Money Changers In the Temple
Scripture List
Matthew – 4:9
5:3,6,9-12,17,18,27+28
6:33
7:11,15+16
9:16
10:7,8,38+39
12:34
13:15+16
15:8+9
16:24+25
17:50+51
18:3+4
19:21
20:22,25-28
22:37+39
23:23+24
25:31,32,34+45
Scriptures referred to, but not written –
Matt. 6:9-13
26:57-68
Mark – 7:18,19+21
9:23+41
13:34-37
16:15
Scriptures referred to but not written -
Mark 8:34
Luke – 1:78+79
2;32
4:4+18
8:11,12+15
9:1+2
12:16-40
13:24+25
17:33
24:27,44+45
John - 1:1-3+29
2:13-17
4:34
5:43+44
6:44+63
7:16
8:12,31,32+36
10:1-18
12:49
13:13-15,34+35
14:12+26
15:3,12-15+26
16:7,13+14
17:9-11,16,17 +21
18:11
19:9,28-30
Acts - 2:44+45
8:12
9:15
15:1,2,24-31
17:24
20:28-31
26:5
Scriptures referred to but not written -
Acts - 15;3-21
Romans – 3:19-21
4:1-5,11,14-16
5:13+18
6:9-14+16
7:14
8:6,13,17,18,28+32
10:4,14+15
11:1+6
12:1+2
13:12+14
14:19
15:2-7
1 Corinthians -
1:11-13,25-31
2:2,4+5
3:4-7,9,16,17,20-23
4:1
6:11,19+20
7:23
8:1
9:1,7-15,17+18
10:13
12:12-14,18-27
14:12+26
15:3+4
Scripture referred to but not written -
1 Corinthians 13:8-13
2 Corinthians -
1:5
3:6-8,10-17
5:17+20
6:1-13+16
9:8-11
11:13-15
Galatians -
2:16,21
3:1-4,7-14,16-18,27-29
4:24
5:1,4,16,22-25
6:2
Ephesians -
2:1-6,8,9,14,15,18-22
3:14-19
4:8,11-16,24+29
5:25+26
6:11-13,19+20
Philippians -
1:6
2:3,4,7,12+13
4:4,6-9,11-13
Colossians -
1:16-19,23-25
2:13-17+23
3:1,2,8-14
1Thessalonians -
2:19+20
5:17+19
2Thessalonians -
3;6
1Timothy -
1:15+16
2:5+6
6:6-8
2Timothy -
1:7+8
2:12+15
3:5-7,+12
4:3+4
Titus - 3:4-6
Hebrews -
4:1,2,11,12,15+16
7:1,3-14,20-28
8:6-8
9:13,14,16,17,21-26+28
10:1,4-7,19-23
11:11-14,16,24-27,35-39
12:2
13:5,6,15-21
James – I:25
2:10+12
4:7+8
5:10+11
1Peter – 1:23
2:2-5,9,10,21-23
3:3+4
4:1
5:1-9
2Peter - 2:7+8
1John - 1:7-9
3:10,14,16-18
4:8
17:18
Revelation -
1:5+6
5:5
Genesis -
1:26+27
3:13,15,18,
12:3+13
14:10,12-24
17:5+16
19:4,5,7,8,15,16,24+25
21:5
25:26
35:10
49:28
Scriptures referred tp but not written -
12:1
3:12
17:10-14+19
19:9-11
21:2-4
Exodus – 16:15-21
24:12
29:4
31:18
Scriptures referred to but not written -
12:22+23
25:2
26:31-34
28:1,29,30,38+43
29:1-46
31:17
34:32-35
39:41
Leviticus -
27:30+32
Scriptures referred to but not written -
1:1-17
10:1-5
16:1-3,23+28
26:12
27:30+32
Numbers -
18:2,21+29
Scriptures referred to but not written
1:52
3:5-9,12,32,39-49
8:15,22-66
14:22+23
18:20-32
25:10
26:64+65
Deuteronomy -
6:4
14:28+29
27:26
Joshua -
18:7
1Samuel – Scriptures referred to but not written -
8:1-7
18:11-18
2Samuel – Scriptures referred to but not written -
7:8-16
1Chronicles – Scriptures referred to but not written -
6:48
2Chronicles – Scriptures referred to but not written -
13:9+10
23:6
30:27
31:2
35:3-18
Psalms – 23:5
24:1
34:8
50:10
51:15-17
84:11+12
95:7
110:4
119:103
121:2
124:8
127:1
139:14
Scriptures referred to but not written -
76:1+2
Proverbs -
3:5+6
Isaiah – 55:10+11
Scriptures referred to but not written -
9:6-8
Daniel – Scripture referred to but not written -
chapter three
Malachi -
1:1
2:1
3:6,8-10
Scriptures referred to but not written -
3:11
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
The Support of the New Testament Priesthood Chapter Twenety
Chapter 20
The Support of the New Testament Priesthood
Giving should be a natural part of the Christian life. If God, who is love, is in us, then love should be apparent in our lives. When we love someone, we care about what happens to them, and it pleases us to see them happy. Love is usually expressed through giving in one way or another.
Matt.22:37 Jesus said into him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind
.
Then in verse 39 Jesus said – “ ... Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”
The word 'heart' in verse 37, is, in the Greek, kardia, kar-dee'-ah; and includes in it's meanings, (fig.) the thoughts or feelings (mind); while the word 'mind' is dianoia, dee-an'-oy-ah; “deep thought, prop. the faculty (mind or it's disposition), by impl. it's exercise, imagination, mind, understanding. (Strong's).
Disposition means (Webster's), - a persons way of acting toward others, or thinking about things.
To love God as he wants us to, our love would be a part of our thoughts and feelings, as expressed in the meaning of the word 'heart', but it would be more than something we think about only when our emotions are stirred. Our love would be a part of our deep thoughts. It would be something we had made a decision on and acted on, to the point that it had become a real and obvious part of our disposition. Our Lord didn't just tell us to love from our heart, mind and soul. He said to love with 'all', that is, the whole, or the entire amount, of our heart, mind and soul. Then also to love our neighbor the way we love ourselves. If we do this, then giving will not be a problem.
When we come to see our Lord as the provider of all we need, we will not be afraid to give to those he has died for. And once again, if we take up our cross and follow Jesus, we will not be living selfish lives.
So then, it is Jesus who is love, who remains the foundation of our entire lives. Any doctrine we hold should be able to sit securely on this foundation. The same one who said,
Matt. 10:8 “ ... freely ye have received, freely give.”, also said to one man, Matt.19:21 “ ... If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.”
Notice that before we give freely, we receive freely. We first need to see all that we have, mental, physical, and spiritual provision, as being given to us by God – freely.
Jesus had told them in the same verse to “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils ...” Such things can only be given when they are first received from God. Jesus did not tell the young man to sell what he had and bring it to Jesus to help him and his disciples to be able to travel around doing their ministry. He told him that if he would be perfect (complete [Strong's]), to sell what he and and give to the poor.
His ministry was to the poor and needy. Don't you think we should consider God's attitude as seen in scripture, if it is God who we are to please?
Jesus taught the same thing in the verse in Luke that we went over earlier.
Luke 12:33+34 “Sell what ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens, that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
I don't think the purpose of these verses is to say that it is wrong to have any material things at all. But it shows us that our goal should not be to heap up more and more for ourselves. When our needs are met and there is any more than this, we have enough to help others with. Being willing to sacrifice for others is a Godly attitude. If our source of all provision is our loving Father God, then we know we can give to his children and he will always take care of us.
If you are a person looking for an excuse not to give, then you are a person with a heart problem. If you are looking for a clearly written law on how much you should give and how often, so this law can guide your life, then you too have a heart need. Remember, Jesus gave his all; his very life.
Gal. 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
If we learn to keep our focus on Jesus and his kingdom, and learn to walk In his Spirit, he will guide our financial giving, as well as every aspect of our lives. We really can trust him for this.
Col. 3:1+2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on earth.
While we will not cover all scripture that speak of giving, I think it should be sufficient to understand the attitude and teaching of Christ himself, so that we can consider this any time we read scripture on this subject. God does not change his heart of his opinion from chapter to chapter. So let's look at some scripture to help where there may be some questions as to meaning or possible misunderstanding as to God's will. First of all set's go to 1 Corinthians, where Paul addresses the issue of support for ministers.
1 Cor. 9:7+8 Who goeth a warfare at any time at his own charges? Who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? Or who feedeth a flock , and eateth not of the milk of the flock?
8 Say I these things as a man or saith not the law the same also?
The word 'charges' in the Greek is the word opsonion, op-so'-nee-on; “rations for a soldier, that is (by extens.) his stipen or pay:-wages. (Strong's)
What man serves as a soldier and does not receive at least the basic necessities of life? When a soldier goes to war, he is provided food and clothing. He doesn't have to concern himself with these things, only with doing his job. And a man whose job is to care for a vineyard, is not considered a thief when he eats some of the fruit. Nor is a man who is hired to feed and care for a flock, considered a thief if he drinks some of the milk they produce.
Even in the Law of Moses there was provision made for animals that worked and served man, such as oxen that worked the fields.
1 Cor. 9:9-11 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God care for oxen? (see Dt. 25;4)
10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should be partaker of his hope.
11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap of your carnal things?
When animals labored in fields, they were allowed to share in what grew there. They were to be allowed to eat what was growing as they went along.
Paul believed that this was put into the law to serve as an example to us. The man who works serving others should work in hope. The Greek word for 'hope' is elpis, el-pece; “(to anticipate, usually with pleasure); expectation (abstr. or concr.) or confidence – faith, hope.” (Strong's)
A man who plows a field should anticipate and expect a crop, and the ox that treads out the grain should be able to enjoy part of the grain that he worked to produce. Paul asked if it was a great thing for he and the others who had sown spiritual things, to reap, or take in some of their carnal (temporal [Strong's[) things.
We've already learned that to be a minister of the people, is to be a servant, so let me then ask this question for you to consider. If you were to have a servant who served you night and day, where would you expect him to get food, shelter and clothing? The answer is obvious. These things come to a servant from the one he serves, or at least the finances to get them with.
So then if any man or woman of God spends his or her time ministering to you in the things of God, you should be willing to to help meet his physical needs in whatever way you are able and as God leads you to do. This seems simple enough to understand. If a man takes time from which he could be earning a wage, to be with you, helping you spiritually, should it not be in your heart to see that his needs are met as much as you are able, within reason, if, after all, you love your neighbor as yourself?
Paul did not stop there, however. He had more to say about ministers and their needs.
1Cor. 9:12-15 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
13 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? And they which wait at the alter are partakers with the alter?
14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
15 But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things that it should be done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that man should make my glorying void.
The Greek word for 'power' in verse 12, is exousia. ex-oo-see'-ah; (Strong's) and the Lexicon gives this meaning, “power of choice, liberty of doing as one pleases; leave or permission.”
The word 'rather' is mallon, mal'-on; “(adv.) more (in a greater degree) or rather ...
Partakers is the Greek word metecho, met-ekh'-o; (Strong's) and the Lexicon gives this meaning, “have rightly restores in hopes of partaking (of the harvest); with a gen. of the thing added.
So Paul seems to be pointing out that if others have exercised the privilege of sharing their material things, after, or while, ministering spiritual things, is he not privileged, or free to do so even more? This he probably said comparing how much more he had served them than what others had done.
Now as Paul was pointing out these things in the scripture, wouldn't this have been a perfect time and appropriate place to have explained to the Corinthian people, how that tithing was the designate means for this provision of ministers, if indeed, it were in the New Covenant? But Paul never once mentioned it. He did, however go on to say, that even though he had the right to share their provisions, he actually behaved in an opposite manner and did so for a very important reason.
Paul was wise enough to realize that if he used the privilege that he was speaking of, there was a very real possibility of the gospel being hindered. Even today accusations can be heard about gospel ministers being in the ministry for money. I'm quite sure there are such hirelings too. People make comments about preachers asking for money or misusing money etc.
Consider too, that if the law of tithing had been in effect and Paul refused to take it, wouldn't he have been sinning himself and also hindering the people's obedience? Or if tithing was still a law, shouldn't Paul have told them who to give it to, if he himself was unwilling to take it, so they would know how to go about keeping the law? But he gave no instructions concerning tithes, whatsoever.
What Paul did say was that God had ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. In the Greek the word for 'ordained' is diatasso, dee-at-as'-so; “to arrange thoroughly, that is, institute, prescribe, et., - appoint, command, give (set in) order, ordain.” (Strong's)
I do not think Paul would have willingly or knowingly, gone against a command of God. God had arranged for ministers to have the freedom to share the provisions, or material goods, of the people whom they served. God had set in order, that the people would provide for their ministers. It was and is a good thing.
However, this was a privilege that a minister had the freedom to use or refuse, as Paul did. Paul was under grace. This was a heart matter. The attitude of willingness to meet the minister's needs should have been an inclusive part of loving your brother as yourself, and laying up treasures in heaven. This should have been an automatic outworking of love. What kind of a person would let someone work for him even for one day for no pay, and not even offer him food or drink?
God has instituted, even by the coming of his Spirit to dwell in our hearts in love, that one who serves God's little children, in the Word of truth, will be cared for properly by his brothers. Yet if these servants know who their provider is, they can know that even if men fail them, God will not!
Paul lived in the New Covenant and the grace of God. He was free to say “thank you, but no thank you.” God will judge the man tho is willing to take and not give. He will not judge him by Mosaic Law, or monetary percentage, but by the attitude of his heart and his obedience to the voice of God.
Notice what Paul said in the very first verse of this chapter.
1 Cor. 9:1 Am I not an apostle? Am I not free?
The Greek word for 'free' is eleutheros, el-yoo-ther-os; (to go at pleasure), that is, (as a citizen), not a slave (whether free born or manumitted), or (gen.) exempt (from obligation or liability); free (man, woman) at liberty. (Strong's)
Paul was free from religious bondage. He served God out of his free will.
John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free ye shall be free indeed.
And Paul said this in Galatians -
Gal. 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Paul did not neglect to give instructions on providing because he did not know the Old Law. He knew the Law well. For he himself was, not only an Israelite, but he was also a Pharisee. He told this in scripture.
Rom. 11:1 “ .. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.
Acts 26:5 “ ... after the most straitest sect of religion I lived a Pharisee.”
Paul understood the Law and that Christ had ended it. Going back to 1 Cor. 9, look at what he said at verse 18.
18 What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I make the gospel of Christ without charge. That I abuse not my power in the gospel.
He had already said in verse 17, “For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward ...”
Praise the Lord! Paul could freely give to the people, what he had freely received from God, and expect to freely be provided for! He did not have to charge for what he gave!
The word 'charge' in the Greek is adapanos, ad-ap'-an-os; “costless, that is, gratuitous:- without expense.” (Strong's)Gratuitous means “Given without charge; free, not required by the circumstances, unjustified ...” (Webster's)
By his attitude, Paul freed the people to do whatever they did from willing hearts. We are told in Hebrews 4:12, speaking of the Word of God, -
“ .. and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Now Paul , who set the example for the Gentiles, and the ministers who would follow after him, had times of plenty and times of little. But, he like Abraham and Moses, had his eye on eternal things. He looked for an eternal reward.
Paul speaking) Phil. 4:12+13 I know both how to be abased and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.
This man even showed the attitude that should be had in the difficult times. He always followed God's instructions, even though at times, that meant doing withou. But he was never without strength from God. He didn't consider suffering a bad thing. He spoke of it this way in Timothy.
2 Tim. 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he will also deny us.
It is not uncommon today for people to judge their spirituality by how they are doing financially. But this is not at all what Paul taught. You see, if you live godly in Christ, but hard times come, you must not deny that God is still in control, for to do so is to deny yourself his strength and his help to bring you through. As Paul knew so well and said in Timothy
.
2 Tim. 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
Difficulties are not always a sign of being out of God;s will. Even if people didn't always support Paul as they should have, this did not mean that Paul was out of God's will. Instead those were the times he could be an example of faith, patience, longsuffering and unmerited love, etc.
Rom. 8:17+18 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified together.
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
So Paul taught the people who gave out bountifully, or in a large way, that is how they would reap. He spoke this concerning the issue of 'ministering to the saints'. The saints are all those who have been washed in the blood of Jesus and have made him lord of their lives. So this applies to ministers as well as to any saint of God.
Whether the reaping came in this life or the next, it would come, and Paul preferred it to be in the next, in his case.
1John 3:16-18 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
17 But whoso hath this worlds goods, and seeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
2 Cor. 9:8-11 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye always having all sufficiency I all things, may abound to every good work:
9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad, he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth forever.
10 Now he that misistereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your own seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
11 Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
And again Paul spoke of who the provider really is. It is God who has the ability to make 'all' grace abound toward us.
'Grace' in the Greek is charis, khar'-ece; “graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstr. Or concr.; lit. or fig. or spiritual; especially the divine influence on the heart, and its' reflection in the life; including gratitude): ...” (Strong's)
The grace of God is a divine influence on our heart. Looking at this truth and considering the Greek word for sufficiency, we can learn a great lesson.
'Sufficiency' in Greek is autarkeia, ow-tar'-ki-ah; “self-satisfaction, that is, (abstr.) contentedness, or (concr.) a competence: contentment, sufficiency.” (Strong's)
Competence means, “State of being competent, adequacy.” (Webster's)
We can say then, that God, by grace, that divine influence upon the heart, can cause you to be self-satisfied, and content in everything, so that you can abound in every good work.
We tend to think of sufficiency as the state of having enough. And when we see the word competence meaning adequacy, then we might say we are content when we have enough. But then, what is enough? Paul, who said he knew how to abound and to suffer need, also said this in Philippians and Timothy.
Phil. 4:11 “ ... I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
1 Tim.6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
The author of Hebrews had this to say -
Heb. 13:5+6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content WITH SUCH THINGS AS YE HAVE; for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (emphasis mine)
These scriptures may not please carnal man, but they show us that our contentment and satisfaction is not to depend on the abundance of material goods we do or do not posses. In fact, if we are clothed and fed, we should be content, and Paul was able to be content even when he was hungry.
Having the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, is having enough. He is the provider of all good things for us, and will meet our needs in time. This kind of contentment is available to us, through our source, even when we ourselves cannot muster it up. Our source is a source of plenty. God gives us his grace. He has an abundance of grace for us to tap into. It is that divine influence that can influence our hearts to be joyful and content in situations that would cause others to despair.
Once we are filled with this contentment from our God, we will be able to continue abounding in every good work, even in the hard times. When you are preoccupied with either worry or despair over what you don't have, you cannot reach out very well to minister to others.
God may, at times, give us an abundance of material goods, which we can use to help others. But there may be times when he does not. God is seen in our lives, when we are able to say boldly “God is my helper”, with a calm, trusting , and joyful heart, even when we have little. That is the time when we demonstrate faith in out true provider, who provides materially, but also mentally and emotionally, as well, and never lets us down. We know that we are neither dependent on man, nor do we fear him, for we know our God is in control, and is above all! We demonstrate those riches which money cannot buy, that come to us in our inner man. Peace, contentment, and joy, in absolutely all circumstances, are treasures from the one true and living God.
