Tag Archives: Ephesians 4:14-15

But We’ve Always Done It??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #353

01 Sunday Jun 2025

Posted by in 'Come unto me, A Form of godliness?, Deniable Truth? Really?, Dignity, Discernment, Distractions, Do all things decently, Do You See What God Sees?, Faithful, Faithful Father--heavenly and earthly, Faithful Follower, Faithful God--Faithful me!, Faithfulness, Holiness, Holy, Holy Living, Holy Spirit, How much goodness is enough?, Modesty

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But We’ve Always Done It???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #353

“Charity suffereth long,

and is kind;

charity envieth not;

charity vaunteth not itself,

is not puffed up,

5 Doth not behave itself unseemly,

seeketh not her own,

is not easily provoked,

thinketh no evil;

6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity,

but rejoiceth in the truth;

7 Beareth all things,

believeth all things,

hopeth all things,

endureth all things.”  1 Corinthians 13:4-7

 From the 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians, Paul’s great treatise about love/charity, where we see not only the attributes of God’s love, but how God’s love is to be reflected in our lives.  Yet the thing I want us to consider today is the message that real love, God’s love, “Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth”!  We are to stand for truth in all our ways, yet living and speaking it with love, compassion, and integrity.

“That we henceforth be no more children,

tossed to and fro,

and carried about

with every wind of doctrine,

by the sleight of men,

and cunning craftiness,

whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

15 But speaking the truth in love,

may grow up into him in all things,

which is the head, even Christ:”  Ephesians 4:14-15

We must share truth, whether or not it is well received; our task is to preach, teach and live Jesus before a lost and dying world, even when we aren’t applauded or sometimes not even liked.  But we are to recognize that rejection isn’t necessarily failure, and there are those from whom we are to walk away when they don’t receive the message.  Jesus’ words not just mine.

“Give not that which is holy

unto the dogs,

neither cast ye your pearls

before swine,

lest they trample them under their feet,

and turn again and rend you.”  Matthew 7:6

“Behold,

I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves:

be ye therefore wise as serpents,

and harmless as doves.”  Matthew 10:16

Jesus never sugar-coated following Him, but He called us to be wise—to be aware that not everyone is nice—to be discreet and discerning in all of our dealings, for we live in a lost world where we are to be a light in the darkness, and Jesus even told us about the darkness, as we live in a day of darkness and evil on every hand; a day in which even those who claim to be believers in Jesus, think it’s okay to behave, dress, act, and entertain ourselves like the world does.  We have forgotten the admonitions to “be ye holy, for I am holy”! (See 1 Peter 1:16)

“I will therefore that men pray every where,

lifting up holy hands,

without wrath and doubting.

9 In like manner also,

that women adorn themselves in modest apparel,

with shamefacedness and sobriety;

not with broided hair,

or gold,

or pearls,

or costly array;

10 But (which becometh women professing godliness)

with good works.”  1 Timothy 2:8-10

Paul instructed Timothy to teach men and women to live what they profess, with prayer, holiness, and free from anger and doubts, that even our apparel should not be a distraction to others or from Jesus’ truth!  This seems to be a message that we have missed today, for there was a time when people knew the difference between modest and immodest—between tastefully modest and total exposure.  We are to be known for our good works and godly life not our skin show!  Just because it’s “fashionable” doesn’t mean it reflects godliness. Our speech is to reflect the God we serve not the gutter of this world.

“I have written unto you, fathers,

because ye have known him

that is from the beginning.

I have written unto you, young men,

because ye are strong,

and the word of God abideth in you,

and ye have overcome the wicked one.

15 Love not the world,

neither the things that are in the world.

If any man love the world,

the love of the Father is not in him.

16 For all that is in the world,

the lust of the flesh,

and the lust of the eyes,

and the pride of life,

is not of the Father,

but is of the world.

17 And the world passeth away,

and the lust thereof:

but he that doeth the will of God

 abideth for ever.”  1 John 2:14-17

James also had much to say about the world and its effect upon our lives, may we take heed to his warnings.  Just because everyone else is doing it (even those who claim the name of Jesus) I must know God’s Word and what it calls me to be, to do, in being a faithful witness of my Lord!

