"But He continued, 'You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world." John 8:23 (NIV)
The Apostle John, who referred to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved, recorded these words of Jesus as He explained to the Pharisees and the Jews in the crowd that He was going to leave, and go to a place where they could not find Him, and where they could not go. Jesus was referring to His death and ascension to heaven. He told them that they could not go with Him because they would die in their sins. (John 8:21) Jesus told them that He was not like them. He came from heaven, He was not of this world.
Jesus, The Christ, said that He was not of this world. (John 8:23) He also said that His kingdom was not of this world. (John 18:36) Because His spirit indwells us, (John 6:56, John 14:17, Romans 8:11, 2 Timothy 1:14, and 1 John 4:12-15), as believers, we are not of this world either. (John 15:19) We are in this world, but we are not of this world. We do not belong to the world, we belong to Christ. Therefore, we should not love the world, or worldly things, and the world will not love us. (1 John 2:15) We should not conform to the world. (Romans 12:2) We should love The Lord with all of our heart, mind, and soul; and we should expect that the world will hate us for doing so. (Deuteronomy 13:3 and John 15:18) We are not of this world.
Showing posts with label Christ-like. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christ-like. Show all posts
Friday, October 11, 2013
Saturday, September 14, 2013
The Meek Are Humble And Exercise Self Control
"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5 (NIV)
The Apostle Matthew recorded these words of Jesus as He taught His disciples, and the surrounding crowd, the beatitudes in His Sermon on The Mount. This verse, the third of the beatitudes, states that the believers who are meek are blessed, and they will inherit the earth.
People often mistake meekness for weakness. The meek are not weak, they are humble. They would rather suffer a wrong than do wrong, and therefore they enjoy God's favor. They have the ability and power to respond as most humans would respond when they have been wronged. However, they choose to act in a Christ-like manner and thereby please The Lord. The meek are exhibiting the fruit of The Holy Spirit and they are actually demonstrating supreme self-control through the power of The Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:23) They have chosen to submit themselves unto The Lord and to follow His directions. In keeping with The Word of God, they show a gentleness towards all men. (Titus 3:2) They can bear provocation without being upset by it. They can disagree with others without being disagreeable. The Lord will guide and teach the meek (Psalms 25:9) The meek enjoy the favor of God because they are like Christ. Jesus said that He was meek. (Matthew 11:29) These are the people who will inherit the new earth. The fact that the meek shall inherit the earth is not only stated here, but it was also stated by King David in the Psalms. (Psalms 37:11)
The Apostle Matthew recorded these words of Jesus as He taught His disciples, and the surrounding crowd, the beatitudes in His Sermon on The Mount. This verse, the third of the beatitudes, states that the believers who are meek are blessed, and they will inherit the earth.
People often mistake meekness for weakness. The meek are not weak, they are humble. They would rather suffer a wrong than do wrong, and therefore they enjoy God's favor. They have the ability and power to respond as most humans would respond when they have been wronged. However, they choose to act in a Christ-like manner and thereby please The Lord. The meek are exhibiting the fruit of The Holy Spirit and they are actually demonstrating supreme self-control through the power of The Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:23) They have chosen to submit themselves unto The Lord and to follow His directions. In keeping with The Word of God, they show a gentleness towards all men. (Titus 3:2) They can bear provocation without being upset by it. They can disagree with others without being disagreeable. The Lord will guide and teach the meek (Psalms 25:9) The meek enjoy the favor of God because they are like Christ. Jesus said that He was meek. (Matthew 11:29) These are the people who will inherit the new earth. The fact that the meek shall inherit the earth is not only stated here, but it was also stated by King David in the Psalms. (Psalms 37:11)
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Sanctification Is A Life Long Process
"Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God's elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout ... who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God The Father, through the sanctifying work of The Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ ..." 1 Peter 1:1-2 (NIV)
The Apostle Peter said, in the opening lines of a letter to the believers who were scattered throughout the Roman empire, that they were chosen by God, and sanctified by The Holy Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ.
