entire Jewish law, taking his place as a Pharisee. Paul, like many today, was zealous in his religious Jewish ways.

^{To relate this to us}^{, Paul was religious but not right with God. We have many religious people around us today who are bound by their man-made traditions, laws, and legalism, but they don’t personally know JESUS!!! This was Paul’s state.}

¹⁵But when it pleased God, who separated me [set me apart] from my mother's womb [before I was born] and called me through [by] His grace,

The Bible comes back to this, we are for God’s pleasure “…when it pleased God…”

Then it goes on “…who separated me from my mother’s womb…” Paul was set apart – his life as a follower of God was predestined even before he was born (from my mother’s womb), and called Paul (as He does all of us) THROUGH HIS GRACE. Paul didn’t merit (work for) his salvation and neither do we!!! Note: For Paul’s conversion see Acts: 9:1-19

Side Note: This, among many other passages, gives us an understanding that life begins before we come out of the womb, and that abortion is killing a life. Paul was separated by God while in the womb. I believe when we are born (come out of our mother) we are really 9 months old. Life begins at CONCEPTION!

¹⁶to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood [meaning no person],

^{What was God’s purpose for Paul? To reveal HIS SON, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, in me (Paul).}

^{God has the same purpose for you and me. We were chosen by God to reveal His Son to a lost and dying world.}

^{Paul was chosen NOT for HONOR, but for SERVICE, NOT for EASE, but for BATTLES.}

^{So it is with us today}^{, we are not chosen for HONOR, though so many seek it, but for SERVICE. Yes service!}

^{Also, we were not chosen for EASE}^{. Our easy believism gospel of today is, “come to Jesus and He will take all your problems away and bless you with good things.” But in truth He has saved us to BATTLE. When is the last time you heard someone say, “come to Jesus and get ready for the battles!!!” Why not tell the whole truth to one coming to Christ! It won’t scare them off if the call has come from God to start with.}

^{To Whom was Paul called? To PREACH JESUS among the GENTILES. How ironic!}

^{Sometimes our calling includes a certain people group. It could be a country, a race, a certain group of people (homeless, prisons, drug addicts, the sick, shut-ins, etc.).}

^{Paul ends this verse by again reminding them that he did not get his message from any human (flesh and blood).}

¹⁷nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus.

^{He didn’t go running off to the Apostles and ask them to get him grounded. God sent him off in the desert (Arabia). Paul had a lot of unlearning to do, and in his case the Lord did it. No one had claims on Paul but God.}

^Note:^{God did a special work with Paul that resulted in 1/3 of the New Testament being written by him. We do well to heed his words as they are part of our Holy Canon of scriptures and are really written by the Holy Spirit through the instrument of a man called Paul.}

^{The Biblical manner by which God teaches us His will is by other mature believers, by studying the Bible ourselves, and by the Holy Spirit . ALL methods will be in line with the scriptures and never go contrary to scripture.}

^Don’t^{be like the Judaizers trying to discredit Paul’s ministry (and failed miserably) or like some who almost deify him. He was a man just like you and me except chosen in a different way. But even with that in mind remember whatever the Lord has called you to do, it is the most wonderful path for you to follow no matter where it leads. May the Lord bless you all in your journey!}

^{Next week we will finish chapter 1, and spend March in Chapter 2. Don’t get in a hurry, but ask the Lord to make Galatians real to you.}

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“A Message NOT of Man!!!” Galatians 1:11 & 12

2011-02-14T20:07:00.003-05:00

This is a short lesson this week, partly because of my week and partly because I don’t want to get into the next few verses quite yet. Paul is still laying a foundation for the message of FREEDOM he is going to deliver strongly to these believers. So, it will get quite interesting in the coming weeks and months.

We’re just going to briefly look at some more spiritual food from verse 11 & 12 this week. Also, this would be a good week for you to back track over previous lessons and please ask questions and add comments.

Let’s look at verse 11: But I make known to you, brethren [Gk. Adelphos], that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man [man’s gospel]. v.12: For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Paul wants to make known, or as we might say today, “I want this to be crystal clear to you.”

Who do we see this verse was written to? Brethren!

This is Paul, a Jewish believer, calling these Gentile believers BRETHREN!!! To make this connection even more clear, the word for “brethren” in the Greek is adelphos, with the "A" meaning 'same' and "delph" meaning 'womb'. Paul referred to the Galatian believers as his brothers in Christ by this strong terminology. They both had the same heavenly Father (we are born again from above – John 3:3). WOW!!!

Then, Paul makes it clear that no man had any part in what he had learned and was speaking. This message was not something learned in educational schools, seminary, or any man-made institute. It came directly from the LORD Himself.

Paul ends verse 12 by saying the gospel message he was sharing with the Galatians came “through the revelation of Jesus Christ". Paul is saying he was not indebted to people for his knowledge of the gospel, but had derived it entirely from Jesus Christ.

No pushing around or accusing Paul when he was bringing this liberating truth direct from the Lord!

As we close, let me ask, are we being sucked into a MAN-MADE gospel today?

Sadly, I think so many are! And as I’ve said before, since the closing of the canon of the scriptures (66 books – Our Bible), there is no revelation that will EVER come from God that contradicts the Bible. Anyone can say, “Thus saith the Lord” and then say words that are “supposed” to be direct from heaven (and thus, don’t need to be tested by the Bible). HOGWASH!!! The very early church only had the Old Testament, and then over time what we call the New Testament. What a privilege that we don’t have to wonder what God is saying to us, it’s ALL in the Bible.

Next week we’ll get a little bit into Paul’s testimony as we pick up at verse 13.

Galatians "Men Pleaser or God Pleaser" Galatians 1:10-12

2011-02-06T23:55:00.004-05:00

10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.
11 But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man.
12 For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.

In our last study Paul made it clear that you better not alter the message of Christ (to a works salvation) or you'll be cursed!!! Pretty serious stuff!

Now that brings us to Paul's next dealing with the people in this letter. Paul says in verse 10, ”For do I now persuade men [seeking the approval, obey], or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.”

Why would Paul now feel it necessary to say this?

