1 Peter 3-5 Passport to Glory

TMS 2 Corinthians 4:5 Talking About Jesus

2 Cor 4:4 “the god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelieving, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, Who is the image of God, should shine on them.

5 For we do not preach ourselves,

but Christ Jesus the Lord,

and ourselves your bondservants

for Jesus' sake.

6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Observations: 4:5 We should serve the needs of others for the sake of Jesus. We should talk about Him, rather than ourselves, except to authenticate the message. If we call Him our Lord, then we should live like His servants, and serve others in His name. The surrounding context (see post on 2Cor 4-5 details the motivation for such self-denying behavior, namely the reception of the glory of God.

Application: When we talk about our Lord, we should live like His servants.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, may I serve and love others as You have loved and served me, so I may be effective in sharing Your truth with them. Amen.

1 Peter 3-5 There is a lot to digest and apply in these chapters for those who seek to be recipients of the glory of God. From submissive and humble relationships to suffering and spiritual warfare, there are many ways we can be tripped up on our path to glory. Peter gives some commands and instruction to help us get to where God wants us to be. For those of you who want to take your Bible Study skills to the level of being able to trace an author's argument through a book, there are some 10MinuteBible.com YouTubes on these chapters. I started using video to answer questions I would get from folks in our church who were doing exegetical Bible Study, beginning with chapter 3 of 1 Peter, so that one starts out fairly slowly. You might want to view the video Fun with Dick and Jane first to understand the method. The videos contain information not in the post, and one which traces the argument through the first half of the book to understand the Noah and baptism section in 3:20-21. Whatever you do, don't skimp on mastering 1Peter; it is both a intensely practical book, and immensely important theologically. It is your passport to glory.

1 Peter 3 Sanctification for Glorification

3:1 In the same way, wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; so that, even if any don’t obey the Word, they may be won by the behavior of their wives without a word; 2 seeing your pure behavior in fear/reverence. 3 Let your beauty be not just the outward adorning of braiding the hair, and of wearing jewels of gold, or of putting on fine clothing; 4 but in the hidden person of the heart, in the incorruptible adornment of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God very precious. 5 For this is how the holy women before, who hoped in God also adorned themselves, being in subjection to their own husbands: 6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose children you now are, if you do well, and are not put in fear by any terror. 7 You husbands, in the same way, live with your wives according to knowledge, giving honor to the woman, as to the weaker vessel, as being also joint heirs of the grace of life; that your prayers may not be hindered.

8 Finally, be all like-minded, compassionate, loving as brothers, tenderhearted, courteous, 9 not rendering evil for evil, or insult for insult; but instead blessing; knowing that to this were you called, that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For, "He who would love life, and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. 11 Let him turn away from evil, and do good. Let him seek peace, and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears open to their prayer; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

13 Now who is he who will harm you, if you become imitators of that which is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. "Don’t fear what they fear, neither be troubled." 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, with humility and fear/respect: 16 having/holding a good conscience; that, while you are spoken against as evildoers, they may be disappointed who curse your good way of life in Christ. 17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, that you suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

18 Because Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring you to God; being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; 19 in which he also went and preached to the spirits in prison, 20 who before were disobedient, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, while the ark was being built. In it, few, that is, eight souls, were saved through/by (dia) water.

21 This is a symbol of baptism, which now saves you—not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the pledge/inquiry of a good conscience toward God, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, angels and authorities and powers being made subject to him.

Observations: 3:1-7 With the same trust in the God who judges righteously and rewards those who suffer for doing good, a wife should submit to (line up under the God-given authority of) her husband. Even if the guy is a spiritual dolt stumbling in darkness, he can be won to the light by the radiant behavior of his wife, without a nag, whine, or word. The word for “fear” is the same as that in 1:17; 2:18; 3:14, and 15, and is probably a reference to fear of God, rather than of man (which yields the respect translation). A wise woman would not find herself in the situation, of having to win her husband to obedience, being careful to seek God's will in a mate, and only developing a relationship with someone they would be willing to follow (see Prince Charming on truthbase.net). A woman's adornment should not be merely (appropriately added by translators) external, but priority should be given to the inner radiance which outshines any perishable externals, and is also very attractive to God (and godly guys). This is how holy women adorned themselves, with a gentle/meek and tranquil/peaceable spirit vis-a-vis their husbands. The model is Sarah submitting to Abraham, probably in Genesis 20 where she put herself in danger to protect Abraham, carrying out his plan to say she was his sister, a half-truth (although the only time she specifically called him “lord” was Gen 18:12). NT believing women are her “children,” sharing in her blessings, by following her example, doing what is good, and not fearing the consequences, since God will take care of them.

Husbands are not the “lords of their castle,” since only Jesus is Lord, but the husband has the responsibility to take the lead in following the Lord. In a similar way, doing what is good, and trusting that God is watching, husbands need to live with their wives in an understanding manner, giving honor to them as the “weaker” (without power) vessel. This is not a reference to physical or emotional strength, but in the context to the “subordinate” position God has assigned to the wife. Therefore the husband must “honor” her by seeking her input and preferences, and then do what is in her best interest (regardless of whether he or she likes it). Paul expressed this as husbands loving their wife as Christ loved the church and sacrificed Himself for her highest benefit (see Eph 5:25 comments and the Family Life Resources on Truthbase.net). God might assign a temporary functionality that is subordinate (see Submission: The S-word if you haven't already done so), but He gives an eternal status that is total equality, joint heirs/inheritors of the grace of life/dominion (which Peter told them to fix their hope on in 1:13). If a husband fails to heed God's command to give honor to his wife, his prayers will be hindered (literally “cut off” as in having one's heavenly hotline disconnected).

3:8-12 All believers should live in a harmonious manner with each other in the fear of God (Eph 5:21) knowing that they were called to inherit a blessing, and bad behavior forfeits one's blessing. Peter quotes Psalm 34:12-16 to make the point that blessing (life, glory, dominion) requires being blessable, in behavior and speech, because the Lord listens to the righteous (those who are careful to do what's right in His sight), and opposes those who do what displeases Him. People who are ignorant of this reality don't have vibrant prayer lives.

3:13-17 If we are doing what is good, we shouldn't be harmed, but sometimes we do have to suffer for doing what is right. In such cases of smart suffering (persecution, martyrdom, and the general opposition one experiences swimming upstream against the world and carnal Christians), God promises to make it up to us with blessing (Matt 5:10-12; Heb 11). Therefore, we need not fear, nor be troubled, but we need to set apart (sanctify) the Lord as God in our hearts (where we make our decisions, His will rules), and be always ready to make a defense/answer (apologia) for the hope that is in us. This is not about making the case for the existence of God, necessity and reliability of Scriptures, etc., (although you should be able to do that, if not see the 7QUESTIONS in the Sidebar), but the apologia is for the hope of blessing/reward that is in us, which motivates us to endure suffering for doing good. Chapter 1 is a good place to start your “defense.” Our response should be in humility and fear of God (or respect towards the questioner, both are good ideas). Peter elaborates that we must hold on to a good conscience (sensitive and obedient to God's will) so that if accused, the accusation will be unjust and undeserved, which paves the way for blessing and witness. It just could be God's will that we suffer for doing good (like Jesus did), which is far better than suffering for doing what is evil. Note that these are instructions to born-again believers.

3:18-22 The reason it is better to suffer for doing good is because it not only follows the example of Christ, but results in blessing in the presence of God. Verse 18 is a great verse to memorize and use in sharing the Bridge to Life Illustration. Christ was totally righteous and suffered once (on the cross) for our sins so that He might bring us into a relationship with God. He was put to death in the realm of the flesh, and made alive in the realm of the spirit. Note the parallelism. There are a couple of 10MinuteBible.com videos (part 1) on YouTube that explain the context and passage in more depth than I'll do in this post, so click on them (part 2) for more. (There are also sermons on 1Peter on Truthbase.net.) In the realm of the spirit, Christ preached through Noah to those who were disobedient in his day (Noah, the preacher of righteousness -2Pt 2:2) Peter singles out those of Noah's day, because he wants to use the audience and ark illustration for the present day. Those persecuting the NT believers were those to whom Christ had preached directly and through John and the apostles but they rejected the message. So He is patiently waiting until the day of judgment, when believers will reap the final aspect of their salvation, and those who reject God will be negatively judged. The ark might correspond to the church (1Pt 2:5-6). Noah and his family were saved through or by the judgment of water, which destroyed the evildoers around them. The preposition dia denotes the channel or means by which an action occurs. The salvation was accomplished by means of the water (not the ark). If Peter wanted to say the ark saved them from the water, he would have used ek or apo. The righteous NT believer would be saved from their corrupt generation, just like Noah was from his, by the water. So much for the audience allusion.

Next Peter says that baptism is an anti-type (antitupos), something that corresponds to an image or type in the OT (only other use of the word is Heb 9:24 to refer to the OT sacrificial system). Corresponding to the water that saved Noah from his generation, baptism saves us from our generation. It is not getting wet (which means it is not referring to the immersion or sprinkling of water that gets the external dirt off us, but the “pledge” or seeking (the word means to make an inquiry rather than “answer”) of a good conscience toward God, based upon the resurrection of Christ. Keeping in mind the context of the book (always a good thing to do) believers who have their hope fixed upon their reward, which they gain by faithful behavior and forfeit by bad behavior, pledge or seek a good conscience which results in God rewarding them, as He did Jesus (Phil 2:9-12). To live holy lives, one must distance themselves from their pre-Christian behavior and those who live just for this world (the generation of the Christ-rejecting Jews who were persecuting them). The way to do that in the early church was baptism, the first step of discipleship for those who were born-again by faith in Christ's death for them. Paul elaborated on the picture in Romans 6, that one died to the old way of life, when they were buried with Christ in baptism, and then rose up from the water to walk in newness of life. Peter is clearly writing to born-again believers (1:3), instructing them that they need to live righteously if they want to reap the reward God has planned for them. That will involve suffering for doing what is good, which requires a death to self so one can live for God. Baptism is a picture of that, not the getting wet, but the seeking of the heart which motivates the obedience in getting wet. When believers were baptized, the persecution normally intensified. But the holy living would result in their salvation/glorification. The opening verses of the next chapter should validate this interpretation if you're not already convinced.

