Complete & Equipped

Colossians, Chapter 4

2009-09-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

Masters, give your servants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. Keep in mind that you are also a "servant", and that you answer to a higher Boss.

Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;

meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains,
Even in prison for his evangelism, he still wants an opportunity to preach! By the way, he was in prison for making it known that God's grace was available to the Gentiles!

that I may make it manifest (to make visible that has been hidden), as I ought to speak.

walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.
Be wise as you speak to unbelievers, taking advantage of opportunities to share Jesus.

Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. This may instruct us in a pattern to follow - have grace (not anger, not desire to win an argument, etc), but carry that grace with truth.

Tychicus, who is beloved brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me.

I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts,

with Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will make known to you all things which are happening here.
(remember that Onesimus was a runaway slave that Paul led to the Lord while in prison. He pleaded to Philemon, who lived in Colosse, to receive him back)

Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, with Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him),

and Jesus who is called Justus. These are my only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision; (they are Jews who believe in Jesus) they have proved to be a comfort to me,

Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently (literally: struggling with adversary) for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

for I hear him witness that he has a great zeal for you, and those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis. (Colosse, Laodicea and Hierapolis were in close proximity to each other)

Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you.
Sadly, in 1 Timothy, Paul says of Demas "for Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world"

Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house.
Nymphas was a wealthy and zealous Christian in Laodicea. It is unclear if this is a woman or man.

Now when this epistle is read among you, see that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. Apparently, Paul also wrote other letters that were not necessarily meant to be scripture.

And say to Archippus, "Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it. Archippus was a teacher in Colosse. Paul wants him to understand this ministry that God has given him so that he may complete it.

This salutation by my own hand - Paul.
Most likely this was dictated by Paul, but signed by him. In the Greek, it includes this: "Written from Rome to Colossians by Tychicus and Onesimus"

Remember my chains.

Grace be with you. Amen.

A Bible With All the Words - John Piper

2009-08-19T06:41:00.000-07:00

Thought this was an important point in our Bible reading...

Colossians, Chapter 3

2009-08-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

If then you were raised (raised up together from mortal death to a new and blessed life dedicated to God) with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. (a place of honor and authority)

Set (direct) your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.

In the previous verses, at the end of the previous chapter, he was talking about not subjecting yourself to the rules and regulations of man-made religion. So here he continues to tell us that IF indeed we are raised with Christ, we are to seek heavenly treasures, and NOT approval by our works!

For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

When Christ who is our life appears,then you also will appear with Him in glory.

Therefore (because your life is with Christ) put to death your members (the sinful parts of us) which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

Because of these things (sins mentioned above) the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience,

in which you also once walked when you lived in them.
Remember this so that we don't get self righteous: We also once walked in those sins. It says here that we "lived in those sins". We may stumble, but we should not actually LIVE in those sins now.

but now you must also put off all these: anger, wrath (anger boiling up), malice (desire to injure), blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.
In addition to those listed previously, put these off too. This list is made up of things we SAY.

Do not lie (tell falsehood or deceive) to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds,
that would be part of the old nature, not of our new Christlike nature

and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him,
"Put on" is as literally "putting on clothes".
Interesting that it says we are "renewed in knowledge" Does this mean that God renews our knowledge, or that we are renewed by the knowledge? Could probably be both. Once we are renewed, God opens our eyes to scripture truths, and also, as we learn more about our God, we are renewed by the power of His word.

where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.
Barbarians were seen as any foreigner to the Greek language, with the added notion of rudeness/harshness. Scythians were regarded by the more civilized nations of antiquity, as the wildest of barbarians.

This says that it does not matter - from the most religious to the most barbaric, Christ is sufficient for all. So we are to put on the new man, because there is no differentiation when we are in Christ.

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another, even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

So because there is no differentiation, and because Christ is sufficient for everyone, be kind, merciful, humble, patient, forgiving, and put up with each other. For we are all the same in Him. Remember, we all lived in our sins at one time.

But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.
If our motive is love, the other things fall into place.

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
literally: determine to let God's peace be the thing that rules in your heart. This is what we were called to do in one body.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly (let the teachings of Christ be in you and influence you abundantly) in all wisdom (use of knowledge), teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace (loving kindness) in your hearts to the Lord.
In original language the phrase "admonishing one another" is actually listed as meaning "exhorting themselves". As a "body", the church is to exhort itself.

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Anything you say or do, should be done in Jesus name, with gratitude to Him.

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
Submit=a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating, assuming responsibility, and carrying a burden. Borrowed from the military "under rank".
“Anyone who has served in the armed forces knows that ‘rank’ has to do with order and authority, not with value or ability.” (Wiersbe)
Also, this does not make women under submission to men in general. This is submission to your OWN husband.

Husbands, love (agape) your wives and do not be bitter (deal bitterly with) toward them.
Does this infer that the wife has done something to earn the bitterness of her husband towards her? Maybe. But "Agape" love is a self denying, giving love. Agape loves even when there are obvious deficiencies, even when the receiver is unworthy of the love.
The husband is commanded to love his wife as Christ loved the church, and Christ died for us while we were yet sinners and undeserving of His love.

Children, obey your parents in all things for this is well pleasing to the Lord.

Fathers, do not provoke your children (do not stir them up), lest them become discouraged.
This literally means to stop stirring up you child to anger, so that they would not lose heart, or "give up". There are a variety of ways that a child could be stirred up angrily to the point of being despondent.

Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service (not just when they are watching), as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God (with reverence to God).

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as the Lord and not to men,
Interestingly enough, the word translated as "heartily", means "away from". Everything we do needs to be separated as a work for God, as opposed to a work for a man.

knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
Do things as unto God, because you know that God is repaying you with your eternal inheritance, and because really, He's the one we are serving.

But he who does wrong will be repaid for the wrong which he has done, and there is no partiality.
Doesn't matter if you are religious or a barbarian, if you do wrong, you will receive payment for the wrong.

Colossians, Chapter 2

2009-08-02T09:07:00.001-07:00

For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh,
He had great concern and care for them, even though he had not been to Colosse.

that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ,
He wanted them to be encouraged, be in unity and have full understanding for God.

in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words.
This statement appears to refer to the previous one, of wisdom and knowledge being hidden in Christ. He may be saying, "I'm saying this just in case anyone tries to convince you of something else." Some bible teachers believe that the "Colossian heresy" was a “preview” of gnosticism - those who prized gnosis (knowledge), which were presented as deep, hidden mysteries. If that is the case, then he is stressing that wisdom and knowledge are good, but only if they are rooted in Jesus. We should not seek wisdom and knowledge with no regard to Jesus.

For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.

As you have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,

rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.
It appears that they are true believers and have true faith in Jesus, and he is encouraging them to keep on with it.

Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.
So much to say regarding this one! 1) Philosopy 2) Men's traditions, and 3) this world's principles - many are against Christ! And so much of it can sound nice and even have a little bit of "God" in it to make is sound right. But that's the deception. We must make sure that all we believe is "according to Christ". It was true back then for the Colossians, and it is true for us now in this world.

For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; Jesus if FULLY God in the flesh.
and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. We are complete and need nothing else to make us right or whole. He has all authority, even over spiritual beings!

In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ,
Most Colossians were Gentiles who were not circumcised. Paul wanted them to know that the physical circumcision was not important at this point. They had been "spiritually circumcised" and that the work that Christ did was sufficient. He did not want them to think that they had to follow the "rules" of the old covenant. Even the Old Testament refers to "circumcision of the heart in (Deuteronomy 10:16 and 30:6)

buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.
Paul illustrates baptism as our identification with the death and resurrection life of Jesus. We were buried with Jesus, and buried under the water. We are also raised with Him, and raised up out of the water.

And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh. He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses
We were dead in our sins and not part of Him. Now he has made us forgiven and alive with Him.

having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the Cross. This verse shows that we are not under the law anymore. He wiped away the requirements that we could never attain, and has put His sacrifice on the Cross in its place.

