Acts 16
25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
How do we communicate with God? And how does God communicate with us? How do we communicate with other Christians? One way is through music. God gives us the gift to sing, and we sing our hearts out. Then again, sometires it's just good to hear an old gospel song.
An Example
The church I go to, I love the singing, I can feel the Spirit in the singing. And, it's just a small group of saved sinners, God fearing I'm sure, and a piano.
Another example
My my mother had Altzhimers in her later years. In her last year we would watch the Gaithers on TV. I'll never know for sure, she didn't have much of a mind, but I think this was one of her favorite Gaither songs.
WHEN ALL OF GOD'S SINGERS GET HOME
Luther G. Presley; Virgil O. Stamps (Gaither Homecoming Hour)
What a song of delight in that City so bright
Will be wafted 'neath Heaven's fair dome!
How the ransomed will raise happy songs in His praise,
When all of God's singers get home!
When all of God's singers get home,
Where never a sorrow will come;
There'll be "no place like home,"
When all of God's singers get home.
As We sing here on earth, songs of sadness or mirth,
'Tis a foretaste of rapture to come.
But our joy can't compare with the glory up there,
When all of God's singers get home!
Having overcome sin, "Hallelujah, AMEN!"
Will be heard in that land o'er the foam;
Every heart will be light and each face will be bright--
When all of God's singers get home!
Question
What does God really think of Southern Gospel Music?
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
When All Of God's Singers Come Home (1 Of 3)
Acts 16
25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
There certainly is a lot going on in your life, before you get the call, before you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Big things, little things, events, family influences, work influences, conversations, odd daily routines. And, some of these things are spiritual and edifying and comforting. Some of these things seem to be nudging you toward your redemption.
Growing up, living in the North, we were not allowed to forget our Eastern North Carolina roots. And, you might say, we revelled in our roots, and in particular our Primitive Baptist roots and what seemed to be quaint customs: Baptism in the river, very strict no-nonsense living, foot-washing and A Capella singing.
And now, with the internet, you are just a click away from your spiritual past. Here are some samples of A Capella singing:
There'll Be No Sorrow There
Amazing Grace
It's like peering into heaven....
25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
There certainly is a lot going on in your life, before you get the call, before you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Big things, little things, events, family influences, work influences, conversations, odd daily routines. And, some of these things are spiritual and edifying and comforting. Some of these things seem to be nudging you toward your redemption.
Growing up, living in the North, we were not allowed to forget our Eastern North Carolina roots. And, you might say, we revelled in our roots, and in particular our Primitive Baptist roots and what seemed to be quaint customs: Baptism in the river, very strict no-nonsense living, foot-washing and A Capella singing.
And now, with the internet, you are just a click away from your spiritual past. Here are some samples of A Capella singing:
There'll Be No Sorrow There
Amazing Grace
It's like peering into heaven....
Friday, October 29, 2010
When All Of God's Singers Come Home (2 Of 2)
Acts 16
25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them,
There certainly is a lot going on in your life, before you get the call, before you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Big things, little things, events, family influences, work influences, conversations, odd daily routines. And, some of these things are spiritual and edifying and comforting. Some of these things seem to be nudging you toward your redemption.
Every Sunday for eight years, before I went off to college, I sat in the pew from which this picture was taken. I loved church music, and oh I loved that organ. It was like a member of the family, a brother or a sister. The church was Methodist, with a grand and glorious view of God's grace.
And so, how did I finally find my spiritual home and God's truth in a small Independent Fundamental Baptist church? In Northern New Jersey? I think the expression is: I have no earthly idea. I guess the answer is the wonder of the working of the Holy Spirit.
Here is the organ from the view of the music director, Dr. Austin C. Lovelace.
....the wonder of the working of the Holy Spirit....
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Jesus And The Jews (Pharisees)
John 8
44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
In this chapter Jesus has a lengthy discussion with the Pharisees. Above he comments on these Pharisees, these sons of Abraham. His condemnation is harsh.
The apostle Paul continues the discussion of the Jews in the book of Romans.
Romans 9
1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,
2 that I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.
3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:
44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
In this chapter Jesus has a lengthy discussion with the Pharisees. Above he comments on these Pharisees, these sons of Abraham. His condemnation is harsh.