Believers are sanctified by The Spirit of God, consecrated, set apart for the purpose and will of God. Sanctification is the process by which believers are purified and made ready to partake in the holiness of God. It begins with justification, when we accept Christ and our sins are forgiven, and it continues until glorification and we see Christ face to face. The Spirit of God is working within us from the moment we first believe, and continues to work within us for the rest of our life as we become more obedient to The Word of God and more like Christ. God gave us all the free will to choose to accept, or not accept, Jesus, The Christ, as Lord and Savior. We also make choices each day whether or not we will obey The Word of God. The more we study His Word, and submit ourselves to Him, the more Christ-like we become. As we grow in age, we should grow in the knowledge of God and in holiness. However, perfection will not be attained until we are glorified and see Christ face to face.
The Apostle Peter said, in the opening lines of a letter to the believers who were scattered throughout the Roman empire, that they were chosen by God, and sanctified by The Holy Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ.
Believers are sanctified by The Spirit of God, consecrated, set apart for the purpose and will of God. Sanctification is the process by which believers are purified and made ready to partake in the holiness of God. It begins with justification, when we accept Christ and our sins are forgiven, and it continues until glorification and we see Christ face to face. The Spirit of God is working within us from the moment we first believe, and continues to work within us for the rest of our life as we become more obedient to The Word of God and more like Christ. God gave us all the free will to choose to accept, or not accept, Jesus, The Christ, as Lord and Savior. We also make choices each day whether or not we will obey The Word of God. The more we study His Word, and submit ourselves to Him, the more Christ-like we become. As we grow in age, we should grow in the knowledge of God and in holiness. However, perfection will not be attained until we are glorified and see Christ face to face.
Monday, May 27, 2013
A Man's Heart Reflects The Man
"As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man." Proverbs 27:19 (NIV)
King Solomon provides this profound saying, just like still water shows the reflection of a man's face, so his heart reflects who the man really is.
That which is within us will eventually come out. Just as that which is within us will show forth in the fruit that we produce. (Matthew 7:17-18) Just as the words that we speak reflect the issues that are within our hearts. (Matthew 12:34 and Luke 6:45) For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. (Proverbs 23:7) It may be possible to put on an academy award winning performance and fool some of the people some of the time, but it is not possible to fool all of the people all of the time, and it is impossible to fool God any time. God knows our thoughts. (Psalms 94:11, 1 Corinthians 2:11, and 1 Corinthians 3:20) We may hide our feelings, thoughts, and intentions from others, but God sees the heart and He knows who we really are. (1 Samuel 16:7) We need to transform our reflection and renew our mind and heart. (Romans 12:1-2) We need to pray that God will create in us a clean pure heart and a right spirit. (Psalms 24:4-5 and 51:10) We want our reflection and our heart t be Christ-like.
King Solomon provides this profound saying, just like still water shows the reflection of a man's face, so his heart reflects who the man really is.
That which is within us will eventually come out. Just as that which is within us will show forth in the fruit that we produce. (Matthew 7:17-18) Just as the words that we speak reflect the issues that are within our hearts. (Matthew 12:34 and Luke 6:45) For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. (Proverbs 23:7) It may be possible to put on an academy award winning performance and fool some of the people some of the time, but it is not possible to fool all of the people all of the time, and it is impossible to fool God any time. God knows our thoughts. (Psalms 94:11, 1 Corinthians 2:11, and 1 Corinthians 3:20) We may hide our feelings, thoughts, and intentions from others, but God sees the heart and He knows who we really are. (1 Samuel 16:7) We need to transform our reflection and renew our mind and heart. (Romans 12:1-2) We need to pray that God will create in us a clean pure heart and a right spirit. (Psalms 24:4-5 and 51:10) We want our reflection and our heart t be Christ-like.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Have The Attitude Of Christ
"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with The Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus..." Philippians 2:1-5 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Philippi to encourage them to be Christ-like, and to be guided by The Holy Spirit, and demonstrate the love of God towards one another. He told them not to be selfish, but to think of, and to value others more than self, just as Christ did.
Those of us who have been encouraged by being in Christ, who have received comfort from His love, who have received the indwelling of The Holy Spirit, who have been shown the loving kindness and mercy of God, should have and display that same love towards one another. We should do nothing with selfish ambition or conceit, but we should humble ourselves, and place the interest of others before our own. We should think, act, and behave as Christ did and follow His example. To be Christian is to be "Christ-like." We cannot be perfect like He was and is, but we can strive for the perfect example which He set before us.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Philippi to encourage them to be Christ-like, and to be guided by The Holy Spirit, and demonstrate the love of God towards one another. He told them not to be selfish, but to think of, and to value others more than self, just as Christ did.