Our love relationship with our God can be so deep, strong and true, that its' warmth and intensity can be experienced in the darkest hours of our life, and even in death. So, our contentment should be based in our relationship with our God, and our trust in him and his heart. When we know, not only his ability, but his desire, and his promise to meet all of our needs, there remains nothing to fear. His presence alone brings satisfaction.
Our contentment should also be effected by our call and our determination to take up our cross and follow Christ. If we have made a choice to share even in his sufferings, why then complain? There is glory yet to be shared in eternity. The difficulties of this life are very temporary and eternity is not far away.
But what does it mean to be enriched in everything to all bountifulness?
'Bountifulness' in the Greek is, haploids, hap-lot'-ace; “singleness, that is, (subj.) sincerity (without dissimulation or self-seeking) or (obj.) generosity (copious bestowal: ...” (Strong's)
Copious means “Having or yielding an abundant supply ...” (Webster's)
The reason God would enrich them or make them wealthy, whether materially, financially or spiritually, was so that they could, in turn, give unselfishly, generously and even copiously, or, that is, in large amounts. The more God gives to you, the more you have to give to others, from the very heart of God, who is in you; a true heart of love, and from your own heart, which is becoming more and more like him.
See how God's heart and character comes shining through every subject and every doctrine in scripture? God does not change!
Mal. 3:6 “For I am the Lord, I change not ...”
He may change some things, and some circumstances, but his own character will not change! This we can count on! Jesus is a sure and stable foundation!
The God of the Old Testament,as well as the God of the New Testament, who are one in the same, has always wanted our dependency to be completely on him. This is why Jesus told us what he did in Matthew -
Matt. 18:3 Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven.
This truth needs to be grasped hold of by preachers and laymen alike.
These scriptures we have looked at so far, answer the questions of giving and receiving, of peace and contentment, and of what pleases the Lord. They are not restricted to either preachers or laymen. They are to all and how all of God;s children can do his will.
SO YOU WISH TO BE GREAT?
Well, Dear Reader, in God's eyes it doesn't come by obtaining a title or position, except for a correct position in Christ.
Matt. 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same shall be great in the kingdom of heaven.
Dear minister, here is the formula for greatness. Humble yourself as a child, and be dependent on HIM as a child is dependent on his Father. Stop looking at men and their obedience as your means of provision. Look to your Heavenly Father. Obey and trust your Father, and he will not let you down.
Ministers and laymen alike should study these scriptures carefully and prayerfully, and perhaps caring for each other would become more obvious and active, in the lives of God's people. Give up fear and walk in love, for God is love. Then watch how he blesses!
Paul, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, gave us a wealth of information, by which we can learn and grow. He wrote to the Corinthians, chapter 6, explanations of how ministers of the gospel are to live. If you want to know whether or not a particular minister is truly a man of God, or if you want to know how you, as a minister of the priesthood of God should live, read and study this chapter.
In the first verse Paul begins by beseeching the Corinthians. So let's begin by looking at the meaning of the word “beseech', so we can see what is going on at the very start. The Greek word for 'beseech' is parakaleo, par-ak-ao-eh'-0; (Strong's)
The meaning given in the Lexicon is “To admonish or exhort.” Admonish means “To ... notify of a fault: to reprove with mildness; to advise or exhort; to recall or urge to duty.” (Webster's)
Exhort means “To encourage; to recall or urge to duty.” (Webster's)
What Paul was about to say was very important. I believe he was urging them to duty, calling their attention, warning and advising the; all of these things. What he was about to say was not to be taken lightly, so he begins by 'beseeching' them.
2 Cor. 6:1 We then, as workers together with them, (Christ) beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (parenthesis mine)
Here is that word 'grace' again. We often think of grace as unearned favor, and indeed we have no t earned or deserved the blessings of God. But this is even more than God forgiving us when we didn't deserve it. As we've already seem this grace which we are to receive, has to do with divine influence on our hearts. But we have the ability to either listen with respect, or to quench the Spirit, so that what was given to us for our good, becomes of no use to us. If we do this, it is by our own choice, not God's.
1 Thes. 5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
The Greek for 'quench' is sbennumi, sbn'-noo-mee; “to extinguish (lit. or fig.): - go out, quench.” (Strong's)
The Lexicon gives the meaning, “ ... to no purpose”, for the word 'vain'.
If we receive the grace of God, then ignore that influence on our heart, and quench it, then we have received it in vain.
Now the next verse tells us why it is so important to allow the grace of God to do it's work in our lives,and to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
2 Cor. 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured (to aid or relieve [Strong's]) thee: behold now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation.) (added notation)
Dear child of God, today is the day to allow God to have his way in your heart and mind, yielding to the divine influence upon your heart, for today is the day of salvation. Today is the day to reach souls for God's kingdom and to reach them God's way, not our own way. Jesus will soon return. This is the day of salvation.
Now Paul tells us what to do and what not to do as ministers of the gospel. But to follow these instructions requires the work of grace in our lives.
2 Cor. 6:3+4 Giving no offense in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed.
4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
It is clear who Paul is speaking to in these verses, and how they should live. First he tells them to give 'no offense' in any thing. The Lexicon gives the definition for 'offense' as - “to do something which causes others to stumble, that is, leads them into error and sin.” This is important for the sake of the one who would be offended, but also that the ministry is not blamed.
How many times has someone been mistreated, and not only was the one who did the harm blamed, but also Christianity itself been accused of not working?
Now let's consider this word 'approving', since Paul says, “in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God”, and gives a list of areas to approve ourselves in. There is much truth in these verses that could serve to wipe away many erroneous ideas about the life in Christ, when it exemplifies the life of Christ himself.
The Greek word for 'approving' is sunistao, soon-is-tah'-o; or (strengthened) sunistano ... ; “to sit together, that is, (by impl.) introduce (favorably), (fig.) to exhibit; intrans. - to stand near, or (fig.) to constitute: - approve, commend, consist, make, stand (with): (Strong's)
The Lexicon says, “to set one with another, that is, by way of presenting or introducing him, that is, to commend.”
So we might say that Paul is laying out what the lives of ministers are to consist of. If you are to be a minister, these things should be the things in your life that commend you, or introduce you favorably as a true minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. These are the things to be exhibited in your life, so as to be easily recognized. It should not be, so much, your white collar that marks you as minister of God, but these things that are listed here in the scriptures.
Since 'minister' by its' definition, is a servant, then whether or not a man is a true servant of God, worthy of being supported solely by other Christians, can seen by the presence or absence of these particular behaviors.
If then, you want to be introduced favorably as a minister of God, exhibit Christ in these things, with patience.
Let's start with afflictions, which seems a very negative word. If you have been taught that children of God should never suffer affliction, this scripture definitely indicates differently. The Greek word for 'afflictions' includes such meanings as “pressure, anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble.”
Jesus had to deal with such things, but he still always glorified his Father, was victorious and never stopped loving. His people, who he sends forth as examples of himself on the earth, will have to deal with such things too. But they should, at the same time, demonstrate selfless love, and constant faith in the God of their salvation.They are to approve themselves also in necessities, which is the same word we looked at earlier. Even in times of need, Jesus should be seen in our lives.
Exhibit Christ in 'distresses' which the Lexicon says is “dire calamity, extreme affliction” WOW! Not only may we have to deal with afflictions, but perhaps even extreme affliction! However Christ is with us even then!
Exhibit him in 'imprisonments, in tumults, which the Lexicon says is “disturbances, disorders, of dissensions, of seditions.” Also in labours, meaning “intense labour united with trouble, toil,” (Lexicon), and Strong's Concordance defines it this way - “(by anal.) toil (as reducing the strength) ...”
This is not the end of the list, for Paul's list began at 2 Cor. 6:4 and went on and on for some time. But pause if you will, and reflect on these things. It is important to stay focused on what is being said. Ministers are being told to approve themselves as ministers of God, in all these things. Not just in preaching good sermons about these things. There is a big difference in talking about a thing and demonstrating the thing. When others see you 'in' these situations, they should see Christ in you.
HOW CAN THIS BE DONE?
1 John 3:10 In this the children of God are manifest ( ...to be plainly recognized or known [Lexicon]). and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.(added notation)
Now going back to 2 Corinthians chapter 6 -
If you are to be recognized as a minister of God, then God, who is love, must be seen in your life, even in such difficult times as Paul spoke of; not just heard about from your lips, or Christ will be misrepresented.
Notice that one of the things Paul named was labours (plural), meaning intense labor united with trouble.” (Strong's). If a minister has the idea that he is to minister, or sow spiritual things, but that he shouldn't do much physical work, what will he do with this scripture, or with Paul's example, who worked for the food he ate?
The word 'labours' is a plural word, indicating that this may be a situation that is repeated. But you see, when a minister can meet other men on their own level and experience that they go through, including their sufferings, yet demonstrate Christ, then what a witness he can be! Then others can see the reality that it can be done. Didn't Jesus himself experience life as a man had to live it? Did he not set us an example? Should his ministers do less?
Now let's go on to verse 5 and see some of the other things we are to approve ourselves in. “in watchings”, meaning sleeplessness, that is, keeping awake ...” (Strong's) Why would a minister experience sleeplessness? From sitting up late in study and prayer? Perhaps. Or perhaps sitting beside the bedside of a sick person, to comfort, show Jesus and intercede in prayer? Or perhaps listening to a broken heart and applying the healing balm of Jesus Christ, with compassion, the Word, and prayer? Or even doing spiritual warfare. Yes, the man of God is a servant.
Exhibit yourself as minister of God, in fastings. Now the meaning the Lexicon gives for this word, is very interesting - “a fasting to which one is driven by want” The meaning of the word 'want' as a noun, is “Absence or scarcity of something needed or desired; lack; the state of being in need; poverty; a desire for something.” (Webster's)
In verse 6, Paul begins telling us, not only what situations we should demonstrate Christ 'in', but also what it is seen 'by'.
“By pureness” which is “cleanness (the state), that is, (fig.) blamelessness: ... (Strong's)
“By knowledge”, which the Lexicon says is “the deeper, more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this religion, as belongs to the more advanced.”
“By longsuffering” which the Lexicon says is “patience, forbearance, long-suffering, slowness in avenging wrongs.”
“By kindness”, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned," which would be, “love that is undisguised” (Lexicon). If it is undisguised, then it is apparent.
“By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left.
“By honour,” which is “good opinion concerning one, and as resulting from that, praise, honour, glory.” (Lexicon)
“By dishonour”, which is, “dishonour, ignominy, disgrace.” (Lexicon)
Ignominy is “public disgrace; shame; etc. (Webster's)
“By evil report, and good report.”
“As deceivers and yet true.”
“As unknown and yet well known; as dying;” (which means, “I meet death daily, live daily in danger of death” [Lexicon]), and behold we live.”
“As chastened and not killed.” (my added notations)
Chastened means, according to the Lexicon, “ to chasten by the affliction of evils and calamities.” By this we may we learn much, but this doesn't kill us when God has a work for us to do.
“As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich, as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.”
What an amazing and awesome set of scriptures, outlining what is to be the life of a true and obvious minister of God! It may not agree with some modern day teachings and may not appeal to the flesh, but it is the Word of God, and it is magnificent! Such should be the life of each and every one of God's leaders! It is a powerful and noble life!
Such a life requires sacrifice, and so we do not easily find such lives in our day and time. It is a life in which persecutions, troubles and great difficulty are sometimes experienced but in which great power is experienced as well, and in which kindness, longsuffering, sincere love, and patience is always a part. It is a tremendously rich life!
Oh to find such role models as these for our children to see! Oh! To have true ministers of God, who do not paint pictures of glamor and self-indulgence for our youth, but rather point them to the greater riches of God, with their eternal value!
Dear Child of God, for which Christ gave his life, please do not be deceived by a doctrine that teaches you, that to suffer trouble or financial difficulty is always a result of your life not being right with God. Such a doctrine disagrees with God's Word. Certainly it is possible to face difficulties because a person has chose to go their own way and not God's, or because of making wrong decisions. But it is also possible to face hard times while walking in the will of God, as was the case for Jesus' disciples. If our heart is pure and we are surrendered to God, we need not fear. God will meet our needs in time and in his own way.
Remember that Moses chose the afflictions with the people of God, rather than the riches of Egypt. And look what Hebrews tells us of some of the people of faith.
Heb. 11:35-39 “ ... and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonments:
37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute (“to suffer want” [Lexicon]), afflicted, tormented;
38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith ...” (my added notations)
Many times true men of God are persecuted because they represent the Savior, and because they stand firm in faith, leading others to the Lord. The words of Jesus should encourage us though.
Matt. 5:11+12 Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
12 Rejoice and be exceeding glad” for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
Paul spoke in agreement with Jesus when he said -
2 Tim. 2”12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him; ...
Though hard times may be difficult to bear, God understands us and our needs better than anyone else ever could. He not only understands them, but he knows what it is that we really need. He is not only concerned with our physical needs, but our mental and spiritual as well. He knows that often it is when a man is stripped of some of the things he thinks he needs, that he will turn to God. He further knows that only dependency on him, will bring the true riches of God. A man who is busy seeking for things, his own way, is not usually sensitive to the voice of God. God, however, doesn't allow more temptation than we can bear.
I Cor. 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you, but such as is common to man: but God who is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
The Greek word for 'temptation' is peirasmos, pi-ras-mos'; “a putting to proof (by experiment [of good], experience [of evil] solicitation, discipline or provocation); by impl. adversity: - temptation – x try.” (Strong's)
We may be put to the test, and even disciplined for our good, but indeed it is for our good. Tough times produce great men and women, who are strong enough to stand in the face of adversity and persevere to victory. What God allows, he allows for a purpose.
Jesus suffered, but it was for our salvation. He made the choice to endure all the suffering and not call it off, though he could have done so.
Moses could have chosen the riches of Egypt. The men in Hebrews, chapter eleven, who were tortured, did not accept deliverance. In the Old Testament there were three Hebrew men who would not bow to any God but the true God. Had they been willing to bow to the image of Nebuchadnezzar, they could have escaped being thrown into a fiery furnace, but they would not. They were thrown into the fire, and Jesus came into the fire with them. (see Dan. 3)
Not only were they not burned, but their clothes did not even smell like fire when they walked out of the fiery furnace!
When others see love, devotion and the mighty delivering power of God, in the lives of men and women who are willing to suffer and even die, if need be, for their Lord, and who have peace and joy in the midst of it all, this is a powerful testimony to the reality of God. Either faith will be built and strengthened in hard times, producing strong men of God, or we will give up and fall. We need men of God who demonstrate to us, that unwavering faith, that teaches us to also trust in God, and not to lean on our own strength, but only on God's.
Prov. 3:5+6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
The Word of God teaches us to minister to one another's needs, and to make sure that we are never the one to offend or harm our brother or sister. The love of God should motivate us to be aware of out brother's need, and to be of help in any way we can. Do not expect any man to serve as your pastor, and to lay down his life for your sake, but neglect to see to it that he is supported materially. If you do, how can the unselfish love of God dwell in you?
Dear Pastor, please fix your eyes on Jesus, and eternal reward, refusing to worry or fret over whether or not your needs will be met by your brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep your eyes fixed on your true provider and your goal to bring him souls at whatever the cost. Refuse to attempt to bring people under bondage to the Law, in order to get from them what you feel you are due. Let the saints see Jesus at work in you, and bring them to him, who is able to change their hearts.
If you make the work of Christ, of whom you are a minister, of no effect, by bringing the saints back under the Law, which Jesus lived and died to fulfill and finish, then you will defeat yourself. Preach and live the perfect Law of Liberty. Preach and live the message of self denial. Tell the people what it means to take up their cross and follow Christ. But no matter what others do, be an example, not a tyrant. Keep your own dependency where it should be and see if people's hearts are not drawn to Jesus and HIS ways.
Paul lived as an example. He didn't even take what he had a right to, in some cases, but showed the people, by his own life, what God wanted from them.
DEAR MINISTER, WILL YOU SHOW THE PEOPLE WHAT IT MEANS TO REJOICE IN AFFLICTIONS?
WILL YOU SHOW THEM THE JOY OF GIVING FREELY, WITHOUT DEMANDING A RETURN IN THIS LIFE?
IS GOD LIMITED, UNABLE AND UNWILLING TO MEET ALL OF YOUR NEEDS ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY, UNLESS OTHERS DO RIGHT?
WILL YOU PLACE YOUR DEPENDENCY WHERE THE APOSLE PAUL'S DEPENDENCY LAY?
Col. 1:23-25 If you continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was peached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:
25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God;
Who among us will do as Paul did, and rejoice in sufferings, suffered for the cause of Christ and his church? He gave a message to Timothy -
2 Tim. 1:8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God.
There are afflictions of the gospel. There is also the power of God, which in the Greek is dunamis, doo'-nam-is; “force (lit.or fig.); spec. miraculous power (usually by impl. a miracle itself): - ability etc.” (Strong's)
We are not in this thing alone! It is not our ability and strength that enable us to go through these things. It is God's power that works mightily in and for us. We are to depend on his ability and his mighty, miraculous power.
God gives us the ability to rejoice in afflictions rather than becoming angry over them. How much better to intercede for the souls of those who you've served, but who seem to ignore your needs and the needs of others, than to let anger overcome your spirit. If a lack of love can hinder the relationship of those you've served and their God, then by all means, do not loose your own love and find yourself with the same attitude of heart. When you cannot depend on man, you can always depend on the love and power of the creator of man. He can help you to be an example of unmerited love and true forgiveness.
If you are one who preaches the gospel, who has felt that because of the position you hold, you have a right to all the finer material things in life and an upper class life style, please consider the examples set before you in God's Word, rather than your rights. God had a right to refuse a cross of shame, paying for sins he had never committed, and to destroy mankind for his disobedience and sin. But Jesus did not choose, simply rights and fairness. Aren't you glad he did not? What would you choose; personal control and authority here and now, or to follow Christ in his suffering, and rule and reign with him when he returns? If you do not choose the latter, then you do not choose a life in Christ and are not fit to present yourself as a preacher of the gospel.
If we suffer on earth, what is that? What are a few years of a lifetime on earth compared to eternity? Look what Paul says we have when we suffer.
2 Cor. 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation (... comfort ...[Strong's]) also aboundeth by Christ. (added notation)
The apostle had a purpose and a motivation, that did not require material gain. There were treasures which he desired to lay up in heaven, and to enjoy when he was in the presence of
God, one day. He worked toward that end, abandoning whatever would detract from his goal.
1 Thes. 2:19+20 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
2 For ye are our glory and joy.
There is that word 'hope' again. What was Paul anticipating with pleasure? What was he expecting, in faith and confidence? What was the prize he worked for? It was God's little ones, his children, who Paul ministered to day be day, hour by hour. Seeing them in the presence of the Lord, forever, and sharing eternity with them, would be his joy and crown of rejoicing!
