My attitude has too often been,  as noted radio teacher J. Vernon McGee once said.  “You may disagree with me on this….it is your perogotive to be wrong.” He probably said that tongue in cheek.  Someone wiser, I don’t remember who, once said “There is no mistake so great as thinking you are always right.”  Wisdom I can quote, but have rarely heeded until too late.

This of course does not mean there is not absolute truth that is worth defending.  There is! And, we as believers in He that is The Truth and Whom reveals all Truth are charged with being apologist for Him/It. But our manner of defense does matter. 

Paul wrote his disciple Timothy and in a few short strokes of his pen outlined the foolishness of wrangling in words to the point of quarrels and being perceived as quarrelsome.

[2Timotthy 2:14-16, 22-26 NASB95] 14 Remind [them] of these things, and solemnly charge [them] in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless [and leads] to the ruin of the hearers. 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. 16 But avoid worldly [and] empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness,

 … 22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love [and] peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. 24 The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, 25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may come to their senses [and escape] from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.

In these few short verse the apostle warns his brother regarding quarrels and debate.

1) not to wrangle about words… saying it is useless and ruins any hearing. Therefore it is ineffective communication.

2) avoid worldly empty chatter… saying it leads to ungodliness instead of producing any good fruit.

3) refuse foolish and ignorant speculation…. saying they will produce quarrels.

4) a bond-servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome saying… kindness, patience, gentleness in sharing, teaching and correction is used of God to produce knowledge and understanding of truth and frees hearers from the snare of the devil.

Pretty strong instruction and admonishment from one who was extremely well educated and knew the arts of religious argument and persuasion. 

We most often hear this passage to Timothy quoted regarding being able to teach and handling the scriptures accurately. While I have no strong real strong issue with that. Let us note that the workman 1) is not proving himself right, nor approved to others – men, but proving himself approved to God. I take that to truly mean as one fit to be a vessel for revealing truth in His hands. And also note, 2) that the workman is accurately handling the word of truth, not specifically teaching the scriptures, but handling the word of truth.

The word for accurately handling her literally means to cut a straight path, a straight course,…to be direct, clear, straightforward.  The word for word here is logos which is generally understood as a written mandate or order, but is really simply what someone has said. The sayings or precepts of God in this case. And, the word for truth here is what is truly true, certain, reality. Free from falsehood, deceit, personal affection or interpretation.  So, let us make truth, that which is of Him and from Him, clear and straightforward.  

And, as indicated, the Lords bond-servant( read that as: approved workman used of Him in revealing truth to those snared by the evil one) must do so not looking to just win arguments, or just be right for the sake of being right alone and in and of that itself.  But, he must be focused on what God is doing and His interest: giving understanding that leads to repentance and knowledge and understanding of the truth of the fullness of His love in Christ and His eternal Purpose for man in Jesus. Winning a quarrel or an argument may be self satisfying, but it will not necessarily free one from the snare of untruth and the lie. The instruction here is clearly that doing that will require apologia/defense from, and based in, kindness, love, patience, gentleness in correction and teaching.

By the way, you may be thinking I am talking about sharing truth with unbelievers. Yes, but unfortunately, I am mostly speaking to myself/us about arguments and quarrels within our ranks, among brothers. Even in the context of 2 Timothy 2 is an argument with others regarding the resurrection with some who had gone astray.  We will need to handle the word of truth well, direct and straightforward, with kindness, gentleness, love and patience if we are to guard and keep our brothers or, if need be, used to deliver them unto repentance and leading to understanding the truth once again. 

Winning debate and argument are “fun” for some of us. But winning arguments will not bring release from the snare, and peace to hearts.  Our own hearts, or the hearts of those we perceive to be ensnared in various forms of, or doctrines of, that which is not truth.  May our desire be far from just winning an argument and “being right”,  but turned to being vessels of honor in His hands (workmen approved to God- ie: sanctified/set apart unto His service) to hold and reveal truth and His glory.  For the apostle also instructs Timothy in this passage:

[2Timothy 2:20-22 NASB95]  20 Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these [things,] he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. 

And…

22 Now flee from youthful lust and pursue righteousness, faith, love [and] peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

This final instruction in verse 22 is the heart of what I think Paul wanted to communicate to his charge, Timothy, and is what is on my heart to communicate here.

Forget and flee your own desire  (youthful or not in my/our case) to have or be lifted up or be right.  Instead… 

Pursue 

1)righteousness which is a gift of God in Christ Jesus,  

2) faith which is also a gift of God that comes from an intimate relationship with the LORD of heaven and earth and is initiated as He speaks to you, l

3)love and peace which are the bonds and fruit of active service to and koinonia/fellowship of others in relationships He purposes for us have and grow in as His Body, 

4)with those who call Him Lord, and call on Him as Lord with a pure heart which means not  seeking manipulate anything from Him or others, but simply drawing life from Him and and living corporately in Him.

Let us together, not just alone or as lone rangers,  pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace in Jesus our Lord. Our God is a God of relationships. He is rarely found in the quarrel He is often found in the peace.  In fact it is there he commands the blessing:

[Psalm 133:1-3 NASB95] 1 A Song of Ascents, of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious oil upon the head, Coming down upon the beard, [Even] Aaron’s beard, Coming down upon the edge of his robes. 3 It is like the dew of Hermon Coming down upon the mountains of Zion; For there the LORD commanded the blessing–life forever.

[Philippians 2:12-15 NASB95] 12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence,work out your salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure. 14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing; 15 sothat you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,

Paul, who had faced many trials and persecutions and troubles is writing this church at Philippi, a church also under persecution and encouraging them.  Much is made of the phrase “work out your salvation with fear and trembling”   That is so because it generally is applied to our eternal salvation and deliverance from sin.  

I submit that is not consistent with the scriptures indicating salvation is a gift by grace through faith, nor is it consistent with the context.  I believe Paul is speaking of their salvation from persecution, the ongoing jailing, and being burned as torches in Nero’s gardens. Paul was writing, himself, from house imprisonment chained to guards. Our eternal salvation is secure and requires no fear and trembling. But our current challenges and circumstances often do require us to move through, work out, our fears and anxieties in them. Paul’s instruction is to turn us toward God. A God who is at work in us, even through our experiences to display His nature and accomplish His will and His work for His good pleasure or purpose.  As he would say to the Romans (8:21) “If God is/be for us, Who is/can be against us?

Then the apostle gives instruction regarding behaviors that will result in them shining as
lights in the world even among a dark and perverse generation.

Peter shares the same kind of encouragement:

[1Peter 4:16-17, 19 NASB95] 16 but if [anyone suffers] as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For[it is] time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if [it] [begins] with us first, what [will be] the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? … 19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

The point of this reminder that God is at work in us, is to encourage us all to keep a Kingdom perspective. A viewpoint and paradigm that  there is a King, a Lord, with whom we have to do that is Sovereign God. He is in control, He is doing what is right even when we may think differently. Seeking first His Kingdom and His righteousness involves entrusting ourselves to Him, and comprehending that He is working in the world today, and much, if not most, of what He is doing, He is doing through you and me as the corporate expression of the Body of Christ in the earth. It is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure.

Last week I mentioned a proverb that indicates that the hearts of kings are like water channeled through His (God’s) fingers as He turns them wherever He wants them to go. ( [Proverbs 21:1 NASB95] 1 The king’s heart is [like] channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes. 

A Kingdom perspective involves recognizing a King is ruling in His domain. His place of dominion.  And, being in that domain, believers are under His authority, as citizens and ambassadors of the Kingdom of God. As such, we express the present reality of that Kingdom and our King, the Lord Jesus and who is one (echad/inseparable) with the Father/God.

[Colossians 2:6-10 NASB95]6 Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, [so] walk in Him, 7 having been firmly rooted [and now] being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, [and] overflowing with gratitude. 8 See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. 9 For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, 10 and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority; 

His Lordship over all things is established, for He is God, the fullness of God dwelling in Him in bodily form.   Capture that if you can. Imagine it, meditate on it, let it sink in.    Then consider that you have been made, by the power of rebirth in Him, complete. In Him you are without lacking, finished. And you may rest, as a part of His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23) in His complete and sovereign rule and authority. He has been given first as Head over His body, the church.

Obviously, there is some deep theology here.  And, just as obvious, is the reality of our daily experiences which often include challenges and dealing sometimes, if not often, with suffering and pain, and sometimes persecution, and even death. These “in the world” but “not of it” experiences may cause you/us to question the present reality of the Kingdom we are citizens of and ambassadors for. 

But the reality of our King and His Kingdom is nevertheless present.  Jesus saw it so, and we have need of comprehending it, and seeing ourselves as representatives of His Kingdom,  as He did in the face of judgment, pain, suffering, and persecution.

[John 18:36-37 NASB95] 36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of (literally – not derived from) this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.” 37 Therefore Pilate said to Him, “So You are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say [correctly] that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”.

Jesus spoke of His Kingdom as a reality calling it “My kingdom”  and explaining My Kingdom is not of this realm (literally – “not from here”).  Pilate takes from this that He is proclaiming Himself a king.  And without any hesitation or backing up Jesus says “You say correctly I am a king.”  Then emphasizes that He, in fact, was born for that purpose and came into the world to establish that truth. He is King, He is the Truth. He is King in the kingdom of truth. Note that everyone who is “of the truth” hears Him. 

In a side note here. In Daniel 4 and 5 the prophet is announcing a judgment on Nebuchadnezzar and 4 times mentions that  “the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind”, and that the judgment , being turned into a beast to graze the fields like a wild donkey, is to prove to him and all others this fact. 

