Leviticus 19:23-25 is one of those Old Testament passages that seems to have little application to New Testament Christians. As the children of Israel enter the land of Canaan, God tells them that their crops for three years. Then, on the fourth year, all fruit of the land is to be given unto Jehovah. The fifth year marks the first time the Israelites would be able to eat of these crops.

Being a farmer takes a certain amount of vision, knowing where to plant. Labor is involved, and this profession takes serious commitment. It is not an easy profession in modern times, and it was that much more difficult in ancient times. It was not something easily entered into, but it was not something from which to just walk away. Being a Christian is very similar.

Investing in the Church

As Christians, we must have vision and a focus. In Proverbs 29:18, Solomon says that where there is no vision, there is no sense of direction. Proverbs 17:24 speaks of the wise having focus, but the eyes of a fool are unfocused. Jesus, in Matthew 9:36-38, looks at the multitudes as sheep without a shepherd. These people don’t know where they were going or how to get there. They have no vision or focus. Proverbs 23:7 tells us that our hearts reflect our true selves. What vision for our congregation do we have? What do we focus on? We can dwell on negativity and failure, or we can focus on a successful vision for the Lord’s church.

Labor is necessary in making a congregation work. John 4:35-38 records Jesus speaking to His disciples, telling them to look up and see the work that needs to be done. He says the one that works receives wages and life. It is a work that others have begun that will be picked up by those who come after. In Matthew 9:37-38, Jesus speaks of too few laborers to do the work and that His followers should pray for more workers. I Corinthians 3:6 has Paul describing the work he and Apollos have done with the Corinth church, and verses 11-15 describe a testing of our efforts, revealing how hard we have labored for the Lord. I Corinthians 15:58 reminds us that our steadfast labor for the Lord is not in vain.

Finally, making a church grow takes commitment. Proverbs 20:4 tells of one who will not plow in the proper season, leading to his begging when harvest comes. In Luke 9:62, Jesus warns us not to commit to the Lord while looking back at what we leave behind, and returning to I Corinthians 3, Paul and Apollos demonstrate a great commitment in their work with the Corinth church. In this commitment, consider our obligation to each other. In 1519, Hernando Cortez sank his ships when they arrived in the New World. He motivated his 500-600 men to press forward because there was no going back. We should approach our service to God with a similar attitude.

Conclusion

What is our vision and focus as a congregation? What kind of work are we willing to do, and what kind of commitment will we exhibit? Will we be farmers that walk away because progress is too hard? Will we try to stay as uninvolved as possible, waiting for and expecting failure? If God asked for a five year commitment from those working in his physical kingdom, how much more does He expect from those of us working in His spiritual kingdom?

By Tim Smelser

Tags: attitude, church, growth

In the first couple of verses of I Timothy 4, Paul warns the young preacher that hypocrisy and falsehood will begin to lead people away from the gospel. Keeping this in mind, Ephesians 4:11-14 speaks of the need for teachers and leaders who will help the church stand against the dangers of false teachings. He refers to the winds of doctrine tossing congregations about as boats in a storm. Spiritually, we can easily be blown off course if we are not anchored in God’s truth.

In I Timothy 4, Paul cites these false doctrine as coming from men who are crafty, cunning, who have false motives. Certainly, some teach falsely with sincerity and conviction as well, and we should work to avoid falling into falsehoods regardless of sincerity. We should be prepared to identify and be wary of potential sources for error.

Sources of Wind

People we hold in high esteem can lead us astray. We hold to our commentaries, favorite preachers, favorite teachers, and their ideas and opinions carry weight. However, none of these individuals are inspired. I might have known a preacher my whole life, but long association does not equate infallibility. I Corinthians 1:12 addresses this mindset of placing too much authority and faith in the words of an individual, and 2:5 of the same book reminds us to place our faith in God over men.

Closely related to those we hold in esteem, we can allow friends and peers to influence us overmuch. I Kings 12 records Rehoboam taking counsel with the elders who had advised Solomon as well as with his peers regarding how to win the respect and service of the people. Rehoboam prefers the unwise advice of his peers, advice that leads to the citizens rebelling against him. Also, Pilate, in Mark 15:15, takes action to pacify the crowds who appeal to his political connections. He acts against his conscience to make others happy. We might know what is right, but our friends and peers might cause us to waver.

Finally, we can cause ourselves to be tossed about. We might hold to stubbornness. We might hold to tradition. We can stand in our own way to progress. Naaman, in II Kings 5, gets in his own way when the prophet’s instructions are not what he expects. He visits Elisha to be healed, expecting a great miracle (verse 11), but is sent away to go wash himself in the Jordan River. Initially, he is resistant to follow Elisha’s instructions solely because it is not what he wants. “I think” can too often get in our way.

Anchoring Ourselves

We should expect scriptural basis for what we practice and teach. I Peter 4:11 calls us to appeal to God’s authority in our teachings and ministering. Jesus, while tempted in the wilderness, always returned to scripture when answering Satan.

Ephesians 4:13 speaks of having unity in faith, knowledge of Jesus, spiritual maturity, and a love for truth. A lack of these qualities opens us up to being tossed about by false doctrine, but each of these is correctable. In faith and in doctrine, we should be respecting God’s word, and holding it as our own standard – recognizing that our opinions can be wrong. We should be spending more time in God’s word, studying and continually growing in knowledge. Sometimes, we also have to accept that it’s time to grow up, growing in our conduct, in our involvement, in our commitment. John 17:17 records Jesus asking God to sanctify His followers in God’s truth, and Psalm 119 focuses in the importance of God’s law, and verse 105 refers to that law as a light to guide our steps.

Troubling influences can come from without and within. As we seek to grow spiritually and recognize from where storms can come, we can grow up into Christians anchored in truth, able to withstand the influences of false doctrine.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: doctrine, growth, scripturality

As we study the writings of the New Testament, we have to remember that Paul, Peter, and others are writing generically to an abstract mass of people. They are writing to specific congregation with specific strengths and needs, trying to build up and encourage these brothers and sisters as best they can. In Luke 22:31-32, Jesus singles Peter out, requesting him to make it a point of his life to strengthen other Christians, and, in Ephesians 4:12, Paul states that the purpose of working in the church is to the purpose of building up and strengthening its members.

How Can We Strengthen and Equip Each Other?

We grow through study. In Acts 18:24-26, we are introduced to an individual named Apollos who is described as eloquent and knowledgeable in God’s word, but he needs more. He is still missing some information, and Aquila and Priscilla provide him with more instruction. When discussing the Bible, both teacher and student are encouraged and built up. This is not an activity limited to designated preachers during designated times of worship. Anyone can participate in this anywhere and anyplace.

Hebrews 5:12-14 serves as a warning against spiritual immaturity, but it also speaks of a need for those willing to teach. He encourages them to build each other up and to grow more mature through study. Each day we fail to grow stronger, we weaken, and we should be concerned for each other’s and our own spiritual well being. If God’s word is not in our hearts, His spirit cannot guide our lives.