To find a minister with such a heart as Paul's, is to find a great blessing and a gift from God. Such a man truly demonstrates the heart of God! Paul brought the light of Jesus to the Gentiles. Some received God's love, by grace and in turn ministered love back to Paul, in ministering to his physical needs. But in some, love was limited and they did not do as they should have. But Paul remained an example for all. His love was not limited. Even with the Corinthian people, he loved when they did not return love to the same degree.
2 Cor. 6:11-13 O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.
12 Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.
13 Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children), be ye enlarged.
Paul's heart was enlarged. The Lexicon says it this way - “Our heart expands itself to receive you into it, that is, to welcome and embrace you in love.”
When he says the people were not straitened in him, this is how the Lexicon puts it. “ ... Ample space is granted you in our souls, that is, we enfold you with large affection.”
The Corinthian people did not have a small place in Paul's heart, but in his heart they were wrapped in large affection, although he could not say the same of their feelings for him. In their bowels, or, that is, in their inward affection, there was not enough room for the same degree of love.
He wanted their love, as parents desire love from their children. When they did not love in return to the degree they had been loved, they may not have given to Paul's material needs as they should have.
It is a lack of love that causes such neglect, not a lack of Law. Love would have motivated the Corinthians to give as Paul had. It would have enlarged their hearts. Paul's love was not diminished by the lack of love or neglect of others. Instead he rejoiced in hard times. Those who do not love as they ought, suffer great loss, for they suffer spiritual loss. Their spirits are undernourished and it is easier to slip away from God, who is love. Thank God for Paul's longsuffering and the longsuffering of our God.
So then, what determines our giving to pastors or to any other in need? God who is love, who is the living Word, the beginning and the ending, is the determining factor. Would you like to give as you ought to? Then love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul, and love your neighbor as yourself. Walk in the Spirit of the living God and he will not direct you into paths of selfishness, but he will guide you into giving out of love. Take up your cross and follow Christ. Freely receive from God, and in turn give away just as freely. Give, seeking no material return, but knowing your God is going to supply all your needs according to his riches in glory.
Become as a little child and crawl up into your Father's arms. Rest there and let him be the provider he wants to be for you. Stop seeking provision and seek first the kingdom of God, his rulership, his control and his righteousness, and all that you need will be provided. Stop looking for rules and laws, and look into your Father's eyes. Come boldly before his throne.
Heb. 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of NEED. (emphasis mine)
Tap into grace, that divine influence that will influence your heart, motivating you to both give and receive as you ought. Seek those things which are above, where Christ is, even now, at the right hand of God. Work to see God's little ones spend eternity in his presence, and love them with the love of God. Let God be your source. When you cannot muster up love or any other good thing, ask God to fill you. Empty yourself of selfishness and let God fill you with his Spirit, his heart, his ability and his power. Let God give his life through you, and you will give as you should.
Phil. 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.
Live in the Law of Liberty and be not shaken from it. Be free then to love, free to live the life of Christ, and free to hear directly from God yourself. Refuse to allow the veil back over your heart and mind by going back under the law.
Love and be loved. Then you can treasure those gifts God gives to you, in the way of his loving ministers who watch for your soul. Be free to minister Jesus yourself, as a member of the priesthood and household of God!
No matter what your ministry may be, whether it is pastoring, being a dad or mom to some of God's children or whatever it may be, the answer ends up the same. Love and trust Jesus. He is the lover of your soul and the provider for your life.
What more can you receive? Can God's Word be added to or improved upon? Never! God's Word is always enough. I cannot give you what I have not received.
Never forget that you have been bought with a great price. If the Spirit of the living God dwells in you, then you are the temple of God. Let us put out all money changers from the temple, by never allowing ourselves to become money changers. Our Father owns the cattle on a thousand hills. His provision is sufficient so that we can rest in him with nothing to fear.
Matt. 7:11 ... how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?(God speaking)
Ps. 50:10 For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills
Rom. 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Ps. 84:11+12 For the Lord is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
12 O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.
Take Jesus! Be filled with Jesus! Step out into the life in Christ; into fullness; into liberty in him. Lie down in green pastures, drink living water and rest in your Father's presence. You really are safe there. You really can put fear and worry aside.
2 Tim. 1;7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Your precious Father isn't going to let you down for one minute. Just listen to his tender voice and he will guide you. Simply obey him. He will be your help and strength.
As God gave and still gives, freely to you, the child he loves, reach out, unafraid, and receive. Enjoy his provision and his loving care. Enjoy giving it away just as freely as you are prompted by love to do.
Praise him forever, Dear Child of God! Praise him with all you are and with all that you have!
Praise him for the price he paid that you could now walk in his love, grace and liberty!
1 John 3:17+19 But whoso hath this world's goods, and seeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and truth.
Heb. 13:15+16 By him (Jesus) therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. (parenthesis mine)
Heb. 13:20+21 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead, our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
21 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen
The Support of the New Testament Priesthood
Giving should be a natural part of the Christian life. If God, who is love, is in us, then love should be apparent in our lives. When we love someone, we care about what happens to them, and it pleases us to see them happy. Love is usually expressed through giving in one way or another.
Matt.22:37 Jesus said into him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind
.
Then in verse 39 Jesus said – “ ... Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”
The word 'heart' in verse 37, is, in the Greek, kardia, kar-dee'-ah; and includes in it's meanings, (fig.) the thoughts or feelings (mind); while the word 'mind' is dianoia, dee-an'-oy-ah; “deep thought, prop. the faculty (mind or it's disposition), by impl. it's exercise, imagination, mind, understanding. (Strong's).
Disposition means (Webster's), - a persons way of acting toward others, or thinking about things.
To love God as he wants us to, our love would be a part of our thoughts and feelings, as expressed in the meaning of the word 'heart', but it would be more than something we think about only when our emotions are stirred. Our love would be a part of our deep thoughts. It would be something we had made a decision on and acted on, to the point that it had become a real and obvious part of our disposition. Our Lord didn't just tell us to love from our heart, mind and soul. He said to love with 'all', that is, the whole, or the entire amount, of our heart, mind and soul. Then also to love our neighbor the way we love ourselves. If we do this, then giving will not be a problem.
When we come to see our Lord as the provider of all we need, we will not be afraid to give to those he has died for. And once again, if we take up our cross and follow Jesus, we will not be living selfish lives.
So then, it is Jesus who is love, who remains the foundation of our entire lives. Any doctrine we hold should be able to sit securely on this foundation. The same one who said,
Matt. 10:8 “ ... freely ye have received, freely give.”, also said to one man, Matt.19:21 “ ... If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.”
Notice that before we give freely, we receive freely. We first need to see all that we have, mental, physical, and spiritual provision, as being given to us by God – freely.
Jesus had told them in the same verse to “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils ...” Such things can only be given when they are first received from God. Jesus did not tell the young man to sell what he had and bring it to Jesus to help him and his disciples to be able to travel around doing their ministry. He told him that if he would be perfect (complete [Strong's]), to sell what he and and give to the poor.
His ministry was to the poor and needy. Don't you think we should consider God's attitude as seen in scripture, if it is God who we are to please?
Jesus taught the same thing in the verse in Luke that we went over earlier.
Luke 12:33+34 “Sell what ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens, that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
I don't think the purpose of these verses is to say that it is wrong to have any material things at all. But it shows us that our goal should not be to heap up more and more for ourselves. When our needs are met and there is any more than this, we have enough to help others with. Being willing to sacrifice for others is a Godly attitude. If our source of all provision is our loving Father God, then we know we can give to his children and he will always take care of us.
If you are a person looking for an excuse not to give, then you are a person with a heart problem. If you are looking for a clearly written law on how much you should give and how often, so this law can guide your life, then you too have a heart need. Remember, Jesus gave his all; his very life.
Gal. 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
If we learn to keep our focus on Jesus and his kingdom, and learn to walk In his Spirit, he will guide our financial giving, as well as every aspect of our lives. We really can trust him for this.
Col. 3:1+2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on earth.
While we will not cover all scripture that speak of giving, I think it should be sufficient to understand the attitude and teaching of Christ himself, so that we can consider this any time we read scripture on this subject. God does not change his heart of his opinion from chapter to chapter. So let's look at some scripture to help where there may be some questions as to meaning or possible misunderstanding as to God's will. First of all set's go to 1 Corinthians, where Paul addresses the issue of support for ministers.
1 Cor. 9:7+8 Who goeth a warfare at any time at his own charges? Who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? Or who feedeth a flock , and eateth not of the milk of the flock?
8 Say I these things as a man or saith not the law the same also?
The word 'charges' in the Greek is the word opsonion, op-so'-nee-on; “rations for a soldier, that is (by extens.) his stipen or pay:-wages. (Strong's)
What man serves as a soldier and does not receive at least the basic necessities of life? When a soldier goes to war, he is provided food and clothing. He doesn't have to concern himself with these things, only with doing his job. And a man whose job is to care for a vineyard, is not considered a thief when he eats some of the fruit. Nor is a man who is hired to feed and care for a flock, considered a thief if he drinks some of the milk they produce.
Even in the Law of Moses there was provision made for animals that worked and served man, such as oxen that worked the fields.
1 Cor. 9:9-11 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God care for oxen? (see Dt. 25;4)
10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should be partaker of his hope.
11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap of your carnal things?
When animals labored in fields, they were allowed to share in what grew there. They were to be allowed to eat what was growing as they went along.
Paul believed that this was put into the law to serve as an example to us. The man who works serving others should work in hope. The Greek word for 'hope' is elpis, el-pece; “(to anticipate, usually with pleasure); expectation (abstr. or concr.) or confidence – faith, hope.” (Strong's)
A man who plows a field should anticipate and expect a crop, and the ox that treads out the grain should be able to enjoy part of the grain that he worked to produce. Paul asked if it was a great thing for he and the others who had sown spiritual things, to reap, or take in some of their carnal (temporal [Strong's[) things.
We've already learned that to be a minister of the people, is to be a servant, so let me then ask this question for you to consider. If you were to have a servant who served you night and day, where would you expect him to get food, shelter and clothing? The answer is obvious. These things come to a servant from the one he serves, or at least the finances to get them with.
So then if any man or woman of God spends his or her time ministering to you in the things of God, you should be willing to to help meet his physical needs in whatever way you are able and as God leads you to do. This seems simple enough to understand. If a man takes time from which he could be earning a wage, to be with you, helping you spiritually, should it not be in your heart to see that his needs are met as much as you are able, within reason, if, after all, you love your neighbor as yourself?
Paul did not stop there, however. He had more to say about ministers and their needs.
1Cor. 9:12-15 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
13 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? And they which wait at the alter are partakers with the alter?
14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
15 But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things that it should be done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that man should make my glorying void.
The Greek word for 'power' in verse 12, is exousia. ex-oo-see'-ah; (Strong's) and the Lexicon gives this meaning, “power of choice, liberty of doing as one pleases; leave or permission.”
The word 'rather' is mallon, mal'-on; “(adv.) more (in a greater degree) or rather ...
Partakers is the Greek word metecho, met-ekh'-o; (Strong's) and the Lexicon gives this meaning, “have rightly restores in hopes of partaking (of the harvest); with a gen. of the thing added.
So Paul seems to be pointing out that if others have exercised the privilege of sharing their material things, after, or while, ministering spiritual things, is he not privileged, or free to do so even more? This he probably said comparing how much more he had served them than what others had done.
Now as Paul was pointing out these things in the scripture, wouldn't this have been a perfect time and appropriate place to have explained to the Corinthian people, how that tithing was the designate means for this provision of ministers, if indeed, it were in the New Covenant? But Paul never once mentioned it. He did, however go on to say, that even though he had the right to share their provisions, he actually behaved in an opposite manner and did so for a very important reason.
Paul was wise enough to realize that if he used the privilege that he was speaking of, there was a very real possibility of the gospel being hindered. Even today accusations can be heard about gospel ministers being in the ministry for money. I'm quite sure there are such hirelings too. People make comments about preachers asking for money or misusing money etc.
Consider too, that if the law of tithing had been in effect and Paul refused to take it, wouldn't he have been sinning himself and also hindering the people's obedience? Or if tithing was still a law, shouldn't Paul have told them who to give it to, if he himself was unwilling to take it, so they would know how to go about keeping the law? But he gave no instructions concerning tithes, whatsoever.
What Paul did say was that God had ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. In the Greek the word for 'ordained' is diatasso, dee-at-as'-so; “to arrange thoroughly, that is, institute, prescribe, et., - appoint, command, give (set in) order, ordain.” (Strong's)
I do not think Paul would have willingly or knowingly, gone against a command of God. God had arranged for ministers to have the freedom to share the provisions, or material goods, of the people whom they served. God had set in order, that the people would provide for their ministers. It was and is a good thing.
However, this was a privilege that a minister had the freedom to use or refuse, as Paul did. Paul was under grace. This was a heart matter. The attitude of willingness to meet the minister's needs should have been an inclusive part of loving your brother as yourself, and laying up treasures in heaven. This should have been an automatic outworking of love. What kind of a person would let someone work for him even for one day for no pay, and not even offer him food or drink?
God has instituted, even by the coming of his Spirit to dwell in our hearts in love, that one who serves God's little children, in the Word of truth, will be cared for properly by his brothers. Yet if these servants know who their provider is, they can know that even if men fail them, God will not!
Paul lived in the New Covenant and the grace of God. He was free to say “thank you, but no thank you.” God will judge the man tho is willing to take and not give. He will not judge him by Mosaic Law, or monetary percentage, but by the attitude of his heart and his obedience to the voice of God.
Notice what Paul said in the very first verse of this chapter.
1 Cor. 9:1 Am I not an apostle? Am I not free?
The Greek word for 'free' is eleutheros, el-yoo-ther-os; (to go at pleasure), that is, (as a citizen), not a slave (whether free born or manumitted), or (gen.) exempt (from obligation or liability); free (man, woman) at liberty. (Strong's)
Paul was free from religious bondage. He served God out of his free will.
John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free ye shall be free indeed.
And Paul said this in Galatians -
Gal. 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Paul did not neglect to give instructions on providing because he did not know the Old Law. He knew the Law well. For he himself was, not only an Israelite, but he was also a Pharisee. He told this in scripture.
Rom. 11:1 “ .. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.
Acts 26:5 “ ... after the most straitest sect of religion I lived a Pharisee.”
Paul understood the Law and that Christ had ended it. Going back to 1 Cor. 9, look at what he said at verse 18.
18 What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I make the gospel of Christ without charge. That I abuse not my power in the gospel.
He had already said in verse 17, “For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward ...”
Praise the Lord! Paul could freely give to the people, what he had freely received from God, and expect to freely be provided for! He did not have to charge for what he gave!
The word 'charge' in the Greek is adapanos, ad-ap'-an-os; “costless, that is, gratuitous:- without expense.” (Strong's)Gratuitous means “Given without charge; free, not required by the circumstances, unjustified ...” (Webster's)
By his attitude, Paul freed the people to do whatever they did from willing hearts. We are told in Hebrews 4:12, speaking of the Word of God, -
“ .. and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Now Paul , who set the example for the Gentiles, and the ministers who would follow after him, had times of plenty and times of little. But, he like Abraham and Moses, had his eye on eternal things. He looked for an eternal reward.
Paul speaking) Phil. 4:12+13 I know both how to be abased and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.
This man even showed the attitude that should be had in the difficult times. He always followed God's instructions, even though at times, that meant doing withou. But he was never without strength from God. He didn't consider suffering a bad thing. He spoke of it this way in Timothy.
2 Tim. 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he will also deny us.
It is not uncommon today for people to judge their spirituality by how they are doing financially. But this is not at all what Paul taught. You see, if you live godly in Christ, but hard times come, you must not deny that God is still in control, for to do so is to deny yourself his strength and his help to bring you through. As Paul knew so well and said in Timothy
.
2 Tim. 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
Difficulties are not always a sign of being out of God;s will. Even if people didn't always support Paul as they should have, this did not mean that Paul was out of God's will. Instead those were the times he could be an example of faith, patience, longsuffering and unmerited love, etc.
Rom. 8:17+18 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified together.
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
So Paul taught the people who gave out bountifully, or in a large way, that is how they would reap. He spoke this concerning the issue of 'ministering to the saints'. The saints are all those who have been washed in the blood of Jesus and have made him lord of their lives. So this applies to ministers as well as to any saint of God.
Whether the reaping came in this life or the next, it would come, and Paul preferred it to be in the next, in his case.
1John 3:16-18 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
17 But whoso hath this worlds goods, and seeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
2 Cor. 9:8-11 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye always having all sufficiency I all things, may abound to every good work:
9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad, he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth forever.
10 Now he that misistereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your own seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
11 Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
And again Paul spoke of who the provider really is. It is God who has the ability to make 'all' grace abound toward us.
'Grace' in the Greek is charis, khar'-ece; “graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstr. Or concr.; lit. or fig. or spiritual; especially the divine influence on the heart, and its' reflection in the life; including gratitude): ...” (Strong's)
The grace of God is a divine influence on our heart. Looking at this truth and considering the Greek word for sufficiency, we can learn a great lesson.
'Sufficiency' in Greek is autarkeia, ow-tar'-ki-ah; “self-satisfaction, that is, (abstr.) contentedness, or (concr.) a competence: contentment, sufficiency.” (Strong's)
Competence means, “State of being competent, adequacy.” (Webster's)
We can say then, that God, by grace, that divine influence upon the heart, can cause you to be self-satisfied, and content in everything, so that you can abound in every good work.
We tend to think of sufficiency as the state of having enough. And when we see the word competence meaning adequacy, then we might say we are content when we have enough. But then, what is enough? Paul, who said he knew how to abound and to suffer need, also said this in Philippians and Timothy.
Phil. 4:11 “ ... I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
1 Tim.6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
The author of Hebrews had this to say -
Heb. 13:5+6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content WITH SUCH THINGS AS YE HAVE; for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (emphasis mine)
These scriptures may not please carnal man, but they show us that our contentment and satisfaction is not to depend on the abundance of material goods we do or do not posses. In fact, if we are clothed and fed, we should be content, and Paul was able to be content even when he was hungry.
Having the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, is having enough. He is the provider of all good things for us, and will meet our needs in time. This kind of contentment is available to us, through our source, even when we ourselves cannot muster it up. Our source is a source of plenty. God gives us his grace. He has an abundance of grace for us to tap into. It is that divine influence that can influence our hearts to be joyful and content in situations that would cause others to despair.
Once we are filled with this contentment from our God, we will be able to continue abounding in every good work, even in the hard times. When you are preoccupied with either worry or despair over what you don't have, you cannot reach out very well to minister to others.
God may, at times, give us an abundance of material goods, which we can use to help others. But there may be times when he does not. God is seen in our lives, when we are able to say boldly “God is my helper”, with a calm, trusting , and joyful heart, even when we have little. That is the time when we demonstrate faith in out true provider, who provides materially, but also mentally and emotionally, as well, and never lets us down. We know that we are neither dependent on man, nor do we fear him, for we know our God is in control, and is above all! We demonstrate those riches which money cannot buy, that come to us in our inner man. Peace, contentment, and joy, in absolutely all circumstances, are treasures from the one true and living God.
