AFTER DEATH THEN THE JUDGMENT

PROCLAMATION

“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.”  Hebrews 9:27-28 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the unknown human author of The Book of Hebrews under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to the Hebrew believers, and indirectly to all believers.  In this ninth chapter the author begins by discussing the early earthly tabernacle. (Hebrews 9:1-7)  Then he goes on to discuss the blood of Christ versus the blood of ceremonial animals. (Hebrews 9:11-14)  Then he presents the importance of the blood and concludes by stating that without the shedding of blood there can be no remission of sin. (Hebrews 9:22)  He ends the chapter stating that Christ did not offer Himself again and again as the high priest did by entering The Holy of Holies in the tabernacle each year. (Hebrews 9:25)  Christ came to earth once to sacrifice Himself for all sin. (Hebrews 9:26)  He will come again, but that time will not be to sacrifice Himself for sin, it will be to gather the believers unto Himself. (Hebrews 9:28)

 

APPLICATION

When we think about the birth of Christ, we need to remember that He came to earth to redeem us and pay the price for our sins.  The price for sin is death. (Roman 6:23)  Jesus, The Christ, shed His blood and died for our sins. (John 1:29 and 19:30-34)  The next time that He comes it will be to gather all of His believers unto Himself (Hebrews 9:28) and we will meet Him in the air. (1 Thessalonians 4:17)  He will also come back again to bring judgment to all of the non-believers.  Bible scholar J. Vernon McGee put it this way, “either your sin is on you, or it is on Christ.”  If you have not accepted Christ as your personal savior then you must pay the price for your sins and you will see Him after death as judge at the Great White Throne judgment. (Revelation 20:11-15)  Repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 4:17)

 

OUR CONFESSED SINS ARE FORGIVEN AND FORGOTTEN

PROCLAMATION

“For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”  Hebrews 8:12 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the unknown human author of The Book of Hebrews under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to the Hebrew believers, and indirectly to all believers.  The author begins this eighth chapter by talking about the new high priest, Jesus, and the new covenant. (Hebrews 8:1-9)  Then, according to the author, The Lord God said that He would write this new covenant on the minds and hearts of His people, and He will be their God. (Hebrews 8:10)  Then The Lord God said that He would not only forgive the sins of His people but that He would also no longer remember their sins. (Hebrews 8:12)

 

APPLICATION

This text indicates that as believers when we confess our sins and ask to be forgiven that there will be a full forgiveness and complete pardon for our sins. (Hebrews 8:12 and1 John 1:9)  The Lord God will not bring our forgiven sins to His mind.  He will be merciful unto us.  However, this does not give us the right to go out and continually repeat our sins.  If our prayer requests to be forgiven is not sincere, then they will not be answered.  Jesus said that some who calls upon the name of The Lord will be told to depart from Him because they were workers of iniquity. (Matthew 7:21-23)  Only the fervent prayers of the righteous are effective and very productive. (James 5:16)

 

JESUS THE CHRIST IS THE PERFECT PERMANENT HIGH PRIEST

PROCLAMATION

“Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood.  Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.  Such a priest truly meets our need; one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.”  Hebrews 7:23-26 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by an unknown human author under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to the Hebrew believers and indirectly to all believers.  In this seventh chapter the author begins by describing Melchizedek and how great he was. (Hebrews 7:1-10)  Then he compares Jesus to Melchizedek. (Hebrews 7:11-16)  Jesus was declared a priest by an oath and not by His pedigree. (Hebrews 7:17-22)  Jesus is greater than all of the other priests because He lives forever, and He is perfect.  He can save a person completely, and He is always available to intercede for them.  Unlike the other priests, Jesus does not need to offer regular sacrifices because He offered Himself as a sacrifice for all sins on Calvary. (Hebrews 7:27)  Men are appointed as priests with all of their weaknesses and shortcomings, but The Son of God, has no weaknesses or shortcomings.  He is omnipotent (Matthew 28:18), omniscient, and without sin. (2 Corinthians 5:21)  He was, is, and will be perfect.  He was appointed as the perfect priest forever. (Hebrews 7:28)

 

APPLICATION

Human priests, bishops, elders, overseers, and pastors, with all of their sins, weaknesses, and shortcomings, can help us understand The Word of God.  However, they come and go, they live and die, and they cannot save themselves or us.  Only Jesus, The Christ, can save us.  Believers can pray to God anytime, but we can only come to Him through Christ. (John 14:6)  He is our perfect high priest who lives forever and who sits at the right hand of God, The Father, making intercessions for us. (Hebrews 7:24-25)  We all need to acknowledge Him and praise Him for who He is.  Thank God for Jesus.

