WE NEED TO BE A GOOD EXAMPLE OF CHRISTIAN BEHAVIOR

Proclamation:

“And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.  The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia, your faith in God has become known everywhere …”  1 Thessalonians 1:7-8 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written in a letter by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Thessalonica.  In this first chapter, Paul praised them for their efforts in the name of The Lord and he thanked God for them in his prayers. (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)  They were believers who developed a deep conviction and were empowered by The Holy Spirit of God. (1 Thessalonians 1:4-5)  They became a model for all believers.

Application:

It is not just preachers who should spread The Word of God, all believers also have the potential to do so because of the indwelling of The Holy Spirit.  All believers can be models of Christ-like behavior for the world to see, and all can share The Word of God with those unbelievers that they encounter.  Our faith in God and our love for God should cause us to want to share Him with others.  We just need to recognize that to the world, our actions speak much louder than our words.  We need to exhibit Christ-like behavior if our message is to be effective.  The change in our behavior from our previous sinful ways will speak for itself.

BE VERY CAREFUL WITH THE WORDS THAT WE SPEAK

Proclamation:

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”  Colossians 4:5-6 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Colossae.  In this fourth and final chapter, Paul told them that masters should be fair with slaves for they themselves have a Master in heaven. (Colossians 4:1)  Then he advised the believers to devote themselves to prayer while being thankful, and he asked them to pray for him. (Colossians 4:2-3)  He then told them to be careful and exercise wisdom when the interacted with non-believers.  Their speech should always be full of grace and seasoned with salt, which was a purifying and preserving agent which was used before refrigeration.  Then he offered them his farewell greetings. (Colossians 4:7-18)

Applications:

The unsaved people of the world are watching us and making judgments about all believers, and about Christ based upon our behavior and conversation.  It behooves us to be careful and wise when we are around them. (Ephesians 5:15)  We need to make the most of every opportunity to be a witness for Christ, and to provide a good example of Christ-like behavior in order to win souls for the kingdom of heaven.  We need to be particularly careful with respect to our conversation and choice of words.  All that we say should be truthful, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind.  Our words should have a purifying influence on those who hear us. (Ephesians 4:22 and Philippians 1:27) 

DO YOUR BEST AS IF YOU WERE WORKING FOR THE LORD

Proclamation:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for The Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from The Lord as a reward.  It is The Lord Christ you are serving.”  Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Colossae.  Paul began this third chapter by telling them to set their minds and hearts on things above and not on earthly things. (Colossians 3:1-4)  He encouraged them to “put to death” their earthly nature.  They were not to lie to each other. (Colossians 3:5-10)  He told them that they were God’s chosen people and that they should exhibit the fruit of The Holy Spirit. (Colossians 3:12)  They should let the peace of Christ rule their hearts, and let the message of Christ live within them as they go about helping one another. (Colossians 3:15-16)  Paul told them that whatever they do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of The Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God, The Father, through Him. (Colossians 3:17)  He repeated this thought and added to it that they should do their best at whatever they do, as if they were working for The Lord because it is Christ they are serving. (Colossians 3:23-24)

Application:

We are encouraged to do our very best at whatever it is that we do. (Ecclesiastes 9:10 and Colossians 3:23)  We are to work as if we were working for The Lord God for ultimately it is Christ that we are serving.  This is the standard by which we should judge all that we say and do.  In all things give God glory.  If what we are doing in not for The Lord, then there is a good chance that we should not be doing it.

THE LIFE WE LIVE SHOULD REFLECT OUR CONNECTION TO CHRIST

Proclamation:

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”  Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Colossae.  Paul began this second chapter by telling them that he wanted to encourage them so that they may have complete understanding.  He did not want them to be deceived and misled by the eloquent arguments of false teachers. (Colossians 2:4)  He wanted them to live their lives for Christ, to be grounded and strengthened in Him, and to be full of thanksgiving.  He ended this chapter by advising them not to be concerned if the world judged them by what they ate or drank, or their lack of attendance at Jewish festivals, or not following Jewish traditions.  They were free from the rules of the world and were tied to Christ. (Colossians 2:16-23)

Application:

Our salvation is not determined by our works, it is a gift of God because of our belief in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:9-10)  Our Christian walk is an outward demonstration of our inward conviction and the indwelling of The Holy Spirit.  Christ is our foundation and our life is built upon Him.  Our behavior in this world is to be based upon our faith in Him. (2 Corinthians 5:7)  It is not possible for us to grow in knowledge of Him without being rooted in Him.  Apart from Him we can do nothing. (John 15:5)  As we grow in Him we are strengthened by Him, and we should be grateful and thankful that we have been blessed by Him.