Having disarmed principalities and powers. He made a public spectacle (made an example of them) of them, triumphing over them in it. The Cross was the final victory. It removed any power that any spiritial beings had - they are disarmed! They can do nothing except create fear and deception. Not only that, but he made a spectacle of them!

Therefore let no one judge you in a food or drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths,
Remember, whenever you see "therefore" in the bible...you have to ask why it's "there for". It usually refers to what has just been said. In this verse, he has just discussed Jesus doing away with the law and having full victory with the Cross. So because of all that, let no one judge you in matters regarding legalism.

which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.
All those previous rules of the Old TEstament weren't bad, they were merely a "shadow" of things to come. They might have shown the "shape" of God, but the actual substance is Jesus. We can keep a kosher diet, or observe the Sabbath if we want, but those things do not get us any closer to God.

Let no on defraud you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,
Those "deceivers" were probably self righteous religious people, who took great pride in their religiousness, and who worshiped anything spiritual, and even believed their own deceptions.

and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase which is from God
They did not hold Jesus above all their religious practices.

Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations -
Why, if we believe in the sufficiency of what Jesus did on the Cross, do we keep these powerless attempts to earn His favor???

"Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle"
Man-made religion seems to be a lot about what you cannot do.

which all concern things which perish with the the using - according to the commandments, and doctrines of men? Legalism

These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.
Following all the unnecessary rules might make us appear to be more religious, but they have no value in our salvation.

Colossians, Chapter 1

2009-05-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

Paul, an apostle (messenger) of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse:

Paul wrote this while in prison. Collose was a small city. It wasn't mentioned in the Book of Acts. Historically, Colosse was prosperous, and famous (with other cities in its region) for its fabric dyes. But by Paul’s time, its glory as a city was on the decline.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

We give thanks for the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints;

because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, which has come to you, as it has also in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth;

Paul is thankful for them and prays always for them. They believe in Jesus, They love other believers, They are bringing forth fruit.

as you also learned from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf who also declared to us your love in the Spirit.

Epaphras is a Colossian who took the Gospel to Colosse. In the book of Philemon, he is mentioned as a "fellow prisoner" of Paul.

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding:

that you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and long suffering with joy:

He prays:
-That they would know God's will and have spiritual understanding
-That they would walk a Godly walk (which would be be to be fruitful in works and increase in the knowledge of God)
-That they would be strengthened by His power to endure with joy

giving thanks to the Father who has qualified (fitted for a given purpose) us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.
We are "qualified" by Jesus who has made us acceptable by his death. It is not our works that qualify us; He has done it. We receive an "inheritance" as opposed to something "earned".

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and translated (change from one place, state, form to another) us into the kingdom of the Son of His love

(It is one or the other: darkness or His Kingdom)

in whom we have redemption (release by payment of ransom) through His blood, the forgiveness (letting them go as if they had never been committed) of sins

He is the image of the invisible God,
By Jesus, we can know God. He gives a face to the God that seemed unknowable before.

the firstborn over all creation,
He is before everything created, and above everything created. Literally, it means "first in rank".

for by the Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth visible and invisible whether thrones or dominions or principalities or power. All things were created through Him and for him.
Jesus was not "created" when He was born. He is God and is the author of all creation. He has authority over all things AND all spiritual beings.

And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.
He always existed and He has authority over everything.

And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.
He is the life of the Church, the Lord of the Church, the origin of the Church. He came from the dead that He would be over all.

For it pleased the father that in Him all the fullness should dwell
Fullness =completion, Dwell = permanently remain. Jesus IS the fulfillment, and ever shall be.

and by Him to reconcile all things to himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. He made peace with God for us by His death and the judgment He took upon Himself on our behalf. In actuality, we do not make our "peace with God". He made our peace with God, and our part is to believe it or not.

And you, who once were alienated (literally: transferred to another owner) and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled.
We were estranged from Him and even thought hostilely towards Him because of our sinful nature and deeds. Yet he has brought us to a state of harmony with Him.

He has reconciled us...in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and blameless, and irreproachable (blameless) in His sight -

if indeed you continue in the faith grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.
This sounds like he is saying that Jesus presents us holy and blameless IF we continue in the faith (not in the works which come naturally from the faith), grounded and steadfast and do not move away from the truth we have heard. Continuance is the evidence of our true faith.

I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions (great suffering) of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church,
He is joyful as he suffers the persecution of the Church, and even his body is strengthened as he suffers for the cause of Jesus.

...the church...of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God
God entrusted Paul with His church.

the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints.
God didn't reveal everything about His great plan of salvation for many generations, but with Jesus, it has been revealed to believers.

To them (the saints) God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
God wanted to reveal the mystery. "Among the Gentiles"...perhaps the great mystery was that the ENTIRE world, even Gentiles would be saved through Jesus.

Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.
We must not just teach, but we must also WARN. We must not just warn, but also TEACH, so that ALL would believe.

To this end (of presenting every man perfect in Jesus) I also labor, striving (to contend, to struggle) according to His working which works in me mightily.
God gives him might to continue that work.

Galatians, Chapter 6

2009-04-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

Brethren, If a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. The person who has fallen must not be ignored, excused, or destroyed. The goal should always be to restore a fallen brother. This is not referring to an unbeliever. We must be gentle, and also consider that we are not above falling into sin as well.

Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. If we see a brother/sister who are burdened, we need to help. By helping him, we fulfill the law of Christ in which He said: "love one another; as I have loved you."

For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

These previous three lines are all related. To summarize: Help a brother/sister when they're down. Help them carry their burden. Be careful though, that you are not tempted, because if you think you're something better, you might not be.

But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. I find this verse kind of confusing. It may mean that we should examine ourselves and rejoice if our work is pleasing to God..?

For each one shall bear his own load.
We are to bear our own load, but also help others with their burdens. The word "load" here can be understood as "backpack", but the word "burdens" above, means 'heavy burdens" or more than a man should carry. In other words, we are all responsible for our own work, but need to be ready to help others with their heavy burdens.

Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. Again, we are all to help each other.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. If we are ready to help others, then when we are in need, our brothers/sisters will be ready to help us.

For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. If we invest in fleshly desires, the results will be corruption, but if we invest in the Spirit, the results will have eternal value.

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. The harvest does not come immediately after sowing the seed. There is waiting involved and we are to be patient.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. Lets be ready for the opportunities to do good with preference to our brothers/sisters.

See with what large letters I have written to you with my own hand! It was customary to Paul, and common at that time to dictate the letter to a secretary. Paul seems to be emphasizing that he really means what he's saying because he's writing it himself!

As many as desire to make a good showing in the flesh, these try to compel (literally: "force") you to be circumcised only that they may not suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. The motives of those who are trying to get you to depend on "works" are to look good outwardly, and because they do not want to suffer persecution by trusting in the Cross.

For not even those who are circumcised keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh. No one can totally keep the law, they just want to be religious and make a show outwardly and want to drag you along with them.

But God forbid that I should glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. We should not desire the "status" among men that being "religious" brings. We should desire only the grace that saved us by the cross. The world is dead to me and I am dead to the world.

For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation. Neither (circumcision/uncicumcision) has power. The only power comes in being a totally new creation.

And as many as walk according to this rule ("The carpenter’s or surveyor’s line by which a direction is taken"), peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.

From now on let no one trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.
To ancient oriental usage, slaves and soldiers bore the name or the stamp of their master or commander branded or pricked (cut) into their bodies to indicate what master or general they belonged to.

"Most likely what Paul means is that the scars of the things he had suffered for Christ are the brands which show him to be Christ’s slave.” (Barclay)

Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen
He ended by emphasizing "grace" one more time.

Galatians, Chapter 5

2009-04-27T21:32:00.000-07:00

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. Careful not to get caught up doing works for God's approval. Stay firm in the freedom that Jesus gave us!

Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing.

and I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is a debtor to keep the whole law. Obeying the law will not get you anywhere unless you keep the entire law, which no one can do.

You have become estranged from Christ, (literally: Christ has become of no effect unto you) you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. "Fallen from grace" is a phrase I didn't realize was in the bible. I thought it meant to fall into sin - which technically is true - but it actually means to start to work your way to God. You have fallen from Grace back down to works.