 

THE LORD GOD WILL NOT FORGET OUR GOOD WORKS

PROCLAMATION

“God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.  We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized.  We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.”  Hebrews 6:10-12 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by an unknown human author under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to the Hebrew believers and indirectly to all believers.  In this sixth chapter the author urges the people of God to move on “from milk to meat,” from the elementary teachings of God to the more mature doctrine. (Hebrews 6:1-3)  He then begins to discuss those who have been enlightened by The Word of God and then fallen away. (Hebrews 6:4-8)  Although The Bible makes it clear that once we are saved, we cannot lose our salvation.  We cannot be taken out of the hand of God. (John 10:27-29)  We may fall out of fellowship with Him, but we will not lose the relationship.  Then he goes on to say that The Lord God will not forget their good works. (Hebrews 6:10)  He concludes the chapter by encouraging them to persevere in faith because of the certainty of God’s promise. (Hebrews 6:13-20)

 

APPLICATION

The Lord God knows everything about everything, and He remembers all that we do.  We are encouraged to do good so that men can see our good works and give God glory. (Matthew 5:16)  Our good works will not save us.  Our salvation is based upon our belief in Christ.  It is an unearned gift from God. (Ephesians 2:8-9)  However, we will be rewarded for doing good works when we have to give an account of our stewardship. (Luke 16:2 and Matthew 25: 21 and 23)  The Lord considers the good that we do to those who are in need as if we had done it unto Him. (Matthew 25:35-40)  So, keep on doing good works and helping God’s people and we will receive God’s promise.

 

WE SHOULD BE TEACHING OTHERS INSTEAD WE NEED TO BE TAUGHT

PROCLAMATION

“In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s Word all over again.  You need milk, not solid food!  Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness.  But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.”  Hebrews 5:12-14 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by an unknown human author, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the Hebrew believers and indirectly to all believers.  In this fifth chapter the author begins by describing Jesus, The Christ, as the ultimate high priest.  He compares Him to Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:5-6) whose name literally means “king of righteousness or justice.”  Melchizedek was a Canaanite king who reigned in Salem, and who kept up religion and worship of the true God and was honored by Abraham for doing so. (Hebrew 7:1-2)  The author states that the Hebrews had a number of advantages over other people including being descendants of Abraham, being exposed to the law of Moses and the writings of The Old Testament, having heard the ministry of Christ directly or from His apostles, and having received the gift of The Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.  They had this for thirty years and they should have grown.  Instead of being teachers of others they were in need of being taught the basics principals themselves.  Instead of being ready for the meat of the gospel, the advanced course, they were in need of milk, the basic beginning lessons. 

 

APPLICATION

Today there are many adult Christians who can say that they were “brought up in the church” or that they have “been in church all of their life.”  This text proves that just being around The Word of God for a long period of time does not mean that a person has grown in knowledge and understanding of it.  Considering the number of years that we have exposed to the teachings of The Bible, we all should be Bible scholars by now and we should be teaching others.  Unfortunately, too many Christians have heard many sermons preached but have not internalized what they heard.  Also, too many believers only open their Bibles on Sunday while they are in church.  If we want to grow in knowledge and understanding of God’s Holy Word and to rightly apply it to our lives, then we need to study it on a regular basis. (2 Timothy 2:15)

GOD JUDGES THE THOUGHTS AND THE HEART OF MAN

PROCLAMATION

“For The Word of God is alive and active.  Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.  Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.  Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.”  Hebrews 4:12-13 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God by an unknown human author to the Hebrew believers, and indirectly to all believers.  In this fourth chapter the author begins by addressing the Sabbath-rest for the people of God.  He attempts to explain what God meant when He said, “… They shall never enter My rest.”  He refers to it as a heavenly rest, the rest of salvation for believers, as opposed to a state of labor and trouble during this life.  This was not a reference to the Sabbath Day, the day of worship, this reference was to salvation for those who heard The Word of God and believed. (Hebrews 4:3-4)  He goes on to say that The Word of God will judge the heart and soul, and the thoughts and attitudes of man.

 

APPLICATION

The Word of God is so powerful that it enters into the deepest part of the heart, the secret and most intimate part, and it fatally wounds the stubborn and hard-hearted while it revives and renews the believer.  The Word of God can affect the mind and heart, the spirit and the soul, of those who hear it and those who preach it.  Only non-believers are unaffected by it and they will have to deal with the consequences of their choice.  The Word of God is the basis for dividing right from wrong, good from bad, and righteous from sinful.  It applies not only to our actions but also to our spoken words and our thoughts.  Thinking sinful thoughts is committing a sin. (Proverbs 23:7 and Matthew 5:28)  God knows everything that we do, say, and think, and we will have to give an account for them. (Matthew 12:36 and Hebrews 4:13)  So, when we pray, we should ask to be forgiven for all of our sinful thoughts, words, and actions.