BELIEVERS SHOULD CONTINUALLY PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER

Proclamation:

“… We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that The Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of The Lord and please Him in every way; bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to His might so that you may have great endurance and patience …”  Colossians 1:9-11 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written in a letter by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Colossae.  Paul began this letter in his usual manner by introducing himself and offering a prayer for them. (Colossians 1:1-6)  Then he explains why he continues to pray for them. (Colossians 1:9-12)  He wants them to live a life which is pleasing to God.  He wants them to do good works which produce fruit for The Lord, and he wants them to grow in the knowledge of God and be strengthened by His power.

Application:

We all need prayer.  In fact, we are where we are, and who we are today because somebody prayed for us.  It may have been our mother or grandmother, our sister or brother, a relative or friend, a loved one or a preacher, but somebody, probably more than one somebody prayed for us, and they prayed for us more than once.  Likewise, as believers we need to pray for one another.  There is power in prayer, and the prayers of the righteous are effective. (James 5:16)  Again, we all need prayer, and not only because of our current situation.  Each of us could benefit by learning more about The Word of God.  We all could also do a better job of doing things which are pleasing to God.  We all need His help and strength to make it through each day.  We also need to be grateful and thankful for that which we have already been blessed with. (Colossians 1:12-14)

PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING AND WORRY ABOUT NOTHING

Proclamation:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”  Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Philippi.  In this final chapter, Paul began by encouraging them to rejoice in The Lord. (Philippians 4:4)  He told them not to worry about anything and to pray about everything.  Then he told them to think about things which are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy, and to put into practice the things that they had learned from him. (Philippians 4:8-9)  He told them that he had learned to be thankful whatever state he was in, whether he had plenty or had very little. (Philippians 4:11-12)  He said that he could do all things through Christ who strengthened him. (Philippians 4:13)  Finally, he ended his letter by telling them that God, The Father, will supply all of their needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)

Application:

It has been said, “If you pray, then don’t worry; but if you are going to worry, then don’t pray.”  As believers we are encouraged to pray about everything.  There is no need for us to worry about anything.  The Lord God is in control of everything.  We just need to rejoice and think about all of the good things that He has done, and be thankful.  The Lord God is all powerful, and we can do all things through Christ who is our strength.  All that we need, He can supply.  So, don’t worry, pray and be happy.

FORGET WHAT IS BEHIND US AND LOOK FORWARD TO THE PRIZE AHEAD

Proclamation:

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it.  But one thing I do, forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Philippi.  Paul begins this third chapter by stating that he has no confidence in the flesh. (Philippians 3:1-4)  He briefly recounts his personal history (Philippians 3:4-6) then states that all he has gained in life he considers a loss, and everything that he lost for Christ’s sake is surpassed in worth by knowing Christ Jesus The Lord. (Philippians 3:7-9)  Then he said that he wants to know more about Christ, the power of His resurrection, and participate in His suffering, and somehow attain the resurrection from the dead. (Philippians 3:10-11)  He said that he had not yet attained this but it is his goal and he is pressing on towards that goal.  He encouraged them to follow his example and be an example to others to live as they do. (Philippians 3:15-17)  He ends by reminding them that they are citizens of heaven, eagerly awaiting the day when The Lord Jesus Christ would transform their earthly bodies into glorious bodies like His. (Philippians 3:18-21)

Application:

We know that it is not humanly possible for us to obtain perfection but it is still a goal which is well worth striving for.  No matter what it is that we are going through, we need to keep our eyes on the prize.  There is so much more that we can learn about our Lord and Savior Jesus, The Christ, and like Paul we should want to know more. (Philippians 3:10-11)  After we ask Him for forgiveness, let us leave all of our past mistakes behind us and look forward to that which lies ahead, the prize which God has in store for us.