“Let no man say when he is tempted,

I am tempted of God:

for God cannot be tempted with evil,

neither tempteth he any man:

14 But every man is tempted,

when he is drawn away of his own lust,

and enticed.

15 Then when lust hath conceived,

it bringeth forth sin:

and sin, when it is finished,

bringeth forth death.

16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.

17 Every good gift

and every perfect gift

is from above,

and cometh down from the Father of lights,

with whom is no variableness,

neither shadow of turning.

18 Of his own will begat he us

with the word of truth,

that we should be a kind of firstfruits

of his creatures.

19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren,

let every man

be swift to hear,

slow to speak,

slow to wrath:

20 For the wrath of man

worketh not the righteousness of God.”  James 1:13-20

James chapter 4 is where the rubber meets the road (as we would say!). May The Word do its work to lead us to be conformed into the image of Jesus instead of the world.

“Ye adulterers and adulteresses,

know ye not that the friendship of the world

is enmity with God?

whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world

is the enemy of God.

5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain,

The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?

6 But he giveth more grace.

Wherefore he saith,

God resisteth the proud,

but giveth grace unto the humble.

7 Submit yourselves therefore to God.

Resist the devil,

and he will flee from you.

8 Draw nigh to God,

and he will draw nigh to you.

Cleanse your hands,

ye sinners;

and purify your hearts,

ye double minded.”   James 4:4-8

In closing one of my favorite passages of direction, may it speak to you today as The Word does its work!

“I beseech you therefore, brethren,

by the mercies of God,

that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice,

holy,

acceptable unto God,

which is your reasonable service.

2 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.

3 For I say, through the grace given unto me,

to every man that is among you,

not to think of himself more highly

than he ought to think;

but to think soberly,

according as God

hath dealt to every man

the measure of faith.”   Romans 12:1-3

Let’s be sure that we are being transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit and The Word, and not conformed to the world!

Amen and Amen!!!

Let’s Be Sharpeners??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #67

15 Wednesday Feb 2023

Posted by in A Father's Love, Bow Before our God, Choices And Consequences, Comfort, Commitment Or Convenience, Dependence, Faithful Follower, Faithfulness, Iron Sharpening Iron, Iron Sharpens Iron

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Let’s Be Sharpeners???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #67

I have an urgent word to share this morning, one that is heavy on my heart; especially as we look around us at all the chaos, sin, and confusion, even in the midst of God’s own.  So what do we do?  As I try to continually share here on Bible Ballistics, the answer is always the same–go to God’s Word!

“Therefore said he unto them,

The harvest truly is great,

but the labourers are few:

pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest,

that he would send forth labourers

into his harvest.

3 Go your ways:

behold, I send you forth

as lambs

among wolves.”  Luke 10:2-3

Jesus was sending out workers into the field to prepare the way for Him to follow, and that is what we must understand today!  I can’t–You can’t–the Preacher can’t–the Missionary can’t–the Evangelist can’t do GOD’s work.  We can’t save anyone–but we can share The Word as we go, with our “feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace…” (See Ephesians 6:10-19)!  It is our job to go, to share as we are called, led, and directed by the Holy Spirit, with a heart broken for the lost and dying, but not going in our own strength, but HIS!

How?  I can only share with you the things that God says in HIS Word and pray that we can yield to our Lord and Master to go where HE leads, do what HE asks, share as HE provides us opportunities, and speak HIS Word in power, love, and truth.

“I am the vine,

ye are the branches:

He that abideth in me,

and I in him,

the same bringeth forth much fruit:

for without me ye can do nothing.”  John 15:5

James so aptly reminds us of our focus and our strength!

“Submit yourselves therefore

to God.

Resist the devil,

and he will flee from you.

8 Draw nigh to God,

and he will draw nigh to you.

Cleanse your hands,

ye sinners;

and purify your hearts,

ye double minded.”  James 4:7-8

The Proverbs point us to not try to do it alone–neither without God nor without one another–we are a body (supposed to be!)!

“Iron sharpeneth iron;

so a man sharpeneth the countenance

of his friend.”  Proverbs 27:17

Dear Paul gives us the advice about the armor of God…

“Finally, my brethren,

be strong in the Lord,

and in the power of his might.