 

NEVER LET GO OF YOUR BELIEF IN CHRIST

PROCLAMATION

“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from The Living God.  But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.  We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end.”  Hebrews 3:12-14 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God by the unknown human author to the Hebrew believers, and indirectly to all believers.  He begins this third chapter stating that Jesus, The Christ, is greater than Moses. (Hebrews 3:1-6)  Then he warns the people against unbelief by quoting Old Testament scriptures. (Hebrews 3:7-11 is taken from Psalm 95:7-11)  The author goes on to tell them not to turn away from God and not to let their hearts be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.  After that he encourages them to encourage one another and tells them to hold on to their beliefs and convictions.

 

APPLICATION

The storms of life can sometimes knock us down, and sinful temptations can test us, but we should never let go of our belief and conviction in Christ.  Even if we fall into sin, we should never turn away from Christ, and we should never doubt Him.  The devil can tempt us and test us because he knows our weaknesses.  However, there can be no testimony without first having to pass a test.  Since we all have our temptations, let us encourage each other daily.  Let us also share The Word of God with others.  Failure to believe in Christ is the reason for the loss of salvation.  Those who have heard The Word of God and who choose not to believe are lost.  So, let us hold on to our faith and our belief in Christ.

 

FREED FROM THE FEAR OF DEATH

PROCLAMATION

“Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared their humanity so that by His death He might break the power of him who holds the power of death, that is the devil, and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.  For surely it is not angels He helps, but Abraham’s descendants.”  Hebrews 2:14-16 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God by an unknown human author to the Hebrew believers, and indirectly to all believers.  The Bible Book of Hebrews was not written by one of the apostles, but by someone who heard The Word of God spoken by the apostles. (Hebrews 2:3)  The “children” referred to here are the children of God (Hebrews 2:13) whom Jesus, The Christ, calls His brothers and sisters. (Hebrews 2:11-12)  Jesus took on humanity and shared our human experiences so that He might be merciful unto us. (Hebrews 2:17-18)  Then He conquered death for our benefit in order to free us from the fear of it.  Again the author quotes the Old Testament to make his point. (Hebrews 2:6-8 is Psalm 8:4-6; Hebrews 2:12-13 is Psalm 22:22; and Hebrews 2:13 is taken from Isaiah 8:18)

 

APPLICATION

When we as believers pray, we pray to God, The Father, in the name of His Son, Jesus, The Christ, because it was Jesus who put on human flesh and was tempted and suffered.  He is able to relate to and help those of us who are suffering, being tempted, and in need of His help. (Hebrews 2:18)  Jesus said, whatever we ask for in His name would be granted to us if it gave glory to God. (John 14:13)  What He did by His death and resurrection was to free us from the penalty of sin (Roman 6:23) and to free us from the fear of death knowing that we have the victory. (1 Corinthians 15:57 and Romans 8:37)  With our physical death, we just pass from labor to reward, and from an earthly struggle to a joyous eternal life.

 

GOD SPEAKS TO US

PROCLAMATION

“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom also He made the universe.”  Hebrews 1:1-2 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God by an unknown human author to the Hebrew believers, and indirectly to all believers.  The Bible Book of Hebrews begins with two assumptions.  The first is that there is a God, and the second is that God speaks to His people.  God spoke to His people through the prophets. (Hebrews 1:1)  Later, He spoke to His people through His Son, Jesus, The Christ. (Hebrews 1:2)  Now He speaks to us through The Holy Bible.  For most of this first chapter, the author provides evidence that Jesus, The Christ, is superior to the angels (Hebrews 1:5-14) by quoting Old Testament scriptures. (Psalm 2:7, 2 Samuel 7:12-14, Psalm 97:7, Psalm 104:4, Psalm 102:25-27, and Psalm 110:1)

 

APPLICATION

This epistle provides Biblical evidence that Jesus, The Christ, is the Son of God.  By His spoken word He is the creator and sustainer of all things. (Hebrews 1:3)  Before Christ came to earth, God provided guidance to His people through His chosen prophets, from Moses to Malachi. Then He spoke through Jesus, The Christ, who spent most of His earthly ministry teaching.  After He had finished the redemptive work on the cross to save our souls and pay for our sins, Christ returned to heaven and now sits at the right hand of God, The Father. (Hebrews 1:3)  Now, God speaks to us through His Holy Bible.  If we want to know what “thus sayeth The Lord,” we need to read and study The Word of God.  All of the guidance and direction that we need is contained therein.