Those of us who have been encouraged by being in Christ, who have received comfort from His love, who have received the indwelling of The Holy Spirit, who have been shown the loving kindness and mercy of God, should have and display that same love towards one another. We should do nothing with selfish ambition or conceit, but we should humble ourselves, and place the interest of others before our own. We should think, act, and behave as Christ did and follow His example. To be Christian is to be "Christ-like." We cannot be perfect like He was and is, but we can strive for the perfect example which He set before us.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
The Purpose Of Life To Live To God's Glory
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)
In his letter to the believers in Corinth, the Apostle Paul told them that they should do everything that they do, eat, drink, or whatever, to the glory of God.
The non-believer will never really know or fully understand their purpose in life. Man was created for the purpose of fellowship with God. (1 Corinthians 5:5) Since the fall of man in the garden of Eden, the only way that we can maintain good fellowship with God now is to do that which is pleasing to Him, do things which give Him glory. (1 Peter 4:11) Everything that we do, whatever it is, should be done in such a way as to give God glory. (1 Corinthians 10:31) However, the first thing we must do is confess (Philippians 2:11) and believe. (Romans 10:9-10) As believers, because of our sinful human nature, it is difficult for us to maintain a good fellowship with God. Because we sin, we fall out of fellowship with God. We do not lose our relationship, we just mess up the fellowship. Therefore, we must continually confess our sins, ( 1 John 1:9), and we must pray and change our sinful behavior. (2 Chronicles 7:14) Then we will be able to fulfill our purpose and live our life to the glory of God.
In his letter to the believers in Corinth, the Apostle Paul told them that they should do everything that they do, eat, drink, or whatever, to the glory of God.
The non-believer will never really know or fully understand their purpose in life. Man was created for the purpose of fellowship with God. (1 Corinthians 5:5) Since the fall of man in the garden of Eden, the only way that we can maintain good fellowship with God now is to do that which is pleasing to Him, do things which give Him glory. (1 Peter 4:11) Everything that we do, whatever it is, should be done in such a way as to give God glory. (1 Corinthians 10:31) However, the first thing we must do is confess (Philippians 2:11) and believe. (Romans 10:9-10) As believers, because of our sinful human nature, it is difficult for us to maintain a good fellowship with God. Because we sin, we fall out of fellowship with God. We do not lose our relationship, we just mess up the fellowship. Therefore, we must continually confess our sins, ( 1 John 1:9), and we must pray and change our sinful behavior. (2 Chronicles 7:14) Then we will be able to fulfill our purpose and live our life to the glory of God.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Want Favor In The Sight Of The Lord?
"Keep My commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave ... your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man." Proverbs 3:1-4 (NIV)
King Solomon, the son of King David, said that by keeping God's commandments, a person will have a long life and prosperity. He also said that by demonstrating love and faithfulness, the part of us that comes from God, we will gain the favor of God and man.
By exercising good Christian behavior, we will be blessed with a long life and prosperity. By behaving in a Christ-like manner, we will gain favor in the sight of God. The best way to do that is to read and meditate on The Word of God and to live by what it says. We must not only be readers and hearers of The Word, but we must be doers of The Word also. (James1:22)
King Solomon, the son of King David, said that by keeping God's commandments, a person will have a long life and prosperity. He also said that by demonstrating love and faithfulness, the part of us that comes from God, we will gain the favor of God and man.
By exercising good Christian behavior, we will be blessed with a long life and prosperity. By behaving in a Christ-like manner, we will gain favor in the sight of God. The best way to do that is to read and meditate on The Word of God and to live by what it says. We must not only be readers and hearers of The Word, but we must be doers of The Word also. (James1:22)
Friday, November 30, 2012
Live Right And Keep Your Good Name In Good Shape
"A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold." Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)
King Solomon, the wisest man ever, states that having a good reputation is much more important than having wealth.