Application: Die to your old values, and pledge to live for what God values, particularly in your relationships with those around you.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Amen.

1 Peter 4 Mental Armor and Obedient Behavior

4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind; for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin; 2 that you no longer should live the rest of your time in the flesh for the lusts/cravings of men, but for the will/desire of God. 3 For we have spent enough of our past time doing the desire/will of the Gentiles, and having walked in lewdness, lusts, drunken binges, orgies, carousings, and abominable idolatries.

4 They think it is strange that you don’t run with them into the same excess of riot, blaspheming: 5 who will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For to this end the Good News was preached even to the dead, that though they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but they might live according to God in the spirit.

7 But the end of all things is near. Therefore be of sound mind, and watchful for the purpose of (eis) prayer. 8 And above all things be earnest in your love among yourselves, for love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gracething, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the grace of God in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, let it be as it were the very words of God. If anyone serves, let it be as of the strength which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

12 Beloved, don’t be astonished at the fiery trial which has come upon you, to test you, as though a strange thing happened to you. 13 But because you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings, rejoice; that at the revelation of his glory you also may rejoice with exceeding joy. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed; because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. On their part he is blasphemed, but on your part he is glorified. 15 For let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil doer, or a meddler in other men’s matters. 16 But if one of you suffers for being a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this matter. 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. If it begins first with us, what will happen to those who don’t obey the Good News of God? 18 "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will happen to the ungodly and the sinner?" 19 Therefore let them also who suffer according to the will of God in doing good entrust their souls to him, as to a faithful Creator.

Observations: 4:1-3 Since Christ suffered in the flesh in order to receive glorification by the Father (exalted to the right hand, ready to rule the future Kingdom), those who follow Him should arm themselves with the same mindset. Those who have died to their old values, and suffered in the pursuit of glory, have ceased (perfect tense, action completed in the past with ongoing results into the present) from sin. Mental armor is necessary since the battle is won or lost in our thinking. Peter tells his readers that they've had enough time to do what those who don't know God do, and realize it's not worth it. Some people are slow learners. It took Solomon a while to figure out that there was nothing under the sun that gave lasting pleasure apart from God (Ecclesiastes), but then he forgot his own advice. We need to keep this truth central in our thinking.

4:4-6 The former companions of the believers think it strange that those who learned to delight in God aren't as attracted to playing in the mud, and speak against them. But all will have to give account to God, who will judge (1:17) the living and the dead. The edited translation above is more in line with the Greek and context than most you'll find. In preparation, the Good News of the coming Kingdom was preached to all, including those who are now dead (possibly as a result of persecution) so that (purpose statement), even though they might or may be judged (subjunctive mood is that of uncertainty) on the one hand (a Greek particle, Strong's #3303 omitted by most translations) according to the standards of men in the realm of the flesh (by being martyred), they might live according to God's standards in the realm of the spirit (by believing the good news about the Kingdom). Note that “judged” is parallel to “live,” and the additional parallelism of “according to” and “in” is taken into account; as well as the immediate context of the Good News being proclaimed to them, the further context of living, and holy life, and the book context of gaining glory. It would be difficult to find another interpretation that takes the argument, grammar, syntax, and contexts into account.

4:7-11 The culmination of all things is near (which is how every generation should view things so as not to get complacent), therefore believers need to govern their life and actions by the objective of doing well at the judgment seat (be sound-minded), and have an accurate view of reality (sober) so they can pray appropriately and not just dribble meaningless words. Particularly believers need to be obeying the command to love each other, for such a love corrects and covers/hides (as in prevents) a multitude of sins (Js 5:20). Greater love has no one than this, that they risk rejection and ridicule and a diminished relationship by reproving (bringing to light) the flaws of a self-deceived believer. Hell knows no fury like a hypocrite exposed. Believers should use whatever gracething (charisma) they have for the benefit of their fellow believers, so that God is glorified. That means being a good steward of God's grace and using whatever the Spirit has given (see 1Cor 12) to accomplish His purposes in building up others, be it speaking God's words, or serving with the strength God supplies.

4:12-19 Recalling the opening theme of their faith being refined by trials so they will gain greater reward (1:7), Peter reminds them that suffering frequently is the will of God for those who follow Christ to glory. But it is worth it, for to the degree they suffer, they will share in the glory. This is clearly teaching differential rewards for different levels of service (1Cor 15). Those who aren't suffering outward trials can join in the fun by daily denying themselves for the benefit of others. There's plenty of abuse to go around for those who seek to spur others on to Christlikeness. If one is insulted for the name of Christ, they are actually blessed, because the Spirit of Glory (note the name) rests upon them. The Holy Spirit is the first installment of our inheritance (Eph 1:13) which implies that future payments will be additional bestowals of the Spirit, to do God's will in the Millennium and beyond. The glory or power or energy of God is the only imperishable thing in the universe given to us. Note too, that the Spirit rests upon and remains with the faithful believer. The unfaithful and unbelieving will always speak against those serving God because faithful servants make the unprofitable servants feel guilty, and blame is a good way to balance out the guilt (repentance would be a better way). But on the part of the faithful, God is glorified, because when He pours out His glory as a reward, He is displaying it, which is what God being glorified is all about (He is inherently glorious). So if a believer is going to suffer, they should do so smartly or meritoriously, not stupidly or deservedly. The reason is because the time is coming for judgment to begin with the household of God, those who are His servants in His household. If the good guys are judged, what will be the outcome for those who don't obey (not don't believe) the gospel? The Good News is that Christ is coming to judge and reward His faithful followers (Isa 40:10). Believing that Jesus is the Messiah is one thing. Obeying Him is another. It is hard for the righteous to be saved/glorified, because it requires sacrifice and self-denial (see the Sermon on the Mount Mt 5-7). This salvation of which Peter speaks, is of works, hard work. Those who take the broad and easy road cannot look forward to glory, but to unpleasantness. The ungodly and sinner are those among the believers who don't know and do what God wants, but instead do their own thing. To fail to see this is to fail to receive one's eternal reward. Those who can't see that this passage is intended to motivate believers to obedience are demonically deceived and in all probability living in disobedience. But those who live in obedience, and suffer according to the will of God, should continue to do good, and commit their souls/interests to their faithful Creator, who created them in Christ Jesus for this purpose.

Application: One needs the same mental armor that helped Christ live sound-mindedly (knowing God would justly reward) to keep on the path of obedient suffering which is the only route to glory.

Prayer: Lord, may I be strong and focused on doing Your will, and not my own, on my way to happily ever after. Amen.

1 Peter 5 Glory for the Vigilant and Humble

5:1 I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and who will also share in the glory that will be revealed. 2 Shepherd/pastor the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion, but voluntarily, not for dishonest gain, but willingly; 3 neither as lording it over those entrusted to you, but making yourselves examples to the flock. 4 When the chief Shepherd is revealed, you will receive the crown of glory that doesn’t fade away.

5 Likewise, you younger ones, be subject to the elders. Yes, all of you clothe yourselves with humility, to subject yourselves to one another; for "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; 7 casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.

8 Be sober and vigilant/self-controlled because your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Withstand him steadfast in your faith, knowing that your brothers who are in the world are undergoing the same sufferings.

10 But may the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. 11 To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

12 Through Silvanus, our faithful brother, as I consider him, I have written to you briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God; stand fast in it. 13 She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, greets you; and so does Mark, my son. 14 Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace be to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Observations: 5:1-4 Peter addresses the elders (who, as leaders, were singled out for grief by the external opponents and internal rebels), exhorting them as a fellow-elder (not pope). He saw the sufferings of Christ, and knows that he will share in the glories that follow (1:11) because he has been faithful (following his own advice). Peter tells the elders, to shepherd and oversee the flock, the same two tasks Paul entrusted to the elders in Acts 20:28 (see comments there, and in Ephesians 4). To shepherd is the word for pastor, and to oversee is the word for bishop. Both tasks are entrusted to elders (plural). There is not a separate “office” for each. He doesn't give the qualifications for elders that Paul gave Timothy and Titus for the Greek churches, since Peter is writing to a Jewish audience that had an elder leadership structure in both the villages and synagogues. Governance was carried out by the mature, who served and shepherded those under their care. When the chief Shepherd (this is the only legitimate occurrence of ”Senior Pastor”) is revealed with His glory -1:7 He will share it with those who have obediently done His will. He might not feel as gracious toward those who have used the flock as a source of worth and value (ego and monetary) nor those who've usurped His title when He's been away. The glory is described as a crown (rulership) that doesn't fade like earthly crowns of leaves.

5:5-7 The younger folks are commanded to be subject (imperative) to the elders and submissively (participle) be humble (imperative) to each other (cf Eph 5:21). The reason is because God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. James quoted Proverbs 3:34 to his readers (4:6) with an emphasis on the temporal grace, but Peter stresses the future grace/glory that God gives the humble obedient.

Proverbs 3:32 "For the perverse person is an abomination to the LORD, But His secret counsel is with the upright. 33 The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, But He blesses the home of the just. 34 Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble. 35 The wise shall inherit glory, But shame shall be the legacy of fools."

One humbles themselves by yielding their will for the benefit of another, rather than proudly questing for temporal worth and value. God will exalt the humble in due time, but in the meantime, they can cast the cares and concerns for the current and future well-being upon God (as Jesus did), because He cares for them.

5:8-11 Like James, Peter links pride with waving a red flag in front of the devil. If a lack of humble trust in God's goodness could trip up the highest created being, then we mere mortals are even more susceptible. (The same warning applies to the desires of the flesh from the life of world's wisest man, Solomon, in 1 Kings 10-11). Therefore believers need to be on their guard against the devil, having an accurate view of reality (a drunk person doesn't see clearly, nor accurately assess risks and rewards). Our adversary, the devil is described as a roaring lion, who roams about, seeking to devour the proud and disobedient. He also surreptitiously takes believers captive to do his will (2 Timothy 2:26) and inveigles false teachers into the church (Acts 20:29-30). Satan was defeated at the Cross, but is a lame duck ruler until the Messiah comes back, imprisons and finally destroys Him (Revelation 20:1-3). See Spiritual Warfare: Defense Against the Dark Arts on Truthbase.net for resources, so you don't become a statistic. Peter gives another piece of mental armor in addition to those in verse 8. Believers should resist him, firm in their faith (1 John 4:4), knowing that suffering isn't something strange and alien to the Christ-following life, but rather the common experience of those who please God.