Our love relationship with our God can be so deep, strong and true, that its' warmth and intensity can be experienced in the darkest hours of our life, and even in death. So, our contentment should be based in our relationship with our God, and our trust in him and his heart. When we know, not only his ability, but his desire, and his promise to meet all of our needs, there remains nothing to fear. His presence alone brings satisfaction.
Our contentment should also be effected by our call and our determination to take up our cross and follow Christ. If we have made a choice to share even in his sufferings, why then complain? There is glory yet to be shared in eternity. The difficulties of this life are very temporary and eternity is not far away.
But what does it mean to be enriched in everything to all bountifulness?
'Bountifulness' in the Greek is, haploids, hap-lot'-ace; “singleness, that is, (subj.) sincerity (without dissimulation or self-seeking) or (obj.) generosity (copious bestowal: ...” (Strong's)
Copious means “Having or yielding an abundant supply ...” (Webster's)
The reason God would enrich them or make them wealthy, whether materially, financially or spiritually, was so that they could, in turn, give unselfishly, generously and even copiously, or, that is, in large amounts. The more God gives to you, the more you have to give to others, from the very heart of God, who is in you; a true heart of love, and from your own heart, which is becoming more and more like him.
See how God's heart and character comes shining through every subject and every doctrine in scripture? God does not change!
Mal. 3:6 “For I am the Lord, I change not ...”
He may change some things, and some circumstances, but his own character will not change! This we can count on! Jesus is a sure and stable foundation!
The God of the Old Testament,as well as the God of the New Testament, who are one in the same, has always wanted our dependency to be completely on him. This is why Jesus told us what he did in Matthew -
Matt. 18:3 Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven.
This truth needs to be grasped hold of by preachers and laymen alike.
These scriptures we have looked at so far, answer the questions of giving and receiving, of peace and contentment, and of what pleases the Lord. They are not restricted to either preachers or laymen. They are to all and how all of God;s children can do his will.
SO YOU WISH TO BE GREAT?
Well, Dear Reader, in God's eyes it doesn't come by obtaining a title or position, except for a correct position in Christ.
Matt. 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same shall be great in the kingdom of heaven.
Dear minister, here is the formula for greatness. Humble yourself as a child, and be dependent on HIM as a child is dependent on his Father. Stop looking at men and their obedience as your means of provision. Look to your Heavenly Father. Obey and trust your Father, and he will not let you down.
Ministers and laymen alike should study these scriptures carefully and prayerfully, and perhaps caring for each other would become more obvious and active, in the lives of God's people. Give up fear and walk in love, for God is love. Then watch how he blesses!
Paul, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, gave us a wealth of information, by which we can learn and grow. He wrote to the Corinthians, chapter 6, explanations of how ministers of the gospel are to live. If you want to know whether or not a particular minister is truly a man of God, or if you want to know how you, as a minister of the priesthood of God should live, read and study this chapter.
In the first verse Paul begins by beseeching the Corinthians. So let's begin by looking at the meaning of the word “beseech', so we can see what is going on at the very start. The Greek word for 'beseech' is parakaleo, par-ak-ao-eh'-0; (Strong's)
The meaning given in the Lexicon is “To admonish or exhort.” Admonish means “To ... notify of a fault: to reprove with mildness; to advise or exhort; to recall or urge to duty.” (Webster's)
Exhort means “To encourage; to recall or urge to duty.” (Webster's)
What Paul was about to say was very important. I believe he was urging them to duty, calling their attention, warning and advising the; all of these things. What he was about to say was not to be taken lightly, so he begins by 'beseeching' them.
2 Cor. 6:1 We then, as workers together with them, (Christ) beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (parenthesis mine)
Here is that word 'grace' again. We often think of grace as unearned favor, and indeed we have no t earned or deserved the blessings of God. But this is even more than God forgiving us when we didn't deserve it. As we've already seem this grace which we are to receive, has to do with divine influence on our hearts. But we have the ability to either listen with respect, or to quench the Spirit, so that what was given to us for our good, becomes of no use to us. If we do this, it is by our own choice, not God's.
1 Thes. 5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
The Greek for 'quench' is sbennumi, sbn'-noo-mee; “to extinguish (lit. or fig.): - go out, quench.” (Strong's)
The Lexicon gives the meaning, “ ... to no purpose”, for the word 'vain'.
If we receive the grace of God, then ignore that influence on our heart, and quench it, then we have received it in vain.
Now the next verse tells us why it is so important to allow the grace of God to do it's work in our lives,and to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
2 Cor. 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured (to aid or relieve [Strong's]) thee: behold now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation.) (added notation)
Dear child of God, today is the day to allow God to have his way in your heart and mind, yielding to the divine influence upon your heart, for today is the day of salvation. Today is the day to reach souls for God's kingdom and to reach them God's way, not our own way. Jesus will soon return. This is the day of salvation.
Now Paul tells us what to do and what not to do as ministers of the gospel. But to follow these instructions requires the work of grace in our lives.
2 Cor. 6:3+4 Giving no offense in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed.
4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
It is clear who Paul is speaking to in these verses, and how they should live. First he tells them to give 'no offense' in any thing. The Lexicon gives the definition for 'offense' as - “to do something which causes others to stumble, that is, leads them into error and sin.” This is important for the sake of the one who would be offended, but also that the ministry is not blamed.
How many times has someone been mistreated, and not only was the one who did the harm blamed, but also Christianity itself been accused of not working?
Now let's consider this word 'approving', since Paul says, “in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God”, and gives a list of areas to approve ourselves in. There is much truth in these verses that could serve to wipe away many erroneous ideas about the life in Christ, when it exemplifies the life of Christ himself.
The Greek word for 'approving' is sunistao, soon-is-tah'-o; or (strengthened) sunistano ... ; “to sit together, that is, (by impl.) introduce (favorably), (fig.) to exhibit; intrans. - to stand near, or (fig.) to constitute: - approve, commend, consist, make, stand (with): (Strong's)
The Lexicon says, “to set one with another, that is, by way of presenting or introducing him, that is, to commend.”
So we might say that Paul is laying out what the lives of ministers are to consist of. If you are to be a minister, these things should be the things in your life that commend you, or introduce you favorably as a true minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. These are the things to be exhibited in your life, so as to be easily recognized. It should not be, so much, your white collar that marks you as minister of God, but these things that are listed here in the scriptures.
Since 'minister' by its' definition, is a servant, then whether or not a man is a true servant of God, worthy of being supported solely by other Christians, can seen by the presence or absence of these particular behaviors.
If then, you want to be introduced favorably as a minister of God, exhibit Christ in these things, with patience.
Let's start with afflictions, which seems a very negative word. If you have been taught that children of God should never suffer affliction, this scripture definitely indicates differently. The Greek word for 'afflictions' includes such meanings as “pressure, anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble.”
Jesus had to deal with such things, but he still always glorified his Father, was victorious and never stopped loving. His people, who he sends forth as examples of himself on the earth, will have to deal with such things too. But they should, at the same time, demonstrate selfless love, and constant faith in the God of their salvation.They are to approve themselves also in necessities, which is the same word we looked at earlier. Even in times of need, Jesus should be seen in our lives.
Exhibit Christ in 'distresses' which the Lexicon says is “dire calamity, extreme affliction” WOW! Not only may we have to deal with afflictions, but perhaps even extreme affliction! However Christ is with us even then!
Exhibit him in 'imprisonments, in tumults, which the Lexicon says is “disturbances, disorders, of dissensions, of seditions.” Also in labours, meaning “intense labour united with trouble, toil,” (Lexicon), and Strong's Concordance defines it this way - “(by anal.) toil (as reducing the strength) ...”
This is not the end of the list, for Paul's list began at 2 Cor. 6:4 and went on and on for some time. But pause if you will, and reflect on these things. It is important to stay focused on what is being said. Ministers are being told to approve themselves as ministers of God, in all these things. Not just in preaching good sermons about these things. There is a big difference in talking about a thing and demonstrating the thing. When others see you 'in' these situations, they should see Christ in you.
HOW CAN THIS BE DONE?
1 John 3:10 In this the children of God are manifest ( ...to be plainly recognized or known [Lexicon]). and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.(added notation)
Now going back to 2 Corinthians chapter 6 -
If you are to be recognized as a minister of God, then God, who is love, must be seen in your life, even in such difficult times as Paul spoke of; not just heard about from your lips, or Christ will be misrepresented.
Notice that one of the things Paul named was labours (plural), meaning intense labor united with trouble.” (Strong's). If a minister has the idea that he is to minister, or sow spiritual things, but that he shouldn't do much physical work, what will he do with this scripture, or with Paul's example, who worked for the food he ate?
The word 'labours' is a plural word, indicating that this may be a situation that is repeated. But you see, when a minister can meet other men on their own level and experience that they go through, including their sufferings, yet demonstrate Christ, then what a witness he can be! Then others can see the reality that it can be done. Didn't Jesus himself experience life as a man had to live it? Did he not set us an example? Should his ministers do less?
Now let's go on to verse 5 and see some of the other things we are to approve ourselves in. “in watchings”, meaning sleeplessness, that is, keeping awake ...” (Strong's) Why would a minister experience sleeplessness? From sitting up late in study and prayer? Perhaps. Or perhaps sitting beside the bedside of a sick person, to comfort, show Jesus and intercede in prayer? Or perhaps listening to a broken heart and applying the healing balm of Jesus Christ, with compassion, the Word, and prayer? Or even doing spiritual warfare. Yes, the man of God is a servant.
Exhibit yourself as minister of God, in fastings. Now the meaning the Lexicon gives for this word, is very interesting - “a fasting to which one is driven by want” The meaning of the word 'want' as a noun, is “Absence or scarcity of something needed or desired; lack; the state of being in need; poverty; a desire for something.” (Webster's)
In verse 6, Paul begins telling us, not only what situations we should demonstrate Christ 'in', but also what it is seen 'by'.
“By pureness” which is “cleanness (the state), that is, (fig.) blamelessness: ... (Strong's)
“By knowledge”, which the Lexicon says is “the deeper, more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this religion, as belongs to the more advanced.”
“By longsuffering” which the Lexicon says is “patience, forbearance, long-suffering, slowness in avenging wrongs.”
“By kindness”, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned," which would be, “love that is undisguised” (Lexicon). If it is undisguised, then it is apparent.
“By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left.
“By honour,” which is “good opinion concerning one, and as resulting from that, praise, honour, glory.” (Lexicon)
“By dishonour”, which is, “dishonour, ignominy, disgrace.” (Lexicon)
Ignominy is “public disgrace; shame; etc. (Webster's)
“By evil report, and good report.”
“As deceivers and yet true.”
“As unknown and yet well known; as dying;” (which means, “I meet death daily, live daily in danger of death” [Lexicon]), and behold we live.”
“As chastened and not killed.” (my added notations)
Chastened means, according to the Lexicon, “ to chasten by the affliction of evils and calamities.” By this we may we learn much, but this doesn't kill us when God has a work for us to do.
“As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich, as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.”
What an amazing and awesome set of scriptures, outlining what is to be the life of a true and obvious minister of God! It may not agree with some modern day teachings and may not appeal to the flesh, but it is the Word of God, and it is magnificent! Such should be the life of each and every one of God's leaders! It is a powerful and noble life!
Such a life requires sacrifice, and so we do not easily find such lives in our day and time. It is a life in which persecutions, troubles and great difficulty are sometimes experienced but in which great power is experienced as well, and in which kindness, longsuffering, sincere love, and patience is always a part. It is a tremendously rich life!
Oh to find such role models as these for our children to see! Oh! To have true ministers of God, who do not paint pictures of glamor and self-indulgence for our youth, but rather point them to the greater riches of God, with their eternal value!
Dear Child of God, for which Christ gave his life, please do not be deceived by a doctrine that teaches you, that to suffer trouble or financial difficulty is always a result of your life not being right with God. Such a doctrine disagrees with God's Word. Certainly it is possible to face difficulties because a person has chose to go their own way and not God's, or because of making wrong decisions. But it is also possible to face hard times while walking in the will of God, as was the case for Jesus' disciples. If our heart is pure and we are surrendered to God, we need not fear. God will meet our needs in time and in his own way.
Remember that Moses chose the afflictions with the people of God, rather than the riches of Egypt. And look what Hebrews tells us of some of the people of faith.
Heb. 11:35-39 “ ... and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonments:
37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute (“to suffer want” [Lexicon]), afflicted, tormented;
38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith ...” (my added notations)
Many times true men of God are persecuted because they represent the Savior, and because they stand firm in faith, leading others to the Lord. The words of Jesus should encourage us though.
Matt. 5:11+12 Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
12 Rejoice and be exceeding glad” for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
Paul spoke in agreement with Jesus when he said -
2 Tim. 2”12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him; ...
Though hard times may be difficult to bear, God understands us and our needs better than anyone else ever could. He not only understands them, but he knows what it is that we really need. He is not only concerned with our physical needs, but our mental and spiritual as well. He knows that often it is when a man is stripped of some of the things he thinks he needs, that he will turn to God. He further knows that only dependency on him, will bring the true riches of God. A man who is busy seeking for things, his own way, is not usually sensitive to the voice of God. God, however, doesn't allow more temptation than we can bear.
I Cor. 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you, but such as is common to man: but God who is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
The Greek word for 'temptation' is peirasmos, pi-ras-mos'; “a putting to proof (by experiment [of good], experience [of evil] solicitation, discipline or provocation); by impl. adversity: - temptation – x try.” (Strong's)
We may be put to the test, and even disciplined for our good, but indeed it is for our good. Tough times produce great men and women, who are strong enough to stand in the face of adversity and persevere to victory. What God allows, he allows for a purpose.
Jesus suffered, but it was for our salvation. He made the choice to endure all the suffering and not call it off, though he could have done so.
Moses could have chosen the riches of Egypt. The men in Hebrews, chapter eleven, who were tortured, did not accept deliverance. In the Old Testament there were three Hebrew men who would not bow to any God but the true God. Had they been willing to bow to the image of Nebuchadnezzar, they could have escaped being thrown into a fiery furnace, but they would not. They were thrown into the fire, and Jesus came into the fire with them. (see Dan. 3)
Not only were they not burned, but their clothes did not even smell like fire when they walked out of the fiery furnace!
When others see love, devotion and the mighty delivering power of God, in the lives of men and women who are willing to suffer and even die, if need be, for their Lord, and who have peace and joy in the midst of it all, this is a powerful testimony to the reality of God. Either faith will be built and strengthened in hard times, producing strong men of God, or we will give up and fall. We need men of God who demonstrate to us, that unwavering faith, that teaches us to also trust in God, and not to lean on our own strength, but only on God's.
Prov. 3:5+6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
The Word of God teaches us to minister to one another's needs, and to make sure that we are never the one to offend or harm our brother or sister. The love of God should motivate us to be aware of out brother's need, and to be of help in any way we can. Do not expect any man to serve as your pastor, and to lay down his life for your sake, but neglect to see to it that he is supported materially. If you do, how can the unselfish love of God dwell in you?
Dear Pastor, please fix your eyes on Jesus, and eternal reward, refusing to worry or fret over whether or not your needs will be met by your brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep your eyes fixed on your true provider and your goal to bring him souls at whatever the cost. Refuse to attempt to bring people under bondage to the Law, in order to get from them what you feel you are due. Let the saints see Jesus at work in you, and bring them to him, who is able to change their hearts.
If you make the work of Christ, of whom you are a minister, of no effect, by bringing the saints back under the Law, which Jesus lived and died to fulfill and finish, then you will defeat yourself. Preach and live the perfect Law of Liberty. Preach and live the message of self denial. Tell the people what it means to take up their cross and follow Christ. But no matter what others do, be an example, not a tyrant. Keep your own dependency where it should be and see if people's hearts are not drawn to Jesus and HIS ways.
Paul lived as an example. He didn't even take what he had a right to, in some cases, but showed the people, by his own life, what God wanted from them.
DEAR MINISTER, WILL YOU SHOW THE PEOPLE WHAT IT MEANS TO REJOICE IN AFFLICTIONS?
WILL YOU SHOW THEM THE JOY OF GIVING FREELY, WITHOUT DEMANDING A RETURN IN THIS LIFE?
IS GOD LIMITED, UNABLE AND UNWILLING TO MEET ALL OF YOUR NEEDS ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY, UNLESS OTHERS DO RIGHT?
WILL YOU PLACE YOUR DEPENDENCY WHERE THE APOSLE PAUL'S DEPENDENCY LAY?
Col. 1:23-25 If you continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was peached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:
25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God;
Who among us will do as Paul did, and rejoice in sufferings, suffered for the cause of Christ and his church? He gave a message to Timothy -
2 Tim. 1:8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God.
There are afflictions of the gospel. There is also the power of God, which in the Greek is dunamis, doo'-nam-is; “force (lit.or fig.); spec. miraculous power (usually by impl. a miracle itself): - ability etc.” (Strong's)
We are not in this thing alone! It is not our ability and strength that enable us to go through these things. It is God's power that works mightily in and for us. We are to depend on his ability and his mighty, miraculous power.
God gives us the ability to rejoice in afflictions rather than becoming angry over them. How much better to intercede for the souls of those who you've served, but who seem to ignore your needs and the needs of others, than to let anger overcome your spirit. If a lack of love can hinder the relationship of those you've served and their God, then by all means, do not loose your own love and find yourself with the same attitude of heart. When you cannot depend on man, you can always depend on the love and power of the creator of man. He can help you to be an example of unmerited love and true forgiveness.
If you are one who preaches the gospel, who has felt that because of the position you hold, you have a right to all the finer material things in life and an upper class life style, please consider the examples set before you in God's Word, rather than your rights. God had a right to refuse a cross of shame, paying for sins he had never committed, and to destroy mankind for his disobedience and sin. But Jesus did not choose, simply rights and fairness. Aren't you glad he did not? What would you choose; personal control and authority here and now, or to follow Christ in his suffering, and rule and reign with him when he returns? If you do not choose the latter, then you do not choose a life in Christ and are not fit to present yourself as a preacher of the gospel.
If we suffer on earth, what is that? What are a few years of a lifetime on earth compared to eternity? Look what Paul says we have when we suffer.
2 Cor. 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation (... comfort ...[Strong's]) also aboundeth by Christ. (added notation)
The apostle had a purpose and a motivation, that did not require material gain. There were treasures which he desired to lay up in heaven, and to enjoy when he was in the presence of
God, one day. He worked toward that end, abandoning whatever would detract from his goal.
1 Thes. 2:19+20 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
2 For ye are our glory and joy.
There is that word 'hope' again. What was Paul anticipating with pleasure? What was he expecting, in faith and confidence? What was the prize he worked for? It was God's little ones, his children, who Paul ministered to day be day, hour by hour. Seeing them in the presence of the Lord, forever, and sharing eternity with them, would be his joy and crown of rejoicing!