It's believed that the false teachers (Judaizers) were questioning his Apostleship AND likely accusing Paul of acting like a Jew when among the Jews, but acting another way when around the Gentiles (i.e., Galatians). Paul makes it clear that he does not care about "pleasing men."

We see this problem also in Colossians 3:22-23 "...not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men."

Personally, I don't like people getting upset with me, but I must be willing to say whatever God's word says even if those who are lost (unsaved) don't like it, they think the message of the cross to be foolishness! (see I Cor. 1:18)

We must stay true to the scriptures, which means we cannot please men and God. We can't be both!!! Remember the gospel message is NOT what a non-repentant sinner wants to hear. And it is clear here that Paul admits he was ONCE a man pleaser "...IF I still pleased men..." then he would NOT be a bondservant of Christ.

Verse 11: "But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man."

Paul was not preaching a man’s gospel, but that which came directly from God. Today, many preach a man-centered gospel and draw 1000's. I say stick to the Bible (God's message) even if it means not being the most popular church in town, maybe being a lot smaller, too. God will reward your faithfulness to Him. It's not about numbers. Oh, that we would get that out of our heads! Praise God for us who have learned that big isn't necessarily better (often the opposite).

Example: I once had a friend visiting with me who wanted to go check out a mega-church (7,000 seat auditorium). On the way there he noticed he was wearing two different sneakers. He was somewhat embarrassed about it and was wondering if he should go to the service like that. I told him, "Brother, they will run us in there like cattle and run us out of there like cattle." No one noticed!!!

Verse 12: "For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ."

Paul got his understanding of Jesus Christ and the gospel message directly from the Lord, and ended up being an instrument of the Holy Spirit to write approximately 1/3 of the New Testament. MAIN POINT: This was not man inspired, but God inspired!

NOTE: For almost 2000 years the canon of the scriptures is closed comprising 39 Old Testament books and 27 New Testament books. So don't go saying God spoke (revealed) something to you that is beyond the scriptures. He won't EVER reveal ANYTHING that goes against His Holy Scriptures (the Bible).

As we close, let me ask you, "Are you a men pleaser or a God pleaser?"

We must live to please an audience of ONE - Please the LORD!!!
That's all that matters.

We conclude this week’s lesson on Galatians.

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Must read: The Need for Illumination by A.W. Tozer

2011-02-04T23:32:00.013-05:00

This has nothing to do with our recent Galatians study (directly) but it was just too good to not share with you. This devotion for today (Feb. 4) and everyday by A.W. Tozer (who I love and respect).

Special Devotion: "The Need for Illumination"

But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God for they are foolishness unto him, neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned. - I Corinthians 2:14

The doctrine of the inability of the human mind and the need for divine illumination is so fully developed in the New Testament that it is nothing short of astonishing that we should have gone so far astray about the whole thing...everywhere among conservatives we find persons who are Bible-taught but not Spirit-taught. They conceived truth to be something that they can grasp with the mind. If a man holds to the fundamentals of the Christian faith, he is thought to possess divine truth. But it does not follow. There is no truth apart from the Spirit. The most brilliant intellect may be imbecilic when confronted with the mysteries of God. For a man to understand revealed truth requires an act of God equal to the original of act which inspired the text...

Conservative Christians in this day are stumbling over this truth. We need to reexamine the whole thing. We need to learn that truth consists not in correct doctrine but in correct doctrine plus the inward enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. We must declare again the mystery of wisdom from above. A re-preachment of this vital truth could result in a fresh breath from God upon a stale and suffocating orthodoxy. - By A. W. Tozer The Pursuit of Man, 76-77,84.

Galatians "Break FREE - Our ONLY standard for the Gospel Message" Galatians 1:8-9

2011-01-29T14:50:00.031-05:00

Today's text:

8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.

9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. - Galatians 1:8-9

My heart goal as we study Galatians is to help you see what was going on in Galatia and also compare their problem to our own.

As we read, ask:

A. Is my church taking away or adding to (going beyond) the Bible?

B. Am I a modern day Judaizer (salvation obtained by works, law, etc.), and not by Grace Alone?

C. Do any of these warnings relate to me?

1. We must utilize God’s standard for judging error – v. 8

8 But even if we [no matter who it is], or an angel from heaven [supposed].

Yeah, like what person is going to say, "I just had a demonic hellbound angelic visit" None! Deceivers always claim it came by "an angel from heaven." Like saying that gives this angelic visit any merit!!!

Examples of this can be seen in the Mormons - Moroni (angel), Todd Bentley's - Emma (angel), and others who have said they conversed with angels.

See warning in 2 Corinthians 11:14 & Col 2:18

preach [evangelize] any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you,

In their case, it was the Judaizers. In our case "any other" would mean anyone taking from or adding to the Bible, specifically, anything that makes salvation to include works or laws as a necessity for salvation.

let him be accursed.

Accursed (Greek = anathema) means to be eternally condemned, under God’s wrath/judgment.

If someone teaches another gospel (i.e., false gospel) that affects who Christ is or how one relates to him, or distorts grace by subtracting or adding any work, it becomes another Gospel. Such a person is worthy of only one thing, a curse from God (let him be accursed).

2. We must realize the serious consequences of corrupting the gospel – v. 9

9 As we have said before [likely points to an earlier visit to Galatia] , so now I say again , if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. (eternally condemned, under God’s wrath/judgment – STRONGEST POSSIBLE WORDS).

We won't overly expound this verse, but to point out that Paul again emphasizes the curse coming to those teaching a False Gospel.

We conclude this week’s lesson on Galatians.

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Galatians "Break FREE - No Other Gospel" Galatians 1:6-7

2011-01-22T11:01:00.042-05:00

I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ." Galatians 1:6, 7

REMINDER: This letter was written because the Galatians were Gentiles (no background in Judaism), who were saved after Paul had shared the Gospel with them. But now after Paul’s departure, Judaizers (Judaizer defined as those who were seeking to impose many of the ceremonial practices of the Old Testament, especially circumcision on the Gentile converts to Christianity) came and told them additional requirements to be a Christian, i.e., they must believe in Christ, be circumcised and hold to the ceremonies of the Jewish (Mosaic) law. This erroneous teaching, Grace PLUS Work earns Salvation, is dealt with in this epistle.