We should do all that we can to protect our good name and reputation. The best way to do that is to be obedient to The Word of God. Following His guidance and direction will keep us doing and saying the right thing. If we love our fellow man as we love ourselves, then we will always do right by him. (Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 19:19, Matthew 22:39, Mark 12:31, & Luke 10:27) The Bible teaches us to do unto others as we would have them to do unto us. (Matthew 7:12) Living our lives in such a manner will keep our good name and reputation in tact. One lost, a good name and reputation is very hard, if not impossible, to regain. A good name and reputation cannot be bought.
King Solomon, the wisest man ever, states that having a good reputation is much more important than having wealth.
We should do all that we can to protect our good name and reputation. The best way to do that is to be obedient to The Word of God. Following His guidance and direction will keep us doing and saying the right thing. If we love our fellow man as we love ourselves, then we will always do right by him. (Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 19:19, Matthew 22:39, Mark 12:31, & Luke 10:27) The Bible teaches us to do unto others as we would have them to do unto us. (Matthew 7:12) Living our lives in such a manner will keep our good name and reputation in tact. One lost, a good name and reputation is very hard, if not impossible, to regain. A good name and reputation cannot be bought.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
God's Love Is Perfected Within Us
"If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is The Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like Him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." 1 John 4:15-18 (NIV)
The Apostle John told the believers that they should love one another. He said that God dwells in them and they demonstrate this by showing their love for one another. They were to be God's examples to the world of Christian love, loving everyone and afraid of nothing.
When Christians say "I love you" what they mean is "I love you the way that God intended for us to love each other." The "old folks" used to say, "I love you in The Lord" to make sure that it was understood that nothing inappropriate was intended. As we endeavor to love one another as Christ loves us, our love is made perfect or complete. We cannot attain perfection while we yet live but we can become more Christ-like. We should not be afraid to show our love for Christ or our love for our fellow man. In fact, we should not be afraid of anything. The Bible says "fear not" sixty-three times, twelve of which are recorded in the gospels as the words of Jesus. With The Spirit of God within us and the love of of God being perfected within us, we should not fear any person, thing, or situation. God is omnipotent and He is in control. As long as we walk with Him, everything will turn out for our good. (Romans 8:28)
The Apostle John told the believers that they should love one another. He said that God dwells in them and they demonstrate this by showing their love for one another. They were to be God's examples to the world of Christian love, loving everyone and afraid of nothing.
When Christians say "I love you" what they mean is "I love you the way that God intended for us to love each other." The "old folks" used to say, "I love you in The Lord" to make sure that it was understood that nothing inappropriate was intended. As we endeavor to love one another as Christ loves us, our love is made perfect or complete. We cannot attain perfection while we yet live but we can become more Christ-like. We should not be afraid to show our love for Christ or our love for our fellow man. In fact, we should not be afraid of anything. The Bible says "fear not" sixty-three times, twelve of which are recorded in the gospels as the words of Jesus. With The Spirit of God within us and the love of of God being perfected within us, we should not fear any person, thing, or situation. God is omnipotent and He is in control. As long as we walk with Him, everything will turn out for our good. (Romans 8:28)
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Walking The Walk
"We know that we have come to know Him if we obey His commands. The man who says, 'I know Him,' but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone obeys His word, God's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in Him; Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did." 1 John 2:3-6 (NIV)
Although the particular audience was not identified, this general epistle written by the Apostle John, was a call to return to the fundamentals of their faith. His concern was with their obedience to God's commands.
It is easy to claim to be a Christian, especially today when there are no serious consequences beyond the effect on one's popularity. The challenge is to live like a Christian, not just saying that we are one. Avoiding or resisting the sinful temptations that we used to give in to. Holding our tongue instead of saying something hurtful. Demonstrating love for our fellow man when we are being shown something other than that. Sharing with others when we do not have very much ourselves. Being kind to someone even when we know that it is being mistaken for weakness. Telling the truth even when it makes us look bad when telling a lie would make us appear much better than actually we are. Speaking like our pastor is present when we are talking with our non-Christian friends. Taking the time, before we act or speak, to ask ourselves: "What would Christ do or say in this situation?" None of us is perfect, and we will never be, but we need to do a better job of walkng the Christian walk and not just talking the talk.