We Strengthen Through Our Example. In I Timothy 4:12, Paul encourages Timothy to be an example to others around him. When we see someone we respect or who may be having difficulties provide an example of faith, we are strengthened. We are all in a position to be a role model to someone. Younger Christians and older Christians alike can be examples for each other, and we should be humble and patient enough to receive the instruction implicit in another’s example.

We should respect what experiences others can provide. In I Kings 12, Rehoboam rejects the advice of his elders and ends up splitting the kingdom. In Romans 12:1-2 encourages us to check ourselves, trying to see ourselves as others and God does. Do I portray someone concerned with spiritually matters, or am I still an example of worldliness?

We should help each other get equipped. In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul begins to describe an armor we are to wear as Christians that allows us to stand against those temptations and trials that may cause us to fall. Full preparation brings courage and hope, and we need help to fully equip ourselves. In Hebrews 6:17-20, the author writes of our anchor, hour hope, and our encouragement in God’s promises. In this, we push each other towards the goal, looking out for one another. Sometimes we simply need to remind ourselves that our hope comes from the goodness of God, and we are strongest when we are not alone.

Conclusion

We are strongest when we are helping each other, when we are being the example we should be, and when we study God’s word and let it guide us. As Christians, we should be committed to strengthening and helping each other reach our goal, maintain our hope, and stay on the path guiding us to Heaven. We cannot make it alone. Alone we are unanchored, tossed about by the troubles of this world, but we can help each other and rely on our Lord as we continue on that road.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: growth, study, our example, one another

Success in any project is dependent upon knowledge of the situation, a proper attitude, and a willingness to do what is necessary. These three things are evident in the establishment of the church in Acts 2. Here, a large crowd is gathered together who had a knowledge of God. They had gathered to observe a religious feast, and Peter and the other apostles came with more complete knowledge. They what they know, and many turned to Christ as a result of the apostles’ actions and Peter’s teaching.

Our Application

Gaining Knowledge. In our attempts to teach and live God’s word, we need to have a knowledge of that word. However, we might still have several questions regarding what is revealed. Why has God done things the way He has? Could He not have made things easier, more obvious? Like those people gathered in the book of Acts, we have some knowledge. Also, like those people, we should be able to see a bigger picture than simply what God does for us. Rather, He wants us to be like Him so we can be with Him.

In Titus 1:2-3, Paul speaks of God's eternal plan, and Ephesians 3:11 speaks of an eternal purpose. God’s desire for us to be like Him and with Him is not a new thing. This has been God’s desire since the beginning. At creation, God gave us a part of Himself, and, in the Garden, Adam and Eve were with God, and they were like Him in that they were innocent and sinless. God’s plan goes beyond simple forgiveness. It restores our purity and holiness that sin steals away.

We have to have a knowledge of this situation to help us understand Christ’s sacrifice, and we need to understand and appreciate our own guilt in sin. Romans 1:18 speaks of God’s anger with ungodliness and unrighteousness. Romans 6:23 plainly states that death is a consequence of sin. One sin separates us from God and put us in need of redemption and reconciliation. As an offering for those sins, Christ went to the cross, meeting the demands of justice, putting Himself in our place.

A Correct Attitude. We have to view these facts as something other than cold and hard. Back in Acts 2, Peter tells the crowd to act upon their knowledge – to repent and be baptized. This is not something to take under advisement or to consider complacently. Knowledge demands obedience if our attitude is correct. Hosea 6:6 records God’s desire for goodness, mercy, and knowledge over rote ritual. Repentance is more than saying, “I’m sorry.” Faith is more than saying, “I believe.” Obedience is more than simply showing up on Sunday, and baptism is more than getting wet. It is a reenactment of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. My attitude should be one of humility, and its nat an easy quality to take on.

We may know what Jesus has done for us, but we will be unwilling to submit to His word unless we can take that message to heart. What is my attitude in my treatments of others, in my conduct in the workplace, in my priorities, in how I treat my brothers and sisters? Do I behave how I want or how He wants? DO I view His word as commands or as suggestions?

Willing Involvement. Gaining a correct attitude will spur me to action. In Acts 2:38-39, Peter makes it clear that God's promises are for those who are listening to him. When he told them what they should do, Peter claims this promise is for them and for anyone who will hear the message. Romans 8:24 speaks of hope we have when we are saved, when we are obedient to God’s word. The promises we have give us that hope, and hope serves as a motivation to our Christian lives.

I Peter 3:15 tells us to always be ready to speak about that hope we have, but, wIthout involvement, no one will see my hope. Hebrews 6:17-20 makes it clear that God keeps His promises, and He does not lie. We can be confident in the promises of our God, and our attitude and hope gives us the motivation to be as involved as we should be.

Conclusion

Once many in Acts 2 learned of Christ’s role, they demonstrated a willingness to get involved in the cause. They took the facts given to them and applied them to their own lives. They viewed those facts from the perspective of a humble attitude, and they obeyed God’s word. They became involved based on the anchor of hope Peter spoke of when he invited them to obedience. Likewise, we need knowledge, a good attitude, and involvement to receive the hope of God’s promises.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: attitude, growth, obedience

Early in their history, Israel wanted a king, a decision that eventually left to a divided kingdom and a great deal of unfaithfulness. During the reign of the final king if Judah, in Jeremiah 4:14 and 24 the people are described as lacking understanding, as foolish children, Also, in chapter 5:1-5, God gives Jeremiah a mission to look for anyone who is living justly, and Jeremiah is disappointed in his search time and again. Additionally, in Ezekiel 22:26-28 (after the captivity has begun), the problem has not improved. Rulers and spiritual leaders are leading the people into lies. Again, God recaps Jeremiah’s unsuccessful search. No one was willing to stand in the spiritual gap in Jerusalem’s wall.

In a city’s physical defenses, a gap in the wall was a serious gap in security. It was a place easily penetrated by enemies, and God uses is as an analogy for the spiritual defenses of His people. None were willing to spiritually defend God’s word. Today, we are under assault by temptations and worldly influences, and now God relies on us to bolster our spiritual defenses – to stand in the gap and create a barrier between ourselves and our foe.

Who Will Fill the Gap?

God is looking for the willing in Titus 2:1-8, those who are willing to exercise self-control and teach others likewise. Age is irrelevant. Both the young and the elderly can serve God and defend the spirituality of His church. Both the young and the old can demonstrate wisdom, and both can be learned from, whether the focus and clarity of youth or the experience and perspective of age.

He is also looking for husbands and wives to stand in the gap in Ephesians 5:23-33. He is looking for this relationship to be as it should be, and he reminds husbands in particular to take care of their wives as carefully as they take care of themselves. I Peter 3:1-5 describes spiritually strong women who serve as an example to their husbands, and verse seven describes both husband and wife as joint-heirs of God’s promises. Husbands and wives should honor one another – spiritually strengthening one another.