As we go through Galatians, I will often refer to the Greek as that was the language the New Testament was originally written in, as there are things in the original language that we miss in plain English language.

PAUL’S SHOCK REGARDING THE DESERTION

V. 6 - I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him

who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel.

Let's break down this verse:

Lesson One: We must recognize our own vulnerability to error.

It amazes me how many of us start out believing in Salvation through CHRIST ALONE BY GRACE ALONE, but then in time we get caught up in all these works to EARN or KEEP our salvation. I've been there! Have you?

v.6 I marvel (astonished, amazed, shocked) that you are turning away (deserting) so soon (quickly) from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different (heteros) gospel,

A. “I marvel (Gk. thaumazou) that YOU ARE turning away (Gk. metatithami) so soon (Gk. tacheos) …”

1. The Greek word for MARVEL is thaumazou - to be astounded or bewildered.

2. The Greek for TURNING AWAY is Metatithami - deserting - transfering allegiance.
The verb tense implies they were not there yet, but they were getting close.

3. The Greek word for SO SOON is tacheos - quickly - also means easily and readily.

Here, we see Paul is in shock. He's letting the Galatians know they are becoming spiritual deserters of Christ because when they turned away from the true gospel (to a works salvation), it was and always is a turning away from the Person of Jesus Christ.

B. "from Him who called you in (into) the grace of Christ, to a different (heteros) gospel"

God Himself had called them (Galatian believers) into what? The Grace of Christ.

In this situation the believers of Galatia were turning away from Christ and grace to a DIFFERENT (Gk. Heteros = Another of a different sort) Gospel (by Judaizers).

When God called me and you, it was by His GRACE (not of WORKS - See Eph. 2:8,9). He did that not for you and me to NOW be led away to a different gospel which is really NO Gospel at all.

Paul is like, what is wrong with you guys, look what God did for you by calling you into the grace of Christ, and now you're going to be swayed to a false gospel of works salvation. What's wrong with you?

REMEMBER: You take the Grace of Christ out of the message of the Gospel and you are no longer following THE GOSPEL (Good News).

PAUL’S WISDOM REGARDING THE DECEPTION

Verse 7 - "which is not another (Gk. Allos - Of the same sort);

but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ."

Lesson Two: We must protect ourselves from erroneous teachers.

This message of the Judiazers (a Salvation obtained through works) was not an alternative Gospel (which means Good News). It was totally not a Christian message AT ALL!

We have many "alternative churches" out there today that take away from the message of the cross. Their message has no understanding of GRACE, either erring to, you can do anything (license to sin) because you're saved, to the other extreme, you must do all these things (works) to be saved (legalism). These "alternative churches" preaching an alternative message are NOT CHURCHES AT ALL.

Three facts about this different gospel brought to the Galatians.

1. It is a false message and not even an alternative message.
Different/another (v.6) in Gk. heteros = another of a different sort, but this was no gospel at ALL! Another (here in verse 7 in Gk. Allos - Another of the same sort.

2. It will cause you to be troubled.
Trouble in Gk. Tarassou = to disturb mentally - to agitate and stir up. Figuratively, it connotes deep emotional disturbance and refers to an unsettled mind.

3. It is a perversion of the gospel of Christ.
Pervert in Gk. Metastrepho = to reverse, to change to the opposite of what is truth.

As we battle today with an alternative false gospel, so did they in the churches of Galatia. We're being troubled by this false gospel. Note: The flesh may like it, but in your heart you have an uneasiness - You are troubled.

Last point here is their goal (false teachers) is to share this perverted gospel and get you following that error instead of the TRUTH!

Obvious modern day examples of false teaching: Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons!

But what about those not so obvious groups?

You need to make sure they are preaching a message that fits these 5 areas:
1. Scripture Alone
2. Christ Alone
3. Grace Alone
4. Faith Alone
5.The Glory of God Alone

If they are altering from any of these 5 things (basis for Christianity), I would caution you to make sure you are not getting "another" (Gk. heteros - another of a different sort) gospel which is really no gospel at all.

To be honest, when I was saved (and many years after), I got into some of the "alternative gospel" beliefs, and THEN years later learned true Christianity is ALWAYS based on: Scripture Alone, Christ Alone, Grace Alone, Faith Alone, and to the Glory of God Alone. I initially could not handle the fact that I had believed wrongly in so many ways that it troubled me, but NOT to the unsettling of my mind, but to want to believe unaltered truth. PTL!

If you are not familiar with the message of Christ as taught here in Galatians (and throughout the Bible), I ask you to listen and humbly learn. Once you understand the Gospel message, it will truly set you free and your walk with Christ will never be the same (so much better).

I would like to close with this quote:

"Note the resourcefulness of the devil. Heretics do not advertise their errors. Murderers, adulterers, and thieves disguise themselves. So the devil masquerades all his devices and activities. He puts on white to make himself look like an angel of light.”

We conclude this week’s lesson on Galatians.

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A Study in Galatians “BREAK FREE” (Gal. 1:3-5)

2011-01-15T17:40:00.034-05:00

3Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,

4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world (age), according to the will [purpose and plan] of God and our Father:

5 To whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5

This week we will finish Paul’s formal greeting, then he jumps into the problem at hand.

If by any chance you have found these foundational lessons boring…

…Hold on, this is like a roller coaster ride when it starts and pulls you to the top, yeah you were cool until the ride started down and around - so this is the final accent :-)

REMINDER:
This letter was written because the Galatians were Gentiles (no background in Judaism), who were saved after Paul had shared the Gospel with them. But now after Paul’s departure, Judaizers (Judaizer defined as those who were seeking to impose many of the ceremonial practices of the Old Testament, especially circumcision on the Gentile converts to Christianity) came and told them additional requirements to be a Christian, i.e., they must believe in Christ and, be circumcised and hold to the ceremonies of the Jewish (Mosaic) law.

So let’s look at verses 3-5:
3Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ.

Grace and peace have been called "the Siamese twins of the NT."

It is believed that one reason for beginning with this greeting was because grace was a traditional Greek greeting, whereas, peace was a traditional Jewish greeting.