[Daniel 4:17, 25 NASB95] 17 “This sentence is by the decree of the [angelic] watchers And the decision is a command of the holy ones, In order that the living may know That the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind, And bestows it on whom He wishes And sets over it the lowliest of men.” … 

25 that you be driven away from mankind and your dwelling place be with the beasts of the field, and you be given grass to eat like cattle and be drenched with the dew of heaven; and seven periods of time will pass over you, until you recognize that the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind and bestows it on whomever He wishes. [ see also Daniel 4:32 and 5:21 ] 

Jesus spoke of, and moved in, the present reality of the Kingdom and poured it out upon the earth even in His state of humility having taken on the form of a man.  And not just a man, but that of a bondservant serving us, and the eternal purpose of the Father, even unto the ignoble death of a criminal on the cross. (see Philippians 2:7-8)   He would also pray for us and speak of His disciples in terms of being in the world, but not of it.  And, of them making He and the Father, and the fullness of the Father’s love and truth, known in the world

[John 17:9-18 NASB95]9 “I ask on their behalf; I do not ask on behalf of the world, but of those whom You have given Me; for they are Yours; 10 and all things that are Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine; and I have been glorified in them. 11 “I am no longer in the world; and [yet] they themselves are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, [the name] which You have given Me, that they may be one even as We [are.] 12 “While I was with them, I was keeping them in Your name which You have given Me; and I guarded them and not one of them perished but the son of perdition, so that the Scripture would be fulfilled. 13 “But now I come to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves. 14 “I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil [one.] 16 “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17 “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth. 18 “As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. … 

Without great exposition here this so-called High Priestly Prayer of Jesus makes it clear we, in Him, have purpose in the world, in our experiences (even suffering, persecution, etc)  just as He did.  So, our experiences should find us looking for, seeking, His Kingdom and seeing it in our experiences rather than questioning its present reality.  May the Holy Spirit give us revelation of all that is ours, and all that is purposed through us, in Him.

[John 16:13-15 NASB95] 13 “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. 14 “He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose [it] to you. 15 “All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose [it] to you.

As we move through our daily lives, the joys and the challenges, may we comprehend that we are in Jesus, that we are where He is, and may we seek to co-labor with Him in what He is doing. And may we pray as He did that the world may see that we know Him, and that we have been sent by Him. May the world see us as ambassadors from another Kingdom. And, may we make the King’s name known,  and manifest the fullness of Him and the fullness of the Fathers love for Him, and His love for us in Hm. We have purpose in the world even if we are not of it  

[John 17:9-18, 24-26 NASB95]24 “Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. 25 “O righteous Father, although the world has not known You, yet I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me; 26 and I have made Your name known to them, and will make it known, so that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”

May we keep in mind..

It is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure.

And through our testimony in Jesus …

 the living may know That the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind

And that is just the point! If after all the writing, speaking, energy expended  (books, podcast, films, prophecy, voicing concern, and railing and ranting) on the issues of our time; have the warnings to the culture been heard? Has much been changed?

Many believers have acted as if the Eternal Purpose of God and the Kingdom is in jeopardy.  May I encourage you today, It Is Not!

Our God still has an eternal purpose for us, and for man, in the earth. May I suggest, as in all things and particularly the building and manifestation of the Kingdom, we can easily be distracted (by principalities and powers) to run to the wrong battle, fight the wrong fights, resulting in wasting time and resources.  We must remember, as Israel coming into the promised land had proven to them many times, that the battle is the LORD’s.  We get our orders from Him. If we battle on our own abilities, and from our understanding, we will be discouraged and defeated.  You see, we co-labor WITH Him in the building and defense of the Kingdom and restoring the temple. We don’t labor FOR HIM. To do that is to displace, replace, usurp Him.  We do not force Him to do anything by our labor or even our prayer based on our desire or sense of justice. Even if we most passionately and sincerely call on Him to do so.  He has a plan and a blueprint that is His and He will not divert to ours.

As we look at 250 years as the American nation, it is obvious God has favored us, and made us a great and powerful nation. Our history, despite some darker moments and positions that have been and continue to be worked on, is that of a glorious past and His hand upon us.

That being said, it is important that we believers, here in the USA, not get too proud of accomplishments by “our” nation, nor too discouraged by what many, if not most, see as its current decline. The future and destiny of our nation beyond 250 years, not to mention that of the Kingdom of God, is in God’s hands and is permanently secure there. Much, much, much more so than if it were our hands and control.  You see, it is not about us,…  Republicans or Democrats, who is President, Muslims and Jews, Israel or Ukraine, fossil fuel or green energy, etc.  They all matter in our present state, but they are not prime determining factors apart from being tools in His hands and for His purpose.  God uses all nations and rulers according to His eternal purpose and plan. In His omniscience He is not surprised. In His sovereignty He is in control. He uses nations and their leaders as He will. ( [Proverbs 21:1 NASB95] 1 The king’s heart is [like] channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes. ) And we, as the church, His (Jesus) body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23) are the prime determining factor on the face of the planet today. What He is doing, and will do, He will do through us as a primary tool.

As the church/believers in the midst of a great nation we have a responsibility as ambassadors of the Kingdom to represent our King and stay focused on His purposes, even as we are living in “our” earthly nation and surrounded by distraction.

[Philippians 3:20 NASB95] 20For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ;

I sometimes think the Lord chastises us, and the nation in particular, through various leaders and political situations hoping to bring our attention and hope back to Him. Our nation was founded on the principle of God given rights and liberty. We constructed, a bit after the declaration, a constitution and government that  severely limited government and protected individual rights. It has been a blessing to us among all nations on earth.  But, over the last 50 – 70 years (post WWII)  we have seen that liberty move more and more toward an occasion to the flesh, if you will.

Independence and rugged individualism, trusting our intellect and technologies and our wealth and money has led us far from the idea of dependence on the LORD/Jesus, and more into depending on ourselves.  As I indicated, I think we often leave the Father no choice but to break our willfulness, but not our spirit and commitment to liberty, through chastising us to bring us back to understanding His eternal purpose in us as the church and Kingdom…as well as our earthly nation. 

Self sufficiency and the pride of reaching Him in our own way results in Babylon and of needs must be humbled.  

[Genesis 11:4 NASB95] 4 They said, “Come, let us build for ourselves a city, and a tower whose top [will reach] into heaven, and let us make for ourselves a name, otherwise we will be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth.”

Many years ago the political mantra of one campaign was “Yes! We Can”.  It would have fit in well in Babylon as the people sought to reach heaven on their own terms and to make a name for themselves.  That attitude is far removed from Jesus’ instruction, which we as His body have charge to manifest,… apart from me you can do nothing!

[John 15:4-6 NASB95] 4 “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither [can] you unless you abide in Me. 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. 6 “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned.

It is obvious nothing really matters for us but abiding in, being in, Him.  

Trump, Newsom, Netanyahu, Putin, Zelenskyy all join a long line of others Pharoah, Caesar, Herod, Pilate who held position in nations, and in His hand, but were only like channels of water through His hand for His purpose, and held next to no effect on Jesus nor the Father’s eternal purpose in Him. 

We must not confuse the Kingdom of God and His eternal purpose with the temporal. Some believer’s make this mistake and give our nation, albeit a great nation, too much weight equating it with eternal purpose and even the Kingdom of God. Yes, He loves us and has used us, has bestowed favor upon us, and has blessed other nations and peoples through us. And, He has  blessed us above all nations in many ways.  But, we must remember His heart is for all His creation and man, and they will all one day be required to come before Him, and bow the knee before Jesus and confess that Jesus is LORD to the glory of the Father ( Philippians 2:11). Jesus alone is central to His eternal purpose.

As the church/ekklesia, manifesting the fullness of Christ Jesus and His Kingdom, as His body and as His peculiar people may we be the kind of salt and light that calls our nation, as we celebrate 250 years of Declaring our Independence and liberty, to dependence on and abiding in Jesus in God’s eternal purpose. Let us call all to Him and recognize Him as LORD now.

[1Peter 2:4-5, 9-10 NASB95] 4 And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by men, but is choice and precious in the sight of God, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

… 9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE , A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR [God’s] OWN POSSESSION (KJV- peculiar people), so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

Let us consider that our God will not share His glory with those captive in Babylon, trying to reach heaven/Him in their own way, through their own plans, building with bricks (instead of stone, God’s preferred building material), and mostly…. trying to make a name for themselves.  Let us call ourselves and others unto Him, laying down our idols of material wealth, technology, and more…  tearing down the high places where the culture has called our youth and others to sacrifice before idols of – sex -drugs -“my truth” – and more.  The end of worship of these idols of our own making on these high places is being deluded and disillusioned by gods of our on making.   

May we give an example of commitment to the one true King and His Kingdom in our love for Him and each other, and in trusting nothing but Him. Jesus.  In that, may we issue a call to radical repentance and  joining us in co-laboring WITH Him in building, manifesting, and establishing the first fruits of the Kingdom.  

You see, I think with all our (American) resources, God still has purpose in the church…  in America… for effecting the world He so loved that He gave Jesus. Let us turn away from Babylon –  self made religion and the making a name of ourselves through self made success… even in “our church/fellowship” and a god made in our likeness –  and turn to Him that has called us to Himself for an eternal purpose. Let us press on and and into that for which He laid hold of us.

[Philippians 3:12-14 NASB95] 12 Not that I have already obtained [it] or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of [it] yet; but one thing [I do:] forgetting what [lies] behind and reaching forward to what [lies] ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

May this be so for us, and for us as believers (the church/ekklesia)… and,  for our part in our nation as we look back at 250 years and having the liberty to press on to His call for what is yet ahead.

As I shared in a weekly gathering announcement recently, I have found in 50+ years serving in fellowships of all kinds, there are often two attitudes found in fellowships, as well as ministers that teach in them.  One is the “Family of God mentality”.  The second is the “Army of God mentality”.  One pushes forward a “people orientation” with exhortation to love and care and compassion.  The other pushes forward a “doctrine and purpose orientation” with a call to commitment, service, and mission beyond compassion.   Neither is necessarily wrong in a given moment and situation.   The truth is we need both lines of thinking in the ekklesia/church, the people of God. And, we probably should try to find the balance between being a part of the family of God and being a part of the army of God.