Although the particular audience was not identified, this general epistle written by the Apostle John, was a call to return to the fundamentals of their faith. His concern was with their obedience to God's commands.
It is easy to claim to be a Christian, especially today when there are no serious consequences beyond the effect on one's popularity. The challenge is to live like a Christian, not just saying that we are one. Avoiding or resisting the sinful temptations that we used to give in to. Holding our tongue instead of saying something hurtful. Demonstrating love for our fellow man when we are being shown something other than that. Sharing with others when we do not have very much ourselves. Being kind to someone even when we know that it is being mistaken for weakness. Telling the truth even when it makes us look bad when telling a lie would make us appear much better than actually we are. Speaking like our pastor is present when we are talking with our non-Christian friends. Taking the time, before we act or speak, to ask ourselves: "What would Christ do or say in this situation?" None of us is perfect, and we will never be, but we need to do a better job of walkng the Christian walk and not just talking the talk.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
While We Wait For The Blessed Hope
"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 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 glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good." Titus 2:11-14 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul is writing to Titus to give personal encouragement to the young pastor that he was to pass on to the leaders of the church, and to the people, regarding Christian living.
While we wait for the blessed hope, the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we are to live a Christ-like, godly lives in this present sinful age. We are to exercise self-control, walk upright, and deny ungodly worldly passions and pleasures. We should be eager to do that which is good and we should avoid that which is not good. Remember that we are in this world, but not of this world. Jesus is coming back for His Church, and we should live like we want to go with Him when He leaves the next time.
The Apostle Paul is writing to Titus to give personal encouragement to the young pastor that he was to pass on to the leaders of the church, and to the people, regarding Christian living.
While we wait for the blessed hope, the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we are to live a Christ-like, godly lives in this present sinful age. We are to exercise self-control, walk upright, and deny ungodly worldly passions and pleasures. We should be eager to do that which is good and we should avoid that which is not good. Remember that we are in this world, but not of this world. Jesus is coming back for His Church, and we should live like we want to go with Him when He leaves the next time.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
We Are Children Of God
"And now, dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming. If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of Him." 1 John 2:28-29 (NIV)
The Apostle John is encouraging the believers to keep the faith and conduct themselves in a Christ-like manner, so that when Christ returns they will have nothing to be ashamed of.
We need to understand that we are children of God and, as children of God, we need to behave like we belong to Him. We are in this world but not of this world. We are just travelling through here on our way to our heavenly home. Let us not get so caught up in things along the journey that we lose sight our destination.
The Apostle John is encouraging the believers to keep the faith and conduct themselves in a Christ-like manner, so that when Christ returns they will have nothing to be ashamed of.
We need to understand that we are children of God and, as children of God, we need to behave like we belong to Him. We are in this world but not of this world. We are just travelling through here on our way to our heavenly home. Let us not get so caught up in things along the journey that we lose sight our destination.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Don't Worry About Anything Pray About Everything
"Rejoice in The Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV)
In his letter to the Christians in Philippi, the Apostle Paul wrote these words to encourage them to strive to be Christ-like. Because their joy comes form The Lord, they should not worry about anything. They pray and give thanks, and ask God for what they want. Because they are believers, God will protect them and give them peace.
We need to understand that our joy comes from The Lord. We believe in Him and He blesses us. We pray and thank Him and ask for more blessings. Don't worry about anything, pray about everything. Because we belong to Him, He will protect us and provide for us.
In his letter to the Christians in Philippi, the Apostle Paul wrote these words to encourage them to strive to be Christ-like. Because their joy comes form The Lord, they should not worry about anything. They pray and give thanks, and ask God for what they want. Because they are believers, God will protect them and give them peace.
We need to understand that our joy comes from The Lord. We believe in Him and He blesses us. We pray and thank Him and ask for more blessings. Don't worry about anything, pray about everything. Because we belong to Him, He will protect us and provide for us.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Be Imitators Of God And Live A Christ-like Life
"Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote, in his letter to the Christians in Ephesus, regarding the purpose of the church and the standards of faithful Christian living. Here he states that they should live a life of love just as Jesus Christ did. They should imitate Christ and not imitate the sinful people of the world.