The apostle Paul continues the discussion of the Jews in the book of Romans.
Romans 9
1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,
2 that I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.
3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Truth Of The Call
John 6
44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.
This is the truth, as I understand it and as I have experienced it.
Jamieson Faussett Brown
draw him--by an internal and efficacious operation; though by all the means of rational conviction, and in a way altogether consonant to their moral nature.
44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.
This is the truth, as I understand it and as I have experienced it.
Jamieson Faussett Brown
draw him--by an internal and efficacious operation; though by all the means of rational conviction, and in a way altogether consonant to their moral nature.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
The Holy Spirit
John 14
16 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.
The Holy Spirit can pass by you, like a warm breeze. The Holy Spirit can, from time to time, fill you. The Holy Spirit can dwell in you.
I remember the day that I first knew that the Holy Spirit "shall be in you."
More From John 14
18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
16 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.
The Holy Spirit can pass by you, like a warm breeze. The Holy Spirit can, from time to time, fill you. The Holy Spirit can dwell in you.
I remember the day that I first knew that the Holy Spirit "shall be in you."
More From John 14
18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Preaching
Philippians 1
15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:
This passage suggests some conflict among the Philippians, possibly involving self-seeking Judaizing, but conflict just the same. I personally, would never underestimate the harm that can come from contentious preaching.
But, in the end, Paul's conclusion is, if they preach Jesus, they are acceptable:
Philippians 1
18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:
This passage suggests some conflict among the Philippians, possibly involving self-seeking Judaizing, but conflict just the same. I personally, would never underestimate the harm that can come from contentious preaching.
But, in the end, Paul's conclusion is, if they preach Jesus, they are acceptable:
Philippians 1
18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Daily, Righteous Life
Romans 14
16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:
17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Here, Paul warns us that we are spoken evil of because of the little, insignificant, stupid things we do. Things, however, that somehow get noticed.
After we are saved, we must learn to be Christian. To me, passages that help us to live a daily, righteous, humble life are most important. This is a simple, clear doctrine that each and every one of us can understand and, hopefully, joyfully accept.
16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:
17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Here, Paul warns us that we are spoken evil of because of the little, insignificant, stupid things we do. Things, however, that somehow get noticed.
After we are saved, we must learn to be Christian. To me, passages that help us to live a daily, righteous, humble life are most important. This is a simple, clear doctrine that each and every one of us can understand and, hopefully, joyfully accept.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
What Is Important?
Romans 14
1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
In this chapter Paul continues to discuss the subject of the righteousness of the law versus the righteousness of faith. It is about Hebrew ceremonial activities and the Christian liberty from these activities.
In passing, Paul seems to suggest that weak Christians are those who follow Hebrew dietary and feast day laws, and strong Christians are those who exercise Christian liberty and do not follow those laws of Moses. I sense that the issue of weak Christians versus strong Christians is not very important.
So, what is important?
More From Romans 14
3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
In this chapter Paul continues to discuss the subject of the righteousness of the law versus the righteousness of faith. It is about Hebrew ceremonial activities and the Christian liberty from these activities.
In passing, Paul seems to suggest that weak Christians are those who follow Hebrew dietary and feast day laws, and strong Christians are those who exercise Christian liberty and do not follow those laws of Moses. I sense that the issue of weak Christians versus strong Christians is not very important.
So, what is important?
More From Romans 14
3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
Friday, October 22, 2010
The Messiah Returns
Isaiah 63
1 Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.
This chapter is about the grand return of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
More From Isaiah 63
3 I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment.
And this is about the works of Jesus, the Messiah, and his vengeance. The people who were "none for me" are the grapes that He tramples. Their blood stains His garments.
Whoa.....
I guess Christ has many names. Here it is Christ, the avenger. And that's alright. But, my first thought of Christ will always be Christ, the reconciler.
1 Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.
This chapter is about the grand return of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
More From Isaiah 63
3 I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment.
And this is about the works of Jesus, the Messiah, and his vengeance. The people who were "none for me" are the grapes that He tramples. Their blood stains His garments.
Whoa.....