To find a minister with such a heart as Paul's, is to find a great blessing and a gift from God. Such a man truly demonstrates the heart of God! Paul brought the light of Jesus to the Gentiles. Some received God's love, by grace and in turn ministered love back to Paul, in ministering to his physical needs. But in some, love was limited and they did not do as they should have. But Paul remained an example for all. His love was not limited. Even with the Corinthian people, he loved when they did not return love to the same degree.
2 Cor. 6:11-13 O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.
12 Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.
13 Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children), be ye enlarged.
Paul's heart was enlarged. The Lexicon says it this way - “Our heart expands itself to receive you into it, that is, to welcome and embrace you in love.”
When he says the people were not straitened in him, this is how the Lexicon puts it. “ ... Ample space is granted you in our souls, that is, we enfold you with large affection.”
The Corinthian people did not have a small place in Paul's heart, but in his heart they were wrapped in large affection, although he could not say the same of their feelings for him. In their bowels, or, that is, in their inward affection, there was not enough room for the same degree of love.
He wanted their love, as parents desire love from their children. When they did not love in return to the degree they had been loved, they may not have given to Paul's material needs as they should have.
It is a lack of love that causes such neglect, not a lack of Law. Love would have motivated the Corinthians to give as Paul had. It would have enlarged their hearts. Paul's love was not diminished by the lack of love or neglect of others. Instead he rejoiced in hard times. Those who do not love as they ought, suffer great loss, for they suffer spiritual loss. Their spirits are undernourished and it is easier to slip away from God, who is love. Thank God for Paul's longsuffering and the longsuffering of our God.
So then, what determines our giving to pastors or to any other in need? God who is love, who is the living Word, the beginning and the ending, is the determining factor. Would you like to give as you ought to? Then love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul, and love your neighbor as yourself. Walk in the Spirit of the living God and he will not direct you into paths of selfishness, but he will guide you into giving out of love. Take up your cross and follow Christ. Freely receive from God, and in turn give away just as freely. Give, seeking no material return, but knowing your God is going to supply all your needs according to his riches in glory.
Become as a little child and crawl up into your Father's arms. Rest there and let him be the provider he wants to be for you. Stop seeking provision and seek first the kingdom of God, his rulership, his control and his righteousness, and all that you need will be provided. Stop looking for rules and laws, and look into your Father's eyes. Come boldly before his throne.
Heb. 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of NEED. (emphasis mine)
Tap into grace, that divine influence that will influence your heart, motivating you to both give and receive as you ought. Seek those things which are above, where Christ is, even now, at the right hand of God. Work to see God's little ones spend eternity in his presence, and love them with the love of God. Let God be your source. When you cannot muster up love or any other good thing, ask God to fill you. Empty yourself of selfishness and let God fill you with his Spirit, his heart, his ability and his power. Let God give his life through you, and you will give as you should.
Phil. 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.
Live in the Law of Liberty and be not shaken from it. Be free then to love, free to live the life of Christ, and free to hear directly from God yourself. Refuse to allow the veil back over your heart and mind by going back under the law.
Love and be loved. Then you can treasure those gifts God gives to you, in the way of his loving ministers who watch for your soul. Be free to minister Jesus yourself, as a member of the priesthood and household of God!
No matter what your ministry may be, whether it is pastoring, being a dad or mom to some of God's children or whatever it may be, the answer ends up the same. Love and trust Jesus. He is the lover of your soul and the provider for your life.
What more can you receive? Can God's Word be added to or improved upon? Never! God's Word is always enough. I cannot give you what I have not received.
Never forget that you have been bought with a great price. If the Spirit of the living God dwells in you, then you are the temple of God. Let us put out all money changers from the temple, by never allowing ourselves to become money changers. Our Father owns the cattle on a thousand hills. His provision is sufficient so that we can rest in him with nothing to fear.
Matt. 7:11 ... how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?(God speaking)
Ps. 50:10 For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills
Rom. 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Ps. 84:11+12 For the Lord is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
12 O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.
Take Jesus! Be filled with Jesus! Step out into the life in Christ; into fullness; into liberty in him. Lie down in green pastures, drink living water and rest in your Father's presence. You really are safe there. You really can put fear and worry aside.
2 Tim. 1;7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Your precious Father isn't going to let you down for one minute. Just listen to his tender voice and he will guide you. Simply obey him. He will be your help and strength.
As God gave and still gives, freely to you, the child he loves, reach out, unafraid, and receive. Enjoy his provision and his loving care. Enjoy giving it away just as freely as you are prompted by love to do.
Praise him forever, Dear Child of God! Praise him with all you are and with all that you have!
Praise him for the price he paid that you could now walk in his love, grace and liberty!
1 John 3:17+19 But whoso hath this world's goods, and seeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and truth.
Heb. 13:15+16 By him (Jesus) therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. (parenthesis mine)
Heb. 13:20+21 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead, our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
21 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen
Does the New Testament Teach Tithing? Chapter Nineteen
chapter 19
DOES THE NEW TESTAMENT TEACH TITHING?
There is no doctrine of tithing in the New Testament. There are no instructions saying that they are to be given to anyone or any place, or any other way to use them. There is no tribe, or group, separated from all other Christians, to be considered the only ministers of the New Covenant, designated to receive tithes. The fold or church building is not called the storehouse in any New Testament scriptures. Pastors are not high priest of the New Covenant, for we have only one high priest, our Savior, Jesus Christ the righteous, who lives eternally.
Heb. 7:26+27 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
There are no scriptures telling is that tithes are now to be of money, rather than that which it was supposed to be according to Mosaic Law. We know that much importance is placed on tithing today and that it is the one part of the Old Law that is taught in many denominations, and by pastors and evangelists alike. But the truth is that tithing always has been an integral part of the Mosaic Law, designated only for the tribe of Levi and at certain times, for widows, fatherless and strangers. It's purpose is very clear. It was an important part of a system which has ended and been done away with, on the day that Jesus was crucified.
The fact of what is said so plainly in Collosians, does not stop preachers from bringing this upon men today.
Col. 2:13+14 “ ... Having forgiven you all trespasses;
14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
Nor does the fact that Jesus never once taught even his disciples to tithe, keep ministers today from saying that we must. Preachers read what is said in Galatians 3:13, but still tell people they will be cursed if they do not tithe, which is clearly an old ordinance.
Gal. 3:13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
The fact that our Lord;s disciples never once taught tithing, does not hinder those who teach it today. They have neither Jesus nor the twelve disciples as an example of putting this upon New Testament believers, but they do it just the same.
When the apostle Paul came to the Gentiles, who had never lived by Jewish law, and preached to them the good news of Jesus the Savior, he taught them how to be saved. He taught them many things about how to live a life in Christ. He even spoke to them about giving, but he never once taught them to tithe.
DO YOU SUPPOSE THIS WAS JUST AN OVERSIGHT?
OR A MISTAKE ON THE LORD'S PART, AND ON THE PART OF THE DISCIPLES?
OR, DO YOU SUPPOSE THAT JESUS JUST FIGURED THAT EVEN NON-
JEWS WOULD KNOW, WITHOUT BEING TOLD, THAT THEY SHOULD GO BACK INTO THE LAW WHICH HE HAD ABOLISHED, TAKE OUT
ONLY THAT PART, AND KEEP IT IN THE NEW AND BETTER WAY?
There was a time in the New Testament when questions did arise concerning law and grace, and an interesting conclusion was arrived at. There were some men who came from Judea telling the Christians that they couldn't be saved if they were not circumcised after the manner of Moses. Seeing that God had commanded this of Abraham even before giving Moses the Law, it can be understood why some could still consider this important. (see Gen. 17:10-14)
Circumcision was, after all, a mark in the flesh representing the covenant between God and Abraham. Doesn't it seem reasonable then, to think that all those who receive Jesus as the true Messiah, who was promised to Abraham, should receive the mark of that covenant, in their flesh as well?
Well the apostles and elders got together and had a meeting concerning this issue. As a result they reached a conclusion as to what New Testament believers were and were not required to do, and it was summed up in only two verses of scripture. If we look at this particular incident, we can probably see similarities to situations that arise among Christians today, concerning right and wrong behavior. The conclusion is very enlightening.
Acts 15:1+2 And certain men which came down from Judea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.
2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them,they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.
You can see that these men were not even satisfied with Paul and Barnabas' answers. This was no light matter in their minds.
Paul and Barnabas did go to Jerusalem, and did meet with the apostles and elders. At this meeting some who were Pharisees, who had believed in Jesus as the Messiah, rose up and declared that circumcision and keeping the Law of Moses was needful. So the apostles and elders considered the matter. You can read of this meeting in Acts 15:3-21. But let us look at the letter that was written in conclusion of this important meeting, and delivered to the Gentiles to answer their question.
Acts. 15:24-31 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying Ye must be circumcised , and keep the law of: to whom we gave no such commandment:
25 It seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
26 Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
27 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.
28 For it seemed good the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
29 That you abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well
30 So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle.
31 Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.
Although the question had been whether or not Christians had to be circumcised in order to be saved, by verse 5 we see that it was also a matter of keeping the Law of Moses. Was there to be only one part of the Law brought back into the life of the New Testament believers, and no more? You can see how demanding the keeping of this one Law could bring in many other questions. But in the letter of conclusion it was said that the people had been troubled with words and their souls had been being subverted.
The word 'subverting', in the Greek is anakeuazo, an-ask-yoo-ad'-zo; “from ana (in the sense of reversal) and a der. Of skeuos. Prop. to pack up (baggage), that is, (by implication and fig.) to upset: - subvert.” (Strong's) The Greek Lexicon gives this meaning - “to turn away violently from a right state, to unsettle, subvert.”
By the use of the word 'subvert' then, we get the picture that the words which were troubling the Christians, had the effect of turning them from their correct position in Christ, to an incorrect one, or at least, unsettling them to the point of loosing confidence. They had begun in faith and grace, but as they began to be taught a need to add Mosaic Law to their lives, they were being taught the opposite of grace.
Notice that the false teaching came from men who were probably very knowledgeable in the Law, and coming across very authoritatively; being Pharisees, but they were also very wrong. However as you can see, what seemed good to the Holy Ghost and the apostles, was to lay no greater burden on these Christians than four necessary things
.
Notice also that they said “no greater thing.”
The word 'no' in the Greek is medeis, may-dice'; “not even one (man, woman, or thing: ....” The word 'greater' is pleion, pli-own; neut. Plieon, pli'-on, or pleon, pleh'-on; moer in quantity, number, or quality: ...” (Strong's)
So then, they did not lay even one more thing on the Church that would add one more burden on them, than that they observe these four things, that were necessary. Not circumcision, and no other part of the Mosaic Law. They did not say to observe certain sabbaths or festivals, nor to be faithful in paying tithes. The message was very plain and understandable; simply see to these four things
.
1 Abstain from meats offered to idols.
2 Abstain from blood.
3 Abstain from things strangled.
4 Abstain from fornication.
AGAIN LET ME ASK, DO YOU THINK THAT POSSIBLY THE HOLY GHOST, THE APOSTLES AND THE ELDERS, MADE A MISTAKE?
DO YOU OR I HAVE A RIGHT TO ADD TO THIS LIST AND CALL IT INCOMPLETE?
This issue had obviously been important enough for all of these men to come together and come to a conclusion IN THE HOLY GHOST, and it meant enough to the people at Antioch that the answer given to them brought them consolation and rejoicing. But will the declaration of Paul, Barnabas, Judas, Silas and all the others, be good enough for you and I?
Paul addressed the issue of law to the Galatians.
Gal. 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
However, we find in the very next chapter, that someone spoke words to the Galatians, which must have been presented in such a convincing way, that they began to reconsider how far the walk of faith went, after all. Look what Paul had to say to this.
Gal. 3:1-4 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that you should not OBEY THE TRUTH, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?
2 This only would I learn of you, received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
3 Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain?
How strongly Paul speaks! And how boldly! To try to be justified by the works of the Law is to disobey the truth! Yet how often today, do the same preachers who will proclaim that indeed we are now justified by faith, frustrate grace, as they bring in one singular work, that was clearly of the Law, threaten men with a curse if they do not do this work, and use it as a mark of the true and faithful believer?! Has tithing become the token of the believer's commitment to Christ, as circumcision was the token of the covenant between Abraham and God? (Gen. 17:11)
The word 'token” in Gen 17:11, in the Hebrew is owth, oth; “prob. From 'uwth' (in the sense of appearing); a signal (lit. or fig.), as a flag, beacon, monument, omen, prodigy, evidence, etc. ...” (Strong's)
Jesus did not call for tithes as a token and neither did the apostles. Nonetheless, today men bravely stand behind pulpits calling for it, and denounce and condemn any man who doesn't demonstrate his commitment to Christ by tithing of his earnings! Is there a man so great that he can go above and beyond the voice of God in directing God's own children, for whom he gave his only begotten Son?
DOES THE NEW TESTAMENT TEACH TITHING?
There is no doctrine of tithing in the New Testament. There are no instructions saying that they are to be given to anyone or any place, or any other way to use them. There is no tribe, or group, separated from all other Christians, to be considered the only ministers of the New Covenant, designated to receive tithes. The fold or church building is not called the storehouse in any New Testament scriptures. Pastors are not high priest of the New Covenant, for we have only one high priest, our Savior, Jesus Christ the righteous, who lives eternally.
Heb. 7:26+27 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
There are no scriptures telling is that tithes are now to be of money, rather than that which it was supposed to be according to Mosaic Law. We know that much importance is placed on tithing today and that it is the one part of the Old Law that is taught in many denominations, and by pastors and evangelists alike. But the truth is that tithing always has been an integral part of the Mosaic Law, designated only for the tribe of Levi and at certain times, for widows, fatherless and strangers. It's purpose is very clear. It was an important part of a system which has ended and been done away with, on the day that Jesus was crucified.
The fact of what is said so plainly in Collosians, does not stop preachers from bringing this upon men today.
Col. 2:13+14 “ ... Having forgiven you all trespasses;
14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
Nor does the fact that Jesus never once taught even his disciples to tithe, keep ministers today from saying that we must. Preachers read what is said in Galatians 3:13, but still tell people they will be cursed if they do not tithe, which is clearly an old ordinance.
Gal. 3:13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
The fact that our Lord;s disciples never once taught tithing, does not hinder those who teach it today. They have neither Jesus nor the twelve disciples as an example of putting this upon New Testament believers, but they do it just the same.
When the apostle Paul came to the Gentiles, who had never lived by Jewish law, and preached to them the good news of Jesus the Savior, he taught them how to be saved. He taught them many things about how to live a life in Christ. He even spoke to them about giving, but he never once taught them to tithe.
DO YOU SUPPOSE THIS WAS JUST AN OVERSIGHT?
OR A MISTAKE ON THE LORD'S PART, AND ON THE PART OF THE DISCIPLES?
OR, DO YOU SUPPOSE THAT JESUS JUST FIGURED THAT EVEN NON-
JEWS WOULD KNOW, WITHOUT BEING TOLD, THAT THEY SHOULD GO BACK INTO THE LAW WHICH HE HAD ABOLISHED, TAKE OUT
ONLY THAT PART, AND KEEP IT IN THE NEW AND BETTER WAY?
There was a time in the New Testament when questions did arise concerning law and grace, and an interesting conclusion was arrived at. There were some men who came from Judea telling the Christians that they couldn't be saved if they were not circumcised after the manner of Moses. Seeing that God had commanded this of Abraham even before giving Moses the Law, it can be understood why some could still consider this important. (see Gen. 17:10-14)
Circumcision was, after all, a mark in the flesh representing the covenant between God and Abraham. Doesn't it seem reasonable then, to think that all those who receive Jesus as the true Messiah, who was promised to Abraham, should receive the mark of that covenant, in their flesh as well?
Well the apostles and elders got together and had a meeting concerning this issue. As a result they reached a conclusion as to what New Testament believers were and were not required to do, and it was summed up in only two verses of scripture. If we look at this particular incident, we can probably see similarities to situations that arise among Christians today, concerning right and wrong behavior. The conclusion is very enlightening.
Acts 15:1+2 And certain men which came down from Judea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.
2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them,they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.
You can see that these men were not even satisfied with Paul and Barnabas' answers. This was no light matter in their minds.
Paul and Barnabas did go to Jerusalem, and did meet with the apostles and elders. At this meeting some who were Pharisees, who had believed in Jesus as the Messiah, rose up and declared that circumcision and keeping the Law of Moses was needful. So the apostles and elders considered the matter. You can read of this meeting in Acts 15:3-21. But let us look at the letter that was written in conclusion of this important meeting, and delivered to the Gentiles to answer their question.
Acts. 15:24-31 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying Ye must be circumcised , and keep the law of: to whom we gave no such commandment:
25 It seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
26 Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
27 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.
28 For it seemed good the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
29 That you abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well
30 So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle.
31 Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.
Although the question had been whether or not Christians had to be circumcised in order to be saved, by verse 5 we see that it was also a matter of keeping the Law of Moses. Was there to be only one part of the Law brought back into the life of the New Testament believers, and no more? You can see how demanding the keeping of this one Law could bring in many other questions. But in the letter of conclusion it was said that the people had been troubled with words and their souls had been being subverted.
The word 'subverting', in the Greek is anakeuazo, an-ask-yoo-ad'-zo; “from ana (in the sense of reversal) and a der. Of skeuos. Prop. to pack up (baggage), that is, (by implication and fig.) to upset: - subvert.” (Strong's) The Greek Lexicon gives this meaning - “to turn away violently from a right state, to unsettle, subvert.”
By the use of the word 'subvert' then, we get the picture that the words which were troubling the Christians, had the effect of turning them from their correct position in Christ, to an incorrect one, or at least, unsettling them to the point of loosing confidence. They had begun in faith and grace, but as they began to be taught a need to add Mosaic Law to their lives, they were being taught the opposite of grace.
Notice that the false teaching came from men who were probably very knowledgeable in the Law, and coming across very authoritatively; being Pharisees, but they were also very wrong. However as you can see, what seemed good to the Holy Ghost and the apostles, was to lay no greater burden on these Christians than four necessary things
.
Notice also that they said “no greater thing.”
The word 'no' in the Greek is medeis, may-dice'; “not even one (man, woman, or thing: ....” The word 'greater' is pleion, pli-own; neut. Plieon, pli'-on, or pleon, pleh'-on; moer in quantity, number, or quality: ...” (Strong's)
So then, they did not lay even one more thing on the Church that would add one more burden on them, than that they observe these four things, that were necessary. Not circumcision, and no other part of the Mosaic Law. They did not say to observe certain sabbaths or festivals, nor to be faithful in paying tithes. The message was very plain and understandable; simply see to these four things
.
1 Abstain from meats offered to idols.
2 Abstain from blood.
3 Abstain from things strangled.
4 Abstain from fornication.
AGAIN LET ME ASK, DO YOU THINK THAT POSSIBLY THE HOLY GHOST, THE APOSTLES AND THE ELDERS, MADE A MISTAKE?
DO YOU OR I HAVE A RIGHT TO ADD TO THIS LIST AND CALL IT INCOMPLETE?