11 Put on the whole armour of God,

that ye may be able to stand against

the wiles of the devil.”  Ephesians 6:10-11

“That we henceforth be no more children,

tossed to and fro,

and carried about

with every wind of doctrine,

by the sleight of men,

and cunning craftiness,

whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

15 But speaking the truth in love,

may grow up into him in all things,

which is the head,

even Christ:”   Ephesians 4:14-15

I pray that God’s Word will encourage you, guide your steps and comfort your heart through the drains of living!  My love and prayers are lifted up for you!

Amen and Amen!!!

What Righteousness??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 18

27 Sunday Mar 2022

Posted by in All About Jesus!, Changed Lives, Justified by Jesus, Righteousness, Unrighteous will not inherit

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 18 No. 18      What Righteousness???

 

Can we be righteous?  How can one be righteous?  We must consider scripture to answer both of these questions, and to do that we must consider what is “un”righteousness?

“Know ye not

that the unrighteous shall not inherit

the kingdom of God?

Be not deceived:

neither fornicators,

nor idolaters,

nor adulterers,

nor effeminate,

nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

10 Nor thieves,

nor covetous,

nor drunkards,

nor revilers,

nor extortioners,

shall inherit the kingdom of God.

11 And such were some of you:

but ye are washed,

but ye are sanctified,

but ye are justified

in the name of the Lord Jesus,

and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11

Romans chapter 1 deals intently with this subject as well, reminding us that (in Blanche’s paraphrase) unrighteousness is contagious.

“And even as they did not like to retain God

in their knowledge,

God gave them over

to a reprobate mind,

to do those things

which are not convenient;

29 Being filled with all

unrighteousness,

fornication,

wickedness,

covetousness,

maliciousness;

full of envy,

murder,

debate,

deceit,

malignity;

whisperers,

30 Backbiters,

haters of God,

despiteful,

proud,

boasters,

inventors of evil things,

disobedient to parents,

31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers,

without natural affection,

implacable,

unmerciful:

32 Who knowing the judgment of God,

that they which commit such things

are worthy of death,

not only do the same,

but have pleasure in them

that do them.”  Romans 1:28-32

For you see, even as Paul also mentions in the book of Romans, we are all sinners/unrighteous:

“For all have sinned,

and come short

of the glory of God;”  Romans 3:23

“As it is written,

There is none righteous,

no, not one:

11 There is none that understandeth,

there is none that seeketh after God.

12 They are all gone out of the way,

they are together become unprofitable;

there is none that doeth good,

no, not one.”  Romans 3:10-12

“But now being made free from sin,

and become servants to God,

ye have your fruit

unto holiness,

and the end everlasting life.

23 For the wages of sin

is death;

but the gift of God

is eternal life

through Jesus Christ our Lord.”   Romans 6:22-23

Even as Isaiah said long before the Apostles:

“All we like sheep

have gone astray;

we have turned every one

to his own way;

and the LORD hath laid on him

the iniquity of us all.”  Isaiah 53:6

So, what does all of this have to do with righteousness?  The message is clear– sin IS the issue—we have it, yet we can’t fix it, for only Jesus can provide the “cure”; the cure is HIS blood which HE shed at Calvary for our SIN!  No matter what the world says, no matter how much those around us deny the reality of sin; no matter how popular sin becomes; no matter how much we paint it, fluff it up, disguise it, rename it, or justify it—the rules haven’t changed, for God says that “the wages of sin IS death”!

“For I have not shunned to declare unto you

all the counsel of God.

28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves,

and to all the flock,

over the which the Holy Ghost

hath made you overseers,

to feed the church of God,

which he hath purchased

with his own blood.”  Acts 20:28

“But if we walk in the light,

as he is in the light,

we have fellowship

one with another,

and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son

cleanseth us from all sin.

8 If we say that we have no sin,

we deceive ourselves,

and the truth

is not in us.”  1 John 1:7-8

Without Jesus we have no hope; but with, in, and through Jesus we can have eternal life.  Eternal life that relieves us of the penalty and condemnation of sin (hell), even as Jesus Himself said!

“And as Moses

lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,

even so must

the Son of man be lifted up:

15 That whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have eternal life.

(for=Because– my commentary)

16 For God so loved the world,

that he gave

his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have everlasting life.

17 For God sent not his Son

into the world

to condemn the world;

but that the world through him

might be saved.