 

AN EXAMPLE OF BROTHERLY LOVE

PROCLAMATION

“So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.  If he has done you any wrong, or owes you anything, charge it to me.”  Philemon 1:17-18 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Philemon, a fellow preacher, and his wife Apphia, and to their son Archippus.  Paul began this personal letter to his friend Philemon to ask a favor of him.  Paul wants Philemon to accept Onesimus, a slave who ran away from him and is now a believer in Christ, as a brother and not as a slave. (Philemon 1:15-16)  He says to Philemon, “… welcome him as you would welcome me …” (Philemon 1:17-18)  The church meets in their home and Paul wants Onesimus to be welcome there as a brother.

 

APPLICATION

We all have done wrong and at times we need someone to plead our case.  That is what Christ is doing in heaven as He sits at the right hand of God, The Father, making intersessions for us. (Romans 8:34, Colossians 3:1, and Hebrews 12:2)  This is how we should demonstrate our love for our brothers in Christ.  We should speak up for our brothers, not tear them down, and speak highly of them to others.  And as believers, we should welcome all believers as brothers.

 

OUR PEOPLE MUST LEARN TO DO GOOD

PROCLAMATION

“Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not to live unproductive lives.”  Titus 3:14 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Titus, his spiritual son.  Paul began this third and final chapter by telling Titus to remind the people to obey the authorities and to be ready to do whatever is good. (Titus 3:1)  He also told him to tell the people not to slander anyone, and to live peacefully and always to be gentle with everyone. (Titus 3:2)  Paul then reminded Titus that at one time, they were also sinful people, but Christ saved them and changed them. (Titus 3:3-8)  He also told him to tell them to avoid foolish arguments.  He said that they should warn disruptive people about their behavior twice, and then if they persist have nothing to do with them. (Titus 3:9-11)  He ended this letter by urging Titus to meet him at Nicopolis and saying, “Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good …” (Titus 3:12-14)

 

APPLICATION

We need to learn to do good works and then we must work at doing them.  We must first learn what The Lord God considers to be good works, and then we need to work at doing that.  We must also work at avoiding sinful behavior.  Both of these will require a conscious effort on our part because they are contrary to our inherent sinful nature.  We must actively seek to become more Christ-like.  We need to pray and read The Word of God to learn what we should and should not do, and then we need to put that which we have learned into practice.

LIVE GODLY LIVES FOR CHRIST

PROCLAMATION

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.  It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”  Titus 2:11-13 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Titus, his spiritual son.  Paul began this second chapter by instructing Titus what he should teach older men. (Titus 2:1-2)  He followed this with instructions on what to teach older women (Titus 2:3-5), young men (Titus 2:6-8), and slaves. (Titus 2:9-10)  Then Paul told Titus that the grace of God teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and how to live godly lives while we wait for the return of Jesus, The Christ.

 

APPLICATION

The Holy Spirit of God is within all believers and, like Christ, we are in this world but are not of this world. (John 8:23)  We are travelers in this foreign land on our way to a heavenly home.  While we are here, we are to promote the gospel by living godly lives.  Christ gave up His life to redeem us from our sinful wickedness.  We should be eager to please Him to show that we are grateful. (Titus 2:14)  We must learn to say “No” to sinful worldly pleasures, and we must learn to live to the glory of God.

 

KNOWLEDGE CAN STOP THE SPREAD OF DECEPTION

PROCLAMATION

“For there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception … They must be silenced, because they are disrupting whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach …”  Titus 1:10-11 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Titus, his spiritual son who he led to a saving knowledge of The Lord Jesus, The Christ.  Paul began this pastoral epistle by introducing himself (Titus 1:1-3) and then addressing and greeting Titus. (Titus 1:4)  He states that his reason for leaving Titus in Crete was for him to appoint elders in every town.  Paul then cites the qualifications for being an elder and overseer. (Titus 1:5-9)  He then proceeds to talk about the rebellious people, who are false teachers, and the effect they are having on the people. (Titus 1:10-11)  He tell Titus to rebuke them and to ignore the Jewish myths. (Titus 1:13-14)  Paul says, “To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupt and do not believe, nothing is pure.”  The corrupt claim to know God but by their actions they deny Him. (Titus 1:15-16)  

 

APPLICATION

Unfortunately, everyone in the world is not a believer.  Worse yet, there are those people who claim to be believers but actually are not.  There are those who actively try to deceive people by presenting false doctrine which sounds good but is based upon lies.  All believers need to be well informed and knowledgeable enough to recognize and refute false doctrine.  We need to study The Word of God so that we can rightly divide that which is truth from that which is not. (2 Timothy 2:15)  So that we will know for ourselves, and so that we can help those who are being deceived by the false teachers.  We must be knowledgeable because the blind cannot lead the blind to safety. (Matthew 15:14)  Those who do not know cannot help others who do not know.  Only those who know can help those who do not know.