EVERY KNEE WILL BOW AND EVERY TONGUE WILL CONFESS THAT JESUS THE CHRIST IS THE LORD

Proclamation:

“Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God, The Father.”  Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Philippi.  Paul began this chapter by encouraging them to have the same mindset as Jesus, The Christ. (Philippians 2:1-5)  Then he reminded them that Christ left heaven and came down to earth, took on human form, humbled himself, and was obedient to the will of God, including dying on the cross. (Philippians 2:6-8)  It was because of this that God exalted Him to the highest possible place and made His name more important than every other name.  Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus, The Christ, is Lord over all.

Application:

Our salvation is based upon our belief in Jesus, The Christ, The Son of God, and His earthly birth, life, death, burial, and resurrection. (John 3:16)  He has been exalted to the highest place and now sits at the right hand of God, The Father. (Mark 16:19, Luke 22:69, Acts 2:33, and Hebrews 12:2)  The day is coming when everyone will know that He is The Lord.  Believers will bow to Him out of love and respect, others will bow out of fear and trembling.  Everyone will not be saved, but everyone will know that He is Lord. (Matthew 7:21-23)  Only those of us who believe in Him will be saved. (Romans 10:9) 

MAY YOU GROW IN LOVE AND KNOWLEDGE AND INSIGHT

Proclamation:

“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.”  Philippians 1:9-11 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written in a letter by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Philippi.  After introducing himself and greeting them, Paul offers a prayer for them knowing that the good work which Christ had begun in them would be completed. (Philippians 1:3-6)  He prays that they would grow in love and knowledge and insight, so that they would know and do what is good and right to the glory and praise of God.

Application:

As believers we are to love all of God’s people, even those who are difficult to love.  However, there are some people that we need to love at a distance.  We need to learn how to love with knowledge and discernment because there are some individuals who would take advantage of us.  We need God’s help in deciding what is the best thing, and right thing to do.  If on our own we choose the wrong path, we need to confess that we made a mistake, and then turn around and head in the direction that The Lord God would have us to go.  Additionally, as we deal with people, we need to be sincere and honest.  The truth may offend some people but we should speak the truth in an effort to be helpful and therefore be blameless. (Philippians 1:10)  We should speak in such a way as to be helpful and to edify the body of Christ.  In all that we do, it should be done to the glory and praise of God. 

PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD TO STAND AGAINST EVIL

Proclamation:

“Finally, be strong in The Lord and in His mighty power.  Put on the whole armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly places.  Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.  Ephesians 6:10-13 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Ephesus.  Paul begins this final chapter by offering advice to children, telling them to obey and honor their parents. (Ephesians 6:1-3)  The parents were also admonished not to provoke their children but to train them in the ways of The Lord. (Ephesians 6:4 and Proverbs 22:6)  Paul also offered them advice for the behavior of workers and bosses. (Ephesians 6:5-9)  Finally, as he ended this letter, he offered this advice to the believers, telling them to be strong in The Lord.  He followed this with specific instructions regarding how to do that and included a rationale for why it should be done. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

Application:

As believers today we should also prepare for battle against evil.  The devil and his army are well-positioned for their attack.  However, as the Old Testament believers were told, the battle is not ours to fight, but it is The Lord God’s. (1 Samuel 17:47 and 2 Chronicles 20:15)  We will be attacked and we will need special weapons and protective “war clothes” in order to survive the battle and to stand our ground. (Ephesians 6:11-13)  We will need the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace about our feet, the helmet of salvation, the shield of faith in one hand, the sword of The Spirit (The Word of God) in the other hand, and prayer in our mouth. (Ephesians 6:14-18)  We cannot overcome the devil on our own with our limited abilities and power.  As a Christian soldier we need the help of The Lord God in order to withstand the devil’s attacks.  We have already been granted the victory but only through Jesus, The Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)  To God be the glory!!!