18 He that believeth on him

is not condemned:

but he that believeth not

is condemned already,

because he hath not believed

in the name of the only begotten

Son of God.

19 And this is the condemnation,

that light is come into the world,

and men loved darkness

rather than light,

because their deeds

were evil.”  John 3:14-19

If you remember the story from Numbers, Moses ‘lifted up’ the brazen serpent and whoever looked unto it for healing lived—so Jesus would be ‘lifted up’(crucified for our sin).  So, when we choose to follow Him, and receive the salvation that HIS death, burial, and resurrection provides, we can walk in the light “as he is in the light”!  Just as Paul gave the Corinthians a list of sins (inclusive but not exhaustive) in contrast to what they now had become (and we can be) through Jesus’ righteousness:

 “…such were some of you:

but ye are washed,

but ye are sanctified,

but ye are justified

in the name of the Lord Jesus”

All due to the exchange that God makes when we come to Jesus—the work of salvation that only God can accomplish.

“Therefore

if any man be in Christ,

he is a new creature:

old things are passed away;

behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God,

who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ,

and hath given to us the ministry

of reconciliation;

19 To wit,

that God was in Christ,

reconciling the world unto himself,

not imputing their trespasses

unto them;

and hath committed unto us

the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ,

as though God did beseech you by us:

we pray you in Christ’s stead,

be ye reconciled to God.

21 For he hath made him

to be sin for us,

who knew no sin;

that we might be made

the righteousness of God

in him.”  2 Corinthians 5:17-21

I said earlier that I believe that “sin” is contagious, and I think scripture proves this out, both in Paul’s writings as well as throughout the Proverbs and Psalms. We must be careful of the things and people that we allow to have influence in our lives.  As the author of Proverbs warns:

“Keep thy heart

with all diligence;

for out of it

are the issues of life.”  Proverbs 4:23

And just one from the Psalmist:

“Search me, O God,

and know my heart:

try me, and know my thoughts:

24 And see if there be any wicked way in me,

and lead me

in the way everlasting.”  Psalm 139:23-24

In closing, a few words of warning from the Apostle Paul, that we ought to take to heart in our own lives and the lives of our little ones.  You can make a difference in the life of a child, but you must choose to be involved, and exercise parental control, by being a real example of “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (See Colossians 1:27).   Choose wisely, righteous, or unrighteous—there is a test?

“Be not deceived:

evil communications

corrupt good manners.”  1 Corinthians 15:33

“That we henceforth be no more children,

tossed to and fro,

and carried about

with every wind of doctrine,

by the sleight of men,

and cunning craftiness,

whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

15 But speaking the truth in love,

may grow up into him in all things,

which is the head, even Christ:”   Ephesians 4:14-15

Amen and Amen!!!

Close But Yet So Far??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #776

03 Thursday Feb 2022

Posted by in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, All Sufficient God!, Obedience, Obedient or NOT?, Only Jesus, Only One Way, Samuel & Eli, The Word, The Word Or The World?, True Knowledge, Trusting God

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #776   Close But Yet So Far???

 

We talked recently about recognizing God’s truth, and I’d like us to revisit that thought with a bit of a twist.

“Have ye not known?

have ye not heard?

hath it not been told you

from the beginning?

 have ye not understood

from the foundations of the earth?”   Isaiah 40:21

Isaiah called his people to examine themselves and see what they had done with the truths of God.  That question is still pertinent for us today, in fact possibly even more urgent than it was back then, for we have spent so much time diminishing the import of The Word of God, perverting what God has said, and changing the truth for lies of convenience.  In fact, we have done the same thing that Israel had done during Isaiah’s day.

“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!

21 Woe unto them

that are wise

 in their own eyes,

and prudent

in their own sight!

22 Woe unto them

that are mighty

to drink wine,

and men of strength

to mingle strong drink:

23 Which justify the wicked

for reward,

and take away the righteousness

of the righteous from him!”   Isaiah 5:20-23

Woe is a strong word from God, and we need to be paying attention, whether we are genuine believers or those who claim the name of One they don’t know.  We find one of the most important warnings to both in the story of Samuel and Eli (the high priest).  If you remember, Samuel was the young son of answered prayer that Hannah received from God. She then gave him back to God for HIS service; when he was weaned, she took him to Eli as a servant of the tabernacle (the temple wasn’t built at the time)! Without listing all of the scriptures in this story, let’s peruse some of the highlights and see the danger of not walking “close” to our Lord, and thinking disobedience and neglect are OK.