Parents are additional spiritual defenders. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 describes the familiarity God wants families to have with His word. Parents should be continually looking for teachable moments with their children. Ephesians 6:4 describes the nurture and admonition Christian children should be raised in, and this is a lifelong responsibility. Our home life should be as focused on the Lord as when we are at church. Spiritual instruction is not the sole responsibility of pastors, preachers, or Bible class teachers. Knowledge of God begins at home.

In this vein, God is looking for teachers. In Acts 18:24-26, a couple examples are present of willing teachers. Apollos is an eager and enthusiastic teacher whose knowledge is imperfect, and Aquila and Priscella were willing to help him understand better. We should all be as willing to help each other out and to receive such knowledge as gladly as Apollo. Both parties involved demonstrate attitudes we should be willing to emulate in our lives as teachers and as learners of God’s word. II Timothy 2:2 describes a process of teaching and re-teaching, spreading the word from person to person.

In our willingness, we should we willing to serve Him and serve each other. Galatians 6:1-2 describes an attitude of willingness to help each other, of bearing each other’s burdens. For a congregation to be successful, everyone needs to help everyone. James 5:16 encourages us to also help each other out with our temptations and our faults. We need to share with each other in order to be able to help each other, but this requires an attitude of openness and acceptance among ourselves so none of our brothers and sisters feel impeded from this relationship.

Conclusion

We need to examine our own lives before God, and we need to help each other defend from the outward influences dragging us away from God. We cannot reach Heaven on our won. However, we can make it if we work together, if we are the people we should be, and if we help each other out. We can stand in those gaps our brothers and sisters have, helping each other reach the goal.

By Kris Casebolt

Tags: church, parenthood, growth, one another

Congregation usually go in one of two directions – either forwards or backwards. Rarely do they successfully stay the same. From a personal perspective, Paul describes his efforts to grow as a Christian in Philippians 4:13-15, and congregations are similar. We either have to continue growing and improving, or we will slide backwards in dwelling on perceived problems rather than solutions.

In II Timothy 1:6-8, Paul knows he will soon be put to death. He knows he has no future on this world, but, even so, he attempts to remind Timothy of God’s love and the ability God gives him to make it through problems and continually press forward.

Necessary Factors for Growth

As we study these essentials, we need to examine ourselves. Am I a contributor to a problem if we are missing an essential, or can I help be part of the solution? Am I doing my part to help the congregation grow, or am I promoting stagnation and eventual backsliding?

• Strong Biblical Teaching. We need fewer “I thinks,” and more “Thus says the Lord.” We need to recognize the authority implicit in God’s word, and respect the boundaries placed by our Lord. We need to know who it is we are preaching about. We have to know the scriptures if we want to defend the scriptures. I Corinthians 3:11 reinforces our need to ground our congregation in Christ and His teachings.
  
  
• Committed Discipleship. How often am I involved in the congregation? How often am I involved in the lives of my fellow Christians? For a congregation to survive and grow, its membership must be committed to the cause of Christ. We cannot afford to have complacent members.
  
  
• We Must Live Joyfully and Morally. If we portray our Christianity or our membership with a congregation as a burden, others will not want to be involved. Along with this, if I am displaying animosity or hypocritical attitudes toward my brothers and sisters, what will others think? (See I Peter 2:11-12 and 3:15-16.) Our conduct should reflect the hope we have.
  
  
• A Familial Love for One Another. In I Peter 1:22 tells us to love one another fervently. Our Christian home should not be a broken one. Romans 12:10, I Peter 4:9, I John 3:10-11 and 4:7 – all of these speak to the caring attitude brothers and sisters in Christ should have toward each other. A congregation is a family. There will be hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and disagreements, but our love for one another helps us work through these problems and remain united.
  
  
• Commitment to Growth. Every member must be looking for doors of opportunity to build each other up and invite others. We cannot leave this work to “someone else,” else the work will go unfulfilled. II Timothy 2:2 clearly identifies our responsibility to teach others who will, in turn, continue the process.
  
  
• Enthusiastic Bible Study. We should want to come to study the Bible, and we should be instilling this desire in our children. We cannot allow ourselves to put Bible study on the back burner or allow ourselves to grow frustrated or complacent. For a congregation to grow, its members must be excited about God’s word – enough to teach it to others.
  
  
• Calm, Steady Leadership. We all have to take our part in emulating Christ, and lead each other toward improvement. Our attitudes should reflect His calm attitude, His loving patience with His apostles who stumble time and again. We cannot give up on each other if we are to be the growing family that we should be.
  

Conclusion

We always have room for improvement, but there is a difference between continually improving and glaring omissions. Only I can answer where I am standing, and only I can set myself on the road to improvement. However, we can rely on each other to help one another in our growth and create a congregation that is spiritual and productive.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: growth, church, study

We are faced with decisions on a daily basis, and the example of Lot, beginning in Genesis 13, tells the story of a life fraught with difficult decisions. These decisions are not trivial or inconsequential. Rather, many of the decision with which he is faced that have deeply impacting ramifications on his life and that of his family members.

The Consequences of Lot’s Choices

In the beginning of Genesis 13, some tension was growing between Abram’s and Lot’s estates due to the size of their herds, and, in verse 9, Abram proposes that the separate. Here, Lot is faced with a major choice: where to go. His choice is between good lands or great lands, and he chose the lands that appear better to him rather than settling. Lot chooses to dwell in the plains, and his tent is near Sodom – a city defined as wicked before God.

As we move into the next few chapters, consequences of his decision begin to appear. In chapter 14:12, we discover that Lot is taken captive by individuals invading Sodom, and he is now living within the borders of Sodom. Then, in 19:1, Lot is recorded as one of the city elders who sits at the gates. He has progressed from living on the outskirts to being entrenched in city decisions and politics.

Consequences begin to accumulate as two angels come to stay with Lot and his family – when violent individuals come to attack and probably rape the guests. In desperation, Lot offers this mob his virgin daughters to protect his guests. (Fortunately, the mob does not take him up on this offer.) His entire moral structure is crumbling, and all is hinged on his decision on where to take his herds. He loses his wife. He loses his sons-in-law.

Our Application

We think about the jobs we choose and the activities we engage in or that our families engage in. We justify some of our choices based on secular reasons, and we ignore the danger we may be opening ourselves to. Lot surely knew the reputation Sodom had, and he chose to move in that direction despite the present risks.

We may choose to take a job in a location where worshipping faithfully may be difficult. We may choose to consistently associate with individuals who will test our spirituality. We may be willing to take a job that will keep us away from family and our congregation. In all of these, we justify our actions and ignore potential ramifications. Whether we are talking about sports, jobs, social circles, we want the best – like Lot.

When we put our secular desires first and God second (convincing ourselves we will be okay), it is usually a sign that we are rejecting contentment with what we have and where we are. Lot thought he could handle Sodom. Samson thought he could handle a woman as did David. Solomon thought he could handle ungodly influences. All of these failed these tests.