However, the suffering is temporary, and after what will seem like a very short time from the perspective of eternity (although suffering can seem to go on forever), the God of all grace/glory, who has called/invited them to the glory of the Messianic Age (same word as eternal) will perfect (bring to completion as in glorify them), establish, strengthen,and establish them (most likely a reference to their placement in the Millennial kingdom based upon the order and introduction to the prayer/benediction).

5:12-14 Peter writes through Silvanus, testifying that the glory believers will receive is the “true grace” of God. Then he commands them to stand fast in it (imperative according to the oldest manuscripts but distorted by many translations). Peter is not telling them the glory of God is something they all automatically have, but rather something they need to take their stand in by obeying his instructions in the epistle. Most people who bandy about the term “grace” haven't a clue about the true grace Peter described in this epistle, and will most likely miss it. See a Survey of Grace on Truthbase.net for the whole picture. Commentators are divided regarding the identity of “she who is in Babylon, some arguing for the literal city on the Euphrates, others seeing a veiled reference to his location at Rome. John Mark, Barnabas' cousin is considered to have written the second gospel under Peter's direction. Paul normally ended with an exhortation to a holy kiss to express affection among believers; Peter uses the term agape kiss, underscoring the self-sacrificial behavior they should have toward each other rather than superficial relationships. He concludes with a wish for the covenantal blessing of peace for all those who are in union with Christ Jesus.

Application: Believers who live in humble unity and obedience will experience Satanic opposition, but eventually reach their final destination as glorified servants in the Messiah's Kingdom.

Prayer: God, thanks that You care for me, and I can entrust all my concerns to You; may I be vigilant and victorious in my faith until I realize my hope of Your glory. Amen.

Digging Deeper

God in a nutshell: God will judge both the living and the dead, to reward those who are faithful to Him. In this judgment, the righteous are saved/glorified with difficulty, the outcome for those who don't obey the good news isn't positive. God resists the proud and gives grace and glory to the humble.

Build-a-Jesus: Jesus suffered to bring us into a relationship with God, so we could be blessed. He is coming back to reward those loyal to Him.

Us in a nutshell: We are invited/called to inherit a blessing, but will only receive it if we are worthy of it, by demonstrating Christ-like behavior. Submissive suffering for the sake of Christ and righteousness is meritorious, and results in Millennial glory. Believers need to draw upon the strength God provides to do His will, and lovingly serve each other. Those who don't will miss out.

Where to Go for More:

Truthbase.net

1 Timothy 1-3 God Wants All Saved and True

1 Timothy 1-3 God Wants All Saved and True

TMS 1 Peter 5:7 Put Your Whole World in His Hands

1 Peter 5:7 “Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for " God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." 6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,

7 casting all your care upon Him,

for He cares for you.

8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour."

Observations: 5:7 This is an easy verse to memorize, and not that difficult to start doing. The difficulty lies in refraining from taking back your cares and concerns from God's hand. The word for casting is used only one other time in the NT (Lk 19:35) of the disciples tossing their cloaks upon the Psalm Sunday colt. “Cares” are the concerns for things of this world which choke the word and make it unfruitful (Mt 13:22; Mk 4:19; Lk 8:14). In the context of 1Peter 5 (see comments there), it describes the concern for one's status and reputation, and what will happen if one actually does submit. Whatever makes you anxious is legitimate from the broader context of the gospels and other passages (i.e., Phil 4:6-7). Failure to obey this admonition, particularly as it relates to pride and humility, is an open invitation for the devil to devour you (5:8).

Application: Step one: Know that God is far better able to care for us, and the things that concern us, than we are. Express that conviction to God in prayer.

Step two: Tell God that you are trusting Him to take care of each specific item that concerns you, and visualize yourself placing it in His hands.

Step three: Ask God what He wants you to do, this day, about any of the items.

Step four: Do whatever He reveals, and leave all the cares in His capable hands.

Step five: Enjoy His peace, and thank Him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I praise You that You are so mighty and capable of taking care of all that concerns me; I trust that You will take care of X, Y, Z, and work it out for good; please show me whatever You want me to do about these things; thanks for Your promises of peace. Amen.

1 Timothy 1-3 The letters to Timothy and Titus comprise the Pastoral Epistles, giving advice on issues of church life. Each letter gives qualifications for church leadership (elders) and there is a practical guide to those marks of godliness under Digging Deeper. Paul writes to encourage and empower Timothy in his task of building up the churches so they function as God desires. Both corporate and individual applications appear, as well as truth designed to encourage those who serve God.

1 Timothy 1 The Goal of Instruction

1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus according to the authoritative order of God our Savior, and Christ Jesus our hope; 2 to Timothy, my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 As I urged you when I was going into Macedonia, stay at Ephesus that you might command certain men not to teach a different doctrine, 4 neither to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which cause disputes, rather than godly edification, which is in/by faith—

5 but the goal of this command is love, out of a pure heart and a good conscience and sincere faith; 6 from which things some, having missed the mark, have turned aside to vain talking; 7 desiring to be teachers of the law, though they understand neither what they say, nor about what they strongly affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good, if a man uses it lawfully, 9 as knowing this, that law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 for the sexually immoral, for homosexuals, for slave-traders, for liars, for perjurers, and for any other thing contrary to the sound doctrine; 11 according to the Good News of the glory of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.

12 And I thank him who enabled me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he counted me faithful, appointing me to service; 13 although I was before a blasphemer, a persecutor, and insolent. However, I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord abounded exceedingly with faith/trust and love which is in Christ Jesus. 15 The saying is faithful and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 16 However, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first, Jesus Christ might display all his patience, for an example of those who were going to believe in him for eternal/of the Age life/dominion. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

18 This instruction I commit to you, my son Timothy, according to the prophecies made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare; 19 holding faith and a good conscience; which some having cast away have suffered shipwreck concerning the faith; 20 of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I delivered to Satan, that they might be taught not to blaspheme.

Observations: 1:1-4 Paul write to his “true born” son in the faith, Timothy, giving him written authority to set the Ephesian church plant in order. Like any growing plant, some pruning and structure is necessary for proper growth. Too much structure stifles growth, too little results in lack of fruit. Paul tells Timothy to ensure purity and priority of sound teaching, by confronting those who teach inaccurately or major on the minors. Biblical teaching builds faithful reproductive disciples. Anything less is not God's will. The edification of which Paul speaks is that which follows upon faith in the revelation of Christ (about Him and by Him), rather than the law (Judaizers are everywhere). Paul is an apostle by God's authoritative order/command Acts 26:17 I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, 18 to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.'

Note God as Savior -Ps 24:5. He wishes Timothy the usual blessings of grace and peace, but adds mercy (which is the Greek translation of the Hebrew hesed), God's loyal covenantal love. As Timothy combats the enemies of truth, an awareness of God's loyalty to those who do His will would be energizing and encouraging.

1:5 The goal of the command to restrain false and frivolous teaching is for believers to be built up so they manifest agape (loyal Christlike love), which sums up the requirements of the law and obeys the great command given by Christ (John 13:34-35). If teaching doesn't equip believers to love biblically, it isn't biblical. Agape must come from a pure/cleansed heart (whose values reflect God's values, not the world's), a good conscience (a guilt-free consciousness of doing what is pleasing in God's sight, mentioned six times in the Pastorals; see comments on Acts 24:16), and a faith that is unfeigned (also used to modify love). A pure heart is a function of obeying the truth (1Pt 1:22). The faith necessary for agape love (sacrificing oneself to do what is in another's best interest) must be sincere, unfeigned, undisguised, and not hypocritical. This is not a reference to genuineness of belief in Christ's atonement (that is almost never an issue in the NT), nor even that of consistency between belief and behavior (although that is a frequent issue), but in this context is most probably a reference to an unreserved adherence to the revelation about and by Christ (rather than that of the law). Such faith would be consistent with Galatians 5:6 (faith working through love) and Hebrews 11:6 (faith that God rewards those who diligently seek Him).

1 Peter 1:22 Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit for sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart,

1:6-11 The people Timothy needed to shut up were those who had turned aside from love, obedience (conscience) and faith (as delivered by Jesus) to teach the law and its rituals. As many today, they don't understand what they are saying (parroting) and affirming (shouting about). Law (no article in the Greek) is not set in place for the righteous, but to restrain the wicked (see comments on the Law being a guardian until Christ in Gal 3:23). The list of lawless acts echos Paul's list of the deeds of the flesh (Gal 5:19) and the sins which cause believers to lose their inheritance/reward (1Cor 6:9; Eph 5:5). All these behaviors are contrary to sound teaching/doctrine, and not according to the good news/gospel of the glory that faithful believers will receive. Remember Paul's commission in Acts 26 is so that the Gentiles would obtain an inheritance among those sanctified by faith in Christ (not law-keeping).

1:12-17 Paul explains why God entrusted him with the gospel even though formerly he was chief of sinners: God had shown him mercy because he had acted in ignorance, and then considered him faithful with the grace God had shown him (1Cor 15:10), which abounded with the faith/trust and love in/by Christ. It is a trustworthy saying that Jesus came into the world to save sinners, so they might believe and eventually receive dominion in the Messianic Age. Paul considered himself a showcase for God's gracious patience with those who believe. Therefore Paul praises God the King of the Ages, who is incorruptible, and transcendent (beyond the physical realm, thus invisible), the only wise God, to whom belong glory and honor forever. If Paul was entrusted with his ministry because he was faithful with what God had given him, then Timothy must also be faithful (a word used sixteen times in the Pastorals).