As we have looked at encouragement over a few posts.  I believe we can see Barnabas was a “Family of God” guy.  As we look at Paul here, I think we may find, at least in the beginning, he was an “Army of God” guy.  But, he made a transition to understanding the place of the “Family of God” mentality as well.  Again, we may do best in an understanding of being both the Family of God AND The Army of God.

For now, let’s consider Paul’s exhortation to the church at Thessalonica:

[1Thessalonians 2:5-12 NASB95] 5 For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed–God is witness– 6 nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, even though as apostles of Christ we might have asserted our authority. 7 But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing [mother] tenderly cares for her own children. 8 Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us. 9 For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, [how] working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and [so is] God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers; 11 just as you know how we [were] exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father [would] his own children, 12 so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

We find him speaking of gentleness as a nursing mother, having fond affection, of how dear they were to him, of giving his life to and for them… not just a message. And, He is encouraging, exhorting, and imploring them to walk with Jesus.   Could this be written by the same man who once was a persecutor of the church. And by one who would take such a hard line against John Mark with Barnabas, whom he had received such grace and support from, that in Acts 15 that they would split from one another and go in different directions?  

Remember, as we go forward, everyone needs, and I dare say wants, encouragement. And encouragement it is a primary reason for our getting together regularly, whether in fellowship gatherings, one on one, for dinner, or through social media.  We are equipped by the Holy Spirit, THE ENCOURGER/One called alongside to help.

In Acts 11:26 Barnabas went down to Tarsus to retrieve Paul and bring him to Antioch.  At Antioch, Paul brings Paul out in calling, training/discipling him as they served the church there for a year or so.  During that time Barnabas was giving opportunity for Paul to come into his calling for ministry to the Gentiles, and preparing him for, and supporting him in it.

[Acts13:2-3 NASB95] 2 While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Here we see the Holy Spirit has special purpose for Barnabas and Saul and wants them set apart and sent out to minister together. The Holy Spirit meant for them to travel together and minister to the Gentiles. Through about Acts 15 Barnabas apparently has the preeminent position as Luke references “Barnabas and Saul” several times. In acts 14 Barnabas is referred to a Zeus… the chief pagan God, and Paul as Hermes…the chief speaker for Zeus…. Paul was chief speaker/preacher/orator for Barnabas.   And in Acts 15 onward a shift takes place where reference becomes consistently “Saul or Paul and Barnabas”. Paul moving forward as Barnabas has given him support and encouragement in his calling and recognizing Paul’s powerful gifting to preach.

Also in Acts 15:36-39 as they were planning return visits to the fellowships they had established, they had a disagreement over Mark, a young disciple, and split from one another.

[Acts15:38-40 NASB95] 38 But Paul kept insisting that they should not take him (Mark) along who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. 39 And there occurred such a sharp disagreement that they separated from one another, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. 40 But Paul chose Silas and left, being committed by the brethren to the grace of the Lord.

It appears that Paul had learned very little from Barnabas. Paul held Mark’s failure in their first journey against him. Barnabas wanted to extend grace and bring him along (in more ways than one). Paul would not have it.  Paul would not act or do toward Mark the way Barnabas had done toward Saul in this situation.  But, I do believe Barnabas had left an imprint on Paul.

Paul had been an insensitive murderous zealot for the Jews and persecutor of the Church, holding the coats of those that stoned Stephen and getting papers of authority to track down believers and bring them to “justice” and stop the Jesus heresy.

Where Barnabas was people oriented. Paul was doctrine and purpose oriented. His early life as a zealot for Judaism had made him so, laying that doctrine foundation. He was doctrine oriented. He had had the scriptures/word placed in him and he believed in handling it, the law, accurately. He brought those foundations with him, as many of us do as believers. And, then over time we are changed.

This doctrine orientation served him well, and Barnabas supported him in it as Paul preaches boldly from the prophets in Acts 13 and 14. Paul (and Barnabas) is even persecuted for his preaching. Paul is a man of the word holding it up high and preaching Christ from it. He committed to it no matter the cost to himself or others.

Barnabas was family of God oriented. Paul was doctrine oriented initially valuing commitment beyond compassion with Mark.  But, Paul, like all of us, was in the process of becoming like Christ.   I think the split with Barnabas and Mark, may have made Paul do some serious thinking about Barnabas. That’s why in Acts 16 we see him take a chance on Timothy, a Greek, laying his reputation on the line by doing so. He wanted to bring this young disciple along, giving opportunity to learn and minister, nurture him in the faith, bring out his calling. I think he learned something by the split with Barnabas and had thought of his example. He is exemplifying the way Barnabas worked with him in the way he now treats this Greek convert//disciple Timothy.  (Side note: Paul and Mark must have reconciled because Paul would later write to bring Mark to him for he was profitable in the work  2Timothy 4:11)

[Acts 16:1-3 NASB95] 1 Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. And a disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek, 2 and he was well spoken of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium. 3 Paul wanted this man to go with him; and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those parts, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.

I can’t help but believe, Paul was impacted by Barnabas and made the transition to balancing doctrine and compassion.  You can’t write 1 Corinthians 13 without that compassion. Love is patient, kind, not jealous or arrogant, keeps no score of wrongs, bears, hopes, believes, and endures all things.  I wonder if he wasn’t thinking about Barnabas and Mark when he wrote those words.

Paul developed an ability to be an encourager. And, I think he saw unselfishness, as in Barnabas, as the foundation of encouragement.

In Acts 17 we read of a visit to Thessalonica that was not pleasant. Angry mobs and threats. At Thessalonica they had to leave under cover of darkness to Berea, and then be escorted under safety to Athens.  This brings us to the scripture referenced at the beginning of this article; 1^st Thessalonians 2: 5-12.  This passage at first glance does not appear to be saying much about encouragement. But it does, and particularly from the “family of god” perspective.

[1Thessalonian 2:7-12 NASB95] 7 But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing [mother] tenderly cares for her own children. 8 Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us. 9 For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, [how] working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and [so is] God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers; 11 just as you know how we [were] exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father [would] his own children, 12 so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

The underlined segments in verse 7 and 10-11 make it clear the “family of God” has moved into Paul’s heart. Verse 8 reveals a people orientation has become a focus as he commits his life to them… not just the gospel message. Compassion and commitment have found balance in pure motives in the face of even hardship in verse 9. And he references upright and blameless behavior…. Christlikeness if you will… or perhaps… Barnabas like behavior in verse 10.  And, in verse 11 “each one” indicates a one on one people orientation in their exhorting and encouragement. This is intimate and personal ministry to those in the “family”.

Paul had discovered the balance between doctrine and people orientation. The Army of God and The Family of God.  He understood people want to see Christianity (Christ) not just hear (about) it, Him or His message.

The practical application is that we must be encouragers… treating one another with gentleness and compassion. Proverbs 1 indicates gentleness diffuses anger.  I learned as a parent teaching my oldest girl to ride a bike, as a child at age 5, my impatience and impatient prodding did not bring her along. It encouraged her to give up. But, my loving standing alongside, picking up from falls, and positive encouragement yielded the fruit of balance and forward motion.

In encouragement we are required to be self-giving. Self-centeredness is central to the humanism and existentialism that pervades our culture and times, not Christianity. As Barnabas proves, where there is self-centeredness there can be no encouragement. 

The Golden rule would seem to make more sense if it were negatively stated “Do NOT do to others what you would NOT want done to you.” But Jesus turns that around, making sacrifice the measure of giving others what you would like to receive. It is a paradox. Selfish desire yielded to unselfish giving what you yourself want.  But what it does is puts the focus on actively giving of self and encouraging others in the way, and with that which, you would desire. As such you can’t just pay lip service to it, but actively and consciously give yourself to a focus on others… a people orientation.

Love is active. Romans 15 and Philippians 2

[Romans 15:1-2 NASB95] 1 Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not [just] please ourselves. 2 Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification.

 [Philippians2:1-4 NASB95] 1 Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, 2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not [merely] look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

Love in the gospel and in Christlikeness is active. Romans 15 and Philippians 2 are strong exhortation from Paul regarding love, edification and encouragement in the family of God.  Put others before yourself, edify and build up your neighbor, encourage one another, all in the precepts taught and lived out by Jesus.

While we can encourage and build up one another in active service. Let us not discount the word of encouragement or comfort.  By a word, message, e-mail, call, you can lift a brother up. (See Proverbs 12:25, 16:24, 15:4, 25:11, 1^st Thessalonians 4:18, and 5:1-11,)

We live in times when lawlessness is rampant. Media and the culture have encouraged us to embrace “if it feels good….Do it “ since the 60’s. 

Jesus spoke of a time when, as lawlessness increases, the love of many would grow cold ([Matthew 24:12 NASB95] 12 “Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold.”)   Sometimes I think rather than face the persecutions that Paul and first century believers faced, we Western culture believers now face a more subtle form of persecution. The adversary doesn’t need to kill us by stoning, but simply lead us into death by distraction. Our persecution, rendering us as ineffective as death, comes through enticement to spiritual laziness.

We are so distracted by everything in the world around us that we can’t give ourselves to ministry/works He has called us to and beforehand ordained that we should walk in, in Jesus. Even something, made so simple by our current technology, like encouragement. Distracted by TV, entertainment, sports, social media, etc. that we can’t give ourselves to one another. Remember Hebrews 3:13 where we began looking at encouragement said “encourage one another day after day …. so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”  Distraction creeps and sneaks in and deceives. Remember the only treasure you can lay up in heaven is people. Nothing else goes to the other side.

Acts 11 Barnabas began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord;

Acts 14 Barnabas and Paul were strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith,…

In Paul’s letter to Corinth he speaks of the importance and place of encouragement.  I will not go into detail fleshing out this passage, Perhaps another time.  But just know every place here you see the word “comfort”… it could have also been translated as “encouragement”.