“Now Hannah,

she spake in her heart; only her lips moved,

but her voice was not heard:

therefore Eli thought she had been drunken.

14 And Eli said unto her,

How long wilt thou be drunken?

put away thy wine from thee.”   1 Samuel 1:13-14

This portion of the story is important to understand the outcome; Eli rebuked Hannah because he thought she was ‘drunk’, yet she was only deeply in tune with God in prayer for a child.  Eli missed what was going on, and Hannah had to correct him, and then he blessed her for her obvious devotion to seek God for her needs.  God did answer her prayer and when the time came, she returned the child Samuel to serve God for a lifetime. It would seem that Eli judged her by the standard of his sons.  In time God spoke to Samuel and called him into his service with a message of “woe” to Eli, and the reason makes what happened with Hannah, most ironic, puzzling, and very insightful as a lesson we should learn from.

“And she said,

Oh my lord,

as thy soul liveth, my lord,

 I am the woman that stood by thee here,

praying unto the LORD.

27 For this child I prayed;

and the LORD hath given me my petition

which I asked of him:

28 Therefore also

I have lent him to the LORD;

as long as he liveth

he shall be lent to the LORD.

And he worshipped the LORD there.”  1 Samuel 1:26-28

Hannah came to worship, as Samuel began his service to God, and when God called him personally, he replied in obedience to a hard task.  Yet Eli, on the other hand, was unwilling to correct his sons, who were reprobate before God, and he knew what they were doing!

“Now Eli was very old,

and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel;

and how they lay with the women that

assembled at the door of the

tabernacle of the congregation

23 And he said unto them,

Why do ye such things?

for I hear of your evil dealings

by all this people.

24 Nay, my sons;

 for it is no good report that I hear:

ye make the LORD’S people

to transgress.

25 If one man sin against another,

the judge shall judge him:

but if a man sin against the LORD,

who shall intreat for him?

Notwithstanding they hearkened not

unto the voice of their father,

because the LORD would slay them.

26 And the child Samuel grew on,

and was in favour both with the LORD,

and also with men.”  1 Samuel 2:22-26

Eli understood the principles of ‘obedient leadership’ but apparently not enough to deal with his own sons’ immoral and wicked behavior.  The New Testament confirms the call of obedience for all.

“And that servant,

which knew his lord’s will,

and prepared not himself,

neither did according to his will,

shall be beaten with many stripes.

48 But he that knew not,

and did commit things worthy of stripes,

shall be beaten with few stripes.

For unto whomsoever much is given,

of him shall be much required:

and to whom men have committed much,

of him they will ask the more.

49 I am come to send fire on the earth;

and what will I,

if it be already kindled?”  Luke 12:47-49

“My brethren,

be not many masters,

knowing that we shall receive

the greater condemnation.”   James 3:1

Eli had been given the title, the privilege, and the responsibility for the spiritual welfare of Israel, yet he didn’t even take care of the spiritual welfare of his own family.  Now, don’t misunderstand—we can instruct, train, and set a good example before our children and family, but as adults, each person is responsible for his/her own choices.  In fact, scripture says even children are accountable.

“Even a child is known by his doings,

whether his work be pure,

and whether it be right.”  Proverbs 20:11

But Eli was not just a parent, he was the high priest, and his sons were also priests by Gods’ call to the sons of Aaron, as spiritual leaders to Israel.  But Eli apparently did not take his responsibility seriously enough, and was allowing his sons to behave immorally, with complete disregard to the import of God’s instructions for the sacrificial system and its use in building a relationship to God, and yet he did nothing!  God’s Word settles it!

“So then every one of us

shall give account

of himself to God.”  Romans 14:12

God gave Samuel a heavy load for his first commission, and he proved faithful, for God had already been preparing Eli for the coming accounting!

“Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith,

I said indeed that thy house,

and the house of thy father,

should walk before me for ever:

but now the LORD saith,

Be it far from me;

for them that honour me

I will honour,

and they that despise me

shall be lightly esteemed.