Our spiritual principles need to guide our life decisions. We should first consider our families, our brothers and sisters in Christ, our spiritual salvation, before we thank about what we have or how much we make. I John 2:15 warns us not to love the things of this world, not to let this world hold us back from God. (Remember the rich young ruler of the gospels.) In Matthew 6:19-20, Jesus speaks to the temporary nature of our worldly possessions, and he redirects us to focus on those spiritual things that are permanent.

Conclusion

When coming to major decision, I have to ask: will this make me a better Christian? Is it in my family’s spiritual best interests? Am I honest enough with myself to see temptation in the details? There is a lot that might look good from a secular point of view that can actually impede our relationships with God. Heaven is our ultimate goal, and we need to make our important decisions based on that goal.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: contentment, priorities, growth, lot

The speaker shared his experiences with his recent hike down and up the Grand Canyon in one day, a challenge that was both extremely difficult and extremely rewarding. Great effort was involved, but the journey was a completely unique experience. This journey contains parallels with our Christian journey.

Our Christian Journey

Very few attempt this journey. Only 5% of visitors to the Grand Canyon venture below the rim of the canyon, and only 1% hike down to the Colorado River. Often, we barely scratch the surface of what it means to be a Christian, and it can be difficult to go deeper. James 1:22-25 challenges us to go beyond superficially hearing the word and to work on applying it. Matthew 7:13-14 tells us only a few will be willing to endure the journey.

The journey is long and requires preparation. The journey begins with enthusiasm and confidence, but, when difficulties set in, feelings of exhaustion and despair can become overwhelming. However, quitting is not an option (Hebrews 10:39). We have a lifetime to continue our walk, and we may question our own ability and resolve. This is part of the journey. In Luke 14:28-33, Jesus uses a couple of parables to illustrate the preparation required to continually follow God. The author of Hebrews 12:1-2 likens our life to a marathon race – maintaining endurance, keeping our goal in view.

There was great benefit in rest and refreshing. Along this hike, rest was mandatory to reaching the goal. As the church is being established in Acts 2, we read that they continued to spend time with each other in the final few verses. Throughout Acts, Christians spend time with each other – building each other up and refreshing each other. Hebrews 10:24 encourages us to keep motivating and encouraging each other. We should value our chances to worship together and to socialize with each other because those are times we can refresh and rest with one another.

We need the help of one another. During the trip, members of the group shared supplies with each other and helped each other out, sometimes even to the point of carrying others’ loads. Hebrews 12:12-13 reinforces this point in Christian living. We need each other to reach our goal, and we should be looking out for each other.

The completion will be worth the journey. Through the pain and effort of the journey, the end brings joy and fulfillment. I Peter 4:12-13 and 5:10 both speak of temporary suffering leading to ultimate joy. In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul speaks of the constant effort he puts into his Christian walk – forsaking the past and pressing toward his goal. For better or worse, our past has brought us to where we are, but we put that behind us in order to push forward.

Conclusion

Are we willing to press on in our own journeys toward the goal of Heaven? Can we finish what we have started? The journey may not be easy, but with endurance and the help of each other, we can obtain the promise of rest and salvation in Jesus Christ.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: one another, growth, endurance

The speakers grandfather once said, “If you ever find yourself in the doghouse, don’t waste time putting up curtains.” A grandmother once said, “There is no good excuse for bad behavior.” These little phrases and bits of wisdom tend to stick with us and come back to memory when needed. Secular wisdom, quotes, and truisms often help us understand our lives or give us motivation. For example, John F. Kennedy once said, “We do not do these things because they are easy but because they are hard.”

Difficulties in Being a Christian

The most valuable goals in our lives are often not easy to achieve, but we expect the reward will be worth the effort. Overcoming hardship can even be its own reward – independent of other expected outcomes. The very process of surmounting is fulfilling in and of itself. Living as a Christian, living godly, is difficult. It is so much easier to just give in to any and all temptations. Matthew 7:12-14 warns us that our path requires effort and dedication. It requires self-sacrifice and determination.

As children, we often have rules to follow that evolve into developing principles as we grow older. Simple rules no longer suffice as our moral compass. We need an internal sense of right-and-wrong to help guide our behaviors and attitudes. Once necessary as the result of sin, God gave His people a list of what is acceptable and what is unacceptable. He gave the Law. This has evolved with the sacrifice of Christ and the institution of the church. We are now instructed to follow the pattern and the principles of Christ. We are to emulate godly behaviors and attitudes.

The Bushido code follows seven basic core principles: right attitude, bravery, love, sincerity, honor, loyalty, and right actions. The key principle is honor. It is the foundation of this code as we have a foundation we build our lives upon. The morals and values we hold to provide the foundation that honor anchors us to. It is what gives us our set of principles that encourages to do what we view as most right.

As Christians, how anchored are we to what we believe? If Christ is our foundation (see Matthew 7:24-27), how strongly do we hold to the example He set and the commitment He demands? Consequences and difficulties might weaken our hold to that foundation, but overcoming those difficulties makes us stronger Christians. We are made better through those trials.

Jesus did not follow an easy path in His martyrdom and the salvation He offers, and the path we follow is difficult. These difficulties, though, make the journey all the more worthwhile. We recognize the value in things that take effort to attain, and Christ asks us to provide effort in following Him. In Matthew 11:30, Jesus talks about the lightness of His burden compared to that of the world’s, but bearing a yoke still requires effort. By taking Christ’s burden, we remove the spiritual weight and consequences of sin, but we may still face difficult choices and circumstances in this life. In the verse directly prior, Jesus asks us to take that burden upon ourselves voluntarily. We should be welcoming the challenges of our faith as the disciples did in Acts 5:40-42.

Conclusion

God loves us as a Father to His children. He loves us regardless of who we are, but He has expectations for us. He expects us to obey His word, and His standard is what we should be holding ourselves to. It is easy to create our own standard and adjust it as we need to, but God wants us to take the more challenging path as Peter points out in I Peter 1:16. As His children, we should be working to follow His will in His way. Jesus did His Father’s will when He came to this world, knowing the pain He would endure, and, in doing this, He set an example for us. Jesus took a difficult path for the sake of God, and so can we.

By Brad Rosene

Tags: growth, endurance

No Christian is disposable or dispensable to the congregation of which he or she belongs. As we create a picture of what we want a congregation to grow into, each individual is a part of the process. There is no shortcut to maturity – as a group or as individuals – and, as the individuals commit themselves to growing spiritually, so too will the congregation.

Three Contributors to Maturity

Commitment. In Acts 2:42-46, the church is in its infancy, and there are three thousand new Christians with diverse backgrounds, opinions, and interpretations. However, these people were steadfast. They were committed. Through trials and disagreements, these Christians held firm to their common cause, and they remained faithful to the commitment they had made.

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

Enthusiasm. In Acts 5, the apostles are tried and beaten for supporting Jesus, but they rejoice in their cause in verse 41. Also see Acts 8:39 and 16:34. There is so much around us that could distract and discourage us, but we must remember that our joy is in the Lord and in His work.