For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. We are made righteous through faith in Jesus.

For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love. Once again, his point is that we are made righteous through faith and not works.

You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? They were doing well, but he wants to know who came in and deceived them with this talk of works.

This persuasion does not come from Him who calls you. This can't be from God
A little leaven leavens the whole lump. "leaven" is a substance (as yeast) used to produce fermentation in dough OR, something that modifies or lightens. His point is that a little bit of this will affect the entire population.

I have confidence in you, in the Lord, that you will have no other mind; but he who troubles you shall bear his judgment, whoever he is. He knows that they will return to the truth, and God will deal with the deceiver.

and I, brethren, If I still preach circumcision, why do I still suffer persecution? then the offense of the cross has ceased. Sounds like they may have been saying that he was preaching circumcision, or works. So his answer is, if that is the case, why is he being persecuted? Its the cross that offends people, so if he is teaching works, he should be loved by all. But he is still enduring persecutions, therefore, he must be teaching something that is ruffling feathers, which is faith in Jesus and NOT circumcision.

I could wish that those who trouble you would even cut themselves off! I looked this up, and literally, this translates that he wishes that those that are stumbling the Galatians would not only circumcise themselves, but that they would actually cut off the whole body part.

For you, brethren, have been called to liberty (liberty = omitting things that do not relate to salvation) ; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. Don't use freedom from "rules" to do as you please. We should not sin in the name of "freedom" with plans of repenting later.

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Let all you do be done with the a motive of love.

But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another! If we use our liberty to fulfill our own desires and spend time defending ourselves instead of doing things in love for each other, sooner or later we tear each other apart.

I say then: Walk (make your way, progress) in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. If we daily invite the Spirit to walk with us, instead of trying to obey rules, we will be strengthened spiritually

For the flesh (human nature) lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against eh flesh: and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish,. "Spirit" here is referring to the Holy Spirit. It is not referring to our spirit. Our flesh desires things that are are opposing to what God's Spirit wants for us, and vice versa. They are opposite. So we don't do the things we intend to do because of this ongoing battle.

But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. The big question is, how do we know if we are led by the Spirit? I would guess, believing what He says in His word, and operating in all things with a motive to please God, as opposed to "doing" things to earn our way with Him, which is being under the law.

Now the works (accomplishments) of the flesh are evident (plainly recognized), which are adultery, fornication, uncleanness (impure motives), licentiousness (excess, outrageousness),

Idolatry, sorcery (can mean witchcraft, or drugs), hatred, contentions (strife), jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, (heresies literally means "to choose". Those who practice heresies pick and choose what they want to or don't want to believe)

envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries (carousing), and the like: of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice (continually do, as opposed to stumbling once or twice) such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. If those things are plainly manifest in your life, you are obviously not walking in the Spirit.

But the fruit (results) of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering (patience, endurance), kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

gentleness , self control. Against such there is no law.

And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. We who are Christ's have done this - WE have crucified our flesh. It doesn't just happen when we believe. It is something that we deliberately have to do.

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk (proceed in line with) in the Spirit.

Let us not become conceited (desiring vain glory), provoking (irritating) one another, envying one another.

Galatians, Chapter 4

2008-11-10T06:08:00.000-08:00

Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all,

but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father. In Jewish custom, there is specific age where the child becomes a man. In Roman custom, the child became a man whenever the father thought he was ready. It is interesting that Paul did not use the Jewish custom as an example.

Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world. The phrase "elements of the world" literally means the first principles, or elementary knowledge.

but when the fullness of the time had come, (when the time was right) God sent forth His son, born of a woman, born under the law,

to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. He didn't just purchase us when He redeemed us, He adopted us.

and because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, "Abba, Father!" He sent the Holy Spirit to our hearts to give us affectionate love for God

Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

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

But now after you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn again to the weak and beggarly elements to which you desire again to be in bondage? Now that we know and are known by God, how could we go back to working for - or "begging" for His approval? He actually says that doing works to please God is being in BONDAGE.

You observe days and months and seasons and years. I'm guessing he means religious holidays and/or rituals?

I am afraid for you, lest I have labored for you in vain. If they go back to legalism, then his labor to them has been in vain.

Brethren, I urge you to become as I am, for I am as you are. You have not injured me at all. He encourages them to know their freedom through faith in Jesus, not legalism. He came out of was religion as well.

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

and my trial which was in my flesh you did not despise or reject, but you received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. It's believed that a medical condition led him to Galatia.

What then was the blessing you enjoyed? For I hear you witness that if possible, you would have plucked out your own eyes and given them to me. Could it have been an eye condition?

Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth? After how much they loved him, will they turn against him when he confronts them with the truth?

They zealously court you, but for no good; yes, they want to exclude you, that you may be zealous for them. He is speaking of Legalists here. They try to make you feel good, hoping to separate you from real believers.

but it is good to be zealous in a good thing always, and not only when I am present with you. It's ok to be zealous, as long as its for something good. Don't let the zeal be gone when the the preacher is done preaching.

My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you, Sounds like he felt he had to lead them to Christ again.

I would like to be present with you now and to change my tone; for I have doubts about you. Does he mean that he would like to see them face to face and be speak less harsh? As for his doubts about them - does this go hand in hand with the previous verse, that they need to come to Christ again?

Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not hear the law?

For it is written that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondwoman, the other by a free woman.

But he who was of the bondwoman was born according the flesh, and he of the free woman through promise, The son born of the bondwoman (Hagar) was born through the fleshly attempts of Abraham and Sarah to bring forth the heir. But this was not what God had promised.

which things are symbolic. For these are the two covenants; the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar - This represents the works of the flesh: The Law given on Mount Sinai, and the child born to Hagar, which was a plan to "Help God out".

for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children - He is speaking of the earthly Jerusalem, where Jews follow the law.

but the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all. Here he speaks of the new Jerusalem, which in in heaven and is to come.

For it is written:

"Rejoice, O barren,
You who do not bear!
Break forth and shout,
You who do not travail!
For the desolate has
many more children
Than she who has a husband"
A commentary on this verse says that he means that the children of the new covenant would outnumber the children of the old covenant. This is taken from Isaiah 54;1

Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise. Isaac was the son God promised Abraham. He was a miracle, requiring faith and trust in God.

But, as he who was born according to the flesh (Ishmael, Hagar's son) then persecuted him who was born accoridng to the Spirit, even so it is now. Legalism wars against faith

Nevertheless what does the Scripture say? Cast out the bondwoman and her sons, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman. Keeping the Law and working your way to God does not create an heir. Only faith in Jesus will create an heir

So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman but of the free. Therefore, we do not find our way to God through works of the flesh, but through trust in His promise.

Galatians, Chapter 3

2008-11-06T05:52:00.000-08:00

O foolish Galatians! The word foolish here is the Greek " anoetos" which is someone who can think but fails to use their power of perception.

Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ as clearly portrayed among you as crucified? I think he is here referring again to the idea that Jesus was not crucified in vain - so he reiterates that He was clearly portrayed as crucified.

This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Obviously the Holy Spirit was not something earned by trying to obey the law.

Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? In other words, are you so foolish that after receiving the Spirit in faith, you are now trying to earn Him by works?

Have you suffered so many things in vain - if indeed it was in vain? The Galatians had probably endured persecution for their faith.

Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? They know they received the Holy Spirit and saw miracles only through faith.

just as Abraham "believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness". Since he knows he is speaking to Jewish believers, he makes it a point to emphasize Abraham being righteous through faith.

Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham. It's not bloodlines that make us sons of Abraham, but our faith. In Matthew 3:9 John the Baptist said "do not think to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our father.” For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones"

And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the nations by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying "In you all the nations shall be blessed". This shows that the Word has power, as it preached the gospel to Abraham.

So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them". Under a curse because we cannot possibly accomplish keeping the law. Notice it says "everyone who does not continue on ALL things which are written..."

But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for "The just shall live by faith".

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

Christ has redeemed (paying a price to rescue) us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree")

that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. The blessing of Abraham was that he believed and it was accounted to him as righteousness - simply, faith.

Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man's covenant yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it. Even a covenant between men stands firm - how much more does one between God and man stand?

Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say "and to seeds", as of many but as of one, "And to your Seed" who is Christ.

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

For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise. God did not tell Abraham that if he kept the law, then he'd have he inheritance. He simply made a promise.

What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made; . It shows us God's standard, but it also shows us that we cannot attain God's standard, so it shows us our need for a Savior. It also says that it was added TILL THE SEED SHOULD COME. It is no longer our approach to God.

and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator does not mediate for one only, but God is one. According to tradition, the law was given to Moses through the hands of angels. Sounds like Paul is agreeing with that.

Is the law then against the promises of God? Certainly not! For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law.

But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. Scriptures identifies us all as sinners, and the promise is given to us with our faith/belief.

but before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. God showed His standards by the law, keeping men striving to attain it, until we could be redeemed by faith in Jesus.

Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. Tutor here is the Greek word, paidagogos. The paidagogos did not simply teach a child. More than that, it was the child’s guardian, watching over the child and his behavior. The idea is more of a nanny than of a teacher, and it could also discipline the child.

but after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.Then we are under the care of our Father.

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

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Remember a traditional prayer of a Jewish man at that time: in the morning Rabbis would thank God that he was not born a Gentile, a slave, or a woman. Interesting that Paul mentions each of these categories and makes them equal in Jesus.

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

Galatians, Chapter 2

2008-04-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and also took Titus with me. Remember he had had gone to Jerusalem 3 years after his conversion, and stayed with Peter for 15 days, then moved on to Syria and Cilicia. Now he's saying that he went back to Jerusalem

The first time Barnabas is mentioned is in Acts 4:36, where he sold his land and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. He was also the one who took Saul (Paul) to the apostles to convince them that Saul had seen the Lord, and that he was now preaching Him boldly. Paul and Barnabas continued together until Acts 15: 36-41, where they disagreed on whether or not they should take John Mark with them. They went separate ways at this point.
Titus, as you may recall, organized the church in Crete. He was a Greek (Gentile)

And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them (those in Jerusalem, the Jews) that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, (which is the one and only gospel he ever preached!) but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I might run, or had run, in vain. This sounds to me that he had to preach it privately, otherwise they would not have listened, fearing for their reputation. and if they had not listened, his trip there would have been useless.

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

But this (Titus not being circumcised) occurred because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage), to whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. This sounds as if Titus made a stand not to be enslaved again to legalism and "religion". Some people came among them, pretending to be believers, so that they could figure out the liberty that the Christians had. (Liberty would be "to omit things having no relationship to salvation".) These false brothers wanted to force them back into religious bondage. The Christians knew they could not submit to the religious bondage again - otherwise the Galatians might have given up on the truth of the gospel and return to their previous religiosity .

But from those who seemed to be something - whatever they were, it makes no difference to me; God shows personal favoritism to no man - for those who seemed to be something added nothing to me. It sounds like he is saying that the "important" guys - really added nothing to him. Since God doesn't show "favoritism", those who seemed important were just the same as others.
But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised had been committed to me, (Paul preached to the Gentiles) as the gospel for the circumcised was to Peter (Peter preached to the Jews) (for He who worked effectively in Peter for the apostleship to the circumcised also worked effectively in me toward the Gentiles), and when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised. They were accepted as brothers, and acknowledged that they had different, but valid callings.

They desired only that we should remember the poor, the very thing which I was also eager to do.

But when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed; for before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles: but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision.
Though Peter had been in agreement with welcoming Gentiles into the church without bringing them under the Law of Moses, when Peter came to Antioch (Paul’s home church), it was another story. He refused to associate with Gentile Christians because he was afraid of certain Jewish believers.

and the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy. The word hypocrite, in the original language of the Bible, means “one who puts on a mask,” referring to an actor. In this case, Peter, Barnabas, and the rest of the Jewish Christians in Antioch knew that these Gentile believers were really Christians. Yet, because of the pressure from the certain men from James, they acted like they were not Christians at all.

It says "Even Barnabas!" Barnabas was Paul's trusted friend, whom Paul had said was full of the Holy Spirit, yet he also refused to associate with the Gentile believers.

But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all,

Imagine the scene: there they are at the church of Antioch potluck. The Gentile Christians are being avoided. Peter – the honored guest – goes along with all this. Barnabas – the man who led many of the Gentiles to Jesus! – goes along with all this. The rest of the Jews in the church at Antioch go along with all this. But Paul won’t stand for it. Because this is a public affront to the Gentile Christians, and because it is a public denial of the truth of the gospel, Paul confronts Peter in a public way. And imagine who is telling who...Paul, who was known for persecuting Christians, is telling Peter, a disciple of Jesus...

"If you, being Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to live as Jew?
He is announcing that Peter does not live by the Law of Moses - exposing him in front of these men whom he was intimidated by.

We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.
He did a quick review on salvation

But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Certainly not! If we still sin after we are justified by Christ, then does Christ approve of our sin? Absolutely not!

For if I build again those things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. If he tries to build a way to God by going back to the Law to be righteous, he makes himself a sinner again. Essentially, Paul says “There is more sin in trying to find acceptance before God by our law-keeping than there is sin in everyday life as a Christian.”

For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. The law is not the way he is accepted by God. Also, note here that the law is not dead, but he is dead to the law. The law does its job to show us that we are guilty.

I have been crucified with Christ; He died to the law when Christ died on the cross.
it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain." Why would God sacrifice His Son if there was any other way for us to be saved?

Galatians, Chapter 1

2008-04-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

Paul, an apostle (An apostle is "one sent forth with orders").
(not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead),
Paul was sure about who called him to be an apostle! No man sent him on his mission. God Himself called Paul (see Acts Chapter 9)

and all the brethren who are with me,
He is writing this in unity with the other believers

To the churches of Galatia: (Galatia is a region, so there was more than just one church)

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ,
who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us (rescue us) from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

I marvel that you are turning away (literally, "transferring") so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another;
He is blown away that the Galatian believers are turning away from God so quickly! They are turning to a "different" gospel, yet Paul knows there is NO OTHER gospel.

but there are some who trouble you (cause inward commotion) and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. Some have twisted the true gospel and are teaching something not 100% accurate.

But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.
What did Paul preach? The Book of Acts (among the other Pauline Epistles) is a good place to look. Here are some examples:

Acts 9:20 - Paul preached that Christ is the Son of God
Acts 10:42, 43 - Peter preached that Jesus was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead, that the prophets speak of Him, that through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.
Acts 13:38, 19 - Paul preaches that through Jesus is the forgiveness of sins, and by Him anyone who believes is justified of all the things that could not be justified through the law of Moses.
Acts 17:3 - Paul preaches that Jesus is the Christ
Acts 17:24-31 This is a long one, but basically Paul preaches that God overlooked the ignorance of the past, but now He commands everyone to repent, that He will judge the world in righteousness through Jesus whom He raised from the dead.
Acts 18:28 - Apollos showed in the scriptures that Jesus is the Christ
At least twice, it is recorded that Paul told his conversion story.
Acts 26:20 - repent, turn to God, and do works befitting salvation
Acts 26: 23 - that Christ would suffer, rise from the dead and proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles
Acts 28:23 Paul taught about Jesus from the Law of Moses and the Prophets.
1 Corinthians 15:1-4 - That Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.

Anything else, no matter who it comes from, is not the gospel.

As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.
He repeats this. This seems to be a VERY important point. This tells me that I need to be careful who I learn from.

I read the following in a commentary:
Paul recognizes that this different gospel is not really another gospel at all. Those who promoted this different gospel perhaps said, “We know our message is different than Paul’s message. He has his truth, and we have ours. He has his gospel, and we have ours.” Paul rejects the idea that their message is a legitimate “alternative” gospel in any way.

For do I now persuade men, or God? Are we trying to convince men who God is, or are we trying to convince God to be what we want Him to be?

Or do I seek to please men? We should preach truth, even if people aren't "pleased".