KEEP A PSALM OR SONG OF PRAISE IN YOUR HEART

Proclamation:

“… Sing and make music from your heart to The Lord, always giving thanks to God, The Father, for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  Ephesians 5:19-20 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Ephesus.  He begins this chapter by telling them to walk in love, just as Christ loved them. (Ephesians 5:1-2)  Then he tells them to avoid improper behavior. (Ephesians 5:3-6)  He also tells them to let no one deceive them or lead them into darkness for they are children of the light. (Ephesians 5:6-14)  He warns them to be very careful about how they live. (Ephesians 5:15-18)  Then he encourages them to be “filled with The Spirit” and to sing from their heart unto The Lord, always giving thanks for everything. (Ephesians 5:18-20)  He ends the chapter with instructions for Christian households, explaining how husbands and wives should treat one another. (Ephesians 5:21-33)

Application:

Paul encouraged the believers to speak to one another with “psalms, hymns, and songs from The Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:19)  The best way for us to do this is to have a psalm or song of praise in our heart as we interact with one another.  As believers we all have a reason to sing for joy, regardless of our present situation. (James 1:2)  We ought to always be thankful for everything, because all things work together for our good. (Romans 8:28)

GUIDELINES FOR GOOD CHRISTIAN LIVING

Proclamation:

“As a prisoner of The Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.  Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Make every effort to keep the unity of The Spirit through the bond of peace.”  Ephesians 4:1-3 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written in a letter by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Ephesus.  Paul began the fourth chapter with these words, urging them to live a life which was worthy of their call to be Christians.  He told them that Christ had given each one of them sufficient grace according to their needs. (Ephesians 4:7)  Different gifts were given to different individuals but all of them were for the work of the ministry and the edification of the believers. (Ephesians 4:11-12)  Once they were edified, they would no longer be babes in Christ, and no longer easily influenced by the cunning and craftiness of men.  They would be mature believers and be able to speak the truth to those who would attempt to influence them. (Ephesians 4:14-15)  Then he reminded them that they had been changed, they were new creatures with a new mind and a renewed spirit. (Ephesians 23-24)  He followed this up with specific examples of that which they should not do and that which they should do, including not letting any corrupt communication proceed out of their mouth but speaking only that which is helpful for building up others. (Ephesians 4:25-32)

Application:

When someone calls us a Christian, they should not be taking his name in vain.  As believers in Christ we are to behave in a “Christ-like” manner.  We are not perfect, but we should clearly be different and the change should be visible to those who knew us beforehand.  We should walk worthy (Ephesians 4:1) and talk worthy (Ephesians 4:29) of being called a Christian.  We have been blessed by the grace of God with gifts, talents, and abilities which we should use to the glory of God and to help build up the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:12)  We should also know, or learn, enough so that we can refute those who present us with false doctrine. (Ephesians 4:14-15)

A PRAYER FOR THE STRENGTHENING OF ALL BELIEVERS

Proclamation:

“I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.  And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love surpasses knowledge; that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”  Ephesians 3:16-19 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, in a letter to the believers in the church at Ephesus.  Paul began this third chapter by asserting that he is an apostle given by God to preach to the gentiles. (Ephesians 3:1-12)  He asked them not to be discouraged because he was in prison. (Ephesians 3:13)  Then he offered this prayer for them.  He prayed for their strength and power in The Lord, and that they would appreciate the vastness of the love of Christ.

Application:

This prayer has four petitions on behalf of believers.  First, that all believers would be strengthened in The Spirit.  Second, that Christ would dwell in our hearts by faith.  Third, that we would know the extent of the love of Christ and be grounded in it.  And fourth, that we would be filled up with all the fullness of God.  This is a prayer that we should pray for all believers so that we would be strengthened and grow in the knowledge of God and the love of Christ.  This is something that we all could use as we continue our Christian journey in this sin-sick world.

IT IS BY GRACE THAT WE ARE SAVED NOT BY WORKS

Proclamation:

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God; not by works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  Ephesians 2:8-10 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, in a letter to the believers in the church at Ephesus.  Paul began this second chapter by telling them that they were lost in sin, following the ways of the world, until they were saved by the grace of God. (Ephesians 2:1-6)  He told them that they were saved by grace through faith.  Their salvation was a gift from God, and it had nothing to do with their work or anything that they did.  He went on to tell them that they were once separated far from Christ, but now they have been brought near to Christ by the blood that He shed. (Ephesians 2:12-13)  Now they are no longer foreigners, they are fellow citizens with God’s chosen people and members of His family. (Ephesians 2:19-20)

Applications:

Our salvation is based solely upon our belief in Jesus, The Christ.  We did nothing to earn it.  It is a gift from God by His grace.  The favor of God’s grace is bestowed upon us and it is unmerited and undeserved.  We were created in Christ as believers to do good works, to give God glory, but the good works is not what saves us.  The Lord God has prepared us to do good work and “… He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)  So let us keep on working for The Lord while we can, because one day we will make the transition from labor to reward.  On that day we will be absent from the body and present with The Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8) 

