EVERY KNEE WILL BOW

PROCLAMATION

“Wherefore God hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name; That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God, The Father.”  Philippians 2:9-11 (KJV)

 

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 second chapter by encouraging them to have the same mindset as Jesus, The Christ. (Philippians 2:1-5)  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.  There will come a day when every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus, The Christ, is Lord of all. (Philippians 2:9-11)  Then he encouraged them to do all that they do without grumbling or complaining.  Their Christ-like behavior will cause them to shine among men. (Philippians 2:14-16)

 

APPLICATION

Our salvation is based upon our belief in Jesus, The Christ, The Son of God, and His earthly birth, life, teachings, rejection, crucifixion, 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, making intercessions for us. (Mark 16:19, Luke 22:69, Acts 2:33, and Hebrews 12:2)  The day is coming when everyone will know that Jesus Christ 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)

 

GROW IN LOVE AND KNOWLEDGE

PROCLAMATION

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; That ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”  Philippians 1:9-11 (KJV)

 

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 offered a prayer for them knowing that the good work which Christ had begun in them would be completed. (Philippians 1:3-6)  He prayed that they would grow in love and in knowledge and in insight, so that they would know and do what is good and right to the glory and praise of God. (Ephesians 1:9-11)  The Paul went on to explain how his present incarceration had helped the spread of the gospel.  Then he told them how the gospel should be preached. (Philippians 1:12-18)  He stated that for him to live is to live in Christ, and for him to die he will gain.  He wanted his life and his death to give God glory. (Philippians 1:20-24)  He ended by telling them that he knows that they will be happy to see him when he comes to them.  He told them to let their conversation be Christ-like whether he is with them or not.  He said that they should not be terrified by their enemies; they are not only to believe in Christ but they would suffer for Christ’s sake. (Philippians 1:25-30)

 

APPLICATION

As believers we are to love all of God’s people, even those who are difficult to love.  We should love that person but make it clear to them that we do not always love their behavior.  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 we are left on our own we will often choose the wrong path.  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 always speak in such a way as to be helpful and to edify the body of Christ.  We should THINK before we speak, and make sure that what we say is Truthful, Helpful, Informative, Necessary, and Kind.  In all that we do, it should be done to the glory and praise of God.

 

PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD

PROCLAMATION

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in The Lord, and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  Wherefore take unto you the full armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."  Ephesians 6:10-13 (KJV)

 

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 educate and train them in the ways of The Lord. (Ephesians 6:4 and Proverbs 22:6)  Paul also offered 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.  Paul told them to protect themselves by putting on the complete armor of God.  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, to stand our ground, and to keep the faith. (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 we will need the help of The Lord God in order to withstand and survive the devil’s attacks.  We have already been granted the victory through Jesus, The Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)  Stand firm with the help from God.

 

GUIDELINES FOR GOOD CHRISTIAN LIVING

PROCLAMATION

“I therefore, the prisoner of The Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called; With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavoring to keep the unity of The Spirit in the bond of peace.”  Ephesians 4:1-3 (KJV)

 

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 this fourth chapter with these words, urging them to live a life which was worthy of their call to be Christians. (Ephesians 4:1-3)  He told them that Christ had given each one of them sufficient grace to accomplish this 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 4:23-24)  He followed this 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 God’s 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 than we were, and the change should be visible to all of the people 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 build up the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:12)  We should also know, or learn, enough to help the uninformed, and so that we can refute those who present us with false doctrine. (Ephesians 4:14-15)

 

A PRAYER FOR THE STRENGTHENING OF BELIEVERS

PROCLAMATION

“That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; That ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.”  Ephesians 3:16-19 (KJV)

 

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 was 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. (Ephesians 3:14-19)

 

APPLICATION

As believers we should pray for each other.  In fact, we should pray for all believers.  This prayer has four petitions on behalf of believers.  First, that all believers would be strengthened in The Spirit. (Ephesians 3:16)  Second, that Jesus, The Christ would dwell in our hearts by faith. (Ephesians 3:17)  Third, that we would know the extent of the love of Christ and be grounded in it. (Ephesians 3:17-18)  And fourth, that we would be filled up with all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:19)  This is a prayer that we should pray for all believers so that we would all be strengthened and grow in the knowledge of God and His love.  This is something that we all could use as we continue our Christian journey in this sin-sick world where temptation and evil are all around us.