For if I still pleased men, I would not be a servant of Christ. If my motive is to make people "feel good" and "comfortable", then I'm probably not preaching an accurate gospel.

But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Jesus revealed Himself to Paul. It was not something that he heard and decided to obey. It was something that he experienced.

For you have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it. Before Paul's conversion, when he was in the Jewish faith, Paul consented to the death of Stephen, a martyr. The Book of Acts says that Paul made "havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, putting them in prison". (Acts 7:58, 8: 1-3. Paul is called "Saul" here)

And I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers. He was high on the religious ladder!

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia and returned again to Damascus.

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and remained with him fifteen days.

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

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

Afterward I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; and I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea which were in Christ.

But they were hearing only, "He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith which he once tried to destroy." And they gloried God in me.

This all sounds as if Paul is saying:
Look, this isn't just something that I was taught as I grew up. Nor did I hang out with Christians and get convinced. In fact, I was really zealous in the religion I had grown up knowing. So much so, that I even persecuted Christians and put them in prison. But GOD HIMSELF revealed Himself to me. This was SUCH a work of God that the Christians are looking at me and glorifying God because they cant believe someone like me has been converted! How can you walk away from God who does this?

1 Thessalonians Chapter 5

2008-02-13T01:03:00.000-08:00

Paul continues with this chapter, after talking about having hope in our sorrow when others have "fallen asleep" (which I assume means death). He also speaks about the Lord coming down from heaven and us being caught up in the clouds to meet Him.

But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. He does not need to tell us "when" these things will happen

For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.
It's interesting to point out that it says that "the day" comes as a thief in the night - it does not say that Jesus comes as a thief in the night. Then, in the following passages, he goes on to say that we are "not of the night".

For when they say, 'Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.

But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.
The Day that Jesus returns will be bad for those who are "in darkness" - the unbelievers. The Day - the thief - will surprise and bring destruction to those in darkness. But to us who are in the light, it will not "overtake us" because we are not sitting in that darkness. The thief can't sneak in during the day, or in the light.

You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.

Therefore (because we are sons of light) let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober (calm, temperate, not influenced by strong feeling, circumspect)

For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. Those who are ignorant and drunken, are in darkness

But let us who are of the day (in the light) be sober, putting on the breastplate (breastplates protect the heart, and lungs - which are blood and breath - which are spirit and life) of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. (The helmet protects our head, in which our thoughts reside. Our "hope of salvation" should be the protector of our heads/thoughts)

Since the following verse mentions salvation through Jesus' death, I gathered that "salvation" in the verse above is referring to our eternal salvation - as opposed to our physical safety.

For God did not appoint us to wrath but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
In death or in life, we live together with Him.

Therefore (because we live together with Him, with the hope of salvation) comfort each other and edify one one another, just as you also are doing. Paul wants then to continue what they're doing - edifying each other.

And we urge you, brethren, to recognize (this doesn't mean give them a prize - it means to "know". Be aware who they are) those who labor ("labor" here does not just mean "to work". It means to work with wearisome effort, working to the point of exhaustion) among you, and are over you in the Lord ("over you" here means those who are guardians and protectors) and admonish (exhort or warn) you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake.

Consider them special with brotherly love because of their work - not because of their "works", but because of how they serve the Lord in what they do.

Be at peace among yourselves.

Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly (disorderly), comfort the fainthearted (lacking courage), uphold the weak, be patient (long suffering) with all.

See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

Rejoice always,
pray without ceasing,
in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Do not quench the Spirit. Do not extinguish the fire

Do not despise (disregard) prophecies. "Prophecies" could refer to either the Old Testament prophecies about Jesus, or it could refer to discussions that declare God's purposes -
"whether by reproving & admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden; esp. by foretelling future events (taken from Blue Letter Bible Lexicon)

Test (recognize as genuine after examination) all things;
hold fast (retain) what is good.
This is probably referring to the prophecies mentioned above. Don't disregard them, but test them, and keep what is from God.

Abstain from every form of evil. This means "every kind", as well as "appearance of evil"

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; (purify you in every respect) and may your whole spirit, soul and body be preserved blameless (carefully guarded with no need for condemnation) at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

He who calls (this means "call by name") you is faithful, who also will do it.
Do what? The answer is: He who called you by name, will purify you totally, and guard you carefully so that you may not be condemned at His coming.

Brethren, pray for us.

Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. "The kiss with which, as a sign of fraternal affection, Christians were accustomed to welcome or dismiss their companions in the faith" (Blue Letter Bible Lexicon)

I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
Amen.

1 Thessalonians Chapter 4

2008-02-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus. They should continue to grow more than they already have, because they were instructed how to walk pleasing God, and they know the message that they were given.

For this is the will of God, our sanctification:
sanctification = to be free from sin; set apart to a sacred purpose
It is God's will that we be sanctified

that you should abstain from sexual immorality;

that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel (body) in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God;

that no one should take advantage of and defraud his brother in this matter, because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also forewarned you and testified. As I researched this verse, it appeared that it did not mean "this matter", but in any matter - that no one should overreach the boundaries of what is proper with his brother in "a" matter.

for God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness (originally, this is the same word that was used above for "sanctification") Therefore he who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit.

But concerning brotherly love you have no need that I should write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another; and indeed you do so toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia.

But we urge you brethren, that you increase more and more; that you also aspire (make if your aim) to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.

But I do not want you to be ignorant brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.
for if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.

for this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep.

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout (order or command), with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God.

and the dead in Christ will rise first.

Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up ("seized") together with them in the clouds (of the cloud which led the Israelites in the wilderness) to meet the Lord in the air.
And thus we shall always be with the Lord.
Therefore comfort one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians Chapter 3

2008-01-31T05:50:00.000-08:00

This Chapter begins with "therefore", which a linking word. It's a continuation of the previous verses, which were the last verses of chapter 2, where Paul was saying that he had wanted to come see the Thessalonians many times, but had been hindered by Satan.
Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, (perhaps it was easier for one person to travel alone?) to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this.
Paul was worried that the Thessalonians would see the afflictions he was enduring, and desire an easier life. He wanted to encourage them to remember that they were appointed to serving God, and all the afflictions that come with it.

for, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.

For this reason (for the reason that he did not want them to "give up" on their faith when they knew that he was enduring tribulations), when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain. He was very concerned that they would fall away from their faith.

But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you -
therefore, brethren in all our afflictions and distress we were comforted concerning you by your faith. He was so relieved to hear that they were doing OK!

For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord. He could be at peace now that he knew that they were keeping the faith.

For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God, night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith? He still wanted to go see the Thessalonians, and to continue teaching and encouraging them.

Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you. He knew that they could go only with God's help and direction.

And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you,
so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.

1 Thessalonians Chapter 2

2008-01-30T06:13:00.001-08:00

For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain.

But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, (my guess is that he is probably referring to Acts 16:16-24, where they're beaten & put in jail for commanding a demon to come out of a young girl. In 17:1, it mentions that afterward, they moved on to Thessalonica)
as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict.

For our exhortation did not come from deceit or uncleanness, nor was it in guile.

But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. They preach not to make people feel better, or to entertain them - They preach the truth of the message that God entrusted them to preach.

For neither at anytime did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness - God is witness. They didn't "butter them up", nor try to profit from them.

Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. They didn't demand to be treated as celebrities

But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.
So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. They not only preached out of obligation, but also really desired to share the gospel with them because they loved them, and therefore also shared their lives with them.

For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil;
for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. They didn't just hang out and be served, they worked and they preached the gospel.

You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe;

as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, that you would have a walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God which also effectively works in you who believe. This verse confirms that the very teachings of God, which are the "word" of God, do work in us. A few other verses (specifically, John, in his epistles, and in Revelation) refer to Jesus as the "Word" (as in, "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us"). So the Word (Jesus) works in us, and also the word (Scripture) works in us .

For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus.