 

TELL THE PEOPLE THE TRUTH

PROCLAMATION

“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine.  Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.  They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”  2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In this fourth and final chapter of his second letter to Timothy, Paul tells him to preach The Word in season and out of season. (2 Timothy 4:1-2)  He says that there will come a time when people will not want to hear it, but he should continue to preach it. (2 Timothy 4:3-5)  Paul states that the time of his death is near, and that he has kept the faith.  He knows that there is a crown waiting for him in heaven. (2 Timothy 4:6-8)  Paul asks Timothy to come to him as soon as he can.  He states that only Luke is still with him, all of the others who had travelled with him have left him. (2 Timothy 4:9-13)  He warns Timothy about Alexander the metal-worker, who had done him great harm. (2 Timothy 4:14-15)  Then he asks God to forgive those who deserted him.  He says God stood by him and gave him strength and allowed him to preach to the Gentiles. (2 Timothy 4:16-18)

 

APPLICATION

Preachers are to preach The Word of God in good times and bad times.  All of us are to speak the truth, and to tell people about the gospel, but some people will not want to hear it.  They will only want to hear what they want to hear; that which makes them feel good or that which agrees with their corrupt sentiments or sinful lusts.  When we meet resistance to God’s Holy Word, we are not to argue with them.  We are to just shake it off like we shake the dust off of our shoes and keep on stepping for The Lord God will deal with them. (Matthew 10:14, Mark 6:11, and Luke 9:5)  Let us make sure that when we speak that we are telling the people the truth and not just telling them only what they want to hear.

 

ALL SCRIPTURE IS USEFUL FOR TEACHING

PROCLAMATION

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”  2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In this third chapter of this second letter to Timothy, Paul tells him that there will be terrible times in the last days of earth and he goes on to describe the sinful activities that will occur. (2 Timothy 3:1-8)  He tells Timothy to have nothing to do with such people.  They will not succeed for very long. (2 Timothy 3:9)  He tells him that he knows what he has been taught and he knows what Paul has been through.  Then he again charges Timothy to preach and teach what he has learned. (2 Timothy 3:10-15)  Paul says that all Scripture is from God and is good for teaching and for preparing the people of God to do good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

 

APPLICATION

The Word of God was written by men under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God and it is therefore referred to as “God-breathed.”  All of God’s people should read and study The Holy Scriptures, not just preachers and deacons.  Only by reading and studying will we be able to correctly divide the word of truth and distinguish that which is false. (2 Timothy 2:15)  We must have a good understanding of The Word of God in order to explain it and teach it to others. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)  But hearing it and reading it is not enough, we must also be doers of The Word. (James 1:22)  Jesus, The Christ, said, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)  We are a chosen people who have been called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9) to work in some type of kingdom building activity. (James 2:26)  We are being watched, and our actions speak louder than our words.  Those who can teach, let them teach; those who can’t teach, please do something else.

 

STUDY TO SHOW THYSELF APPROVED UNTO GOD

PROCLAMATION

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”  2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In this second chapter of this second letter to Timothy, Paul repeats his appeal for him to be strong in the grace that is Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:1)  He encourages Timothy to join him in the suffering as a soldier.  He compares it to an athlete in competition and also to a hardworking farmer. (2 Timothy 2:3-7)  He reminds him again that he is chained to a criminal but says that The Word of God is not chained. (2 Timothy 2:8-10)  Then he reminds Timothy of a trustworthy old saying about dying and living with Christ; and enduring and reigning with Him. (2 Timothy 2:11-13)  He tells him to remind the people of the things which he has been taught and to warn them about quarreling over words.  Then Paul tells Timothy to “study” so that he can correctly divide the truth from that which is not. (2 Timothy 2:14-15)  He also tells him not to engage in idle conversation and to avoid those who engage in false teaching.  He says that the people of God are made for special purposes and they should flee from the evil desires of their youth. (2 Timothy 2:16-26)

 

APPLICATION

We all need to be diligent students of The Word of God.  We need to know what The Bible says and know what it means.  False prophets will present things which are not in The Bible and intentionally misinterpret what it does say.  We need to “Study … rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 – KJV)  When people tell you that something is in The Bible, ask them for the book, chapter, and verse where it can be found so that you can verify it for yourself.  When we know what The Bible says, we should do what it says. (James 1:22)  We need to humble ourselves and pray and seek His face and turn from our wicked ways. (2 Chronicles 7:14)  We need to flee from the evil desires of our youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. (2 Timothy 2:22)  None of us will ever be perfect, but when we know better, we should do better.  Let us do that which gives God glory.