This issue had obviously been important enough for all of these men to come together and come to a conclusion IN THE HOLY GHOST, and it meant enough to the people at Antioch that the answer given to them brought them consolation and rejoicing. But will the declaration of Paul, Barnabas, Judas, Silas and all the others, be good enough for you and I?
Paul addressed the issue of law to the Galatians.
Gal. 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
However, we find in the very next chapter, that someone spoke words to the Galatians, which must have been presented in such a convincing way, that they began to reconsider how far the walk of faith went, after all. Look what Paul had to say to this.
Gal. 3:1-4 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that you should not OBEY THE TRUTH, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?
2 This only would I learn of you, received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
3 Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain?
How strongly Paul speaks! And how boldly! To try to be justified by the works of the Law is to disobey the truth! Yet how often today, do the same preachers who will proclaim that indeed we are now justified by faith, frustrate grace, as they bring in one singular work, that was clearly of the Law, threaten men with a curse if they do not do this work, and use it as a mark of the true and faithful believer?! Has tithing become the token of the believer's commitment to Christ, as circumcision was the token of the covenant between Abraham and God? (Gen. 17:11)
The word 'token” in Gen 17:11, in the Hebrew is owth, oth; “prob. From 'uwth' (in the sense of appearing); a signal (lit. or fig.), as a flag, beacon, monument, omen, prodigy, evidence, etc. ...” (Strong's)
Jesus did not call for tithes as a token and neither did the apostles. Nonetheless, today men bravely stand behind pulpits calling for it, and denounce and condemn any man who doesn't demonstrate his commitment to Christ by tithing of his earnings! Is there a man so great that he can go above and beyond the voice of God in directing God's own children, for whom he gave his only begotten Son?
Pastors Chapter Eighteen
CHAPTER 18
PASTORS
It has probably been taught more often that pastors and local churches are supposed to receive tithes, than that they should be given to anyone else, or to any other place. This may seem reasonable, since pastors serve congregations continually. Let's look into the Word and see first what is said pertaining to pastors, then go on to what we are told to do when it comes to giving.
The word 'pastor' (singular) is not found in the New Testament, in the King James version of the Bible. The word 'pastors' (plural) is found only once, in Eph. 4:11, which is the verse we looked at earlier concerning gifts of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. There are other words in scripture such as bishop, that according to their meaning and what is said concerning them, could apply to pastors.
Today we think of a pastor as being someone who presides over a local congregation. He is a person who is looked to for guidance and instruction. The New Webster's dictionary descries a pastor as “A minister of the gospel having charge of a church and congregation.”
The word 'pastors' in Eph. 4:11 is the Greek word poimen, poy-mane'; a shepherd (lit. or fig.): - shepherd, pastor. (Strong's) This may be the reason people refer to them as shepherds. However, although the words shepherd and shepherds are found seventeen times in the Bible, they refer to either Jesus himself, who clearly claims to be the good shepherd of the sheep, or to a literal earthly shepherd who actually tends animals.
Jesus said in John 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
Here the word 'shepherd' is the same word in the Greek as the word for pastors found in Eph. 4:11. There is one other New Testament word for shepherd, also. It is archipoimen, ar-khee-poy'-mane; a head shepherd-chief shepherd. (Strong's)
I Peter 5:4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
I have heard the term 'under shepherd' used for pastors, which is a term I am more comfortable with, since Jesus makes his position as Shepherd of his people so very clear.
There was a parable told in Mark, by Jesus, where I believe the role of a pastor is portrayed, as it should be, in the person called a porter. The porter is referred to, by Jesus, twice in the New Testament. Since Jesus is our foundation, it is very good when we can take his own words as a basis for what we believe. So let's consider the parable he gave.
Mark 13:34-37 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.
35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:
36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.
37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
We have already seen who is the house of God. In these scriptures we see a picture of our Lord, having gone into heaven, leaving his house (us) here on earth. And he gave authority to his servants. Indeed we know God has given his people authority while on this earth.
Luke 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
When Jesus returned to his Father, he did not leave his disciples helpless or powerless. He gave each of his children, his individual work to do and gave them the power and authority necessary to do it. You notice, though, that he singled out the porter. The Greek word for 'porter' is thuroros, thoo-ro-ros'; (a watcher) a gate-warden:-that kept the door, porter. (Strong's) Warden means “one who guards, protects, or defends; one charged with the care or custody of something, as a keeper ...” (Webster's)
Gate means “A movable structure used to open or close any passageway; any passageway into and out of an enclosure; ... (Websters)
According to the Lexicon a porter is - “a doorkeeper, porter, male or female janitor. A janitor is - “A person hired to clean and maintain an office, school, or other building; a caretaker of a building. (Webster's)
Keeping this in mind, let's go on and read what else Jesus had to say about the porter and see if you do not see pastors portrayed by the porter.
John 10:1-6 Verily, verily I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
5 And a stranger they will not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
6 This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.
Though those to whom Jesus originally told this parable to, did not understand it's meaning, the Holy Spirit can reveal it's significance to us.
We see in this story, a door to a sheepfold that is guarded by a porter, for the protection of the flock of God, who are his people, his house.
Ps. 95:7 For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today if ye will hear his voice.
If God's people, then, are represented by the sheep, and the sheepfold is the place where the sheep are assembled together, we can see the sheepfold representing a congregation. Though there may be many sheep, when they are assembled together they make up a 'flock'. Even the dictionary (Webster's) gives the meaning - “ ... A church or it's congregation” for the word 'fold'.
Jesus said, at one point, -
John 10:16 Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd.
He indicated that he had more than one fold, or group of Christians, which will one day come together as one fold. Again Jesus showed his heart of unity.
The door or gate in these parables is vitally important, for one must enter the sheepfold through this door to rightfully belong to the flock, or house, or body of Christ. Both the door and those inside the fold must be important, if the Lord appointed someone to stand guard over it.
The porter is the guard or keeper of the door. The Lord specifically commands the porter to 'watch'. He tells 'all' to watch, but makes a point to command the porter in particular. Considering the meaning or the word porter, we can see his responsibilities can include that of guarding, protecting and even keeping the door clean. He is also in control of the opening and closing of the door. The door is so important that if anyone comes into the sheepfold without coming through the door, Jesus calls him a thief and a robber. Notice that he didn't say he is a thief because he took something out through the door some other way, but because he came in without going through the door. We will learn that what is stolen, is stolen from hearts and minds and is not material things.
Jesus went on to interpret the parable, so let's go on and see what he has to say.
John 10:7-15 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I AM THE DOOR of the sheep.
8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.
9 I AM THE DOOR: by ME if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and go in and out, and find pasture.
10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more
abundantly.
11 I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD: the good shepherd GIVETH HIS LIFE for the sheep.
12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth; and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.
13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling: and careth not for the sheep.
14 I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I LAY DOWN MY LIFE for the sheep. (emphasis mine)
First of all Jesus states unmistakably that he is the door. Now it may seem simple enough to see that the only way one can be saved and become a part of the body of Christ, is to come through Jesus. But why would anyone need to guard, protect or keep Jesus clean? The answer is part of a beautiful picture that we can see unfold and should help us understand the will of God.
Jesus made another clear and unmistakable statement in verse 11. He said, “I am the good shepherd”. So he is both the door and the shepherd. Herein lies an awesome truth, which can open the eyes of our understanding, if we grasp the meaning.
Do you recall what Jesus said in John 1:1?
John 1:1 In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God and the word was God ...
In this scripture John shows us that the Word is Jesus, as he goes on describing the Word as having been made flesh, coming unto his own and being the true light. And in Luke 8, the Word of God is described as the seed, which if planted in a heart, that is ready and willing to receive it, and keep it, will grow and bring forth fruit.
Luke 8:11 “ ... The seed is the Word of God.”
Luke 8:15 “But that (seed) on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit WITH PATIENCE. (emphasis and parenthesis mine)
It is the Word of God that must be opened to an individual in order for him to hear the voice of God and be saved, thus entering the body of Christ, the church or fold. The Spirit of God speaks to us through God's Word, and gives life to that Word. So then, the door in this parable can be seen as being Jesus, the living Word of God.
John 6:63 It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
The Greek word for 'quickeneth' is zoopoieo, dzo-op-oy-eh'-o; to (re-) vitalize (lit. or fig.):- make alive again, give life, quicken. (Strong's)
Notice that in this parable in John, Jesus says he is the door, then goes right on to speak of thieves and robbers who came before him, but who the sheep “did not hear”. You see God does speak to us by his Spirit through his Word. We can look at his Spirit as his voice. Men can read scripture to us, then mix it with their own interpretations, opinions, and/or tradition and the Holy Spirit will not give life to it. He will not speak through it. So then, the porter is responsible for opening the door, which we can see as being Jesus the Word, to the sheep. It must be the pure Word, however, so that as he opens the door, the Spirit will bring it to life and the sheep will hear their shepherd's voice through it.
John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, he shall testify of me:
The Holy Spirit, is the Spirit of truth. No one can receive Jesus without the truth. So then, as the Word is opened time and time again, to the new little lambs, they begin to get familiar with the voice of their shepherd, who speaks to them through this door; the Word of God.
As we've already seen, we the sheep are to desire the sincere milk of the Word. But first we must get a taste of it and learn to recognize it.
Ps. 34:8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
Ps. 119:103 How sweet are thy words to my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
When we hear the Word and Jesus speaks to us, by his Spirit through that Word, it becomes food for our inner man, and life and health to us. And it is the porter's responsibility to open that door, the Word, when the sheep are gathered together in the sheepfold, the congregation, so they can hear the shepherd's voice.
John 14:26 But the comforter which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Now we come to the importance of both guarding and keeping the door, the Word, clean. If someone comes into the fold, where the sheep are congregated, without coming through Jesus, the door, by means of true salvation, and begins to guide and instruct God's little ones, his lambs, using deception, before they are familiar with, or accustomed to their shepherd's voice, the sheep may become confused and even rebellious. As these intruders begin to speak words, which in their cunningness, deceive the sheep, they are giving words that contaminate the truth (the sincere milk of the Word), perverts it and even replaces it.
Please do not misunderstand. Jesus himself is never contaminated. But the written word must be anointed by the Holy Spirit, to be alive, and truly be Jesus the living Word. The Holy Spirit cannot accompany, nor anoint, a misrepresentation of the written Word. So then, if scripture is quoted but mixed with untrue teachings of men, then it is contaminated and will kill, rather than give life. The only time there is life in the written Word, is when it is anointed by the Holy Spirit of God.
1Cor. 3:6 “ ... For the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.”
If one sheep is killed by eating contaminated (poisoned) food, fed to him by the enemy of his soul, then there has been a murder and a robbery. When intruders slip into the flock, not coming through the door (Jesus the Word) the truth is stolen from the hearts and minds of the sheep. Such intruders are thieves and robbers. Some come into a flock for the very purpose of stealing and killing, while some being deceived themselves, are not fully aware of how Satan is using them. The job of the porter, then, is extremely important. He must be careful to open the door (Word) faithfully and in all purity, neither mixing in, nor allowing anyone else to mix in, any contaminants. It must be pure and real so that the Shepherd will anoint it and speak through it, and the sheep will come to know his voice very well.
The porter does have authority. But his authority is in the Word, the giving of the Word and protecting the Word, when the flock come together. He only feeds the sheep, as far as opening the Word to them, so they can hear the shepherd's voice and come through the door to pasture. It is up to the sheep to eat.
Yes, the thief does come to steal, to kill and to destroy and it is God's Word he wants to steal, for then destruction will be the result. It is very important that the porter open the door often enough and in large enough quantities, that the shepherd's voice will be heard enough, so that the sheep come to know it well and can distinguish it from all other voices, and will follow no other.
Eph. 4:14+15 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lay in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him (the shepherd) in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
Luke 8:12 “ ... then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.”
Luke 4:4 And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
John 17:17 Sanctify (purify and consecrate ... [Strong's])them through thy truth: thy word is truth. (added notation)
The porter was also commanded to 'watch' and to do so because the doesn't know when the master of the house will be returning. Now I believe this command may be more than to watch the sky for the Lord's return, but also to watch carefully over the door, seeing to it that it is handled in truth and purity, so that when the Lord suddenly arrives, the sheep will recognize his voice immediately.
Look at the Greek word for 'watch' and it's meaning. It is gregoreuo; gray-gor-yoo'-o; to keep awake, that is, watch (lit. or fig.) : - be vigilant, wake, (be) watch (-ful). (Strong's)
The porter needs to watch, or stay awake and be vigilant. He needs to stay alert and mentally acute, and to see to it that the sheep become so themselves. He needs to be watching for the thief, to guard against him and his works, so as to keep the sheep safe and alert.
It is true that all of us should be watching for the Lord's return. But what good will it do to watch, if we do not know how to recognize him? Any sheep who is uncertain of his Shepherd's voice, may follow the wrong voice, wandering into danger and death, thus missing the Lord's return altogether. What a shame it would be for the porter to fall asleep, leaving the door unguarded and let an intruder slip in and deceive the sheep, just before the Lord returns for them! Oh! what a tragedy that would be! Jesus wants all of his people to be able to perceive even minute distinctions in his voice, from the voices of deception. However, far to many so-called Christians are unstable in their beliefs and too easily swayed from one opinion to another.
Can you see how the role of the porter sounds like the role of a pastor, since he stands as a watcher at the door of the sheepfold (congregation), opening the Word to the sheep, and allowing the Lord to speak to his sheep, his people, as the Spirit of the living God moves and anoints? And do you see how, also, that he is to guard the Word, but never present himself as the voice of the Shepherd, but rather to teach the sheep to learn to hear and know the voice of their one and only good Shepherd?
Now consider for a moment, where it is that the sheep actually pasture.
WHAT DO THE SCRIPTURES SAY?
DO THEY PASTURE INSIDE THE FOLD
John 10:3+4 “ ... and he calleth his own sheep by name, and LEADETH
THEM OUT.
4 And when he PUTTETH FORTH his OWN sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
John 10:9 I AM THE DOOR: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go IN AND OUT and find pasture. (emphasis mine)
It is Jesus who calls to his own sheep, by his own voice, his precious Holy Spirit, through the Word, and as they hear his voice, they follow 'him', not the porter! Then Jesus leads them outside of the fold (congregation) to pasture. You see, each individual, based on his own life's experiences, is at a different place in his spiritual, emotional and mental growth and understanding. So the good Shepherd leads each person, individually, outside the congregation, to pasture, where, and on what they need, and to commune with him alone. The grass upon which they graze must be green, fresh, not stale, but pure, alive and suited to their individual digestive system. Group feeding alone is not adequate to meet an individual's needs for proper growth and good spiritual health.
If a pastor attempts to confine the sheep to total dependency on himself, as their so-called spiritual authority, as though he is the one who hears from God for them, he is doing wrong and harming the sheep. Such a thing will produce sickly sheep. Through the opening of the door (Word), sheep get a glimpse of the Shepherd. Their ears perk up as they hear his voice, not the porter's, then they follow the one God intends for them to follow.
LET ME ASK THOSE OF YOU WHO SERVE AS PASTORS; WHO IS IT YOU TRULY WISH TO GLORIFY?
WOULD YOU PREFER THE PRAISE AND GLORY OF MEN, OR THE ETERNAL REWARD OF GOD?
You who are pastors have such an extremely important role! Standing watch over God's Word, that the voices of counterfeits do not mingle in the flock, confusing and leading astray. Pointing the sheep back to the door (Word), where the true voice can be heard. But please, pastors, whatever you do, do not try to be God's voice, or, that is, the Holy Spirit, for the sheep. You cannot be the convicting power of God. God is fully capable of doing his job efficiently. Let him do it. But perform your calling through 'him'! It really is enough!
It is Jesus who goes before the sheep. It is Jesus who 'putteth forth his sheep. The Greek Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'putteth' , “to let them out of the fold so they can rush forth, [al. to thrust them by laying hold of them.]
When Jesus gets hold of the hearts of his sheep, they rush hungrily for pasture. They should rush from the congregation to a place alone with Jesus and his Word, having received enough and heard enough of his voice to cause them to desire him, and to hunger and thirst for him and his righteousness!
Matt. 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
We live in a time when our world is filled with many many voices. There are so many men considered to be men of God, but whose messages oppose each other, while all are supposedly based on scripture. Many are the messages that come across the air waves through radio and television. How can the sheep ever truly know their master's voice? The day in which we are living sounds, indeed, like the time spoken of in 2 Timothy -
2 Tim. 4:3+4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
The more you scratch an itch, the more it itches, and it is so hard to get relief! The medicine that will stop an itch may burn before it soothes. But relief can be had with the proper ointment. So it is for many today. They heap to themselves teachers, but their itching ears are not soothed for long. The truth would set them free, but at first it may sting and burn somewhat, as the truth of their condition is realized. Oh! But how wonderful is the soothing and peace that follows!
No matter how many sermons one listens to, if it is not the pure, true Word of God, and the Holy Spirit does not speak through it, it is powerless. We have no lack of these sermons and teachings in today's church world. As a result we have people walking around claiming the title of 'Christian' denying the true power that comes with godliness, and living in sin at the same time.
2 Tim.. 3:5-7 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts.
7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Oh, how the church needs pastors who faithfully, humbly and carefully present the name of Jesus, his authority and character, without imposing their own authority in Jesus name! When you know the character of a person it is harder to believe a lie about them, that does not agree with their character. God is love and therefore love is the foundation of all truth.
1Cor. 8:1 “ ... knowledge puffeth up, but charity (love [Strong's]) edifieth. (added notation)
Men become puffed up, or that is, proud of their knowledge, but it is love that will build the kingdom of God. The sheep need pastors who guard the Word and not self interest.
I am afraid that there are far too many men today, who work as pastors, for wages, but do not know enough of the pure Word of God themselves to guard it, protect it and open it to God's flock. There is a need for less hirelings and more servants of love. The Greek word for 'hireling' is misthotos, mis-tho-tos'; “a wage worker (good or bad): - hired servant, hireling.” (Strong's)
Hirelings do not have the heart to truly protect the sheep, for their love, if they have any, is too limited, while self preservation, self ambition and self recognition are in the way. Those who pastor simply as an occupation and not out of love and concern for God's little ones, are hirelings who will run away when the wolf comes. Look at what Peter had to say.
1 Peter 5:1-4 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed.
2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lure, but of a ready mind;
3 Neither as Lords over Gods heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
4 And when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
The word 'elders' here, is the Greek word presbuteras, pres-boo'-ter-os; comp. of presbus (elderly); older; as a noun, a senior ...” The word oversight is the Greek word episkopeo. ep-ee-skop-eh'-o; ... by impl. to beware: - look diligently, take the oversight, (Strong's)
Peter recognizes the older men as qualifying for this position, for even in verse 5, he says -
“Likewise ye, younger, submit one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
So Peter tells the elders to feed the flock which is among them, taking the oversight thereof. Now he may be telling them to diligently watch over the flock, or, more specifically, to oversee the feeding of the flock. Doesn't this, once again, sound like the job of the porter, or watcher of the door, the Word? It is, after all, the Word, that the sheep are to eat and live on.