 

IT IS BY GRACE THAT WE ARE SAVED

PROCLAMATION

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast.  For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk I them.”  Ephesians 2:8-10 (KJV)

 

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.  Paul 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 on Calvary. (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)

 

APPLICATION

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, (John 9:4) and let us do the very best that we can, (Ecclesiastes 9:10) because one day we will make the transition from labor to reward.  On that day in death we will be absent from the body and present with The Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8)

 

 

MAY WE BE SPIRITUALLY ENLIGHTENED

PROCLAMATION

“That The God of our Lord Jesus Christ, The Father of glory, may give unto you The Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him.  The eyes of your understanding being  enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power for us who believe …”  Ephesians 1:17-19 (KJV)

 

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 which they had already received through Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 1:1-14)  Then he offers a prayer for the believers in Ephesus so that God would bless them with The Spirit of wisdom, knowledge, and revelation, so that they would know Him better.  Paul also prayed that these believers would be enlightened, and know that to which God called them, and know the riches of His glorious inheritance that He has for His people, and that they would know His incomparable great power. (Ephesians 1:17-19)  Paul ends the chapter 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

We need to recognize that without the help of God, people would not understand that the church is the body of Christ.  That is the way 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, especially about The Word of God.  We all also need to develop an appreciation for the almighty power of God working within us.  Additionally, we all need to develop a greater appreciation for the future blessings that He has called us to receive by His Holy Word and His Holy Spirit. 

 

 

DO GOOD TO ALL PEOPLE

PROCLAMATION

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked; for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to The Spirit shall of The Spirit reap life everlasting.  And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.  As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.”  Galatians 6:7-10 (KJV)

 

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 telling them that if someone falls into sin, they should forgive that person 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 also reap.  He encourages them to not grow weary of doing good for in due time they will be rewarded. (Galatians 6:7-9)  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 also 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 we should do it because it is the Christ-like thing to do.  It may not come back to us right away, but we will be rewarded for doing good.  We should treat everybody right and help those that we can.  Remember, Christ said that as we have treated the least of His brothers, we have done it to Him. (Matthew 25:40)

 

 

LET US WALK THE WALK

PROCLAMATION

“This I say then, walk in The Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.  For the flesh lusteth against The Spirit, and The Spirit against the flesh;  These are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.  But if ye be led of The Spirit, ye are not under the law.”  Galatians 5:16-18 (KJV)

 

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.  Then he goes on to list some of the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21) which he follows by listing the fruit of The Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23)  He ends by saying: “If we live in The Spirit, let us walk in The Spirit. (Galatians 5:25)

 

APPLICATION

Believers should walk the walk of The Holy 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 Holy 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 Holy Spirit is always for the benefit of others, whereas the desires of the flesh are always selfish.  Let us walk in The Spirit and walk the walk, and not just talk the talk.

 

WE ARE THE ADOPTED SONS OF GOD

PROCLAMATION

“But when the fullness of time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  And because ye are sons, God hath sent The Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, ‘Abba, Father.’ ”  Galatians 4:4-6 (KJV)

 

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. (Galatians 4:1-3)  He states that Christ came into the world and lived under the law in order to save us from the law and the world.  He also states that God sent The Holy spirit to reside within us, to show us the difference between sin and righteousness, to work our faith and to be our comforter. (Galatians 4:4-6)  To all who believed in Him, He gave the power to become the sons of God. (John 1:12) 

 

APPLICATION

Each believer can rightly be called “a child of God”.  We may be adopted, but we are still His children.  That status 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 first believed.  That also makes us heirs to the promise God made to Abraham. (Galatians 4:7) 

 

 

WE ARE THE SEED OF ABRAHAM

PROCLAMATION

“For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.  For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ … ye are all one in Christ Jesus.  And if ye be Christ’s, then ye are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”  Galatians 3:26-29 (KJV)

 

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 including if they thought they were now made perfect by the flesh. (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 Abraham. (Galatians 3:14 and 3:29)

 

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, ethnicity, gender, wealth, or social 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 that God made to Abraham. (Genesis 15:18, Genesis 17:9, Genesis 22:17, and Galatians 3:29)

 

WE LIVE BY FAITH IN CHRIST

PROCLAMATION

“For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.  I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me;  And the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.”  Galatians 2:19-20 (KJV)

 

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.  Other believers, including Barnabas, followed his lead.  After this, Paul states that he was 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. (Galatians 2

 

APPLICATION

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.  As believers, 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 then 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

PROCLAMATION

“As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”  Galatians 1:9 (KJV)

 

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, (Galatians 1:1-5) Paul states that any other gospel, other than the gospel of Jesus The 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 believe it.  Any other “gospel” is not really the gospel at all.  The Lord God will deal with all the false prophets in due time.  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 other angels who followed him. (Luke 10:18 and Revelation 12:9)  And Satan can transform himself into an angel of light in order to deceive men. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15)  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)

 

THE HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD IS WITHIN US

PROCLAMATION

“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.  Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?”  2 Corinthians 13:5 (KJV)

 

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.  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 actions, 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.  When we pray, we should ask God to 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.  It does not 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.  People should be able to see The Christ in us.