[2Corinthians 1:3-7 NASB95] 3 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ. 6 But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effective in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer; 7 and our hope for you is firmly grounded, knowing that as you are sharers of our sufferings, so also you are [sharers] of our comfort.

Paul’s clear point is that he always sees Purpose in Problems. Whatever he has gone through has been so that he may encourage others who are likewise afflicted in problems. It’s an eternal and God centered perspective. One he saw in Jesus. Because that is exactly what Jesus did when He left the effluence of Glory that was His in the heavenlies in eternity past and took on the form or a man and became a servant even to the point of death (Philippians 2). 

Let us encourage one another, even as He encouraged,  and encourages us still!  Call, write, message, get together with… serve practically… one another.

RESURRECTION SUNDAY THIS WEEK.  HE IS RISEN…. RISEN INDEED!

[Matthew 28:1-8 NASB95] 1 Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first [day] of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. 2 And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. 3 And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. 4 The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. 6 “He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. 7 “Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.” 8 And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples.

Reposting with some edits and updates ,,,  for it is foundational to our faith:

Easter,  another traditional holiday on the calendar marking the reality of the historicity of Jesus.  Most calendars, however, mark it as Easter Sunday, a name that harkens to its roots as a substitute for pagan celebrations of Spring fertility in the goddess of fertility Ashtar/Ishtar.

But, for us that know Him,  we are reminded of Jesus and who He is, and was… our passover Lamb Who was slain and Whose blood has delivered us from sin. But, as much, or more, we are reminded and celebrate resurrection. We celebrate the Good News they ran to share,  from the passage above, that Jesus is now risen again from the dead.  He IS Risen! Risen Indeed!

In the Great Exchange “God made Him (Jesus) Who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him”  (2nd Corinthians 5:21)

But, as Paul made quite clear in his first letter to Corinth, that “exchange” would, and could, not have been complete outside of the resurrection.  [1Corinthians 15:13-14, 16-17 NASB95] “13 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; 14 and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain. … 16 For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised; 17 and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins.”

Make no mistake, the resurrection of Jesus is central to our  faith, for His victory over sin was to complete His victory over the final adversary, death. The two are inextricably linked. Sin had to be paid for, and rendered powerless, so victory could be established over death rendering it powerless as well.

[1Corinthians 15:55-57 NASB95] 55 “O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; 57 but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

[Romans 5:12,17,21 NASB95] 12 Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned– 

17 For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. … 

21 so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

[Romans 6:6-10 NASB95] 6 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with [Him,] in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; 7 for he who has died is freed from sin. 8 Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him. 10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.

[Romans 8:2 NASB95] 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.

[James 1:15 NASB95] 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.

[1Corinthians 15:24-26 NASB95] 24 then [comes] the end, when He hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be abolished is death.

It is for this reason Jesus could boldly proclaim that faith in Him, believing in Him as “the resurrection and the life “was prerequisite to being lifted out of judgement we are already under, and gaining eternal life.  Life forever!

[John 11:25-26 NASB95] 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?”

[John 3:16-18 NASB95] 16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. 17 “For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 “He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Yes, as Martha responded in John 11 when asked the questions above; He is the messiah and savior, even the son of God. (“Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world.”) The historicity all lines up with the prophets.  But He is so much more, and our faith is in Him risen as conquering King over death.  

Giving mental assent to the historicity of Jesus as a great teacher, or that He lived and even was crucified, or was even possibly the Jewish messiah, is not faith. As I shared last week, we have need of knowing Him, not just about Him. 

His resurrection makes Him Lord, King, Conqueror like none other. Suffering lamb slain in humility, is now Risen and Enthroned King with glory and dominion forever.

[Hebrews 2:9-11, 14-15 NASB95] 9 But we do see Him who was made for a little while lower than the angels, [namely,] Jesus, because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone. 10 For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to perfect the author of their salvation through sufferings. 11 For both He who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one [Father;] for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, … 14 Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.

[Philippians 2:8-11 NASB95] 8 Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

[Colossians 2:9-15 NASB95] 9 For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, 10 and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority; 11 and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; 12 having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. 13 When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, 14 having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 15 When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them through Him.

God disarmed powers and principalities through Jesus tasting death,…and He triumphed over them through the public display of Jesus’ resurrection conquering sin and death.  We were gloriously “raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him (Jesus) from the dead.”  We now manifest His glory and His victory to principalities and powers/rulers and authorities as His body, the church, the fullness of Him that fills all in all.

[Ephesians 3:10-12, 21 NASB95] 10 so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly [places.] 11 [This was] in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him. … 21to Him [be] the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

[Ephesians 1:19b-23 NASB95] 19b ….[These are] in accordance with the working of the strength of His might 20 which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly [places,] 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion,and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is His body,the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

HE IS ALIVE!  HE IS RISEN!  RISEN INDEED! And we have the honor and responsibility of having Him be exhibited as such through us to one another, the world around us, and to principalities and powers above us. 

Let us remember His sacrifice in our passover/communion. 

But, let us celebrate His resurrection as the Lamb of glory and King (Revelation 5:6-13).

​

​​

PALM SUNDAY THIS WEEK.  

This week before resurrection Sunday I am reminded of Jesus and my need to know Him not only as savior and redeemer and Lamb of God, but as LORD, King, God, source of Life. 

Let us note from the scriptures that large crowds were coming to see Him.  And by their proclamation, “BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, even the King of Israel”, it may be that they thought Him to be the Messiah.  However, it’s also possible they may have just thought Him to be a prophet/teacher, a healer of some kind, because the text makes it clear that many came because they had heard the testimony of the risen Lazarus, and wanted to see Lazarus as well.  In fact, enough attention was on Lazarus, the chief priest wanted him killed as well because many were believing in Jesus because of him.  Either way Jesus was pointing forward to the power of life, resurrection life, being in Him.   I must also say, it is possible that some, perhaps many, misunderstanding Who He was as Messiah Son of God, wanted to make a nationalistic or political king of Him. 

[John 12:9-18 NASB95] 9 The large crowd of the Jews then learned that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead. 10 But the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also; 11 because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and were believing in Jesus. 12 On the next day the large crowd who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13 took the branches of the palm trees and went out to meet Him, and [began] to shout, “Hosanna! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, even the King of Israel.” 14 Jesus, finding a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written, 15 “FEAR NOT, DAUGHTER OF ZION; BEHOLD, YOUR KING IS COMING, SEATED ON A DONKEY’S COLT.” 16 These things His disciples did not understand at the first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written of Him, and that they had done these things to Him. 17 So the people, who were with Him when He called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead, continued to testify [about Him.] 18 For this reason also the people went and met Him, because they heard that He had performed this sign.

The sad commentary here is that it is often easy to look past Jesus as the Christ, Messiah, Son of God, the Redeemer and Savior. Easy to simply seek Him based on information about Him, and for what we think  He can deliver to us only. And even more easy to fail to seek Him, to seek to know Him, personally and intimately as LORD! …  and as the source of LIFE, and give Him the preeminence as God, and that is His in God’s eternal purpose. 

You may not have realized it, but there is another palm waving celebration coming, and it comes out of those that have found Him as the center and giver of LIFE even in the midst of great tribulation…and recognize Him as Lamb on the throne, King and Lord/Shepherd. 

[Revelation 7:9-17 NASB95] 9 After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and [all] tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches [were] in their hands;10 and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” 11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and [around] the elders and the four living creatures; and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 saying, “Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, [be] to our God forever and ever. Amen.” 13 Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, “These who are clothed in the white robes, who are they, and where have they come from?” 14 I said to him, “My lord, you know.” And he said to me, “These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 “For this reason, they are before the throne of God; and they serve Him day and night in His temple; and He who sits on the throne will spread His tabernacle over them. 16 “They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun beat down on them, nor any heat; 17for the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and will guide them to springs of the water of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes.”

I am not sure I understand the full importance of this in John’s Revelation of Jesus. But I do know that I do not want to seek Him from only that which I may know about Him or for what He can do or provide for me.  

I desire to know Him and serve Him as Lamb (redeemer/savior) and LORD (King and God).  He who alone can shepherd me intimately, guiding me to springs of water of life, even out of great challenge or suffering. 

[Philippians 3:8-12 NASB95] 8 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, 9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from [the] Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which [comes] from God on the basis of faith, 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; 11 in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already obtained [it] or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

Very rich stuff here from Paul in the light of knowing Him as Lord, the power of His resurrection, the fellowship of His suffering, being conformed to His death to attain resurrection from death.  And, after salvation and deliverance from death, pressing on to be completely given to His purpose in making me His.  

Let us consider it as we celebrate His triumphant entry into the City of God, laying palm branches before Him and shouting “BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, even the King of Israel”,

{Side Note the feast of booths implemented the cutting of branches for celebrating deliverance from Egypt/the world.

[Leviticus 23:40-43 NASB95] 40 ‘Now on the first day you shall take for yourselves the foliage of beautiful trees, palm branches and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. 41 ‘You shall thus celebrate it [as] a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It [shall be] a perpetual statute throughout your generations; you shall celebrate it in the seventh month. 42 ‘You shall live in booths for seven days; all the native-born in Israel shall live in booths, 43 so that your generations may know that I had the sons of Israel live in booths when I brought them out from the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.'”

And the feast was restored  as they returned from Babylon celebrating deliverance from captivity in Babylon/man made religion when they were rebuilding Jerusalem.