Paul may have done this to break down the wall between Jew and Gentile, thus giving a greeting commonly used by both.

Some other thoughts on Grace and Peace.

The SOURCE of Salvation is grace & The NATURE of Salvation is Peace. (Nothing we can do to EARN IT – Nothing we can do to ADD to it!!!)

Another thought on this is that grace always comes first resulting in peace.
Without grace there is and can be no peace, but when grace is ours, peace
must of necessity follow.” If you are in a graceless Christianity expect a peaceless existence.

This peace comes from God the Father and OUR Lord Jesus Christ.

Real peace doesn’t come from just believing in “a god” but in our heavenly Father AND, don’t miss that AND!!! “… AND our Lord Jesus Christ.”

We cannot get to God but through Jesus Christ. There are NOT many paths (religions) all leading to the same God or place. Distinctly, the ONLY WAY to the Father is BY JESUS CHRIST (See John 14:6).

Next Verse 4:
4Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver [Gk. rescued] us from this present evil world (age), according to the will [and purpose and plan] of God and our Father:

This is the gospel message that Jesus GAVE HIMSELF for OUR sins.

It leaves no room for boasting, but once we recognize the significance that Jesus GAVE HIMSELF for OUR SINS, it is then that, convicting truth becomes a reality to us, and we repent and receive the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Then, Paul goes on and says we (believers) are DELIVERED [Greek = rescued us] from this PRESENT EVIL WORLD.

For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness
of sins. Col 1:13,14

We are no longer of this world, we have been delivered from all that is of this world (age).

I’m FREE!!!

This deliverance just expounded is according to the WILL of God. It was God’s plan and purpose that upon becoming believers, we are delivered from this world (that includes a works mentality, in this case from Judaizers).

Verse 5:

5To whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

That is a crucial point. Because any teaching that adds to or subtracts from the work of Christ – doesn’t glorify God but glorifies man.

You see if Salvation can be earned – PRAISE BE TO ME!
We hear people say, “I changed my life / I cleaned up my act – I followed the plan – I made it / I did it!!!!” ME ME ME - Praise be to me! WRONG!!!

But when I understand that I was hopelessly lost – Doomed/damned not a chance in the world of changing my status before a holy God, then ALL GLORY goes to God alone.

This is what it is all about! Giving God GLORY forever and ever.

It’s not about me (you) it’s about HIM!

AMEN!

So we conclude this week’s lesson on Galatians.

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A Study in Galatians “BREAK FREE” (Gal. 1:1, 2)

2011-01-08T16:19:00.013-05:00

1Paul, an apostle, (not of [from] men, neither by [through] man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)
2And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches (plural) of Galatia:

As I start, I ask you to remember this: Christian freedom is the liberty to become all that you can in Jesus Christ; it is not the license to do whatever you please.

This letter was written because the Galatians were Gentiles (no background in Judaism) who were saved after Paul had shared the Gospel with them. But now after Paul’s departure, Judaizers (Judaizer defined as those who were seeking to impose many of the ceremonial practices of the Old Testament, especially circumcision on the Gentile converts to Christianity) came and told them additional requirements to be a Christian, i.e., they must believe in Christ and be circumcised and hold to the ceremonies of the Jewish (Mosaic) law.
This is a salvation by grace plus Jewish customs/beliefs to be a Christian when, in truth, salvation is by grace and faith plus nothing!

Important Note: Let us dig in (6 chapters to go) before you worry about a loose salvation in which you say a simple prayer and then you can live any ole way you want. That is NOT the message of Galatians.

These Judaizers came in and were discrediting what Paul had just told the churches of Galatia as to what was required of salvation. Like many new believers, they were eager to do right to prove their faithfulness. So, when they were taught these things by the “traveling teachers” (Judaizers)…“Well, ok then, if that’s what we need to do, then we’ll do it.”

First question: Why do so many EVEN today want to serve a God with a bunch of rules and get offended at a salvation of true Grace and true Faith plus NOTHING? Could it be we want to EARN our salvation!!!

Thus, we finally come to verse 1: Paul, an apostle, (not of [from] men, neither by [through] man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)

Paul right off from the start lets them know he is an “APOSTLE.”

Paul always began his epistles in one of two ways:

1) To the Romans and the Philippians, to Titus and Philemon, he introduced himself as a servant, or prisoner of Christ.

2) To the Corinthians and the Ephesians, to the Colossians and the Galatians, he presented himself as an apostle.

Why? Because to those who embraced and welcomed his ministry, he was a SERVANT, but to those who challenged his authority he was an Apostle.

The basic meaning of the word Apostle means one who is sent out on a mission.

A) Jesus Chose 12 Apostles - Mission to Change the World !
B) The first 12 apostles who were sent out by Jesus seemed to have a unique place in the history of the church! God's plan!
C) They were used by the Lord in the birthing of His Church and in the putting together of God's Word! ( Inspired!)

Then, he clarifies his calling is NOT of MAN or NOT by MAN.

Paul was later added to this unique group of original apostles – but as he mentions here in
v.1 – He was added not by men – but by the Lord.
Paul was not commissioned by a church, or a denomination, or a theological institution… but by the risen Lord Himself.

And ends this verse with “by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead”. This makes it clear what “Jesus” we are talking about. It’s the one who came from the Heavenly Father and was RAISED FROM THE DEAD.

There is nothing wrong with institutions per se, but if you are called because of any man-made reason, you are deceived. First and foremost your call has to come from God (then, it is often confirmed by spiritual leaders).

Verse 2: And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches (plural) of Galatia.

“all the brethren which are with me” Paul didn’t come alone to deal with this problem. He was not alone on this doctrinal issue.

"unto the churches (plural) of Galatia". As we said in our introduction last week, this letter was to more than one church. The churches of Galatia were made up of likely 4 churches (Acts 13 & 14) - Iconium, Antioch, Lystra, Derbe.

Let’s close today with a story:

Sitting on top of the United States capitol building is a 20-foot statue known as the “Freedom Lady.” She was sculpted by Italian artists in the city of Rome and shipped across the Atlantic Ocean to her perch in Washington, D.C.