“And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.” - Acts 16:34

Endurance. In Romans 12:9-21, Paul emphasizes humility and brotherly love. It takes a certain amount of endurance to be patient and caring towards others – especially when disagreements arise. Everything may not play out the way we expect it to, but we must exercise patience during these times.

“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;” - Romans 12:12

Our Application

In developing spiritual maturity as a group, we have to start with ourselves, In Matthew 23:3, Jesus calls out the Pharisees for teaching one thing and living another, but Jesus says to follow their teachings if they are, in fact, true. Instead of worrying about pointing out others’ immaturity, our spiritual growth begins with ourselves. Then (II Timothy 2:2), we reach out to others. We have to be active if we want others to become involved in our work; if we want them to join the cause of Christ. Personal involvement goes far in influencing others positively.

The first century Christians filled Jerusalem and then the world with their teaching, and the church continued to grow due to the commitment, patience, and enthusiasm the individual members demonstrated during that time. We can emulate that pattern, resulting in growth and maturity in the Lord’s kingdom.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: growth, kingdom, church

Ephesians 4:11 begins by talking about some gifts given to us through the types of people we are around or are influenced by – the apostles and prophets, evangelists, spiritual leaders, and teachers. Paul goes on to explain in verse 12 that these gifts are given for the “equipping of the saints,” making us ready for our work of service. This creates an environment on building and encouragement, and verse 13 tells us this building up is to the goal of spiritual maturity and unity as measured against the standard of Christ.

In verses 14-15, maturity helps us withstand impure influences and false doctrines. We should be spiritually growing towards the ideal of Christ, and Paul wraps up by saying that every member must do its part for the body (the church) to function properly. Every member is to serve in building our spiritual body, edified and assisted by the teachers and leaders we are blessed with.

Edifying the Body

Romans 12:3-8 speaks to various roles we can assume in the building up of the body. Paul encourages us to serve when service is needed – helping the congregation and members in whatever ways we can. In Mark 10:45, Jesus says that He did not come to be serve but to serve others. Our focus should not be on how the congregation serves us. Rather, we should be asking ourselves how we can serve our congregations.

Teaching is also mentioned in Romans 12, and there are many ways we can teach. Teachable moments present themselves on a daily basis. We don’t have to be in a formal setting to show someone the Lord. Philip, in John 1, merely invites his brother when he encounters Jesus. Think about some of the situations Jesus taught in. Teachab.e moments happen, and we should be looking for them.

Romans 12:8 speaks to encouraging one another. How can we build one another up? What do we talk about when Christians are together? Hebrews 3:13 tells us to encourage each other daily, and conversation is a good place for this to start. We need to be involved with each other, helping each other grow, whether we consider ourselves strong or weak Christians.

Romans 12:8 also mentions giving. We live in a world that values greed and selfishness, but Christians are supposed to be giving – especially toward each other. First century Christians sold of their own possessions and shared their resources with those in need and with those who spread the gospel. Leadership is also a topic here. We need people of conviction, prayer, and patience who work and serve and are consumed with helping other grow. Paul, in his journeys, was seldom alone. He always had someone he was mentoring or teaching.

Finally, mercy is present in this passage. I Peter 4:8 pleads for us to be loving toward each other, hospitable and serving in our character. God want us to take our blessings, and he wants us to pass these blessings on.

Conclusion

There is work we can all do, and our goal should be to build up ourselves and the members of our congregation to the standard of Christ, living a life of Christian service and sharing the hope we have in Christ with others.

By Gary Fisher

Tags: church, kingdom, behaviors, growth, one another

Opening in Proverbs 25, the author makes several comparisons through this chapter, like in verses 11, 14, and 28. It is this last comparison we are going to be examining in this lesson, in which the author brings up the subject of self control – comparing such an individual to an ancient city lacking its defensive walls. Without self control, our defense against temptation and sin is what is at stake. We are vulnerable, unrestrained, and volatile if our lives lack this quality.

In Galatians 5, as Paul has encouraged his readers to walk by the spirit, he contrasts this walk with the works of the flesh. In verses 22-23, he qualifies self-control as a fruit of the spirit. In Titus 1:8, self control is listed as a quality found in spiritual leaders. I Peter 1:5-9 lists this quality as something we should develop in our spiritual maturation. FInally, Acts 24:25, Paul discusses self-control in the context of talking about Christ-worship.

Why Should I Be Working On Self Control?

Matthew 16 contains the context of Peter’s confession and Jesus’ preaching that He will be crucified as part of His ministry. What it took for Christ to endure the cross was self control. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus says that anyone who would follow Him should deny self for the cause. This verse speaks clearly to the concept of self control. To be a Christian, one must crucify self, with the demands and desires our selves might make that are contrary to the life a Christian should lead.

Romans 12:1-2 calls us a living sacrifice (linking to Matthew 16:24), warning us to avoid conformation to worldly standards. Living by these standards requires control over self. In the same chapter, verses 17-18 warn us against doing harm to people who wrong us in some way, and we are encouraged to try to live peaceably with all we come in contact with. In Philippians 4:8 simply instructs us to focus our minds on wholesome things, again requiring a level of self control that takes effort and focus.

How Do I Develop Control?

Apply God’s word. Psalm 119:9 makes it plain that study and application is the key starting point to getting our lives under control. We pore over information regarding our interests. We make time for which we want to make time, and it help us develop self control to set aside time to study our Bibles. Psalm 119:11 equates Biblical knowledge with avoiding sin.

Weigh the consequences. Mark 8:36 asks what good it is to gain all things but lose that which matters most. We weigh consequences in so many areas of our lives (major purchases, new jobs, a major move, etc.), and this applies to sin and temptation as well. What do I gain versus what I lose? Is the short-term gain worth the long-term loss?

Pray. I Peter 5:6-7 tells us God cares about us and allows us to bring our cares to Him. If it causes me anxiety, God cares. If I want self control in my life, I can pray for my areas of weakness.

Draw strength from God. Our struggle with sin is not a fair fight. Philippians 4:13, Paul states that he can do all things in “Him who strengthens me.” We can gain the self control we need through God’s strength and guidance.

Conclusion

Self control is not going to just happen to us. We have to put effort into developing this control. In I Corinthians 6:12-13 illustrates a lack of self control among the Christians in Corinth, and verse 12 wars us against letting anything have control over our selves. If we are going to live as Christians, we cannot allow external influences to tear us away from the path we have chosen. We need to control ourselves and follow the example Christ set for us – denying self and pressing forward.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: behaviors, growth, temptation

In Romans chapters 7-8, there are some verses that can be very challenging to us as Christians. Beginning in Romans 7:15, Paul expresses an idea that he does not understand his own actions and that he follows behaviors that go against his desire. He is describing a struggle between good and evil within himself, and we are going to look at that struggle as it applies to our own lives.