[Nehemiah 8:14-18 NASB95] 14 They found written in the law how the LORD had commanded through Moses that the sons of Israel should live in booths during the feast of the seventh month. 15 So they proclaimed and circulated a proclamation in all their cities and in Jerusalem, saying, “Go out to the hills, and bring olive branches and wild olive branches, myrtle branches, palm branches and branches of [other] leafy trees, to make booths, as it is written.” 16 So the people went out and brought [them] and made booths for themselves, each on his roof, and in their courts and in the courts of the house of God, and in the square at the Water Gate and in the square at the Gate of Ephraim. 17 The entire assembly of those who had returned from the captivity made booths and lived in them. The sons of Israel had indeed not done so from the days of Joshua the son of Nun to that day. And there was great rejoicing. 18 He read from the book of the law of God daily, from the first day to the last day. And they celebrated the feast seven days, and on the eighth day [there was] a solemn assembly according to the ordinance.

Palm branches also became a sign of Hebrew nationalistic pride according to historians and books  (Maccabees) that indicate they were used in celebration at the rededication of the temple and celebrating independence, and are said to have been minted on some Judean coins as such. Chances are good that at the time of the Palm Sunday of Jesus entry, the people were seeing, and seeking, Jesus as more of a nationalistic and political entity type of deliverer, than as a spiritual Savior and Deliverer.  Misunderstanding His the Kingship/Lordship}

In finishing that admonishment and exhortation, I wrote “You may think you are not equipped to encourage others because you are not a preacher, teacher, or don’t know enough.  Let me encourage you. You are equipped. The Holy Spirit is the The Encourager.  Jesus promised He would send a Helper,  a “parakletos” – one called alongside to help, an advocate, a defending attorney. He is in you for this very work.” 

I’d like to pick up there with a  bit more on the equipping to encourage this week. And, then take a look at one of the best examples of an “encourager” (if you will) in the scriptures. Barnabas, the son of encouragement

CALLING  TO ENCOURAGEMENT

Ephesians 2:10 tells us we are all created as His (God’s) workmanship and have been purposed for good works in Christ.

[Ephesians 2:10 NASB95] 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

We, in fact have, in the eternal purpose of God, been saved with purpose in Christ to do good, His, works.  Don’t get confused. We are not saved BY those works (see vs 8-9), but we have been saved and created specifically FOR those works. And, again, don’t get confused.  These are not works we dream up to somehow appease or please an angry God. No, these are works that He, God, has prepared and called us to walk in, in His eternal purpose in Jesus. 

We are to be in Christ doing what He did, what He does, what He is doing. If we look at His ministry on earth, I think we can all agree He encouraged disciples. So, the chances are very good He is still doing so now, and intends to do that through us. 

Last week we touched on Hebrew 3:13 which shows us the primary shield we have against the deceitfulness of sin is encouragement from one another.

[Hebrews 3:13 NASB95] 13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is [still] called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

Do note that this is not simply a suggestion. It is a directive, a mandate.  And, it is to be consistent.

ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER! ….. DAY AFTER DAY AS LONG AS IT IS STILL CALLED TODAY. In other words, day after day after day after day …   …. …

Perhaps from these two verses we can see and understand we are called and purposed for encouragement.

EQUIPPING FOR ENCOURAGEMENT

[John 14:16-17 NASB95] 16 “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; 17 [that is] the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, [but] you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

As alluded to last week Jesus promised His disciples another Helper. And, this one will be with you forever. The word Helper here is Greekparakletos:  One called alongside to help, to aid. An advocate, one to plead your case before a judge, counsel for the defense.  In John 13 Jesus had told them He was going away, but not to worry because He would come back to them. But, in the meantime I am going to send ANOTHER helper. And this one will never leave you, but will be with you forever.   I think He uses the term another because He personally had been their parakletos  while with them, but was going to send this Helper to be with them by being IN them forever..

This Helper, He says, is the Spirit of truth. It is the Holy Spirit. He tells them they know Him because He abides with them.  This inference I believe is that in the same way He told them they have seen and know the Father in verse 7-8 of John 14, so have they also seen and known this Helper the Holy Spirit. The only difference coming is He will be in you and He will be with you forever. 

Again I make no pretense of being a Greek scholar. I do know This word parakletos is from a root word parakaleo which is most often translated ENCOURAGE (as it is in Hebrews 3:13). So this Helper is an/the “encourager” in fact, He is the source of all encouragement as our defender, and the One that leads us into all truth.  

The reason our encouragement is so critical is that our adversary is busy accusing us day and night. The deceitfulness of sin is consistent.   Let us not fear for the accuser is defeated, and conquered. But, let us not let our guard down in terms of encouraging and protecting one another as Hebrews 3:13 directs.  

[Revelation 12:10 NASB95] 10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, he who accuses them before our God day and night.

Here are a few scriptures that speak to us about the work or the Encourager/Helper that has been sent to us and that is abiding within us. The things He does, He also equips and enables us to do; the work of  encouraging one another. 

[John 14:26 NASB95] 26 “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.

Let us encourage by teaching and reminding one another consistently what Jesus has said and is saying. 

[John 15:26 NASB95] 26 “When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, [that is] the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me,

Let us encourage one another  consistently  testifying of Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, all His benefits and love for us as the Spirit of truth enables us to manifest His life as His body, the church, the fullness of Him. 

[John 16:13 NASB95] 13 “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.

Let us encourage one another consistently that Jesus is the truth, all truth, and the only truth is in Him. Let us encourage one another with what the Spirit speaks to us, reveals to us, and about the hope we have in what is to come.  

[John 16:7-8 NASB95] 7 “But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. 8 “And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment;

Let us encourage one another consistently that the Holy Spirit has come and is with us, and let Him show us what is wrong , what is right, and that Jesus has lifted us out of judgment. 

We have been equipped to encourage one another day after day as long as it is called today. 

THE SON OF ENCOURAGEMENT

I hear a lot in our times about restoring the church of the first century.  I’m not so sure we need a restoration of the church of that time, but I think a restoration of the love for one another, and commitment they seemed to have to one another and the kingdom, would be wonderful. 

Sometimes, I wonder if they didn’t labor under the misconception that the Lord’s bodily return was to be quick (see Acts 1:11), and so they holed up in Jerusalem, looking for His return rather than the opportunity to minister to the world around them.  We, for sure, can be inspired by their sense of community and their unity in sharing all things in common. But, let us not mistake economic equality for spiritual unity. Spiritual unity is not dependent on economic equality but rather holding all things in and before Him as we function under His Lordship. 

In Acts 4 we are introduced to some of this sense of community… and to Barnabas.

[Acts 4:32-37 NASB95] 32 And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one [of them] claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them. 33 And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all. 34 For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales 35 and lay them at the apostles’ feet, and they would be distributed to each as any had need. 36 Now Joseph, a Levite of Cyprian birth, who was also called Barnabas by the apostles (which translated means Son of Encouragement), 37 and who owned a tract of land, sold it and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

Our first introduction to Barnabas  shows him to be a man who was unselfish.  I think perhaps he had been given the name “Barnabas” before this gift was made, because Luke seems to indicate the Levite, Joseph” was called Barnabas/Son of Encouragement by the apostles making me think it is a handle he had earned before. 

So the first thing we can learn by his example is that encouragement, in all its forms, is founded in an unselfish attitude. One who would encourage others will sometimes, if not often, be required to give of themselves putting the interest and needs of others before themselves, and encouragement may come at a personal cost.

Secondarily, some would say an encourager will “encourage leadership” as in embracing “supporting the  hierarchy”. I would take issue with that, as I see Barnabas laying the gift it at the feet of the apostles, not to honor them or their “leading”, but rather as a practical matter of showing his interest in supporting , and his passion for, the church and ministering to those in need among the household of faith. Either way, it speaks of His passion for the church and unselfishly serving others.  He was seeking the Kingdom first, knowing an attitude toward possessions reveals an attitude of heart toward the Lord and His Kingdom. Seeking the Kingdom first knows ..It is all His and He will provide.   

We know He gave from proper motive in love and honesty.  Ask Annanias and Sapphira in Acts 5 how we know. 

In Acts 9 we find Saul (who will be Paul the apostle)  breathing murder against the church at Damascus with authority from Jerusalem. He is knocked off his feet by a flash of light and asked by Jesus why he is persecuting Him. He is gloriously converted and begins preaching Christ in the synagogues to the point the Jews are plotting to do him in, but he escapes to Jerusalem.  The homeboys at Jerusalem feared Saul, but now entered the son of encouragement, Barnabas.

[Act 9:26-28 NASB95] 26 When he came to Jerusalem, he was trying to associate with the disciples;but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles and described to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had talked to him, and how at Damascus he had spoken out boldly in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem, speaking out boldly in the name of the Lord.

In the midst of fear and thinking Saul was deceiving them we read Barnabas took hold of him/Saul. Barnabas defended Saul to the apostles. Barnabas supported Saul giving testimony of His meeting Jesus and Paul sharing boldly that Jesus is the Christ. 

At Acts 9:3 we read  31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.

Again by the example of Barnabas we learn that encouragement is people oriented. It is willing to take hold of people, to get to know them, give them a chance, to discover the truth regarding who they are in Christ and encourage their calling. It will meet those who are rejected with acceptance.  It is again rooted in unselfish counting of cost. Barnabas laid both his life (if Saul was deceiving them) and his reputation on the line to meet and embrace Saul. Encouragement is willing to believe people and that they can be radically changed by encountering Christ and to support them in those changes.  Barnabas did not let exceptions in others in the past dissuade him from taking the risk to love and support someone else, like Saul. 

We know Barnabas was consistent in this attribute of encouragement because we read in Acts 15:37-41 that he and  Paul (Saul) came to such a disagreement over John Mark’s failures that they parted company after many travels and much ministry together. Paul and Silas going one way, Barnabas and Mark another. Barnabas would not give up on Mark. Later in 2 Timothy 4:11 we see Paul has evidently learned from Barnabas’ example as well and He writes  bring Mark for he is useful to me for service.

Encouragement stays consistent even in the face of moral or practical failure.