According to John MacArthur, the purpose of sanctification is growing in the likeness of The Lord while serving Him on earth. The Christian life is designed to reproduce godliness as modeled by Jesus Christ. We are to walk in love with all of God's people and be examples of good Christian behavior to a sinful world. As believers we are to imitate God's holiness in all of our conversation and conduct. We should avoid evil and we should do good, both are important aspects of Christian living.
The Apostle Paul wrote, in his letter to the Christians in Ephesus, regarding the purpose of the church and the standards of faithful Christian living. Here he states that they should live a life of love just as Jesus Christ did. They should imitate Christ and not imitate the sinful people of the world.
According to John MacArthur, the purpose of sanctification is growing in the likeness of The Lord while serving Him on earth. The Christian life is designed to reproduce godliness as modeled by Jesus Christ. We are to walk in love with all of God's people and be examples of good Christian behavior to a sinful world. As believers we are to imitate God's holiness in all of our conversation and conduct. We should avoid evil and we should do good, both are important aspects of Christian living.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Grace Filled Christian Conversation
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:5-6 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul encourages believers to be careful in the way that they act and speak so that they would not turn people off from Christianity.
Some people will make judgements about all Christians based upon what they see and hear from one or two Christians. We should speak with grace, spiritual & wholesome (Godly), fitting & sensitive (appropriate), purposeful & complimentary (helpful), kind & gentle (considerate), and truthful & thoughtful (Christ-like). We should make sure that our walk and our talk reflect good Christian behavior and conversation. We need to be like salt, we should be a purifying influence in a decaying world.
The Apostle Paul encourages believers to be careful in the way that they act and speak so that they would not turn people off from Christianity.
Some people will make judgements about all Christians based upon what they see and hear from one or two Christians. We should speak with grace, spiritual & wholesome (Godly), fitting & sensitive (appropriate), purposeful & complimentary (helpful), kind & gentle (considerate), and truthful & thoughtful (Christ-like). We should make sure that our walk and our talk reflect good Christian behavior and conversation. We need to be like salt, we should be a purifying influence in a decaying world.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
No Man Can Tame The Tongue We Need Help
"Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell ... no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water." James 3:5-12 (NIV)
In his teachings on Christian living and Godly behavior, James points out that the tongue, though it is small, is powerful and it is evil. The tongue can destroy the whole person. It cannot be tamed. That which is spoken reflects that which is inside of the person.
We cannot get both fresh water and salt water from the same spring and fruit that is produced reflects the nature of the plant on which it grows. Likewise, that which comes our of our mouth reflects that which in within us. Our conversation is a reflection of who we really are. We may pretend to be nice at times, but our true nature will soon reveal itself. We need to pray to God to change us, to guide our thoughts, talk, and walk. Only He can help us and save us from ourselves. We say that we want God in our lives, but we want Him in the backseat while we drive. What we should do is let Him drive, let Him guide, direct, and control our lives. Out of the mouth come issues of the heart. (Matthew 12:34; Matthew 15:18; & Luke 6:45) We need to get our heart cleaned and only God can do that.
In his teachings on Christian living and Godly behavior, James points out that the tongue, though it is small, is powerful and it is evil. The tongue can destroy the whole person. It cannot be tamed. That which is spoken reflects that which is inside of the person.
We cannot get both fresh water and salt water from the same spring and fruit that is produced reflects the nature of the plant on which it grows. Likewise, that which comes our of our mouth reflects that which in within us. Our conversation is a reflection of who we really are. We may pretend to be nice at times, but our true nature will soon reveal itself. We need to pray to God to change us, to guide our thoughts, talk, and walk. Only He can help us and save us from ourselves. We say that we want God in our lives, but we want Him in the backseat while we drive. What we should do is let Him drive, let Him guide, direct, and control our lives. Out of the mouth come issues of the heart. (Matthew 12:34; Matthew 15:18; & Luke 6:45) We need to get our heart cleaned and only God can do that.
Monday, April 16, 2012
The Greatest Commandments
"Love The Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 12:30-31 (NIV)
In response to a question regarding which was the greatest of the commandments, Jesus offered two new commandments, which taken together summarize the ten commandments.
Jesus basically restated Deuteronomy 10:12 with the first commandment. Then He expanded it for the second because you cannot truly love God and not love all God's people.