1:18-20 Paul commits this instruction to his son in the faith, reminding him of the prophesies made concerning Timothy, (referred to 4:14 and 2Tim. 1:6) to which he too must be faithful. By recalling how God had put him in His service, Timothy could draw encouragement from God's placement of Timothy as Paul's deputy. Believer's today do not need any such prophecy or “call” to service since God has already given them a written invitation and commission (Mt 28:19-20, and all the one-another commands; see 2Tim 2:2). Even though God had specifically designated Timothy as He had Paul, Timothy needed to wage battle against Satan and his agents, holding on to his belief in the truth and a good conscience (obeying what he knows - Acts 24:16). If he abandoned those his faith would suffer shipwreck (as in not get him to his destination of glory -Heb 2:1 miss the destination). A shipwrecked faith doesn't cause one to be unborn again, but does cause one to miss out on inheritance/reward in the Kingdom. Two such shipwrecked saints were Hy and Al, whom Paul delivered to Satan for discipline, so they might not speak against the truth and Paul (1Cor 5:5).

Application: If we hold onto our belief in God's promises, and obey what we know (good conscience) we will sail safely through turbulent waters to future glory.

Prayer: God, thanks that You provide the truth and grace I need to do Your will, particularly in loving others; please help me use it to Your glory. Amen.

1 Timothy 2 Saved and True

2:1 I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks, be made for all men: 2 for kings and all who are in high places; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; 4 who wills/desires all people to be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all; the testimony in its proper time; 7 to which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth in Christ, not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 I desire therefore that the men in every place pray, lifting up holy hands without anger and disputing.

9 In the same way, that women also adorn themselves in modest clothing, with honor and propriety; not just with braided hair, gold, pearls, or expensive clothing; 10 but (which becomes women professing godliness) with good works. 11 Let a woman learn in quietness with all submission. 12 But I don’t permit a woman to teach, nor to exercise authority over a man, but to be in quietness. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 Adam wasn’t deceived, but the woman, being deceived, has fallen into disobedience; 15 but she will be saved through her childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and sanctification with soundmindedness.

Observations: 2:1-4 In light of the spiritual battle believers face, Paul emphasizes the priority of prayer for all, especially those in authority, so that believers may live in peace and dignity. This is good and right in the sight of God our Savior, who desires that all people be saved, and (wait there's more!) come to an experiential knowledge of the truth (see comments on Titus 1:1). God's desires/wills (Strong's #2309 thelo: resolve, determine, purpose) for all to be saved is based on the fact that Jesus was given as a ransom for all people (not just the Jews or a select few -2Pt 3:9). There is only one way to God (John 14:6; Acts 4:12) and that is through the one mediator (middle man) between God and men, Jesus, and only Him. This eliminates all other mediators or need for one. Those who don't have a relationship with Jesus will think that praying to someone else to intercede for them will help, but that's idolatry. Praying to anyone else but God, in the name of Jesus, is to ignore God's revelation, which is a guaranteed way to have God ignore you. The God-Man Jesus is the only provision/ransom (Mt 20:29; Lk 10:45) God has provided for man's sin, and the only death He'll accept in our place.

Don't miss the other desire/will of God, which is experiential knowledge of the truth, an intimate, sanctified relationship with Him, based upon the truth (rather than tradition). God's will is that people go beyond justification and walk in the revealed truth of the Spirit.

Lot's of deceived people miss these three truths, so here they are again:

• There is only one Mediator, Jesus (that's you-Jesus-Father) no one else in-between;
• God wills all people to be saved (not just a select few);
• God wills for saved people experience and walk in the truth/light.

Anything other than the above is not God's will, although people are free to refuse His will and do their own thing, but they will suffer the sovereign consequences He's attached to their choices. Paul was appointed to give testimony to the Gentiles, teaching them the will of God in the sphere of faith and in the sphere of truth (corresponding to the will of God in verse 4). Paul indeed brought the Gentiles to both faith in Christ, and transformation in the truth (cf Titus 1:1). Therefore he asks for prayer for the fulfillment of his purpose. The admonition to pray without anger or disputing is a counter to the disunity in 1:5, and stresses the need for righteous relationships with others if we expect God to answer what we request (Mt 5:24). Men frequently seek worth and value by being better than other men, rather than being better than they used to be in God's sight.

2:9 Similarly, women frequently compete with other women, to get worth and value by being attractive from a human rather than Divine perspective. It's not mere appearance which is attractive in the sight of God (and a godly man), but an honorable character, engaged in good works (God's purpose in saving us -Eph 2:10). Braiding the bristles of a pig, and dressing it in jewels and silk, doesn't make it beautiful. Paul addresses the role of women in the church in a manner similar to 1Corinthians 14:34 (see observations there). It might be worth noting that both the OT and NT elevated the status of women far above cultural norms, and it was the Woman's Christian Temperance Unions that led to women's right to vote. As mentioned previously, function makes no comment about worth or value of a person (see Submission: The S Word on Truthbase.net). Paul says that women should learn in quietness and submission, should not teach, nor exercise authority over men (in the church is the context 3:15). According to the Holy Spirit inspired apostle, women are to be under authority (as are all believers). In they church they are not to teach, nor serve as authoritative leadership (as a governing board). The reason Paul gives is not cultural (see comments on 1Cor 11) but universal. Doing what is right in God's sight is far more important, than human recognition, and the source of eternal worth and value. In contrast to leadership roles in the church, the sphere in which a woman reaps rewards is in the family, through the raising of the next godly generation (not just having babies). Saved in this context is not justification, but glorification, dependent also upon continuance in faith, love, sanctification/holiness, with soundmindedness (a Greek term for a life governed by principled objectives). See more on this subject on Trustbase.net and the upcoming Catacomb Church. A woman can serve in “official” capacity, even on a church board, under the delegation of Biblically qualified men (see next chapter). She could be asked or given permission to share things that build up the Body, even from a public platform (such as a missionary or ministry experience), and still fit under Paul's injunction. Women encouraging men in the truth ( Aquila and Priscilla -Acts 18:26) would be a good idea, but publicly leading men in churches in matters of truth would not.

Application: God desires that all people not just be justified, but experience all His communicated truth in their lives.

Prayer: God, may I fulfill Your desire for me by walking today, and everyday in Your truth; show me where I'm missing it, and please guide me into it. Thanks. Amen.

1 Timothy 3 Models of Godliness.

3:1 This is a faithful saying: if a man seeks the office of an overseer/bishop, he desires a good work. 2 The overseer therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, modest, hospitable, apt to teaching; 3 not a drinker, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; 4 one who rules his own house well, having children in subjection with all reverence; 5 (but if a man doesn’t know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the assembly of God?) 6 not a new convert, lest being puffed up he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. 7 Moreover he must have good testimony from those who are outside, to avoid falling into reproach and the snare of the devil.

8 Servants/deacons, in the same way, must be reverent, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for money; 9 holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 Let them also first be tested; then let them serve if they are blameless. 11 Their wives in the same way must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let servants be husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who have served well gain for themselves a good standing, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

14 These things I write to you, hoping to come to you shortly; 15 but if I wait long, that you may know how men ought to behave themselves in the house of God, which is the assembly of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 16 Without controversy, the mystery of godliness is great: God was revealed in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and received up in glory.

Observations: 3:1-13 God's plan for church leadership are mature models of godliness, who have been receptive to the objective will of the Holy Spirit in their own lives, and thus able to discern His will in church matters. No gifting or calling is specified nor required. Paul gives Timothy this list (compare the similar list in Titus), so Timothy has the authority to recognize those people in whom the Holy Spirit has been working, and who he can appoint to lead the church. Eventually as the Body matures, they would be able to use this list to recognize the godly leaders without direct apostolic appointment. These are not just requirements for elders, but for all believers, hence the title “Models of Godliness.” All believers should strive to have these qualities in their lives (this is more obvious in Titus), because they form the basis of gaining eternal reward (3:13). The list below under Digging Deeper is written so any individual can evaluate their own life, and that of a prospective elder. You'll find a lot more on this topic in the Catacomb Church, since Biblical leadership is the defining mark of a Biblical church. There you'll also find out suggestions for what to do if there is no godly male leadership.

The general requirement for an elder is to be above reproach (un-indictable, not enough pattern of evidence of wrongdoing for a conviction), but not perfect. The “disqualifications” are explained in the list below, but a comment about marriage is worth noting. Church leaders should be married with godly kids (although the list below could be used for evaluating someone not in that position). The reason for godly kids, is one needs to manage one's household well (proof in the pudding) before one can manage God's household. Parenting is a team sport, and if a guy can't have a unified approach to parenting with his wife, he's not going to be capable of reaching consensus with other leaders about more subjective church issues. The secret to godly kids is vigilant, loving confrontation and correction of sin. (See Parenting resources on Truthbase.net, especially the Proverbial Parent.) This is the skill necessary to be a good shepherd of God's sheep. “Husband of one wife” translates “one woman man,” which means that a guy's sexual attention is directed solely toward his wife. The need for a good reputation with outsiders is so one doesn't try to get worth and value at the expense of others in the church. Anyone who wants the job for status is unqualified to do it.

Deacons (the Greek word is “servant”) are not necessarily a permanent office, but more ad hoc ministers to needs in the Body (see comments on Acts 6). Requirements for their wives are mentioned, because deacons are often involved in meeting personal needs and gossip could ruin the reputation of folks.

See comments on Leadership in Acts 20 for more on the tasks of shepherding/pastoring and overseeing/bishoping being entrusted solely to elders (also 1 Peter 5:1-5). See the evaluative compilation of this list and Titus 1 in Marks and Models of Godliness below under Digging Deeper.

3:14-16 Paul gives his purpose in writing, so that Timothy would have an authoritative basis for correcting the church. Paul describes the Body/assembly of believers (not the building) as the household of the living God, the supporting pillar of the truth. Paul then elaborates on that truth which the church upholds, calling it the mystery (previously unrevealed information) of godliness (knowing and doing what God requires -see Titus 1). The mystery consists of the incarnation, (death), resurrection, glorification, revelation to the nations, reception by the world, and enthronement of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. This the foundation on which every Biblical church rests.

Application: Go through the marks of godliness under Digging Deeper and honestly evaluate yourself (male or female, young or old) and see what kind of model you are for others. Take any corrective action necessary.

Prayer: God, thanks that You make possible all You expect me to do and be; may I draw upon Your grace to obey and serve You, for Your glory. Amen.

Digging Deeper

God in a nutshell: God wants all to be saved and come to an experiential knowledge of the truth.

Build-a-Jesus: Jesus is the only ransom and mediator between God and man (no intermediaries). He is God in the flesh, now enthroned in glory.