(side note: Can’t prove it, but I believe Barnabas knew about bouncing back to calling from rejection, because I think he may well have been the Joseph considered for the open 12th disciple/apostle position when the lot fell to Matthias in Acts 1:23-26 [Act 1:23-26 NASB95] 23 So they put forward two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (who was also called Justus), and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two You have chosen 25 to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.)

From Acts 9 through 12 we consistently read “Barnabas and Paul” and from Acts 13 onward “Paul and Barnabas.”  I believe Barnabas  helped disciple, support, and move Paul forward in ministry and calling until a point that Paul took his place in ministry. Barnabas was a consistent encouragement to Paul in His calling in the gospel and particularly to the Gentiles.

In Acts 11 Jerusalem was receiving word of Gentiles coming to Christ at the report of Peter, and were skeptical. And when reports came Greeks were being converted at Antioch, the homeboys at Jerusalem sent their man Barnabas to once again check out if they were true conversions.

[Acts 11:20-26 NASB95] 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who came to Antioch and [began] speaking to the Greeks also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a large number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The news about them reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas off to Antioch. 23 Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and [began] to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain [true] to the Lord; 24 for he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord. 25 And he left for Tarsus to look for Saul; 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

I believe Jerusalem sent Barnabas because of their experience with him testing the conversion of Saul. They knew he could tell if the LORD was in it. More than that, they knew he would encourage the converts in the Lord to be faithful and true to he LORD. When Barnabas arrived and saw what the Lord was doing by grace, he REJOICED  and he ENCOURAGED THEM!  He encouraged them in his Christ likeness. 

Barnabas was qualified to recognize the grace and work of God on the lives of others! He was qualified to encourage them in serving and walking with Jesus.  What a report!!! “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit (the source of encouragement) and faith! And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord.” These were Gentiles or Hellenistic Jews!

And what did Barnabas do on top of that. Did he just bask in the glory of it? No! He chased down Paul, one he had encouraged and worked to disciple, and brought him along because he knew of Paul’s calling and passion for the Gentiles.  And he continued to work with, I think encouraging, Paul in his gifts and calling, for a year as they made disciples of,  and taught, CONSIDERABLE NUMBERS.  In fact it was there the saints were first given the derogatory moniker of  “little Christs” or “Christians”.

From the example of Barnabas may we also learn to be Sons of Encouragement…

1) Seeing Unselfishness as the basis and root of all encouragement.

2) Giving of ourselves sacrificially in finances and practical service as required of the Lord Jesus.

3) Encouraging those gifted to serve and equip others (not necessarily lead in hierarchical position ).

4) Encouraging out of concern for church, people, and a passion for the Kingdom of God first.

5) Being people and relationship oriented.

6) Taking a chance on supporting and encouraging those changed by Jesus.  Even at the cost of being vulnerable, our reputation, judgement or rejection.

7) Taking time to get to know people, establish relationships, and find out the truth about people in Christ.

8) Not letting a few “bad apple” experiences sour or dissuade us from trust of those changed by Christ.

9) Although it may cost us, giving anyway.

10) Being excited about what new things God is doing with people, and encouraging them in Christ.

11) Encouraging others in Christlikeness. Hopefully like we have displayed in our character in Him.

12) Supporting others gifts and calling, and giving opportunities for others to grow and be released in His purpose.

Encouragement takes commitment.  Commitment is a decision of the will to act in a certain way no matter what, because it is what God is asking of you. 

Build relationships. Build up the Church. Remember people are the only stuff of eternity we touch here, and the only “things” going to the other side. 

Invest deeply.  Make the calls, messages, e-mails, write the letters, do meals together, practically serve and give. Encourage one another day after day.

Webster’s dictionary defines it as: to inspire with courage and hope; to stimulate, foster and incite courage.

In our Western culture this necessary nutrient for our well being is sorely lacking. The body to be properly nourished distributes nutrients through the circulatory system. The circulatory system for the Body of Christ, the church, is fellowship/relationships in Jesus. So, it is a sad commentary to think of encouragement as lacking in the Body of Christ.   

Please understand I did not say that encouragement comes through teaching! Particularly not platform to spectator type instruction based in the transfer of data, knowledge, and information about the bible or even about God. NO! NO! It comes through the circulatory system of relationship and fellowship in Him, in His Body, sharing life in knowing Him.  

I think, sometimes, it is lacking in the Body of Christ because we don’t see others as “needy” for being encouraged. 

This stands, I suspect, grossly opposed to the early church where they had to encourage one another just to hang on. They had to encourage one another on an ongoing basis because they were persecuted and had problems. They had to encourage one another in order to just stand and hold on to their hope. They had to have those kinds of relationships with one another.

May I be so bold as to suggest we are blindly kidding ourselves if we do not see ourselves and others as needy regarding encouragement. We, the ekklesia, today still need ongoing encouragement to just stand for Him and hold on to our hope in Him, in the face of a darkening culture, existentialism, humanism, and more.

I taught, in a more traditional pastoral position back in 1982, that I was convinced the most important thing we could do to build up one another in the Body of Christ is encourage one another regularly and often. I still think this is true!  

If you want to see the Body of Christ come into the measure of the statue of the fullness of Christ Jesus, and If you want to see the body of Christ functioning in growing itself up in love (see Ephesians 4:13,15-16), If you believe God has purpose for that to happen, and for that to be a part of our passion for the ekklesia… Then, encouragement is the nutrient for that maturity and growth. And, it is delivered in the “one another” relationships and fellowship we have in Jesus. 

God has placed within each of us, in the makeup of man, a desire to be needed. We want to feel important and necessary to someone or something.  I believe the LORD has put that in us to cause, or drive, us to find purpose in Him.  We will not find that He/God needs us. Or, that we are necessary to Him. Because He is complete and sufficient in Himself. But that desire moves us to search out our origin and purpose. To one day ask: “What is it all about? Why am I here?”  Existential philosophy and Humanism will leave you empty. In fact, outside of finding life and purpose in Christ Jesus, all else will be empty.  But in Christ, as a believer and functioning member of His body, we not only find salvation from judgment; we find purpose in co-laboring with, or in Him, in the eternal purpose of God.  It is, in fact, why the gospel has been preached.

[1Peter 4:6-11 NASB95] 6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to [the will of] God. 7 The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober [spirit] for the purpose of prayer. 8 Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Be hospitable to one another without complaint. 10 As each one has received a [special] gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 Whoever speaks, [is to do so] as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves [is to do so] as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

The gospel has gone forward, preached to dead men – those dead in sin and judgment – that they might live in the Spirit (“according to”- Greek “kata” in, as, by, daily with)God. NOTE: the “one another” stewardship that is oulined – love, hospitality, service with gifts given you specifically by God, speaking of and for God, service with God enabled strength!  All that God may receive Glory through Jesus personally, and through us as His body. All these acts are ways that  are a part of ministering to/encouraging one another. And none are primarily done at or through traditional church meetings or platform-to-spectator teaching! 

With that said let us consider the place of encouragement.

[Hebrews 10:19-25 NASB95] 19 Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh, 21 and since [we have] a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled [clean] from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; 24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging [one another;] and all the more as you see the day drawing near.

This passage starts out with an overlooked word:  “SINCE” … because, because this is the reality… certain things are true and established.  With that in mind let’s discover what follows. 

We, believers, now have confidence by the blood of Jesus to enter the holy place. The place of God’s presence, His glory, His mercy, His provision – all the provision the ark symbolized –  the holy of holy is now open. Jesus has made a new and living pathway through the veil that once kept us out. As His flesh was pierced  the veil in the temple was torn.

And another Since.… because… we now have a great high priest, and intercessor, in Him/Jesus; Let us (we can)  draw near with full assurance of faith, hearts cleansed by the sprinkling of blood cleansing an evil conscience, and bodies washed with pure water to minister before God.  Let us (we can) hold our hope without fear or wavering.  

These things set up by Since… because this is true … are foundational. They are the foundation for our moving in relationship with our Holy God and IN Jesus in relationship to one another.   Since – We have been cleansed, We have a high priest, We have forgiveness and righteousness in Jesus and before God, the end result is four things:

1) Let us (we can) draw near

2) Let us (we can) hold fast the confession of hope

3) Let us (we can) consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds

4) Not forsaking ( we ought to be) getting together, but doing so for the specific purpose of encouraging one another

The outworking of encouragement is to work these four things into, and through, our relationships.

Through encouragement we can be aiding one another in developing a personal relationship with the LORD, drawing near to Him.  Speaking of His faithfulness, His love and mercy, His ways, even His just judgments and holiness, about who He is and knowing His nature and character. Let us speak to one another of Him the way that David and the psalmist did, speaking to their souls, moving our soul – mind, will, and emotion, toward Him in all circumstances. Battles, trials, and high times of intimate praise/worship.

Through encouragement we can build up one another in fundamental truths and our hope. Confessions regarding knowing that we are saved and have eternal life, the surety of His coming, the resurrection, communion, His purpose in the church, and more.

Through encouragement we can stimulate one another to love and good deeds.  The word stimulate here means provoke. Literally, if you will, “egg one another on”.  I picture Mohammed Ali … how he would provoke his opponent in the boxing ring to come after him…”Come on. I’m so pretty, and fast.. come on… bring it on! Just see if you can touch me!”   Only we’re saying …“Come on… love me, love that brother….serve that sister… help that one… speak to that situation. Your God in you is more than enough!”   A part of this is considering another’s trials, difficulties, and their weaknesses and strengths. Then, provoking active love to deal with one another where they/we are. Provoking active love for one another.  And, provoking practical service to one another in good works. 

Ephesians 2:10 indicates that we have been purposed for and called to good works in Christ.  Let us also encourage specific calling and gifting in others, like Jonathan to David. Stimulate one another to hold to what God has called them to and given them to do.