I guess Christ has many names. Here it is Christ, the avenger. And that's alright. But, my first thought of Christ will always be Christ, the reconciler.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
These Are They Whom The LORD Hath Sent To Walk To And Fro Through The Earth
Zechariah 1
8 I saw by night, and behold a man riding upon a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle trees that were in the bottom; and behind him were there red horses, speckled, and white.
This passage gave me goose bumps before I studied it. And I don't know why. Before I had even an inkling as to what it might mean, the image of these men, riding horses, sent by God to walk to and fro through the earth, were etched on my brain.
In the end, after some consideration, I find this passage truly does contain good words, and comforting words. Here is how I understand it:
Zechariah 1 (Edited)
8 I saw by night, and behold a man riding upon a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle trees that were in the bottom; and behind him were there red horses, speckled, and white.
10 And the man that stood among the myrtle trees answered and said, These are they whom the LORD hath sent to walk to and fro through the earth.
13 And the LORD answered the angel that talked with me with good words and comfortable words.
16 ....thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies....
17 ....and the LORD shall yet comfort Zion, and shall yet choose Jerusalem.
8 I saw by night, and behold a man riding upon a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle trees that were in the bottom; and behind him were there red horses, speckled, and white.
This passage gave me goose bumps before I studied it. And I don't know why. Before I had even an inkling as to what it might mean, the image of these men, riding horses, sent by God to walk to and fro through the earth, were etched on my brain.
In the end, after some consideration, I find this passage truly does contain good words, and comforting words. Here is how I understand it:
Zechariah 1 (Edited)
8 I saw by night, and behold a man riding upon a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle trees that were in the bottom; and behind him were there red horses, speckled, and white.
10 And the man that stood among the myrtle trees answered and said, These are they whom the LORD hath sent to walk to and fro through the earth.
13 And the LORD answered the angel that talked with me with good words and comfortable words.
16 ....thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies....
17 ....and the LORD shall yet comfort Zion, and shall yet choose Jerusalem.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Dim Glimmer Of God's Truth
Ezekiel 1
4 And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the color of amber, out of the midst of the fire.
5 Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of a man.
In passages from Zechariah, Ezekiel, Revelations, what some of us get is only a dim glimpse of God's profound truth, God's glory. And that dim glimpse is, wonderful....
Webster's 1828 Dictionary
GLIMPSE
1. A weak faint light.
2. A flash of light; as the lightning's glimpse.
3. Transient luster.
4. A short transitory view.
5. Short fleeting enjoyment; as a glimpse of delight.
6. Exhibition of a faint resemblance.
4 And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the color of amber, out of the midst of the fire.
5 Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of a man.
In passages from Zechariah, Ezekiel, Revelations, what some of us get is only a dim glimpse of God's profound truth, God's glory. And that dim glimpse is, wonderful....
Webster's 1828 Dictionary
GLIMPSE
1. A weak faint light.
2. A flash of light; as the lightning's glimpse.
3. Transient luster.
4. A short transitory view.
5. Short fleeting enjoyment; as a glimpse of delight.
6. Exhibition of a faint resemblance.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Who Is The Watchman
Isaiah 62
6 I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence,
7 And give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.
Do a little reading and you find that the watchmen could be angels or kings or mourners or princes or civil magistrates. The phrase is powerful and triggers thoughts of our fears and also thoughts of those who protect us. I believe watchmen are the prophets of the Old Testament and ministers of the Gospel in the New Testament.
The rest of the passage suggests we pray and pray until Jesus, the Messiah, comes.....
6 I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence,
7 And give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.
Do a little reading and you find that the watchmen could be angels or kings or mourners or princes or civil magistrates. The phrase is powerful and triggers thoughts of our fears and also thoughts of those who protect us. I believe watchmen are the prophets of the Old Testament and ministers of the Gospel in the New Testament.
The rest of the passage suggests we pray and pray until Jesus, the Messiah, comes.....
Monday, October 18, 2010
Local Church Or Body Of Christ
Romans 15
5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:
6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.
Who is Paul addressing here? The local church of Rome? Or the body of Christ.?
Either way, this is just a difficult standard to live up to. It is especially difficult standard for those disperate members the body of Christ.
5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:
6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.
Who is Paul addressing here? The local church of Rome? Or the body of Christ.?