31 Behold, the days come,

that I will cut off thine arm,

and the arm of thy father’s house,

that there shall not be an old man

in thine house.

32 And thou shalt see an enemy

in my habitation,

in all the wealth

which God shall give Israel:

and there shall not be an old man

in thine house for ever.

33 And the man of thine,

whom I shall not cut off from mine altar,

shall be to consume thine eyes,

and to grieve thine heart:

and all the increase of thine house

shall die in the flower of their age.

34 And this shall be a sign unto thee,

that shall come upon thy two sons,

on Hophni and Phinehas;

in one day they shall die

both of them.

35 And I will raise me up a faithful priest,

that shall do according to that

which is in mine heart

and in my mind:

and I will build him a sure house;

and he shall walk before mine anointed

for ever.”  1 Samuel 2:30-35

A previous prophet gave a warning to Eli, then God sent Samuel—I think not only for Eli, but for Samuel to know that he was being called by God to lead Israel back to Himself, to restore truth and God’s presence before them.

“Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD,

neither was the word of the LORD

yet revealed unto him…

…..8 And the LORD called Samuel

again the third time.

 And he arose and went to Eli,

 and said, Here am I;

for thou didst call me.

And Eli perceived that the LORD

 had called the child.

9 Therefore Eli said unto Samuel,

Go, lie down:

and it shall be,

if he call thee,

that thou shalt say,

Speak, LORD;

for thy servant heareth.

So Samuel went and lay down in his place.

10 And the LORD came, and stood, and called

as at other times,

Samuel, Samuel.

Then Samuel answered,

Speak; for thy servant heareth.

11 And the LORD said to Samuel,

Behold, I will do a thing in Israel,

at which both the ears

of every one that heareth it

shall tingle.

12 In that day

I will perform against Eli all things

which I have spoken

concerning his house:

when I begin,

I will also make an end.

13 For I have told him

that I will judge his house for ever

for the iniquity which he knoweth;

because his sons

made themselves vile,

and he restrained them not.

14 And therefore I have sworn

unto the house of Eli,

that the iniquity of Eli’s house

shall not be purged

with sacrifice

nor offering

 for ever.”   1 Samuel 3:8-14

What a heavy load for a young boy, but God reminds us of the sufficiency of HIS provision.

“I know both how to be abased,

and I know how to abound:

every where

 and in all things

I am instructed both to be full

and to be hungry,

 both to abound

and to suffer need.

13 I can do all things

through Christ

which strengtheneth me.”   Philippians 4:12-13

While Samuel’s task was a difficult one, he pressed on with respect for Eli, and regard for the message of God.  We can learn a lot from these two men of God—one drew near to God as He heard His voice—the other had allowed his own permissiveness toward his children to cause him to fail his God!  Yet, I do believe God allowed him to ‘redeem’ some of the time he had wasted, to have a second chance with Samuel—a chance to make a difference in this young boy’s life—and it would seem that he used it wisely and set an example of humble submission to the judgment of God!  How about you and me?  How do we respond to the call of God, and/or his judgment and discipline?  Samuel revealed the truth of God to Eli—I believe with a broken heart, but a humble, submissive heart that spoke the truth in love!

“And Samuel told him every whit,

 and hid nothing from him.

And he said,

It is the LORD:

let him do what seemeth him good.

19 And Samuel grew,

and the LORD was with him,

and did let none of his words

fall to the ground.

20 And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba

knew that Samuel was established

to be a prophet of the LORD.

21 And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh:

for the LORD revealed himself to Samuel

in Shiloh

by the word of the LORD.”   I Samuel 4:18-21

So, my question for each of us today is, are we so compromised that we have missed the task that Jesus has called us to, or are you one who talks about the master but doesn’t know HIM personally?  The choice is yours, and truly there is a test.  Are you walking in God’s “way”—Jesus (See John 14:6)?  Or are you choosing to go your own way as Eli’s sons did.  Or maybe you’re a parent who has failed to correct and lead your children to know and do God’s truth. There is a word for each of us if we will but heed the message God is speaking to our hearts.

“There is a way that seemeth right unto a man,

but the end thereof

are the ways of death.”  Proverbs 16:25

“So then every one of us shall give account

of himself to God.”  Romans 14:12

Will your account be that of one drawn close to the Father, or have you walked so far away that you have lost sight of God and His truth, or never really known HIM?  I join with Joshua even today!  How about you?