Peter told these elders not to do, what they do, by constraint and not for filthy lucre. The Greek word for 'constraint; is anagkastos, an-ang-kas-toce'; “compulsorily: - by constraint.” (Strong's) Compulsorily means: Compelling; enforced: mandatory. (Webster's)
So whether you interpret this to be telling the elders not to feed the flock because they feel obligated or constrained to do so, or, rather, to be telling them not to constrain or demand of the flock, both would agree with God's character.
As far as not serving the flock in this capacity for filthy lucre, the meaning given for this in the Greek Lexicon is, “for eagerness for base gain.” They were not to be after selfish profit, for that would put them in the category of an hireling.
Peter told the elders to do this service of a ready mind. Ready, in the Greek is - prothumos, proth'-oo-mos; “forward in spirit, that is, predisposed; neut. (as a noun) alacrity: ready, willing.” (Strong's)
Alacrity means “cheerful willingness; briskness. (Webster's)
This was to be a service rendered willingly, because it was in their heart to do so.
John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.
1John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Love will motivate a man to serve his brother for his brother's good. Money and self advancement will never be acceptable motivation to God.
Peter further tells them not to act as “lords over God's heritage. He makes an important point here, as he points out who the flock actually belongs to. They are God's heritage! As a result of the death and resurrection of Jesus himself, all of his children are now the heritage of God. They are his own! And he will not have leaders acting as lords over 'his' inheritance!
The word 'lords' is the same word in the Greek as the word for 'exercise dominion' used in Matt. 20:25, when Jesus forbid his disciples to exercise dominion over each other.
1Cor. 7:23 You are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.
We are to serve one another from willing hearts of love, but not as though owned or controlled by people; for we know who our Lord and Savior is, and to him only do we belong.
The elders were told to be ensamples, which according to the Strong's Concordance, is “ ... a model (for imitation) ... en – (ex-) ample ...” to the flock, but were never to usurp the Shepherd's position over the sheep. Their reward would come from the Chief Shepherd when he returns. And he will return! We must watch and be ready! How valuable are elders, or pastors, with true hearts after God! And how dangerous are the hirelings who, too often, fill pulpits!
Rom. 10:14+15 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
We've already seen how that God rewards a person who gives even a cup of cold water to one of his little children. What a reward awaits him who serves God's little ones night and day, in love and in the Word of God!
On the other hand, what sort of a reward awaits those who are hirelings and leave the sheep unprotected? We will each face God when he returns.
Luke 13:24+25 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door saying, Lord, Lord, open to us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know not whence ye are:
Or as the Greek Lexicon says, “from what place:. In other words, I know not from what place ye are. You may ask, -
AT WHAT POINT WILL GOD CLOSE THE DOOR?
FOR WHAT REASON WOULD HE SHUT THE DOOR?
IS THIS ABOUT THE RAPTURE OR IF ONE COMMITS THE UNPARDONABLE SIN?
There are probably a variety of thoughts on this, and I will not claim to have the complete understanding with which to answer such questions. However, I do think it would be good to consider how that to some degree, the door could be, being shut, in many churches across America today. Notice that the gate we are to strive to enter in at, is the 'strait' gate. This word, in the Greek is stenos, sten-os'; “narrow (from obstacles standing close about): - strait. (Strong's) And the word 'strive' is agonizomai, ag-o-nid'-zom-ahee; “to struggle, lit. (to compete for a prize), fig. (to contend with an adversary), or gen. (to endeavor to accomplish something): - fight, labour fervently, strive. (Strong's)
We have already spoken of the many voices that are in the world, and of the thieves and robbers, which the porter is to guard against. And we know that before a person is saved, there are many obstacles that serve to distract or hinder us from accepting the Word into our hearts and in turn, giving our all to Jesus. But remember also that after salvation the sheep go in and out, following the Shepherd to pasture and rest. Our enemy, Satan, doesn't stop trying to steal the Word from our hearts after we're saved. He works from the outside but also from inside the fold.
Acts 20:28-31 Take therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch and remember that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
HOW COULD THIS HAPPEN?
Yet Paul said that he knew it would happen. It was such an important issue that Paul had warned them night and day for three years, even with tears! If it was so important to Paul, should it not be important to us also? It must be! He surely did not warn them so long and with such fervency, just to have it forgotten!
Do you think that the sheep could be easily drawn away from their Shepherd if they had a constant and close relationship with him, and were communing with him daily, listening to his voice?
When young lambs listen to pastors who preach some truth but contaminate it with worldly attitudes, to make it easier to accept, without being in obvious opposition to worldly views, then this can happen. Or when pastors mix the Word with personal interpretations, and personal opinions, based only on carnal thinking, or even false teaching, until the Shepherd no longer speaks through it, the sheep will not be certain of his voice. The Holy Spirit is not going to anoint the Word presented falsely, so in a sense, the door will be shut. The sheep are then left with a written letter which kills, and no Spirit of God to give it life. (2 Cor. 3:60
Satan is very cunning in the strategies he uses against the kingdom of God. He doesn't always approach the sheep showing his true face or his true purpose. (see Gen. 3:1) Rather, he changes his true appearance to, not only be one of the sheep, but even to be a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, who has come to illuminate the Word of God to his people.
2Cor. 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
DEAR ONE, WHAT DO THE SCRIPTURES SAY?
FALSE WHAT?
DECEITFUL WHAT?
These people present themselves as disciples of Christ! Satan comes pretending to be an angel of light. The Strong's Concordance gives the meaning for 'angel' here, as, “a messenger; esp. an “angel”; by impl. a pastor: ...”
So they come posing as messengers of light. Who is the true light, but Jesus himself? They come as messengers of Jesus! Even as pastors!
Matt. 7:15+16 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Dear child of God, not every man who carries a minister's license, wears a robe or a backwards collar, or even holds the position of pastor, is a true man of God. We live in a world of deceivers. The word 'transforming' in 2 Cor. 11:13, in the Greek is, metaschematizp, met-aksh-ay-mat-id'-zo; to transfigure or disguise; fig. to apply (by accommodation): transfer, transform (self); to change. (Strong's)
Some Christians worry and disapprove of what messages are being given to children through the media, and rightly so. Yet while teenage mutant turtles have played on television, how many adults listened to evil mutant ministers from the pulpit, whose outward appearance was of sweetness and concern? Ministers who seem to carry a message of righteousness and appear to shine the 'light' on God's Word, but inwardly their goal is destruction of God's flock. This may sound a little far fetched, but if Paul warned the disciples might and day, for three years of just such happenings, then it must be a reality.
Do you think the Word they present is truly anointed by the Spirit of God, when given a false meaning, or does God shut the door and walk away?
Some men hold positions of pastors, but are only hirelings working for money. Some are impostures posing as something they are not. Some are men truly called of God, but who are failing to guard the Word as they ought, desiring approval and praise of men over that of God. Some are true pastors doing the best they know, to present the Word in truth and purity. The Chief Shepherd is going to come suddenly one day. And one day he will separate the sheep from those goats who have moved into the sheep fold and mixed with the sheep. Then he will close the door and it will be too late for many.
Now, dear child of God, please do not be frightened by all this, but turn to God with your whole heart and learn to know your master's voice well. God will lead you. But remember, we must do more than seek, we must also strive, or labor fervently. As we saw in the meaning of the word 'strive', we must fight. We have an enemy to contend with. But we can win, if we put the battle into God's hands.
The word 'seek' in Luke 13:24, where Jesus says that many will seek to enter in, is, in the Greek, zeto, dzay-teh'-o; “to seek (lit. or fig.); spec. (by Heb.) to worship (God), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life): - be (go) about, desire, endeavor, enquire (for), require, (x will) seek, (after, for, means).” (Strong's)
You can do all sorts of forms of worship; sing, dance and shout. You can ask all sorts of questions, make all sorts of inquiries, research and investigations, as you try to enter in to the body of Christ. But if that is what your seeking involves, it will not be enough. You must submit to God totally. And be prepared to do battle in the strength of the one who has defeated Satan at Calvary, so that you will not be one of those to whom the Lord will say – Luke 13:25 “ ... I know you not whence ye are:.”, but will, rather, be one to whom he will say -
Matt. 25:34 “ ... Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:” -
Because you knew your master's voice and obeyed it.
Matt. 25:31+32 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
32 And before him shall be gathered all nations; and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
Although we live in a time when the words which Jesus spoke to the scribes and Pharisees, could be said of many in the church world, it does not have to be true of you and I. Jesus said -
Matt. 15:8+9 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips: but their heart is far from me.
9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
If you are now sitting under a pastor where you are unable to clearly distinguish the voice of God, you may need to make a change. But you can rest assured that God does want to speak to you through his Word, by his Spirit, and to have a personal relationship with you. Surrender your all to him, then begin to read the Word and ask him for understanding. He is willing to guide you into all truth.
Each man or woman who holds the position of pastor, must answer to God for what they do in relationship to the Word and God's sheep. If a pastor is serving God's little ones faithfully, carefully and according to God's Word, God is with him and will bless him. This man is a blessing to the church and a true servant. As such he should be honored, loved and appreciated as a gift from God, though he does not seek honor from men. Such a man is not too easy to come by and should never be taken for granted. Those who he serves should love him and look to his needs, to supply those needs as God leads and gives the ability.
Never fear, dear pastor, God is always faithful and will see to it you are cared for, if you trust him. Remember what Peter told the elders in 1 Peter. -
1 Peter 5:5-9 ... God resisteth the proud, and giveth 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 care upon him; for he careth for you.
8 Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking who he may devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
Pastor you are not alone in the afflictions you go through. The Greek word for 'afflictions' is pathema, path'-ay-mah; “something undergone, that is, hardship or pain; subj. an emotion or influence:- ...”
All the brotherhood in Christ must deal with these things. So remain humble, cast all your care on Jesus, and he will always care for you. Just see what he will do for the servant who trusts him as Abraham did. Never place your trust in the obedience of other men, for your life's support, for God will keep his Word to you, when you trust and obey, even if others should rebel and forsake you.
Rejoice! Be at peace! Let God be your portion and you will have nothing to fear! For the child of God there is peace even in the valley and provision even in the face of enemies!
Ps. 24:1 The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
Ps. 23:5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou annointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Go with me now and let us see what instructions and/or guidelines are given in the New Testament concerning tithing and how ministers of the gospel are to be supported. God does have a plan of action, and it is the best!
PASTORS
It has probably been taught more often that pastors and local churches are supposed to receive tithes, than that they should be given to anyone else, or to any other place. This may seem reasonable, since pastors serve congregations continually. Let's look into the Word and see first what is said pertaining to pastors, then go on to what we are told to do when it comes to giving.
The word 'pastor' (singular) is not found in the New Testament, in the King James version of the Bible. The word 'pastors' (plural) is found only once, in Eph. 4:11, which is the verse we looked at earlier concerning gifts of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. There are other words in scripture such as bishop, that according to their meaning and what is said concerning them, could apply to pastors.
Today we think of a pastor as being someone who presides over a local congregation. He is a person who is looked to for guidance and instruction. The New Webster's dictionary descries a pastor as “A minister of the gospel having charge of a church and congregation.”
The word 'pastors' in Eph. 4:11 is the Greek word poimen, poy-mane'; a shepherd (lit. or fig.): - shepherd, pastor. (Strong's) This may be the reason people refer to them as shepherds. However, although the words shepherd and shepherds are found seventeen times in the Bible, they refer to either Jesus himself, who clearly claims to be the good shepherd of the sheep, or to a literal earthly shepherd who actually tends animals.
Jesus said in John 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
Here the word 'shepherd' is the same word in the Greek as the word for pastors found in Eph. 4:11. There is one other New Testament word for shepherd, also. It is archipoimen, ar-khee-poy'-mane; a head shepherd-chief shepherd. (Strong's)
I Peter 5:4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
I have heard the term 'under shepherd' used for pastors, which is a term I am more comfortable with, since Jesus makes his position as Shepherd of his people so very clear.
There was a parable told in Mark, by Jesus, where I believe the role of a pastor is portrayed, as it should be, in the person called a porter. The porter is referred to, by Jesus, twice in the New Testament. Since Jesus is our foundation, it is very good when we can take his own words as a basis for what we believe. So let's consider the parable he gave.
Mark 13:34-37 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.
35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:
36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.
37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
We have already seen who is the house of God. In these scriptures we see a picture of our Lord, having gone into heaven, leaving his house (us) here on earth. And he gave authority to his servants. Indeed we know God has given his people authority while on this earth.
Luke 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
When Jesus returned to his Father, he did not leave his disciples helpless or powerless. He gave each of his children, his individual work to do and gave them the power and authority necessary to do it. You notice, though, that he singled out the porter. The Greek word for 'porter' is thuroros, thoo-ro-ros'; (a watcher) a gate-warden:-that kept the door, porter. (Strong's) Warden means “one who guards, protects, or defends; one charged with the care or custody of something, as a keeper ...” (Webster's)
Gate means “A movable structure used to open or close any passageway; any passageway into and out of an enclosure; ... (Websters)
According to the Lexicon a porter is - “a doorkeeper, porter, male or female janitor. A janitor is - “A person hired to clean and maintain an office, school, or other building; a caretaker of a building. (Webster's)
Keeping this in mind, let's go on and read what else Jesus had to say about the porter and see if you do not see pastors portrayed by the porter.
John 10:1-6 Verily, verily I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
5 And a stranger they will not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
6 This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.
Though those to whom Jesus originally told this parable to, did not understand it's meaning, the Holy Spirit can reveal it's significance to us.
We see in this story, a door to a sheepfold that is guarded by a porter, for the protection of the flock of God, who are his people, his house.
Ps. 95:7 For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today if ye will hear his voice.
If God's people, then, are represented by the sheep, and the sheepfold is the place where the sheep are assembled together, we can see the sheepfold representing a congregation. Though there may be many sheep, when they are assembled together they make up a 'flock'. Even the dictionary (Webster's) gives the meaning - “ ... A church or it's congregation” for the word 'fold'.
Jesus said, at one point, -
John 10:16 Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd.
He indicated that he had more than one fold, or group of Christians, which will one day come together as one fold. Again Jesus showed his heart of unity.
The door or gate in these parables is vitally important, for one must enter the sheepfold through this door to rightfully belong to the flock, or house, or body of Christ. Both the door and those inside the fold must be important, if the Lord appointed someone to stand guard over it.
The porter is the guard or keeper of the door. The Lord specifically commands the porter to 'watch'. He tells 'all' to watch, but makes a point to command the porter in particular. Considering the meaning or the word porter, we can see his responsibilities can include that of guarding, protecting and even keeping the door clean. He is also in control of the opening and closing of the door. The door is so important that if anyone comes into the sheepfold without coming through the door, Jesus calls him a thief and a robber. Notice that he didn't say he is a thief because he took something out through the door some other way, but because he came in without going through the door. We will learn that what is stolen, is stolen from hearts and minds and is not material things.
Jesus went on to interpret the parable, so let's go on and see what he has to say.
John 10:7-15 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I AM THE DOOR of the sheep.
8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.
9 I AM THE DOOR: by ME if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and go in and out, and find pasture.
10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more
abundantly.
11 I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD: the good shepherd GIVETH HIS LIFE for the sheep.
12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth; and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.
13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling: and careth not for the sheep.
14 I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I LAY DOWN MY LIFE for the sheep. (emphasis mine)
First of all Jesus states unmistakably that he is the door. Now it may seem simple enough to see that the only way one can be saved and become a part of the body of Christ, is to come through Jesus. But why would anyone need to guard, protect or keep Jesus clean? The answer is part of a beautiful picture that we can see unfold and should help us understand the will of God.
Jesus made another clear and unmistakable statement in verse 11. He said, “I am the good shepherd”. So he is both the door and the shepherd. Herein lies an awesome truth, which can open the eyes of our understanding, if we grasp the meaning.
Do you recall what Jesus said in John 1:1?
John 1:1 In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God and the word was God ...
In this scripture John shows us that the Word is Jesus, as he goes on describing the Word as having been made flesh, coming unto his own and being the true light. And in Luke 8, the Word of God is described as the seed, which if planted in a heart, that is ready and willing to receive it, and keep it, will grow and bring forth fruit.
Luke 8:11 “ ... The seed is the Word of God.”
Luke 8:15 “But that (seed) on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit WITH PATIENCE. (emphasis and parenthesis mine)
It is the Word of God that must be opened to an individual in order for him to hear the voice of God and be saved, thus entering the body of Christ, the church or fold. The Spirit of God speaks to us through God's Word, and gives life to that Word. So then, the door in this parable can be seen as being Jesus, the living Word of God.
John 6:63 It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
The Greek word for 'quickeneth' is zoopoieo, dzo-op-oy-eh'-o; to (re-) vitalize (lit. or fig.):- make alive again, give life, quicken. (Strong's)
Notice that in this parable in John, Jesus says he is the door, then goes right on to speak of thieves and robbers who came before him, but who the sheep “did not hear”. You see God does speak to us by his Spirit through his Word. We can look at his Spirit as his voice. Men can read scripture to us, then mix it with their own interpretations, opinions, and/or tradition and the Holy Spirit will not give life to it. He will not speak through it. So then, the porter is responsible for opening the door, which we can see as being Jesus the Word, to the sheep. It must be the pure Word, however, so that as he opens the door, the Spirit will bring it to life and the sheep will hear their shepherd's voice through it.
John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, he shall testify of me:
The Holy Spirit, is the Spirit of truth. No one can receive Jesus without the truth. So then, as the Word is opened time and time again, to the new little lambs, they begin to get familiar with the voice of their shepherd, who speaks to them through this door; the Word of God.
As we've already seen, we the sheep are to desire the sincere milk of the Word. But first we must get a taste of it and learn to recognize it.
Ps. 34:8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
Ps. 119:103 How sweet are thy words to my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
When we hear the Word and Jesus speaks to us, by his Spirit through that Word, it becomes food for our inner man, and life and health to us. And it is the porter's responsibility to open that door, the Word, when the sheep are gathered together in the sheepfold, the congregation, so they can hear the shepherd's voice.
John 14:26 But the comforter which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Now we come to the importance of both guarding and keeping the door, the Word, clean. If someone comes into the fold, where the sheep are congregated, without coming through Jesus, the door, by means of true salvation, and begins to guide and instruct God's little ones, his lambs, using deception, before they are familiar with, or accustomed to their shepherd's voice, the sheep may become confused and even rebellious. As these intruders begin to speak words, which in their cunningness, deceive the sheep, they are giving words that contaminate the truth (the sincere milk of the Word), perverts it and even replaces it.
Please do not misunderstand. Jesus himself is never contaminated. But the written word must be anointed by the Holy Spirit, to be alive, and truly be Jesus the living Word. The Holy Spirit cannot accompany, nor anoint, a misrepresentation of the written Word. So then, if scripture is quoted but mixed with untrue teachings of men, then it is contaminated and will kill, rather than give life. The only time there is life in the written Word, is when it is anointed by the Holy Spirit of God.