MAY GOD GIVE US THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND MAY OUR HEART BE ENLIGHTENED

Proclamation:

“I keep asking The God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you The Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better.  I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, and His incomparably great power for us who believe. …”  Ephesians 1:17-19 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Ephesus.  After his opening greeting and introduction, Paul praised God for the spiritual blessings that they had received through Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 1:1-14)  Then he offers a prayer for the believers so that God would bless them with The Spirit of wisdom, knowledge, and revelation, that they would know Him better.  He also prayed that they would be enlightened and know that to which God called them, know the riches of His glorious inheritance that He has for His people, and know His incomparable great power.  Paul ends by telling them about the authority and dominion that Jesus, The Christ, has over everything in this world and in the world to come. (Ephesians 1:19-23)

Application:

Paul recognized that without the help of God, the people would not understand that the church is the body of Christ and that God, The Father, planned it, God, The Son, paid for it, and God, The Holy Spirit, protects it.  Paul prayed for the believers in his day and we should pray for believers today.  We all need God’s help with understanding His Word, none of us knows everything.  We all also need to feel the almighty power of God working within us.  Additionally, we all need to develop a greater appreciation for the hope of blessings that He has called us to receive by His Word and His Spirit. 

LET US DO GOOD TO ALL PEOPLE ESPECIALLY BELIEVERS

Proclamation:

“Do not be deceived; God cannot be mocked.  A man reaps what he sows.  Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please The Spirit, from The Spirit will reap eternal life.  Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”  Galatians 6:7-10 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Galatia.  In this final chapter, Paul begins by stating that if someone falls into sin, they should forgive them and restore them gently into the fellowship.  He also said that they should share one another’s burdens for no one is as good as they think they are. (Galatians 6:1-3)  Then he tells them that as they sow, so shall they reap.  He encourages them to not grow weary of doing for in due time they will be rewarded.  They should do good to all people, especially to all believers.

Application:

Do not fool yourself; The Lord God cannot be deceived.  That which we sow is the same thing that we will reap.  We should treat others as we would like to be treated. (Luke 6:31)  We should continue to do the right thing and do good to others.  We should not do good because we expect to receive good in return but because it is the Christ-like thing to do.  It may not come right away but we will be rewarded for doing so.  We should treat everybody right and help those that we can, especially those who are also believers.  Remember, Christ said that as we have done to the least of His brothers, we have done it to Him. (Matthew 25:40)

LET US WALK THE WALK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Proclamation:

“So I say, walk by The Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.  For the flesh desires what is contrary to The Spirit, and The Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.  They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.  But if you are led by The Spirit, you are not under the law.”  Galatians 5:16-18 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Galatia.  In this chapter, Paul begins by stating that Christ has set them free from the law. (Galatians 5:1)  Then he tells them that circumcision is required under the law.  Men who let themselves be circumcised are trying to be justified by the law.  All they really have done is to alienate themselves from Christ and have fallen away from grace. (Galatians 5:2-7)  The Paul asked them who persuaded them to change and said that whoever confused them would pay the penalty. (Galatians 5:7-12)  Then he told them that they had been set free but they should not use their freedom to indulge in the desires of the flesh or to devour one another. (Galatians 5:13-15)  He encouraged them to walk in The Spirit.  He told them The Spirit desires that which is contrary to the desires of the flesh.

Application:

Believers should walk the walk of The Spirit.  If we stay in The Spirit, then we will not give in to the desires of the flesh.  For that which the flesh desires is contrary to the way of The Spirit.  Paul provided a list of the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21) and then contrasted them to the fruit of The Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23)  None of the sinful desires of the flesh should surprise us, in fact we are probably all too familiar with them.  So, since The Holy Spirit of God lives within us, and as believers we should live by The Spirit, let us try to keep in step with and walk in The Spirit. (Galatians 5:25)  That is the only way that we can produce the fruit of The Spirit.  The manifestation of the fruit of The Spirit is always for the benefit of others, whereas the desires of the flesh are always selfish.  