“And if it seem evil unto you

to serve the LORD,

choose you this day

whom ye will serve;

whether the gods

which your fathers served

that were on the other side of the flood,

or the gods of the Amorites,

 in whose land ye dwell:

but as for me and my house,

 we will serve the LORD.”  Joshua 24:15

Paul sums it up concisely:

“That we henceforth be no more children,

tossed to and fro,

and carried about

with every wind of doctrine,

by the sleight of men,

and cunning craftiness,

whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

15 But speaking the truth in love,

may grow up into him in all things,

which is the head, even Christ:”   Ephesians 4:14-15

Amen and Amen!!!

Basics Of Bible Study??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 13 No. 09

14 Sunday Apr 2019

Posted by in Abundant Life In Jesus, Bibe Study, Study to Show Yourself Approved Unto God

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 13 No.09 Basics Of Bible Study???

 

While this may seem a little ominous, it’s really quite simple, and I hope to encourage us all to “dig in” more diligently!  First of all, we are called to study The Word, and we can rest assured of its veracity (truth)!

“Study

to shew thyself approved

unto God,

a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,

rightly dividing

the word of truth.

16 But shun

profane

and vain babblings:

for they will increase

unto more ungodliness.”    2 Timothy 2:15-16

Paul told Timothy, that he was to “study”—dig in—to show himself as a proven servant of God—a workman, who has no need for shame before his God, or men.  And while this is a familiar verse, I want us to catch the, often missed, verse that follows.  While we are to draw near to God, there are some things that we are to not only, avoid, but we are to “shun” some completely—and things that are very current.  Paul was instructing this young preacher to avoid things that will “increase unto more ungodliness”!

I find it most curious that Paul realized something that many today have forgotten or overlooked; and while many seem to think that the profane is alright, it is most harmful!

Profane: characterized by irreverence or contempt for God or sacred principles or things….to defile; debase; employ basely or unworthily….to treat with irreverence or contempt…

And without even trying, I believe most of us could think of venues in our culture that often tend to be “profane and vain babblings”!  And while my focus in this article isn’t to attack others, it is to call us to consider what we are willing to allow into our lives; and not only allow into our lives, but in many cases to influence our choices.  God, on the other hand, has called us to dig into His Word to know Him and reflect it before the world—not be influenced by the profane!

“Trust in the LORD

with all thine heart;

and lean not

unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways

acknowledge him,

and he shall direct thy paths.

7 Be not wise

in thine own eyes:

fear the LORD,

and depart from evil.

8 It shall be health to thy navel,

and marrow to thy bones.”    Proverbs 3:5-8

Learning to walk with God is the greatest adventure that we can experience.  And He has given us the guide that we need—HIS Word!  Not only does God assure us of His care in the Proverbs, but He also gives us assurance that HIS Word is dependable for all our needs, for it is all inspired by GOD.

“All scripture

is given by inspiration

of God,

and is profitable

for doctrine,

for reproof,

for correction,

for instruction

in righteousness:

17 That the man of God

may be perfect,

throughly furnished

unto all good works.”  2 Timothy 3:16-17

So, what does all this have to do with Bible study?  It is the basis of our total dependence upon God and His ways!

“Order my steps

in thy word:

and let not any iniquity

have dominion over me.”  Psalm 119:133

God wants to unveil His way for us if we will but yield to His Spirit and dive into His Word as the guide for our lives.

“How sweet are thy words

unto my taste!

yea, sweeter than honey

to my mouth!

104 Through thy precepts

I get understanding:

therefore

I hate every false way.

105 Thy word is a lamp

unto my feet,

and a light

unto my path.”   Psalm 119:103-105

Oh, that we can learn to feast on The Word/Words of God and discern our choices according to it!  And when we feast on God’s Word, we must learn, develop and practice good observation skills. There are a few things that will help each of us hone these skills.  Firstly, we must observe the text with integrity, by letting the word say what it says, and by being willing to order “our steps” by it!

“But they have not all obeyed

the gospel.

For Esaias saith,

Lord, who hath believed our report?

17 So then faith

cometh by hearing,

and hearing

by the word of God.

18 But I say,

Have they not heard?