The Struggle Against Evil

This struggle is real. Many Christians seem afraid to admit that they struggle against sin. We think that a “real Christian” should not have to struggle, and we think such difficulties reflect poorly on our spiritual maturity. However, we see some very strong characters in the Bible face this struggle. Right here we have Paul – author of the majority of the New Testament. Also Peter is an example of one who struggles with consistency in his own life, from zealousness to denial and back. Even Jesus, in Matthew 4, is faced with temptation for forty days, and in verse 11, angels come to attend to Jesus after the ordeal concludes (see also Hebrews 2:18). If these individuals find temptations to be a struggle, then I will as well.

We have a powerful opponent. Aside from God’s love and the saving blood of His son, sin is the most powerful force in the universe. Isaiah 59:1-2 describes sin as something that drives a wedge between myself and God. Ezekiel 18:4 and Romans 6:23 both describe sin as a killing force. However, we know that God will not allow our temptation to be stronger that what we can overcome. Ephesians 6:10-11 tells us to equip ourselves with the Lord’s word to help us stand against this enemy who does not fight fair. Satan knows how to make sin look god and enticing, and we have to be prepared to defend ourselves. (See also I Peter 5:8-9 and II Corinthians 2:11.) Satan is stronger than any of us unless we have Christ on our side.

This struggle is one of life and death. We have already looked at two verses (Romans 6:23 and Ezekiel 18:4) that reinforce this point. What happened when Adam and Eve ate of the forbidden food – they suffered spiritual death, and their bodies began to die. Why did Satan attack Job? Job was spiritually alive, and Satan wanted Job to die. Even though we have an enemy, we are the ones accountable for our actions in II Corinthians 5:10 and Romans 12:14. The struggle is not what we should fear; it is the absence of struggle. It takes two to fight, and if we are not struggling against temptation, then we may have already lost.

We can overcome. Romans 7:24-25 begins in despair, but Paul turns attention to the salvation found in God, claiming that those in Jesus are free from the condemnation of sin (8:1). We are lost to Satan when we are Christ’s, but he will try to get us back. I John 1:5-2:6 tells us Christ’s blood cleanses us while we walk in the light and confess those sins that have temporarily overtaken us. John speaks of knowing our Lord through keeping His commandments and following His example. Still in I John, chapter 5:4 tells us that our faith in God is what helps us overcome those temptations that assail us. Our active, faithful obedience protects us in this struggle.

Conclusion

Satan is stronger than any of us, but we can find refuge and protection in Christ. We may try to win this struggle before coming to Christ, but this approach does not work. It is Jesus and His word who helps us overcome our enemy. If we but accept the help He offers and come to Him on His terms, we can be victorious in our struggle against sin.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: sin, growth, endurance, temptation

Many of us are resistant to change in general. We like the patterns and the habits we live in, and we resist efforts to shake things up. Though we may feel opposed to change, the Christian life is all about changing. Our priorities, our speech, our priorities – all aspects of our lives change when we put on the name of Christ. We then continue to change as we develop spiritually and face new challenges in our Christian lives.

In Joshua 3, the people of Israel is about to cross the Jordan River. They have a new leader and are about to enter a land new and unfamiliar to them. They are literally treading new ground (verse 4), and the people are told to follow the path of the Ark so they know where to go. God has a plan for how they are to proceed, and, despite apprehensions or expectations, the people have to follow.

Facing Christian Change

We should face change calmly. Once we are ready to head in the right direction, we simply have to trust in God. In Luke 9:57, various individuals are invited or volunteer to follow Jesus, but few do because they look back at other concerns, but Jesus says that there is no looking back once committed. There is only a calm trust in God. Hebrews 6:1 invites us to press forward, one step at a time, toward spiritual completion.

We need endurance. Hebrews 11 speaks of several heroes of faith who have pressed on before us, and chapter 12 encourages to endure as they did. We face temptations and discouragement. The changes required by Christ take continuous effort, and we need to build up endurance to persist in that life.

We should be compliant. When facing the unknown, we should fall back onto God’s word. The children of Israel had a pattern to follow in entering their new land, and we also have a pattern. Hebrews 2:1 tells us to give heed to what we learn as Christians. Otherwise we risk drifting away and back into our old patterns. Hearing, but not doing, is not enough to keep us close to God. James 1:22 tells us that behaving this way is a form of self-deception, and Matthew 7:21 continues to reinforce the role of obedience in pleasing God. When we change to become a Christian, we have to be willing to comply to the patterns and lifestyle modeled in the scriptures.

We need confidence. In Joshua 3, the Ark stands as a symbol of God’s presence before His people. It inspires confidence in those it precedes. We pray for God to “guide, guard, and direct us,” and this is exactly what He is doing in Joshua 3. Hebrews 4:13-15 speaks to the confidence we can have in our new relationship with God, and Ephesians 3:20 tells us that God is capable of things beyond or imagination. We know what He has promised those faithful to Him, and we can be confident in those assurances He has given us (Philippians 4:13).

We can face our change cheerfully. Not every aspect of our Christianity will always bring us joy, but the attitude we face these aspects will influence how much we are affected. In Philippians 4:4, writing from prison, Paul calls in Christians to rejoice. We cannot always choose what we’ll experience, but we can always choose the attitude we have. I Peter 1:7-9 also tells of the joy we should have because of the salvation of our souls in Jesus, and Psalm 118:24 reminds us to be glad for every day the Lord gives us.

Conclusion

In trying to live as a Christian, we have to make changes, and there will be new experiences and challenges as a result of those changes. We need to face these changes and challenges calmly and with endurance. We need to comply with God’s word, confident in His promises, and cheerful for the redemption we are promised in these changes.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: behaviors, attitude, growth

Sometimes we are the cause of our own unhappiness. We might blame exterior reasons like our job or our family, but it often comes down to ourselves, the approach we take to our lives, and the attitudes we carry. Einstein once said that doing the same thing over and over while expecting different results is insanity, but we often live this way. Spiritually, we may want to have better Christian lives, but we follow old patterns that may be ineffective and unsatisfying.

Setting New Patterns

Are we drawing closer to God? Do we find ourselves committing to God at times but reverting back to our old ways? James 1:22-25 encourages us to be active doers of God’s word rather than just listeners, and the author of Hebrews 4:14-16 encourages to approach God’s grace with confidence. Hebrews 10:19-23 reinforces the role of confidence in our drawing closer to God. Furthermore, James 4:7-8 correlates resisting sin with drawing nearer to God.

Are we encouraging others? It can be tough to take the initiative in reaching out to a brother or sister in need. I Thessalonians 5:9-11 builds our confidence in encouraging one another atop our confidence in our relationship with God. Paul, in Romans 1:11-12, speaks of spiritual strength resulting from mutual encouragement, and Colossians 2:1-3 speaks of the relationship with other Christians that results from encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 tells us that this encouragement begins in our fellowship.

How well do we know God’s word? We are the only one’s to blame if we are not taking the time to know and understand God’s word. II Timothy 2:15 tells us it takes diligence, and Ezra, in Ezra 7:10, is an example of one who was diligent in his mission to know God’s word. Also, I Peter 3:15-16 tells us to always be prepared to answer for the hope and confidence we have in our relationship with God. We must know the word if we are to talk about it.