Us in a nutshell: Believers are the household of God, and must operate according to His organizational structure, in unity and harmony.

Models of Godliness - Elder Qualifications 

1Tim 4:7 train yourself to be godly 6:11 pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love... Titus1:1 apostle for faith...and experiential knowledge of the truth which leads to godliness, 2Pt 1:3  add to your faith...perseverance, godliness...not unfruitful...rich welcome

Titus 1:6  elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children believe & are not open to the charge of being wild & disobedient.
I Timothy 3:2-5 Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife... 4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. 5 (If anyone doesn't know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?)

I. BLAMELESS (Above reproach, Unindictable)
A. Is there anything in his life that has not been dealt with in a biblical manner? Could you charge him with any uncorrected wrongdoing? Is there any way in which he is not a model of godliness?
B. If so, follow the principle of Matthew 18.
C. Can he limit his natural desires to do what God desires or what is best for others?
D. Is he a model of godliness, in the sense that he is characterized by consistent experiential knowledge (application) of truth?
E. Does his behavior indicate that his actions are based upon a strong hope or expectation of eternal rewards? (Titus 1:2)

II. HUSBAND-OF ONE WIFE (One woman man)
A. Are his attentions and delights focused solely on his wife?
B. Do his interactions with other women indicate that he is a one-woman man?
C. Does his relationship with his wife indicate that he would not drift towards an actual or fantasized affair?
D .Do the observable parts of his life provide evidence that he has control of his desires?
E. Does he limit his desires, for the benefit of his wife?

III. BELIEVING CHILDREN (Passing on the faith)
A. Has he passed on his faith to his children (and others)?
B. Is his relationship with Jesus such that it is attractive to others?
C. Is he free from hypocrisy so that he's the same at church and at home?

IV. BEHAVING CHILDREN (Passing on the lifestyle)
A. Has he passed on the sound-minded control of his emotions and desires to his children?
B. Do his children (disciples) demonstrate the ability to limit their desires for a higher objective (wild = not saving)?
C. Has he passed on the lifestyle of submission to authority? Or are his children rebellious?
D. Do his children obey him with God-fearing respect?
E. Do his children honor their parents?

V. MANAGING FAMILY WELL
A. Does his family exhibit the Biblical pattern for families (Eph 5-6; Col 3) Is it a model for others?
B. Does his wife respond to his leadership with respect and submission?
C. Is he disciplining and training his children to fear the Lord?
D. Would you want the church to be like his family life?
E. Does he take the initiative in solving family difficulties or does he let things smolder until things explode?
F. Is his home in such an order that it can be used as a base for ministry?

Titus 1:7 Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless--not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. I Timothy -3:3 not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

VI. STEWARD/ENTRUSTED WITH GOD'S WORK
A. If you were God. would you hire him and entrust him with your property or business?   B. Why or why not?

VII. NOT OVERBEARING (Self-willed, Self-pleasing)
A. Does he insist on having his own way?
B. Does he patiently persuade or force his opinion on others?
C. Is he open to new ideas?
D. Does he nit-pick the little things under the guise of being right?
E. Does he make decisions based on what's right or what pleases him?./
F. Is he sensitive to what is in another's best interest as well as their feelings and preferences?

IX. NOT QUICK-TEMPERED
A. Can he endure injustice and ill-treatment?
B. Does he insist on being right?
C. Does he have to tell you what he thinks or can he control his anger?
D. In the face of sheer stupidity can he channel his outrage constructively?
E. Does irritation quickly flare up into anger?

X. NOT BESIDE WINE (Escapism)
A. Does he avoid or escape his responsibilities through procrastination?
B. Does he comfort himself or alter his experience or reality through alcohol, food, TV, travel, computer games or other forms of amusement?
C. Can he face and do the unpleasant?
D. Does he avoid and run away from failure or overcome and learn from it?

XI. NOT VIOLENT (Hasty in striking an opponent)
A. When wronged, does he lash out or seek to get even or get revenge?
B. Can he attack a position without attacking the person?
C. Has he freed himself from unrighteous anger, hate or hostility?
D. Can he disagree without being disagreeable?
E. Would you call him a peacemaker who can reconcile relationships?
F. Does he seek to understand another's position and the reasoning (or lack thereof) behind it before attacking the position?

XII. NOT PURSUING DISHONEST GAIN
A. Is he free from the love of money? Is he a workaholic?
B. Would he compromise a principle to add to his principal?
C. Does he live within a budget?
D. Does he tithe, recognizing God's ownership of all he has?
E. Will he compromise (not forsake) the truth so others will like him?
F. Does he base his estimate of himself and others on their income?
*G. Does he place his job ahead of his family or spiritual responsibilities, or does he neglect spiritual service for work?

Titus 1:8 Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined 
I Timothy 3:2 temperate self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach

XIII. HOSPITABLE (Lover of strangers)
A. Does he seek out strangers and visitors and make them feel welcome?
B. Can he develop a relationship with a stranger to the point where he can discern & help accomplish God's purposes for that person?
C. Does he use his home as a base for ministering to other's needs?
D. Is he growing in his circle of acquaintances and friendships?
Rom 12:13 Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality  Heb 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained strangers without knowing it. 1Pt 4:9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.

XIV. LOVER OF GOOD
A. Is he attracted toward what is good?
B. What good works have you seen demonstrated in his life?
C. Does he have a disdain for what is not good?
2Tim 3:2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive. disobedient to their parents, ungrateful unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God--5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. 7 always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth.

XV. SOUND MINDED (Self-controlled)
A. Does he govern his life by principles and objectives or by natural drives, appetites, and lusts. (i.e., sex or security)?
B. Is it obvious that he limits what he could be doing in order to do what God wants?
C. Can he explain the thinking behind his actions or does he just go with the flow?
D. Does his mind control his feelings and actions or does he react and then rationalize?
E. Does he think before he acts, making decisions based on accurate information?
F. Does he have grasp of the big picture so that he knows when he has enough information to make a decision that pleases God?
Mk 5:15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind,- and they were afraid. (see also 2 Cor 5:13)  Ac 26:25 "I am not insane, most excellent Festus, ' Paul replied. "What I am sayingis true and reasonable. Rm 12:3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you.- Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 2Tim 1 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. Titus 2:2 each the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. Titus 2:5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands so that no one will malign the word of God. 12 It teaches us to say "No " to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age,

XVI. JUST (Upright)
A. Has he taught himself to automatically know what is right and just and fair in the common circumstances of life (through steeping his values in Proverbs)?
B. Does he exhibit justice and fairness in dealing even with his opponents?
C. Does he operate according to God's standards and principles in all spheres of his life'?
D. Does he make decisions based on God's perspectives and values?

XVII. HOLY
A. Does he know or seek out what God wants or desires when faced with a decision?
B. Could you say that he does what Jesus would do in any given situation?
C. Would he be known as devout or pious?
D. Does he exhibit a concern for pleasing God?
E. Is he a model of personal holiness?
F. Do his speech and values indicate that he is in the world but not of the world?
G. Doss he care more about what God thinks than what others think?
Eph 4:22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
]Tim 2:10 You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed.
I Tim 2:81 want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.
Heb 7:26 Such a high priest meets our need-one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.

XVIII. DISCIPLINED (Power under control)
A. Does his will control his life so that he does what God wants even when his emotions and past experiences point in another direction?
B. Is there evidence that he can make or break a habit?
C. Does he consistently practice the disciplines of the Christian life: devotional time, Scripture memory, Bible study, and prayer?
D. Is self-control evident in his eating, exercise, and speech habits?
E. Can he inhibit or exhibit a desire at will?
F. Is it obvious that he is in training for the prize?
G. Is he controlling his life or are others or circumstances ruling it?
Ac 24:25 As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said 'that's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you. "
1Co 7:9 But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to bum.
1Co 9:25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. 7hey do it to get a crown that will not last,- but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Gal 5.-22 But the fruit of the Spirit is ..self-control.
2Pe 1:5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge, and to knowledge, self-control, and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness

I Timothy 3:2 ...able to teach…   Titus 1:9 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. 10 For there are many rebellious people, mere talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group. 11 They must be silenced, because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach--and that for the sake of dishonest gain.

XIX. ABLE TO TEACH

A. KNOWING THE WORD
1. Can he accurately represent what God has said?
2. Is he a diligent student of the Word of God?
3 . Is he on a path which over the course of a lifetime will lead to mastery of the Truth?
4. Is he mining fresh truth or recycling platitudes?
5. Does he know the whole counsel of God, or just ride hobbyhorses?
6. Does he emphasize what God emphasizes?

B. APPLYING THE WORD

1. IN EXAMPLE
a. Is his lifestyle such that he has credibility?
b. Does he practice what he preaches (model godliness)?
c. Is he an embodiment of sound doctrine? (hold firmly to the message)?

2. IN TEACHING
a. Is he able to limit his preferences and overcome obstacles to communicate so others understand?
b. Is his teaching geared to knowledge or obedience?

3. IN ENCOURAGING (calling alongside)
a. Does his teaching provide Biblical motivation for obedience?
b. Does he encourage others with the word (sound doctrine) or what they want to hear (pious platitudes)?
c. Does he encourage others in the Lord or build dependence on himself or other temporal props?

4. IN REPROVING
a. Does he love people enough to confront unbiblical thinking/actions even when he knows he won't be liked or
accepted (and may even be misunderstood and slandered)?
b. Is he more concerned about his reputation with God than with what others think of him?
c. Are his arguments based upon the Scriptures or his preferences?
d. Does he exhibit gentleness and long-suffering in his rebuking?
e. Does he bring things to light (reproof) before rebuke?
f. Does he allow time for repentance?
g. Does he follow up rebuke with encouragement if there's repentance or with initiating church discipline (Mt 18) if not?
h. Is his goal restoration or condemnation?

I Timothy 3:1 Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task.

XX. ASPIRE/DESIRE
A. Does he seek to be used by God in leading/serving others or does he act like he's doing God and others a favor?
B. Does he approach serving as worshipful service or a holy hobby?

I Timothy 3:6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil.

XXI. MATURE/HUMBLE
A. Has he had time to develop mature fruit of the Spirit in his life?
B. Is he prone to conceit or does he have a proper view of himself'.?
C. Has he eagerly sought service in the shadows as well as in the spotlight?