WE ARE THE ADOPTED SONS OF GOD

Proclamation:

“But when the set time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.  Because you are His sons, God sent The Spirit of His Son into our hearts, The Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’”  Galatians 4:4-6 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Galatia.  Paul begins this chapter by continuing his discussion regarding believers being heirs to the promise of God.  He states that Christ came into the world and lived under the law in order to save us from the law and the world.  To all who believed in Him, He gave the power to become the sons of God. (John 1:12) 

Application:

All believers can rightly be called “a child of God”.  We may be adopted, but we are still children of God.  That entitles us to all of the benefits of “sonship” including being able to call Him our “Father.”  That is why Jesus, The Christ, said that we can pray to Him and say, “Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name …” (Matthew 6:9 and Luke 11:2)  We have The Spirit of God within our hearts from the moment that we believed.  That also makes us heirs to the promise of Abraham. (Galatians 4:7) 

ALL BELIEVERS ARE HEIRS TO THE PROMISE OF ABRAHAM

Proclamation:

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ … If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”  Galatians 3:26-28 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Galatia.  Paul begins this chapter by expressing his disappointment with the Galatians for departing from the doctrine of justification alone through faith in Christ.  Because of this, he asked them several rhetorical questions. (Galatians 3:1-5)  Then he tells them that those who have faith in Christ are the children of Abraham, the father of the faithful. (Galatians 3:7-9)  He ends the chapter by reminding them that as the seed of Abraham they are heirs to the promise that God made to him. (Galatians 3:14 and 29)

Application:

There are many benefits to being a child of God.  Only believers can be clothed, or wrapped up in, Christ.  Only believers can be cared for, provided for, protected, and helped by a loving heavenly Father.  As children of God, we are all one, with no differences regarding nationality or gender, wealth or status. (Galatians 3:28)  Since all believers belong to Christ, we are all seeds of Abraham and thereby we are all heirs to the promise. (Galatians 3:29)

SO THAT I MIGHT LIVE FOR GOD

Proclamation:

“For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God.  I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.  The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in The Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”  Galatians 2:19-20 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Galatia.  Paul begins this chapter by recounting his acceptance by the apostles. (Galatians 2:1-10)  He then recounts an episode where he confronts Peter for his non-Christ-like behavior. (Galatians 2:11-18)  Peter would eat and fellowship with the Gentiles until some of the other apostles arrived, then he separated himself from them and other believers, including Barnabas, followed his lead.  After this, Paul states that he is no longer under the law because Christ died and rose for him.  Now he lives his life for Christ and walks by faith in The Son of God.

Application:

As believers, our behavior is always under scrutiny, by non-believers and by other believers.  When we do wrong and sin, we can cause those who follow us to stumble and fall into sin, as Peter did.  We are not to return to our old ways and follow non-Christian customs in order to gain the favor of man. (Galatians 2:14)  We need to recognize The Spirit of God within us and to live our life as a good example of Christian behavior.  We are justified by our faith in Christ and not by our works or customs.  Christ was crucified once for all of us and for all of our sins.  There is no need for us to be crucified or to crucify Him again.  He died for us so that we could live with Him in the future.  So, let us live for Him now.

THERE IS ONLY ONE TRUE GOSPEL THE GOSPEL OF JESUS THE CHRIST

Proclamation:

“As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!”  Galatians 1:9 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Galatia.  After the opening greeting in his letter to these believers, Paul states that any other gospel other than the gospel of Jesus Christ, and Him crucified and risen, is no gospel at all. (Galatians 1:6-7)  He said that if the apostles, or angels, or anybody else should preach anything else to them, let them be under God’s curse. (Galatians 1:8-9)  Then Paul goes on to tell them that he was called of God to preach to them and he briefly presents his background. (Galatians 1:11-24)

Application:

Worldly people will present all manner of doctrine and beliefs to us in the name of their religion or philosophy.  However, if they present anything other than the birth, life, teachings, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, The Christ, we should not put any faith in it.  Any other “gospel” is not really the gospel at all.  The Lord God will deal with all of those false prophets.  We need to read, study, and live The Holy Word of God in order to make sure that we recognize false teachings and errors when they are presented to us.  Remember that Satan was an angel and he was kicked out of heaven along with one third of the angels in heaven who followed him. (Luke 10:18 and Revelation 12:9)  There is only one way for us to be saved and that is through belief in Jesus, The Christ. (John 3:16, Acts 4:12, and Romans 10:9)  Jesus said, “I am the way … no man cometh unto The Father, but by Me.” (John 14:6)  To God be the glory!!!