How are our prayer lives? Do we only pray for meals? Do we only pray as a last resort? Are we fully casting our cares on Him, or do we have reservations? Philippians 4:6-7 says that a healthy prayer life leads to inner peace. Furthermore, James 4:2-3 speaks to the attitude we should have in prayer. We should pray, but our intentions should not be selfish, and I Peter 5:6-7 tells us to be humble in our prayers. Colossians 1:9 correlates godly wisdom with a healthy prayer life. In Matthew 6:5-13 Jesus explains and gives an example of how we should pray that ties in with what we have seen so far.

Conclusion

If we want to grow spiritually, we have to be willing to change the patterns we live in. We can’t expect to improve our spirituality if we are willing to do nothing. Do we find our relationship with God and fellow Christians lacking? We can draw closer to God and our brothers and sisters. We can encourage and be encouraged, and we can use prayer and study as avenues to God. If we aim at nothing, it has been said, we will hit it every time. Don’t get settled into old patterns. Make an aim to be more spiritually-minded, and take the steps to improve your relationship with God and other Christians.

By Donn Koonce

Tags: prayer, attitude, one another, growth

On New Year’s Eve, we can be pretty enthusiastic about the topic of resolutions, but, two weeks later most have fallen by the wayside. In fact, we sometimes jokingly talk about the resolutions that we know we haven’t kept. We tend to either make very general resolutions, or we are resolute about generalizations. “Someday, I’m going to lose weight.” “Everyday, I’m going to exercise somehow.”

Daniel made a resolution to abstain from unclean food in Babylon (Daniel 1:8). The authors of II Corinthians 13:5 and Hebrews 6:1 challenge us to take stock of where we need to improve and then make those improvements. Making resolutions is a healthy activity, but we need to make measurable objectives if we are to be consistent with that resolution. We get nowhere in particular because we try to get everywhere in general (paraphrased from Robert Turner).

Congregational and Individual Resolutions

What are some focuses we can have both as a congregation and as individuals?

Individually Be a Better Christian. This is a very general resolution, but there are specific things we can do to accomplish this.

• Perhaps we can resolve to read our Bible daily. The psalmist calls God’s word his daily meditation in Psalm 119:97, and, in Matthew 4:4 Jesus states that God’s word is to be our spiritual food.
  
  
• Additionally, spending more time in prayer can improve our spirituality. In Luke 11, Jesus’ disciples request learning to properly pray, and Hebrews 4:16 tells us we can go to God when we are in need. When Paul, in II Thessalonians, tells us to “pray without ceasing,” we are reminded to keep an active prayer life despite the distractions of this world.
  
  
• Finally, I could pick an attitude or a personal characteristic to work on. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus encourages us to be more forgiving. Hebrews 13:1 instructs us to be more loving toward others. Philippians 2:3-4 tells us to work on putting others first. Maybe I can work on patience, humility, or many others.

Grow Stronger As a Congregation. Again, this is very general. How can I, as an individual, help strengthen the congregation?

• I could commit to teach a Bible class or Bible study. Titus 2 enumerates attitudes and behaviors different individuals in a congregation should have, and these attitudes have to be taught. In teaching, one learns. II Timothy 2:2 sets up what is sometimes referred to as the “each one teach one” principle.
  
  
• My own interests and talents can provide and avenue to strengthen the group. Ephesians 4:11-12 talks about encouraging one another in our own individual ways. Perhaps I can just be a positive, encouraging person. I could visit sick individuals or cook meals for those who need it. There are so many things we can do for each other that can draw us closer together and strengthen the congregation as a whole.

Conclusion

I have to determine that success begins with me when it comes to resolutions. In I Kings 20:13-14, Ahab is promised victory, but the prophet tells Ahab that he individually had to start the initiative. In Joshua 24, Joshua tells the people to choose for themselves, but he makes the commitment before all to serve God. Finally, Ephesians 4:16 emphasizes the importance of every member of a congregation. Whether we are talking about personal improvement or congregational improvement, success or failure comes down to individual efforts.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: growth, attitude, behaviors

When we lose something, we usually recognize it is lost. Where are my car keys? Where is my wallet? (Where is my voice? I lost my voice!) When we lose these things, we try to retrace our steps and find the last place we left the object. How does this apply to our faith? Our faith is not something that we just suddenly misplace. Rather it is something that can slowly fade away, and we may not be able to pinpoint an exact moment when faith is lost.
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Strengthening Faith

Trying to avoid losing our faith, we’re going to look at three areas on which we can focus to keep our faith strong. Keeping our faith is important because losing our faith is the same as losing God in our lives.
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Prayer. In Acts 3, Peter and John heal a paralyzed individual, and they begin to preach Christ. The result is their arrest and trial before the Sanhedrin. Now these two apostles were witness to these people judging Jesus worthy of death, and the Sanhedrin threatens Peter and John. However, beginning in verse 23, they prayed together for strength to continue teaching Christ. Their faith may have been shaken, but they used prayer to solidify that faith.
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Furthermore, in Acts 16, Paul and Silas are arrested, beaten, and thrown into prison. Again, these are acts that could easily fracture one’s faith, but, in verse 25, the other prisoners hear these two praying and singing to God. Instead of losing sight of the Lord, they turn to and rely on Him.
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Remember I Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.” In our own personal lives, how long has it been since we took the time to talk to God – not just during worship service, not only before a meal. Hebrews 4:16 reminds us that prayer helps us find grace in times of need. We should make time in our lives to pray to God, even when our lives seem too busy. In this, we can keep the Lord in our sight.
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Study. Hosea, in Hosea 4:6, records that God’s people were destroyed for lack of knowledge. As James makes reference, we can be “hearers” of the word without truly respecting and applying that word.
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In Hebrews 5:11-14, the author criticizes his audience for being “dull of hearing.” He cites a lack of spiritual growth, even regression, in their spiritual knowledge. They were not using the word. They were lacking in experience (verse 14), and, as a result, they could not properly discern from the word. II Timothy 2:15 reinforces the idea that knowing and understanding the Bible takes effort.
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Priorities. In Matthew 6, Jesus addresses daily concerns – food and clothing – but verse 32 reminds us that God knows of our needs. The result? We should put God first. We should prioritize Him, and all else is brought into proper perspective. Matthew 16:24 tells us to “deny self.” We cannot be self-centered and expect our faith to be strong. A solid faith comes from putting Jesus first.
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When Jesus drops in terms of priorities, then faith begins to waver and fade. We let self and worldly concerns choke out the faith we have, and, next thing we know, we realize we have lost our faith.
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Conclusion

When you lose something, you find it in the last place you look. However you can’t find something you are not looking for. Have you lost your faith? Are you willing to look for it? The key is to look in the right place, and prayer, study, and priorities can help us regain faith we may have lost.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: faith, growth, prayer, priorities, study

In our last lesson, we considered the Pharisees in light of Matthew 9:13 – Jesus instructing the Pharisees to learn of God’s desire for mercy and justice. We looked at the roots of the Pharisee movement, where they had good motives, and where they went wrong. We concluded that we must speak where the Bible speaks, remaining silent where it is silent, but we must not become unmerciful and self-righteous in our efforts.