For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they (the churches in Judea) did from the Jews, who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men,

forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; I had thought that this mean that they're not allowed to show the Gentiles the way to salvation so that they (Gentiles) would be done sinning. However, I read this in a commentary:

"Here Paul revealed what offended the religious persecutors of the Thessalonians so much. They were outraged that Gentiles could be saved without first becoming Jews. This exclusive attitude filled up the measure of their sins."

but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost. Does this mean that God will judge them for hindering salvation?

But we, brethren, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored more eagerly to see your face with great desire.

Therefore we wanted to come to you - even I , Paul, time and again - but Satan hindered us.

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?
Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?
For you are our glory and joy.
It is their joy and reward to know that the Thessalonians will be with Jesus when He returns!

1 Thessalonians Chapter 1

2008-01-28T05:41:00.000-08:00

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy,
These three had all been to Thessalonica before; Paul with Silvanus -also known as Silas [read Acts 17:1-9] - and Timothy had been sent there previously to encourage the believers, which will be mentioned later in Chapter 3.

To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers,
remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father,
knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God.
Paul affirms that the Thessalonians are faithful believers, and reminds them they are chosen by God.

For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power,
and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, (They were not changed only because of the words they heard, but because of the work that the Holy Spirit did among them)
as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.
They were men preaching the gospel for the sake of leading others to Christ

And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. Sounds like the Thessalonians experienced a lot of persecution, therefore were examples of faithfulness to God in midst of hardships

For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything.
The Thessalonians had preached the gospel everywhere!

For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the loving and true God, (Paul has heard from the people in the region about how the Thessalonians have changed from idol worshipers to faithful believers in Jesus)
and to wait for His son from heaven, (they live like they are waiting for Jesus!)
who He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
Jesus is the one who saves us.

Titus Chapter 3

2008-01-27T08:13:00.001-08:00

Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities,
to obey,
to be ready for every good work,
to speak evil of no one,
to be peaceable,
gentle,
showing all humility to all men.

for we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts, and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.
In other words, don't be self righteous, show humility to all men, because I was once lost, too!

But when the kindness and the love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
not by works, of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy he saved us,
through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,
whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour,
When God's kindness & love appeared (our good deeds didn't "create" His presence, He appeared because of his Mercy towards us) He saved us. He washed us during our "new birth" and we are made new by the Holy Spirit, who has been poured on us by our Saviour Jesus.
that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. and now that His grace has declared us righteous, we receive what is now ours "by right of sonship", which is our eternal life - simply stated, our salvation.

This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. Teach these things over and over, so that the believers will continue to do good works.

These things are good and profitable to men.

But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law, for they are unprofitable and useless. Paul mentioned this in both his letters to Timothy, too - must be important.

Reject a divisive man (also: heretic, a follower of a false doctrine) after the first and second admonitions (try correcting him in love before rejecting him), knowing that such a person is warped (corrupt) and sinning, being self-condemned.

When I sent Artemas to you, or Tychicus (mentioned in Paul's other letters as a faithful brother), be diligent to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Others are going there to "relieve" Titus, so that he may go to Nicopolis with Paul.

Send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey with haste, that they may lack nothing.
Apollos is mentioned a few times in the New Testament. Read Acts 18:24 for the first mention. After that, he is mentioned by Paul a few times - sounds like he was a recognized leader and teacher in the church.

And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful.

All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith.

Grace be with you all. Amen.

Titus Chapter 2

2008-01-24T08:47:00.000-08:00

But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine:

that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience;

the older women likewise that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things -
that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. This is a great thing to strive for in women's relationships. The older mature women need to be examples to the younger, to avoid falling into the trap of gossiping, and complaining about their husbands. Anytime you have opportunity to encourage a younger woman, whether younger in age, or younger in the faith, make the most of that time.

Likewise exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works, in doctrine, showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility,

sound speech that cannot be condemned,
that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.
Teach the young men to be godly, not tempted or swayed easily, not saying things that can be criticized, making even your enemies humbled by the fact that they can find nothing evil to say about you.

Exhort servants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back (contradicting), not pilfering (separating for one own's self, embezzling) but showing all good fidelity (showing that you can be relied on), that they may adorn (to embellish with honor) the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.
When we are godly people to our "masters", we give honor to God.

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all mean, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,
looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,
who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. Live godly in this life, and keep looking toward Jesus, who died to redeem us from sin, and look forward to our eternal life!

Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority.

Let no one despise you. Live what you are teaching them!

Titus Chapter 1

2008-01-22T14:06:00.000-08:00

Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ,
according to the faith of God's elect and the acknowledgment of the truth which according to godliness, in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began,
but has in due time manifested His word through preaching,
which was committed to me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;

To Titus, my true son in our common faith:

Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior

For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you -
It appears that Titus was a brother in the faith, whom Paul put in charge of straightening out the church in Crete.

if a man is blameless,
the husband of one wife,
having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination.

for a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God,
not self-willed,
not quick-tempered,
not given to wine,
not violent,
not greedy for money,

but hospitable,
a lover of what is good,
sober-minded,
just,
holy,
self-controlled,
holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught,
Same qualifications given in 1 Timothy chapter 3.

that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.
In other words, "Titus, go to Crete and find a few men who fit these qualifications, and put them in charge as elders to correct and teach the others.

For there are many insubordinate(disobedient), both idle talkers (useless teaching) and deceivers (seducers), especially those of the circumcision (Jewish),

whose mouths must be stopped,
who subvert (to overthrow from the foundation) whole households,
teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain.
These guys sound like they are not just mistaken in their theology. Sounds like they are knowingly deceiving people for their own profit.

One of them, a prophet of their own, said, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons."
This testimony is true.

Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith,
Sharply - that means no tip toeing around, be firm when you correct these guys!
not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth.

To the pure all things are pure,
but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled.
They can't even figure out or even feel badly that they are doing wrong!

They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified* for every good work.
If we claim to be followers of Jesus, and we continue to practice things that we know are sin, we are DENYING HIM. We are disqualified.

*Disqualified:
1 : to deprive of the required qualities, properties, or conditions : make unfit
2 : to deprive of a power, right, or privilege
3 : to make ineligible for a prize or for further competition because of violations of the rules

Philemon

2008-01-22T12:25:00.000-08:00

Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother,

To Philemon our beloved friend and fellow laborer,
to the beloved Apphia, Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in your house:
The others mentioned are believed to be Philemon's family - wife and son

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers, hearing of your love and faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints, that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which in in you in Christ Jesus.
For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.
Philemon sounds like an all around godly guy - a good witness to God by his good behavior.

Therefore, though I might be very bold in Christ to command you what is fitting, yet for love's sake I rather appeal to you - (Because he knows that Philemon is obedient to God, he thinks he could just "tell" him to do this, but out of love, he is making a request)
being such a one as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ -
(In other words: “Philemon, before I tell you what I need from you, remember that I’m an old man, and a prisoner at that.”
I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains, who once was unprofitable to you, but now is profitable to you and to me. In the verses that follow, we see that Onesimus was Philemons' slave that left, and perhaps on bad terms, perhaps he "ran away". He was with Paul for some reason, whether visiting him in prison, or whether he was in prison with him, I can't tell. Either way, it appears that Onesimus became a believer when he was with Paul.

I am sending him back.
You therefore receive him, that is, my own heart, whom I wished to keep with me, that on your behalf he might minister to me in my chains for the gospel.

But without your consent I wanted to do nothing, that your good deed might not be by compulsion, as it were, but voluntary. He didn't want to force Philemon. Clearly, Paul was respecting Philemon's "territory".

For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave, as a beloved brother, especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. This reminds of of "All things work together for good..". Onesimus ran away, but perhaps it was so that he could receive the Lord, and then go back as a brother to Philemon. "In the flesh" sounds like perhaps he is also family...but I couldnt find anything to confirm that meaning.

If then you count me as a partner, receive him as you would me.

But if he has wronged you or owes you anything, put that on my account.
I, Paul, am writing with my own hand. Paul is totally vouching for Onesimus. Perhaps Onesimus stole from Philemon when he left.

I will repay - not to mention to you that you owe me even your own self besides,
Perhaps Paul led Philemon to Jesus?

Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in the Lord.
Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. Paul sounds like he knows that Philemon will go above and beyond in kindness and forgiveness.

But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you. Paul doesn't just feel better that his brothers are thinking of him, he has total faith that their prayers will be heard and he will soon be reunited with Philemon!

Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you, as do Mark, Aristarchu, Demas (In 2 Timothy 4:9, he says that Demas has forsaken him for the love of this world), Luke, my fellow laborers.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

1 Timothy Chapter 6

2008-01-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed. Be a servant with all humility, esteeming others above yourself, so that others would see your devotion to God and His ways.

And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Don't do a "half-baked" job for a brother/sister just because they are Christians. Don't take advantage of them.

Teach and exhort these things.

If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing,
but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain.
In other words, if anyone is teaching that you do NOT have to be a humble servant to your "masters", or anything that is against these godly teachings and the words of Jesus, this person is proud, self seeking, lacking truth, and suspicious of why people would live godly lives, wondering what they're trying to gain.

From such withdraw yourself.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. If you are satisfied being godly, you are rich!

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. We should be content if we have our basic needs met - food and clothing! (Don't consider it a trial if you can't have a Coach purse!!! hee!)

But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
When you want more money and stuff, nothing ever seems likes it's enough. Satisfaction never comes.

But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. He has confessed to whom he belongs!

I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate, (Jesus agreed with Pontius Pilate that He was the king of the Jews, and that God had given him the power he had.) that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ's appearing, which He will manifest in His own time,

He who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power. Amen.

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Don't let your wealth be your "god". He gives us all things and we are to trust in Him alone.

Let them (those that are rich) do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. Use what you have for good - being giving and generous, and let your foundation be God.

O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding the profane and vain babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge - by professing it, some have strayed concerning the faith. No more Oprah!
(Click on "Oprah", or search "Oprah's Gospel?" on Youtube.com

Grace be with you, Amen.

1 Timothy Chapter 5

2008-01-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father,
the younger men as brothers,
the older women as mothers, the younger as sisters, with all purity. Anytime you exhort anyone, it must be done in love and respectfully.

Honor widows who are really widows. The word "honor" here may be referring to financial assistance, according to the original language of the text.
But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God. The church is to be "family" to those that don't have any family. If there is anyone in our own family that needs help, we are to provide that help, and not make them the church's responsibility. In this way, the church is able to help those that really need it.

Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day. But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.

And these things command, that they may be blameless.

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. So part of our faith must include taking care of those that belong to us - our family. In the same way, if the "church" would deny assistance to the "real widows", they are also not in the faith.

Do not let a widow under 60 years old be taken into the number, ("the number" - of those widows who held a prominent place in the church and exercised a certain superintendence over the rest of the women, and had charge of the widows and orphans supported at the public expense)
and not unless she has been the wife of one man,
well reported for good works;
if she has brought up children,
if she has lodged strangers,
if she has washed the saints' feet,
if she has relieved the afflicted,
if she has diligently followed every good work.

But refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith.
They put God on the back-burner because they are distracted with their physical desires.
A commentary I read says: "Paul isn’t condemning young widows for wanting to get married, only observing that many unmarried women are so hungry for marriage and companionship that they don’t conduct themselves in a godly way in regard to relationships."

And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not.
Therefore, I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully. For some have already turned aside after Satan. He is saying that BECAUSE the young widows are behaving ungodly, then its better that they marry and stop sinning

If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows.

Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. Once again, the meanings for the word "honor" here is financial payment. Considering the verse that follows, it makes sense.
For the Scripture says: You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain" (Deuteronomy 25:4) and "The laborer is worthy of his wages" (Luke 10:7).

The ox scripture means that the ox is allowed to eat the grain while he is treading it. He is not muzzled to prevent that "perk" of the job.

Also - just as a side note, when Paul refers to the both those scriptures, he DOES refer to the verse in Luke as "scripture", thus validating the fact that the church at that time did consider the New Testament to be scripture.

Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses.
Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear. The elders are protected from people who would falsely accuse them, but at the same time, if they ARE sinning, then they are made an example to all.

I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality. Don't give preferential treatment to anyone. These rules apply to all equally!

Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people's sins; keep yourself pure. Since he is currently talking about leaders, this verse must be referring to "ordaining" people hastily. Perhaps they might be too young in the faith, or perhaps you don't know them well enough yet.

No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake, and your frequent infirmities. He refers to "frequent" infirmities, so it's possible that Timothy was having some health issues. A commentary I read said that perhaps Timothy was having problems with the water, as ancient purification methods probably weren't the best!

Some men's sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.
The truth always comes out eventually!

1 Timothy Chapter 4

2008-01-19T10:02:00.000-08:00

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, (in Webster's, "seared" means "withered and dry". In a commentary I read, it says that if our conscience is seared, its nerve endings are dead and without feeling.)

forbidding to marry and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
For every creature of God is good and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. I very rarely pray before I eat, as it sometimes feels very ritualistic; but as I read this, I think I should make it a point to receive my meals with thanksgiving to God - not as a ritual, but with actual attitude of thanking God.

If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.

But reject profane and old wives fables, and exercise yourself rather to godliness.

For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. Godliness will help you in this life and the next.

For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.

These things command and teach.

Let no one despise your youth but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Be a good example as a young person, and don't give others the opportunity speak evil of your youth.

Till I come, give attention to reading (the word used here means "knowing"), to exhortation (admonishing & encouraging), to doctrine (the word used here means "teaching").

These things were important enough to Paul that he pointed them out as things to focus on: knowing, exhorting, and teaching.

Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of hands of the presbytery (definition: body of elders).
In 2 Timothy 1:6, Paul reminds Timothy to stir up those gifts and not be afraid

Meditate on these things, give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. (In others words, "examine yourself in light of the doctrine") Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you. Continue to examine yourself and the doctrine, to keep yourself right, and to make sure others learn the true doctrine.

1 Timothy Chapter 3

2008-01-18T05:54:00.001-08:00

This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, (overseer) he desires a good work.

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); not a novice, (this means a new convert) lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil

Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil

Likewise deacons (a deacon is a "servant of a leader") must be reverent, not double-tongued (two-faced), not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience.

But let these also first be proved; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. Examine their lives before putting them in such a position.

Likewise their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things.

Let deacons be the husband of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well

For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. He tells us how to conduct ourselves in the "house of God, which is the church..." - which means not how to act in the church building, or within the church organization - it means how to act within the church family.

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness:
God was manifested in the flesh,
Justified in the Spirit
Seen by angels,
Preached among the Gentiles
Believed on in the world
Received up in glory.

1 Timothy Chapter 2

2008-01-16T19:02:00.001-08:00

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. Pray for all leaders!

For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, (ransom: "a consideration paid for the release of someone or something from captivity") to be testified in due time, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle - I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying - a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair of gold or pearls or costly clothing, but which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. OK, now - for years I have thought that its OK to wear costly stuff, as long as that is not the focus of your life. However, this verse seems to be pretty straightforward. We are to be moderate, modest, and proper. Modest and proper I already knew. But moderate means to avoid extremes. Don't try to look poor, don't try to look rich.

Let a women learn in silence with all submission ("Silence" in the Blue Letter Bible Lexicon is defined as "a description of the life of one who stays at home doing his own work, and does not officiously meddle with the affairs of others")

And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. "Authority" in the Blue Letter Bible Lexicon is defined as : to govern, exercise dominion over one. In the KJV, it says to "usurp" authority over a man, which would mean to "take by force."

For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression.

Nevertheless she will be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love, and holiness with self control. This is one confusing verse. I searched a few commentaries, and couldn't really find what it could mean.. anyone got a theory?? I'd love some feedback on this one. I don't think it refers to the fact that Jesus came from a woman. That was one thing I heard. But that just doesn't seem to be what that verse is saying. Confusing.

1 Timothy Chapter 1

2008-01-16T06:01:00.000-08:00

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Saviour and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope,

To Timothy, my true son in the faith:

Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.