IT IS WITHIN US

PROCLAMATION

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.”  2 Timothy 1:5 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  Paul begins this second letter to Timothy with a self-introduction and Christian salutation. (2 Timothy 1:1-2)  He thanks God and says that he prays for him day and night.  He also says that he longs to see him again. (2 Timothy 1:3-4)  Then Paul tells Timothy that the sincere faith in God which he saw in his grandmother and in his mother, he now sees in him. (2 Timothy 1:5)  He encourages him to fan the flame, the gift of God which is within him, which gives him power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:6-7)  Paul tells him not to be ashamed of God or of him in his current situation chained in prison. (2 Timothy 1:8-14)  He ends this first chapter talking about those who were loyal and disloyal to him. (2 Timothy 1:15-18)

 

APPLICATION

Most of us acquired our religious beliefs as children from our parents.  Their instructions, guidance, directions, and examples left a significant imprint on us.  We may have rebelled as teenagers and went our own different way as adults, but most of us retained our childhood training.  As we read and study The Bible for ourselves and grow in knowledge and holiness, we find that some of the things which we were taught were not Bible based.  None of us will ever be perfect, but when we know better, we should do better.  The moment that we accepted Christ, we received the indwelling of The Holy Spirit of God and became babes in Christ.  Our growth in Christ requires an active effort on our part but the foundation is already within us.

 

THE LOVE OF MONEY

PROCLAMATION

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.  Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”  1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In this sixth and final chapter of this first letter to Timothy, Paul continued the discourse which he began in chapter five.  Paul begins by telling Timothy how he should treat slaves and how they should treat their masters. (1 Timothy 6:1-2)  Then he tells him about riches and personal gain and ends with a statement regarding the love of money being the root of all evil. (1 Timothy 6:6-10)  He ends the chapter with a final charge to Timothy telling him basically to keep the faith. (1 Timothy 6:11-21)

 

APPLICATION

There is nothing wrong with money of itself, it is the love of money that is the root of all evil.  Those who covet money will do wrong to family and friends in order to get more of it.  The desire to acquire money will cause people to take advantage of anyone and everyone for their personal gain.  It is the pursuit of ill-gotten gain which is the problem that has led to sinful behavior. (1 Timothy 6:9)  Additionally, those who acquire large sums of money tend to put their faith in their money rather than in God.  Money is just the means to an end, a medium of exchange.  Don’t sell your soul in order to get it.  The greatest personal gain is godliness and contentment. (1 Timothy 6:6)

  

BE CAREFUL HOW YOU REPRIMAND OTHERS

PROCLAMATION

“Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father.  Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity.”  1 Timothy 5:1-2 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In the fifth chapter of this pastoral epistle, Paul begins by telling Timothy how to treat older men and women, and those who are younger than he is. (1 Timothy 5:1-2)  Then he goes into a lengthy discussion regarding the treatment of widows. (1 Timothy 5:3-16)  He follows this with instructions regarding the treatment of the elders of the church. (1 Timothy 5:17-21)   

 

APPLICATION

The advice which the apostle Paul gives Timothy, the young preacher, regarding rebuking, or reprimanding, or correcting people is appropriate for all of us.  We are taught to let all of our conversation be full of grace and seasoned with salt. (Colossians 4:6)  Salt adds a certain flavor to food, but salt has a purifying influence; it was used to preserve meat before refrigeration.  Our words, like salt, should add something and be helpful to the hearer, including our words of correction or reprimand.  A soft word turns away wrath, while a harsh word can stir up anger. (Proverbs 15:1)  We should speak to our elders respectfully and differently than we speak to those our own age and younger.  However, all of our conversation should be done out of love, brotherly love.

 

DO NOT ABANDON THE FAITH

PROCLAMATION

“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.”  1 Timothy 4:1 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In this fourth chapter of this pastoral epistle, Paul begins by stating that The Holy Spirit of God says that there will come a time when some people will turn away from the faith.  They will follow deceiving spirits and prefer to be taught things by demons. (1 Timothy 4:1-2)  Paul advised Timothy to explain the truth to the people. (1 Timothy 4:4-11)  He said that Timothy should not let anyone look down on him because he is young.  He should lead by example in what he says and what he does.  Paul told him to read the scriptures, to preach, and to teach.  He also told him not to neglect his gift, to be diligent in his activities, and to watch his life and doctrine closely. (1 Timothy 4:12-16)

 

APPLICATION

Everyone that we meet will not believe in Christ, and some people will claim to be believers only to later on turn away and follow some cult.  As believers we should not let our worldly friends lead us away from Christ and down the road to destruction.  We need to pray, to read The Word of God, to exercise our faith, and to fellowship with other believers in order to grow spiritually and to stay encouraged.  Everything that we hear, see, and read should be compared to what The Bible says before we accept it as the truth.  The devil is busy.  He is going back and forth all over the earth seeking whom he may devour. (Job 1:7 and 1 Peter 5:8)  Put on the whole armor of God and stand strong, do not abandon the faith. (Ephesians 6:11)