 

 

A THORN IN THE FLESH

PROCLAMATION

“And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me …. For this I besought The Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.  And He said unto me, ‘My grace is sufficient for thee; for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’  Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”  2 Corinthians 12:7-9 (KJV)

 

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 which 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 said that three times he asked The Lord God to remove it but the answer to his prayer was “no”.  God told Paul that His grace was sufficient to help him endure it, and that His power was made perfect in his weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)  Then Paul said that because of that he now delights in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties.  For when he is weak, then he is strong due to the power of God. (2 Corinthians 12:10)

 

APPLICATION

The Lord God hears our prayers. (1 Peter 3:12)  Sometimes we do not get what we ask for because His answer is “no”.  That could be because He has something better planned for us, or because we asked 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 tend to pray really hard when times are bad.  We need to acknowledge Him all of the time and in all things, good and bad. (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 through our weakness.  Sometimes we need a thon in our flesh to cause us to focus on Him.

 

 

BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS AND FALSE DOCTRINE

PROCLAMATION

“For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached … or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.”  2 Corinthians 11:4 (KJV)

“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.  And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.  Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”  2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (KJV)

 

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 tells the believers in Corinth that he will continue his attack on false teachers, and he says that 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)  Paul said if anyone come to them preaching a different gospel or doctrine is a false prophet. (2 Corinthians 11:4 and 11:13)  Paul said that Satan masqueraded as an angel of light, and his servants can masquerade as prophets. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15)  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 know it well enough 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.  All 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 deceive and 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.”  Just because it sounds good, or seems right, does not mean that it is the truth.  Also, we should beware of those who come glorifying themselves and not glorifying The Lord God.

 

BELIEVERS ARE AT WAR WITH THE WORLD

PROCLAMATION

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.  Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God …”  2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (KJV)

 

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)  Here he tells them that although they live in the world, they do not fight their battles like the world does. (2 Corinthians 10:3-4)  He admits to them that his letters are bolder than he is in person. (2 Corinthians 10:9-11)  He ends by boasting, within limits, on his work and the works of others spreading the gospel. (2 Corinthians 10:13-16)

 

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)  Because we are not of this world, we do not fight our battles like the world fights. (2 Corinthians 10:3-6)  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 attacks of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11-18)  We must always be on guard because the battle is not physical but psychological and spiritual.  The devil is after our minds and our hearts, 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, it belongs to God. (2 Chronicles 20:15)  We are just pawns in this war and in this game of life, used for His glory and purpose.  We need to make sure that we are ready for service in His army.  We already know that in this war we will be victorious. (1 Corinthians 15:57)

 

AS WE SOW SO SHALL WE ALSO REAP

PROCLAMATION

“But this I say, he which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.  Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver.”  2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (KJV)

 

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 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 9:6-9)  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 9:10-12)

 

APPLICATION

As believers, we are encouraged to give to, and to help, the less fortunate.  The Bible says we will be blessed for doing so. (Proverbs 22:9)  Here Paul quotes The Old Testament when he tells them, “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 of something, try giving others more of what it is that you want.  That applies to smiles, love, and money.  The Bible teaches us that 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 another 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 important points here.  First, we will reap the same thing that we sowed.  Secondly, we will 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 BECOME RICH

PROCLAMATION

“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”  2 Corinthians 8:9 (KJV)

 

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 were undergoing a severe trial, Paul was 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 asked 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. (2 Corinthians 8:9)  Paul encouraged them to match their willingness to help with their 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 from them. (2 Corinthians 8:22-24)

 

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 give and 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, put on human flesh, became poor, did nothing but good and was rejected, was crucified, He died, was buried, and rose from the dead for us to pay the debt for our sins.

 

 

LET US RID OURSELVES OF EVERYTHING THAT CONTAMINATES US

PROCLAMATION

“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”  2 Corinthians 7:1 (KJV)

“Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”  2 Corinthians 7:1 (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 by encouraging the believers to cleanse themselves for all sinfulness of mind and body because we have the promises of God.  The promises which Paul is referring to are: 1. that God will receive us if we obey Him; 2. that God will be a Father to us; and 3. that we will be His sons and daughters. (2 Corinthians 6:17-18)  Paul says that since we have these promises from God, we should purify our body and spirit of everything that contaminates us, out of reverence to Him.

 

APPLICATION

These promised blessings are conditional promises, they depend upon our obedience to God’s Holy Word.  We need to help each other obey Him.  We should encourage one another to engage in holiness of heart and life and not in the sinfulness of the flesh or evilness of spirit.  We need to lead a Christ-like life if we want God to treat us as His children.  We have already been cleansed by the blood of Christ, but we contaminate our heart and mind daily with our sinful thoughts, words, and actions.  That is why we need to pray, confess, and ask to be forgiven daily in order to be cleansed from our sins and unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)  We also need to turn from our sinful ways. (2 Chronicles 7:14)  We cannot clean up our heart, mind, or spirit, by ourselves.  Only God can do that for us. (Psalm 51:10) However, He will only do it if we pray and ask Him.  We need His help to walk this Christian walk.