During the delivery, the ship carrying the statue encountered a fierce storm.
Howling winds and huge waves threatened to capsize the ship. Its skipper ordered the cargo thrown overboard.

But when the men went to toss the Freedom Lady overboard, the captain shouted, “No, never! We’ll flounder before we throw “Freedom” away.” This is the message of Galatians… Never throw away your freedom.

For more history on Freedom Lady go to: http://ladyfreedom.net/history.html quite interesting!

So we conclude this week’s lesson on Galatians.

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Galatians Study - FREEDOM in Christ - Introduction

2011-01-01T18:30:00.033-05:00

We are in 2011 and as promised we start our study of Galatians.

Also, we ask that everyone be kind and loving to each others comments. I personally will not allow bashing or arguing. If you find at anytimeyou don't agree or like the group you can always leave. We do want productive hungry Christians sharing their insights on the passages. Thanks!

We will not be rushing through it. We will likely do a lesson a week.

You may read and comment throughout the week. Comments on Facebook group will be the main place to converse.

My facebook is: http://www.facebook.com/jim.mazzulla

Group there is: Galatians Study - FREEDOM in Christ

Let's get started with our Introduction to Galatians.
This Galatians study is titled, "Break Free."

The letter begins with a greeting (Galatians 1:1-5), which notably lacks Paul's usual thanksgiving for the letter’s recipients. No beating around the bush, Paul was upset and concerned, he wanted to get directly to the problem at hand.

AUTHOR: Paul the apostle is clearly stated as the author in the very first verse of the letter (1:1; 5:2).

WRITTEN TO: The churches of the Roman Providence - Galatia. Believed to be addressed to 4 churches (Acts 13 & 14) Iconium, Antioch, Lystra, Derbe.

NOTE: Paul had started this young church in Asia Minor (Modern day Turkey). Thus, Paul communicates in no uncertain terms that Christianity, with its emphasis on faith and grace in Christ, is opposed to religion which approaches God based on good works. Paul argues strongly in this letter that there is nothing that can be added to Jesus' sacrifice for our sin, not circumcision or any other external religious forms. The gospel, according to Paul, means faith in Jesus Christ plus nothing.

DATE WRITTEN: Galatians was written in 48-49 AD just before the Council of Jerusalem (Acts 15) at the time of this crisis, one of (if not) the earliest writing in the New Testament.

PURPOSE: To deal with the problem of churches departing from the Gospel of GRACE (they start well), embracing a FALSE gospel, and accepting a counterfeit gospel of Works and Ceremony and Law.

THEME OF FREEDOM & GRACE: We named this Galatians study, "Break Free" as the theme is FREEDOM. Paul uses the word FREEDOM 28 times in the Pauline Epistles 10 times in this Epistle to the Galatians. Paul uses the word grace 100 times in his writings. Among all the other writers of the New Testament, it is only used 55 times. Paul was truly the apostle of grace. They had started well and then got away from the foundational truth of Faith and God's Grace as the only way to salvation and started to add works to it. We'll get into that in much more detail in the coming weeks.

OCCASION: Word had reached Paul that the Galatian Christians were falling away from the true Gospel of grace which he had preached, and were turning to a legalistic system of merit salvation (1:6-9). He wrote to correct this error which was introduced by false teachers.

The great reformer Martin Luther especially loved this letter; he called Galatians his “Catherine ” because, he said, “I am married to it.”

As we close our introduction to Galatians, have you started out right (Faith alone, Grace alone) and are now trying to perfect yourself by doing works? If so, this study will set you free. If not, I still believe you will learn a lot from this series.

Do invite people to join us at: http://www.biblefood.blogspot.com/
or on FB go to the group: http://tiny.cc/8x6qo

Next we will start with Galatians 1:1... (invite other to join us). :-)

Starting 2011 right...

2010-12-28T17:41:00.011-05:00

As I reminisce over 2010, there are many great things to think about and some not so great moments. But one thing never changes and that is the Holy Scriptures (the Bible). They changed my life 35 years ago and continue to do so daily. It is a fresh word from God EVERY day!

Of no other book can it be said that it is LIVING!!!

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Heb. 4:12

As we enter into the New Year, I encourage you to consider reading the Bible in one year.

It will take you approx. 15-20 minutes a day to read the Bible in a year.
Note: This is reading time! Studying will be in addition to the reading (I personally believe we need both).

Life will get busy, but it will be worth it. Do it with joy and excitement NOT as a DUTY.

I would like to share 2 links by a friend of mind who has a large group from all of the word that read and comment on daily readings.

One link will give you an OT, NT, Proverb, and Psalm reading every day. This this a FREE group with 12,000+ members (73+countries).

To JOIN this group FREE go to: http://www.oneyearbibleblog.com/welcome-to-the-one-year-bible.html

With the other link you read the Bible in Chronological order (I'm doing this for the first time).

To JOIN this group FREE go to: http://www.chronologicalbibleblog.com

That's one way to start the year right...I look forward to another year in my journey in Christ and in sharing with you.

"Are You a Burden Bearer" Gal. 6:1-5

2010-12-01T12:05:00.013-05:00

"Are You a Burden Bearer"

Scripture Reading: Galations 6:1-5

6:1 - Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 6:2 - Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 6:3 - For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, hedeceiveth himself.6:4 - But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicingin himself alone, and not in another. 6:5 - For every man shall bear his own burden.

Gal.6:1 “Fault” in the Greek is the word “Paraptoma” - A false step, a blunder, error, mistake, wrongdoing. This is the word used for slipping into sin, rather than willful sin.

We are then told, “Ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of meekness............” This word “Restore” in Greek is the word “Katartizo,” and is used to indicate putting a dislocated limb into place or to mend.

When a fellow Christian has made a false step, blundered, slipped into sin, what do we do? Kill the wounded Christian! NO!!! We (the Spiritual - meek) are to do is restore that Christian who has been dislocated from the Body of Christ, put that spiritual limb back in place, mend that fellow Christian.

The tense of “restore” is the continuous present, suggesting this may involve a process of mending; thus, we may need a lot patience and love to help this person.