I Timothy 3:7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap.

XXII GOOD REPUTATION
A. Does he present the same picture at work or at home as he does at church?
B. Are his business practices above reproach?
C. Does his non-church life draw others to church and Christ?
D. Can he handle responsibility without it going to his head?
E. Would his boss fill out a recommendation form for him?

1Tim 3:8 Deacons. likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.

XXIII. RESPECTABLE
A. Is he worthy of respect due to his accomplishments and competence?
B. Has he done anything to undermine his respect?

XXIV. SINCERE (Not slanderers)
A. Does he keep his promises?

XXV. TEMPERATE
A. Can he restrain and control his appetites and desires?
B. See under "Escapism", "Sound-minded", and "Self-control".

XVI. NOT GREEDY FOR A QUICK BUCK
A. See under "Not Pursuing Dishonest Gain".

XXVII. KNOW THE TRUTH & APPLY THE TRUTH  A. See under "Able to Teach".

I Timothy 3. 1 0 They must first be tested, and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

XXVIII. TESTED
A. Has he demonstrated faithfulness in other "unofficial" tasks'?

XXIX. BLAMELESS See above #I.
ITim 3:11 Same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers, but temperate & trustworthy in everything.

XXX. WIFE WASHERS (Ephesians 5)
A. Has he been a stimulus to his wife's Christlikeness by both example and word?
B. Has he helped her grow in her obedience to the word and service?
C. Does his wife exhibit order and respectability'?
D. Is his wife known for her gracious edifying speech rather than indiscreet gossip or critical talk?
E. Can his wife be trusted with a secret or a responsibility?

Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:

1. Are all believers models of godliness?  Is godliness automatic or do we have to do something to achieve it? How do you get it?
2. Why the emphasis on family? How does a woman reflect on her husband? What can you tell about a person from their spouse>
3. What is “spiritual leadership”? Is it important? Should all men strive to become elders?  Should all believers strive to become godly?
4. What can you do to increase your GQ (godliness quotient) and that of those around you? Are you a model of godliness?

Where to Go for More:

Truthbase.net

Ephesians 5-6 Walk and Warfare

Ephesians 5-6 Walk and Warfare

Psalm 148:1-14 Exalting the Creator God Who Exalts Holy People

Ps 148:1 “Praise Yah! Praise Yahweh from the heavens! Praise him in the heights! 2 Praise him, all his angels! Praise him, all his hosts! 3 Praise him, sun and moon! Praise him, all you shining stars! 4 Praise him, you heavens of heavens, you waters that are above the heavens. 5 Let them praise the name of Yahweh, For he commanded, and they were created. 6 He has also established them forever and ever. He has made a decree which will not pass away.

7 Praise Yahweh from the earth, you great sea creatures, and all depths! 8 Lightning and hail, snow and clouds; stormy wind, fulfilling his word; 9 mountains and all hills; fruit trees and all cedars; 10 wild animals and all livestock; small creatures and flying birds; 11 kings of the earth and all peoples; princes and all judges of the earth; 12 both young men and maidens; old men and children: 13 let them praise the name of Yahweh, for his name alone is exalted. His glory is above the earth and the heavens. 14 He has lifted up the horn of his people, the praise of all his saints; even of the children of Israel, a people near to him. Praise Yah"

Observations: 148:1-14 This third Praise Psalm (see Ps 146) exhorts all of creation, the heavens and earth, (and all that is in both) to praise the name of Yahweh. The reason given in verse 5 is because God commanded, and it happened, bringing everything into existence as an express of His sovereign will. All the elements on earth fulfill His word alone, and His glory/rule is above/over the heavens and earth. Then in the last verse, the psalm zeros in on Israel and His holy ones (saints), whom he has exalted, and brought near to Himself (as in a near and dear relationship). He's not just the God “way up there” but one who is intimately involved in the lives of His people, exalting them (lifting up horn = power and prosperity; cx. Job 16:15), so they can exalt Him.

Application: We should praise the sovereign God of creation because He exalts His holy ones, and brings them into a relationship with Him (it would probably help things if we were holy to be in His presence, fulfilling the purposes for which He created us, and worthy of His exaltation and relationship [cx Israel in most of its history]).

Prayer: Sovereign Creator, You are worthy of all praise, from all that You have created; it's amazing that You want a relationship with me, may I be among those You exalt and bring near to Yourself; may my praise be pleasing to You. Amen.

TMS 1Peter 3:18 Being Brought to God

1Pt 3:18 “For Christ also suffered once for sins,

the just for the unjust,

that He might bring us to God,

being put to death in the flesh

but made alive by the Spirit”

Observations: 3:18 This is a great verse to memorize since it explains the heart of the substitutionary atonement (cf. Isa 53). It's the center of the Bridge to Life illustration (which you should be able to draw and explain from memory on a napkin or envelope). Christ died (once) in our place, so we didn't have to. However, He didn't just die for our forgiveness, but so that we could have a relationship with Him and He could bless us (see the context and comments in 1Peter 3).

Application: Learn how to share this passage with others by memorizing it and the Bridge to Life. Then use it to bring someone to God.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thanks for suffering and dying for me, so I could be forgiven and have a relationship with You; may I too, die to my old self, and live by the power of Your Spirit. Amen.

Ephesians 5-6 The previous chapter described how unified believers should live/walk worthy of their invitation to glory, so they actually arrive there. Chapter 5 describes how to walk in love, walk in the light, walk in wisdom, and walk in the Spirit, reaching the summit of unity, submitting to one another in the fear of God. Paul then parenthetically clarifies three hierarchical relationships that are exceptions to mutual submission. Finally he closes with the Spirit's strategy for corporate spiritual warfare, telling the Body how to stand in unity against the onslaughts of Satan. If the Body of believers follow God's instructions, they will be the temple in which He displays His glory to the world, and will fulfill God's final purpose for them as they share in the glorious inheritance of the saints in the light, during the future Kingdom of the Messiah.

Ephesians 5 Walk This Way

5:1 Be therefore imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 Walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling fragrance.

3 But sexual immorality, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not even be mentioned among you, as becomes saints; 4 nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not appropriate; but rather giving of thanks. 5 Know this for sure, that no sexually immoral person, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words. For because of these things, the wrath of God comes on the children of disobedience.

7 Therefore don’t be partakers with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but are now light in the Lord. Walk as children of light, 9 for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth, 10 proving/demonstrating what is well pleasing to the Lord. 11 Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works/deeds of darkness, but rather even reprove them. 12 For the things which are done by them in secret, it is a shame even to speak of. 13 But all things, when they are reproved, are revealed by the light, for everything that reveals is light. 14 Therefore he says, "Awake, you who sleep, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."

15 Therefore watch carefully how you walk, not as unwise/fools, but as wise; 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore don’t be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

18 Don’t be drunken with wine, in which is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit,

19 speaking to one another

in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; singing, and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

20 giving thanks always concerning all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to God, even the Father;

21 subjecting yourselves one to another in the fear of Christ.

22 Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, and Christ also is the head of the assembly/church, being himself the savior of the body. 24 But as the assembly is subject to Christ, so let the wives also be to their own husbands in everything.

25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly/church, and gave himself up for it; 26 that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word, 27 that he might present the assembly to himself gloriously, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28 Even so husbands also ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself. 29 For no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord also does the assembly; 30 because we are members of his body, of his flesh and bones. 31 "For this cause a man will leave his father and mother, and will be joined to his wife. The two will become one flesh." 32 This mystery is great, but I speak concerning Christ and of the assembly. 33 Nevertheless each of you must also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Observations: 5:1-2 We learn how to love by observing God's love of us. Butterfly believers (who undergo the mind/value transformation of 4:23 and Rm 12:1-2 -see comments there), should imitate Christ, in giving themselves for the benefit of others (love is sacrificially doing what is in another's best interest) in their worship of God. They will not engage in self-centered behavior as described in the last half of chapter 4, nor in the behaviors listed in this chapter. If they do, it doesn't mean that they're not saved/justified, but it means they will lose their reward/inheritance. Those who think or teach otherwise are demonically deceived, as Paul states in 5:6. The corrective for badly behaving believers is not to accept Christ, but to change the way one thinks, from believing the father of lies' deadly deceptions about life and pleasure, to believing and embracing the Spirit's truth about life. Those who walk/live in love, offer their lives to God as an offering He really likes.

5:3-6 The opposite of love is self-centered behavior, indulging our desires for power, pleasure, and possessions, independently of God. This is also known as sin, which is bad (in case you haven't been paying attention). Sin leads to death, and loss of dominion/glory. So we're faced with a choice: go for the temporal success/significance and security/safety (subsets of power), and immediate but unsatisfying pleasure, and corroding outdated possessions, or go for the eternal delights of God, at whose hands are pleasures forevermore. Only a demonically deluded worldling would chose the former over the latter.

Sexual immorality, defiling uncleaness, and covetousness, the insatiable desire for more (all three of which we are commanded to put to death -Co 3:5) should not be present in the lives of holy believers. Nor should improper speech: obscenities, foolish (literally moronic) talk, nor coarse jesting be heard, but instead the edifying giving of thanks. Paul uses a word play in Greek contrasting the jesting with the thanks, so refined jesting is OK :)

Know for certain that bad believers lose their reward/inheritance (see comments on 1Cor 3:15 if you have any doubt). Paul repeats the items in verse 3 and adds that covetousness is idolatry. When someone looks to things (and the means of things, like a job or wealthy spouse) to meet one's needs, rather than God, they are an idolater. If one spends all their time serving a paycheck rather than depending on God for their daily bread, and doing His will in all things, one is setting themselves up for inevitable judgment. Did you notice how God felt about idolaters in the OT? Bad unsanctified believers will not have an inheritance in the future Kingdom of the Messiah. Satan and his agents, the false teachers, will tell you otherwise, trying to deceive you with lies that contradict this truth. Here' s quick quiz to see if you're deceived:

Do bad things happen to bad believers, both now and in the future? (1Cor 11:29-32; 3:15)

Does how you live as a believer make a difference in your eternal reward? (Gal 5:21; 6:7-9; 1Cor 6:9; Rom 2:5-10 )

Are there differential rewards in the kingdom? (1Cor 15; 2Tim 4:7-8)

Does the wrath of God come upon God's naughty, disobedient children? (Rom 2:5-10; 5:9-10)

If you answered “No” to any of the above, you've been deceived. Note particularly verse 6, in an exegetical outline the point would read: The Reason (nuance) Paul can say that badly behaving believers lose their reward (VP/subject) is because God's wrath/judgment comes upon His disobedient children (complement). Paul is not talking about unbelievers, but born again members of God's family who have gone the way of the wayward prodigal son. Repentance is always an option. God always spares based upon it. It's never too late to turn around and do the right thing (unless you're lying in a coffin). It is also incorrect to say that if a believer engages in bad behavior that they're not a believer. This is an invention of well-meaning folks, who aren't seeing nor understanding the Scriptures clearly.