THE HOLY SPIRIT OF THE LORD GOD IS WITHIN US

Proclamation:

“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.  Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you, unless, of course, you fail the test?”  2 Corinthians 13:5 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth.  In this the last chapter of Second Corinthians, Paul tells them that he plans to visit them in order to personally address the incorrigible members among them who did not respond to his repeated warnings. (2 Corinthians 13:1-2)  He exhorts them to examine themselves.  Then he asked them a rhetorical question, “Do you not realize that Christ Jesus in you?”  He ends by telling them to strive for full restoration, to encourage one another, to be of one mind, and to live in peace. (2 Corinthians 13:11)

Application:

As believers we are saved, but unfortunately, even though we are believers in Christ, we still sin.  When we fall back into sin, we do not lose our salvation; we just interrupt the fellowship that we have with Christ.  That is why we should frequently ask to be forgiven because we sin daily.  Remember, in addition to our sinful behavior, we can sin with our words (Matthew 15:18) and with our thoughts. (Proverbs 23:7 and Matthew 5:28)  There are also sins of omission as well as sins of commission.  We all need to check ourselves regularly and confess our sins.  Pray that God will forgive us, cleanse our heart and mind, and renew a right spirit within us. (Psalm 51:1-4 and 10)  The Holy Spirit of God is within us (Ezekiel 36:27) and our behavior should exhibit the fruit of The Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23)  Our life, our walk, and our talk should be different after we accepted Christ than it was beforehand.  And, no matter how long we have been in Christ, we should all be growing in knowledge and holiness. (2 Peter 2:18)  The only things that do not grow are things that are dead.  We should strive to be more Christ-like each day.

SOMETIMES WE NEED A THORN IN OUR FLESH TO KEEP US GROUNDED

Proclamation:

“Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan, to torment me.  Three times I pleaded with The Lord to take it away from me.  But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’”  2 Corinthians 12:7-9 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth.  Paul begins this chapter defending his apostleship by boasting about the vision he was favored with. (2 Corinthians 12:1-5)  Then he states that in order to prevent him from being filled with pride and vanity, he was given a physical ailment which grieved him.  Paul asked The Lord God to remove it but the answer to his prayer was ‘no’.

Application:

The Lord God hears our prayers. (1 Peter 3:12)  Sometimes we do not get what we ask for because His answer to us is “no”.  Sometimes we ask for things which do not glorify God. (John 14:13)  There are times when He allows things to happen to us in order to get our attention.  We need to acknowledge Him in all things. (Proverbs 3:6)  We even need to see the silver lining in every storm cloud. (James 1:2)  Bad things which happen to us can work out for our good. (Genesis 50:20 and Romans 8:28)  In all things, we should give God glory.  His grace is sufficient for us.  His power can be revealed though our weakness.

BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS AND FALSE DOCTRINE

Proclamation:

“For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached … or a different gospel from the one you accepted … such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ.  And no wonder, Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.  It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness.  Their end will be what their actions deserve.”  2 Corinthians 11:4-15 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth.  In this chapter, Paul continues his discourse on the false teachers.  He says that he will continue his attack on them and no one can stop him. (2 Corinthians 11:10-12)   Those false prophets deceive the people just as the serpent deceived Eve in the Garden of Eden. (2 Corinthians 11:3)  He ends the chapter by recounting the trials and suffering that he has gone through. (2 Corinthians 11:16-33)

Application:

An important reason for reading and studying The Word of God is to be able to recognize when someone is presenting something which is different and wrong.  Eloquent speech can be full of lies which are presented artfully.  Doctrines, philosophies, religions, and teachings should be compared to God’s Holy Word before they are accepted as true.  Satan is continuously roaming the earth, back and forth, seeking those whom he may destroy. (Job 1:6-7 and 1 Peter 5:8)  He is cunning and crafty, and he is full of lies. (John 8:44)  Do not be deceived by those who come presenting lies. (Deuteronomy 11:16 and Luke 21:8)  As the saying goes, “all that glitters is not gold.”  Also beware of those who come glorifying themselves and not glorifying The Lord God.