Either way, this is just a difficult standard to live up to. It is especially difficult standard for those disperate members the body of Christ.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Difficult Doctrine
Romans 9
21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?
Here, in the 21st Century, I find this passage to be difficult. How should it be explained? How should it be applied?
More From Romans 9
22 What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:
23 And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory...
Maybe there are passages that are best not discussed. And, here is the Old Testamen echo of Romans 9:21:
Isaiah 64
8 But now, O LORD, thou [art] our father; we [are] the clay, and thou our potter; and we all [are] the work of thy hand.
21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?
Here, in the 21st Century, I find this passage to be difficult. How should it be explained? How should it be applied?
More From Romans 9
22 What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:
23 And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory...
Maybe there are passages that are best not discussed. And, here is the Old Testamen echo of Romans 9:21:
Isaiah 64
8 But now, O LORD, thou [art] our father; we [are] the clay, and thou our potter; and we all [are] the work of thy hand.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Our Use Of The Law
Romans 7
7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.
How should we use the law, that is found in the Old Testament?
This is an important consideration, if you are studying theology. On the other hand, if you're just trying to get through the day, with a little God-pleasing humility, then the answer is easy.
Follow it, as best as you can....
7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.
How should we use the law, that is found in the Old Testament?
This is an important consideration, if you are studying theology. On the other hand, if you're just trying to get through the day, with a little God-pleasing humility, then the answer is easy.
Follow it, as best as you can....
Friday, October 15, 2010
Defiling Graven Images
Isaiah 30
19 For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee.
20 And [though] the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not thy teachers be removed into a corner any more, but thine eyes shall see thy teachers:
21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This [is] the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
22 Ye shall defile also the covering of thy graven images of silver, and the ornament of thy molten images of gold: thou shalt cast them away as a menstruous cloth; thou shalt say unto it, Get thee hence.
Here is a prophesy of happy times to come for righteous Hebrews. And, part of the prophesy, in verse 22, shows the Hebrews defiling graven images.
This really is a wonderful, comforting prophesy. But, in all honesty, I do not understand the need for the vivid imagery of verse 22. I just do not understand.
19 For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee.
20 And [though] the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not thy teachers be removed into a corner any more, but thine eyes shall see thy teachers:
21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This [is] the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
22 Ye shall defile also the covering of thy graven images of silver, and the ornament of thy molten images of gold: thou shalt cast them away as a menstruous cloth; thou shalt say unto it, Get thee hence.
Here is a prophesy of happy times to come for righteous Hebrews. And, part of the prophesy, in verse 22, shows the Hebrews defiling graven images.
This really is a wonderful, comforting prophesy. But, in all honesty, I do not understand the need for the vivid imagery of verse 22. I just do not understand.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Sold Under Sin
Romans 7
14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
Slavery is the metaphor here. Even though I am saved, I am sold, like a slave, under sin. Even though I am saved, I am enslaved to sin.
More From Romans 7
18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not.
You get saved. And then, you begin your the grand, glorious struggle with the flesh.....
14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
Slavery is the metaphor here. Even though I am saved, I am sold, like a slave, under sin. Even though I am saved, I am enslaved to sin.
More From Romans 7
18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not.
You get saved. And then, you begin your the grand, glorious struggle with the flesh.....
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The Hebrews
Romans 10
8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
In this passage, we find that the Hebrews are not saved.
More From Romans 10
1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
The keys to heaven, for the Jew and the Gentile alike: faith and Christ. On the other hand, I don't think this is going to be my last word on the Hebrews.
8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
In this passage, we find that the Hebrews are not saved.
More From Romans 10
1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
The keys to heaven, for the Jew and the Gentile alike: faith and Christ. On the other hand, I don't think this is going to be my last word on the Hebrews.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
A Note On Stewardship
Romans 15
25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.
26 For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.
27 It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.
This is one of the key passages on church order, and it, no doubt, merits considerable attention.
Here, it appears that Paul is exhorting Romans to be charitable to the needful members of body of Christ. It is their "duty." He uses as an example the Christians in Macedonia and Achaia and their contribution to the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem to help them to meet their "carnal" needs.
Psalms 112
1 ....Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD,
that delighteth greatly in his commandments....
9 ....he hath given to the poor;
his righteousness endureth for ever;
his horn shall be exalted with honor.