We to love God with every aspect of our being. All that we say, do, and think should please God. As hard as that is for us to do, the second one is even harder. We are to love all of God's people as we love ourselves. (If we really loved ourselves, we would take better care of ourselves physically and spiritually.) While none of us can do this, it represents the goal of perfection, that perfect love that each of us should strive to attain. This would make us truly Christ-like.
In response to a question regarding which was the greatest of the commandments, Jesus offered two new commandments, which taken together summarize the ten commandments.
Jesus basically restated Deuteronomy 10:12 with the first commandment. Then He expanded it for the second because you cannot truly love God and not love all God's people.
We to love God with every aspect of our being. All that we say, do, and think should please God. As hard as that is for us to do, the second one is even harder. We are to love all of God's people as we love ourselves. (If we really loved ourselves, we would take better care of ourselves physically and spiritually.) While none of us can do this, it represents the goal of perfection, that perfect love that each of us should strive to attain. This would make us truly Christ-like.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Rules For Holy Living
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things ... Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other ... clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." Colossians 3:2-14 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Colosse while he was in prison in Rome to warn them about heresy that threatened the Church, and to encourage them to exhibit good Christian conduct in their lives. They were to think heavenly thoughts, put aside their earthly nature, and act Christ-like.
We also must put off our sinful nature and put on "Christ-likeness". We must pray for God's help and work at being less sinful each day. Doing good is not hard, the hard part is avoiding sin. That requires our constant conscious effort and commitment. We know the difference between right and wrong, we just need to choose to do and say the right thing more often.
The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Colosse while he was in prison in Rome to warn them about heresy that threatened the Church, and to encourage them to exhibit good Christian conduct in their lives. They were to think heavenly thoughts, put aside their earthly nature, and act Christ-like.
We also must put off our sinful nature and put on "Christ-likeness". We must pray for God's help and work at being less sinful each day. Doing good is not hard, the hard part is avoiding sin. That requires our constant conscious effort and commitment. We know the difference between right and wrong, we just need to choose to do and say the right thing more often.
Monday, April 9, 2012
"You Should Do As I Have Done"
"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth ...
Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." John 13:15-17 (NIV)
Just before the passover feast, the last supper, and His betrayal by Judas, Jesus was with His disciples teaching them. His life and His actions were to be an example to them for them to follow. He was an example of loving humility. Their joy was not in knowing what He said and did, but in living and doing as He did.
Knowing The Word of God is not enough. We will be blessed if we are obedient to His Word and put it into practice in our lives. Some of our blessings are tied to our behavior. "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." James 2:26 (NIV) We must put our knowledge of God's Word into action and let our lives reflect it.
Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." John 13:15-17 (NIV)
Just before the passover feast, the last supper, and His betrayal by Judas, Jesus was with His disciples teaching them. His life and His actions were to be an example to them for them to follow. He was an example of loving humility. Their joy was not in knowing what He said and did, but in living and doing as He did.
Knowing The Word of God is not enough. We will be blessed if we are obedient to His Word and put it into practice in our lives. Some of our blessings are tied to our behavior. "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." James 2:26 (NIV) We must put our knowledge of God's Word into action and let our lives reflect it.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Be Careful Who You Imitate
"Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God." 3 John 1:11 (NIV)
We often dress, talk, act, and acquire things like those around us, or those that we see on the screen. Who and what we imitate says a lot about us and our beliefs. Who are we trying to impress? Be careful who you choose as a role model or as a hero.
Our actions speak louder about our beliefs than our words. When we imitate the sinful people of the world, our actions do not demonstrate our Christian faith. Let us endeavor to be more Christ-like in our behavior and our conversation. One day we will have to give an account for all that we thought, said, and did.
We often dress, talk, act, and acquire things like those around us, or those that we see on the screen. Who and what we imitate says a lot about us and our beliefs. Who are we trying to impress? Be careful who you choose as a role model or as a hero.
Our actions speak louder about our beliefs than our words. When we imitate the sinful people of the world, our actions do not demonstrate our Christian faith. Let us endeavor to be more Christ-like in our behavior and our conversation. One day we will have to give an account for all that we thought, said, and did.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)