BELIEVERS ARE AT WAR WITH THE WORLD

Proclamation:

“For thought we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.  The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world.  On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God …”  2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth.  In this chapter, Paul offers a defense of his ministry and his attack on the false teachers who oppose the gospel of Christ.  Though physically weak in statue, Paul spoke boldly against them through the power of God. (2 Corinthians 10:10)

Application:

Because we are in Christ and He is within us, we are physically in this world but not of this world. (John 8:23)  The life of every believer is battle against Satan, and his principalities and powers, and the men of the world which he uses to corrupt the hearts of believers. (Ephesians 6:12)  The more useful we are to the purpose of God and His kingdom, the more we are attacked.  That is why we need to put on the whole armor of God so that we can stand strong against the devil. (Ephesians 6:11-18)  We must be on guard because the battle is not physical but psychological and spiritual.  The devil is after our mind and our heart, and if he can’t get them, he will attempt to destroy our credibility, influence, and effectiveness.  In truth, the battle against Satan is not ours, but God’s. (2 Chronicles 20:15)  We are just pawns in this game of chess, used for His purpose.  We need to make sure that we are ready for service in His army.  However, in this war we will be victorious. (1 Corinthians 15:57)  To God be the glory!

AS WE SOW SO SHALL WE ALSO REAP

Proclamation:

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.  Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”  2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth.  Here Paul is continuing the topic he began in the previous chapter, requesting a generous gift from the believers in Corinth to help the believers in Macedonia. (2 Corinthians 9:1-5)  He tells them that they will be rewarded in the same manner as they give.  He tells them that God will bless them abundantly and that for helping the poor, their righteousness will endure forever. (2 Corinthians 9:8-9)  He also says that God will increase what they have and enrich them in every way so that they can continue to be generous in the future. (2 Corinthians 9:10-11)

Application:

As believers, we are encouraged to give to and help the less fortunate.  The Bible says we will be blessed for doing so. (Proverbs 22:9)  Paul quotes The Old Testament when he says, “They have scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” (Psalm 112:9)  Jesus said that as we treat the least of His people, He will take it as if we have done it to Him. (Matthew 25:35-45)  Jesus also said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)  If you want more, try giving more of what it is that you want.  That applies to smiles, love, and money.  Because as we give, so shall we receive. (Luke 6:38)  Remember, when a seed is planted, and it grows, it does not just bring forth one seed but it produces many seeds, sometimes thirty, sixty, or even a hundred seeds. (Matthew 13:8 and 13:23)  Think about a kernel of corn, when it is planted it produces a plant with several ears of corn, each of which has more than sixty kernels of corn on them.  There are two very important points here.  First, we will only reap the same thing that we sowed.  Secondly, we get back more of what we sowed than we gave out.  The Lord God can bless us abundantly with all that we need and even with more than we need. (2 Corinthians 9:8)

CHRIST BECAME POOR SO THAT WE MIGHT BE RICH

Proclamation:

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.”  2 Corinthians 8:9 (NIV)

Explanation:

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth.  In order to help the generous believers in Macedonia, who are undergoing a severe trial, Paul is requesting a generous gift from the believers in Corinth. (2 Corinthians 8:1-3)  Since the believers in Corinth excelled in everything, including faith, speech, knowledge, earnestness, and love, Paul is asking them to excel in the grace of giving. (2 Corinthians 8:7)  He reminded them that The Lord Jesus, The Christ, was rich but became poor for their sake, so that they through His poverty might become rich.  Paul encouraged them to match their willingness to help with following through and actually helping by giving according to their means. (2 Corinthians 8:11-12)  He urged them to share so that none of the believers would do without.  Then he quoted from the Old Testament scriptures (Exodus 16:18) to support his request. (2 Corinthians 8:13-15)  He ended by saying that he was sending Titus to them to collect the offering.

Application:

The Bible teaches us that we should help those who are in need.  Those of us who have should share with those who have not.  It is better to give than to receive. (Amos 20:35)  When we help those who are in need, we are actually lending to The Lord and He will repay us for helping them. (Proverbs 19:17)  When we are generous and provide a blessing to others, we will also be blessed. (Proverbs 11:25)  Remember what Christ did for us.  He left the splendor of heaven, came to earth and became poor, and was rejected and crucified for us.