25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.
26 For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.
27 It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.
This is one of the key passages on church order, and it, no doubt, merits considerable attention.
Here, it appears that Paul is exhorting Romans to be charitable to the needful members of body of Christ. It is their "duty." He uses as an example the Christians in Macedonia and Achaia and their contribution to the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem to help them to meet their "carnal" needs.
Psalms 112
1 ....Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD,
that delighteth greatly in his commandments....
9 ....he hath given to the poor;
his righteousness endureth for ever;
his horn shall be exalted with honor.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Righteousness - Faith and Works
Romans 10
4 For Christ [is] the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.
6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)
7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)
8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach.
This chapter is about the righteousness available to Christians through faith. It echos the following passage from Deuteronomy, which is about righteousness available to Jews through works described in Deuteronomy. [The echos are italicized].
Deuteronomy 30
8 And thou shalt return and obey the voice of the LORD, and do all his commandments which I command thee this day.
9 And the LORD thy God will make thee plenteous in every work of thine hand, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy land, for good: for the LORD will again rejoice over thee for good, as he rejoiced over thy fathers:
10 If thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes which are written in this book of the law, [and] if thou turn unto the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul.
11 For this commandment which I command thee this day, it [is] not hidden from thee, neither [is] it far off.
12 It [is] not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
13 Neither [is] it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
14 But the word [is] very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.
These passages are intertwined and difficult. I was only able to understand these words of Paul by some considerable study of Gill, Jamieson, Fausett and Brown.
Something, only marginally related, occurred to me while studying these passages. It seems to me that the word righteous has come to be considered antiquated. The word in its current common form appears to be self-righteous.
4 For Christ [is] the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.
6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)
7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)
8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach.
This chapter is about the righteousness available to Christians through faith. It echos the following passage from Deuteronomy, which is about righteousness available to Jews through works described in Deuteronomy. [The echos are italicized].
Deuteronomy 30
8 And thou shalt return and obey the voice of the LORD, and do all his commandments which I command thee this day.
9 And the LORD thy God will make thee plenteous in every work of thine hand, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy land, for good: for the LORD will again rejoice over thee for good, as he rejoiced over thy fathers:
10 If thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes which are written in this book of the law, [and] if thou turn unto the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul.
11 For this commandment which I command thee this day, it [is] not hidden from thee, neither [is] it far off.
12 It [is] not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
13 Neither [is] it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?
14 But the word [is] very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.
These passages are intertwined and difficult. I was only able to understand these words of Paul by some considerable study of Gill, Jamieson, Fausett and Brown.
Something, only marginally related, occurred to me while studying these passages. It seems to me that the word righteous has come to be considered antiquated. The word in its current common form appears to be self-righteous.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
The Salvation Of The Jews (Part 3 of 3)
A word about the Jewish remnant and one of my favorite Bible passages . I am intrigued by, but don't really understand, the idea of Jesus preaching to the spirits in prison in the days of Noah. Here is the passage:
1 Peter 3
18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
Based on the previous two blog posts, it appears that the fate of the spirits in prison may be interpreted in two ways. On the one hand, if we look to Romans 11:26, the spirits in prison will be finally saved when the fullness of the gentiles comes in. On the other hand, if we look to Romans 11:5, the spirits may not be included as part of the Jewish remnant and will, in the end, shall cast into a furnace of fire, where there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
But all of this is God's business, which I may not need to concern myself with. And, my conclusion is as with my previous post:
Romans 11
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
1 Peter 3
18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
Based on the previous two blog posts, it appears that the fate of the spirits in prison may be interpreted in two ways. On the one hand, if we look to Romans 11:26, the spirits in prison will be finally saved when the fullness of the gentiles comes in. On the other hand, if we look to Romans 11:5, the spirits may not be included as part of the Jewish remnant and will, in the end, shall cast into a furnace of fire, where there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
But all of this is God's business, which I may not need to concern myself with. And, my conclusion is as with my previous post:
Romans 11
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
The Salvation Of The Jews (Part 2 of 3)
Romans 11
5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
This passage is about the Jewish remnant that is elect for salvation. So, here's a question. How is this passage reconciled to the following passage, later in the chapter, which I wrote about yesterday?