Because Jesus emphasized mercy with the Pharisees, we are going to look at the concept of mercy and how it affects us. Mercy and compassion are not the same thing. Having compassion is not being merciful because mercy requires action while compassion is merely an emotion.

Why Is Mercy Important?

It Is a Characteristic of God. In Exodus 33:18, Moses asks to see God’s glory – God mentions grace and mercy before He shows Himself to Moses. In Exodus 34:5-6, His mercy is mentioned again in context of revealing His glory. In Deuteronomy 4:31, Moses calls Jehovah a merciful God, and Psalm 145:8 describes God as merciful, gracious, and slow to anger. In Joel 2:13 and Jonah 4:2 regard the Lord’s mercy (even though Jonah’s intentions are not exactly right).

We emphasize God’s holiness and the importance of emulating that holiness, but on the same token, God describes Himself as merciful, gracious, and slow to anger. Mercy should be important to us because it is a quality of our Lord.

It is Something We Ask of God. In Luke 18:9-14, we have the familiar story of the publican and the Pharisee. Very simply, the publican asks for mercy, and Jesus describes him as justified in God’s eyes. We recognize that we need God’s mercy, and we know we are unjustified without that mercy. Mercy is asked for around forty times in the book of Psalms. We ask for mercy because we know we need it.

It is Something God Asks of Us. Paul, in Romans 12 speaks of the opportunities and talents we should be using for the Lord. Paul speaks of spiritual gifts and natural gifts, and in this context, mercy is emphasized. Luke 6:31 is commonly referred to as the Golden Rule, and verse 36 brings mercy into this context of how God expects us to treat each other, and James 2:13 warns us that being unmerciful results in judgment without mercy. However, James also says that mercy can triumph over judgment.

Hosea 6:6 states that God desires mercy, and Micah 6:8 asks of kindness. These are qualities God looks for in His people. He takes delight in merciful people (Micah 7:18). I Corinthians 13 emphasizes love heavily, and, in verses 2-3, Paul states that great deeds done without love are no good to us spiritually. As God is merciful, we should be merciful.

Areas We Can Grow

Showing Mercy to the Lost. Do we have concern for the souls of those who do not agree with us, or do we view them as enemies. Remember how the Pharisees treated the healed blind man – casting him from the temple – and the adulteress – seeking her execution. Are we similar? Matthew 9:10-13 provides context to the quote we’ve been looking at on mercy. Sometimes we act as if the gospel is for the righteous – not for all. In that, we may be unmerciful.

Showing Mercy to New Converts. All too often, we treat a new child of Christ as if they are already matured. We expect instant knowledge and resolution on principals and scriptural interpretation. Sometimes, we come down too hard on individuals who are not at the same level of understanding.

Showing Mercy to Fellow Christians. We listen to “reports” about other brethren, within our own congregation and without. We pass judgment, but we don’t look for verification nor speak to the individuals we may be judging. We condemn on the basis appearances, and we have a difficult time giving the benefit of doubt, and we have a difficult time merely listening when differences of opinion arise. In Galatians 5:13-15, Paul warns Christians not to bite and devour each other lest they destroy themselves. This is spiritual cannibalism that can cause congregations to self-destruct. Matthew 12:7 provides a warning: judging without mercy can result in condemning the innocent. While we fight each other, we fail to fight the fight of faith.

Conclusion

Mercy is an incredibly important part of our Christian lives. We need to work hard to demonstrate mercy to others, even those it may be most difficult for. We strive to “be holy as [God] is holy,” and God expects us to be merciful as we hope for His mercy.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: forgiveness, godly qualities, growth, one another, grace and mercy

Think about these question: What kind of things make you happy? Similarly, what does it take to make you happy? For the next few lessons, we are going to be looking at the Sermon on the Mount, sometimes referred to as the Christian Manifesto or God’s Guide to Life. The three chapters (Matthew 5-7) that constitute this sermon contain a wealth of information, and this is a beneficial place to come to when we need to center or focus on what we should be as Christians.

Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit

This lesson begins with what we call the Beatitudes. “Blessed are...” begins several verses here, and this carries an idea of happiness with it. It is a bestowment of divine favor, and the “pursuit of happiness” is one of the tenets our own country is based on.

These keys to being blessed are centered around characteristics, though, not possessions or circumstances. In fact, many of these are in absolute contrast to what we would define as being blessed. Jesus is addressing a fundamental truth that happiness is determined by internal factors – character and heart – much more than by external factors – circumstance and materials. Return to our opening questions: What does it take to make you happy? Putting our contentment in worldly circumstances and objects will cause us to behave in ways that are not Christ-like.

Matthew 5:3 really sums up all the Beatitudes: “Blessed are the poor inspirit.” Meekness, mourning, hunger and thirst for righteousness, mercifulness, purity, peacefulness, and being persecuted or reproached all tie back to this first verse of the Beatitudes. In this context, the word “poor” here has an idea of someone who has no earthly resources, totally dependent on others, and this is the state we are to be in in terms of our spirituality – He is speaking of spiritual poverty. This speaks to the characteristic of humility.

• Humility gives me proper view of myself. In Proverbs 16:5, pride is condemned as an abomination before God. Yes, there are things in this life we can take pride in, but humility keeps us from inflating ourselves. We can see ourselves as others see us and as God sees us.
  
  
• Humility gives me a proper view of Jesus. It helps me emulate Jesus (Philippians 2:5-9). He emptied Himself and took on the traits of a servant. He was obedient, and He did all these things to help others come to God.
  
  
• Humility gives me a proper view of God. I Peter 5:6 tells us to humble ourselves before God, so he may exult us when He has purposed. (Refer back to Philippians 2:9.)

Application: How Do I Develop Spiritual Poverty?

We have to recognize our spiritual helplessness. We are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:8-9), and our salvation is not in ourselves. We cannot place our trust in ourselves, our peers, or even spiritual leaders when it comes to our spirituality. Our total trust has to be in God, and we have to recognize that Heaven is not something we can earn. In Philippians 3:4, Paul begins to discuss the confidence he should be able to have in his upbringing, background, and actions. However, he concludes that all of these are worthless compared to the confidence he draws from God. (Also, consider the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector and how their actions/justification contrast.)

Conclusions

At the end of the day, we need to remember that we are all the same – beggars in need of God’s forgiveness. When the world is so physical, and material, it can be difficult to focus on what we should as Christians. If we can remember to empty ourselves of pride and the priorities of this world, we can approach the cross in humility and allow God to fill our spiritual poverty.

By Tim Smelser

Tags: attitude, the mount, growth, jesus