1Cor. 3:6 “ ... For the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.”
If one sheep is killed by eating contaminated (poisoned) food, fed to him by the enemy of his soul, then there has been a murder and a robbery. When intruders slip into the flock, not coming through the door (Jesus the Word) the truth is stolen from the hearts and minds of the sheep. Such intruders are thieves and robbers. Some come into a flock for the very purpose of stealing and killing, while some being deceived themselves, are not fully aware of how Satan is using them. The job of the porter, then, is extremely important. He must be careful to open the door (Word) faithfully and in all purity, neither mixing in, nor allowing anyone else to mix in, any contaminants. It must be pure and real so that the Shepherd will anoint it and speak through it, and the sheep will come to know his voice very well.
The porter does have authority. But his authority is in the Word, the giving of the Word and protecting the Word, when the flock come together. He only feeds the sheep, as far as opening the Word to them, so they can hear the shepherd's voice and come through the door to pasture. It is up to the sheep to eat.
Yes, the thief does come to steal, to kill and to destroy and it is God's Word he wants to steal, for then destruction will be the result. It is very important that the porter open the door often enough and in large enough quantities, that the shepherd's voice will be heard enough, so that the sheep come to know it well and can distinguish it from all other voices, and will follow no other.
Eph. 4:14+15 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lay in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him (the shepherd) in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
Luke 8:12 “ ... then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.”
Luke 4:4 And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
John 17:17 Sanctify (purify and consecrate ... [Strong's])them through thy truth: thy word is truth. (added notation)
The porter was also commanded to 'watch' and to do so because the doesn't know when the master of the house will be returning. Now I believe this command may be more than to watch the sky for the Lord's return, but also to watch carefully over the door, seeing to it that it is handled in truth and purity, so that when the Lord suddenly arrives, the sheep will recognize his voice immediately.
Look at the Greek word for 'watch' and it's meaning. It is gregoreuo; gray-gor-yoo'-o; to keep awake, that is, watch (lit. or fig.) : - be vigilant, wake, (be) watch (-ful). (Strong's)
The porter needs to watch, or stay awake and be vigilant. He needs to stay alert and mentally acute, and to see to it that the sheep become so themselves. He needs to be watching for the thief, to guard against him and his works, so as to keep the sheep safe and alert.
It is true that all of us should be watching for the Lord's return. But what good will it do to watch, if we do not know how to recognize him? Any sheep who is uncertain of his Shepherd's voice, may follow the wrong voice, wandering into danger and death, thus missing the Lord's return altogether. What a shame it would be for the porter to fall asleep, leaving the door unguarded and let an intruder slip in and deceive the sheep, just before the Lord returns for them! Oh! what a tragedy that would be! Jesus wants all of his people to be able to perceive even minute distinctions in his voice, from the voices of deception. However, far to many so-called Christians are unstable in their beliefs and too easily swayed from one opinion to another.
Can you see how the role of the porter sounds like the role of a pastor, since he stands as a watcher at the door of the sheepfold (congregation), opening the Word to the sheep, and allowing the Lord to speak to his sheep, his people, as the Spirit of the living God moves and anoints? And do you see how, also, that he is to guard the Word, but never present himself as the voice of the Shepherd, but rather to teach the sheep to learn to hear and know the voice of their one and only good Shepherd?
Now consider for a moment, where it is that the sheep actually pasture.
WHAT DO THE SCRIPTURES SAY?
DO THEY PASTURE INSIDE THE FOLD
John 10:3+4 “ ... and he calleth his own sheep by name, and LEADETH
THEM OUT.
4 And when he PUTTETH FORTH his OWN sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
John 10:9 I AM THE DOOR: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go IN AND OUT and find pasture. (emphasis mine)
It is Jesus who calls to his own sheep, by his own voice, his precious Holy Spirit, through the Word, and as they hear his voice, they follow 'him', not the porter! Then Jesus leads them outside of the fold (congregation) to pasture. You see, each individual, based on his own life's experiences, is at a different place in his spiritual, emotional and mental growth and understanding. So the good Shepherd leads each person, individually, outside the congregation, to pasture, where, and on what they need, and to commune with him alone. The grass upon which they graze must be green, fresh, not stale, but pure, alive and suited to their individual digestive system. Group feeding alone is not adequate to meet an individual's needs for proper growth and good spiritual health.
If a pastor attempts to confine the sheep to total dependency on himself, as their so-called spiritual authority, as though he is the one who hears from God for them, he is doing wrong and harming the sheep. Such a thing will produce sickly sheep. Through the opening of the door (Word), sheep get a glimpse of the Shepherd. Their ears perk up as they hear his voice, not the porter's, then they follow the one God intends for them to follow.
LET ME ASK THOSE OF YOU WHO SERVE AS PASTORS; WHO IS IT YOU TRULY WISH TO GLORIFY?
WOULD YOU PREFER THE PRAISE AND GLORY OF MEN, OR THE ETERNAL REWARD OF GOD?
You who are pastors have such an extremely important role! Standing watch over God's Word, that the voices of counterfeits do not mingle in the flock, confusing and leading astray. Pointing the sheep back to the door (Word), where the true voice can be heard. But please, pastors, whatever you do, do not try to be God's voice, or, that is, the Holy Spirit, for the sheep. You cannot be the convicting power of God. God is fully capable of doing his job efficiently. Let him do it. But perform your calling through 'him'! It really is enough!
It is Jesus who goes before the sheep. It is Jesus who 'putteth forth his sheep. The Greek Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'putteth' , “to let them out of the fold so they can rush forth, [al. to thrust them by laying hold of them.]
When Jesus gets hold of the hearts of his sheep, they rush hungrily for pasture. They should rush from the congregation to a place alone with Jesus and his Word, having received enough and heard enough of his voice to cause them to desire him, and to hunger and thirst for him and his righteousness!
Matt. 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
We live in a time when our world is filled with many many voices. There are so many men considered to be men of God, but whose messages oppose each other, while all are supposedly based on scripture. Many are the messages that come across the air waves through radio and television. How can the sheep ever truly know their master's voice? The day in which we are living sounds, indeed, like the time spoken of in 2 Timothy -
2 Tim. 4:3+4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
The more you scratch an itch, the more it itches, and it is so hard to get relief! The medicine that will stop an itch may burn before it soothes. But relief can be had with the proper ointment. So it is for many today. They heap to themselves teachers, but their itching ears are not soothed for long. The truth would set them free, but at first it may sting and burn somewhat, as the truth of their condition is realized. Oh! But how wonderful is the soothing and peace that follows!
No matter how many sermons one listens to, if it is not the pure, true Word of God, and the Holy Spirit does not speak through it, it is powerless. We have no lack of these sermons and teachings in today's church world. As a result we have people walking around claiming the title of 'Christian' denying the true power that comes with godliness, and living in sin at the same time.
2 Tim.. 3:5-7 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts.
7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Oh, how the church needs pastors who faithfully, humbly and carefully present the name of Jesus, his authority and character, without imposing their own authority in Jesus name! When you know the character of a person it is harder to believe a lie about them, that does not agree with their character. God is love and therefore love is the foundation of all truth.
1Cor. 8:1 “ ... knowledge puffeth up, but charity (love [Strong's]) edifieth. (added notation)
Men become puffed up, or that is, proud of their knowledge, but it is love that will build the kingdom of God. The sheep need pastors who guard the Word and not self interest.
I am afraid that there are far too many men today, who work as pastors, for wages, but do not know enough of the pure Word of God themselves to guard it, protect it and open it to God's flock. There is a need for less hirelings and more servants of love. The Greek word for 'hireling' is misthotos, mis-tho-tos'; “a wage worker (good or bad): - hired servant, hireling.” (Strong's)
Hirelings do not have the heart to truly protect the sheep, for their love, if they have any, is too limited, while self preservation, self ambition and self recognition are in the way. Those who pastor simply as an occupation and not out of love and concern for God's little ones, are hirelings who will run away when the wolf comes. Look at what Peter had to say.
1 Peter 5:1-4 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed.
2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lure, but of a ready mind;
3 Neither as Lords over Gods heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
4 And when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
The word 'elders' here, is the Greek word presbuteras, pres-boo'-ter-os; comp. of presbus (elderly); older; as a noun, a senior ...” The word oversight is the Greek word episkopeo. ep-ee-skop-eh'-o; ... by impl. to beware: - look diligently, take the oversight, (Strong's)
Peter recognizes the older men as qualifying for this position, for even in verse 5, he says -
“Likewise ye, younger, submit one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
So Peter tells the elders to feed the flock which is among them, taking the oversight thereof. Now he may be telling them to diligently watch over the flock, or, more specifically, to oversee the feeding of the flock. Doesn't this, once again, sound like the job of the porter, or watcher of the door, the Word? It is, after all, the Word, that the sheep are to eat and live on.
Peter told these elders not to do, what they do, by constraint and not for filthy lucre. The Greek word for 'constraint; is anagkastos, an-ang-kas-toce'; “compulsorily: - by constraint.” (Strong's) Compulsorily means: Compelling; enforced: mandatory. (Webster's)
So whether you interpret this to be telling the elders not to feed the flock because they feel obligated or constrained to do so, or, rather, to be telling them not to constrain or demand of the flock, both would agree with God's character.
As far as not serving the flock in this capacity for filthy lucre, the meaning given for this in the Greek Lexicon is, “for eagerness for base gain.” They were not to be after selfish profit, for that would put them in the category of an hireling.
Peter told the elders to do this service of a ready mind. Ready, in the Greek is - prothumos, proth'-oo-mos; “forward in spirit, that is, predisposed; neut. (as a noun) alacrity: ready, willing.” (Strong's)
Alacrity means “cheerful willingness; briskness. (Webster's)
This was to be a service rendered willingly, because it was in their heart to do so.
John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.
1John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Love will motivate a man to serve his brother for his brother's good. Money and self advancement will never be acceptable motivation to God.
Peter further tells them not to act as “lords over God's heritage. He makes an important point here, as he points out who the flock actually belongs to. They are God's heritage! As a result of the death and resurrection of Jesus himself, all of his children are now the heritage of God. They are his own! And he will not have leaders acting as lords over 'his' inheritance!
The word 'lords' is the same word in the Greek as the word for 'exercise dominion' used in Matt. 20:25, when Jesus forbid his disciples to exercise dominion over each other.
1Cor. 7:23 You are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.
We are to serve one another from willing hearts of love, but not as though owned or controlled by people; for we know who our Lord and Savior is, and to him only do we belong.
The elders were told to be ensamples, which according to the Strong's Concordance, is “ ... a model (for imitation) ... en – (ex-) ample ...” to the flock, but were never to usurp the Shepherd's position over the sheep. Their reward would come from the Chief Shepherd when he returns. And he will return! We must watch and be ready! How valuable are elders, or pastors, with true hearts after God! And how dangerous are the hirelings who, too often, fill pulpits!
Rom. 10:14+15 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
We've already seen how that God rewards a person who gives even a cup of cold water to one of his little children. What a reward awaits him who serves God's little ones night and day, in love and in the Word of God!
On the other hand, what sort of a reward awaits those who are hirelings and leave the sheep unprotected? We will each face God when he returns.
Luke 13:24+25 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door saying, Lord, Lord, open to us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know not whence ye are:
Or as the Greek Lexicon says, “from what place:. In other words, I know not from what place ye are. You may ask, -
AT WHAT POINT WILL GOD CLOSE THE DOOR?
FOR WHAT REASON WOULD HE SHUT THE DOOR?
IS THIS ABOUT THE RAPTURE OR IF ONE COMMITS THE UNPARDONABLE SIN?
There are probably a variety of thoughts on this, and I will not claim to have the complete understanding with which to answer such questions. However, I do think it would be good to consider how that to some degree, the door could be, being shut, in many churches across America today. Notice that the gate we are to strive to enter in at, is the 'strait' gate. This word, in the Greek is stenos, sten-os'; “narrow (from obstacles standing close about): - strait. (Strong's) And the word 'strive' is agonizomai, ag-o-nid'-zom-ahee; “to struggle, lit. (to compete for a prize), fig. (to contend with an adversary), or gen. (to endeavor to accomplish something): - fight, labour fervently, strive. (Strong's)
We have already spoken of the many voices that are in the world, and of the thieves and robbers, which the porter is to guard against. And we know that before a person is saved, there are many obstacles that serve to distract or hinder us from accepting the Word into our hearts and in turn, giving our all to Jesus. But remember also that after salvation the sheep go in and out, following the Shepherd to pasture and rest. Our enemy, Satan, doesn't stop trying to steal the Word from our hearts after we're saved. He works from the outside but also from inside the fold.
Acts 20:28-31 Take therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch and remember that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
HOW COULD THIS HAPPEN?
Yet Paul said that he knew it would happen. It was such an important issue that Paul had warned them night and day for three years, even with tears! If it was so important to Paul, should it not be important to us also? It must be! He surely did not warn them so long and with such fervency, just to have it forgotten!
Do you think that the sheep could be easily drawn away from their Shepherd if they had a constant and close relationship with him, and were communing with him daily, listening to his voice?
When young lambs listen to pastors who preach some truth but contaminate it with worldly attitudes, to make it easier to accept, without being in obvious opposition to worldly views, then this can happen. Or when pastors mix the Word with personal interpretations, and personal opinions, based only on carnal thinking, or even false teaching, until the Shepherd no longer speaks through it, the sheep will not be certain of his voice. The Holy Spirit is not going to anoint the Word presented falsely, so in a sense, the door will be shut. The sheep are then left with a written letter which kills, and no Spirit of God to give it life. (2 Cor. 3:60
Satan is very cunning in the strategies he uses against the kingdom of God. He doesn't always approach the sheep showing his true face or his true purpose. (see Gen. 3:1) Rather, he changes his true appearance to, not only be one of the sheep, but even to be a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, who has come to illuminate the Word of God to his people.
2Cor. 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
DEAR ONE, WHAT DO THE SCRIPTURES SAY?
FALSE WHAT?
DECEITFUL WHAT?
These people present themselves as disciples of Christ! Satan comes pretending to be an angel of light. The Strong's Concordance gives the meaning for 'angel' here, as, “a messenger; esp. an “angel”; by impl. a pastor: ...”
So they come posing as messengers of light. Who is the true light, but Jesus himself? They come as messengers of Jesus! Even as pastors!
Matt. 7:15+16 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Dear child of God, not every man who carries a minister's license, wears a robe or a backwards collar, or even holds the position of pastor, is a true man of God. We live in a world of deceivers. The word 'transforming' in 2 Cor. 11:13, in the Greek is, metaschematizp, met-aksh-ay-mat-id'-zo; to transfigure or disguise; fig. to apply (by accommodation): transfer, transform (self); to change. (Strong's)
Some Christians worry and disapprove of what messages are being given to children through the media, and rightly so. Yet while teenage mutant turtles have played on television, how many adults listened to evil mutant ministers from the pulpit, whose outward appearance was of sweetness and concern? Ministers who seem to carry a message of righteousness and appear to shine the 'light' on God's Word, but inwardly their goal is destruction of God's flock. This may sound a little far fetched, but if Paul warned the disciples might and day, for three years of just such happenings, then it must be a reality.
Do you think the Word they present is truly anointed by the Spirit of God, when given a false meaning, or does God shut the door and walk away?
Some men hold positions of pastors, but are only hirelings working for money. Some are impostures posing as something they are not. Some are men truly called of God, but who are failing to guard the Word as they ought, desiring approval and praise of men over that of God. Some are true pastors doing the best they know, to present the Word in truth and purity. The Chief Shepherd is going to come suddenly one day. And one day he will separate the sheep from those goats who have moved into the sheep fold and mixed with the sheep. Then he will close the door and it will be too late for many.
Now, dear child of God, please do not be frightened by all this, but turn to God with your whole heart and learn to know your master's voice well. God will lead you. But remember, we must do more than seek, we must also strive, or labor fervently. As we saw in the meaning of the word 'strive', we must fight. We have an enemy to contend with. But we can win, if we put the battle into God's hands.
The word 'seek' in Luke 13:24, where Jesus says that many will seek to enter in, is, in the Greek, zeto, dzay-teh'-o; “to seek (lit. or fig.); spec. (by Heb.) to worship (God), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life): - be (go) about, desire, endeavor, enquire (for), require, (x will) seek, (after, for, means).” (Strong's)
You can do all sorts of forms of worship; sing, dance and shout. You can ask all sorts of questions, make all sorts of inquiries, research and investigations, as you try to enter in to the body of Christ. But if that is what your seeking involves, it will not be enough. You must submit to God totally. And be prepared to do battle in the strength of the one who has defeated Satan at Calvary, so that you will not be one of those to whom the Lord will say – Luke 13:25 “ ... I know you not whence ye are:.”, but will, rather, be one to whom he will say -
Matt. 25:34 “ ... Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:” -
Because you knew your master's voice and obeyed it.
Matt. 25:31+32 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
32 And before him shall be gathered all nations; and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
Although we live in a time when the words which Jesus spoke to the scribes and Pharisees, could be said of many in the church world, it does not have to be true of you and I. Jesus said -
Matt. 15:8+9 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips: but their heart is far from me.
9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
If you are now sitting under a pastor where you are unable to clearly distinguish the voice of God, you may need to make a change. But you can rest assured that God does want to speak to you through his Word, by his Spirit, and to have a personal relationship with you. Surrender your all to him, then begin to read the Word and ask him for understanding. He is willing to guide you into all truth.
Each man or woman who holds the position of pastor, must answer to God for what they do in relationship to the Word and God's sheep. If a pastor is serving God's little ones faithfully, carefully and according to God's Word, God is with him and will bless him. This man is a blessing to the church and a true servant. As such he should be honored, loved and appreciated as a gift from God, though he does not seek honor from men. Such a man is not too easy to come by and should never be taken for granted. Those who he serves should love him and look to his needs, to supply those needs as God leads and gives the ability.
Never fear, dear pastor, God is always faithful and will see to it you are cared for, if you trust him. Remember what Peter told the elders in 1 Peter. -
1 Peter 5:5-9 ... God resisteth the proud, and giveth 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 care upon him; for he careth for you.
8 Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking who he may devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
Pastor you are not alone in the afflictions you go through. The Greek word for 'afflictions' is pathema, path'-ay-mah; “something undergone, that is, hardship or pain; subj. an emotion or influence:- ...”
All the brotherhood in Christ must deal with these things. So remain humble, cast all your care on Jesus, and he will always care for you. Just see what he will do for the servant who trusts him as Abraham did. Never place your trust in the obedience of other men, for your life's support, for God will keep his Word to you, when you trust and obey, even if others should rebel and forsake you.
Rejoice! Be at peace! Let God be your portion and you will have nothing to fear! For the child of God there is peace even in the valley and provision even in the face of enemies!
Ps. 24:1 The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
Ps. 23:5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou annointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Go with me now and let us see what instructions and/or guidelines are given in the New Testament concerning tithing and how ministers of the gospel are to be supported. God does have a plan of action, and it is the best!
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