In verse 25… not forsaking assembling.  We generally take this to mean large once a week gatherings, so called “church meetings”.  I don’t think the early church met in large buildings with large parking lots (camel and donkey corrals) and only on the Lord’s day. They met house to house. They were often persecuted.   So, I believe the instruction here is more about groups on a smaller basis and more often. The writer was simply saying don’t stop getting together….small or large gatherings, or otherwise – one or two, persecuted or not. In fact, get together all the more, in the day of troubles. 

Christianity was never meant to be walked out alone.  We are a body, a family, a community.   We need one another, and we find our place and purpose, reason for being here, in fellowship and relationships in Him. 

Finally, There is safety and security in our encouragement of one another.

[Hebrews 3:12-13 NASB95] 12 Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God. 13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is [still] called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

Clearly encouragement is the defense and shield against unbelief and the deceitfulness of sin. We must stand together because we cannot stand alone, and were not intended to. 

Revelation 12 says the accuser of the brethren accuses them day and night. We live in a time when such inspiration to unbelief, and sin’s deceitfulness is as near as a cell phone, t.v., computer and any media screen. Let us encourage one another day after day. We often hear of prominent leaders falling, and “Christian” celebrities “deconstructing” their faith. 

Without much exposition … let me suggest you read Numbers 14 where the people wanted to turn back and were appointing leaders to take them back to Egypt after the spies returned from a look at the promised land.   Be Caleb, be Joshua. Encourage people to hope in God and go forward for the promise is good and near, and God is for us.  They may want to stone you for your confidence, but when you stand for Him…. the glory of the LORD may appear and be obvious to all.  

[Numbers 14:6-7, 9-10 NASB95] 6 Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, of those who had spied out the land, tore their clothes; 7 and they spoke to all the congregation of the sons of Israel, saying, “The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land. … 9 “Only do not rebel against the LORD; and do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them.” 10 But all the congregation said to stone them with stones. Then the glory of the LORD appeared in the tent of meeting to all the sons of Israel.

You may think you are not equipped to encourage others because you are not a preacher, teacher, or don’t know enough.  Let me encourage you. You are equipped. The Holy Spirit is the The Encourager.  Jesus promised He would send a Helper,  a “parakletos” – one called alongside to help, an advocate, a defending attorney. He is in you for this very work of encouragement. 

Again, encouragement is, perhaps IMHO,The Most Important thing we can do to build up the Body of Christ. For years, since the 80’s, I’ve suggested, sometimes strongly,  believers use the technology we have at hand – phone calls, letters, cards, visits, e-mail, text, visits,  breakfast-lunch-dinner-coffee meet ups- etc. as tools for encouragement. By far and in large part, without wanting  to condemn anyone, I’ve not seen much change.  I continue to do so even now, because I believe that in most fellowships, if each one were simply making 3 calls per week  to other believers (or in some way contacting or practically serving a couple of others), we could move most fellowships from meeting focused to relationship focused. How much time does a few calls or text take?  Our technology and transportation advances make this an easy thing.  Eventually, if the church is building itself up in love and the full stature of Christ, we can turn fellowships, and even cities, upside down, as we provoke the world to jealousy over how we love one another.

As I wrapped up last week I shared two pertinent scriptures.  One that makes it clear that the kingdom is a present reality and that it is “in your midst” or within you. And, a second that tells us to live seeking it and trusting in its present provision. 

[Luke 17:20-21 NASB]20 Now having been questioned by the Pharisees as to when the kingdom of God was coming, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; 21 nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or, ‘There it is!‘ For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst.”

The King James  version uses the term “within you” which may be a better literal translation as the word for within/in your midst according Strong’s is “entos”: 1)within, inside 2) within you i.e in your midst i 3)within you – i.e your soul.

[Luke 17:20-21 KJV] 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

This makes the present reality of the kingdom clear, but also makes it obvious that you, we believers – the church, will be the physical manifestation of the kingdom most will encounter, just as Jesus was when He walked the earth as He spoke these words.

The second scripture is very familiar and often quoted.

[Matthew 6:31-34 NASB95] 31 “Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ 32 “For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. 

Again, this seems to make it obvious that there is a present kingdom to be sought and in it is full provision for each day.

Having been a believer for 50 plus years, I’m still amazed at the numbers of believers that seem to think, as mentioned last week, the kingdom is all pie in the sky when we die.  But what is more interesting to me, as an observer of the church and believers, is the number who fail to realize that we manifest the Kingdom as we live and move in Christ Jesus as His body and under His Lordship. Or, perhaps even worse, seem to think that we must somehow pull the kingdom down from the heavenlies by our pious efforts at prayer, righteousness, or building something FOR God.  That is being captive in Babylon.  Babylon is always marked by man’s effort to reach God by self effort/works and to make a name for themselves, rather than simply love Him resulting in service/obedience to what He is saying and doing. Co-laboring with Him.

As we focus on developing a Kingdom paradigm based in seeking the King and His Kingdom, we first come to the place where the King and the Kingdom are a present reality. There is a King and He has an established domain/Kingdom.

The ekklesia is simply the current conduit for bringing the Kingdom to earth in Jesus. Heaven joins earth and is to invade it through us, the church, which is His (Jesus) body, the fullness of Him who fills the all in all.  Ephesians 1:22-23.  This conduit should be thought of perhaps a bit like Jacob’s ladder. But, instead of angels descending and ascending, it is like one of those chutes on the back of cement truck with the effluence of the kingdom being poured out on the earth to be spread by, and through, the likes of you and me.

When Jesus walked the earth he proclaimed: “The Kingdom is now, has come near you, is in your midst”. We, as the church, His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all, now give expression to the Kingdom in Him. We are the people, Body, Bride, Temple where the Kingdom finds expression.  We do not have to, nor are we, pulling heaven’s kingdom down by pleading prayer, or our piety, or our own initiatives. The Kingdom has been established in us by, and in, Him, and flows right through us as we are its conduit when we seek the King and the Kingdom rather than our own initiatives (Babylon), or the worlds ways and systems (Egypt), or seek to build something FOR God to  reach Him in our own works and our own inspiration and to make a name for ourselves more than Him (Babylon).

Too many believers today trust in, and get totally wrapped up in, today’s political constructs to establish the Kingdom of God in the earth. The truth is He has already established the Kingdom, and He has had no intention, and does not have now, nor will ever have, any intention of using the constructs of the world’s system to establish or manifest His own. 

The Kingdom will never be manifested or implemented through the political constructs of man or the world’s systems.  This does not mean the LORD cannot use them or move through them as tools for dealing with men and His people. The scriptures are replete with examples of His using evil Kings, Pharaohs, and Rome for His purposes.  But His Kingdom is His! These worldly political entities and constructs never replace it, nor do these establish it. Kingdom reign requires a commitment and allegiance to Jesus Lordship and nothing else. 

I have shared this before, but will again: 

This is a letter taken from The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis.   The Screwtape Letters, for those that haven’t read it is Lewis’ exposition of how men, including believers, are often duped and deceived into believing lies, and manifest nonsense, by the adversary.  Screwtape is a master demon writing advice to his younger nephew about how to attack men (“the patient” here, sometimes he refers to them “hairless bipeds”) in order to keep them rejecting the truth and love of God.​

It is an excellent reminder that we are of a different Kingdom and have been transferred to a different political reality and system. Yes, you should pray for and obey the government you are under in the U.S.A. But, keep in mind your allegiance is to another King and Kingdom where Jesus is on the throne. God is not using the political constructs of philosophies of man to establish His Kingdom on earth. He has, in fact, established the Kingdom in/within we that are submitted to the Lord Jesus. And, His intent is to overthrow, by love, every other dominion on the face of the planet in the hearts of men, until every knee bows and every tongue confesses Jesus is Lord…. just as you and I have.  As Lewis indicates, His Kingdom is focused on having you personally “advancing in character formation, and the thing you can control” under His Lordship. Rather than stirring yourself up to “angst, frustration, and general disdain toward the rest of the human race” that may disagree or stand against you.  His design is for you to stand in love, in the kind of “charity and peace” that provokes the world to jealousy wanting to be in the  Kingdom of the Son He loves, just as you are, and enjoying the provision found there. 

Unfortunately, too many Christian teachers, church expressions, and believers get tied up in, and very exercised over politics, particularly American politics.  I confess I often am myself. But, many go to the point of standing only AGAINST things, issues, principles and, worst of all, people. And then, they never give any indication to those they are against that they are standing FOR JESUS.  Or, that they are standing in Him/Jesus alone.  The indication is that we stand for the “other side”, “the issue”, “the principle”, etc.  That may be well and good for righteousness sake, but the indication should be  just as clear that we stand for Him and His Kingdom. We are ambassadors for His Kingdom. And, in His kingdom submission is gained by love; not by coercion, intimidation, anger or outburst, or violence.  If we only give indication of what or who we are against, rather than indicating we stand with and for Jesus and His Kingdom, love – the love of God – never has  opportunity to reveal its fullness in Him 

You may ask: “Well, does that mean, as a believer, I must be separated from all politics?”

Does this mean you can’t participate in your rights as a citizen of the United States, or whatever earthly entity you may come from.  No! Can you not be a Republican, Democrat, Libertarian or whatever? No!  You can exercise your rights and belong to whatever you may.  However your commitment to nation and party ends where they cross the Lordship of Jesus, and you must realize that compromise may be difficult. His Kingdom will often be at odds with the world’s systems.

It also often means to trust, or put your hope, in these entities over and above the Kingdom, is to reject trusting the King/Lord and seeking first the Kingdom. Our security is not found in the world’s kings and political parties or systems. Our security is in the authority of Jesus.

God never wanted His people to have any King or government but Him. 