More From Romans 11
26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
Some questions. Are all Jews to be save? Or is only a remnant of Jews to be saved? I thought I really had this issue figured out yesterday. I guess not.
Here are some comforting words of explanation, again from the same chapter, on difficult subjects likek the salvation of the Jews:
Romans 11
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
And finally, words to live by:
Romans 11
20 .... Be not highminded, but fear...
5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
This passage is about the Jewish remnant that is elect for salvation. So, here's a question. How is this passage reconciled to the following passage, later in the chapter, which I wrote about yesterday?
More From Romans 11
26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
Some questions. Are all Jews to be save? Or is only a remnant of Jews to be saved? I thought I really had this issue figured out yesterday. I guess not.
Here are some comforting words of explanation, again from the same chapter, on difficult subjects likek the salvation of the Jews:
Romans 11
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
And finally, words to live by:
Romans 11
20 .... Be not highminded, but fear...
Friday, October 8, 2010
The Salvation Of The Jews (Part 1 of 3)
Romans 11
25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Here, Paul tells gentile Christians that God's covenants with Israel will not be fulfilled, until, the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
I forgot, with all the news and comotion about Israel, the Jews and the Palestinians, just how explicit God's New Testament plan for the Jews is.
More From Romans 11
26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
I remember reading that this passage makes Jews in Israel uncomfortable....
25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Here, Paul tells gentile Christians that God's covenants with Israel will not be fulfilled, until, the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
I forgot, with all the news and comotion about Israel, the Jews and the Palestinians, just how explicit God's New Testament plan for the Jews is.
More From Romans 11
26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
I remember reading that this passage makes Jews in Israel uncomfortable....
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Stumblingblocks
4 Romans 14
13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
In our churches, how should disputes about doctrine, rituals and modes of worship be dealt with?
Note that this passage is not about what to do when we find out that a brother goes out with co-workers on Fridays, gets drunk and acts stupid, and somehow usually ends up in church on Sunday? The subject of this passage appears to be narrowly about modes of Christian and Jewish ritual, I think.....
More From Romans 14
12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
I have given this passage some thought, and am not at all sure of how it might be applied. I think I'll file it under church order, for future consideration.
13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
In our churches, how should disputes about doctrine, rituals and modes of worship be dealt with?
Note that this passage is not about what to do when we find out that a brother goes out with co-workers on Fridays, gets drunk and acts stupid, and somehow usually ends up in church on Sunday? The subject of this passage appears to be narrowly about modes of Christian and Jewish ritual, I think.....
More From Romans 14
12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
I have given this passage some thought, and am not at all sure of how it might be applied. I think I'll file it under church order, for future consideration.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
What Is More Important? What Is Less Important?
Matthew 23
23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
There appear to be higher and lower levels of doctrine. What ever else you do in life, Jesus says three things are important: judgement, mercy and faith.
Micah 6
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
There appear to be higher and lower levels of doctrine. What ever else you do in life, Jesus says three things are important: judgement, mercy and faith.
Micah 6
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Preachers
Romans 10
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
So, where would we be without our preachers, who have a real concern for the good of souls, and the glory of Christ?
More From Romans 10
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
In a word, nowhere...
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
So, where would we be without our preachers, who have a real concern for the good of souls, and the glory of Christ?
More From Romans 10
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
In a word, nowhere...
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Walking Toward The Lord
Ephesians 5
1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
2 and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor.
I have come to believe, after some thought, that you are either walking away from the Lord, walking toward the Lord or walking with the Lord.
I spent over fifty years, mostly walking toward the Lord.
1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
2 and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor.
I have come to believe, after some thought, that you are either walking away from the Lord, walking toward the Lord or walking with the Lord.
I spent over fifty years, mostly walking toward the Lord.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Tortured Soul
Romans 7
22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
24 O wretched man that I am...
Paul, Saint Paul, who brings us such a wealth of spiritual gifts, here seems such a tortured, pathetic soul. Then again, this passage is truely a special gift to all that need it....
22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
24 O wretched man that I am...
Paul, Saint Paul, who brings us such a wealth of spiritual gifts, here seems such a tortured, pathetic soul. Then again, this passage is truely a special gift to all that need it....
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