5:7-14 The conclusion (therefore) is that butterfly believers should not be fellow-partakers (used only elsewhere in 3:6 of being a sharer in the promised inheritance) of the deeds and discipline of the bad believers. Butterfly believers were once darkness but now they are light (in union with the Lord). Notice the fundamental change of identity (not in the dark, but darkness; the essential quality has changed to light), therefore they should walk as light, shining wherever they go. That means, live as someone born of the light (all shiny and radiant like a sunbeam). The Spirit, as the energy source of God, gives the light, which manifests itself as the fruit of righteousness, goodness, and truth. Those should be the things that characterize and flow from us, as we demonstrate in our lives what is pleasing to the Lord. Remember righteousness is knowing and doing what is right in His sight. Those who are light won't be participating in the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather the radiance of their lives (righteousness, goodness, truth) will expose/reprove the evil done by the sons of disobedience. Reprove means to expose by bringing to light. Both in word and deed, the children of light highlight the sin of those serving the dark side. Notice that the reproof is of the deeds of darkness (not the people who are darkness, the unbelievers). This is not about unbelievers, but about badly behaving believers, who are not living in the light.

The conclusion in verse 14 (and following) is still about believers. The quotation is probably from a hymn based upon Isaiah 60:1-5, which is in the context of the Messiah giving glory to His people which will shine on Gentiles and kings. It is an exhortation to believers living in the dark to wake up from their sluggardly slumber, arise out of their dead, dominionless state, and bask in the glory of the ascended Messiah.

5:15-21 In light of the Messiah coming and giving light to His faithful people, believers need to be very careful how they walk/live. The difference between the wise and fools is in their choice of objectives. The fools go after what they think is right in their sight; wise chose to go after what is right in God's sight. Proverbs gives wisdom by marking out the right objectives, and the right means of obtaining them (by showing consequences of actions). The fools don't understand what God's will is. The wise are careful to know and do it. The fools squander their precious hours on earth in stupid pursuits. The wise exchange their perishable time on earth (which they can't keep) for that which is infinitely more valuable, the eternal glory of God. That's why Paul uses the metaphor redeeming (buy back) the time, exchanging it for the reward of God. Note that the will of God is knowable and doable. Fools don't know or do it. Righteous and wise men and women know and do what is right in God's sight.

The major means of knowing God's will is His word, as revealed by His Spirit (see The Will of God on Truthbase.net). A person who is full of wine does not have an accurate perception of reality. They tend to say and do crazy things, because the wine controls them. The word is variously translated as excess, or dissipation or debauchery. Literally it means “not savers” or unrestrained in behavior and use of money. Someone could not be considered for eldership if their children were open to this charge (Titus 1:6), because it demonstrated they had not passed on a Spirit-controlled lifestyle. People spend on their temporal pleasures and escape from their pain because they have not found pleasure in God. Eventually they become controlled by their “drug” of escapism, and enslaved to it. That's why Paul uses the contrast of being filled or controlled by the Holy Spirit, rather than wine. The pagan worshipers of Bacchus/Dionysus, the god of wine, would become under his influence and engage in drunken behavior, including the same riotous speech and singing one hears in NYC when the bars close and the drunks stumble homeward. In contrast, Paul gives four results of being filled with the Spirit:

• believers would speak to each other (cf 4:15,25) in ways that edified;
• believers would sing to the Lord with psalms and hymns, making melody (a word used for plucking the strings of a harp) with their heart to Him. This could be used to support the use of musical instruments in the NT since the singing wasn't silent, neither would the melody making be (in/with your heart can mean wholeheartedly as in 6:5);
• believers would give thanks to the Father for all things, recognizing not only all He has given them, but also seeing His hand in all that He permitted in their lives for their benefit (even if they don't see or like it initially);
• believers would submit to one another (there's another of those passages) in the fear of God, recognizing that they will appear before Christ's judgment seat to be evaluated on the basis of how they have fitted into and fulfilled their function in His Body.

This last item is the capstone of Body life, followed by a parenthetical statement concerning hierarchical relationships in the Body, and then the final words about how the Body defends itself against Satan's attacks. Submission literally means to “line up under.” Think of a military unit, arranged in a defense formation (which is what the warfare passage in chapter 6 is all about). Submission is not a statement about worth or value, but about relative position for a specific purpose. Someone who does their own independent thing, without reference to the Lord Christ's will, or other members of the Body, is not submitting to anyone. They should fear God, because He will not be pleased with their sin. Being rightly related to others means limiting oneself for their needs/benefit, not using them to meet our needs (which should be met by our dependent relationship with God, so we're free to serve others). See the study “The S-word Submission” on Truthbase.net for more. Also see the Study Guide to Church (and the upcoming Catacomb Church blog) for how the commitment to be a Biblical body by submitting to the other members, and the oversight of Biblically qualified elders, is what constitutes a Biblical church.

5:22-33 Having just said that Spirit-filled believers are submitted to other members of the Body, the question arises: “Does that mean that there are no hierarchical relationships in the Body of Christ?” Paul address three pairs of relationships, showing that there is still a hierarchy. This is not how “mutual submission” works out. That understanding might be well intentioned, but is flat out wrong. Among believers in a church, there is not only submission to one another, but also elders (Acts 20:28 -overseers; 1Cor 16:16; 1Pt 5:1; Heb 13:7,17). Mutual submission in the Body is not people demanding that others submit to them, but everyone seeking to serve and support and line themselves up under the needs of others. The elders in their functions of shepherds and overseers could resolve differences that might arise from those submitting to each other. However, in three sets of relationships there is a clear authority, and a clear mandate to submit to that authority. The hierarchy can't be flipped around in a mutual sense, but each party in the relationship has responsibilities to the other, particularly in a marriage, where Paul spends the most words. See the resources on Marriage and Family Life on Truthbase.net which will develop the truth more fully than I can do here.

Note that the “subordinate” member of each pair is addressed first. Wives are instructed to submit, or line up under the authority of the husbands. In Colossians 3:18 and 1Peter 3:1 there is no mention of mutual submission. Paul says the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church. Two headed marriages aren't a pretty sight. Christ is the head because He sacrificed Himself for the salvation of the Body. So just as the church is subject to Christ (again not a mutual submission thing), so wives should be subject to their husbands in everything (Really? Yup, that's what it says in English and Greek). What if the wife has greater expertise is an area? The wise husband, like a wise CEO or military commander will seek input and deploy resources for maximum corporate gain, because there are usually better and brighter folks under their command, but the final decision responsibility lies with the leadership of an organization. (“In everything?" Yup, that's what is says.)

So does that mean that king hubby gets whatever he wants? No, not if verse 25 is in your Bible. Husbands are to self-sacrificially (agapao) love their wives, doing that is in their best interest at the expense of their interests, desires, preferences, and sleeping in on weekends. Who got the better deal: Christ or the church? Who suffered and died for the benefit of the other and lives to sanctify and glorify the the other? Christ lives to sanctify the church, by the application of the word, so that it might be holy and without blemish in the day of judgment so the members of His body may share in His glory and rule in the Millennial kingdom. In this way He benefits as the church is benefited. Similarly, husbands love, nourish and cherish their wives, as they would their own bodies, for the benefit of the wife, and the husband shares in the glory of a glorious wife. Just like the church has a relationship with Christ that can be described as His flesh and bones (no one takes this literally by the way), so the husband has a mutually edifying relationship with his wife. Paul references Genesis 2:24, the definitive passage on marriage (as Jesus did in Mt 19:5), to show how the interconnectedness of the two. See Truthbase.net for more on the mystery of marriage. Marriage should reflect the essential unity and functional diversity of the Triune God, as two become one, through the process of leaving prior identities (legal/social declaration) to become a new unit of husband and wife, and the inextricable emotional intertwining of souls (mind/values/emotions/will) to become one new body. Paul says this is a mystery, but his focus is on the mystery (previously unrevealed information) concerning the church. However, he ends with a recap of the major responsibilities: the husband must love his wife as himself, and she must respect her husband (in the position God has placed him). See 1Peter 3 for what to do if you married a self-centered spiritual sloth.

Application: Glory-bound believers need to walk in love, as children of light, wisely doing God's will, controlled by the Spirit of God, and submitted to the Lord and His Body. Whew!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thanks that You called me out of darkness to be light; please guide me in living as You desire, living and loving as Jesus wants me to. Amen.

Ephesians 6 Spiritual Warfare

6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 "Honor your father and mother," which is the first commandment with a promise: 3 "that it may be well with you, and you may live long on the earth."

4 You fathers, don’t provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

5 Servants, be obedient to those who according to the flesh are your masters, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as to Christ; 6 not in the way of service only when eyes are on you, as men pleasers; but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; 7 with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men; 8 knowing that whatever good thing each one does, he will receive the same again from the Lord, whether he is bound or free.

9 You masters, do the same things to them, and give up threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality with him.

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world’s rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having the utility belt of truth buckled around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having fitted your feet with the preparation of the Good News of peace; 16 above all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints:

19 on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the Good News, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. 21 But that you also may know my affairs, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make known to you all things; 22 whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts. 23 Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love. Amen.