NOTE: We are NOT talking about a habitual sin, willful and unrepented sin (that’s another subject), BUT rather a person who has slipped into sin, made a false step.

Gal.6:2 - “Bear ye one another's burdens (baros), and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

v.2 “Burden” in the Greek is the word “Baros” – and denotes a weight or that which makes a demand on one’s resources - It always suggest that which is heavy or burdensome.

Now, go to Gal.6:5 - “For every man shall bear his own burden (phortion).”

We see the word “burden” again, but it is a different Greek word, “Phortion,” which means - Something which is borne without reference to weight.

(See Matt. 11:30 Jesus said, “...My burden (Phortion) is light.”)

So, in life there are 2 types of burdens - heavy burdens (Baros) and light burdens (Phortion). God tells us to take care of our light burdens (phortion) with His help - verse 5,

BUT God wants us (the Body of Christ) to bear the heavy burden (v.2) of a wounded, dislocated Christian. By doing so, we “...fulfill the law of Christ,” (v.2) which I believe is to love (see Gal.5:13, 14 & John 13:34, 35). Please keep in mind that even a light burden can become heavy to a Christian who has fallen and is out of God’s will in an area of their life.

If you know someone who may, so to speak, have taken a “false step,” it may be time for you who are “Spiritual - meek” to take the necessary step to help in the process of restoring this fallen Christian. You’ll do this by walking in love with that person, encouraging that person (taking them under your spiritual wings ), and of course praying for that person.

On the other hand, if you know that you are that fallen Christian, you need to find some “strong/spiritual/meek” Christian(s) to help you out of your fault “paraptoma.” That may be your pastor, Christian friend, accountability group, etc.

On a positive note, just by knowing you have blundered and acknowledging it is a step in the right direction, for many times a fallen Christian is blind to/ignorant of his fault, which is when the Body of Christ needs to step in (in love) and let that brother/sister know that they have taken a false step.

May this word today encourage us to answer the call of being a “Burden Bearer,” or to take the necessary steps to be free from a “false step” and get back on track in the will of God.

This Ain't Heaven

2010-10-13T18:07:00.017-05:00

Yes, I’m aware that the title is not good English, but it gets my point across in the following devotion.

I often like to say, “For the Christian, this is the closest to Hell you will ever get, and for the non-Christian (unsaved person), this is the closest to Heaven you will ever get.”

My point is that as a Christian no matter how bad things get, it will only get better when we leave this life (on God’s timetable, not ours). We know eternity awaits us to be forever with the Lord (in Heaven).

My point for the Non-Christian is that no matter how bad (or good) things may be, it will only get worse when you leave this life and pass on to the next. You will have an eternity waiting you, too, totally separated from God’s presence forever and in everlasting torment (in Hell).

So when unbelievers say, “I’m in hell now,” boy, are they sadly mistaken, the worse is yet to come.

Then, you have believers saying, “Why do I have so many trials, I’m saved and I’m supposed to have “abundant life.” My answer, “Yes, as a Christian you do have “Abundant Life.” You have a relationship with Almighty God (whether you “feel” it or not), and it will culminate with you being in His presence forever.

Being a born again Christian and bound for heaven does not mean you will have no trials in this life. I was taught that basically trials were my fault or lack of faith, that I could live free from trials. So when trials came, and they sure did, I thought something was wrong with me (as a Christian). If you’ve been taught that LIE (popular in many Charismatic churches) or are still being taught that lie, it’s time that you get in a true Bible believing fellowship/church.

Let’s get straight on what the Bible says about trials.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you I Peter 4:12

Why do we think trials are some strange thing, when it is part of the process of life for all Christians.

Job puts it well when he says:
Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward. Job 5:7

In other words, you can count on it!

Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. Job 14:1
Are you born of a woman? Yep, ALL of us are; thus, we can expect trouble – It’s that plain and simple!

6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. I Peter 1:6, 7 (NKJV)

What does this verse say? In my wording, it’s saying that we may have various trials. For how long? “A little while”, yeah, no longer than maybe for 70, 80 years (until we die), AND it is a short while when compared to all eternity. How should we rejoice – GREATLY (yeah not too easy, but still true). When all is said and done, the genuineness of your faith will take you through to the Glory of God.

In closing:
Don’t let your trials get you down (especially into condemnation), but let them perfect you as the Lord intended.

We have a great promise to hold to in Hebrews 13:5 “…I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

The Lord is with you all the way, and you shall come through it, if you don’t give up….GUARANTEED! AMEN!!!

For a 33 minute audio sermon on this subject go to:

Please be aware that volume will be distorted and loud for just the first 30 seconds.

Hope that you let this devotion speak peace to you as you go through the “normal” storms of life. You’ll be the better cause of it :-)

Are you a Chameleon or Butterfly?

2010-08-25T11:42:00.024-05:00

Chameleon or a Butterfly?"

"And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." Eph. 4:24

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. " Romans 12:2

"Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." - II Cor. 5:17

Many of us look at Christianity as just a general belief in Christ. Yet, Christianity is nothing more than a mental assent or general acknowledgement of Christ. If one truly accepts Jesus Christ from His heart, touched by the Holy Spirit, there will be REPENTANCE and FAITH (Acts 20:21) in Jesus as LORD and SAVIOR, they will become a NEW CREATION (II Cor. 5:17).

Now, let us take a quick look at Romans 12:2.
the word "CONFORMED" and "TRANSFORMED" as to its Greek (the original language of the Bible).

CONFORMED - Greek is "sunschematizo" and refers to the act of an individual assuming an outward expression that does not come from within him, nor is it representative of his inner heart life... Thus, it means STOP masquerading in the habits of this world, its mannerisms, speech expressions, styles.

TRANSFORMED - Greek is "metamorphoomai", which speaks of the act of a person changing his outward expression from that which he has to a different one, an expression which comes from and is representative of his INNER being. Thus, it is to be changed from the INSIDE out (this is where we come up with our English word "metamorphous").

So the question I ask you today is,
"Are you a Chameleon or a Butterfly?"

First let us look at a Chameleon type Christian.

A Chameleon changes color based on the environment he is in to fit/blend in. If it's on something green, it turns green; if it's on something brown, it turns brown. But you know that the Chameleon is exactly the same critter.