[1Samuel 8:1-9 NASB] 1 And it came about when Samuel was old that he appointed his sons judges over Israel. 2 Now the name of his firstborn was Joel, and the name of his second, Abijah; [they] were judging in Beersheba. 3 His sons, however, did not walk in his ways, but turned aside after dishonest gain and took bribes and perverted justice. 4 Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah; 5 and they said to him, “Behold, you have grown old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king for us to judge us like all the nations.” 6 But the thing was displeasing in the sight of Samuel when they said, “Give us a king to judge us.” And Samuel prayed to the LORD. 7 The LORD said to Samuel, “Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them. 8 “Like all the deeds which they have done since the day that I brought them up from Egypt even to this day–in that they have forsaken Me and served other gods–so they are doing to you also. 9 “Now then, listen to their voice; however, you shall solemnly warn them and tell them of the procedure of the king who will reign over them.”

Right after this the LORD gives Samuel a warning, which he delivers to the people about how their sons will be forced to be soldiers of the king, how their daughters will be forced to labor for the king, and how they will be taxed heavily to serve the king and his purposes. Sound familiar?

Then the Lord tells Samuel to listen to the voice of the people, for they have not rejected Samuel but the LORD, and give them a King and directs him to Saul.   Saul and David both proved to be fairly decent kings, but from there on in Israel, Saul forward, the burden on the people became hard and heavy and, often, evil.  

You can seek THE KING and HIS KINGDOM in Jesus, or you can be ruled by other than He that is truly LORD.  To desire the politics or world’s systems to provide for and judge for you, or to trust in them,  to put your hope in them, can be to reject Him from being King/Lord over you. 

Most of us want what we want, and the truth is we want to be King of our life!  But the gospel of the Kingdom leads us to a place of crucifixion of that desire.

Those functioning in the gospel, seeking first the Kingdom and His righteousness, are grounded in and focused upon the LORDSHIP/authority of Jesus, not the ways, systems, and devices of the world. The LORD does not advance His Kingdom, in this age, by wielding power physically or politically, or by violence. So we cannot expect to advance or exhibit the Kingdom through the exhibition of physical or political power or resorting to violence.  The Kingdom advances, and is exhibited, by those who have no life or power of their own, but have a God given ability, under His authority, to lay their life down (and sometimes suffer as He did – see Philippians 2) in obedience to the Father and His purpose. Thereby they manifest the kingdom as they trust in the Lordship of Jesus whatever their circumstances, rather than trust in themselves and the world’s politics or power.

There is a King and there is a Kingdom! And, for this moment, the kingdom is being manifested and poured out through you as a conduit as The King has come near you as your LORD, and His kingdom is within you, even in your midst, by the Holy Spirit. 

Luke 17:20-21 KJV] 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

The scripture seems to make the present reality of the kingdom obvious to me.   What is a kingdom? It’s the place where a certain king exercises dominion, rule and authority; a domain. I will simply define and outline it here as: a place where that certain kings dominion is visible, present, and recognized as a now reality among His subjects, and His authority as King/Lord is not questioned or challenged. 

[Colossians  1:13 NASB] 13 For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son,

This scripture makes it clear that there has been a change of domain and dominion/authority for those that believe! Not that there will be, someday, in the distant future, or on the other side. We have been transferred (past tense/has happened) from the domain/dominion of darkness to the kingdom of God’s beloved son.  What is the difference between the “domain of darkness” and the “kingdom of the beloved Son”?  

We were rescued from the exousia (Greek- authority/legal power) of darkness.  Because of that rescue, it has no authority or power to rule us, as we have been transferred (literally: transposed, transferred, removed from one place to another, changed place or situation) from it to something altogether different! Namely the kingdom of the Son (Jesus) He (God the Father) loves. The kingdom of His beloved son.  Kingdom here is not just another use of exousia but the basileia (Greek: royal power, kingship, dominion, rule, right or authority to rule as king, territory subject to the rule of a king). So we were not simply transferred from the authority of darkness. We were moved literally to a different realm, domain, territory…… a Kingdom!  The Kingdom of the Son He loves! 

Were we called, saved, transferred to make a better world or to manifest a kingdom?

We should understand  that this rescue/ salvation involves a transfer that involves recognizing Jesus is King, not merely a savior.  Yes! we were rescued/saved, if you will,  by the Father.   But that salvation and rescue was NOT just from something; the domain of darkness. But a salvation unto something; a transfer to the kingdom of the Son. There is a King in the Kingdom (not just a savior), an Emperor over the Empire. He is to be in charge and is technically the Emperor of an Empire. So the question is one of loyalty and service, to Whom is it due. 

In John 3 Jesus has a very interesting conversation with Nicodemus. 

[John 3:3-7 NASB95] 3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born, can he?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 “Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’

Jesus makes it clear here  there is a change needed if you are to see (vs. 3 – comprehend, understand, see with your eyes, perceive with the mind, know, experience and be acquainted with by experience) the kingdom of God.  And enter (vs. 5 – go in, come in, take possession). Again this is not referenced as pie in the sky when we die. Even Nicodemus’s question seeks a now/present explanation. The kingdom exists now!   Further on in this conversation Jesus would focus on present realities and His personally bringing things before unseen, and of heaven, to earth. Invading earth with the heavenly. (see vs.10-13 

The kingdom exists now! So, in our relationship to Jesus, it is the Kingdom first, and church second.  Jesus is building a Kingdom-shaped ekklesia/church, not a church-shaped kingdom(s).  

There is a framework/structure that binds all citizens of the Kingdom politically. Christians are first citizens of the Kingdom of God, then members of local churches, and lastly citizens of political nation-states, or part of tribes and clans

Many Christians have been taught the theory that Jesus is their King.
 But, just not now, not here, not really, not in present reality,  and not in any way that counts today. Their practical lives and actions document their faith, that the rulership of Christ, His being King and Lord is irrelevant to them. His being savior matters some, but Lord – not so much.

It is a Christianity where in reality, not the King is in exile, but the people themselves are in exile; in other words: a new Babylonian captivity.

A citizen in God’s Kingdom is someone who is saved by grace and then does the will of the Father. Listening to Him and co-laboring with Him in Jesus, doing works He created us for in Christ beforehand (in eternity past). See Ephesians 2:10.      

Some of us live as illegal aliens.  We are in the Kingdom, but doing the will of the King is not a real concern.

The greatest deception of traditional Christendom was that it became an accepted fashion to call upon Jesus simply for personal salvation, but to deny him the right to be actual King/Lord. This has created a huge credibility gap in the eyes of the world, who look at Christians as basically hypocritical, not living what they preach.

God is inviting all those who have “called upon Jesus as Lord to be their savior” to complete the second half of that conversion: to call Jesus also their Lord and Emperor, to give up any contest or rebellion, and to become legal and fully functioning royal citizens of his empire and an integral part of its mission.  Many have accepted His rescue, but  have yet to realize the second part of the rescue of Colossians 1:13 was a transfer into the Kingdom under His King Jesus. This requires us to grasp that His Kingdom is not a democracy; in God’s Kingdom it is He who rules.

Wherever this happens, the Body of Christ suddenly has a Head again – and starts to function as it should. Only there is no limit for such a church as an expression of His body.

The Kingdom of God- is not at all just some future dream people encounter after entering heaven; it is the realm of the uncontested rule of God. The domain within which God is voluntarily obeyed. Nor from coercion and fear, but from love.  One you comprehend the fullness of His love in Christ, you can’t help but bow the knee to Jesus as Lord and King.  

[Luke 17:20-21 NASB]20 Now having been questioned by the Pharisees as to when the kingdom of God was coming, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; 21 nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or, ‘There it is!‘ For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst.”

Jesus did not come to bring a “Christian” sharia through the constructs of men or what some term now Christian nationalism.  But, he did bring the Kingdom!  Selah.

It is not a global transformation of this world, into a paradise.

One of the most devastating Kingdom-teachings widespread among many Christians today is the battle cry to create a better world in the name of God. 

At the core of this misconception lies the human desire to establish the rule of God over believers and unbelievers alike, to implement a sort of Christian Sharia (enforced Islamic law) in nation-states.  Jesus never got involved in the social, political, legal, financial and health-related problems of this world, particularly not through government. Instead, He brought, demonstrated, lived and preached a radical alternative: how life looks under the reign of God.

Those that confuse the Kingdom of God with a strategy for creating a better world fight a hopeless cause. They place themselves at the wrong frontier and waste their precious time, energy and money.  Look around: the bulk of Christian finances go into creating a better world.

Jesus has not instructed us to feed all the hungry of this world, to heal all its sicknesses, to get rid of global poverty and make personally sure that everyone on the planet has a decent schooling, safe drinking water and medical health care. These are things that are dictated by our own fallen, and wounded, understanding of justice, but not by God. These are classical issues and tasks of governments, the UN, or even, Bill Gates and other humanistic philanthropists of this world. 

Jesus was, unlike most humans, not driven by need, or serving need,  but driven by God (John 5:19) serving Him. Jesus went literally with His head raised – eyes locked with his Father in heaven – through a society full of screaming needs and strangled by sin; but he did not solve all the social problems of Palestine, did not healall the sick in the Middle East, did not dig a single well, build a school, hospital or kindergarten. He did not  speak at a managers luncheon in a wellness Spa, encouraging others to have more faith for more business. He did what He saw the Father doing in the moment in a very real sense.

Jesus did not come 
to solve our every problem, but to liberate us, that we might in turn share His liberation and kingdom with others, and model life under the loving rulership of Him in His kingdom.. That is the logic of the cross: what looks like stupidity in the eyes of the world is, in fact, spiritual wisdom

Jesus knew that his followers, having their goals confused, would forever become busy solving the never-ending problems of the world, serving the never-ending needs.,  And, being so distracted  would not have time for their original mission: to expand the rule of God over as many people and people groups as possible. That’s why His instruction was  the“Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all things will be added as needed. And sharing that, modeling that, and encouraging people to be rescued by Him… and  live in the transfer under His Lordship is the best we can do for them in His love. 

[Matthew 6:31-34 NASB95] 31 “Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ 32 “For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Everything starts and ends with the central truth of the living God that Jesus is Lord. There is a King in the Kingdom!