QUALIFICATIONS FOR CHURCH LEADERS

PROCLAMATION

“Here is a trustworthy saying: ‘Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.’ ”  1 Timothy 3:1 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In this pastoral epistle Paul began by stating the qualifications one must have in order to become a bishop, or an overseer, or a pastor. (1 Timothy 3:2-7)  Then he goes on to state the qualifications for becoming a deacon. (1 Timothy 3:8-10 and 3:12-13)  He interrupts his discussion regarding deacons with a statement about women. (1 Timothy 3:11)  Some Bible scholars feel that this applies to the wife of the pastor or the wife of a deacon.  Some Bible scholars feel that it applies to deaconesses or any woman in a leadership position within the church.  Paul ends this chapter by stating his reasons for writing this letter. (1 Timothy 3:14-16) 

 

APPLICATION

Any individual who desires or holds a leadership position within the church should read this chapter.  It has been said that those who lead or teach will be held to a higher standard.  Just like those to whom much is given, of them shall much more be required. (Luke 12:48)  In my opinion, this should apply to all positions of leadership, including secular positions, elected, appointed, and all others.

 

PRAY FOR OUR LEADERS

PROCLAMATION

“I urge … that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”  1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to provide him with directions and instructions. (1 Timothy 1:2)  In this pastoral epistle Paul exhorted Timothy to pray for all people, including the leaders and officials who had authority over them. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)  He said that God wanted all people to be saved and to know the truth. (1 Timothy 2:3-6)  Then Paul gave Timothy instructions regarding role and behavior of men and women in the church. (1 Timothy 2:8-15)

 

APPLICATION

We all need prayer, and we should pray for one another. (James 5:16)  While we should pray for everyone, we should pray special prayers for our leaders, elected political officials, secular authorities, and religious leaders.  They need God’s help as their decisions and actions can have an effect the lives of believers.  They can make it difficult for us to live peaceful lives.  Some of them are trying to do the right thing but need help as they stand alone for that which is right.  Some of them can make honest mistakes while others have thoughts of planned malice and deception.  Some seek personal gain and the expense of the people that they should be serving.  Whatever the reason for the behavior, all of our leaders need our prayers.  

 

OPPOSE FALSE TEACHING

PROCLAMATION

“As I urged you … command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer or to devote themselves to myths …”  1 Timothy 1:3-4 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to Timothy, his son in the ministry, to direct and encourage him in his efforts. (1 Timothy 1:2)  When Paul was leaving Ephesus heading to Macedonia, he urged Timothy to stay in Ephesus and address the teachers of false doctrine. (1 Timothy 1:3-7)  Then he explained the purpose of the law to him. (1 Timothy 1:8-11)  Paul thanked God for His grace and mercy because he had once been a blasphemer, a persecutor of Christians, and generally a violent man. (1 Timothy 1:12-17)  Afterwards, he renewed his charge to Timothy to keep the faith and to hold on to that which he was taught. (1 Timothy 1:18-19)

 

APPLICATION

In times like these, we will hear men proposing all types of false doctrine.  Some of our political leaders are claiming to be believers, but their policies and programs are going against The Word of God.  Television programs are showing things glorifying demons and devils.  Fornication is being promoted in advertisements and in the movies.  Some people are misrepresenting The Word of God from the pulpit attempting to redirect and confuse the people of God.  We need to read and study The Bible (2 Timothy 2:15) so that we can recognize false doctrine and oppose it.  Just because everyone is doing it does not make it right.  Don’t just follow the crowd, the road to destruction is well traveled. (Matthew 7:13)  Some people may not want to hear the truth; they only want to hear that which pleases them. (2 Timothy 4:3)  Do not keep silent when you hear that which is wrong, respectfully oppose the teachers of false doctrine.  Our silence may be taken by them and by others as agreement.

 

KEEP AWAY FROM IDLE AND DISRUPTIVE PEOPLE

PROCLAMATION

“In the name of The Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.”  2 Thessalonians 3:6 (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 Thessalonica.  Paul begins this third and final chapter of this second letter by asking them to pray for him and his fellow laborers. (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2)  Then he offers a brief prayer for them. (2 Thessalonians 3:5)  Afterwards, he told them to keep away from every believer who is disorderly and who does not live according to the way that they have been taught.  He repeated this later in the letter and added that they were not to treat the disobedient one as an enemy, but to make them feel ashamed of their behavior and to warn them. (2 Thessalonians 3:14-15)  He also told them that if an idle brother is unwilling to work, then he should not be given food to eat. (2 Thessalonians 3:10)  He ended the letter with a brief prayerful benediction. (2 Thessalonians 3:16-18)

 

APPLICATION

We should be very careful regarding the company that we keep and the friends that we associate with.  “Birds of a feather will flock together.” (Author Unknown)  “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3)  As believers we are to witness to the lost, but we are not to fraternize with them on their level.  If we cannot pull them up with The Word of God, then we should not let them pull us down into their sinful behavior.  If we cannot help them, it is better for us to avoid them.  We should also avoid those who claim to be believers but will not engage in any kingdom building activities.  God is not the author of confusion. (1 Corinthians 14:33)  So, believers should not the source of disruption in the church.  Our actions speak much louder than our words.