So it is with many who carry the name "Christian." When they are around Christians, they look and act like a "Christian." Yet, when around the world (lost/unsaved), they look and act just like the world.

They look like them in their actions (deeds, words, etc.). This type of "Christian" is not a Biblical Christian at all!!!

A BUTTERFLY-TYPE CHRISTIAN is one who has truly been transformed into a most beautiful NEW creation. Once a caterpillar, now a butterfly! He is not the same anymore, he has been transformed!!!

This is what happens to the Christian. When he becomes a true Christian he CHANGES! (Luke 6:46) When he's at church or Bible study he's a Christian (like a beautiful butterfly), and when he is around others in the world (work, day-to-day activities, home, etc.) he still is a beautiful butterfly. He doesn't change based on his environment. Some may not like him being a butterfly, but he is one! He has been changed through Christ!

Oh, to be a NEW CREATION, shining Christ's beautiful love and life to a lost and dying world without spiritual hope apart from Christ!

May the beautiful butterflies be found everywhere!

So I ask you, is your Christianity more like that of a chameleon or a butterfly?

LORD, MAY OUR LIVES BE EVIDENCE TO OTHERS THAT WE HAVE TRULY BEEN CHANGED BY YOU!

In His Service,
Jim Mazzulla (Founder of BibleFood devotional)
Email:biblefood@gmail.com & jim@biblefood.org

We have also added:

http://sermon.net/biblefood (full length sermons)

http://www.biblefood.blogspot.com (Biblefood devotions in blog format)

www.youtube.com Devotion in video form - New idea - We'll see how it goes - Approx. 8-12 minutes in length).

Video Devotion 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxF73vRAw5g (Moral Decline)
Video Devotion 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FK7nz7PvVk (Human Life)
Video Devotion 3 (todays): Not up yet!

With all that being said, regular devotions by e-mail will continue, but also be aware of these other avenues of receiving the devotions.

You can also join me on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/jim.mazzulla

If we start getting enough response on FB, we'll start a "BibleFood" group for devotions and comments, etc. there as well.

That's all for today pass this on to others.

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We are almost back to school…

2010-08-07T11:00:00.001-05:00

While I'm not a student (except of the Lord – everyday), I am looking forward to school starting, especially UNCC which is very close to where I live. I am praying for a door or doors of ministry to open to reach out to the youth at UNCC. I had been working on get contacts at the university in various departments, and am now getting in touch with my contacts regarding campus ministry through my ministries (www.christianpoolplayers.com and www.meetup.com/College-Students-Changed-by-Christ) - your prayers are needed. One of my callings is to somehow make a difference with a few or many students now that we are in Charlotte, NC.

We are finally starting to get settled. We have our NC licenses and cars registered (NC plates). I have a church home (actually working with a church plant) here in Charlotte. I didn't plan to be part of a church plant, but I guess the Lord had other plans, we'll see. Also, I have found a pool hall that I consider my home base for pool. It's 30 minutes outside of Charlotte – "150 N Out" in Mooresville, NC. It's a very nice pool room. Prayerfully God will use me there, too. May the pool table become the tool God uses in my reaching out to pool players with the good news of Jesus Christ.

As we have settled into Charlotte, NC, I have not done any preaching. That has been hard. Pray the Lord will open doors of ministry to preach both locally and nationwide/worldwide. I have also been looking for work. It is hard and at times very frustrating. I have to remember the words of 1 Peter 1:7 These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold--though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. To be honest, I feel my calling is to be a full-time minister, but until that happens I need to be responsible and get a secular job. Please, please keep that in your prayers and that our Lord would open the right job soon! Once I am working, that will take time (like 40+ hours a week) from my schedule. I believe I will have more peace knowing that I am doing my part as provider in my family. In God's time full-time ministry will come J

We were excited to be able to go to Atlanta a couple weekends ago (only 4 ½ hours away) for one of the grandson's birthday. This was his 6^th birthday and the first one we had the opportunity to be there for.

Outside of the job situation (lack of employment), I love being in Charlotte, NC. (and near family in Atlanta) and hope the Lord has us stay here a long time as our home and base for ministry.

Thanks to all of you who have been my encouragers and prayer warriors.

I would like to close this out with a video song by Casting Crowns one of my favorite Christian groups. It is "Praise You In The Storm", this song has ministered to me and I pray it will minister to you too.

"What Happened? The Devaluation of Human Life"

2010-07-02T18:17:00.019-05:00

Today, we will look at the DECLINE OF VALUE put on a human life in our in SOCIETY.

I remember first studying the subject of "euthanasia (mercy-killing)." In my sophomore year of high school I was on the debate team against euthanasia. Basically, my views haven't changed, but what was mostly hypothetical at the time (1970's) is now a sad reality in our society.

As we look at our subject today, I would like to start with two scripture passages.

Genesis 9:6 - “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image."

This scripture is more than a prohibition on the taking of innocent life. Being created by God, we are stewards of our lives rather than owners. Created to be like God, our lives have an eternal purpose; set apart for, and owned by God. Since we are created in the image of God, our lives have intrinsic and immeasurable value. This is the source of the "sanctity of life" concept.
This (Gen. 9:6) is the recorded decree of God -- not because human life was cheap (the murderer's), but because human life (the victim's) was precious. This word from God bears witness to the value and sanctity of human life.

Matthew 10:29-31 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny?g And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. 30But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. 31Fear not, therefore; you are of MORE VALUE than many sparrows.

God values the sparrow, but He values you MUCH MORE. Human life is the most valued of all God’s creations!

I would like to share a recent e-mail from a friend of mine in Kentucky, he writes the following:

I thought some of you might find this interesting, I have Muscular Dystrophy, and I no longer qualify for physical therapy or water therapy because my illness is not "rehabilitatable.” Thanks to Obama's Health Care (Death Panel) Package...Since my disease progressively worsens, then they consider it throwing money away giving me therapy...Where will this lead to folks?