Observations: 6:1-4 The second pair of hierarchical relationships is that of children and parents. Children are to obey (listen under) their parents (not the other way around). A parent doesn't submit to their child by obeying them. Paul appeals to the first command with a specific promise attached to it (Ex 20:12). The moral law is still applicable. When the offspring is no longer a child, honor is still applicable (which is not doing everything the parents wants, especially if you have two sets of unbelieving parents meddling in their kids' marriage). Honor involves respect and listening, and accommodating preferences in the grand scheme of other responsibilities. Sometimes to follow Christ people would have to leave their parents and not accede to their wishes (Mt 19:29). Parents, fathers in particular have a responsibility to their children, to nurture them in the discipline/training and instruction of the Lord. They are really the Lord's kids, on loan to parents, from whom God will demand an accounting of their stewardship. Provoking a child to wrath occurs from inconsistent, self-centered, whatever's convenient discipline/training. The standards and rules change for the parent's sole benefit, not the child's, and this kind of corrupt authority causes rebellion. Why would a kid rebel against a perfect authority? True, we rebel against God, but in general, if the parents are blameless and love their kids, it is tougher for Satan to deceive the child into thinking the grass is greener on the dark side. Actually, it's the job of the parent to sell the child on the light, both by practice and precept (that means practice what you preach, and make sure you're teaching according to Dt 6:5-7). There a bunches of resources on Truthbase.net; learn them and use them. An ounce of prevention is worth a ton of heartbreak. By the way, a child learns submission by observing how their mother submits to her husband. What's really more important to you than the spiritual success of your children? Being part of a Biblical Body with like-minded parents committed to raising the next godly generation is a great help, but no substitute for the parents learning the truth, living the truth, and loving their children with it.

6:5-9 Servants are to be obedient to their masters in the flesh, as if they were serving Christ. Masters were to treat their slaves/servants knowing that they too would face the judgment seat of Christ for how they treated those under their authority. When the claims of the master conflicted with the claims of Christ, it was time to suffer for doing what was right in God's sight (see 1Peter 2:18). If you're not a slave, even though you might be treated like one, there is nothing in the Bible that says you have to stay in the job, but there are usually some great character building lessons and dependence to be developed in the furnace of the workplace. If you are going to stay in a job, do it wholeheartedly, or find another one. God will reward you with a greater inheritance in His kingdom for the right behavior on the job (Col 3:24). Worshiping your job, and drawing your worth and value from what it provides, is tantamount to idolatry, and God will judge idolaters with no inheritance in the eternal kingdom. You've given your life to Christ, and to your spouse (if you've married), and to raising your kids, (if you have them), and to being connected to a Biblical Body, so you can't give your life to your job and be disloyal to your other commitments. See TOYL for a Biblical View of Work and other resources to help manage multiple priorities and commitments.

6:10-18 Having concluded the parenthetical section occasioned by the climactic call for mutual submission of Body member to each other in fear of the Lord, Paul now directs his instruction to corporate spiritual warfare. According to the purpose of God, and the work of Christ, the Holy Spirit constituted the assembly of believers into the Body of Christ, under His headship. Thus they became the temple in which God's glory could be manifested to the world, in this age as they live in unity, and in the age to come as He pours out the blessing of His glory upon them. For reasons discussed briefly under Digging Deeper in the post on 2Corinthians 5, Satan doesn't want that unity to be maintained and will do everything in his devious power to disrupt it (as church history so sadly demonstrates). The battle the church faces is not against flesh and blood, although many of Satan's agents are humans taken captive to do his will, but our real battle is against the demonic forces of Satan, who controls individuals, rulers, and governments (ie, Assyria, Babylon, according to God's purposes) in this age. The warfare Paul describes in this chapter is corporate, not individual. See Truthbase.net for the series on individual Defense Against the Dark Arts . Listen to The Real Battle of Spiritual Warfare for the exposition of this passage (outline below under Digging Deeper).

Satan's goal is to destroy the temple so God's glory won't be displayed, nor given to faithful saints. So the corrective is to stand in unity, and having done all, to stand. Stand is mentioned four times. The emphasis is defensive maintenance. It's not about charging the gates of hell with a water pistol, which is a good way to become toast, but about the most successful military strategy known in the ancient world, the phalanx. A single well-trained array of hoplites, or foot-soldiers, in tight formation could stand against an invading horde, and win. Each one stood firm next to his fellow soldier, and the individuals worked as a unit to repel the attackers. If they broke ranks or separated they would become vulture food. The weapons Paul describes are defensive, with the exception of the sword. Satan largely deploys lies to do his dirty work, so truth is the best defense (the basic belt upon which the rest of the armor hangs) and the best offense, (the sword of the Spirit is the word of God). Each of the pieces of armor was referred to earlier in the book, and are truths about the formation of the Body as the temple of God.

Attached to the belt of truth was the breastplate of righteousness (protecting their heart) which is the righteous conduct of a renewed mind (4:21-24), which would engage in other-centered rather than self-centered behavior.

The studded boots that enabled them to stand their ground was the gospel of peace, that Jews and Gentiles are now one, effectively nullifying the lies that would cause the two groups to become factions, splitting the temple.

The shield of faith enabled them to tap into the supernatural power of God to live in love.

The helmet of salvation, which protects their thinking is clarified in 1Thess 5:8 as the hope of salvation, emphasizing the glorification aspect. See the elaboration of each piece under Digging Deeper. The missing piece of equipment was the greaves or knee pads, which are alluded to in the weapon of praying for the saints according to the promptings of the Spirit.

As the Body puts on the truth, and keeps it protecting them, the attacks of Satan can't harm them and they will stand, and succeed.

6:19-24 Paul segues from instructing them to pray for each other to asking for prayer for himself that he might boldly proclaim the revelation of the good news, even though he is imprisoned for doing so. He sends Tychicus a faithful servant to encourage them, so they can also know how Paul is doing and encourage him (hint, hint). Paul wishes them peace (probably more harmony than the usual covenantal blessing), and continued manifestation of love and faith, the things God desires of them. He then expresses a desire for those who are loyal to the Lord Jesus the Messiah, with an incorruptible love, to have the blessing of grace in His kingdom.

Application: Believers need to draw on God's strength and truth to live in unity and withstand the onslaughts of Satan; doing things independently is certain death (loss of dominion).

Prayer: God, thanks that You always provide all I need to do Your will; thanks for like-minded believers, who are intent on loyally loving You. Amen.

Digging Deeper

Ephesians 6:10-18 The Real Battle of Spiritual Warfare

I. The Ephesian (local) church was created by God to bring Himself glory as believers walked worthy of their calling in truth-based unity and love. (Temple motif 2:21)

Ac 20:17 From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called for the elders of the church….28 "Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29 "For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 "Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. 31 "Therefore watch…

1Tim 1:3…remain in Ephesus that you may charge some that they teach no other doctrine

? Ephesus was the best taught church in the NT. Did that ensure that Christ was pleased with it? If not, why not? (Rev 2:1ff)

II. Our Enemy, the Devil (demons) seeks to undermine God-glorifying Unity through deception and lies.

6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

? How does an individual believer obey the command to put on the armor? Are you dressed for battle or the beach?

III. Our Responsibility is to use God’s armor (and draw on His strength) to combat and STAND in Unity

13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

We stand in unity and combat Satan by Learning, Living, and Loving others with the Truth. Our understanding and use of each piece of armor must first come from Paul’s use of it in the previous verses of Ephesians, describing truth about the nature of the Body and how our beliefs and actions must be in accord with that corporate truth. The question to ask and answer is how does each piece of armor protect or defend against Satan’s attempts to destroy unity. The individual believer must then act in accord with that understanding to accomplish God’s purposes and glory.

? Why the emphasis on standing? Why not charge the gates of hell with a water pistol and rescue/save the inhabitants?

A. TRUTH 14a Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth,

1:13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,

4:15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head----Christ----

4:21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

4:25 Therefore, putting away lying, "Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor," for we are members of one another.

A. W. Pink states that Satan's chief aim is to estrange man's heart from God and his work consists of substituting his own lies in the place of divine truth…spiritual warfare occurs in the mind, and it is the mental reckoning or reasoning that results in a choice between God's Word and Satan's lie, although at the time we may not recognize the alternative offered to be a lie or from Satan. http://www.path-light.com/warfarelesson.htm

? Why is Truth so important? With what specific Truth must one gird themselves? How do you do that? What truths relate to unity?

B. RIGHTEOUSNESS 14b having put on the breastplate of righteousness,

4:21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,

4:24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

5:9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.

Jas 4:7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

2Tim 2: 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

? How does personal righteousness relate to corporate unity? How does an ignored conscience open us up to Satan? What’s key to 4:24?

C. Gospel of PEACE 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

2:14 For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one…15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace,

2:17 And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near.

3:6 that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel,

4:3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 1:2; 6:23

? How do/should you obey Eph 4:3? How does the gospel of peace relate to unity? What lies does Satan pander re: peace?

D. FAITH 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.

1:15 Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints,

1:19 and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power

2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,

3:12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.

3:17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love,

4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 4:13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;

6:23 Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

? How does Satan throw darts? What effect do those darts have on unity? How does faith quench them? Faith in what?

E. SALVATION 17a And take the helmet of salvation,

1:13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,

2:5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),

2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,

1Thess 5:8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.

I Pt 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.

? How do the different aspects of salvation relate to the battle for maintaining unity? How do you put the helmet of salvation?

F. WORD 17b and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;

5:26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, Jn 17:17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

Mt 4:4 But He answered and said, "It is written, `Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" 7 Jesus said to him, "It is written again, `You shall not tempt the LORD your God.'" 10 Then Jesus said to him, "Away with you, Satan! For it is written, `You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.'"

Heb 4:12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

John 8:31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

? How does one use the word of God against Satan? How do you gain the skill to use it?

G. PRAYER 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints----

1:16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers:

3:16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height----19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,

21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

? What did Paul pray for the Ephesians? How do those things relate to unity?

? What other things did believers pray for other believers in the Bible? What role does discernment play in prayer?

God in a nutshell: God gives us the resources to accomplish His will, and expects us to do it.

Build-a-Jesus: Jesus is our Lord, who gave Himself for us, so we could give ourselves to Him.

Us in a nutshell: We need to live in love, walk in wisdom, and wage war with the weapons God had provided. Submission to a Biblical Body is a result of being filled with the Holy Spirit, as is submission in the other realms God specified.

Where to Go for More:

Truthbase.net