 

STAND AND HOLD ON

PROCLAMATION

“So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.  May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.”  2 Thessalonians 2:15-16 (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 Thessalonica.  He began this second chapter of his second letter by discussing the antichrist and reminded them that he had told them about these things when he was with them. (2 Thessalonians 2:1-5)  The coming of the antichrist will be in accordance with how Satan works, using displays of power through signs and wonders to support his lies and deceptions. (2 Thessalonians 2:7-10)  The false prophets were spreading the word that the Day of The Lord had already come, whereas Paul was telling the believers that it had not come yet. (2 Thessalonians 2:2-3)  Then Paul encourages them to stand firm and hold on to the teachings which they had received. (2 Thessalonians 2:15)  He ends by praying that God will encourage and strengthen them. (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)

 

APPLICATION

After the rapture, the day of The Lord will begin.  The Day of The Lord is a technical phrase which refers to the period of time beginning with the Great Tribulation. (Read Matthew 24:3-28)  The antichrist will reveal himself during this period and deceive the people presenting himself as God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4)  He will have power and he will perform signs and wonders to support his deception. (2 Thessalonians 2:8-10)  As bad as things are in the world today, they will get worse because the day of The Lord has not yet come.  When it does come, believers will not be here to see it because it will occur after the rapture.  So, don’t be left behind.  Keep the faith and keep spreading The Word of God by mouth and by actions.  Put on the whole armor of God so that we will be able to stand against the attacks of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11)  Then we can rest assured that we are safely within God’s hands. (John 10:29)

 

GOD WILL REPAY THOSE WHO TROUBLE BELIEVERS

PROCLAMATION

“God is just; He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well.  This will happen when The Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with His powerful angels.  He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.”  2 Thessalonians 1:6-8 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, in his second letter to the believers in the church at Thessalonica.  After he introduces himself and greets them, Paul states that he thanks God for them because their faith in God and because their love for one another is growing and increasing. (2 Thessalonians 1:1-3)  He tells them that he brags to other churches about their perseverance and faith in the midst of their persecutions and trials. (2 Thessalonians 1:4)  Then he tells them that God is just, and that He will pay back trouble to all those who trouble them.  God will punish all non-believers when The Lord Jesus returns. (2 Thessalonians 1:8-10)  He ends this first chapter by telling them that he prays for them. (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12)

 

APPLICATION

Those who do believers wrong and cause them to suffer will be punished by The Lord God.  He said, “… Vengeance is mine; I well repay …” (Romans 12:19)  The Lord Jesus is coming back to gather up His church (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17) and to judge the wicked.  All mankind will see Him when He returns (Revelation 1:7) but our perspectives will differ.  Every knee shall bow to Him (Isaiah 45:23 and Romans 14:11) but for different reasons.  Some of the people will see Him as Savior, while others will see Him as judge.  How we see Him will depend upon our relationship with him.

 

REJOICE AND PRAY AND GIVE THANKS

PROCLAMATION

“And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.  Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 (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 Thessalonica.  Paul begins the fifth and final chapter of this letter by stating that he does not have to remind them that the day of The Lord is coming for they are children of the light. (1 Thessalonians 5:1-8)  He encouraged them to build one another up, just as they were already doing.  He also told them to acknowledge those among them who work hard for The Lord and to hold them in high regard. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)  Then he urged them to warn the wrongdoers, to help the weak, to encourage the down-hearted, and to be patient with everyone.  Finally he told them to rejoice always, to pray continually, and to give thanks to God in all situations. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)  He said that they should hold on to that which is good and reject every kind of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22)

 

APPLICATION

We should acknowledge those among us who are doing a good job and warn those who are doing poorly.  We should encourage the depressed and help those who are in need.  Remember the old saying, “There, but for the grace of God, go you or I.”  We should always be patient with others, for at some point in our lives someone was patient with us.  Believers should not walk around with a negative attitude.  We are to rejoice because everything is going to work out in our favor and for our good. (Romans 8:28)  So we should count everything as a joy, even our storms, trials, and tribulations. (James 1:2)  We should have a prayerful attitude and pray often about everything. (Luke 18:1, Ephesians 6:18, and 1 Thessalonians 5:15)  We should also acknowledge that God’s hand is in everything (Proverbs 3:6) and then we should thank Him for everything. (1 Chronicles 16:8, Psalm 92:1, and 1 Thessalonians 5:18)  Everything that happens is either a blessing or a lesson to be learned.