Yes verily,

their sound went

into all the earth,

and their words

unto the ends of the world.”    Romans 10:16-18

It is God’s Word that brings the “gospel” to us, and it is hearing the truth of God’s ways and laws that bring us to see our own sin.  And until we see our sin, we will see no need for a Savior—Jesus!  That is the truth of God’s Word, and without it we have no hope!  But when we seek to know God’s truth, He will always lead us to the cross.

“In whom ye also trusted,

after that ye heard

the word of truth,

the gospel of your salvation:

in whom also after that ye believed,

ye were sealed

with that holy Spirit of promise,”    Ephesians 1:13

As we study and observe the text, we must honor its context by asking the 5 W’s and the H; by asking, who said it, why, when, and to whom;  always seeking to know what it truly says, that we may be able to interpret what it means.  To do this accurately, we must understand that scripture isn’t a regular book—it is a Spirit-written message from God to His own!  To understand it fully, we have to depend on the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide us into truth.

“But as it is written,

Eye hath not seen,

nor ear heard,

neither have entered into the heart of man,

the things which God hath prepared

for them that love him.

10 But God hath revealed them

unto us

by his Spirit:

for the Spirit searcheth all things,

yea, the deep things of God.

11 For what man knoweth the things of a man,

save the spirit of man which is in him?

even so the things of God knoweth no man,

but the Spirit of God.

12 Now we have received,

not the spirit of the world,

but the spirit

which is of God;

that we might know

the things that are freely given

to us

of God.

13 Which things also we speak,

not in the words

which man’s wisdom teacheth,

but which the Holy Ghost teacheth;

comparing spiritual things

with spiritual.

14 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.

15 But he that is spiritual

judgeth all things,

yet he himself is judged of no man.

16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord,

that he may instruct him?

But we have the mind of Christ.”     1 Corinthians 2:9-16

Just as we rely upon the Spirit of God to bring us to salvation, we must rely upon Him to also bring us to understand and be able to interpret The Word!  For even if we learn to make perfect observations, and accurate interpretations, if we fail to apply it, we have missed the point.

“The steps of a good man

are ordered by the LORD:

and he delighteth in his way.

24 Though he fall,

he shall not be utterly cast down:

for the LORD upholdeth him

with his hand.”   Psalm 37:23-24

As we learn to depend upon The Lord in all things, He will lead us into all truth, by the work of His Holy Spirit.  We can lean on Him and depend upon Him to direct our steps as we seek to know God’s truth!

“Nevertheless I tell you the truth;

It is expedient for you

that I go away:

for if I go not away,

the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart,

I will send him

unto you.

8 And when he is come,

he will reprove the world of sin,

and of righteousness,

and of judgment:

9 Of sin,

because they believe not on me;

10 Of righteousness,

because I go to my Father,

and ye see me no more;

11 Of judgment,

because the prince of this world

is judged.

12 I have yet many things to say unto you,

but ye cannot bear them now.

13 Howbeit when he,

the Spirit of truth,

is come,

he will guide you into all truth:

for he shall not speak

of himself;

but whatsoever

he shall hear,

that shall he speak:

and he will shew you

things to come.

14 He shall glorify me:

for he shall receive of mine,

and shall shew it unto you.

15 All things that the Father hath

are mine:

therefore said I,

that he shall take of mine,

and shall shew it

unto you.”   John 16:7-15

I pray that you will find these things helpful as you pursue God through His Word! May HE bless you as you study!

And in closing, a few words to encourage our hearts in the pursuit of God and His Word:

“That we henceforth

be no more children,

tossed to and fro,

and carried about

with every wind of doctrine,

by the sleight of men,

and cunning craftiness,

whereby they lie in wait

to deceive;

15 But speaking the truth in love,

may grow up into him

in all things,

 which is the head,

even Christ:”   Ephesians 4:14-15

Don’t be deceived by not knowing truth, as Jesus said:

“And ye shall know the truth,

and the truth shall make you free.”    John 8:32

By depending on HIS Spirit:

“And I will pray the Father,

and he shall give you another Comforter,

that he may abide with you for ever;

17 Even the Spirit of truth;

whom the world cannot receive,

because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him:

but ye know him;

for he dwelleth with you,

and shall be in you.”  John 14:16-17 Amen!