I don’t like to get into politics, and when I venture there, some wish I hadn’t – lol! But when I saw my friend post (above), it ticked me off how our government and society are becoming less and less concerned about people, and devaluing the worth of people by actually putting a price on when, what and why people should be helped or not. My friend’s case is not a rare occasion, but becoming the regular mind set.

Richard Land puts it so well:
"Denying life-saving health care to the elderly just because they're old, just because it's not cost-effective, is no less barbaric than leaving your elderly to die of exposure on an ice floe or out in the jungle. The only difference is the sophistication with which the elderly are dispatched. It's still barbarism and must be called as such..."

Also, our government has decided to move up the age for women getting breast exams, stating: “Potential harm of frequent mammograms outweighs benefit, task force says” [ I say it’s a bunch of hogwash!!) Later in the article, Daniel B. Kopans (radiology professor at Harvard Medical School) calls it like it is…"Tens of thousands of lives are being saved by mammography screening, and these idiots want to do away with it," "It's crazy -- unethical, really."

For full article see:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wpdyn/content/article/2009/11/16/AR2009111602822.html

This is just the beginning of things to come. Now that the government is involved in health care, expect older people to be at risk of not getting treatment, more breast cancer, and also likely more abortions, and evaluating the treatment of others based not on saving their lives, but asking the question: Is this person worth the treatment???

Life is being treated more cheaply every day. Why? I will tell you why. One source on the internet put it this way (couldn’t say it better myself):

“What is a human being? There are two very different answers that you might hear to this question. The Bible says we are creatures that God made especially in His image. Jesus says that we are of much more value than the birds of the air. That is one answer.

There is a second answer to this question.
This answer says that a human being is a rather complex animal who descended from the monkeys (the brain-washing of otherwise intelligent people) that we are a chance mixture of the right molecules and chemicals that ages ago emerged from the primordial slime and climbed into the trees and viola! - here we are!

It is no coincidence that our attitude toward life has cheapened to the extent that we have rejected or ignored the fact of God. As we in the post-Christian West abandon our Judeo-Christian heritage, life is becoming cheap once again. In the last few decades the secular humanists have done everything possible to remove any thought or consideration of God from the public sphere. Schools are pressured to not even mention the subject of God or to even sing religious songs anymore. Children are systematically taught from k-12 that a human being is really nothing more than a glorified monkey (the brain-washing of otherwise intelligent people). As we are taught and as we believe that we are nothing more than an animal, it should be no surprise to anyone that we will treat each other more and more like animals and get away with it.

This is one reason it is for our good to believe in and to honor God. It is just as the Bible teaches. "The FOOL has said in his heart, 'There is no God.” [Psa. 14:1] When we devalue God, we devalue human life. When we honor God, we give value to human life.” - Unknown Author

That’s my brief thought on it! You who are thrilled with our new government “Health Care,” it isn’t what you think it is, and I hate to say down the road “I told you this government health care is a HUGE mistake”, so I’m saying it here in advance…I TOLD YOU SO!

It’s time like never before to pray for America and Christianity as they once went together, but now they are worlds apart.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we praise you for your amazing grace, help us see the VALUE of HUMAN LIFE is possible in YOU, not in our strength. Lord may your Word in today’s devotion speak to hearts, and bring not condemnation, but conviction, followed by repentance, followed by change to all who read this today. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN!

In His Service,
Pastor Jim Mazzulla (jim@biblefood.org)

Our Ministries: www.biblefood.org, www.goproclaim.com and www.christianpoolplayers.com
My FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/jim.mazzulla

“What Happened?” - Moral Decline

2010-04-27T17:26:00.017-05:00

Today we will look at our MORAL decline in SOCIETY.

In my lifetime (50 years), I am amazed at what has happened to the morality in the USA and many parts of the world. Compromise and turning our heads away from things that needed to be confronted (as sin) has resulted in a sick church and an even sicker society.

Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil;
that put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Isa. 5:20

He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous,
Both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD. Proverbs 17:15

What was called sin just a few years ago is now acceptable and even honored. In years gone by, moral sins would never have been openly talked about. Now, not only do we talk about them with no shame or conviction, but we no longer call immorality sin. We say it’s okay or call it an “alternative lifestyle.” Examples: Fornication (any sex without marriage ), adultery (sex with other than your marriage partner), lesbianism, and homosexuality to name a few…

Now, it’s hard to find a couple (unmarried) on TV (or real life) who are not in fornication, or married who are not in adultery – It’s no big deal is the attitude. The same with lesbianism and homosexuality, more and more we are told we must accept it, if not embrace it.

Wow! Could I be accused of a hate crime for hating sin!!! Hating sin, NOT sinning people. If you were to get to know me, you would know that I have a real compassion for many in these categories, and have been there for them even when others weren’t, and I would venture to say I care more about them than the typical person in this world.

I do desire and pray that they would come out of their sin (which in most cases is a deception and/or a bondage to them), just like any one in any other sin. Jesus has better for them!!! In NO way do I look at them with anything but LOVE (God’s Love). I humbly write this devotion knowing – Except for the Grace of God so go I!

God’s Word is clear on the subject:

9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were (past tense) some of you (that includes ME). But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
I Cor. 6:9-11

This scripture gives quite a list here!!! Call it a “lifestyle OR alternative lifestyle” if you like, I believe the Bible calls it SIN.

There is the blood of Jesus that will cleanse ANY repentant sinner of a life that is displeasing to God, and bring FREEDOM from the power of sin, behaviors, habits, addictions, etc.

Highly recommended reading on addictions of any kind:
Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave : Finding Hope in the Power of the Gospel http://tiny.cc/v06j7

Closing passage:
8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit,according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world,and NOT ACCORDING TO CHRIST.
Colossians 2:8

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we praise you for your amazing grace, help us see MORALITY is possible in YOU, not in our strength. Lord may your Word in today’s devotion speak to hearts, and bring not condemnation, but conviction, followed by repentance, followed by change to all who read this today. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN!

To go along with this devotion please watch - Amazing Grace video approx. 2 minutes: http://www.godtube.com/featured/video/amazing-grace-0/inspiration

In His Service,

Pastor Jim Mazzulla (jim@biblefood.org)

http://www.biblefood.org/

http://www.facebook.com/jim.mazzulla