As I urged you when I went into Macedonia - remain in Ephesus that you may charge some that they teach no other doctrine, nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith. Paul also says this in his letter to Titus 3:9. "But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless."

Now the purpose of the commandment (I looked up this use of "commandment" in the Blue Letter Bible Lexicon, and I believe Paul is referring to his instructions, as opposed to the "Law") is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith, from which some, having strayed, have turned aside to idle talk, desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding neither what they say nor the things which they affirm. In other words, they're just talking to talk, not really knowing what they are saying. "Idle" talk means "of no worth".

But we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully, The use of the word "law" in this verse, sounds like it is referring to "The Law" that was given by God. Again, I looked this up in the Blue Letter Bible Lexicon.

Also, as 2 Timothy tells us to "rightly divide the word, Paul here tells us to use the law "lawfully".

This following passage sounds like it means that when we use the law lawfully, we know it is NOT made for a righteous person, but for a lawless person. So using it lawfully, means we are to present it to a lawless person...? What do ya think?
knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust.
I listen to Way of the Master Radio a lot, and this verse reminds me of their rule of thumb when sharing your faith - "Give the Law to the proud, and give Grace to the humble".

And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
When we are unbelievers, ignorant of God's ways, we see nothing wrong with certain sins. Once we are shown Gods ways - which is why the Law is for the ungodly - we realize that we are sinners, and by God's grace, repent and obtain mercy. When we are no longer ignorant, if we still choose to sin, we're in trouble. See 2 Peter 2: 21 which says "For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them."

And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.

However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, (I don't think we're told exactly what those prophecies about Timothy were, but either way, Paul wants Timothy to remember them, and to stand firm in the faith) having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck, of whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, (remember, he warns Timothy again about "Alexander" in 2 Timothy 4:14) whom I delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.

2 Timothy Chapter 4

2008-01-14T06:54:00.000-08:00

I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: this goes along with the previous verse in Chapter 3 about Scripture being inspired by God for doctrine, correction, etc. In other words, "because Scripture is God's message to us, I give you the responsibility to:

Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince ("to move by argument or evidence to belief") , rebuke ("reprimand"), exhort (to give warnings or advice), with all long suffering and teaching. Don't just show them where they're wrong, be patient and teach them truth, too.

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, (I think this implies that adhering to truth requires endurance) but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers (I read this in a commentary: "We shouldn’t assume a teacher is scratching itching ears just because he is popular, but neither should we assume that he is faithful to God’s Word just because he is popular"):

and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. (Once upon a time, a monkey turned into a man...)

Here's something else from a commentary I thought was worth mentioning:
"It is possible for many church goers to turn aside from the truth and to believe many fables:

The fable that you must earn your way before God
The fable that God only loves you when you are good
The fable that you should walk around thinking of yourself as better than others because you are a Christian"

But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. He is ready and willing to give his life for God. Amazing.

Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on the that Day, and not to me only, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

Be diligent to come to me quickly: for Demas (Demas is mentioned in Philemon 1:24 as a fellow laborer) has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica - Crescens for Galatia, Titus for Dalmatia.

Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry.
and Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.
Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come - and the books, especially the parchments.

Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. ("Alexander" was mentioned before in 1 Timothy 1:19, 20. It says "...having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck, of whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, who I delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme". ) May the Lord repay him according to his works. You also must beware of him, for he has greatly resisted our words.

At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. He is forgiving even when others have plainly wronged him.

But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. The purpose of God strengthening him was so that the message would reach others.

And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!

Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.
Erastus stayed in Corinth, but Trophimus I have left in Miletus sick.

Do your utmost to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, as well as Pudens, Linus, Claudia and all the brethren.

The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Grace be with you . Amen.

2 Timothy Chapter 3

2008-01-14T06:10:00.000-08:00

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! This list sounds so awful here. But if as I think about each word, I can easily see each trait in our society. On a daily basis I can turn on the TV to find people talking about how I should love myself. Infomercials that promise how you can make millions. Movies with blasphemies. News stories of kids committing unbelievable crimes. Criticizing of Christians. Temptation to buy stuff...NOW. And so much more that fits the list above.

For this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Now as Jannes and Jambres (they are not identified by name in the Old Testament, but Rabbinic tradition holds that Jannes & Jambres were, or were among, the magicians who opposed Moses and Aaron at the time of the Exodus) resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all, as theirs also was. God will expose everything one day

But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long suffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra - what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me.

Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. All.

But evil men and imposters will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.

But as for you, continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. It gives us a head start toward salvation to know the scriptures in our childhood.

All Scriptures is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction , for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. We have all we need.

2 Timothy Chapter 2

2008-01-12T22:59:00.000-08:00

You therefore , my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. He is referring to the previous verse, which is the previous chapter, where he talked about a couple of guys who fell away, and one who was faithful and diligent. He is encouraging Timothy to consider those guys, and to be strong in God's grace.

And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. He wants him to train others to continue these teachings.

You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. Keep your focus on the fight - don't be distracted

And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. Hold fast to the teachings - don't be a hypocrite.

The hard-working farmer must be first to partake of the crops. Huh? This comment seems out of place. I googled it and found this: no man may look for the harvest, unless he first takes pains to plow and sow his ground. Ok, that makes sense.

Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.
Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains, but the word of God is not chained. God's word will not suffer, and it will not be held back or hidden away.

Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

This is a faithful saying:
for if we died with Him, we shall also live with Him.
If we endure, we shall also reign with Him.
If we deny Him, He also will deny us,.
If we are faithless, He remains faithful;
He cannot deny Himself.

Remind them (the elect) of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of hearers. Remind other believers about these teachings, and don't let them argue about things that don't matter, because people who see them doing so will turn away from believing.

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. We are to strive to please God, for this will give us a clean conscience before Him. Make sure we interpret the word of truth correctly. We CAN divide it incorrectly, to fit what we want it to.

But shun profane and vain babbling, for they will increase to more ungodliness. Oh, Oh, that sounds like I better stop watching "The View"!

And their message will spread like cancer. (quickly and destructively, and internally) Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some.

Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: The Lord knows those who are His, and Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity. God knows who is rightly dividing His word, and who is participating in vain babbling. And if we name God as our Saviour, we have to depart from those things. He knows who is serving Him with a clear conscience and who is not.

But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter he will be vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master prepared for every good work. This is an awesome verse for me to read. Something I struggle with is wondering if I am really saved. I have often thought, "what if I'm a vessel that was made for dishonor, and there's nothing I can do about it?". This verse tells me that even if I am, it is possible to be cleansed to be used for honor, useful for the Master and prepared for every good work. cool.

Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace, with those who call on the Lord out a pure heart. Make sure that as you pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, that you do it with those who are truly seeking God.

but avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. This goes back to avoiding vain babblings.

And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will. Don't argue just for the sake of arguing. Humbly try to correct those that have gone astray. Our motive should be to correct them, not to show them that we are right.

2 Timothy Chapter 1

2008-01-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

"Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which in Christ Jesus.
To Timothy, my beloved son:
Grace, mercy & peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

I thank my God, whom I serve with a pure conscience , as my forefathers did,
as without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day,
greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears,
that I may be filled with joy when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.
Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of your hands."
The gift of God was given when others laid hands on him (see 1 Timothy)

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Sounds like this is directly related to the previous verse. Meaning that a spirit of fear should not hinder us from stirring up the gift that God has given us.

Therefore (Tip: Whenever you read "therefore", you must as yourself what it's "there for") do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, (so, because God doesn't want us to be afraid of stirring up the the gift He's given us, we should further not be ashamed of His testimony.) but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. This so contradicts the "cushy" life that many Christians think that God desires for us, doesn't it?

For this reason (because Jesus abolished death and brought life) I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.

Hold fast (meaning: stick to firmly) the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Does the "pattern of sound words" mean the gospel?
That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.

This you know, that all those in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.

The Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain; but when he arrived in Rome, he sought me out very diligently and found me. He really went out of his way to help his brother Paul. Do we do that?
The Lord grant to him that he may find mercy from the Lord in that Day - and you know very well how many ways he ministered to me at Ephesus.